Know your skipper .....

[Pilar]

I'm gonna try to do this without getting all preachy. As you know, constant reader, we sometimes get all concerned about safety in general and choosing the right boat in particular. It's not that this is not always in the carculations for a fishing trip but only discussed here on this forum periodically. We have to fish sometime.

Last weekend there was an individual with proven challenges to good judgement giving rides to ifishers at Depoe Bay. You have no idea how much this concerned me because of the particular individual involved and his inability to discern reality from fantasy. Don't accept rides from strangers, just like hitchhiking.

So to all of you folks who are limited to accepting rides from others let's talk about how to pick a boat and a skipper.

IMHO it is a bad idea to just meet someone in a parking lot and then get on their boat for an ocean trip. Some of you may disagree and if you do I'd like to know what you are thinking.

Think of it as dating if you will. Ohhhhhh, internet dating even. We'll have to check in with Wakm and Stakm on that one. :grin:

If it was me asking for a ride I would want to know several things. Your list might be different because you have a different experience level or different concerns so make your own list. The goal here is to make the guy you are thinking of riding with into something more familiar than a stranger.

To ride on a boat I would like to have

1) Some first hand knowledge of the skipper's experience and what it is like to fish in his boat. (second hand is ok if you trust the person you are talking to)

2) Some first hand knowledge of the boat and it's general condition. (talk to the skipper about this one)

3) A good idea about the float plan and the activities for the day.

4) A firm commitment to meet at a certain time pre-launch and a firm commitment or agreement on a return time.

5) Optional but some basic knowledge of what I am expected to bring to the party, like gear, bait, food, PFDs, expenses or ???

Probably the easiest way for the new guys to figure this out is to contact some others that have fished on that boat before. I know a few of the skippers and you can E-mail me if you like and some of you have.

When you do this every weekend you end up fishing next to alot of boats you get to know something about those boats. There are some that I would get on in a heartbeat and some I know not at all.

Short of that, make your list and get to know the guy you are going to ride with. The fewer the surprises for you the better time you will have. For me the number one thing a skipper must have is the common sense to know when the conditions exceed his abilities or dedication of his crew.

I often ask riders if they are having fun and if they are ok. The answer is not always yes. Some people get seasick and some get scared.

It's ok to be scared.

If you ask some of these questions and you get attitude or defensiveness, just explain that it is your life that is on the line. Anyone who will not answer a few questions about experience and condition of the boat would probably not tell you other things you should know. A good skipper will respect your caution and welcome your questions. A good skipper will respect the ocean and it's fickle ways. A good skipper will sweat the details and make sure the boat is happy before and while you go out.

It is your life that is in the line, don't just get in any boat because your desire to fish exceeds your sense of self preservation.

Trust but verify. We Salty dogs are pretty tight and most to a man or woman will look you in the eye and tell you how it is. All of my friends are that way.

Alright, nuff said. Some of you other skippers who carry new guys chime in here and cover what I missed.

Lets help the new guys make some good decisions.

It's all about the right boat. Get in the right boat and be a happy fisher.

[WP]

John,
I don't carry many new people on my boat. I have a lot of aquaintences who think they want to go and a number of regular partners who fill the seats. That said, when I have invited someone to join me, I am surprised at the lack of questions. I know my boat and my own capabilities and comfort but they don't and I would expect questions! I have a small boat and limit her to 3 people, like you do. I am fairly clear about the gear capacity of the boat (small) and what I plan to do. I virtually never get questions! I often am not sure what to tell new folks. I try to tell them that the ride is likely to be wearing if we go for tuna or halibut, due to the distance to be run. I give an abreviated safety "lesson" these days so everyone will know what and how to deal with emergencies. I insure that at least one other can run the electronics and the boat to get us home if something happens to me. I think the key is that like all relationships, communication is the key. The skipper is the decision maker, not the expert in all things and I rarely have ALL the answers. It is my policy to ask folks how they feel and always consider the crew's opinions in decisions. Just makes sense to me...I can't know how they feel or think without their inputs.
Something else that needs consideration is taking a stranger on board. I am always a little hesitant because I don't know them and their capacities either. The crew is an important element in a successful day, both from a safety point of view and from a pleasure perspective. We all want to fish and we hate to miss an opportunity to go when it is offered but, I don't want anyone to join me who is not comfortable and confident in me and the boat. Been there and done that...not much fun.
John, you have a ot more experience than I do with having new crew join you...I will defer to that experience for advising them...just remember that the same holds for the skippers!
WP....a boat is a small dry space on a big ocean!

