High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Michael Radenheimer, Whiteman AFB, MO — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 15:50:57 GMT

It's not just the charter fishermen taking a hit to the wallet. Those of us who do regular fresh water tournaments have taken the hit as well.
When I first bought my 20 foot 225 HP bass boat, gas was $1.49 a gallon at the pump. The change is quite drastic in comparison and it leads to some serious changes in fishing styles.
"You don't need that big motor" is an argument that only people who don't tournament fish will try and start. Tournament fishing has a time limit. And just like these guys, you have to fish where the fish are biting, sometimes that's a very long drive away fromt the launch site. A 225HP motor can get you there at 70MPH. A 150HP can get you there at 50MPH. The difference? Precious minutes! You have to have lures in the water to catch fish - and that lure has to be in front of a fish that wants to eat it.
Some people don't make their living fishing touraments, but big tournaments have the same effect on the economy. It brings business to marinas and the surrounding community.
I have cut down on my tournament fishing becuase of the cost of fuel to tow and operate my boat. Nevermind the scouting time and just general leisure fishing too.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Alarkus — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 15:51:02 GMT

In the last paragraph,Leopold states," that the new engines are burning 40 to 50 percent less than we did..." Wouldn't this amke up for the rising fuel costs? In a way some of the ways that are now being used to conserve fuel should have been used all along. I feel for the famiies and crews and hope they coan continue to adapt to the rising costs of diesel.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Capt.Chuck, Morehead City,NC — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 16:01:25 GMT

Well, the phenomonen is only partially true, since very few of these captains interviewed actually own the boat that they are running. Some big-wig from another state and who makes his money in his real trade uses his charter boat as a tax deduction against that business...and most likely has his captain on that company payroll as well....the owner/operator in charter boats is the dying breed and already was headed the way of the dinosaur long before fuel went to $5+ per gallon..But in general, reasonable diesel prices could be a huge step in helping the overall ecconomy of the US, since our consumable goods are delivered by freight or rail.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

David Holmes, San Luis Obispo, Calif — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 16:03:10 GMT

Wait a second - let's do the numbers, taking the data embedded in the article.

Assume 125 gallons of diesel a day (mid-way between the 100 and 150 cited) and an increase in per gallon cost of $2 (from $3 to $5 per gallon over the last year as mentioned.)

That's an increase in average fuel cost of $250 (2 x 125), but we're told that the charter rates went from $900 to $1400, a $500 increase.

Shouldn;t the article have noted those numbers and then dug deeper for the other half of the total increase in charter fees. Did bait ice and maintenance also increase?

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

John Doe, Seattle Wash. — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 16:54:36 GMT

"Just feeding their families and paying the bills"? Isn't that what 95% of all americans are TRYING to do today? Sounds to me like they have been operating on a hefty margin and getting away with it. Now that the average Joe can't afford the luxury of a day on the water these poor guys are just gonna' have to suck it up and be grateful they can still feed the kids and pay the bills. Not all of us are so fortunate.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

D.N. Burlington,Vermont — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:02:30 GMT

The areas that I have fished in FL have been over fished anyway. Mostly out of Clearwater, but elsewhere oof the coast. Maybe the popilation of fish can have a chance to recover from over zealous fishing, taking more than you need, and the red tides of the last few years.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Mike Webb. PA — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:02:53 GMT

I try to take at least one offshore charter per year. This year I arranged for a guided fresh water trip at a conciderable savings over what an offshore trip would have cost. As the article stated an angeler is likley to get far less for his money as captains worry over fuel efficency instead of finding fish.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Kathy W, Waverly, FL — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:05:14 GMT

My husband and I have enjoyed fishing with Jeff on the "Genesis" out of Islamorada for many years with many great memories. I'd hate to see that disappear because the US can't figure out a way to "fix" this fuel problem. We also own a trucking company and completely understand just trying to survive. Good luck to all of us.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Sarg Gravert, Lima Peru — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:08:47 GMT

Unfortunately, the price of fuel has touched everyone. The charter boat guys have an especially tough problem. People are trimming down their expenditures for luxuries plus the cost of fuel.
We commercial guys are up against the same thing except we don't have tourists for customers. It's a tough pill to swallow running around on that ocean and come home empty, fuel cost the same whether you are empty or full.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Josh, Yakima, WA — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:20:00 GMT

Alarkus- Those new engines probably cost $20,000, so they will take a long time to pay off before they start saving this guy any money...

