Boat Ramp Etiquette to Help You This Summer!

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As we are well into summer and boating season, we felt it was important to share some boating rules of the road and launch-ramp etiquette.  Ramp rage is a real thing and is often provoked by boaters who do not know the rules of the ramp, or worse, don't care that they are inconveniencing other boaters waiting in line.  So, this week, Firstmate Controls is sharing with you a few boat ramp etiquette rules to follow.  We hope these guidelines help you to avoid ramp rage from ruining your day on the water!


Be Ready to Launch BEFORE Getting in Line

There are a lot of things to check and recheck before launching your boat.  Waiting until you are in the middle of a long line at a busy boat ramp is not the time to perform these tasks.  When you pull into the parking lot, we suggest you move to the side and let others go ahead and dump their boats.  Put your plug in, take your straps off, take your motor toter off, plug in your graphs, put your lights in—whatever you have to do—BEFORE clogging up the line.  Not only does this drastically help the flow of traffic, but it also ensures that you are doing everything properly and safely because you’re not being rushed.  Just move to the side, sip your coffee, and take your time.  Your fellow boaters will thank you!

Don't Be a Ramp Hog

A lot of marinas have multiple boat ramp lanes, but no concrete dividers.  Essentially, they look like one really wide ramp.  When the facility is busy, do not go down the very middle of the ramp.  That just clogs things up for everyone else in line.  Dump your boat on the farthest side of the ramp as possible so that other folks can launch next to you.  There is no reason one trailer needs to take up multiple lanes.


Ask Permission Before Tying Up to Another Boat

While it may seem harmless, some people would prefer you not tie up to their boat.  Be respectful and politely ask permission before tying up to someone else’s boat if there’s no more dock space left.  It’s a good idea to keep a few cheap bumper buoys in your rod locker.  This will ensure there’s no damage to the fiberglass, aluminum, or rub rails on either boat.  And to further extend on that, don’t walk across someone else’s boat without permission.  You do not want to accidentally step on their fishing gear or equipment and break anything.

Hold the Chit-Chat for After You've Parked Your Truck

We understand that getting on the water is just the beginning of a great day well spent, and everyone is in a fantastic mood.  However, catching up at the ramp is NOT the ideal time or place.  More than likely, you're not the only one trying to unload their boat, and your parked truck is slowing traffic, taking up an entire lane and probably irritating some people in line.  Be respectful and get your rig out of the way - then you can talk to your heart’s content!

By following these simple boat ramp etiquette rules, you will get on the water more quickly and avoid an unnecessary altercation at the ramp!  If you've got your own dock, save yourself time and money by getting a Firstmate Boat Lift Remote Control for your lift and get on and off the water smoother and faster.  No more hassle, no more irritation, just fun in the sun on the water.  Contact us today to get your boat lift remote control ordered for this boating season!

Boat Lift Controls You Can Count On!

Firstmate Controls 
130 Century Commerce Loop
Labadie, MO 63055

Phone: (866) 570-9707

Follow us on:   Facebook    Twitter    LinkedIn
Location: Labadie, MO 63055, USA

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