[CATCH AND EAT]

John you have said some good stuff here. I appreciate the warnings done this way too. Far more palitable and informative.

I will also chime in on the condition of the crew. Personally, I will not take folks that have been up all night getting hammered or want to bring booze on my boat without asking. Just no need for it in my opinion.

Everyone....everyone needs to stay sharp out there and really pay attention. It is a great help to have additional eyes watching the water when on the run. Crabpots are everywhere and a second set of sober eyes just might save you from having a major problem. Especially important on rough days.

My crew is important to me. I respect their opinion especially if they have salt experience. It is nice to have imput when conditions are not the best. Everyone has to be comfortable with the choice to go.

A word of advice to some captains out there. Don't take an entire crew of newbies either. Take at least one other person with at least some boating experience with you and one that knows how to use the fishing gear and follow instructions. It can be absolutly no fun for a captain that is by himself running the boat, baiting hooks, netting fish ect....in bouncy seas.

Most of all, like Pilar said, get to know each other on the phone before going. By talking with persons on the phone you can tell pretty much what their experience level is by asking a few key questions.

All this said, I love taking folks out that have not had the experience of the sea and salmon fishing in the salt. Even if they get a little sick they are still hooked and want to go again. I just love the big cheesey grins at the dock when we come in with limits of nooks and coho. Priceless.

[Sea Jypzee]

You guys have said it well already. I think the idea of contacting others who've fished with whatever capt. you might choose is a great one. Ask around, even if you're afraid to question the skipper, ask others who've been with them and get the real low-down on the boat and the crew.

Be honest as well about your own abilities and questions. If you're uncomfortable about something, be honest and say it to the skipper or crew so that everyone is up front.

I too strongly agree about no alcohol while on board. Once we're back to the dock, if the crew wants to open up and have some fun, hey, go for it...but the ocean isn't the time or place.

Thanks for bringing this topic up Pilar.

[Bait O' Eggs]

I have probably taken more different people from ifish in my boat than any other ifish'er over the years. (Ya I get around, and if you have fished with me, it is like you have fished with everybody else I have fished with)

Very few have crossed the bar in my boat because I only go on select days in my boat, so I speak from experience with taking people fishing.

I have not done a good job showing people how to operate the boat and where the safety equipment is. Most of the trips are out on the Willamette or Columbia, so it isnt really the same as the Ocean, though can get dangerous.

When fishing with EdSr this last weekend, Ed gave the entire speach, on how to operate each bilge pump, to how to switch fuel tanks. I was quite impressed, and asked myself why I hadnt done that thru out the years.

I have fished with others who have had mechanical problems while on the water. And I can tell you the pucker factor climbs exponentially when the motor wont start on somebody elses boat and you are stranded and pretty much know nothing about their system. :shocked: Add to that some water coming over the transom, land not in site, and see what color shorts you have at the end of the day :shocked:

John brings up some good points, look the boat over, ask questions, know how to perform simple functions should the captain not be able to do it. Its only a fish today, dont give up the many fish tomorrow.

Now on 3 get out there and bonk some heads, and cut some throats!!!! (end of pep talk)

[ 07-24-2003, 06:31 PM: Message edited by: Bait O' Eggs ]

[wak'm&stak'm]

Oh Thanks Jon, drag me into it.....some of us are not as lucky as you and can meet our MATE...via the web the first time.

I had to think of how these two subjects compare, but I think I get your drift.

First, Never take some ones word for their qualities.
Example....the first time I was looking for true love (online )... I sat down with a couple of beers (first mistake), and a instant message pops up. So I click view profile and I see a fuzzy picture of a beautiful Southern Bell from Connetticut. Auburn hair, big smile, one chin, not bad I think to myself. So I say hello and hit the return key (second mistake).
We chit chat for a couple of days, and I never see a good picture even though I asked.
Then she says, " I would sure like to see the west coast". So I think to myself...Right On...
and I respond with the comment " I'll buy if you fly". (third mistake)

If this women was in sales....she'd be a millionare. or maybe I was just stupid........anyway.

She tells me, when I get off the plane you will see me in a blue skirt, and white blouse, and you will like me tan legs and big smile.....Ooooohhhh!

So here I am at the airport and everyone walks by and I do not see her...then I feel a tug on my sleeve... and OH MY GOD!....please do not think I am vane, or prideful....but ....EEK.

She was all of 300....yellow teeth, levi moo moo, purple back pack with bags of candy hanging out of it, red bug bites on her legs, and red straw hair, ....worst yet my brother was visiting and I can't go home now....so I think maybe Canada.