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Bob Thomas — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:20:40 GMT

I dont know why this is such a surprise. Sport's fishing has always been a "richman's" game. The average joe sixpack never could afford to charter one of these rigs and go marlin fishing at the drop of a hat. The usa has been spoilked. Take a look at Europe with there high fueled prices for years! Sports fishing there was for the wealthy. Only in america did we think everyone could be a millionaire and/or live like one. Hence the credit society and borrowing to keep up with the pretense we were all entitled to the lifestyle of the rich and famous! Hell, even airline travel was for the wealthy. Now the great unwashed with their yelling snotty kinds and "excessive" baggage and crap have made flying a nightmare! The game is up folks, get real with your miserable lives and resolve that the fun and games and easy life is over for the USA!

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Eric, Islamorada, FL — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:22:47 GMT

David, other costs include dock fees, maintenance, driving from the main land to the Keys every day, boat loan...

Capt Chuck, that depends. Some of the best captains in Islamorada own andoperate their own boats. They seem to be the best at staying busy even with the ever increasing cost of fuel.

Lastly, not all boats run on diesel. Some charter boats are smaller and run on gas outboards which get 2-4mpg vs the diesel boats that get gpm.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

BR , Chicago, IL — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:25:16 GMT

I would agree with D.N. that the areas have been overfished. The same holds true with many of the 'wild' areas of the U.S. that have been made accesible by our gas machines. Maybe the entire nation will have a chance to recover because of soaring fuel costs. Everyone will rethink their myriad of trips and be more judicious about where they go, how they get there, and how often they go.
Deep sea fishing is NOT a staple in anyone's life. Its a luxury, like Europe, lengthy driving vacations, and the like. Many of have made livings off pandering to these luxury niches....but everything comes to pass. I had a friend who made a fortune from repairing 8 - Track decks...no one mourned his loss of business when that trend moved on. The same can be said of all of these people being squeezed out of a nice existence bobbing about in the waves of the Gulf coast. You'll either find new ways to do old things or you will perish in that area and reemerge in a new one. ....and so goes life.....

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

John G, Vancouver, B.C — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:27:21 GMT

Wow, The US is in a sad state right now. Food, gas and housing and you are worried about sport fishing?
You should write about why the Big Three automakers are going bye, bye and govt borrowing money from China to pay the debt. Sport fishing??? Its like when the Roman empire was falling and the Senators complained that they could't see a descent kill in the Colasium any more. With fish declining world wide maybe these captains with Big boats should take up whale watching. jg

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Tim Porter — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:29:29 GMT

I have operated my own fresh water guide business since 1999 in East Tennessee. I only do it as a second job to supplement my income, not to "feed my family". I have only increased my rates by 20% over the last couple of years. Since 2006, I have gone from an average of 2 to 3 trips per week, to less than 3 per month. I have called some of my past clients and the feedback I have received is that the lack of interest is due to the economy and gas prices. People are choosing necessities over leisure.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Robert Alvarez Moreno Valley California — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:29:31 GMT

In California the boat owners are raising there prices, and charging fuel sure charges of up to 20.00
along with the hefty prices. I use to go every other week, now Im lucky to go once every other month.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

pirateman — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:30:16 GMT

Fuel is not getting any cheaper, wages are not going higher. I own a sail boat with a 27 h.p. diesel. Twenty gallons of fuel last me about two to three months of weekend sailing. Wind power is the future until hybrid power systems come on line. The days of the big sport fishers are goning , ging gone. Its a shame for the charter skippers.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Dominick Notariano, Ponchatoula, Louisiana — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:33:15 GMT

Start doing a little off shore drilling and you would have more oil, lowering the price of fuel not to mention rigs that hold fish you could tie off to. Just a thought from your neighbors in Louisiana...

