It is customary to tip your fishing charter or fishing guide.
No different than a waiter, bartender, or hairstylist, gratuities are appropriate for good service. Gratuities are how you show appreciation for all the work and effort that your captain or guide has done to give you a great experience.
Similar to other service providers, gratuity ranges from 15% to 25%. The better the service and effort provided, the bigger the tip. Many people think the tip is based on the fish that you catch. That is not the way to handle it. Instead, base it on the effort and attitude of the crew or guide. They should try hard to get some action when the fishing is slow. That means changing up the bait and techniques or targeting other species.
Good service means that the captain, crew, or guide has put a lot of effort into ensuring you and your group have a great experience. They provide a clean and well-maintained boat, and are prepared with various bait and gear for fishing that day, regardless of the conditions. They frequently check the lines to ensure they are not tangled or full of seaweed. Great captains and guides handle the fishing and offer you fishing tips so you can learn about fishing on Grand Cayman. They will clean and fillet your catch if you want it for dinner. Beyond fishing, they can talk to you about the island, the culture, the restaurants, and the attractions. Their personalities should shine.
As one charter captain puts it “gratuities are not expected but always appreciated!”
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