It was a sad affair all around...anyway...we talked and she returned.

Ok.....sooooo..... I think Jons point is....don't put yourself in a bad place on someones word, and even if you want something real bad, ...... well you figure it out.

.....Now to redeem myself.....and internet dating... I have met many very nice woman...honest, and exactly who they say they are, but I ask questions, and answer theirs. I get reference..(pictures)...I make calls, and read between the lines....just as I would do if hooping on a boat.


So how did I do Jon??????

[ 07-24-2003, 09:56 PM: Message edited by: wak'm&stak'm ]

[Jennie@ifish]

Can I have permission to mirror this to the main board?
It will be closed briefly while I move it, and then reopen again.

This is a GREAT and important thread!

Jen

[Pilar]

Yes, go ahead Jennie. I hope the river rats and bank guys can get something out of this too.

[Fishplay]

Every thing is pretty much covered here already.

I will reiterate...don't be afraid to ask questions. Basicaly interveiw the skipper.

As John said no offence should be taken.

By all means get references. Check with other skippers and previous crew. However, you should inform the party you intend to do so.

Again no offence should be taken.

Ask permission to inspect the vessal. Even if you know nothing about boats you can tell allot with a simple visual inspection.

Appearance is a good indicator. If the engine looks like a hunk of scrap iron it probably is.

If the bilge pump is discharging water at the dock I would not board the craft for a trip offshore.

Last and very important. If you are uncomfortable with the vessal or skipper and question eithers abilities, don't be afraid to back out and give the reason why. There is never any obligation.

Your safety should be your first priority!

[Woody]

I think I may have something to contribute from a passengers point of view.

Over the past few months I've been invited to be a guest on six different ifisher boats. Four on fresh water and two on salt.

The process went something like this; I responded to a post about an open seat, or they responded to my post begging a seat. We then switched to private e-mail and nailed down the details, time and place, ect. We also exchanged phone numbers and spoke several times before the trip. During those conversations, I tried to read between the lines and get a feel for what these guys were like. I'm sure they were doing the same thing. You just have to use your intuition. You know that little voice that tells you that something isn't quite right, listen to it.

The first three guys I met, sourdough, pearl, and smily, were awesome. From the first minute I met each of them, it was obvious that they knew what they were doing. The way they handled themselves and their boats made be feel very comfortable with the sitation. They knew their way around the rivers were fishing and how to target what we were after.

My wife and I then setup a trip for Halibut with Taylors Viewpoint. The process was similar, we talked here, then e-mail, and by phone. This situation was a little different, however. I was taking my wife on a trip out 30+ miles into the ocean with someone I had never met. This was a bit more serious than heading out on the Willamette or the Sandy. I knew nothing about his boat or experience on the ocean. So what did I do? I e-mailed Pilar and asked him. I also politely asked George about his boat and his experience. He sent me a picture of his boat and gave me his "resume". I also spoke to Keta, our shipmate for the trip. He had been out on George's boat and had only good thing to say. In other words, I did my homework. I also listened to my intuition. In the end, I was comfortable with the situation and we went and had safe trip with another great guy.

I was getting complacent, I was batting a 1000 with ifishers. So, I hooked up with another ifisher, let's call him Mr. X, for a trip on the Columbia for summer chinook. We only e-mailed enough to exchange phone numbers. Then we only spoke long enough to plan the time and place and why don't you bring some spinners and coffee. I should have listened to the little voice. The guy was ill prepared, and inexperienced. It was clear to me he had litte experience with his boat and had only been on this river a couple of times. He had the wrong anchor for the currents in the Columbia. On top of that, he didn't really know where to fish. I'm not going to pile on this guy any more than I already have. I did it another post and that was enough. Let's just say I let down my guard.

Next was short little trip out of Depoe Bay with SeaJypzee after my son and I worked on her boat. After spending the day with her while we were working on her boat, it was clear she knew what she was doing. I had complete confidence in her abilities. I'm looking forward to doing some tuna fishing with her later this year.


The point of my ramblings? To prove Pilars point. Don't let your guard down. Don't be afraid to ask questions, especially if your going out on the ocean. Ask about the boat and the captains experience. You don't have to interogate them, just spend some time talking, get to know them, make a friend. Even if your going out on a local river, take little time get to know the people your going to spend 6 or or 8 or 10 hours trapped on a boat with. If things go south, at the least, you could have a bad day and wish you would have stayed in bed, at the worst, well, you could die. Agree in advance about how long you are going to be out. Bring a lunch and some snacks if it's going to be an all day thing. Bring enough coffee for both of you, and maybe some doughnuts or something. If your a new to the type of fishing and you don't have the gear, ask in advance if they have some you can use. Most guys who have been doing this for a while have multiples of everything, but don't just show up and expect to use their stuff without asking first. Ask what kind of bait your using that day and offer to bring some. Offer to pay for gas, some guys will take your money some won't, but expect to pitch in. In other words, be a good guest.

