Fishing in the Central Valley: Don’t be the one to hold up the line
It’s that time of year again when many recreational and seasonal boaters hit the water for the first time.
This also ushers in the dreaded period when launching ramps and docking areas become more crowded and backed up as inexperienced captains attempt to put their beloved watercraft in the water -- many for the first time ever.
There are several key issues that need to be addressed when a boater prepares to launch. The very first one that many newbies miss is to get you, your guests, your kids, your stuff ( sunscreen) and the boat completely ready to go before you even think about getting in line to launch.
Do it out of the way, where you can sanely get it all ready. I’ve seen unprepared folks crowd into line, or just head down the launch ramp in a real hurry to get in front of everyone, back down toward the water and suddenly go into instant slow motion as they unpack their vehicle.
It’s maddening for those following you.
The second real issue is being able to back your trailer and boat down quickly and accurately to the chosen dock. I’ve seen too many situations where a driver is unable to back a trailer down the ramp successfully without multiple attempts, including as many as 10. The more they try the more paranoid they become as the waiting crowd of lined up boaters stare at them.
Backing up a trailer is not that easy, and if you don’t get it right and can’t see then you’ve got a problem. Learning to put your tailgate down on a pickup or opening up your trunk on some cars and vans can be a big help. Practice is key- but not at the busy lake ramp.
When I’ve seen this kind of thing taking place and tempers are flaring, I will calmly offer to help by backing the rig down for them. And it helps relieve the stress of the boater and those waiting in line.
It may only be a few feet of water but to the inexperienced, it can feel like a mile.
A well greased line of fully prepared boats ready to back down, launch and get out of the way is wonderful. One unprepared unconscious boater can sure ruin a day at the lake for a lot of folks.
My last point is about dock etiquette.
Spending as little time at the dock as possible is critical while either putting in - or while loading out your craft ( jet ski, pontoon, etc). Getting in the water is great, but making sure you’re planning to open up the limited dock space you’re tied up to - is another key point of having respect for the time and safety of others.
Parking your car and trailer quickly, while someone tends the boat at the dock - ready to get off it asap, or move it - is another way to keep folks that are waiting happy.
Telling other waiting launching boaters that you’re trying to get out of their way fast- really does a lot for goodwill. A one person boater can be harder, because they have to tie up and park the car by themselves, and the opposite when pulling out.
If it’s me, then I make sure I tell the guy that’s waiting that I’m doing my best to make room for him right away. Sometimes they will help me.
A good attitude and clear communication goes a long way in creating mutual respect and a good environment.
Respect for others, common sense and a good attitude just about covers all the issues you can run into at the lake but of course who is counting? It really does make a difference. And never give up.
Roger George: rogergeorge8@protonmail.com, Rogergeorgeguideservice on Facebook and @StriperWars.