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Lake Erie Charter Captain Dave Adams of D & D Charters answers questions and provides tips and insights into fishing the region.
If you would like to Ask the Captain a question, please click HERE.
March 8, 2004
The basics of becoming a charter boat first mate
Bob Asks:
Capt. Dave -
I live in Ashtabula, Ohio. My dad owns a 28 ft. Carver Mariner and although it isn't exactly built for fishing, we have managed to rig it in such a way that some serious fishing can be done. We have been fishing together every summer since I was 10. I am now 16. But with my dad`s work schedule, we usually only get out one day a week.
This summer, I was hoping I might be able to spend the other six on the lake as well, as a charter captain's first mate. But I'm not exactly sure what I need to do. It is to my understanding that I need to enter a random drug testing program. Do you know more about this, and how to be a part of it?
Also, what else might I need to be legal as a first mate as well as maybe catch the eye of a charter captain looking for a mate. In other words, what would be the basic steps to becoming a charter mate? Any info will help me.
Thanks,
Bob
Captain Dave's Response:
Hello Bob,
The first mate is the most overlooked position in the charter industry, both in safety and importance. The time you spend working on a charter boat will provide an invaluable learning experience. You will learn more about boating, safety, weather, and fishing in one summer than in 10 years of weekend angling. But it is hard work.
On many boats, the day begins before sunrise, often before the captain arrives. Equipment is rigged, mechanical and safety functions of the boat are checked, seats are cleaned and dried, and coolers are filled with ice. When the clients arrive, you have already worked for at least an hour.
Once under way and while fishing - a good first mate is responsible for bait selection and presentation - you must deal with fickle fish and unpredictable weather. If your day is successful and you have been pleasant company to your clients, you will receive a tip. Tips range from $25 to as high as $150.
Finally, just when you think your day over, the second part of your job begins. Fish are cleaned, the boat refueled and scrubbed, and equipment checked. 10 or 12 hours from the time your day began, your job is done, and the captain will pay you. What is the average pay for a first mate? It's anywhere from $50 to $100 a day, most often, though, it's the lower amount.
You will learn and be paid for learning. Some days are extremely frustrating; most are fun, and all are rewarding. So, how do you get started?
First, check local state laws. Some states require at least a boating safety certificate or guide license. Currently, the United States Coast Guard does not require a license for the first mate on small charter boats (under six passengers), even though it is available.
If, however, your final goal is to get a captain's license, your time on the water does count as sea time.
Whenever you decide to take your captain's test, you must have 360 days of "sea time" and 90 of those days must be on the Great Lakes. According to the Coast Guard, your time on the water can be counted beginning at the age of 15. So, keep track of the days you work as well as the boat name and registration number of the vessel that employs you.
Enrollment in random drug testing is the responsibly of the captain. The charter boat is a business and the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) specifies the marine employer enroll all employees in a random drug testing program. When you ask a captain for a job as a first mate, offer to pay for the enrollment. The fee is normally around $60.
Also, the safety of your clients is the responsibility of the captain and you. For that reason, and although it is not required, I would recommend that you take classes in first aid and CPR. Then, on your interview, let the captain know that you have taken the classes and bring your cards with you.
To find work, start by posting on a few Internet discussion boards that you are available as a first mate. Or just call a few captains and ask if you can help them this summer. Another idea might be is for you to contact local marinas and bait shops, and then let the owners know that you are looking for work.
You will enjoy every moment on the water because Lake Erie is a special place and the hard work is worth the rewards.
Good Fishing,
Capt. Dave Adams
Dave Adams is an author and professional charter captain who operates D & D Charters on the Pennsylvania waters of Lake Erie.
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