Communication is the key. You can tell a lot by spending a little time talking on the phone with someone. Use your intuition, and read between the lines.

[Thick-N-Thin]

I think the captain’s experience and judgment are extremely important here. I know that I wouldn't take my kids or a friend out until I obtained experience navigating the bar, ocean and understanding the dangers. I believe the captain is responsible of informing un-experienced crewmembers of the danger inherent when boating the bar and ocean.

A co-worker was invited to go out of Winchester Bay by a customer of ours a few years ago in January. My co worker had no experience what so ever crossing the bar as well as being in the ocean. I don't think our customer had ever been out of Winchester Bay before, but had been in the ocean on his 23ft cabin cruiser a few times. They had no idea of the dangers crossing the bar. They didn't know the conditions they were going into. They didn't have VHF. They had a CB, but not on. They didn't know how to communicate with the coastguard. They had no clue where the hazard sign that was flashing was. They didn't know what the buoy markers meant. They had no idea where to cross. They crossed the bar when it was restricted to 26ft. They made it out with nothing but pure and simple luck. They had no idea the bar was restricted. They just thought the breakers were normal and everyone had to cross them to get out. It took the coastguard to chase them down to tell them they just about killed themselves. NOT A CLUE!

Unfortunately the co-worker had no clue of the dangers and the customer was a complete idiot.
[img]graemlins/stupid.gif[/img]

Great Post!

[ 07-24-2003, 11:49 PM: Message edited by: Thick-N-Thin ]

[DriftR]

Just ask a captain about his sea charts? Ask him about his electronics? Look at his communication systems. Look at the overall condition of the craft. Ask questions and more questions. Your eye for detail may be your lifesaver. I am a firm believer in having personal safety gear with me whenever I go out. Small handheld GPS, cell phone, USCG approved float coat, signaling mirror, flashing strobe, spare batteries, drinking water, power bars, knowledge of the area to fish. Know how to read a chart. If not learn. Next purchase will be a waterproof VHF handheld. I take my survival suit with me also. If there is not room aboard for it I don't go. Main thing to remember is try and be prepared for anything. Then when it does happen remain calm. Never, ever be afraid to call for assistance or help. My wife and two daughters want a husband and father not a dead hero. Fishing fever has hit all of us one time or another. Just make sure that it does not overwhelm your common sense.

[corrirod]

One thing I'd like to add to this post is that the Captain needs to "know the passengers" also. As a passenger it is your responsibility to make sure the captain is aware of any personal issues you might have. For instance, you occasionally get sick when on the ocean, you have diabetes, you have back problems, any other physical impairments(knees, shoulders, eyes, etc.), or even the fact that you need to be off the water at a certain time. One thing I can't stand is when someone goes fishing with me and at 2pm they tell me they need to be back at the dock by 3pm to pick up their kids, or go to the doc, or whatever. For me, when I go fishing for the day, the day is 24 hours long. Not that I'll fish that long, but I'm available to fish that long. :grin: You need to tell me long before the trip date what time you'll need to be in.

Please also tell the captain what YOUR attributes are, do you know how to use a GPS, Radar, Pilot a boat, read charts, trained in CPR, etc.? Have you ever fished for the species of the day before? Have you ever used the equipment that we are using before?

One thing I can't stress enough is to have your own safety equipment, meaning life jacket and survival suit. I carry extra of both on my boat but all of them are for 100-200 lb. passengers. If you are larger or smaller than this you will need to bring your own.

There is no excuse for you not to buy your own life jacket.

Unless you are planning to make this your last trip ever then buy a life jacket so you can be assured that it fits properly, you know how to use it, and you know it has been properly maintained.

Let's kill fish and not get killed!

[seasquid]

Great post Rod. You folks who ask to go with us dogs need to take Rod's post to heart.

Good luck this weekend.

ss

[Fishplay]

Good idea Rod. I have many more quality life jackets on board Rotsa Ruck than I will ever have passengers at one time.

However, it is nice to have your own that you know fits and functions properly.

This is especialy true for kids and extra large adults.

