Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides
muskie-addict
Posted 2/1/2010 2:05 PM (#421019)
Subject: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 272


Read a recent post about this on another site. The post cited an article in the Pioneer Press about the Coast Guard supposedly now beginning to enforce an old existing law requiring kind of a chauffer's license of sorts, for guides, among other users, operating on some parts of the BWCAW, the Missi River, St. Croix and "many lakes in northern Minnesota."

Anybody heard of this?

The main gist of one of the persons quoted in this article is all of the new hoops he felt a guide would need to jump through now.

Among those were things like passing random drug tests, CPR training, a reasonable amount of time on the water, personal references, pass a physical health certification, yada yada. The source was really moaning about this. And the fee and some big test the have to take. Sounds alot like a captain's license to me.

At first glance, this doesn't sound all that unreasonable. As a client, it might be kinda nice to know my guide passes another set of inspecting eyes/criteria, isn't addicted to blow, could help save my dad should he have a heart attack, is fairly healthy......and has spent time on the water. I'm sure paying the extra bones to take the test and get your permit or whatever is kind of a downer for a guide. Totally understand that.

I don't know how the current guiding licensing process works. Does this law go too far? Why does it not apply to WI guides. St. Croix and Missi are WI waters too.

Just curious.

-Eric
happy hooker
Posted 2/1/2010 2:42 PM (#421032 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 3147


I dont know the particulars but make no mistake they are or have enforced it,,last year I know of two St Croix guides who the coast guard talked to, they even came to ones place of biz.

Edited by happy hooker 2/1/2010 2:43 PM
Guest
Posted 2/1/2010 4:22 PM (#421052 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


I was told if you do not have your 6 pack licence, and they find you guiding, they can take everything in your position, including your boat and truck. As the walleye guys on the mississippi. they will be enforcing it on Milacs, Vermilion, Leach, LOTW I was told
Guest
Posted 2/1/2010 4:41 PM (#421056 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


On the Great Lakes, where we need that plus state inspection, we look at it as a blessing..... It keeps the fly by nighters from popping up and print a brochure, charging 100 bucks less,etc. And believe me they still pop up, last a couple years then are gone.
Guest
Posted 2/1/2010 4:45 PM (#421058 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


Once this gets rolling, you will see all kinds of posts on the net asking if so and so is licensed, etc. Soon as a new guy gets in, people will be saying and questioning his credentials big time. Better off getting it done then looking over your shoulder like that....just a tip from the Great Lakes. Around here, people turn people in all the time. It's a federal offence.
Dave Williamson
Posted 2/1/2010 5:07 PM (#421061 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 203


Location: Alexandria, Minnesota
Yes... It is true.
I will be taking my classes in April , but I know a large group of guides that are taking the classes this week. I am all for having some sort of guides license for Minnesota guides. I guess, what has most of us upset about having to get the Coast Guard Six Pack is the expense of it all. Just for all the testing and classes comes to around $1400.00. Once you add the cost of transportation, lodging, and the loss of income for the week of the classes. You are looking at somewhere in the ball park of $2000-$2500 bucks. You add that into your normal advertising, boat payments, equipment, and Guide Insurance cost. It is going to make it nearly impossible for some guys to see a profit, Therefore; you will see this putting a lot of guys, that just guided on the weekends or a couple of days a week , out of business. It is not the best thing for consumers either. If you look at what it cost to go fishing with a guide down in Florida or the gulf coast areas. Some of those guys charge as much as $600 for 8 hrs of fishing.

I just think it is bad timing for something like this. It has been hard enough to get people on the water the last few years because of the weak economy, but now it will be even harder when most guides are going to have to raise their prices so they can cover their operating cost.

Question...... Are you guys willing to pay $450-$500 for eight hrs of fishing?



Edited by Dave Williamson 2/1/2010 5:57 PM
KidDerringer
Posted 2/1/2010 5:59 PM (#421071 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 244


Location: Mallard Island Lake Vermilion MN
Never heard anything offical myself...just crap from bars an disgruntled pepole got nothing better to do.

Dave Williamson....how did coast gaurd inform you all?

Never heard anything offical from anyone offical myself for Vermilion?
I'm pretty easy to find.
Last I heard stuff was on hold and being rewriten for inland waters?
DA!
Oberstars office says little.
Were working on it ...like that?
Weird.

Nothing wrong with it I guess, just bad timing money wise and no offical notifcation......an one more thing the man has to keep ya under his thumb.

