chartering my boat, how do I?

[jeff]

I have a nice 22' c.c. fully decked, I would like to make some extra cash by taking people out on nice days offshore fishing, I know I could charge a lot less than bigger boats, plus, me and my friend always catch fish.I just dont know how to get started legally doing this, any help please?

[Captain_Cary_Hanna]

First you will need to log in 365 days on your boat. 4 hours is considered a day. If you have time logged in on someone elses boat they will have to sign notorized documents. Next take the sea school course and pass the 4 exams. Next get your boat liscense from the courthouse, $200.00 which will cover everyones fishing liscense up to 4 people on your boat, Mandantory. Next your boat must be documented by the coast guard. Next you will also need a billfish permit in order to catch billfish. Next you will have to get the liability insurance to cover everyone on your boat. Hope it works out.
Capt. Cary Hanna
www.newlattitude.com

[George Woodward]

Documentation is required only on boats heavier than 5 tons. While each state is different, the Federal requirement is the same. If you can document your time on water or have a updated log book, take the Captain's courses and tests. Then you have a year to validate your paperwork with the USCG.