right size boat?

[stunod]

Hi everyone,<br /><br />Last year I bought a 16' bayliner which I used all summer. I quickly got tired of the size and bought a 21' cuddy mark twain.<br /><br />QUESTION: How far would you guys recommend going out at sea with a 21' boat? 2 miles ? 30 miles??<br />Do I fish for cocktail blues...or fish for TUNA!<br /><br />Thanks in advance,<br />Lou

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: right size boat?

Okay don't be mis-led by the VT (Vermont) I was raised on salt water (Atlantic New York area and "acid waters" off Jersey) and have allot of time out in it. I would seriously say fish for the Blues. I have seen many 40 footers get salvaged and towed back from the Ocean. You realize that once you are in the ocean far enough paddling back is out of the question. The equipment required for safe passage and the worry about your rig is not worth it.<br /><br />I go out every year and charter an expieranced licensed Boat/Captain just for tuna (I go out of Port Judith, RI). Even on the 40 footer we go on it gets pretty tough at times.<br /><br />Who knows maybe I have lost my nerve or maybe the wisdom is taking effect. Me I just would not do it unless I was equipped properly. I will not advise you to do it, sorry if this is not the reply you may have expected.<br /><br />I'm sure this will get some varied replies on the board. I know even the Gulf is tough...dam the weather is just not predictable enough.<br /><br />Bob

 

[Homerr]

Re: right size boat?

I have a 22' bayliner, and I go out a few miles over here on the West Coast of Oregon.<br /><br />ONLY IN CALM WEATHER HOWEVER!!<br /><br />I usually stick close to shore. <br /><br />I've seen people take 16' bass boats out where I wouldn't even think about it, but I guess that depends on how big your **lls are !<br /><br />A much more experienced friend of mine made a good point, however... Just watch the weather. If you think for a second that the weather is turning.. Get back to port.<br /><br />And I definately agree with the last reply.. EQUIPMENT! I am a strong believer in over-kill when it comes to saving my ass! Double up where you can.<br /><br />I keep some good equipment on board even if I'm rock fishing near shore. <br /><br />H.

 

[EGalvTex]

Re: right size boat?

I'm not sure on bayliner construction, but I would not consider going off shore in a small boat unless it had a fully foam filled hull. (whalers, sea hunts, etc.) A two hour ride back to shore in only 2ft. seas after a full day of fishing will beat you silly too.

 

[Major Woods]

Re: right size boat?

Weather dictates how far off shore you should go. I have a 22CC and have gone 40 miles off shore for tuna but the weather was perfect. In rough seas I go no further off shore than Martha's Vinyard. Keep your ear to the weather station and plan accordingly.

 

[Hawkeye1]

Re: right size boat?

Don't forget the weatherman lies.