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Boat Ramp and Fishing Courtesy
by Capt. Jerry Sloan
www.tomandjerrys.net

This is a long over looked issue that may help prevent water rage instead of road rage. Several steps in launching and loading boats need to be followed in order to decrease the time it takes to make room for the next boater. Some people have all the time in the world to fish, but others have very limited chances, so bear in mind that no one wants to sit on a ramp while someone can’t figure out how to load or unload his or her boat. Here are a few tips that will make anyone look like a pro.

BOAT RAMP COURTESY

1. PREPARATION
   First there are staging lanes at most boat ramps. This, for those who may not know, is a place to completely ready your boat before entering the actual ramp.
2. CHECK LIST
   Safety equipment, lights, tackle, coolers, and of coarse the PLUG.
3. METHODS
   The easiest way to unload or load a boat is the buddy system.
   • Attach a bow line with plenty of rope for one person to stand on dock and control the boat while the other backs the trailer in, floating the boat off.
   • Have a person in the boat that can control it while your partner backs the trailer in . Both methods allow the driver to clear the ramp quickly for the next launch.
4. CLEAR RAMP
   Promptly remove your vessel from the dock or ramp area as soon as possible .
5. RETURNING
   •Have all your equipment stored or secured before entering the loading ramp.
   •Park the boat out of the way of others while getting your trailer backed into the water.
   •Learn the proper depth that your boat will load most easily so you will be able to drive on to your trailer.
6. REMOVE
   Secure all winches and safeties. Pull completely out of the ramping area to secure the remainder of your equipment.
7. HELP
   If you are alone, don't hesitate to ask for help . Most boaters will be glad to assist you in anything from trailer backing to rope holding.

FISHING COURTESY: HERE IS A CAN OF WORMS THAT A LOT OF FISHERMAN ARE NOT GOING TO LIKE.

1st--The latest method of locating fish seems to be to look for boats that have already done the work in finding the fish. The art of locating fish is what separates most fishermen from boat drivers. Have respect for a boater who has found his or her fish and DO NOT enter where you can cast to the same fish he is working without being invited.

2nd–Remember, when boats are at anchor, to give them at least a couple of casting distances if possible. Channels and tight spots excepted, but if they are there first, keep moving.

3rd--A) Safety should always be on the top of every angler’s list. B) Boaters need to keep wide paths between each other at high or low speeds. C) Never run by GPS instead of visual site. You’re not the only person out there. Go to idle speed or slow enough to stop before disaster.(wake up!) D) Learn what navigational signs mean and obey them.

4th--Tournament fishermen or anyone competing for money need to realize that it does not give them the right of way on the water. It's become big bucks but should not be taken as the right to try and fish over the top of weekend anglers or anyone else in the legal pursuit of game fish. We all put our pants on one leg at a time.

5th--When a boat is working a shore line or trolling in a general direction, it’s courteous to not run in and set up right in front of them. Allow a decent distance before entering another's path.

A LITTLE PERSONAL INPUT

Through the years we have seen a great deal of growth in the fishing industry, but there is still room for everyone who wants to enjoy the sport. Why not make it somewhat like it used to be before things turned into money and dog eat dog? Fishing is still the most fun a person can have so lets be courtesy to each other no mater what our reason for fishing.

As a professional guide we are required to have captain license. I personally have an Inland Masters Mate Near Coastal. This will teach a lot of rules of the road and do's and don'ts of boating, but the biggest things to remember are not to do things to others you wouldn't like done to you.

PS. BE SAFE---BE COURTEOUS---BE GOOD AT IT!!!!

THANK YOU,
CAPTAIN SLOAN