What Every Co-Angler Needs to Know

[WB Staff]

What Every Co-Angler Needs to Know with Deanna Moreno & Kirk Marshall, Narrated by Ken Mah

Join us as professional angler Ken Mah narrates this insightful episode featuring two highly respected and winning co-anglers, Deanna Moreno and Kirk Marshall. Together, they share their expertise and break down everything you need to know to succeed as a co-angler in pro-am tournaments. Whether you’re a first-time co-angler or looking to sharpen your skills, this guide will help you hit the water with confidence.
What Every First-Time Co-Angler Needs to Know

Stepping into the world of co-angling for the first time can be exciting yet intimidating.

To help you hit the water with confidence, here’s what every first-time co-angler needs to know:

1. Communication is Key, your pro partner is your teammate for the day. Be sure to ask questions ahead of time, where and what time to meet, let them know if you need a back seat, discuss the plan, about netting fish, techniques they plan on, and any expectations. Clear communication sets the tone for a good day and a great experience.

2. Be positive about your day and the pro that you’ve drawn, if you stay positive you will learn form every angler you are fishing with even on a tough fishing day. Confidence goes a long way so feeling good about every spot you pull up on will help you both catch more fish.

3. Don’t give advice about how the pro should be fishing or where they should go. You are the co-angler and not there to make the fishing techniques or area decisions, if you do feel you need to make those decisions, fish as a pro.

4. Be respectful of your pro, don’t cast over their line or take that shot while he is making his way to the front of the boat – being aggressive like this is a good way to start a bad day. When you are respectful and helpful your pro will most likely reciprocate and help you when you need another fish or two. You’re not competing with your pro; you are competing with the other co-anglers.

5. Gas Money Etiquette, it’s routine to offer your pro gas money for the day. The amount can vary from $50–$70 depending on travel distance and local fuel costs. Offering $20 is insulting and may give you the reputation as a cheapskate. It’s a gesture that doesn’t depend on if you caught fish or not. If you cash a check, make the top ten or win out of that pros boat an extra amount would be a great gesture.

6. Pack Smart, bring enough gear to be prepared, but don’t overdo it. Stick to versatile setups that align with the techniques you plan to utilize or those techniques you have confidence in. Six to seven rods and a tackle bag with essentials should do the trick.

7. Dress for the Weather, prepare for any conditions by layering your clothing. Bring rain gear, sun protection, and comfortable footwear to stay focused and comfortable all day.

8. Essentials to Pack, don’t forget pliers, line cutters, cull tags, balance beam or scale, snacks, drinks, sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, and any medications or personal items you might need. Being prepared ensures a smooth and enjoyable day.

9. Respect the Boat, keep your space tidy, avoid stepping on seats, and handle the equipment with care. Treat the boat as if it’s your own—it’s a shared space, and good etiquette goes a long way.

10. Be Adaptable The day may not go exactly as planned, and that’s okay. Stay positive, learn from the experience, and adapt to the conditions on the water.

By following these tips, your first day as a co-angler will be smooth, enjoyable, and a great learning experience. Good luck and tight lines!

[Bassin777]

Maybe the so called pros need to know how to make the cos day great
I fished the us open last year all 3 so called pros were nothing but complete
Asses, not one of them wanted to show me how ffs works
Just sit in the back of the boat and shut up!!! Never again!!!!

[Fast Eddie]

"Cheapskate????) really! Who cares! Let your fishing prowess lead your reputation. There are some pretty big aholes out there as Bassin777 discovered. If I'm a 17 - 25 Y/O fishing my "first" tournament, I've probably spent a weeks salary just on entry fees, lodging, transportation etc etc, and now according to "Etiquette" I should shell out another 50 - 70 bucks or !00 -140 for gas. Not this cowboy. As a pretty successful co angler in my day, I based the amount on whether I had fun. (oh yeah, and don't let the "your getting a guide trip for the day" bother you, because not all Pros are guides as Bassin 777 found out). I've drawn my share of A holes and it's not fun. Especially if its your first tournament experience. Don't let it deter you from your dream. And for those detractors I did step up to the front and had limited success, but never expected anything from my Co's. IMHO shared weight is the most fun and the way to learn the most from each individual. (I believe the US Open is a shared weight format and because of a few we've lost a future pro)
If 20 bucks is all you can afford gladly had it to your Pro explain that's all you can afford. Most guys I know would be grateful. And if you cash a check, find him and offer a little more.
TL
FE
PS. The pro is going to fish whether you give him gas money or not and he should not expect it.

[JL]

I have fished many tournaments as a co angler as well. There is never a one fits all method of a great day on the water. But it definitely starts with good communication between the Pro and the Co angler the night before. Getting the meet up area and time is critical. A Pro or Co looking for his partner that isn't where they were supposed to meet is stressful for both. 99% of the Pro's are great guys that are going to help you have fun and catch fish! Yes! There are some A holes out there that do not belong in the pointy end of the boat! It happens! Chalk it up to the " Luck of the Draw" I always pay my "Fair Share" of gas money. I own a boat and KNOW what it costs to operate one. IMHO, $20 doesn't cut it any more! It's seriously $50 to $100. Keep your tackle and rods to a minimum and keep the boat clean and organized. Some Pros run and gun, some fish very slowly and thoroughly. If he is fishing fast, you may hit 20 to 30 spots during the day. Be ready to move when he tells you he is leaving. When I have to re rig a rod, I always ask the Pro if I have time before I start. Nothing worse than being in the middle of tying a new leader on and he says, Let's Go! Help with the boat after the day, wiping it down, etc! They will appreciate that after a long day! PS! Talk with your Pro on netting fish too. Discuss WHERE the net IS on his boat! Several times a Pro has called " NET" and I couldn't find it because it was in his rod locker! and of course talk about how he wants you to net one of his fish. A lost Big Fish due to a bad net job asks for a long silent day! My 02 cents!