[Killertraylor]

Great post. One thing I do is require people to wear lifevests when we go in the ocean. I've got a few of those sospender type if they complain about it being too bulky. I've never thought about teaching them how to run the boat - great idea. One other thing - in my experience, a lot of "salty dogs" (not just ifishers) either drink or smoke marijuana on the ocean. You need to decide whether you are comfortable with that before you step on someone's boat - and it's often difficult to discuss it with them.

[fish assassin]

Killertraylor wrote:

"One other thing - in my experience, a lot of "salty dogs" (not
just ifishers) either drink or smoke marijuana on the ocean. You need to
decide whether you are comfortable with that before you step on someone's
boat ..."

That works the other way, too. I invited a couple of dock rats to go out TUNA!
fishing with me last year that brought both drugs AND alcohol on my boat. Now,
please understand, I've got nothing against using either under the right
circumstances ... but NOT on MY boat!!!

I run a commercial operation (well, kinda-sorta) and I've gotta run my boat
like the CG says a commercial boat need to be run. I even have the signs posted
on the boat that says that this is a Drug and alcohol free environment .
These two brought this stuff on my boat without asking. I cut the TUNA! trip
short and went home!! Sorry, man, you gotta ask your captain before you just
assume that it's Okey-Dokey to do that sort of thing!! (IMHO)

Just 'cause I gots long hair, it don't mean I'm a drugie!!

-assAssin- :shocked: :grin: :shocked: :grin: :shocked:

[Miss B Haven]

Hey- is this post about ME???? :shocked: :grin: (I'm not talking about the dating either) :tongue:

[Pilar]

One other thing - in my experience, a lot of "salty dogs" (not just ifishers) either drink or smoke marijuana on the ocean. You need to decide whether you are comfortable with that before you step on someone's boat - and it's often difficult to discuss it with them.

<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helv">I am so tempted to step in it here ...........

I did and then I changed my mind.

[ 07-30-2003, 01:47 PM: Message edited by: Pilar ]

[Joe Schwab]

I don't see KT implicating any one person by his post. Yes there are some who think "it" is OK.

In my boat I just say no. I'm not "buying" into anything. The Coast Guard requires a "drug free" environment with good cause for anyone with a license.

[Pilar]

KT

And that is all I have to say about that .........

[ 07-30-2003, 01:46 PM: Message edited by: Pilar ]

[CATCH AND EAT]

Originally posted by Miss B Haven:
Hey- is this post about ME???? :shocked: :grin: (I'm not talking about the dating either) :tongue:

<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helv">Nawh Mel, a beer here or there is fine. Smoking is fine. Dope? That is not fine. What I appreciated about you Mel is that you showed us how to run Miss B. in case we threw ya overboard or something. Besides that, Miss B. drives herself. She just uses you for meals at the gas dock. :shocked: Now as far as dating, What would your wife say????

Some of us are a bit more "liberal" on our boat policies. On my boat, I prefer no beer, thats just me. Now if someone asks if they could have "ONE" I suppose that would be okay. Just don't bring a six pack and expect me to be happy. I most likely would put it below and ask you to save it for the dock to drink during boat clean up time. No problem-o with that at all. No high horse here I just choose to not use or drink "performance enhancers" while boating or driving.

When on another persons boat respect their requests. Pretty simple. Example, when on Mels boat Mel smokes. No problem. He had read a post from me on another thread and told me I could go ride on the bow while he was chewing on a cancer stick if it did bother me. :grin: I declined his offer as we were heading over the bar and bouncing once in a while over the rollers.

I don't think there is anything in this thread to get bent about. The heat seems to be affecting some judgements here and we just need to respect folks views are at least comment on them without getting ****y. Just know your limits and never exceed what your abilities cannot overcome.

[ 07-30-2003, 01:38 PM: Message edited by: CATCH AND EAT ]

[Killertraylor]

.

[ 07-30-2003, 01:59 PM: Message edited by: Killertraylor ]

[Pilar]

Just curious KT, do you do the same thing before getting in a car? or a Taxicab?

How about an airplane, trimet bus or other conveyance?

[ 07-30-2003, 01:45 PM: Message edited by: Pilar ]

[CATCH AND EAT]

Raise the level a bit.

The name calling, that's unnecessary too folks. [img]graemlins/icon_argue.gif[/img]

thanks

[ 07-30-2003, 02:42 PM: Message edited by: CATCH AND EAT ]

[SlabQuest]

Back to the original subject:

This may have already been mentioned, but a good thing to look for on your potential ride-boat is a current (or recent) coast guard inspection sticker. (I got my 2003 sticker 2 weeks ago).

If you see the sticker, you probably don't need to ask too much about the boat's safety status.