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Todd, Atlanta GA — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:34:07 GMT

make biodiesel...If I were a charter captain I would get all those restaurants to allow me to dispose of their WVO for free....then you can make biodiesel for 80 cents a gallon!! BioPro 380 from utahdieselsupply.com can make 100 gallons every 48 hours.....so you get a 500 gallon storage tank and start making! if you are burning 150 gallons a day...that is a $600 per day savings to all those who need the fuel......quit whining and get busy solving your own problems!

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Karl the Kayaker, Halfmoon Bay, CA — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:35:26 GMT

Good, you charter boat captains deserve to pay higher prices and should continue to do so. 95% of you guys are the reason most areas are over fished. Furthermore to rest of you fisherman should think alittle bit more about the enviroment(not that a majority dont) and try kayaking or sailing to your favorite fishing spot or maybe doing some scuba or free dive fishing. Its alot more rewarding to the soul than relying on capt. ahab.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

G. Tucker, former resident of Key West — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:36:53 GMT

"We're just feeding our families and paying the bills" while enjoying the whole South Florida/Keys lifestyle doesn't seem so bad to me. I should be so lucky again.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

A. Rux, Montesano WA — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:42:10 GMT

FUel prices drive everything.. here in washington where I go fishing out of. In the last year the number of charter boats going out has been reduced by almost 60% and they dont charge the $1400 they talk about in the article. 2 Years ago it was about $125-$175 for a one day salmon trip per person, and every boat was full during the season. Now it is about $225-275, and with the regulations the state has now you see about 15 boats heading out instead of the 40+ that used to. the thing is fuel doesnt need to be this high see this article..

http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/gas-could-fall-2-if/story.aspx?guid={2673C102-68E0-41D9-9C9A-10EE2E723948}#comments

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Worky, Spring Branch, Texas — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:43:59 GMT

Sport fishing in the Florida Keys is only a shadow of what used to be great. Overfishing, loads of idiots from Miami on jet skis and inexperienced so called captains have all contributed to the decline. This is most obvious off Key West but holds true for all of the Keys.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Al, Milo, Maine — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:44:35 GMT

The pinch of the gas prices not only hurt the fishing in Florida but us who like to get a week-end up in Maine also. Actually more...Less of a group to pick from up here and alot less employment to be able to pay for such trips.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

John G, Vancouver, Canada — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:53:40 GMT

Spend $1400. a day floating around burning fuel to catch a fish that is slowly disappearing from this earth ?? Get a knife go to Costa Rica and stab some rare frogs...its free and you safe the gas. jg

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

bruce greenop marathon florida — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:56:37 GMT

i live in the keys and the price of bait,gas and food has all gone up,i switched to a yamaha 115hp four stroke outboard on my 24ft maco pleasure-fishing boat to save fuel.used to come home from work and the wife says go catch supper ,it now cheap to buy at the store.thinking of buying kayaks,lol

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Dick Wickel, McKinney, TX — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:56:42 GMT

I went striper fishing with two friends just last week, hired a guide, and paid the same price charged in subsequent years. I wondered how he could afford to do that given the jump in fuel prices, and so I asked.

The guide replied that bookings were better now than ever.

He speculated that was due to local folks staying closer to home for vacations now. Instead of those dollars going for airfare or gasoline, apparently many are enjoying closer to home attractions, and stretching their vacation dollars.

