Having your own boat makes a big difference to your fishing experience. Whether it is a dinghy, deck boat, or motor yacht, your own fishing boat gives you the freedom and flexibility to fish not just from the shore, but out in open water.
Â
As a boat owner, you have to make sure to register your boat. Registering a boat is required by law. The rules vary from state to state, but generally speaking, you must complete a form, present identification as evidence of ownership, pay a fee, and renew your registration on a regular basis.
Â
Check out this list of boat registation agencies by state.
Â
Â
Boating registration benefits
Having said that, the benefits of registering a boat go beyond just following the law. In many states, boater registration requires you to complete a boating education course, which teaches you the rules of boating and what to do in case of an emergency. If you get into a mishap, your boat registration is used for identification. Itâs also helpful in case your boat gets stolen or lost.
Â
Meanwhile, a portion of the boat registration fee is used to support boating safety programs such as search-and-rescue efforts, boater education, and waterway marking, among others.
Â
So, by registering your boat, youâre helping ensure safety not only for yourself but also for other boaters.
Â
Boating safety tips
Speaking of boating safety, here are some tips to keep in mind the next time youâre heading out into the water.
Â
- Before your fishing trip, check if the weather is good and safe for boating. Once youâre out in the water, however, be on the lookout for signs of an approaching storm, like sudden gusts of wind, dark clouds, or a drastic drop in temperature. Forecasts arenât perfect. It's always better to be safe than sorry, so head for the nearest dock when you feel the weather is going to turn bad.
Â
- Know your boat's safe carrying capacity. Never overload with people or cargo.
Â
- Have a safety kit for emergencies. It should contain the essentials for any situation. Some items you should consider packing are: a flashlight, whistle, bucket, ropes, and a first aid kit. Have your boating registration documents on board, as well.
Â
- Bring life jackets. Every person on board the boat should have one. Try on your life jacket before you head out to make sure it fits properly.
Â
Â
Boat accessories
If youâre interested in decking your fishing boat with useful fishing accessories, check out these picks:
Â
Â
Thereâs nothing quite like having your own fishing boat. You get to decide where to head and cast from wherever you want. Just be sure to register it, follow the rules and safety tips. While we all want to land the fish of a lifetime, our safety should always be the priority.
Â
Don't miss this list of fishing must-haves.
Â
MOST READ NEWS:
The Great Fishing Debate: Catch and Keep vs. Catch and Release
The fishing world is full of passionate people with strong opinions, which makes sense because we all care deeply about the sport and the waters we're lucky to enjoy. Now and again, we enjoy friendly debates on whether live bait or artificial lure is better, whether or not fishing attractants are good, or whether social media and other technologies are ruining fishing or enhancing it.
Is Overfishing Still a Problem?
One of the main causes of reductions in maritime animal populations is fishing. Overfishing occurs when fish are harvested quicker than they can reproduce, which makes it difficult for them to maintain a healthy population. We must take action to end overfishing as it is a global phenomenon that has harmed and is still harming our oceans.
Overfishing often goes hand in hand with bycatch, where enormous quantities of undesired fish or other animals are caught, and then later discarded.
5 Questions with Tim Anderson (@timtombanjo2)
We asked Tim Anderson, an angler from Texas, five questions to uncover his fishing background, most memorable fishing escapades, and must-have gear to get to know him better. Check out his answers in this blog.
Spring Fishing Checklist: What To Prepare Before Hitting the Water This Spring
Spring has sprung and it's time to go fishing! With the sun shining and the weather warming up, it's the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors and take advantage of some excellent fishing opportunities.
Get to Know Sean Frado (@fishingfanatics_NTX)
Sean Frado is an angler located in Fort Worth, Texas who loves âthe idea of competition between man and fish.â He hopes to unite the fishing community and encourage outdoor recreation.
How To Choose a Fishing Charter
Booking a fishing charter is a popular and convenient way to enjoy a day on the water. Whether youâre an experienced angler or a newcomer to the sport, a well-planned fishing charter can provide you with a memorable fishing experience.
How To Keep Your Fishing Gear in Good Condition
Did you know that one of the most important things you need to learn and practice to ensure a great fishing experience is fishing gear care and maintenance?