Guide
How much to tip on a fishing charter
A common guideline is 15 to 20 percent of the trip price, in cash, handed to the captain or mate at the end of the day.
The custom
How much to tip on a fishing charter
Tipping the crew is customary on US fishing charters. A common guideline is 15 to 20 percent of the trip price, more for an exceptional day and in cash. The tip is usually handed to the captain or mate at the end of the trip, and on boats with a mate it often goes mostly to the mate, who works for tips.
Example: on an $800 half-day charter, 15 to 20 percent is $120 to $160 for the crew.
Situations
When the day is different
- Slow fishing: the crew still worked the full trip. Most anglers still tip, perhaps at the lower end.
- Party boat: mates on head boats work for tips too; a few dollars to $20 per person is common, more if they cleaned your fish.
- Fish cleaning: if the mate cleans and bags your catch, an extra tip is customary unless cleaning is included.
- A group: collect the tip together and hand it over once.
Note
This is a custom, not a rule
Tipping is optional and local customs vary. If the price already includes a gratuity, the captain will say so – ask when you book.
Questions
Quick answers
Do you tip the captain if he owns the boat?
Many anglers still tip the crew as a whole and let the captain split it. If unsure, hand the tip to the mate.
Should I tip in cash?
Cash is easiest for the crew. Some captains also take tips by card or app – ask.
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