In any case, the guide said his bookings were fuller now than ever before, so it appears right now, he is able to off-set the higher gas price with increased bookings from local vacationing folks.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

4TYUUEIUKFH YU — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:29:20 GMT

I LOVE FISH! WHO ARE YOU

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Bill Blase — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:31:24 GMT

Amazes me the number of insensitive asses spewing their misguided opinions. We have very great problems to deal with and everyone, including kayakers, blow boaters and non-fisher people will be effected very badly as the economy continues to spiral into the toilet.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Kyle, North Palm Beach, FL. — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:32:36 GMT

Those new engines are gonna run anywhere from 40-60k each depending on the size of the boat. Often they are financed and yes that is another monthly payment. Also a lot of those guys down there do own their own boat so for someone to comment that it is a corporate expense for a big-wig and his company is not entirely true...

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Dave W. Paolos Verdes, CA — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:37:09 GMT

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Lee, Mooresville, NC — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:39:51 GMT

I don't understand the overfishing comments. I fished twice for sailfish with Capt. Eklund on Cloud Nine, and all sails were released. Only a very few kings were killed for eating.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Bob, Montrose Mi. — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:45:51 GMT

As far as the charter industry goes, I feel bad for anyone that is forced out of business because of something they have no control over. And for those that condemn these guys for making a living doing what they love to do. I say you are just jewalous because you can't do the same. I would give my eye teeth for a job I loved instead of the daily grind just to pay the bills. Bio diesel is a great idea, but when the restaurants get wise, they'll start charging for the oil & we'll be right back in the same boat we're in now. I don't go fishing or driving any where near as much as I used to because of fuel prices. This country made a huge mistake in the 70's & 80's when we were in a fuel crisis by not continuing to search for alternative energy sources. We stopped just because we thought we would never have to worry about not having enough or paying through the nose like Europe. I don't like the thought of more offshore drilling or drilling more in the Yukon or North slope, but that might be the only thing that will start the ball rolling back toward lower costs. Unless we do like Robin Williams said and tell the Arabs we'll give them $10.00 a barrel, take it or leave it. It would'nt take long for thier supplies to be more than thier storage facilities could hold and they'd be begging us to take it off thier hands.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

John Montoya, San Diego, CA — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:47:13 GMT

Growing up in San Diego, CA I have found it is more cost effective to go on a half day charter, than boat ownership. I will support our local charter's first. Everyone here is in the same boat, no pun intended. some charter;s offer a free trip for every 10 you purchase.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

TIO, MIAMI FLORIDA — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:48:06 GMT

Hey U.S.A. people want to solve your gas problems stop buying/driving/making those gas hogs!!!! Stop filling your garage with all those motorized toys!!!! Want to curtail your drug problem!!!! Stop using drugs and then maybe the government will put all that $$$$ to better use. You have had your cake and have been eating it too!!!! Now the plate is getting empty.!!!!! Blame your selves for a large part of your fuel/drug problems. You use then you loose!!!

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

John Montoya, San Diego, CA — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:50:52 GMT

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

"Wild Bill", Chula Vista, CA — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:57:34 GMT

I hear a lot of wining. Some points are valid, i.e., costs of a new engine; also consider fuel costs impact all manner of commerce and these costs are eventually passed on all along the line.

I enjoy deep sea fishing and try to do so at least 1 or 2 times a year. I have 2 charters set, 1 in Alaska next month and the other in Costa Rica for January. I keep in contact with these boat owner/operators (nobig conglomerates) and neither has suggested or hinted that increased costs are being added to our contract. It is important to them to stay in business and have return customers even if it means a loss or break even now. Regardless of the type of business, there are always some that fail for any number of reasons. I expect costs to rise for my future trips. I might even have to go less often.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

M Rutherford, orlando, Florida — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 03:45:48 GMT

These comments are a great cross section of different people wanting/talking about completely ideas about fishing.. I swear I stand in the middle of the flak as a private owner of a diesel hog (44ft at 38 gph) and basically fish for pleasure so my very faithful friends can help run the boat..I feel for the charter guys in a serious way...you are really having to slug it out b/c it was never easy...and I believe the fuel is the tip of the iceberg impact for the charter clients that are worried about a lot more bills tougher to pay before enjoying the luxury of what is probably one of them most beautiful yet expensive sports on the face of the planet.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Eugene, Anchorage, AK — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 04:11:41 GMT

