Written By - CuradoKev 1 - 05/14/2007
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COMMUNICATE A lot of problems can be ironed out with a question. Like after the boater misses a fish "Do you mind if I throw in there?" I've offered my baits up first thing in the morning; by saying "If you need anything just ask." This lets the boater know that you are willing to exchange baits. Then if the boater kicks your butt, the boater may be more willing to lend you their baits :) When in doubt about a cast or anything else JUST ASK!!!

Be on Time During the pairings meeting, give the boater your cell phone number, lodging information and ask the boater what techniques they've been using. I have contact cards listing my name, email and cell phone number to give the boater. On tournament morning, arrive ten minutes earlier than what the boater said. Sometimes I'll even call them when I get there to get an idea how long they'll be. Personally, I'm never relaxed until we are both sitting in the boat after boat check. After boat check is a great time to discuss some of things presented below.

Gas Money - Offer gas money even if the boater is a jerk, it's just what you do. Twenty dollars is an old rule that should be abandoned. I start with forty dollars in small bills, a twenty, ten and two fives. This allows the boater to give money back to you without having to make change. In the BFL Michigan Division, the runs are long so forty dollars is a starting point but I bring fifty dollars. Some pros give it all back and some give ten dollars back. The amazing thing is the co-anglers today that still offer nothing. It just boggles my mind.

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