What boat accessories (electronic/safety) needed for bay fishing

[dmirro]

i'm buying my first boat, a new Carolina Skiff RV1765 w/40hp engine. My question is: what things should I get along with the boat/motor/trailer to ensure a fun/safe fishing experience in the bays/inlets of SW Florida? Does anyone know of any considerations, cautions using the CS RV1765? Thanks guys!!

 

[blifsey]

Re: What boat accessories (electronic/safety) needed for bay fishing

Try this site for a list:<br /> http://floridaconservation.org/law/boatsafe/sfty_equip.htm <br /><br />I also found as I looked into this last yr:<br />- paddle(s)<br />- anchor and anchor rope<br />- small first aid kit (keep sun screen handy)<br />- navigation equipment (GPS, compass) plus map/chart of area your boating<br /><br />Search this board also, a recent thread asked similar question. I also suggest going through online boat safety course at minimum. "Real" course if you think needed.<br /><br />Good luck,<br />BL...

 

[dmirro]

Re: What boat accessories (electronic/safety) needed for bay fishing

BLifsey, thanks for the info and link. I'm new to boat ownership and this post, and so far it is very informative. The only information I've seen so far regarding Carolina Skiff is their Sea Chaser model. Does anyone have any experience buying/using any of the semi-v hull models (rv1765)?

 

[paintermn]

Re: What boat accessories (electronic/safety) needed for bay fishing

Not familiar with that exact hull design, but I have had considerable experience with similar boats. (Sundance 17V, Key West 17, and now Cape Horn 17). Most of what I do in Florida would be considered "Bay boat" fishing with some offshore to ten miles.<br /><br />Here is what I have to tell you:<br /><br />Consider a deeper hull design found on other boats. If you only go out in fair weather you will be OK, but things can change rapidly. The bay I fish is fifteen miles long and three wide, and I have had to run the length in the face of six foot seas.<br /><br />Consider more power. See above.<br /><br />You need the basics: anchor, I also like to have a "sea anchor" , life vest, throwable floatation, signaling ability (Flares, flare gun), communication: vhf radio, cell phone, first aid, paddle, water, compass, gps, ect

 

[marty_scher]

Re: What boat accessories (electronic/safety) needed for bay fishing

Don't forget your boat dealer!<br /><br />They should be able to help equip your boat properly (and sell you the equipment). They should (hopefully) be able to answer any local boating questions you have.<br /><br />If their prices are not too much more than Walmart, etc., buy from them. It will help a local business and keep them used to seeing you around.<br /><br />Building a decent relationship with your dealer can help reduce problem resolution later and may even help bump you ahead in the service queue