When you hear "fishing boat charter," you might imagine a tight-knit community of regulars. But in reality, first-timers often end up on the same boat together.
In this article, I'll share my experience using PicTomo to share photos with complete strangers on a fishing boat.
It Started with "Let's Take Photos of Each Other's Catches"
It was my first time deep-sea fishing. Everyone around me was a stranger. I was nervous at first, but once the fish started biting, conversation flowed naturally.
"Nice catch! Want me to take a photo?"
From exchanges like this, we started photographing each other's catches. I thought it would be fun if everyone could share photos, so I created a PicTomo album and shared the QR code.
Tips for Sharing QR Codes on a Boat
- Just show your phone screen: No need to print anything
- Works with spotty signal: Once scanned, you can upload later
- No app required: Easy for strangers to join immediately
The Variety of Photos Was Surprising
By the time fishing was over, we had collected far more diverse photos than I expected.
1. Action Shots
The tension when a fish bites, the joy of reeling it in. Other participants captured "in-action" shots I couldn't take myself.
2. Trophy Photos
Commemorative photos with big catches. Even strangers got into it: "Hold it this way!" "Get closer!" It turned into a fun impromptu photo session.
3. Filleting Photos
Back at the harbor, the captain and experienced anglers taught us how to fillet the fish. We captured that too. For beginners, these serve as helpful reference photos later.
4. Home Cooking Photos
After returning home, everyone uploaded photos of their cooking. Sashimi, simmered fish, fried fish, fish paste... It was fascinating to see how differently everyone prepared the same fish!
"We made fried fish!" "The sashimi was incredibly fatty and delicious!" People even started exchanging recipes in the comments.
A Surprise from the Captain Days Later
A few days after the trip, a new photo appeared in the album.
It was from the captain: "Someone left this on the boat. Please contact us if it's yours" - with a photo of the lost item.
It was actually my hat! Thanks to the captain notifying us through the album, I got it back.
Staying Connected Without Exchanging Contact Info
Exchanging LINE contacts or phone numbers with strangers can feel awkward. But with PicTomo, you can stay "loosely connected" through the album.
- No need to exchange personal contact information
- Photos create natural opportunities for communication
- Additional uploads possible even days later
Benefits of Fishing Boat + PicTomo
Easy to Bond Even with Strangers
Conversations like "Want me to take a photo?" and "Nice catch!" naturally break the ice. Sharing a common experience quickly dissolves barriers between strangers.
Document the Entire Fishing Journey
| Moment | What You Can Capture |
|---|---|
| Before departure | Harbor scenery, boat photos, sunrise |
| While fishing | Action shots, catches, ocean views |
| Back at harbor | Filleting lessons, group photos |
| At home | Cooking process, finished dishes |
| Days later | Lost item notices, sharing thoughts |
Motivation for the Next Trip
Every time you look back at the album, the fun memories come flooding back. "I want to go again" becomes a natural feeling.
Practical Tips
Best Time to Create the Album
Before boarding or when the first fish is caught is ideal. Try saying "Want to share photos together?"
Recommended Settings
- Preset: "Standard" (24 hours/100 photos) is usually enough
- Password: Not necessary (it's a one-time share)
- Expiry: Extend if needed ($1 for 10 additional hours)
How to Invite Others
"There's this photo sharing site - want to use it? No app download or registration needed."
Mentioning it's app-free and registration-free makes strangers more willing to join.
Summary
Encounters on a fishing boat are often once-in-a-lifetime. But with PicTomo, you can preserve those fleeting meetings through photos.
The joy of catching a fish, learning how to fillet it, the satisfaction of cooking at home. And the captain's kindness in reporting a lost item.
Sharing common experiences with strangers creates a surprising sense of connection. On your next fishing trip, give PicTomo a try for photo sharing.