Boaty had many curious sayings recorded of him.

When speaking of the gentry around, he characterised them according to their occupations and activity of habits--thus:--"As to Mr.Russell of Blackha', he just works himsell like a paid labourer; Mr.Duncan's a' the day fish, fish; but Sir Robert's a perfect gentleman--he does naething, naething." Boaty was a first-rate salmon-fisher himself, and was much sought after by amateurs who came to Banchory for the sake of the sport afforded by the beautiful Dee.

He was, perhaps, a little spoiled, and presumed upon the indulgence and familiarity shown to him in the way of his craft--as, for example, he was in attendance with his boat on a sportsman who was both skilful and successful, for he caught salmon after salmon.

Between each fish catching he solaced himself with a good pull from a flask, which he returned to his pocket, however, without offering to let Boaty have any participation in the refreshment.
Boaty, partly a little professionally jealous, perhaps, at the success, and partly indignant at receiving less than his usual attention on such occasions, and seeing no prospect of amendment, deliberately pulled the boat to shore, shouldered the oars, rods, landing-nets, and all the fishing apparatus which he had provided, and set off homewards.

His companion, far from considering his day's work to be over, and keen for more sport, was amazed, and peremptorily ordered him to come back.