First boat and need some tips

[ken_in_TN]

Hi all, Let me start out by saying that this forem is AWESOME !!!! I have been lurking here for about 3 weeks now and the info provided has been great.<br /><br />Now for some questions:<br />I have a 17'8'' Fish ski boat and want to start tubing and skiing with it, but I do not have a ski pole attatched. I have been looking around and I've seen a rope that you can attatch to your rear cleats that form a "V" behind your outboard, BUT the lenth I've seen is only 8 feet. That does not seem long enough to stay behind the outboard without rubbing the case of the moter. Any help there? Also, this being my first boat, and never having skied or tubed before, any advice you can give would be great. I've been looking on the web for some instructional sites, but no luck. I've had no problems fishing/towing/trailering, but I sure would like some help with the ski part.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: First boat and need some tips

That is the "usual" harness length. This will allow a center pull on the rear of the boat just behind the motor. Yes, it appears tight but is should not contact the motor. Does your boat have a jack plate or extended transom? If it does you might have to get lengths of rope to extend the harness...otherwise you will be okay.<br /><br />Bob

 

[crab bait]

Re: First boat and need some tips

one very importain tip..... install a rear view mirrow so the pilot can have constant visiual of the skier.... can be a removeable clamp- on

 

[blifsey]

Re: First boat and need some tips

Also, check your state regs...Some states require a "spotter" to be in the boat also.<br /><br />I've got a 17'-6" F&S with a Merc 150. I use similar harness and motor doesn't touch when pulling and under tension. I want to add a ski pylon but haven't yet. My biggest problem with harness was finding best way to thread through the foldup ladder so it doesn't put pressure on it. Check that closely first few times out. Also, be sure to lock your ladder up before taking off. 'Course I didn't do that, I just saw someone else do it .<br /><br />Have a blast!<br /><br />BL...

 

[MGuckin]

Re: First boat and need some tips

Common sense requires a spotter.

 

[Homerr]

Re: First boat and need some tips

Yes, Kudos on a spotter!<br /><br />I've instructed my whole family to spot whomever is being pulled. <br /><br />You can never have too many eyes. Especially if the lake is busy.<br /><br />Mirrors are OK, but it doesn't beat eyeballs.<br /><br />The driver needs to concentrate on driving and NOT the mirror.<br /><br />H.