So you do not feel sorry for the poor boat Captains? You better. Most jobs in the USA are now in the service sector. People will eat out less. They are cutting back on a lot of things. It effects a lot of people. If we still had good industrial jobs in the USA, then we would be better off. But those jobs are long gone. Now people need second jobs like being a boat Captain. The steel industry and other industries like it are gone. Boat Captains are like many people, they are a part of the major industry in the USAt, the service industry. We can thank the greedy rich and special interest groups for most of our problems which include oil and jobs. You want things fixed.... get rid of these special interest group that own are politicians.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Bob Bederman — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 04:32:20 GMT

David, the price change is over a 5 year period, and the cost of fuel change is over one year.....so you are not talking apples to apples. "please read carefully"

Engines are not 40-50% more fuel efficient..a diesel burns 1 gal for every 20 hp, whether it is a brand new common Rail , or a 1995 or newer diesel.

Charter and recreational boat do not dwindle fish stocks nearly as much as commercial fishing..especially tune/marlin and other highly migratory species.

Most people have no clue

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

john las vegas — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 05:37:26 GMT

pretty sad that i have to agree with john g from canada. america is going downhill big time and our people complain about fishing? i love to fish and went off of long beach last week. what was said about our auto makers should startle some of us. the next time you think buying that nissan or honda consider this. the only thing that keeps america superior is that we have an industrial base. if you want to keep fishing and living like an american start to buy american.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

jason, NY NY — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 05:49:39 GMT

Perhaps I'm missing something here. Since when are we owed fuel at a particular price? We aren't owed cheap gas any more then I'm owed cheap rent and cheap high-speed internet. If the price of something goes up, it gets used less. If you can't pass the increase on to your consumers, there's no market for it. OH well, that's life.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Runningwolf sutherlin,oregon — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 06:21:11 GMT

I work for a boat manufacture, a big one. we have had two months of shut downs and over 100+ eople laid off. it is not just fishermen, It (the cost of gas) is hurting all of the boat people and thier families my town is only made up of 30,000 people our plant had 300+ when I started now it is down to the bare bones.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Carmelo Vella Malta Europe Med — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 06:43:49 GMT

Fishing like game or bird hunting has become technology orientated where the game is at a huge disadvantage. We have overfished our seas using high speed boats and as a bonus we polute the seas with diesel or gas. Our high speed have driven the fish further from our shores. We should use wind power and take it easy; trolling from a sailing boat is exiting, tranquil and does not hurt tour pocket.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Mike Barber, Seattle, WA — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 07:06:58 GMT

I just got back from a salmon charter off La Push, WA. This guy isn't getting rich off anybody. His money comes from the crabbing season & chartering (his own boat) is a way to make money during the summer months. The local fish warden (not sure of actual title) was waiting at the docks and she mentioned that Westport (the big salmon port) was down 30-50% on charters this summer. That not only affects the captains, but the restaurants, the hotels, the everybody in those towns and many places in between--especially in WA where these towns are 4 hours from Seattle. My roundtrip gas bill was $75+. No wonder Westport is getting slaughtered this summer. It's not just the skippers, it's the industry. My heart goes out to the waitress, the busboy, and the maid who depend on those tourist dollars.

Sure glad we put a failed oil man in the whitehouse to solve all our energy problems.

Yes, that was sarcasm.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

mlt — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 09:05:37 GMT

In response to Bob Thomas,

No, you don't need to be rich to charter a boat! My husband and I have chartered boats out of San Diego for several years....we get about 30 guys from work to join us, and divide the cost evenly amongst us all. It makes for a great trip with friends! Takes us about 5 hours to drive to San Diego from where we live, then it's two nights out on the ocean for a great vacation!

