Being a Better Saltwater Fishing Partner
Being a Better Saltwater Fishing Partner
When sharing a skiff, experienced anglers know that even when they are not up on the casting platform they are still part of the team. You may be taking a break from “fishing”, but it’s not time to zone-out and ignore what’s going on.

Here are a few suggestions on how to be a good fishing partner when fishing from a boat on the flats. Next time you are out fishing saltwater with a friend try these tips with the goal of making yourself a better fishing partner.
  1. Try to help your partner when you are not fishing. For example, watch his/her line for tangles and knots, make sure the line/leader does not catch on a mangrove or hang up in the skiff. If your partner has a fish on, watch the line so it gets on the reel cleanly.
  2. Pinch your barbs. Pinching your barbs isn’t only for the benefit of the fish, it’s also for the health and safety of your partner and guide.
  3. Establish when you will switch off. Decide if it’s every 20 minutes, 30 minutes or after each hook up or fish landed. Whatever you mutually decide, stick with it. Don’t hog the deck and push the rules. If you have landed five fish and your partner hasn’t landed a fish, it is okay to bend the rules a bit and give them an extra chance to get a hero shot.
  4. When you step off the casting deck, put your rod away. If you need to change your fly or tippet do it, then put your rod away. Do not leave your rod sticking up or leaning out over the water. If your partner hooks it with a backcast or steps on it while they have a fish on, that is on you.
  5. Try to be quiet when you are not up. If you need a drink from the cooler or want to mess with your gear, do what you need to do when you first step down from the deck, then try to be still. Don’t bang the cooler lid, dig in the ice or constantly zip and unzip zippers. If fish can feel your fly line hitting the water or hull slap, they can certainly hear you moving around in the boat. Notice how quietly the guide is poling, he is doing this for a reason.
  6. Be ready to take pictures! Your partner will certainly appreciate the awesome grip and grin pictures that you are going to take. However, keep in mind that some of the best photos are of your partner up on the casting platform, ready for action, with the amazing views in front of them or of the epic fight they had with the fish you watched them bring in. Also, don't forget to share those pictures with your friend after you get back home!
Most importantly, have fun, cheer each other on, make memories and enjoy your time together On The Water!

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