From: Capt. Steve Knapp <smk1@cornell.edu>
Subject: Re: Fish Charters
X-Xxdate: Tue, 29 Sep 92 20: 06:16 GMT
Nntp-Posting-User: smk1@cornell.edu
Organization: Cornell University
X-Useragent: Nuntius v1.1.1d7
Date: Tue, 29 Sep 1992 19:00:24 GMT

In article <yzz-0t#@engin.umich.edu> Robert Drongowski,
Robert.Drongowski@cc.umich.edu writes:
>I am amazed that more people on the net have not expressed their opinions
>on this matter.  The definition of a successful charter trip in the
>Michigan Great Lakes Region is a limit for all people in the boat,
>including the Captain and any Deck Hands.  This goes for Steelhead,
>Perch, Walleye or whatever species one has chartered for.  In fact, most
>charters advertise by claiming how many "Limit Trips" they have made
>recently.  Also, I know it is common practice on Lake Erie to drag a
>'meat hook' on the downrigger ball. 
>This behavior affects all of our fishing eventually.  Charters typically
>go-out twice a day.  I think that to protect certain fisheries, charter
>fishing should be limited by more strict fish limits per fisherman.  On
>the other hand, environmental pressures such as zebra mussels, pollution,
>damming of rivers for hydroelectric power etc. also affect the fisheries.
> 
>BOB DRONGOWSKI--"ICE FISHING IS REALLY A MISNOMER, MOST OF THE TIME"  The
>Polish Fisherman

I too am amazed this topic has not generated more interest.  I share your
concern for the impact charter fishing has on the Great Lakes region.  I
am particularly familiar with  charter practices on Lake Ontario  and
Cayuga Lake.  The definition of a successful trip here is a safe trip
where one can enjoy the simple pleasures of being out on the water.  The
scenery surrounding Cayuga Lake is absolutely beautiful.  Catching fish
is just a bonus.

I agree that catching and keeping as many fish as is legally possible is
unhealthy and in some cases can adversely affect the sport fish
population.  However, I do not believe that this is the prevalent
attitude of most charter captains in THIS area.  The Lake Ontario Charter
Boat Association disapproves of the Captain's limit being included as a
factor in the catch and discourages the practice of "guaranteeing fish". 
Catch and release is what is encouraged.  As for advertising, I would
think that mentioning limit catches of fish would unduly set a very high
expectation for the client.  In these days, that expectation is difficult
to meet to say the least.

Fishing techniques vary from port to port.  On Cayuga Lake, Seth Green 
rigs and copper line run on the bottom are popular.  The so called meat
rig has also been employed by a rare few.  However, charter captains must
be concerned with the overall sporting experience on the water. 
Certainly if clients are not thrilled with the idea with using a certain
technique, its hard to imagine that a captain would employ such a rig. 
What is sporting will always be subjective.  But no self respecting
captain in this region with a reputation to preserve would consider 
bringing a fish to the net that the client did not play an important role.

No doubt, charter captains can positively influence the sport by
demonstrating wisdom when preparing a brochure or placing an ad in a
regional publication.  The role of local charter associations in these
matters is of great importance.  A suggestion or word of caution to a
group such as this could go a long way towards reinforcing the ethical
practice of guiding licensed anglers in an experience designed  to be
rewarding in  many ways other than filling the freezer.

Capt. Steve Knapp
Ithaca, NY
Newsgroups: rec.outdoors.fishing