I received a concern from one of our captains relating to "part time guides". I think his concern was more personal but it does raise some good questions so I figured I'd air them out here, for those who are concerned.

Our mission, as a web site, is to direct our visitors to the best fishing captains in the area. Guides with a proven reputation of getting their clients on the fish. To verify their reputations we require three references. They can be satisfied clients, captains that are already included on the list, local fishing publications, local internet fishing forums, etc. We personally verify these references before a captain is approved.

In this process we have relied heavily on the recommendations of captains who have already been approved. Our thinking is that they would best know the captains reputation in the industry, they have earned our trust and we are actively promoting their sites and services.

We know, that most captains are required to supplement their income from fishing with other responsibilities. It would be great if all of our outstanding captains could support their families and live well just from their fishing incomes but for most, this is not the case. Let's face it, with the record red tide bloom a couple of years ago, this years shaky economy, decreased tourism and increased gas prices it can be a tough market.

Whether it be partnering with a local tackle shop, boating supply store, day trading, building web sites, etc. we've never seen it as a conflict of interest nor has it been a concern about the value of service they can provide. What matters to us, is the captains local reputation (are they among the best in their area) and when one of our visitors books a trip with them... are they satisfied?

Having said that though... we have no interest in being a site that represents "part time guides" but this is how we define it. The captains primary business interest should be their fishing charters and we would expect that they be available for charter at the customers request (assuming that they're not already booked). Secondly, we would expect that the captains are on the water on average of at least three days a week weather permitting. Certainly it is important to be "out there" regularly to know personally where the best fishing is. 

Hopefully this will put the issue to rest but please feel free to post any comments, suggestions or questions below. We have no vested interest in promoting one captain over another, our only interest is in assuring our visitors that they are being presented with the best in the bay.

On that note, however, we would be very disappointed if captains did not take the time to let us know if there was someone listed that would reflect poorly on our site. The reliability of our listings is the foundation of our value to visitors and our reputation is conferred to everyone listed so we all have a vested interest in maintaining high standards.

If concerns are raised under no circumstances would we reveal the captains name and we will follow up personally on any/all concerns raised by captains, visitors and unhappy clients.

Thanks for your time and consideration.

Scott/TBC 

I am not listed on your site as one of the guides you promote so this does not apply to me but I would like to make a few comments.

At this point in time I dont consider my self a full time guide even though I try my best to spend three or more days a week on the water.

I have spent the last 11/2 to 2 yrs takeing folks out on what I called unpaid fishing charters. Some folks I knew and some I didnt. Some are accomplised fishermen and some had only fished occasionally in there lives.I also spent time mating for a couple of well known guides from the area.

I did this so I could hone my skills at what it takes to please clients of all types.In a round about way I have been full time guideing for a couple of years. I just didnt get paid for it.

Now that I have my ticket and have invested the time and money to get it there are no more unpaid charters unless I feel they will benifit me and my business in some way.Thats just the way it has to be. There are some exceptions,like donating a trip to a worthy charity.

With that being said I still have my other business that at this time I can not afford to give up.Thats just a fact. I dont know anyone who could afford to step out and build a business with out some finacial backing.

My other business is my financial backing for my guide business.Thats just the way it is and has to be otherwise I could not afford to build my guide business.

With all that being said I hope that I havent stepped on and toe's in the guide community. If I have then tell me so.

Im not in this to cut rates and to put some extra cash in my pocket. I look at this business as something I have to build and Im not about to low ball in order to do it.I think thats what bothers the full timers about the part timers.That being said I dont blame them.

Thats about all I have to say. I just hope everyone understands where Im coming from.

Spyder, I appreciate your sentiments... thanks!

You're right on the money and sure are doing yours the right way. You guys are a special breed and you've proved that in the last year and a half. Hell, I take my kids and a friend or two of theirs and I'm wiped out in three hours.... and then it's only fun for me because they're my children.

Personally, I could never see myself as a charter captain but sure do appreciate those of you who are that love what you do!