safetyWhen I saw that I pulledthe coveted “WritersChoice” slot for myassignment this month, Iwas busy trying to keepa small boat right-sideup during our recent“Bomb Cyclone “(Yes, I wasmessing with my phone).I got to thinking, that if Isurvive the next couple ofhours, a piece on heavyweather boating may be inorder.First, if the weather isquestionable, don’t go. Nofish is worth losing yourboat or even your life for.Before any recreationalboating trip, check theweather forecast and planaccordingly. Even if thatmeans stopping at SkagitSeafoods to buy your nextmeal's main course. In thelong run, it would be muchcheaper than trying to runinto conditions beyond thecapability of your boat.In my case, it’s my job, andmy options are limited. I’mretired from a 38-year suitand tie gig but I couldn’tdo retired life. Now I run amailboat in the San JuanIslands, and unless I can’tget the boat out of the slip,the mail must go through.In addition to first-classmail, I also deliver freight,packages, time-sensitiveprescriptions, perishableitems, and other necessitiesfor landlocked islanders.I recognize that sometimesthe weather just happens,going from a bit of a chopto holy crap in minutes.Here are a few thoughts onpreparations and handlingemergency situations onthe water.As mentioned earlier, checkthe weather forecast ormaybe try an app such asWindy to make sure theconditions will be safe foryour planned adventure.Remember, if you’requestioning your ability toget to your fishing spot andback, the fishing will beuncomfortable at best.Make sure you have thecorrect size PFDs (personalflotation device) for eachpassenger onboard. Itis also a good idea toconduct a VHF radio checkand carry a fully chargedcellphone.
It seems that your browser's pop-up blocker has prevented us from opening a new window/tab. Please click the button below to open the link manually.