[Killertraylor]

Since you deleted all your statements, Pilar, I deleted all my responses. Thanks for reconsidering.

[ 07-30-2003, 02:02 PM: Message edited by: Killertraylor ]

[OceanBlue]

KT - I think you missed the point.

Your original statement was that "a lot of 'salty dogs'..."

If your original statement was, "a lot of guys I have fished with..." you would not have been seen as generalizing.

None of us would disagree with your suggestion to broach the subject with your prospective skipper if you have concerns about these issues.

[Pilar]

It is reasonable for anyone to expect that the person driving the conveyance not be intoxicated. If you feel like you need to add that to your interview questions then do so.

Well, since I am not arguing my side of it, go ahead and speak for me.

I really, really, really, really like it when somebody does that. :grin: &lt;grin&gt;

You are speaking the obvious. Any one with the sense God gave the little black **** ant would be on guard if the skipper of the boat they were about to board was visibly intoxicated.

We welcome all here and if your deal is to state the obvious then have at it. And I will thank you to take a hint. If I am not arguing my side of the argument, perhaps you should not argue it for me.

What do you think?

[ 07-30-2003, 02:11 PM: Message edited by: Pilar ]

[Killertraylor]

Pilar - thank you for the private email where we could discuss this in a civil manner. You're a class act and it was sincerely appreciated. I'm glad we understand each other.

Joe

[ 07-30-2003, 03:30 PM: Message edited by: Killertraylor ]

[CATCH AND EAT]

Awe....Thats more like it. Good show.

[Pilar]

Thank you KT for listening and sharing.

E-me anytime and I will listen ......

[Killertraylor]

[ 07-30-2003, 01:59 PM: Message edited by: Killertraylor ]

[Mr. Fisherman]

:grin:

From the archives...

It is getting closer every day.
For those of you who may not have seen this..here
...

[SKSPAWNER]

Thanks, Ray: This is a great time to start bringing this subject up again. I hope we can get more people tuned into all aspects of safety this year so we don't lose anyone this year.

Sunny K [img]graemlins/applause.gif[/img]

[Dan in Alaska]

I hope I didn't alarm anyone by seeing if anyone was interersted in a out-of-state fishing tip trade in another thread. I certainly didn't mean to step on toes.

[Popeye]

Absolutely not Dan....I was contemplating making the trade with you, then remembered how many irons I had in the fire. BTW, you're more than welcome to hitch a ride with me this summer!

[outpost22]

All of your points are well taken. I've been trying to figure out the best way to start some coastal fishing. I've got tons of fresh water boating experience (40+ years) but little salt water. I figured the best way is to first, learn the basics of proper navigation, safety, radio communications, etc. from a Powersquadron course.

Next, we hired a guide after talking with several and finding one who seemed more interested in OUR well being than his own. We hired him to take us out on HIS boat (27' Sea Sport) and show us how to navigate the bar, danger areas, etc. Along the lines of "Know your skipper", the first things he did when we stepped on board was to show us his PFD's (even though we brought our own comfortable "type 3's" to wear. He also showed us his EPIRB and how to activate it, along with the "Type 4 throwable device". And then told us basic safety precautions and procedures.

Next, when we go out in our own boat, we will "buddy up" with friends with their boat and follow them out and only a short distance at that.

I've very much appreciated reading everyones experiences n this board. It's very informative.

[DownTime]

