Joel Nelson gives us his best tips to make sure you practice proper boat ramp etiquette this summer.
Practicing Proper Boat Ramp Etiquette
Thousands of boaters launch their watercraft each year in lakes, rivers and reservoirs across the United States and Canada. While some people have many decades of experience launching their boats, others are relatively new to the boat ramps. This article will give beginners a how to guide for proper boat ramp etiquette and will be a refresher for seasoned veterans.
Remember that the most important thing while launching a boat is the safety of everyone at the boat ramp. The next most important component is to be efficient so that you’re not costing yourself or other’s time. Following these steps will get you on the water quicker and will allow you to spend more time chasing walleye, bass, and panfish.
Pre-Launch Gear
Step one is to make sure your boat is prepared and ready to be launched. This process typically starts the night before by ensuring that your boat is full of gas, batteries are charged and your fishing gear and proper safety equipment is packed in the boat. The first step of the pre-launch boat ramp etiquette is ensuring that you have everything you need to launch before you pull into the ramp lane.
Once you have pulled into the boat ramp, find an empty parking spot or pull to the side of the launch. The next step is to remove anything from your vehicle that you may need in your boat. This might include food, water, bug spray and sunscreen. This allows you to gather what you need for the day, while not blocking the ramp lane from others who are ready to launch.
The next step is preparing your boat for launching. This includes the following:
- Trimming up your motor
- Taking your cargo or ratchet straps off
- Checking your boat and trailer for aquatic invasive species including zebra muscles and milfoil
- Double checking that your plugs are in and ready to go
Launching Your Boat
Once the boat is ready to go, it is time to get your boat in the water. As you pull up to the ramp do your best to get the trailer straight from. It’s a lot easier to get it straight initially than it is to correct it while backing up. Not everyone is going to get it perfect the first time backing up and other boaters will understand that. With that being said, do your best to be efficient with this process. If you find yourself struggling with this step, it might be helpful to practice when the ramps are less busy on week nights or during the off season. Remember to use your mirrors and avoid sharp turns or overcorrecting.
Boat Ramp Etiquette: Unloading The Boat and Parking
Once you have the boat successfully in the water, be prepared with a rope to tie off the boat to the opposite side of the dock. This will leave the ramp open for others to use while you are parking the vehicle. Even if you don’t see anyone else waiting, it’s important to do this as you don’t know when another boater will show up. If you are alone, you will want to work as quickly as possible to get the boat tied up and out of the way. When fishing with another angler, they can be in the boat when you back it up and can drive it out into open water while you are parking the trailer. This will both save you time and make it more efficient for everyone using the ramp.
Parking: Boat ramp etiquette doesn’t just end after the boat is in the water, practicing proper parking is important as well. Make sure you park in between the lines, that way on those busy days every spot can be used. Double check that your trailer is not protruding out of your parking so boaters can navigate the parking lot with ease.
Reminder: It might not be your first time launching, but it could be someone else’s. Make sure you’re respectful to others and don’t be afraid to lend a helping hand. This also applies for if you’re struggling. Whether it is windy day or gear isn’t working properly, never be afraid to ask for help.
Invasive Species
It is now more important than ever to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species. You can do this by double checking that all water is drained out of the bottom of your boat and live wells before launching. It’s important to make sure that your trailer is also clear of all aquatic vegetation. This process should be repeated after taking your boat out of the water as well.
Remember to do this off to the side where you’re not blocking anybody trying to launch or park. This is the law and the DNR does enforce it, so make sure you always follow the proper procedures. This is a very important aspect of boat ramp etiquette that helps all of our fisheries.
FAQ’s
1. Where can I practice backing up so I’m ready to launch quickly ?
Go to an empty parking lot such as the back of a shopping center when it’s closed. Use cones to create a lane and spend time getting the hang of backing up your boat.
2. How can I make backing up easier?
With smaller boats that have limited visibility, you can install PVC or conduit poles on the right and left rear to give you better visibility.
3. What if I see someone else practicing bad boat ramp etiquette?
Not everyone will practice proper etiquette, but it’s important to be respectful of all boaters and offer a helping hand when needed.
4. If I see some struggling how do I offer help?
Be kind with your approach and ask nicely, most people are going to welcome a helping hand and they might learn something for next time.
5. Is there anything else I should remember for practicing proper boat ramp etiquette ?
One tip to avoid traffic on busier lakes is to get to the launch early before the crowds arrive.
Conclusion: Boat Ramp Etiquette
This summer, remember to follow these tips to ensure you can safely and effectively launch in a timely matter. Whether it is preparing pre-launch or getting reps in backing up your rig prior to going on the water, practice will make perfect. This will ensure that boaters can all get out on the water quickly and safely to enjoy the lakes.
