Why the family discount?

[tooski]

PhishphearBrowns brought up a good point on weight not long ago. How arbitrary is #100 per man when each persons weight is so variable? Some outfitters are now saying #300 total person and gear which makes more sense.
My question is why do they offer such a huge discount for kids under 16? I have seen it as high as $300 difference. Why? Maybe there family is different then mine but my kids were MUCH more destructive at 15 then they are now when in there 20's. I don't get it.

[nemusky]

It makes it more feasible for families to afford the vacation.

[Slushfish]

NEMUSKY Is right. Our guys trip costs $2400. Split four ways equals $600 apiece. Our family trip costs $2400 split one way equals $2400. Much more expensive. Outfitters know if all the cash is coming out of the same pocket, it hurts alot more. Bottom line is, they need to book as many guests as possible.
Slushfish

[tooski]

So now that my sons are in their 20's they are no longer family? If they truly needed more bookings they could extend the family criteria. Why does it cost more to fly in a 20 year old.

[solopaddler]

Exposing young kids to fishing and the outdoors is always a good thing and I suspect many outfitters feel the same way Joe.

I'd imagine many young families would find it impossible to bring their kids along if they were paying full shot.

[adempsey]

Typically the parents don't pay for their 20 year old kids vacation. It's all about affordability.

[tooski]

Apparently I did not make myself clear. I am not opposed to the practice at all. I have been taking my sons since the youngest was 6. I think it is more than great. I just don't get the financial end. Perhaps Solo is right in that many outfitters simply bite the bullet to encourage family trips. I know Parks did for us this year. At any rate thanks for the replies, I guess it is a bit clearer now.....

[v-bay gord]

The bottom line is the outfitter deserves to make a living too....but, I agree, it would be nice if everything was free

[BrianinVA]

A lot of the family package deals I see are for slower fishing periods, typically in August, when there is a greater chance the cabins being vacant without some sort of incentive. A family with kids under 16 will only require 1 boat between them. I don't think you and 3 buddies are going to jam into a 15 foot boat and go fishing for a week. Chances are, a family will also probably be on the water less and consume less fuel and put less wear and tear on the boats and motors.

If it means giving a discount to get a youngster hooked on fishing at a earily age is an investment for the future. They'll want to return as an adult when the outfitter can make up for the discount. The younger generation is the future income of all outfitters who plan on staying in the buissness.