We've got our first party boat trip planned for next week. The operator told me that a bucket would be passed around after the fishing for tips for the crew. I'm thinking that tipping might be more effective if it was done before we started fishing. Would this be a correct assumption? If so, what would be considered a decent tip and who should I tip?

Also I need to ask-is there a "best place" to fish from on a party boat? I heard people say the bow, others say the stern.

We've fished the bay for years but thought we would try the party boat thing. We're just going to use the supplied tackle and just hope to catch some eating fish.

Tipping before the trip is one way to ensure you will get someone to help you get your fish in and ice on it when you move to another spot. As for the location on the boat, I'd say that if you are going for kings it really doesn't matter but i like to get to the back corner if i'm going on a snapper trip.
Just mt 2 cents

Aussie hit the nail on the head. Back corner is ussually the best place better grab it quick, and if you tip the one of the deck hands or two of them on the way out. You will be set. Them fellas appreciate you thinkin of them as much you appreciate their help out there. They will ussually set you up with better rigs too if tipped up front a 20 spot should do. Have fun and post some pics.


Rob

The back corner is a good spot. I always take my own fishing pole.

I worked party boats for years and the back of the boat would be best for ya, not as many lines to tangle with once you get a fish on, and you're alot closer to the bait, bathroom, and cold beer...As for the tipping well i'll give you some great advice. Since they don't load customers on the boat till 5 minutes before they leave, customers can't get onto the boat and mark their spot. Now when you get to the dock find one of the deckhands, they'll be loading the boat with supplies. Stop him and give him a 10 and ask him to mark whatever # of spots you need on the back corner of the boat, be sure to mention that you'll take care of them later too. As for the tip jar thats passed around at the end of the trip, the amount you tip then should be your decision. Just to let ya know the deckhands split the tips. Good luck on the trip and i hope this info. helps ya out.

SteveB,

I have several bottom drop rigs made by MC Saltwater tackle that I could send you for your trip if you go.

I appreciate everyone's help and advice.

Greenwater, I thank you for your kind offer, but I'm afraid I couldn't get up with you in time as we're leaving Boerne Tuesday morning and going to Aransas Pass.