First trip checklist

[bowen405]

Good morning guys,
Headed out on my first trip on my own boat. Need a checklist from all you experienced guys. Pre-trip and necessary equipment to make sure I have!
Thanks dudes
Bryan

 

[Reel Kahuna]

PDF including all USCG safety requirement, assorted tools ie plies, 6" & 8"adjustable wrench, electrical tape. VHF is a must.

 

[SeaHawk IV]

If you're 35 years old or younger, you need to have a Boater License. Jan 1, 2021 is for the next age group.

What do you have on your list so far?

A PLB or similar device is a must in my opinion. Besides equipment, knowledge in knowing how to navigate on the water and using your devices is equally as important and how to use your VHF if you have one on the boat.

 

[bowen405]

Getting pfds. Have a tool kit, vhf radio. Need to get that license. Is it online?

 

[SeaHawk IV]

Google search CA Boater License.

 

[SeaHawk IV]

Size of boat depends on what you need for Coast Guard requirements.

Google search their webpage to get the up to date info.

 

[knot keely]

Getting pfds. Have a tool kit, vhf radio. Need to get that license. Is it online?

Yes. Course is free through Boat US and the state charges you $10 for the card. The course will tell you what the req USCG safety gear is.

 

[bowen405]

Perfect! Thank you

 

[pacificscout]

How far are you heading?
Local inshore is a good way to start.
Fog is one thing that really tests one's ability.

 

[HookEmDanO]

put the plug in

 

[bowen405]

How far are you heading?
Local inshore is a good way to start.
Fog is one thing that really tests one's ability.

I wanna head to the Coronados from pt Loma

 

[pacificscout]

Wow!!!
Great. Be safe.

 

[meandmyself]

i think you need mexican permits or license?

 

[InDeepShip]

Take a extra boat plug, the one you can expand like this.

Attwood T-Handle Drain Plug

Attwood T-Handle Drain Plug SCHEELS

www.scheels.com

 

[MYNomad]

Personally, I think the Coronados is too much adventure for your first trip. Go somewhere that you won't be expecting to catch fish, other than perhaps a rockpile for some rock cod. You will (or at least should) have lots on your mind besides catching fish and avoiding islands, other boaters and the Mexican Navy. You need to develop some basic skills - like anchoring. (And always be prepared to drop your anchor if you lose power -- that can stop you from washing ashore, or worse.)

 

[Unassailable]

Personally, I think the Coronados is too much adventure for your first trip. Go somewhere that you won't be expecting to catch fish, other than perhaps a rockpile for some rock cod. You will (or at least should) have lots on your mind besides catching fish and avoiding islands, other boaters and the Mexican Navy. You need to develop some basic skills - like anchoring. (And always be prepared to drop your anchor if you lose power -- that can stop you from washing ashore, or worse.)

Could not say that any better!

 

[RodRage]

EPERB and ditch bag with a hand held ship to shore radio and as much as your wallet is capable of filling it with, Id suggest taking a few trips local and learn your boat before going offshore. SAFETY FIRST!

 

[Reel Kahuna]

I agree with Nomad and RodRage. Familiarize yourself with the boat before venturing out too far. Vary your RPM/speed to find the sweet spot. Do Zig zags, circles, troll and even backing the boat. Turn the motor off and on several times to test the starter and batteries. List can go on and on. Best of luck.

 

[bowen405]

Ok thanks guys! I will definitely respect your experience and change the plans. Do you think La Jolla from SD harbor is ok?

 

[winningman]

And, good mechanic whom fishes better that U

 

[the SLIDER]

Get to know the handling of your boat. i usually get a test every trip. My visor flies off my head and I need to recover it before it sinks. I have about a 95% recovery rate now.

 

[SeaHawk IV]

Another good thing to have is boater tow service membership. VesselAssist or SeaTow

 

[starbright55]

Personally, I think the Coronados is too much adventure for your first trip. Go somewhere that you won't be expecting to catch fish, other than perhaps a rockpile for some rock cod. You will (or at least should) have lots on your mind besides catching fish and avoiding islands, other boaters and the Mexican Navy. You need to develop some basic skills - like anchoring. (And always be prepared to drop your anchor if you lose power -- that can stop you from washing ashore, or worse.)

That

I would just go for a bay cruise. There's enough interesting stuff in SD Bay and you can just focus on running the boat. Forget fishing or just bring a rod to two for some light entertainment.

I hadn't been out in 6 mos. and decided last week was a good time for a shake down cruise with the family, take inventory of what's on in and if we need to restock (i.e. check flare dates, etc.). Everything went well until the wind picked up and it took me a few tries to get back on the trailer!