Kind a silly to ask a kid that guides out of a resort to have a 6 pack.
Or weekend guides...kiind of sad for them.

I mostly do half dayz now dayz an only with I have either guided before or meet an hit it off with...so seriously an dobut I would bother taken any test to guide with that much money on the line.
Simply not into it or money except earning enuff to pay basic costs to keep doing it...
I would simply stop taken people out...go fish for me...period.

I hire me all the time.

Maybe someone reading this knows where one can inf dout where to read the offical notiifacation?

Keep on Rocken!

Tommy




Edited by KidDerringer 2/1/2010 6:04 PM
Dave Williamson
Posted 2/1/2010 6:19 PM (#421075 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 203


Location: Alexandria, Minnesota
Tommy.......I would give the coast guard a call.
thrax_johnson
Posted 2/1/2010 7:20 PM (#421092 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 313


Location: Bemidji, Lake Vermilion
To the best of my knowledge, this is national and applies to anywhere considered Coast Guard waters. I am simply amazed at the lack of reasonably findable information on this. I have scoured the internet for it, and mostly can just find info on other forums. Exactly what will be required who it will be required of and what the full process is to meet those requirements is very vague at best. I will consider calling the Coast Guard but this is government at its finest again, can't get any answers and nearly everyone I've talked to are getting different answers all the time. I have been told there is a chance that you can still get a limited OUPV and that it would be grandfathered in? Answers are unclear at best and there needs to be a central source of information with clear and definitive answers. It is also a little crazy to believe a full six pack license would be required of someone to take out a small group of no more than 3 persons for a simple guide excursion on most inland waters. I have heard of some people pushing to establish a different license, that would still have requirements (not sure what they would be) that would be more appropriate, still work to ensure safety but be more realistic for part time or recreational guides taking out limited numbers in their boat at one time. Hope this thread starts to at least generate some info from people who have more information than myself and others do. Thanks in advance for those helpful people and I will stand back and wait for the conflicting info to fly!!
Pointerpride102
Posted 2/1/2010 7:50 PM (#421110 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 16632


Location: The desert
Well I don't know how much help this will be for you guys but I found this on the coast guard website.

http://www.uscg.mil/NMC/cb_capt.asp
Murph!
Posted 2/1/2010 11:23 PM (#421161 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


It's true. I talked to 3 Coast Guard officers at the recent St. Paul Sportshow, they had a booth at the show. I asked them several questions concerning the rumors surrounding the Captain's license requirement. All stated that it will be enforced and they want all guides on certain waters that are named by the Secretary of the Interior to be in compliance with the law. They stated that it was a 1910 law and it will be enforced. There are several means available to obtain the license. Some are lectures and there are on-line courses. I am enrolled in an on-line course named the Mariners Learning System. I know two Captains that used the course. The fee is $600 for this course. I will be taking the final exam on March 3rd in Chicago. There are also several requirements that have been already mentioned in other threads that also must be met. There are serious consequences if you are caught guiding on these waters without the Six Pack license. The officer also made a good point in that your guide insurance may be null and void if you have an accident and do not have the required license. I know it sucks, but you have to do what you have to do.

Murph
MuskyFix
Posted 2/2/2010 12:28 AM (#421166 - in reply to #421161)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





I had to get mine for the Fox Chain here in IL.
I'm glad I got it, one sleeps better at night knowing his Insurance will still be valid.
It was tough and a lot of work. I could see there be a valid point in having it on big water. It was very useful.

By the way I don't like the work captain lol...
Merchat mariner souds better.
yooper
Posted 2/2/2010 1:19 AM (#421171 - in reply to #421061)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 133


Location: Duluth, MN
I took the class last spring in Duluth. Anyone looking for info can PM me I can give you the number of the Capt. running the class.

It's a money pit license.
classes and test fees
twic card reqired
must be part of a random drug test screening
first aid course
physical
eye exam
plus license fees

Edited by yooper 2/2/2010 1:23 AM
hick
Posted 2/2/2010 3:09 AM (#421173 - in reply to #421171)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


what are the mn waters????? is mille lacs or not mille lacs???? anybody know where i could find a list of lakes?
Murph!
Posted 2/2/2010 7:12 AM (#421180 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


Mille Lacs is included.
MRoberts
Posted 2/2/2010 9:03 AM (#421197 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 714


Location: Rhinelander, WI
Do all federal boating regulations apply to these waters or is it just a Guiding/Captain issue.

