What do I need heading out for first time?

[Jkenney9]

I have my boat and now need a list of everything necessary to safely boat. I have an anchor, GPS/Fish finder, stereo, boat, motor and trailer. What else besides a porta potty, fire extinguisher and lines do I need ?

 

[bruceb58]

Re: What do I need heading out for first time?

Flares, tools, fenders.


Beer!

 

[cpubud]

Re: What do I need heading out for first time?

the list is almost endless but start with a good boaters course

 

[QC]

Re: What do I need heading out for first time?

Spare Prop
Buckets are good. You can store lines etc in there too
PFDs
Charged battery

Edit: Adding to Bruce's list.

 

[pikefisherman]

Re: What do I need heading out for first time?

Have you taken a boating class?
They would be helpful as far as what kind of boating you will encounter in your area. Were I boat you would be OK in a canoe most of the time.At other places its a lot different, enjoy!!!!!!

 

[Jkenney9]

Re: What do I need heading out for first time?

Great feedback! I am signing up for a boaters course. Also I am trying to figure out what tools I will need to include? Also if my boat can hold 8 people should I carry 8 adult PFDs (I have 3 kids)?

 

[QC]

Re: What do I need heading out for first time?

I like to be over on PFDs in case someone wants a ride, but you only are required to carry one properly sized PFD per passenger PLUS a "throwable". Check your state's laws though, there could be something we are all missing just for you

 

[mippel]

Re: What do I need heading out for first time?

Great feedback! I am signing up for a boaters course. Also I am trying to figure out what tools I will need to include? Also if my boat can hold 8 people should I carry 8 adult PFDs (I have 3 kids)?

I would say that the PFDs for the kids should fit correctly. Also that they should wear them. In MN, they are required for anyone under 10, and i would agree with that.

 

[airshot]

Re: What do I need heading out for first time?

Yep...here in Ohio the PFD must match in size to the person it is intended for, so kid pfd's for kids, adult pfd's for adults, and infant pfd's if any infants are going to be onboard. Also if you have a boating friend that has experience and familiar with the area you are boating in take them along for your first outing. You will be quite surprised at how different things look from the water when compared to land.
Do your self a favor and go to a vacant parking lot and learn to back up your trailer, go over all things with any helpers you may have along as far as their duties when launching and retrieving your boat. Remember things may not go well on your first couple outings so be patient and learn from your mistakes, above all do NOT be in a hurry, take your time and try to do things correctly. Good luck and enjoy!

Airshot

 

[bruceb58]

Re: What do I need heading out for first time?

Don't forget the keys to the ignition!

My dad did this when I was a kid and he blamed everyone of us for not reminding him!

Oh...and also the drain plug!

 

[SWD]

Re: What do I need heading out for first time?

the list is almost endless but start with a good boaters course

I second that!