Pilar;
Your post made me realize once again how lucky I am.A few years ago I made the mistake of a lifetime and lived to tell about it,I will try and share this story so others may learn the easy way from it.
A co- worker of mine invited me to go bottom fishing out of Neah Bay.He has a 24' Reinell with a V-8 Mercury I/O.I had only seen pictures of the boat that were a few years old.He is originally from Arizona and the pictures were taken on Lake Powell.The boat seemed to be seaworthy.He had left the boat at Neah Bay stored in a parking lot from his last fishing trip a few weeks prior, and we were going to pick it up and bring it home for the summer.He told me we would need to do some maintenance on the boat before we could take it out.What an understatement. We arrived and started to work on the boat.We put a new v-belt on it and changed the plugs and points.Launched and started out of the bay to go fishing.Got just past the coast Guard station and the motor quit.We drifted and paddled to some pilings that we tied up to and went ashore.(no VHF)Got a person to tow us back to the dock and trailered the boat to a repair shop in Sekiu.They got the boat running with a new condenser,but it was too late in the day to go out again.We made camp and started out again the next morning.(I am a slow learner). :whazzup:This time we got out of the bay past the breakwater and off the lighthouse and got into some nice bottom fish about three miles offshore.We were having such a good time pulling up two and three fish at a time that we didn't notice the fog bank descending on us.Well this captain didn't have any working electronics.As a matter of fact the only electronics he had was a fish finder that was broken.He didn't even have a compass on board.the fog came in rapidly and you couldn't see 50 feet.He looks at me and I say we should head in because it doesn't look like this fog is going away.He asks me what direction.I knew this was going to be a long day.Well just for the heck of it I had put a pocket compass in my shirt before we left, and I took a bearing when we cleared the breakwater leaving Neah Bay(charts,what charts?).I knew it was a long way to China! I put him on the right heading back and handed him the compass.I am watching our wake and I can see we are going in a circle .I ask him if he is having trouble holding the heading.He looks at me and asks what the red needle in the compass is for,does it mean South and he is serious.This guy won't let anyone else pilot the boat so I tell him to give me the compass and I will tell him how to turn the wheel to hold the course.I can't tell you what went through my mind about now,but it was not pleasant and the old saying of your life flashing before your eyes was starting to become all too true.Well we motored for what seemed an eternity and let me tell you if ever you are going to doubt oneself this was the time.Finally shore came into view after my life flashed through my mind again many times.We were just a short distance from the breakwater and made it into the bay and on the trailer safely.The fog did not lift for two days.To top it off the trailer breaks just outside of Sekiu and we have to have it welded to get home.The guy that fixed it told him it was just a temporary fix and it needed to be made permanent when we got home.He has not fixed it permanently to this day.He asked me the next year if I wanted to go again and I politely declined.So Pilar you can see I can really relate to your words of wisdom and I hope I can save others from harrowing experiences in the future.I am still learning things everytime I go on the ocean and hope that I always will.

JB

[WP]

Holy s_it!
That tops all my stories for pure pucker power. Maybe Darwin was off base. It seems that a lot of self destructive behaviors go un punished! Glad you got back safely.
Dave
:shocked:

[Pilar]

Wow, for every story like that there are 10 more untold due to pride or fear of embarassment. Thanks for telling it and more important, Downtime ... thanks for reminding us about complacency. Once you get to know something, even something as deadly as the ocean can be ... you relax and let down your guard ... just a little.

One thing I get out of using the pocket compass in the fog. Practice using your compass when it is nice and you can see. Using it when you truly need it will be more like second nature. It is truly an amazing device. Think about the seafarers who covered long distances with just a compass and a sextant.

We have GPS now but there is no excuse for any of you to not be proficient with the old technology. The GPS system is not officially commissioned and they can turn it off for reasons of national security any ******* time they want.

What would you do if you were suddenly deprived of the plastic Jesus and you had no idea what the needle on the compass was or how it worked?

Can you even imagine wanting to drive a boat around on the sea and not knowing how a compass works? Gives me the heeby jeebies just thinking about it.

[corrirod]

Great story Downtime, thanks for sharing!

Fog is the worst for disorienting. I've always been pretty good about knowing which way I was going or coming from but in the fog......FORGET IT. On flat days with fog I've tried to NOT look at the compass and see if I can tell which way I'm going. It's really hard but I think it's a good drill. You need to make sure you remember which way the swell is traveling, the wind direction, or anything that may help you to figure out which way is which.

Thanks again for sharing!

[puffins crew]

WOW! Thanks for sharing that hair razing story.

I have been on the Puffin in thick fog. The GPS told us we were right in the jaws at Yaquina, I was on the bow, listening for the breakwater comming into the jettys. We could not see 20 feet in front of the boat. Once we found the north jetty it was no problem. <font color="blue"> </font> I was scared, to say the least.

We cleared the bar and got past the beach, it was as clear as could be. Seeing that bridge was a very welcome sight.

Peace, Tom

[Nalu]

While I was running a boat in Alaska on the Cook Inlet my GPS unit went haywire while I was close to 20 miles out. The fog rolled in and quickly we had less than 30 foot of visibility.

Thankfully I was well aware of my headings. I kept a small log of compass headings from all of my halibut spots. I carried a chart too, but the pre-logged bearings make it one less thing to think about.

My GPS went back and forth in appearing to work. Bearings popping in and out. I finally just turned it off, and ran the entire trip back to the beach by compass.

I was awfully proud when I appeared out of the fog in front of Deep Creek.

I'd advise anyone that they routinely make a hard copy reference of headings and depth at their waypoints, and favorite spots. Compass headings and depth will tell you a whole bunch. You never know when a fuse will pop, or a solar flare will disrupt sattelites.