In a number of cases federal regulations are quite different than State regulations. For example, I believe every child under 12 must have a life jacket on at all times according to federal regulations, I know there are some other rules.

If this is the case these Coast Guard rules would not just affect guides but anyone visting those waters, if they don’t follow all federal regulations. Currently in Wisconsin federal regulations only apply to waters connected to the Great Lakes. But there are forces working to get them to apply to inland waters also. At least according to the last WDNR Warden I talked to.

Nail A Pig!

Mike
Laker
Posted 2/2/2010 10:14 AM (#421212 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


Is there a list of lakes somewhere?
steve scepaniak
Posted 2/2/2010 10:50 AM (#421219 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


Hi
I am concerned on this matter. I guide for a resort on Mille Lacs Lake and am concerned about this. This is what I hear.
I talked with the owner of McQuoids Resort on Mille Lacs Lake.
He told me that he put allot of time and effort and investigated this into great detail.
He talked to the Coast Guard in Duluth and checked with numerous coast guard facilities through out the mid west. And checked with the state. As of now Mille Lacs Lake is "NOT" included. That is not to say that next year it may be.
The problem I see is that there is so many conflicting reports it is hard to determine what is what. I feel that it is up to our DNR or a state official to make it "PERFECTLY" clear who is all included and who is not. Other wise hold off on the tickets and fines until things are perfectly clear and spelled out.

Steve Scepaniak
JKH431
Posted 2/2/2010 12:36 PM (#421237 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 26


Location: Bayfield, Wisconsin
The link Pointer provided is the right one... The link, plus the website associated has all the info needed for MMC (Merchant Marine Credentials).

Those who are getting licensed this year will want to worry about OUPV or possibly the limited OUPV (if this license is available for your body of water - such as Rainy Lake or LOW - but then you are only limited to operate a boat for hire on that water). You could also get a masters license if you wish, it is overkill, but can be nice to have if you wanted to pilot other vessels in the future that have over 6 passengers.

There is a lot of red tape in this process, including the application process. It took me almost 4 months after being completed with the class to actually receive my creditial. The best thing I can tell anyone to do, is complete the application ASAP and send it in to be processed. Then, all they will need is that you passed your test and the next phase will happen.

For lakes listed, any and all that are federally navigable will be effected. I am sure Mille Lacs is not. But, Leech - Cass - Winnie - Vermillion - etc most likely are, just as Rainy and LOW. Call the USCG Station in Duluth with concerns on your body of water, to be safe.



KidDerringer
Posted 2/2/2010 1:06 PM (#421244 - in reply to #421237)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 244


Location: Mallard Island Lake Vermilion MN
Odd thing is past six months I have talked to many people, none have smae story...even coast gaurd...some coast gaurd guys don't even know where Vermilion is.


AND.....everyone taking a test seem to all be taking diffrent kinds of tests.

Coast gaurd going to patrol Vermilion now busting a kid for guding out of a resort.

Come flying in with a huge boat armed with deck guns an full armed crew.

Be fun to see.

DNR don't hardly patrol...be fun to see this enforced.


Bring on the big guns.

Jimbo
Posted 2/2/2010 2:01 PM (#421256 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


Having to get a US Coast Guard Captain's gig for inland lakes is a little much, I think.
Jim Stroede
happy hooker
Posted 2/2/2010 2:03 PM (#421257 - in reply to #421244)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 3147


kid

On Vermilion would you know the diff
the big rigs come flyin in anyways
#10 Double blades or 5 inch Deck guns,your still gonna get hit with Schrapnel


Edited by happy hooker 2/2/2010 2:04 PM
just_one_more_cast
Posted 2/2/2010 2:13 PM (#421259 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 76


Location: Bartlett IL
Did a Google search for "federally navigable waters" and came up with this link for the Ninth District http://www.uscg.mil/d9/D9Legal/Waterways.asp

Illinois, Wisconsin & Minnesota are split between the 8th & 9th Districts and I did not see a similar list for the 8th District.
Big V
Posted 2/2/2010 2:50 PM (#421267 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


didn't see vermilion in the list but I did see a lake caled VermiLLion. they don't know where the lake is and they can't spell it either.
KidDerringer
Posted 2/2/2010 7:43 PM (#421330 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 244


Location: Mallard Island Lake Vermilion MN
Fun stuff hooker!!!

