Hello Icehunter.
Sorry for the late reply but been out pre-fishing.
I have fished the Open as an AM since it started and consider my self a professional-AMATEUR. I love it!
To answer your questions asked here;
Although most Pro's will not ask for help with gas, I always ensure I have money to offer and insist it's taken. They spend a lot of money on gas; pre-fishing and the day you're with them so like and am happy to pay and usually ask with a "so, what do you think we would have used in gas?" then give them at least 1/2. Saves the uncomfortable "can I help you with gas?!?" question I hate.
As for food...at the mandatory meeting before the event, I'll meet all my Pro's and ask then. Most say no or "sure but I don't eat when in a tournament!" Anyone that knows me, understands that I love to cook and prepare food things so I used to make crazy sandwiches. After the first couple of events as an AM, I realized changing lines, gear bags and add to that prepping food, the latter was something easily taken care of by Subway the night before. Also then, when I do ask, it's "what type of sub can I get you?" Makes it a lot easier.
My first event caused a lot of undue stress not knowing what to do, expect etc. I quickly learned the ropes; hopefully anyways, and am very happy to answer any questions you may have. So please ask anything thru this topic (maybe others have questions too) or pm and hopefully I can assist.
Cheers,
Paul