As you set out on your next fishing trip and take a look out onto the water, the scene looks calm and inviting. While this may be the case initially, weather can change at a moment’s notice, and once calm waters can quickly turn into surging waves. This is an experience you’re bound to go through at some point in time, and in those instances, you’ll need to know how to prepare for the rough waters ahead.
Understand your boat
Each boat is unique, and the way one boat reacts to harsh weather won’t be the same as another. Different hull designs react differently to the same weather conditions, that’s why it’s important for you to get a feel and understanding of your boat far before you run the risk of heading out in bad weather.
Slow down
If the waves are becoming a little choppy, the first thing you should do is slow down. This will help you drive your boat up over the waves rather than trying to run through them. Adjust the throttle as you go in order to ascend and descend the waves. If you go too fast, you won’t be able to adjust your throttle in time, and you could end up with water inside your boat.
Hold your boat at a 45-degree angle
While instinct tells you to point your boat straight ahead towards your destination, this is actually a dangerous thing to do when you’re in rough waters. Instead, hold your boat at a 45-degree angle to the swells headed in your direction. This will help your boat manage those swells more effectively, preventing you from rolling over after a large wave.
At the end of the day, you should use sound judgment. This means that you should consider skipping a trip out on the water or head back to shore once you sense the threat of rough weather. And, whether it’s sunny and the waves are still, or the waters are choppy and uninviting, V-Dock will be there to help you prepare for the journey with roll in docks, post sectional docks, and boat accessories for every need.