You been around long time an seen it change....I was retro fitting my rig with a bullet proof bubble like Prez Kenndy used to have an Hubert used sometimes. But them Deck guns is rather large....guess have look online, get me a few mounted to fire back!
D'OH!!!


Save some money an pay some crooked state, Fed an elected officals I know get me the papers I need for free.

IF they ever deside what papers ya really need.

But I aint no captain....I want creds say I'm an Admrial sir!


Yup...no more musky Tommy....address me as Admrial Wehler........period.

Was up 4300 feet over Chisago Lake Saturday in hot air Balloon we were in vited to ride in.....Better than a woodchipper......oh you won't do it eh....well get out...now.
LOL




Keep on rocken!

Admiral W.



BIG V
Good eye!

Two winters ago I seen a new guide to the lake in a parking lot before his seminar....we talked a bit as he aint a bad guy, just full of himself a bit.....well when he turned around I seen he had VermiLLion on his jacket as one of the big three he fished now......trying to have a bit more fun I said...dude....you would not be to good on Wheel of Fortune!
He saud WHAT?
I laughed...never said a word....he did not get it...but walking by his truck I noticed it had VermiLLion on it.
I said..dude...they have a buy one get one free on the L's.
Still he did not get it......I rest my case on that one.
Later in summer seen him by Food Station on run home......he had new printing on truck....must be a late bloomer....wonder if her restiched coat / jacket.
To fun.


Larry Jones
Posted 2/2/2010 10:42 PM (#421372 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


Then after you get your Merchant Marine Officers License you will have to join NAVCO or another Charter Boat Assoc. that has Random Drug Testing.Renew Standard Firstaid & CPR Training every year.Also check U.S.Coast Guard Regs,your Vessel Safety Equipment may be different then State Guide requirements.For one you will need Type1 Life Preservers for each person onboard with Lights(batteries dated) and whistle attached.
You may also have to carry 1 Million Dollars in Liability Insurance and 50 Thousand in Medical Coverage for each Passenger.

Capt. Larry D. Jones
Vice Pres. of
Eastern Lake Erie Charter Boat Assoc.
happy hooker
Posted 2/3/2010 5:50 AM (#421394 - in reply to #421372)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 3147


Being captains you can now mary people on your boat so besides just personal floatation you will have to store tuxedos and gowns too
KidDerringer
Posted 2/3/2010 9:26 AM (#421424 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 244


Location: Mallard Island Lake Vermilion MN
Cool, some poeple still do get married.

I would enjoy the right to bury people at sea thingy.
For sure know lots of people could test that one out on....well given they was crooked out an almost wormy.

I aint no killer.....well I guess I would have to say that ONLINE!


But betting could do this for people, save them money, we make some money, an leave some nice hunting an farm land open insted of filling it with boxes of stiffs.

Plus no doubt they hire ya next season, EVERY season to go visit the spot ya dumped the dead bastard.
As the young guys say at muskie expos when the floor is full an money is flowing with people buying pretty stuff they don't need, will never need.....CHA CHING!!


This is getting better an better.

Seriously have really no trouble with laws an regs, we always have followed everything told or asked to do...but this is kind a silly.......just the as mentioned above money pit and timing.

T
MuskyFix
Posted 2/3/2010 1:28 PM (#421473 - in reply to #421424)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





I would say when you have people for hire on board and it's big water or not you should know what to do in an emergency.

What I don't understand why a guy in a cigarette boat can go 70 mph and not even need a safety coarse and some don't have a clue about courtesy.

Edited by MuskyFix 2/3/2010 1:56 PM
Josh Borovsky
Posted 2/3/2010 10:15 PM (#421582 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


I will post this as a new thread too so it doesn't get lost. I have arranged for Captain Rudy Beshensky to instruct a Captain's License Certification Course in the Twin Cities area. I got two very good reviews from different people that went through the course with him at different times/locations.

The course will run every day from 3/26 through 4/1 and the hours will be 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with a one hour break for lunch. The cost for the course will be $845 per person.

Please contact me as soon as possible if you are interested in attending. There is a minimum and maximum number for the class so there are two reasons to act quickly. (If we don't get enough people, the class won't happen. If we get too many, you might miss getting your spot.) Please send me an email to [email protected] if you are interested. Thanks.
Herb_b
Posted 2/4/2010 1:37 PM (#421697 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 829


Location: Maple Grove, MN
So, what defines a "guide"? Does being a "guide" require charging money? What if your fishing partner brings lunch or gives you a lure or two? What about gas money?