We're going again in just a few more weeks. Guess we'll find out then if this trip is just as rewarding as those in the past!

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Jimm Fedorenchik — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 11:06:25 GMT

Wah Wah Wah, you get into a business and you take it anyway it comes. These guys were not crying when it was plush and wealthy! do not be crying because the other end of the stick is out of the water.Should have planned head for that day when business spurned by diposeable income runs out of GAS/DIESEL.Been there and done that. A true fisherman changes bait when things do not go as planned.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

David Powell, Ocean City, New Jersey — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:38:11 GMT

The engines may burn half the fuel but it costs four times as much per gallon. Do the math! It's hurting boating up and down the east coast.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Matt Destin, FL — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:54:09 GMT

I agree that the Keys have been beat to hell. I used to go every summer but now see no reason to pay the outrageous lodging, fuel, and related expenses. My vacation money stays local now.

However, people that blame charters and recreational fishing for the decline in fisheries are poorly informed. Check the allocation by species for charters and recreational versus commercial (for sale at the store, market, etc.) and then point your finger. Concerned about overfishing? Order the tilapia or catfish.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Sandy — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 13:39:57 GMT

David Holmes, you expect a journalist to crunch the numbers?

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Wiley Horn, Hopkinsville, KY — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:19:49 GMT

When I was a kid, my Granny could dig with a grubbing hoe, but she could not see the worms she dug up. I could see the worms but I was not big enough to handle that big grubbing hoe. Both of us loved to fish. No problem, she dug, and I picked the worms and put them in a tin can of dirt. Uncle Harvey would load us into his Hudson, stick a bundle of cane poles through a half open window and tie the loose ends to the back bumper, and off we went to Jackson's Lake, where adults could fish for $1 a day, kids free. Only a tiny fuzzy speck of Granny's vision remained, but with great concentration Granny managed to find her bobber in that spot. She said the very best fishing bobber was a whiskey bottle cork, slit with a razor blade to hold the line. Nobody caught more fish than Granny. We kept, dressed, fried and ate every bluegill that we caught for supper that night. You can't have that kind of fun on a diesel show-boat for $1400 a day!

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

K.Scholten — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:55:30 GMT

The only income we have is from commercial blue crab fishing, so we have no choice but to pay the high price of gas, although we did not see an increase per pound in the price of crabs , so to all who think it is just about playing think of all the commercial fishermen who are fighting not only high gasoline prices, but also the foreign crab meat,shrimp, etc that alot of restraunts serve which is not regulated by the FDA that you consume when eating at seafood restraunts that are putting us out of business day by day, please the next time you go out to eat seafood ask the restraunt if this is american seafood or foreign, because by law you have the right to know. The way we were able to save on gas was to buy a 140 Suzuki 4 stroke.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Jeff, Pittsburgh, Pa — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:11:55 GMT

The good news is that the fish are happy!!!

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Rick Miracle. Parkersburg, WV — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:17:29 GMT

I have some short term patches and long term solutions to this problem. In the short term those that can not manage the higher fuel bills, myself included, should go to sailboats which would also enhance the tourists' deep water experience. Also, make the trip an overnight excursion to help justify the higher prices. Both would also promote a more laid back atmosphere and allow more time to find the "Sweet Spot". You could even have a fish fry with the day's catch. This strategy would also spread the tourists to more charter companys. In the long term I, and I'm sure others have designs for hybrid or all electric boats. These would use combinations of solar cells and wind power with the power being used or stored in batteries. A crued method has been used for decades to power submarines except they used their engines to recharge the batteries. Fuel prices are only going to get higher as the supplies dwindle and the demand increases. If someone is trying any of these let me know how it is going.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

DAVE CARDENAS, ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:57:04 GMT

JUST BUY THE FISH AT THE LOCAL SUPERMARKET AND SAVE
YOURSELF $1400 OR SO.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

aaron fisher, avilla, in — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:32:07 GMT

