Maiden Voyage

[motorman007]

Hello, what do I need on my boat for my first Maiden Voyage on Sunday, I plan to fish alittle bit, so far I have 6 life jackets,radio,anchor,fenders,fire extinguisher,throw cushion,rope,horn,gps/fishfinder,first aide kit,2 paddles,also camera so I can show you all the boat.

[John Jones]

http://www.boatus.org/onlinecourse/default.asp

[seabob4]

Hello, what do I need on my boat for my first Maiden Voyage on Sunday, I plan to fish alittle bit, so far I have 6 life jackets,radio,anchor,fenders,fire extinguisher,throw cushion,rope,horn,gps/fishfinder,first aide kit,2 paddles,also camera so I can show you all the boat.

A tool kit with the basics, as well as some electrical terminals, some electrical tape, some wire (doesn't matter what color), in other words, what you need to perform the minor repairs should a problem arise.  And by all means, regardless of your destination and proximity to land, file a float plan with someone you know and trust.  Estimated time of departure, intended destination, estimated time of arrival back at the ramp or in port.  You never know, but should something go wrong, that info gives the LEOs a big head start in locating you and your passengers...

Now that all the doom and gloom is out of the way, HAVE FUN!!!  And definitely pics!!

[motorman007]

I forgot I also have towing and service on the water, looks like it is going to be 80 degrees on Sunday

[pete]

make sure you batteries are in good shape and fully charged,if you have a load tester use it to see if they will hold a charge

http://www.harborfreight.com/automotive ... 90636.html

Have fun,Pete

[slvrlng]

Be sure to crank your motor at the house on the muffs before you go to the ramp, makes it a lot easier when you get there. Like they already said, HAVE A GOOD TIME!

[seabob4]

Isn't it "interesting" how we all tend to focus on the negative...yet the focus is so important given the magnitude of the power of Mother Nature...

Just a thought...

[Glock Diver]

Be sure to crank your motor at the house on the muffs before you go to the ramp, makes it a lot easier when you get there. Like they already said, HAVE A GOOD TIME!

Amen to that.  Very good advice, and I try to do it every time I go out.  These older 2-cycles can be sometimes be tempremental, and there's nothing like holding up 10 other boaters ready to launch while you're cranking your motor!  


Sounds like you're well prepared with the safety equipment.  I recently put together a "ditch bag", with some backup stuff, like a handheld VHF, flares, whistle, signal mirror, water, waterproof flashlight, power bars, sunscreen, etc...  Just a little extra peace of mind, should the unthinkable happen.

[damnitbadger]

I always crank the boat at the house so there are no surprises at the ramp. Post some pictures of those maidens now!