Some people I fish with say I am like a guide except I don't charge money. I have no problem sharing my boat and equipment with fiends, co-workers, family, etc. My reward is not money - it is simply spending time with people doing something we all enjoy. Sometimes people give me a lure, bring lunch, or offer gas money, but none of that is required.

So, am I a guide or not? I have never thought so, but now I'm not so sure. It all depends on the definition of a "guide".

The last thing I want is to be called "Captain Herb".
yooper
Posted 2/4/2010 2:37 PM (#421704 - in reply to #421697)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 133


Location: Duluth, MN
Herb(capt Herb)

I took the class last year and the same question was brought up. According to the coast guard if you except anything it's payment for services. This does include a candy bar, can of pop, lunch, lures..........

I had someone tell me they were investigated over something like a can of coke.

Edited by yooper 2/4/2010 2:40 PM
Herb_b
Posted 2/4/2010 2:58 PM (#421706 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 829


Location: Maple Grove, MN
That is what I was afraid of. So, you get off the water and your fishing partner offers you a few dollars for gas money. And then a warden or police officer sees that and you get ticketed for guiding without a license.

But what if you provide lunch for the people fishing with you? Are they then the guide or does the "guide" have to be the boat owner?

So, what if you borrow someone else's boat? Who is the guide then?

So, what if you swap candy bars? Does the person with the largest candy bar become the "guide"?

This whole thing sounds silly to me.
Flambeauski
Posted 2/4/2010 3:39 PM (#421715 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 4343


Location: Smith Creek
I think its more like if you accept anything and claim it on your taxes. The burden of proof would be on the feds to prove you received a can of coke for your services and not just cause you were thirsty.
Gas money doesn't qualify as a guide's wage, unless you try to claim a deduction for your boat and gas expenses.
Crawdad
Posted 2/4/2010 4:59 PM (#421732 - in reply to #421715)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 19


I think if people were smart, they would be contacting your representatives and raising hell about these issues. Let them then try and get this nonsense stopped. As far as I am concerned everyone should just tell there clients that if anyone asks they are great friends out for the day. I really think that with a little pressure on your local state reps that this issue would get cleaned up real fast. Mike
muskie-addict
Posted 2/4/2010 8:48 PM (#421780 - in reply to #421732)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 272


The thing about this that is the most interesting to me is that the Coasties are involved. Or at least that's the way I'm reading this.

So, since they're involved, and since the Coasties are federal, are they not....???.....why are we just talking about Minnesota with this? Especially since the Missi and St. Croix Rivers are supposedly involved here.

I guess if i were a WI guide, I'd be minding my P's and Q's on this one.
Top H2O
Posted 2/4/2010 9:20 PM (#421785 - in reply to #421780)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 4080


Location: Elko - Lake Vermilion
This sounds like a Goverment Cluster at it's best...... When will our fed.gvt. leave the working man/woman alone ??? I think this is just the begining of more govt. control over our lives.

Jerome
tuffy1
Posted 2/4/2010 9:33 PM (#421793 - in reply to #421780)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 3240


Location: Racine, Wi
Addict,
There are quite a few waters in WI that require a captain's license. They are all as mentioned above "Federal Waterways". The Winnebago lakes, Fox River, etc are consider Federal Waterways as they connect to Lake Michigan. Even the Fox Chain is considered a federal waterway and you are required to have a captains license out there to guide now as well. The Fox Chain isn't nearly as big as some of the MN lakes under the scope here, but since it's considered a federal waterway, guides out there need to have their captain's licenses.

Not saying if I agree or disagree with this requirement, just what I understand on the WI and Northern IL side of the spectrum. I personally think that it can't hurt to have a captains license and if it's been on the books this long, it was bound to be exposed.
yooper
Posted 2/4/2010 10:43 PM (#421807 - in reply to #421780)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 133


Location: Duluth, MN
The miss is federal water and if you guide on any federal water you need a capt license not just in minn.

Before 9-11 the coast guard controlled only the federal water ways. After 9-11 the coast guard came in control of all inland waters along with the federal water ways and they are pushing the capt license because of safety and they want to know who is on the water running people around on these waters.

As far as Wis guide minding p's and q's. I'm sure license requirements will expand to more waters in wis and other states as well and the list on lakes in minn may expand also.

If your guiding on waters that don't require a capt license don't be shocked within the next couple of years it may be required.

