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Step into a hands-on, on the water training program designed to prepare you for a career in the fishing industry. This 40-hour course gives you the skills needed to step on almost any charter fishing boat with the confidence to perform at a high level on deck—and get hired.
This isn’t a classroom. It’s practical, on-the-water training built around what actually happens on a charter.
Rod and reel setup (Re-spooling reels with Dacron backing and mono top shot)
Knots, crimping, twisting wire, and leader building (mono, fluorocarbon, wire)
Bait rigging and lure preparation
Trolling spreads and teaser positioning
Hooking fish and assisting clients
Catching live bait
Fish handling, gaffing, and deck management
Using down riggers and out riggers
Boat awareness and working efficiently under pressure
Customer interaction and service (how to earn bigger tips)
Selling taxidermy
Understanding your captain
Great mates don’t just fish—they think ahead, move with purpose, and deliver an experience.
In this course, you’ll learn how to:
Stand out to captains
Work efficiently and confidently
Increase your value on every trip
Maximize your earning potential
Small class size (max 6 students) for real hands-on experience
Taught by experienced professionals—not theory-based instructors
On-the-water training in real conditions
Focus on both technical skills AND customer experience
Beginners looking to break into the charter industry
Current mates wanting to level up their skills
Anyone serious about working on a fishing boat and getting paid for it
Everyone who is passionate about fishing and wants to learn more
With only 6 spots per class, this program fills quickly.
Your tuition covers more than just training—it’s a full, immersive experience designed to set you up for success.
Included in the Course:
6 nights lodging at Sugarloaf Lodge (private room)
Breakfast and lunch for all 5 training days
2 group dinners (Dante’s & South of the Seven)
2 three-quarter day (6-hour) charter fishing trips
3 full-day (8-hour) charter fishing trips
Hands-on, on-the-water training with experienced professionals
Access to and inclusion in the consortium
Travel to and from Key West
Transportation during your stay
Step into a hands-on, on the water training program designed to prepare you for a career in the fishing industry. This 40-hour course gives you the skills needed to step on almost any charter fishing boat with the confidence to perform at a high level on deck—and get hired.
This isn’t a classroom. It’s practical, on-the-water training built around what actually happens on a charter.
Rod and reel setup (Re-spooling reels with Dacron backing and mono top shot)
Knots, crimping, twisting wire, and leader building (mono, fluorocarbon, wire)
Bait rigging and lure preparation
Trolling spreads and teaser positioning
Hooking fish and assisting clients
Catching live bait
Fish handling, gaffing, and deck management
Using down riggers and out riggers
Boat awareness and working efficiently under pressure
Customer interaction and service (how to earn bigger tips)
Selling taxidermy
Understanding your captain
Great mates don’t just fish—they think ahead, move with purpose, and deliver an experience.
In this course, you’ll learn how to:
Stand out to captains
Work efficiently and confidently
Increase your value on every trip
Maximize your earning potential
Small class size (max 6 students) for real hands-on experience
Taught by experienced professionals—not theory-based instructors
On-the-water training in real conditions
Focus on both technical skills AND customer experience
Beginners looking to break into the charter industry
Current mates wanting to level up their skills
Anyone serious about working on a fishing boat and getting paid for it
Everyone who is passionate about fishing and wants to learn more
With only 6 spots per class, this program fills quickly.
Your tuition covers more than just training—it’s a full, immersive experience designed to set you up for success.
Included in the Course:
6 nights lodging at Sugarloaf Lodge (private room)
Breakfast and lunch for all 5 training days
2 group dinners (Dante’s & South of the Seven)
2 three-quarter day (6-hour) charter fishing trips
3 full-day (8-hour) charter fishing trips
Hands-on, on-the-water training with experienced professionals
Access to and inclusion in the consortium
Travel to and from Key West
Transportation during your stay