For experienced powerboat operators, there is an automatic mental thought process that guides them as they approach the dock to tie up. They may be stopping for supplies, fueling up, or unloading passengers. If those steps are carried out efficiently they dock safely.
For the less experienced boater, docking can be a challenge, especially in high wind and/or heavy current. If you don’t believe this just go to any popular ramp on a weekend and watch the weekend warriors. The anxiety level is high. They will prove to you in a manner of minutes, just what can happen to inexperience boaters when approaching the dock. The results can be costly in terms of boat damage, and unsafe for operators and passengers.
Jimmy Holbrook is a frequent competitor on various catfish tournament trails and a dedicated recreational anger. He understands the importance of using wind and current to your advantage. In the end it is all about boat control and a slow approach.
“I always try to get either down wind or down current from the dock that I am approaching,” explained Holbrook. “My objective is to come in slow and turn towards the dock or ease up beside it. Powering into the wind or current allows me to control boat speed and direction.”
“When docking in heavy current you want to get the front and back of the boat tied off as quick as possible,” added Holbrook. “If you don’t tie up quickly the wind will blow the loose end off the dock fast. For that reason, I have my ropes already tied off to the boat and ready to hook to dock when I pull up.”
A slow approach is the key to a safe and affective docking of your boat. If you use fenders, be sure to deploy them early in preparation of docking. Take notice of the wind and current direction and use it to your advantage, always powering into the wind or current if possible. As you near your docking target come off the power and coast, using small bursts of power, either forward or backward to stop your motion at the appropriate place. Have your dock lines ready to tie off.
Having a mate on board makes the whole process of tying off a snap, but If you don’t have a mate using a device like the BOATSTIX can help. This handy device allows easy access to dock pilings or cleats when tying to the dock. It virtually eliminates getting hands or feet between the boat and the dock, resulting in a safe and easy docking. It comes in two handy sizes to fit most situations.
As you slowly approach the dock place the loop from the BOATSTIX over the cleat or piling. Pull the cord tight, wrap the cleat on the boat, and you are securely docked. In crowded docking situations, you can also use the BOATSTIX to “stack” your boat by securing it to another boat.
The same device can be used while fishing. Catfish like wood and when you can tie up securely on heavy timber it gives you the opportunity to present the bait vertically and avoid hangs. Your catch rate is sure to go up. Simply approach the timber slowly and slip the loop over a limb and cinch it up tight.
There is no doubt that anglers will find plenty more opportunities to use the BOATSTIX to secure their fishing position. Be creative and discover the many ways you can use this multi-purpose device to make your boating and fishing life better.
