DRat do you use oars?

[nobrainsd]

I ditched the ridiculously narrow zodiac paddles that came with my zodiac and bought rafting paddles. But I boat alone frequently and have been considering picking up some oars. I see the oar lock hardware on your NRS raft frame. Have you been using them? Does the inflatable row very well?

 

[Drowned Rat]

Re: DRat do you use oars?

Yes, I have them on board, but only use them as an emergency backup or to move across very shallow water. The boat rows like a big fat dog. Very sluggish response, even with the motor tilted up. They keep me out of trouble if a rock eats a prop accidentaly.

I use the 9" pins and clips set from NRS and 7.5' oars. It's a 14' boat. If I actually needed to row more often I'd probably go with a 9' oar.

 

[nobrainsd]

Re: DRat do you use oars?

Thank you for the benefit of your experience. Not surprised the inflatable is a bit of a "dog" under arm power. Hadn't really considered oar length at all. Good point! Was offered some used oars (free) and I now realize they are probably short for my needs. It would be nice to slowly pull along when fishing the estrero's without any idling outboard noise and enjoy the natural sounds of all the birds wheeling overhead. Definitely cheaper than an electric trolling set up. I'm going to keep looking...