Hi James - I’m going to be doing a few FLW stops in 2021 as a co-angler.  I plan on bringing gas money and coffee for my boater.  I’m only going to bring 3 setups and a single backpack to limit my “baggage”. I’m looking forward to just being in the experience of the tournament and thankful to my boater for allowing me on board.  Any other tips you might be able to provide?

I have no experience with this but maybe a camera and something to take notes with

51 minutes ago, GTN said:

I have no experience with this but maybe a camera and something to take notes with

Good advice and noted!

Be respectful of the boat, don’t step on seats etc. feel put your partner to see if they like small talk or prefer quiet concentration. Fishing wise, don’t be afraid to fish off the opposite side (deeper or shallower) and target the backside of structure the boater has hit the front of. When in doubt, ask. Communication is critical. 

The best experience I had as a co-angler was due to the communication I had with the pro on a particular day. My fish counted toward his bag, so it was to his advantage to have me contribute as much as possible. We met the night before and he asked me what kind of setups I had. He told me that there was only one he wanted me to bring and he would supply the rest. He explained exactly how he wanted me to behave, exactly when I should get up as we were entering an area, when to take off and put on the life jacket, and exactly when to stop fishing if we were changing spots. He told me that he would tell me when to come up front to fish off the bow with him if necessary, how to handle netting fish, and what baits we would using.

 

As mentioned above, communication is key, especially before you blast off so your productive tournament time can be maximized as much as possible.

 

I hope you draw a good partner. That can make it super fun.

I think your mind set is right on target.

 

 It’s so important “to me” to make it an enjoyable day, so ask and see if there is anything that he does a certain way, as we all have our systems.  Ask if your partner is a conversationalist or not, so that you guys are on the same page. 

 

Have a conversation with him about the manner he plans to fish so that you don’t overpack but at the same time bring a couple items that “might” come into play as well as some confidence baits based on water your on and time of year just in case his plan doesn’t pan out and you guys are forced into scramble mode.

 

  In the matter of on the water courtesy I would suggest allowing your partner the ability to fish the water thoroughly before taking a crack at whatever is coming towards you on either side of the boat.  This way he can fish at his pace and not be rushed and in turn feel a need to fish defensively, allowing both anglers an opportunity at presenting baits properly.

 

Hope this helps.   Wish you all the best!

Thank you so much to everyone that gave advice.  I will definitely be heeding everyone’s suggestions. I’m hoping this is going to be a great experience!