FISHING FROM ANOTHER PERSPECTIVE
 - a mates point of view

By : Joseph A. Spiegel

  Countless articles have been written in connection with fishing and in almost all cases they were written by professional writers or commercial fisherman and concentrated on specific techniques, tackle or distinctive species. To be somewhat unique, this writing is intended to present to you the typical reader and user of commercial charter boat services a mates point of view.

Perception
  There is a general conviction that a mate is a non-event individual with a basic job to do like bait hooks, remove fish, clean fish and tidy up the mess a charter party made and take abuse for mistakes that are not necessarily theirs. Well, all of this is true, however, there is a lot more to a good mates responsibilities. Even if you are one of the most capable fisherman, never underestimate the value of a mate and the fact he is a major factor in the ultimate success or failure of your charter. Simply stated, the mate plays a critical roll and may provide the edge you need to catch buba, enjoy yourself and have a safe charter.

What to expect
  First of all, the mate should be at the boat when you arrive. In almost all cases, some pre-trip preparations are required, and a first class mate will have accomplished them before your arrival. Upon you arrival, the mate should greet you and offer assistance with your gear and help you on the boat. The boat itself should be reasonably clean and devoid of clutter. If you bring bulky gear and an ice box for example, the mate should strategically locate them in an appropriate out of the way safe place. If you bring your own rod, the mate will probably place it to the side until it is time to properly rig it. After settling down and leaving the dock, the mate will usually bring out the fishing equipment or assist you in properly rigging the rod you brought. In most cases, equipment will be provided for you.

  Some important duties of the mate are to; ensure that you hook up is consistent to what is currently being used, check the condition of the line, verify that the drag is set properly, ensure that the hooks are in good condition and if using bait he will normally bait you hooks for the first time. Recognize, that some variations will occur as a result of the type of fishing and the number of people being serviced. A good mate will offer suggestions if you are not catching fish, assist those on the party who need it the most and of unparalleled importance be there if possible when you need help without being asked. A superior mate will possess a positive attitude and show genuine concern. Look for the number of quality services provided and you will probably be surprised at what you take for granted.

Consequences
  How would you feel if you lost the fish of a lifetime as a result of an improperly tied knot, bad line or if the flies had a smorgasbord on you as a result of a filthy boat to mention a few possibilities. The efforts of the mate can make the difference between a successful charter or a sad experience. Frankly, on behalf of all mates, there are a lot more responsibilities than one may initially perceive. A mates career depends on their ability to accommodate their clients and of paramount importance the captain. As for knowledge and assistance, the mate is a seldom used and unappreciated resource. Most mates want you to have a good time and catch fish, so don't hesitate to ask them questions or promote a conversation. Believe me, the mate is abreast of the current techniques and methods which can be to your advantage.

Your Responsibilities
You have responsibilities also and consideration is probably the most important. Treat the boat and equipment as if it was your own. The mate has a job to do so please be considerate and move out of his way as he completes it. If there are several fish on at a time, work with the mate. If you have a large fish on, follow it around the boat, hopefully, your cohorts will show consideration and move out of your way, thereby, reducing the possibility of tangles, accidents, lost fish or a disruption to fishing. When multiple fish are on, the closest fish should take priority. Take your time, there are other fish out there and with several fish on things can get hectic, people get excited and accidents can happen. Yes, the mate is concerned with you safety, generally has things under control and has established priorities, so be patient and cooperative. If you are not using your rod, store it in a safe out of the way place and in most cases the mate will do it if you don't. Safety should always come first and I think that you will agree, that it's better to loose a fish than an eye, cut someone or have a hook embedded in yourself or a friend. Although seldom realized or appreciated, your personal safety and well being is a primary responsibility of the mate. Should an emergency occur, in most cases the mate is the first one to initiate appropriate action. In summary, be considerate of others and use common sense. Sounds a little corny, well be a mate for a while and you will see it all.

The Mate
  Mates are probably average citizens trying to make a living. Most mates are intimidated by the clients and the captain, therefore, recognize this situation and initiate a conversation with him if it's your first trip. Attempt to create an atmosphere of openness, informality and cohesion. Believe me, it will pay dividends. Offer the mate a soda, snack or sandwich, and you will get far more back than your investment. Once a mate is accustom to you he will be comfortable when offering suggestions, providing support and contributing to your enjoyment.

Compensation
  If you think a mate is only working for wages paid by the captain, forget it. I challenge you to ask the captain what he pays his mate the next time you book a charter. Once you find out, you will understand why almost every charter boat has a sign that the mate works for tips. I would wager that you give a waitress more of a tip than you give the mate and the mate supports your pleasure in the worst of circumstances and adverse conditions. Working as a mate is hard work and requires one to be constantly alert. I would bet most patrons don't work as hard and make as many decisions in their particular occupation on most typical days. Imagine! if your group gives the mate a $30.00 tip for a 9 hour trip, that equates to $3.33 per hour. Therefore, when considering a tip, evaluate the mates efforts and support over the entire trip and tip him accordingly.

Conclusion
  There is no excuse for a second class mate. If you are not satisfied with your mate tell the captain, however, if you are pleased with your mate and the support he provided tell the mate in the presence of the captain. Believe me, if you book another trip after complementing the mate your service will be excellent. Fishing from a charter boat can be relaxing, rewarding and just plain fun. So the next time you book a charter consider the mate and his contributions to your adventure.

TOP