New Boater

[joelovesfishin]

I just bought a Sea Pro SV2100CC Bay Boat and I plan on doing some offshore (Not that far offshore) fishing with the boat and don't have any experience.

1. What electronic equipment do you guys recommend go onto a boat?
2. Besides the basic safety equipment, are there any other items I should also carry.
3. Any other information that would be useful for a new boater would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Joe

[Jumper 2505]

1. Don't go offshore being a cherry boater.

2. Take a boating safety class.

3. Keep your feet and knees together.

[vinny f]

as jumper said get a saftey course under your belt.try the u.s. power squadron in your area.they offer courses from novice to captain.its a good course to take and then when you know it all in a couple of years take again as a refresher course

[Capt. Dan]

Make sure you review this post before considering a run offshore

http://thehulltruth.com/6/ubb.x?a=tp...1&m=6886033203

Congrats on the new boat!!

[strikerthree]

one piece of advise pick your day to go make sure its like glass and always keep your vhf on the weather band and listen for the updates

[tidester]

Looks like you are off to a good start. At least you are looking before you leap!

Take the boating safety class. You'll learn to see a few things with a different perspective - a perspective that may save your skin one day. You'll also meet fellow boaters and may end up with a fishing buddy or two out of the deal.

Once you start venturing out, pick your days. Be keenly aware of tide and weather patterns. Stick close to the inlet until you are very comfortable with the ways Mother Nature changes throughout the day and the seasons.

Get a waterproof VHF, and by all means, don't skimp on the safety equipment. If you can't swim faster than the tide, in rough water, keep a type I PFD within easy reach, or wear it!

You'll learn a lot in a boating ed course. Go for it!

[Garett]

What you want to buy is:

* A 6ml. wetsuit in Red, yellow or orange.

* The best and biggest damm PFD that fits proper in red, yellow or orange.

* A top quality EPIRB, fully charged.

- Now strip down the boat of everything that cost money and doesn't effect the operation of the boat.
- Now you're ready for your sea trials.
- You want to pick a day when the rollers are breaking 10' high plus off your local beach. But, before you go out:

* Have a good lunch.

* Drink plenty of fluids.

* Kiss your loved ones and feed the dog.

* Put the items on that you bought and strap the EPIRB to your chest.

Now you're ready for your sea trials - in the surf, off of that beach.
You say, "what are you crazy? The boat will sink!"
Well, at least you will be warm, you will float, you will emit a signal to be found, you are feed and well hydrated, you have basically said your last goodbyes, the dog should be fine for several days and your insurance is all paid up, if any thing should go amiss.

WELL, THAT'S WHAT THESE GUYS ARE SAYING!!!!!!! Get the picture.

Once bitten, twice shy

[joelovesfishin]

Hey Guys,

Thanks for the helpful advice. Glad to see we have a few funny guys in the group.

So from what I can gather;

1. Good PFD
2. Good Radio
3. Good Weather

And don't ever go offshore!

[MrPat]

Do you have a buddy with a boat that fishes off shore? Go with your buddy and then invite your buddy to go with you after you have some experience. No buddy with a boat. Charter a boat and pick the mates brain. Or hire a mate to show you the ropes. After you take the basic boating courses, you will need to learn fishing in your area.

[Capt. Dan]

Joe,
Not trying to scare you, just reminding you to be careful and prepared.
Have fun!!

[fmTuna]

Number one you have already done... drop the macho and be afraid enough to ask lots of questions....

the rest of the advice so far is right on the money...here is one more thing.. a 21' boat, no matter who makes it, is not an offshore boat. If the weather is perfect...perfect, according to someone that knows what to look for (and that may not necessarily be you)find an experienced friend at your dock that will buddy-up and run near offshore with you.. you take your boat, he takes his, and stay within eyeshot.... grab a channel on your vhf and ask every question that comes to mind while you are out there..... do this about 10 times, and you may be ready to take a solo run...

Another thing... I would never run offshore without radar... some disagree... but I got fogged in 18 miles out when I was about 20 (a long time ago) and never forgot the feeling of flying blind...

[bruceap]

That's a pretty broad statement. Granted, You have to use your head. But come on, I've been at this a long time, I fished a 19.6 Aquasport offshore for 15 years before I got my 21' and did quite well. I believe if you don't use your head even a 26' (see "this could happen to you") won't keep you out of trouble. Perhaps offshore is a relative term here. I usually stay inside 40 miles out.

Know your limits and make safety a priority.

Bruce

Parker 21SE, 200 Evinrude

[SlackTide]

All above sounds right on.Saftey ! I've done 22 miles easy in My 20' Seacraft,They used to be the Bahama runners.Only thing I can sea of concern is a Bay Boat.?.Not much gunnel/freeboard.Pick the weather & leave a FLOAT plan.No matter where Ya go relax & enjoy Her.Thats why We do it !!
Don't let a bad Day on the water p' Ya off cause its better than Your best Day at Work!!
Scream'n Reels'