Nothing to mess around with. Two years ago someone in minn or wis was warned several times not to guide without a capt lic . He was caught again by the coast gaurd and a warden. They had him drive his boat to where he lauched it and put the boat on the trailer. When he pulled it out of the water there two sheriff deputies waiting. One deputy drove the truck and trailer and the other the squad car. The boat was a newer ranger and is now driven by a game warden and I think the truck was auctioned off. Over $50,000 was still owed between the truck and the boat. ouch

Edited by yooper 2/4/2010 10:46 PM
Larry Jones
Posted 2/5/2010 8:29 AM (#421836 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Drug Consortium


Each U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captian & Crew will need to belong to a random drug testing consortium.The Charter Captian's in MN can start an Assoc. and have random drug teating through a place like Quest or each individual Captian can join The Maritime Consortium at http://www.drugfreevessel.com/.To be in complinance with U.S. Coast Guard Regs every Licensed Captian must have in possesion if checked on the water an up to date drug test slip or show a membership card to a random drug testing consortium.Testing on your own will cost you about $80,if your in a local random drug testing consortium(local charter boat assoc.) a negociated price might be as low as $35 per test and only 25% of the membership will be randomly picked to test through out the season year.

Capt. Larry D. Jones
MuskyFix
Posted 2/5/2010 8:32 AM (#421838 - in reply to #421836)
Subject: RE: Drug Consortium





You also need a a twic card and type I floatation for each persons.
TSA: Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC™)
Wimuskyfisherman
Posted 2/5/2010 10:52 AM (#421867 - in reply to #421838)
Subject: RE: Drug Consortium




Posts: 229


What happens if a captain fails a drug test?
GUEST
Posted 2/5/2010 11:18 AM (#421875 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


I think if people were smart, they would be contacting your representatives and raising hell about these issues. Let them then try and get this nonsense stopped. As far as I am concerned everyone should just tell there clients that if anyone asks they are great friends out for the day. I really think that with a little pressure on your local state reps that this issue would get cleaned up real fast. Mike

GO AHEAD AND LIE TO A COAST GUARD. IF YOU GET CAUGHT, SAY GOOD BYE TO YOUR GUIDE LICENSE AND A HEALTHY FINE.
Herb_b
Posted 2/5/2010 1:39 PM (#421899 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 829


Location: Maple Grove, MN
OK, so the Feds are now afraid terrorists are going to go fishing????? Next thing the terrorists might do is going bowling. My gosh. What is this world coming to!

Seems like an excuse to try restrict fishing rights. First, go after the "evil" fishing guides who are trying to "profit" from the natural resources, (some would say make a living), and then go after the regular sports fisherpeople.

I hope all who voted for the current president are happy now. And I always heard that Democrats were out to defend the "little" guy. So, who is "littler" than somone trying to make a living by guiding? Even the best fishing guides cannot be considered "rich" by any means.
Flambeauski
Posted 2/5/2010 1:50 PM (#421900 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 4343


Location: Smith Creek
That's one way to look at it. The way I see it is the guys on the great lakes have always needed the capt. licence, why shouldn't the other guys on fed waters. Also, it reduces the number of fly-by night guys who take business from the "regulars" and when you have guys who know the border waters well its nice to know they're on the up and up.
happy hooker
Posted 2/5/2010 2:15 PM (#421901 - in reply to #421900)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 3147


Herb
terrorists DO go to Bowling alleys,,,,see the "Big Lebowski"
john skarie
Posted 2/5/2010 3:29 PM (#421912 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 221


Location: Detroint Lakes, MN

Herb where do you come up with those ideas??

How in the world does the current President have anything to do with the Coast Guard now enforcing a law that they were overlooking for decades??

Guides in other states have had to do what the MN Coast Guard was overlooking for a long time. That's actually how this whole thing got started. Some guides that work in Alaska came to MN. They contacted the Coast Guard office in Duluth to renew the liscence they had to have in Alaska. The MN guys didn't know what they were talking about until they looked into it and realized that they should have been requiring it. In Alaska all they did were run jon-boats on trout and salmon rivers with a couple of clients, just like MN guiding so they assumed the same requirments would apply.


Not a real big conspiracy there.

