DocPhil wrote:
Ja I have an idea the reality is far removed from the dream.
A few charters around here went under after less than a year.
I've been out with a few of the old ones, wouldn't say they are very successful and it's incredibly hard work with no time off when the season is on.
And dealing with people is never easy.
Nice to dream though..
Lot of good inputs.
Same as all of us who do any type of fishing guiding.
1. SA citizens always believe they can rather do it on their own and are loathe to pay for your services.
2. There is a reason all run of the mill charters have shoddy tackle and gear on board with well used Kendal Round hooks on their reels
3. Key point made here is that in season you are busy 100% of the time. Problem is that due to weather and water conditions you are only able to use, maybe 70% of the season.
The rest of the year isn't season and you're largely limited to working weekends only, if the water is good.
Your crew needs to be paid if you are fishing or not as they need an income.
Get a commercial license and fish commercial when not doing charters, consider then that when you charter you are taking money/income from the crew
4. Having a full time employment will allow you subsidise the charter business and even put a skipper on retainer who can run your charter when you are working.
My opinion is that at best running a charter affords you more time on the water and pays for your non charter fishing trips.
It'll never provide income to buy the boat and equipemtn nor provide a decent income to run a household and put the kids through school.
But that's just my opinion.