Just my $.02

Mike

[Pilar]

He's back and posting on Ifish. Don't know the user name yet but when I do ...... If you know who it is send me a PM, thank you very much.

Beware, not everyone is who they say they are while crouching behind a keyboard. Right Wak?

This is why we have TA meetings, so we can match faces with names.

Friends don't let friends go on boat rides with hosers.

[Fishplay]

I thought he was permanantly deep sixed. I'm actually finding it hard to beleive. Are you sure he's still alive?

If so his boat must have been out of commission for the last year.

<font color="red">KNOW YOUR SKIPPER!!! </font>

[Pilar]

Fishplay .. he's been back twice under new user names. Alert users tagged him and bu-bye. Now he's back again. So bu-bye again for the 4th time!

Some people never learn. In the old days they covered your worthless hide with tar and feathers and escorted you out of town.

[Deepslayer]

Pilar I have not noticed any of his self serving ego building posts on the Salty Dogs. Where did you find him, on the main board?
,ed

[Mark Mc]

Oh Sheesh.... are you talking about "he who shall not be named"? The one with a nickname similar to Fred &amp; Whilma Flintstone's pet? The one who would have to be an olympic champion decathlete if half of what he said was true?

[sturgn]

HAHAHAHAH Man I used to get a laugh out of some of his Bull!

[Deepslayer]

Olympic champion nothing! This guy would have to be at least a demi-god. Wouldn't you agree John.
,Ed

[Fshklr]

Pilar,
Some great points in your original post. Thanks for all of the tips. I have just started to take open seats and really hadn't given much thought to "MY RESPONSIBILTY" in taking an open seat.
Thanks for the tips!

[Pilar]

Bump de bump .. in memoriam of the wanna be Salty Dog.

[judyfish99]

Pilar, I know what you meant. Where I work, there is this guy who is kinda like that. Done this and that, must be 200 years old if he did all that. Now everyone at work is avoiding him. He is gone for a month in Venezuela photographing Angel Falls...No body is missing him so far. I have been on a boat in Warrenton, Oregon that is parked with the commercials..It was the "Salmon". Anyhow he was kind enough to show me how the electronics worked and how to start and stop the diesel engine on his 50(?) footer. I have even taken the boat out of port on occasion....Now he has a girlfriend, I do not go fishing with him, anymore (I think his girlfriend doesn't like me on the boat with them but that's ok, that is her problem)...So I have a little experience with beeeg boats. I also stayed to help hose down the boat and clean it up. This is a really good thread and shows both sides..But we were all green at sometime and appreciate the lessons taught...I will be for the first time fishing for Halibuts and would like to try Tuna, heard it is addictive..I was born in a fishing family and raised fishing...Sorry wak'em and stack'em...I am boyfriend challenged.....too independent and care about all my fishing buddies..1st love is fishing judyfish99

[whaleraddict]

This is one of the best threads going on the site. My wife asked me to post her thoughts as she is waiting for her account to be setup.

I’m replying for my wife, who just signed up (She Fishes Too), but doesn’t yet have her password…

Great advice, a little “Boating Safety 101” before leaving, especially how to run the bilges and operate the radios! One of the most important things, we think, when on an unfamiliar boat is locating (and being able to access) the PFDs. Many times we have gotten on boats where the PFDs are tucked away in some bow locker. Good luck getting to those out in an emergency! We always get ours out and insist our passengers wear them when crossing the bar. For two reasons; one, they know how to put them on and get them adjusted properly and two, they may remove them once we are out in a calm ocean, but they are responsible for where they put them. We are amazed how many people continue to wear them, even in calm seas! If we don't insist they put them on from the get-go, perhaps they would be too embarrassed to ask for one.

[Mark Mc]

Fast forward ... here we go again!!!

[Mr. Fisherman]

Good idea Mark. Thanks for hunting this gem up and bringing it to the top...

[Pete]

This post and thread remains vital ... tuna fever can pull a blue fog over your eyes ... take the time to be certain of your safety. Don't respond to unsolicited e-mail invitations. Investigate to understand the vessel and captain you will entrust with your life. If you have any uncertainty or unanswered questions, ask someone else and resolve any uncertainty or questions before making a commitment. It's just fishing! Keep it fun!

[PapaHog]

This old thread was a good read.

I have pre prepared a statement in word about myself and my experences to pm an open seat. In the statement are some questions for the skipper, about his experiences and his boat.

I just copy paste and send and wait for a reply.

Thanks for bringing this up again.

[Pilar]

Yes, unsolicited mail from guys that are not registered or who cannot register on Ifish should be suspect. If they were legitimate, they would be on this forum and would be a part of the group.