JS
thrax_johnson
Posted 2/5/2010 6:13 PM (#421948 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 313


Location: Bemidji, Lake Vermilion
I still think the level of the requirements is a bit much, I'm all for safety and can say I've met or seen a few guys who should probably not be guiding. That said, I think most guides are already amongst the most safety aware on the water. It would be far better to regulate the kids on their jet ski's and PWC's, the couple time a year "recreational boaters" who have no clue about safety and are usually the ones to create hazardous or deadly situations on the water. Regulate - fine, over-regulate and control to insane levels - not fine. A different set of requirements could certainly and reasonably be agreed upon by both the government and people wishing to be in this type of business to ensure safety and some accountability (given not everyone will be happy, but there has to be a medium somewhere). I am/was in the process of getting a part time service available mostly catering to people I already know on a limited basis and personally feel this is excessive. I consider myself very safe, have been averaging over 100 days on the water per year and don't think people like me are really the "problem."
Larry Jones
Posted 2/5/2010 7:21 PM (#421957 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


If you have an accident on the water you have Two Hours to take an Alcohol Test,so if you can not get to a testing facility with in that two hour period you will need a Field Alcohol Testing Kit approved by the U.S. Coast Guard aborad your vessel.
http://app.testyourselfathome.com/cf.inventory.php?action=showinvde...

Capt. Larry D. Jones
BenR
Posted 2/5/2010 7:34 PM (#421959 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


The muskie community loves regulations, why such an issue with this one...BR
muskie maniac
Posted 2/5/2010 9:44 PM (#421978 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


im tryin to guide wi mn waters this coming up season... i was wondering what type of lisc etc i need to get started
guest
Posted 2/6/2010 8:56 AM (#422010 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


I like the fact that guides are now going to be licensed. In the past it has seemed that anyone with a printer and a boat is a guide. I have observed some really rude guides that haven't a clue what they are doing in a boat. Getting some uniformity should be good for all. Now it will be easy for the average person to find out who the guides who are dedicated are and which ones are playing guide.
Larry Jones
Posted 2/6/2010 9:05 AM (#422014 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


If your one that has to take the U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Officers Test to get licensed.The U.S. Coast Guard / Homeland Security will not issue a license until you have the TWIC card(Transportation Workers Identification Credential).Getting the TWIC card can take from 2 to 6 months so start on getting it first.When you get the TWIC card and have passed the Merchant Marine Officers Test the U.S. Coast Guard will still not issue the license without proof of Standard First Aid,CPR and Man Overboard Training.The American Red Cross offers these or take the PADI course at a local Dive Shop.

Capt. Larry D. Jones
Larry Jones
Posted 2/6/2010 9:27 AM (#422018 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: RE: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides


Once you get your Merchant Marine Officers License you will need to change your Boat Insurance to Charter Boat Policy.Your State may have limits set for Liability Insurance and Medical Coverage per Client taken on the water.Here in NY it is 1 Million Liability and $50 Thousand Medical per Client taken on the water.
If your boat is 10 years old or older you may be required to get a Marine Survey by the Insurance Co. before they will cover.
To keep from being boarded by the U.S. Coast Guard / Homeland Security for Safety Equipment check have a U.S. Coast Guard Charter Boat Inspection done each year,decal will be placed on your boat.

Capt. Larry D. Jones
AWH
Posted 2/6/2010 10:53 AM (#422032 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides





Posts: 1243


Location: Musky Tackle Online, MN
From yesterday's Minneapolis paper.

http://www.startribune.com/sports/outdoors/83603337.html?elr=KArksi...

Aaron
Top H2O
Posted 2/6/2010 11:07 AM (#422035 - in reply to #422032)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 4080


Location: Elko - Lake Vermilion
well that sure cleared things up,,Is anyone else confused yet ?

Jerome
Troyz.
Posted 2/6/2010 2:21 PM (#422055 - in reply to #422035)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 734


Location: Watertown, MN
Heck I thought this law meant the each guide was required to have a six pack in their boat for clients. Bitt over the top, but this is not a guides license.

Troyz

What a great winter topics
bturg
Posted 2/6/2010 5:30 PM (#422086 - in reply to #421019)
Subject: Re: Coast Guard Six Pack License for MN guides




Posts: 716


It amazes me that people think this will improve anything re: guiding in any way.

Part Time, Full Time, Two years, Ten years, licenced , Non-licenced Coast Guard tested or not, "really" a guide or "playing" guide (whatever that means) Not one thing listed above will ensure you a quality guided experience on the water...only the quality and attitude of the individual providing the service can/will do that.

Bob T


Edited by bturg 2/6/2010 5:34 PM