Ive never fished with them,,,but Ive heard both good and bad reports about them too. Im not much into the bottom bouncing scene anymore,,gave it up after our last boat was sold.U sed to fish the spring and sell cod to pay for fuel for the rest of the fishing season.How far out did they take you?at 8kts,,,it doesnt sound like they took you very far. Headed to the Vineyard today,see if the schooolies are there yet.Good luck with your letter to Yankee Fleet,,,maybe they' ll give you a break on the next trip.