equipment

[fishinrookie]

I'm realy new at launching my own boat.first time for every thing and was wondering what kind of equipment I might need is there A sight i can go to to read up on rules and regulations I know I need life-jackets and anker but I'm in the dark as far as what else I might need before I go out as far as the law and saftey thanks guys for any imfo. I'm realy uneasy about launching for the first time.

[links_man2]

Not sure what state you are in, but you should go to your Parks & Wildlife website. Should show what is required in your state.

[JB]

You're going to need running lights in front and back if you go in the dark, also a air horn or whistle if you get in trouble, life jackets or cushions that float.
Also a state ID sticker showing you've paid that years tax on boats. A fire extinguisher that is charged, and make sure you have your fishing license.

[flfireman]

whistle or horn, lights front and rear, lifejackets-1 for every person on board, current reg., bailing device, rag or towel(supposed to be for fuel leaks), fire extinguisher, rope, anchor, license. Depending on age a boaters safety course.

[fishinrookie]

ok great guys that helps alot but one more ? what is a BAILING DEVICE never herd of that would that be a BILGE PUMP

[Christopherkeene9]

Also need flares. Check your state regs for what kind and how many.

[Rebbasser]

what is a BAILING DEVICE never herd of that would that be a BILGE PUMP

Yep. That would be it.

The other guys covered it well. I would add:

A tool kit-wrenches, pliers, duct tape, electrical tape, you get the idea.
An extra drain plug.
Pen and paper-has come in handy more than once.
Toilet paper(no kidding)
Extra set of boat keys-better safe than sorry
Flashlight
Spare fuses
Spare lightbulbs for the running lights
Jumper cables(optional)-they come in handy on boats, too.

Welcome to the forum, BTW!

[zooker]

they are all over it..

it does suck launchin by your self -i do it all the time- a long rope helps greatly..

i use a 50 foot rope with snaps on both ends. hook one end up front -not to the bow eye-hook the other either to the trailer or to the truck. un hook EVERYTHING else.-remember the plug- back it in an float it off.. pull a head -wet feet sucks-get the rope off the trailer /truck go and tie it up..

you'll figure out the trailer "sweet spot" after a few time launching..


the long rope also helps greatly when FORCED to load a boat with out the moter.


zooker

[flbassman]

www.myfwc.com/boating

This covers the law required items.....

[foolishone]

I always have a spare truck key in boat and a spare boat key in the truck. Bailing device aka bucket is required if your batteries flood = pumps won't pump