Captains license....... (school, live, ferry)

[laxmax]

Startin to look into getting captains license..........I have experience on the water but am looking to someday to have my own fishing charter buisness maybe 5 6 years from now....... Im looking to learn from the beginning for i know i lack a lot of experience when it comes to boating in all aspects. So im looking for a course that is thourough and doesnt cut corners..... I would love a lot of hands on learning. Does anyone have any suggestions ...Whether courses or just learning material for all aspects of boating.

[superfly10]

most of the courses you'll see promising to get you your captain's license work toward helping you pass the test, that's all. The test is a written test. As for your time on the water, you'll need to prove it by either getting another captain with a charter business or ferry operation etc to sign an affidavit testifying as to your time on the water, or you can sign one yourself if you own the boat. You'll need 360 documented days on the water before you can get your OUPV or 6 pack license - which will let you take 6 passengers for hire on your boat.

That said, true experience is about much more than the numbers. You need lots of real world, boat handling experience, in different conditions. Not to sound dramatic, but you'll have people's lives in your hands. Lots of little mistakes can be made on the water with big consequences.

then there's the fishing. You have to get it REALLY dialed in. Are you looking to do light tackle fishing, or trolling etc? Two different markets and very different customers. Where are you looking to launch out of?

I started a charter business 12 years ago... my day job gets in the way these days, so it's really tough to keep a regular schedule so I don't do it much. I really liked doing it, but it's a lot of work.

You need to really dial in your boat handling before. I've seen a few bad things happen out there.

Try a 'seamanship" school before a "captain's school." They might give actual boat handling tips.

[laxmax]

Thank u for advice.....Im very realistic when i talk about a charter buisness.... Im retired and am in no rush for the buisness end. Ive had my own boaT NOW FOR 4 YEARS...18ft privateer bay boat. know i need to know i need a lot more experience before i ever have people paying me for services. I figure i can get into the buisness maybe 5 to 8 years from now when im a lot more schooled. I know the huge responsability with peoples lives....im a very cautious person and i better know what im doing. I know i havent even scratched the surface but im looking down road. The seamanship school looks interesting and i appreciate all your info. I really would love to get on a charter guys boat and work as a mate. Im suddenly retired the past year and have a passion for boating and fishing so im really going to go for this. I just need experience and you cant teach that. Im young so i have that on my side. Any more info would be great. thanks again!!