wrote
Yes, I've been using guides lately that own their own business - boats,
website, set their prices, etc. On a Kona trip the captain asked if
their were enough capable strong bodies in my party to handle a large
fish. He decided *not* to hire a deck hand - who I would have tipped.


If the price stayed the same when he decided to not hire a deck hand, then
he is already tipping himself. If the trip will be cheaper because of it,
then you might consider that. Either way, if the service is good, I would
tip.

Lee D