I book a charter a couple of times a year off south west florida. The price has went from $750.00 a couple of years ago to $1250.00. The guy who is really getting hosed is not the captain, but the fisherman. Captains are now cruising out at 9 knots instead of 18 knots and in southwest florida you have to go out at least 25 miles to get to decent grouper fishing grounds. So you are basically paying double for half the "bottom time". The worth of your catch is about 5 times the cost per pound that you would pay at a seafood market. The only way to get your moneys worth is to go on extented trips of 3 to 4 days off shore to catch enough fish to justify the cost. Sucks, but this industry is in a horrible position.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Sarah P. Hampton Bays, NY — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:34:50 GMT

My father was a Captain in Montauk, NY for many years and it is hard hard work. It may be a luxury for those who are going fishing, but it isn't for the people working the boats.Rising fuel costs aren't the only things they have to deal with. The long-liners have been taking money away from families in fishing communities for years.They take only what they want from the nets and throw overboard all of the sea life they don't need, such as, dolphins and turtles, you name it, they kill it. Don't fool yourself when you buy tuna and it says dolphin safe. That doesn't mean they haven't killed any,it just means there isn't any in your can! Go after the long-liners and leave the independant fishermen alone.
And yes, some of those boats are owned by cooperations, but the majority are owned by people who have worked hard thier entire lives.
Bottom line is that the fuel costs are becoming a hardship for everyone. Leave the little guys alone.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Larry, Bellingham, Wa. — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:52:32 GMT

The sport fishing charters are not the reason the fishes in the oceons are declining. The improved machinery to catch more fish commercially has led to the decline in fish numbers. Another factor is that other countries infriging on the territories of countries other than their own. Take a look at the Redfish in the Gulf Coast areas and the Striped Bass in the Northeast coast as a prime example of what can be done to prevent the decline in the numbers of fish. The increases in fuel cost are attributed to those greedy individuals that have robbed the world since the beginning of time. Ultra wealthly people are nothing but greedy pigs and could care less about the people as a whole. I assure you that the American people will rise above this as always and continue on. What we need is fewer politicians and more Philanthropists. We shall survive....

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

rick rufo high springs florida — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:58:49 GMT

high gas prices have hit everyone. the large sportfish boat captains are not alone. sales of new ones are way off, highly trained repair technicians have lost many boat clients as well. between the salt
water fishing regulations and the high cost of fuel,this one-two wammy will put a lot of people out of work and cost florida millions and millons of dollars.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Frank Farrell,Loma Linda,Ca. — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 17:57:55 GMT

I live on the West Coast and prices here for Cattle boats, Charters and 6-Pacs have go sky high. Along with prices, catches have gone way down too. Some Capt. I think see the decline/over fished areas and will find spots were fish bite is very low and stay for 1 Hr and then the last spot of the day is 15 minutes and fish are biting like crazy. I decided to buy myself small 19.5' open bows and use them when I can and for some people who cant afford a boat but want to get out on the water Boat rentals have gone up also, high price charter insurance, Business liscence, storage, maintnance, damage repair, etc. I work for one of the top telephone co. in Ca. and it only pays the necs. bills. The boat rentals only pay for myself and clients hobbies.Frank,Chaotic Boat Rentals,So.Cal, I.E

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Tom Rodriguez, Key Largo, Fla. — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 18:16:43 GMT

I have lived in the Keys for over 20 years. Yes the fishing is not what it use to be but that is a combination of other Countries Long lining and netting where there are NO Quotas. Fish migrate and some species travel thousands of miles each year. The Keys fishermen will survive because that's what we are down here, survivors. I have traveled and fish out of more Marinas around the world than most people and I have never seen such a diverse amount of fish species in the waters of "The Keys", you see we have grass flats like Texas, Steel Structures like Lousianna,Sand Bars like the Carolina's, Deep drop off Canyons like Maryland/Delaware/Virgina and huge underwater humps like N.Y. all of these can be enjoyed in the same day in the same town.There is always something biting down here.Gotta go the tide is just right, ask a Charter Boat Captain to read a tide chart for you if your having problems.Please don't feel sorry for us our kids can catch there own dinner.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Terry Q. ,Anchorage, AK — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 18:33:34 GMT

Luxery charter boat captains feeling the pinch? What about the commercial guys who run out to the fishing grounds in a heavy steel vessel that burns up mega-fuel? Think the price of fresh seafood is expensive now? Just wait!

