Mike, I agree with you totally. Hope I didn’t sound flippant. I was more or less making an observation, similar to yours, that a lot of people get to the salt for the first few times and may have a false belief that “any” guide with a boat will do. There is so much more involved. I pay good money for guides and reserve recurring annual dates to fish because if you get a good one they will certainly put you on fish (not catching them is my fault). However, if I had my own boat and experience like you I think that a dyi trip would be a great way to go – that’s what I meant by every fish is money saved, or at least money earned.
I do have the ability the help you out with some spots in the area you are going. PM me your dates and location and I can ask some questions.
Sorry Cameron, didn’t mean to hijack your post.