04-17-2003, 04:55 PM
Hey there guest,
The bait barges have their regular sportboat clientle and then others. I fish the Long Beach area and there is a certain way you need to approach the bait barges during their busy hours. All these bait barges have guys running them who have strong personalities. I suggest:
1) Get bait during their non-peak times (peak times: when the local sportboats (cattleboats) are wanting to bait up and get out) go early (our area 5:30 is good depending on season) or after the sportboat rush if you can.
2) If you have a radio, call them up for instructions and info.
3) Some barges have a special place on their barge where smaller, private boaters can tie up.
4) Be patient, if you see guys from the boats helping out the barge guy, you should guess he might be short handed and you'll have to wait till HE'S GOT TIME FOR YOU.
5) Follow instructions and check out how things are done. If he he feels you know what you're doing he'll be a lot happier camper. ha ha
Hope this helps, as you can guess I've worked the boats.
JapanRon
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