Pontoon Beaching

[scott&kellie]

I've been wanting to take my 16 yro son out to Capers Island to go camping. I usually kayak out there but it's a little rough most times and it's a 7 mile paddle. I would hate to get 75% of the way out there and he turns and tells me he cant make it. so I thought of taking my toon out there and beaching it for the weekend. any thoughts on the anchor buddy system? I'd be anchoring in an inlet where the tide would be coming and going (salt water). I thought of beaching it on the point where the tide or waves aren't as bad. it's a longer hike with the camping gear (and beer) but the weekend with my son out there would only create good memories for the both of us. any thoughts on beaching a toon, how far out do you let it drift out (do or don't), beach it bow or stern into the beach, etc, any info and suggestions is appreciated. thanks in advance.

Scott

 

[The Rooster]

Re: Pontoon Beaching

If we're talking sandy/muddy beach, just stick the nose up there Scott. A couple of lines from each bow cleat around some trees or something similar. Maybe an anchor off the stern as long as you're not talking about a major 3'-5'+ tidal range. Good luck !!!

 

[lncoop]

Re: Pontoon Beaching

+1. That's how we've always done it when island camping. Keep in mind we don't have tides on lake Ouachita. Alternatively, if you're not comfy leaving her right where you'll camp you could beach her there long enough to unload then move her. Glad you're planning to do that. That's where barges shine. Fun stuff.

 

[coastalrichard]

Re: Pontoon Beaching

I don't like to beach my boat if I can avoid it, especially in tidal areas. I prefer three anchors: one on each stern cleat set at 45* and the third buried onshore (trees are ok too). This eliminates the chance of the tide going out and puttin you out of commission til it returns.

 

[MinUph]

Re: Pontoon Beaching

Interesting conversation.
I've been leery of beaching the barge but I see its OK to do so. I have been aground at the beach but I didn't beach it. Now I probably will. I watch the tides pretty well so I can plan for that.

 

[Big Bubba]

Re: Pontoon Beaching

MinUph,
Yeah I beach mine all of the time without any issues to the toons. You just don't want to beach the toons against any rocks becuase they will damage your toons. Just make sure that when you beach it there is no rocks or stumps just soft sandy shoreline. Take care.

 

[scott&kellie]

Re: Pontoon Beaching

Thanks everyone for the feedback. I stopped off at West Marine today to pick u a Anchor Buddy but they didnt have them in stock. online is my best friend. thanks again... I wont be going out to Capers Island till next weekend but if it works out and i take my toon, i'll be sure to post pics.

scott