Question for USCG Captains

[Meskin255]

Ok, I have a questions about obtaining a captain's license (for small craft). I have long dreamed of someday owning my own fishing charter business, even if only for inland lakes, or the bay....or wherever for that matter. I have been looking online trying to find information on what steps I have to take to make this happen, and I have a few questions about those.

First is, when you have to have so many hours documented on a boat, is this something you just do on your own, or do I have to have a licensed person with me to document this information? Are there specifics as to where these hours have to be acquired at...i.e big water, or would local lakes work as well?

Second I have seen there are safety classes such as CPR and such you have to take, is there anything else that might be suggested to take as well, like boater safety classes, or something specific to the license that might help as well?

Thanks in advance to anyone that can help me along with trying to make my dream a reality. Feel free to PM me with any information if you prefer.

Thanks again,
Keith

[sullyxlh]

http://www.michigan-sportsman.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=108

[Meskin255]

http://www.michigan-sportsman.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=108

Thanks, I did not even know that was there!

[wartfroggy]

Ok, I have a questions about obtaining a captain's license (for small craft). I have long dreamed of someday owning my own fishing charter business, even if only for inland lakes, or the bay....or wherever for that matter. I have been looking online trying to find information on what steps I have to take to make this happen, and I have a few questions about those.

First is, when you have to have so many hours documented on a boat, is this something you just do on your own, or do I have to have a licensed person with me to document this information? Are there specifics as to where these hours have to be acquired at...i.e big water, or would local lakes work as well?

Second I have seen there are safety classes such as CPR and such you have to take, is there anything else that might be suggested to take as well, like boater safety classes, or something specific to the license that might help as well?

Thanks in advance to anyone that can help me along with trying to make my dream a reality. Feel free to PM me with any information if you prefer.

Thanks again,
Keith


There are several licensing services in the state, they can answer all of your questions if you call. As far as the questions you asked, yes you can document your own time on the water. If you test for a 100 Gross Ton license, and only have time on a 17' boat, expect a 25 GT license. If you have most of your time on a larger, 30'+ boat, you could get a 50 GT. As far as safety classes, yes you need first aid and CPR. Don't take them too far ahead of when you will send in your application, as there are time requirements. Most licensing services also provide the first aid and CPR classes onsite. You can also do a study at home deal, and go to the USCG office in Toledo to test, but most find it easier (but more expensive) to study and test with a licensing service. I went through Great Lakes Charter out of Harrison Township 7 years ago and was very happy with them. Took the class in GR on weekends, and tested in Harrison Township. There are others that travel also, but I don't know much about them.

[Cedar River FinAddict]

You'll also need to apply and obtain a TWIC card, get a physical, and enroll in a random drug screening program. As of 4/15 you can't apply for your license without a TWIC. Expect a 4-5 week wait for the TWIC and a then a 6 week wait for your license.

[Chromedoggy]

You'll also need to apply and obtain a TWIC card, get a physical, and enroll in a random drug screening program. As of 4/15 you can't apply for your license without a TWIC. Expect a 4-5 week wait for the TWIC and a then a 6 week wait for your license.

The receipt for the TWIC being applied for is supposed to be sufficient, saves a little time.

[Meskin255]

You'll also need to apply and obtain a TWIC card, get a physical, and enroll in a random drug screening program. As of 4/15 you can't apply for your license without a TWIC. Expect a 4-5 week wait for the TWIC and a then a 6 week wait for your license.

What is a TWIC card?

I really appreciate all the information!

[Chromedoggy]

Transportation Workers Identification Card. Longshoreman, Truckers, Freight Handlers, Merchant Marines, Airport, anyone working near borders or incoming and outgoing people and goods. It is another form of identification with a background check (with fingerprints). You can find more info with a google, it will take you to Dept of Homeland Security where you pre-apply.

[Meskin255]

Transportation Workers Identification Card. Longshoreman, Truckers, Freight Handlers, Merchant Marines, Airport, anyone working near borders or incoming and outgoing people and goods. It is another form of identification with a background check (with fingerprints). You can find more info with a google, it will take you to Dept of Homeland Security where you pre-apply.

Thanks for the info, I'll look it up!