WEEKEND & HOLIDAY POLICY
A variety of circumstances have forced me to institute a weekend and holiday fishing policy. I hope that everyone will understand my intent, which is outlined below.
First, it is a zoo out there on the weekends, folks. If you're serious about trying to catch some fish, you don't want to be competing with all the wally weekenders! There's boats and jet skis running all over the place, and many of them don't have any manners, or at least don't have a clue, or have neither. And many will be fishing anywhere they've ever seen a guide boat fish.
Second, the ramp is an even bigger fiasco, especially at quitting time. Most of the occasional users don't have a clue about ramp ettiquette, and block up the docks, ramps, and parking. Many come in drunk as a skunk, and are ready to fight when you try to explain how the ramp is supposed to be used. Fighting the weekend crowds at the ramp is a PITA!
Third, five days of guiding per week is enough. The hotter the weather gets, the harder it is to keep your body hydrated. I'm usually working hard for my customers, and have a hard time taking on enough fluids. The body has to have time to replentish and renew itself, at least at my age now, mine does. The last thing I want to do with my guiding career is burn out! Man can not fish seven days a week all the time!
Fourth, my guiding career keeps me away from my wife and family for sometimes weeks at a time. That's not a good thing. I'd hate to go home and find I've been replaced by a newer model. I need to spend weekends with my family.
Fifth, there has to be some time to take care of boat maintenance, buying supplies, tackle maintenance, etc. There's sure no time for it during the week, but it has to be done. Also, I have to have time to write those fishing reports that so many of you love. There's just no time when you're on the water every day.
So, if you've read this far, and you still just have to fish on the weekend, I charge a time and a half rate for Saturday and Sunday, and a double time rate on holiday weekend days and official holidays if they fall on a week day. That means that currently a 6 hour trip for up to three anglers would be $638 on a weekend day, and $850 on a holiday.
I would like to emphasize that this is NOT intended to increase revenues, rather to discourage your fishing on the weekends. But, if you're going to force me to be out there, this will definitely help ease my frustrations.
As an alternative, I will be more than happy to find you a guide that will (at least till this catches on) fish you for the regular rate.
Your understanding is appreciated!
Capt. Butch
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LOCAL DESTINATIONS!