Need Some Co-angler Advise

[bluffboy]

I am interested in fishing a circuit next year as a co-angler. I have fished the BFL but thinking of fishing either Central or Heartland and would appreciate some opinions.

However, what I am really seeking feedback on is co-angler etiquette in regards to helping with gas money. In the past I have given my pros 30-40 dollars at the end of the day regardless of how our day went. The problem with this has been when I have had a good day and my pro has not I have had a few guys act put off that I did not give them more. Then I started giving the pro the money first thing before take off. The problem with this has been that take off morning is crazy enough and some guys seem as though petty cash is the last thing they want to miss with.

What is the proper etiquette and amount.

Thanks

[doroger]

I am interested in fishing a circuit next year as a co-angler. I have fished the BFL but thinking of fishing either Central or Heartland and would appreciate some opinions.

However, what I am really seeking feedback on is co-angler etiquette in regards to helping with gas money. In the past I have given my pros 30-40 dollars at the end of the day regardless of how our day went. The problem with this has been when I have had a good day and my pro has not I have had a few guys act put off that I did not give them more. Then I started giving the pro the money first thing before take off. The problem with this has been that take off morning is crazy enough and some guys seem as though petty cash is the last thing they want to miss with.

What is the proper etiquette and amount.

Thanks

Bluffboy:

I have fished as a Co for the last three years in the Heartland series. Heartland pairs Co's & Pro's at the meeting following the Team Tournament. I let the price of fuel and cost be my guide. I never give less than $30, and when gas was high, I gave $50. Many times my pro has said that I offered too much. I counter this by telling them to have dinner on me, or take your kids and family fishing on me. If you take care of this issue the night before, both of you can enjoy just going fishing!!!! I can say I have not had a bad draw as far as the Pro's go. Give what you think is fair and learn as much as possible on the water!!

doroger

[denjac]

I would think $30 - $50. is enough. All depends on how far you run and most likely to his fish. Some guys are differant though, ask em up front before you take off.

[focused fishing]

Hey Bluffboy,

$30 - $50 is plenty, it should vary depending on gas prices. Right now $30 is enough. I've fished on the front deck for years and always appreciate it when the co-angler offers gas money either at the meeting or at the start of the day. If they don't offer I never asked. Alot of times I wouldn't take any money of we didn't make a long run, but everyone is different and in a different situation. You'll always be safe to offer before the tournament in my mind.

Hope to see you at some Central Pro Am's next year.

EP

[techo]

I fished the AM side last year I think. I was paired with some good guys. I paid about the same as the guys said, but I wouldn't pay the night before. You never know if something comes up and either you or your Pro can't make it in the morning for some reason. I always paid right away in the morning and thanked them for putting up with me ahead of time.

You probably already know about slimming down your tackle box and only bringing three or four rods. Hope you get Charlie....I hear he brings an extra sandwich for his co-anglers. He is a legend that sort of puts things into perspective.

[Fat Boy]

I will agree with Eric on this matter right now $30. is enough but when gas was higher it should be a little more. If the co don't offer I don't ask but at the same time we all work for our money . If someone offers me $10 after a 50 mile day well maybe thats all they have to offer I still got to go fishing. I have fished both and both are great events, with great guys in both front and back.

[bluffboy]

Thanks for all the replies and all the great advice. I can't tell you how much I enjoy this forum and how much I respect the wisdom of the members who post here.

See you on the water.

[Donna G]

I never offer less than $40 and usually do $40-50. I do watch the gas prices. Since we have a boat and hubby competes on the pro side I know how much I'm getting for my small contribution. The pro has to find the fish, take us to the fish and bring us back. He probably practiced one or more days to find our fish, so tournament day is not the only gas he's burned. I don't base it on whether they are a good guy, but I have been known to throw in a 'tip' if I catch 'em. Some pros won't take the money at all and some won't take the full amount but I always offer.

There's a good article (if I do say so myself-I wrote it lol) coming out in the next issue of the CPAA Fishin' Magazine called "Golden Rule Precious Tool for Co-Angler" and it concerns co-angler etiquette.

Donna G