Q:

Capt. Dave,
Do you have any information on becoming a charter captain on Erie?

A:

Potential Captain,

A few elements needed to become a charter captain: commitment, time, money, and an understanding spouse.

To get your Merchant Mariners Document; you must first contact the U.S.C.G. for an application form. It can be downloaded from the internet at: http://www.uscg.mil/STCW/m-pers.htm

The U.S.C.G. will notify you of your eligibility for either the OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel License) or Masters License. Then are two ways to take the test.

The first is by what I call "the three day wonder." Numerous companies are approved to administer the test. Most can be found on the internet. In addition, they will also do most of the leg work for you. Such as obtaining the correct forms, CPR and first aid test, and training materials. These companies charge a fee (usually around $1,000) and cram you for three or four days. After which, you take this test. Little is learned, but most people generally pass. And if you don't, they allow you to retake the course until you pass.

The other way is take the test on your own. By studying, it can be done. But this is where an understanding spouse helps. The test is hard. I would recommend that you spend at least six months preparing for the test and having someone quiz you at every possible moment.

The U.S.C.G. will assist in locating a test center near you. I took my test in Toledo, Ohio and found that the U.S.C.G. was very helpful in both scheduling and administering the test.

The test consists of four parts covering five subjects:

Good Fishing,
Capt. Dave Adams

Salmon Recipes