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Capt Dave — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 18:43:41 GMT

Sonm of the info in the lead story just doesn't add up. What I mean is that back in the late 80's, I ran two deep water charter fishing boats, one with a well worn 240 hp diesel and the other with a new (at that time) 485 hp turbo diesel. In both boats, equipped with single diesel engines, With either boat I was able to run ALL day, anywhere, at most any speed, for LESS than 25 gallons of diesel fuel. Really. Truly. NO kidding. Both these boats are toay still running active charters. Regardless of the cost per gallon, if these boats are running all day for 25 gallons, sure doesn't add up to today's math. If a diesel engine used 25 gallons of fuel on a full day charter in the 80's, that same engine in use today will perform close to the same. Where did these current guys get their numbers, statistics? Sounds mighty fishy to me!

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

charlie, xenia, il. — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:29:49 GMT

Yes high gas and diesel fuel prices has caused problems world wide. My question is why not suppliment your diesel or gas engin with hydrogen? I have done it and get 50% better mileage. I make these units and they work.So why not try it if you have to make it yourself. I got tired of using so much fuel at 5 bucks a gallon, I would try anything that works to get better mileage.. check out the hydrogen sites you will be amazed You can put them on any fossil fuel engine... I make kits for lots of people for every engine you can think of... its time America to step to the plate and help yourself dont wait for our so called government to help, they wont do it.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

dave skinner, jamestown, nc — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 06:32:51 GMT

We chartered for years for an extended family. Results were mixed (some lazy crews, eye-balling fish finder captains and such). Yet prices rose year over year. Bought our own sea-going boat, learning to fish. Ahhhh. We pick trips carefully, can go where the charter boats go; just don't go so furiously. Our choice, our money and time. Charters are businesses with a changing model. Change or perish in the marketplace. No sympathy for charters, and their expectation of tips is nothing more than a wage subsidy for the owner(s). 20% of a charter fee to bait hooks and gaff and clean fish. Makes us wonder what exactly a charter crewman/crewwoman's job description really is.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

jeffrey dady — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:14:18 GMT

what they should do is hire a tug boat to tow them out to the fishing grounds they can tow i guess 30 40 boats the savings wood be great ,also have a rig like a barge to keep the boats out there 5 6 days a week have a shuttle boat for the fairs new world new thinking....so is the delemor the great Texan has given us....

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

Sue, Islamorada, FL — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 18:52:14 GMT

In the Keys, it is much more complicated than just fuel prices. The average price of a low end non-waterfront home is close to $500,000... so whether an owner or renter, the price is outrageous just to provide a roof over your head. And taxes have gone out of sight in the last few years. Islamorada's cost of living... fuel costs, groceries, etc have climbed dramatically. Buying a boat - out of sight! Buying new fuel efficient engines, likewise. Mate needs more income to live in the Keys as does the captain. So it isn't just the fuel. And the locals all have the same problem so the captains cannot depend on locals to charter them instead of tourists. Locals with money have boats of their own.

This whole issue is more difficult than one article could relay.

High prices fuel charter fishing slowdown

lw Islamorada fl — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 22:05:23 GMT

I have one of those charter boats in Islamorada and to re-power is a minium of $50,000.00 plus. Yes the captains are feeling the slowdown and some of the them will fail and be gone. Some of them will have to change there operations to reflect modern times. Some of the boats will be sold by the absentee owners as the belts are tightened. I am sure these same thoughts are nationwide with anyone in the tourists trades.