small boating in the galveston area.

[sergioy]

I guess this is kind of a goofy question, but there it goes. Can I take my 1975 18' Mark Twain 165 hp I/O around the Galveston TX area? And if so, what can I do to prep my boat for a saltwater outing? Its too far from Dallas to go and take a look, so if possible I would like to know ahead of time. Are there certain types of maps I should look into getting, should I get a GPS device, will I need to do anything to the motor before and/or after?

 

[lenny2113]

Re: small boating in the galveston area.

If you are not going to keep the boat in the water and will trailer it after your pleasure time, there is nothing you have to do to prep it for salt water. Once you are out of the water, flush your engine on muffs as soon as you get a chance. I would get a chart of the new area of where you plan your boating. This will help you to stay clear of shallow water... GPS is a nice thing to have, but a depth finder is more important. <br />Enjoy!

 

[KCook]

Re: small boating in the galveston area.

Ditto on what Lenny said about the depth finder. Or a cheap fishfinder will also show you the shallow stuff. A fishfinder with the usual transducer for the transom is not all that difficult to rig up.<br /><br />Kelly Cook

 

[rwcreigh1]

Re: small boating in the galveston area.

there is reef sand bars everywhere.just stay in the markers.but if you are careful you will be ok.fish around the galveston causeway and its VERY deep there.it the best place to fish and boat

 

[sergioy]

Re: small boating in the galveston area.

You guys are the best, thanks a million.

 

[beezee28]

Re: small boating in the galveston area.

Since Galveston area is basically in the Gulf and that means open water, it is best that you have a GPS, charts, and all the safety equipment on hand, eg. flare, mirror etc... if do don't have them already.

 

[Just Learning]

Re: small boating in the galveston area.

I too have small 19' I/O that I take to Freeport couple times a year. I've gotten some spray stuff that is okay for electrical and will create moisture barrier and sprayed all my electrical connections. Also, unless you have galvanized trailer, not a bad idea to back into a lake ramp as soon as feasible. The salt will wreak havoc on painted metal trailers and brakes.<br />Would concur with other posts about depth finder. I would also have at least handheld VHF radio along with all the required safety gear. I also got a GPS not only for piece of mind, but also to use with chart for good fishing spots, sturctures, etc.<br /><br />Just my 2 cents worth!