There's more money (and fun, if you ask me) in RP trade convoys or ambassador missions or what have you in omicron minor (heh). Granted, especially with the USI, pirates are a big part of the experience, and sometimes it's even more enjoyable because of a good -long- pirating session.
But I will never support the guys who pirate to make money. Sure you should come out ahead of the game, but never to profit and make bank.