Safety first in rougher water!
Thanks to Dave Lear and Saltwater Sportsman for these rougher water boating tips.
- Slow down. Slower speeds allow better reaction time. Adjust the throttle to ascend/descend waves to avoid taking on water.
- Use the trim tabs carefully. Too much down tab can force the bow into oncoming waves, while no tabs allow the hull to plane as designed.
- Keep an eye on the radar or satellite weather. It’s always easier to go around a storm than through one.
- Tack into the waves rather than take them head-on, if possible.
- Alter your course to take advantage of more favorable sea conditions.
- Carry plenty of fuel.
- Know the tides and locations of shoals before running an inlet.
- Wear a life jacket.
- File a float plan.
More on this topic: https://www.saltwatersportsman.com/guiding-you-safety/