Thread: Spring at the ramp

Originally Posted by mrdux

I had a heated conversation with a northern tourist last year on the ramp I use. He backed his bass boat right down the middle of the 2 lane ramp, got his tool box out, and proceeded to start working on his outboard. I asked him if he realized he was keeping a line of fishermen from launching? He blew me off then started mouthing things that would get his arse kicked in most situations. I just shoe-horned my trailer within inches of his and launched my boat. After I parked, I let him know how stupid and inconsiderate he was. By that time he kept his mouth shut because the line of upset boaters had grown to several who were now standing on the ramp.

He was still in the same spot when I left the marina with clients. Some folks think the world revolves around them.

You know, I’ve always wondered where this mentality comes from. We can blame parents, feeling privileged, etc. However, staying on task with this conversation, you see others launching while respecting others. Wouldn’t you just conform? I mean, I would think no one would want to look like an idiot!? Even those who feel superior would nullify that appearance by looking like they don’t know what they’re doing. I’ve had problems at the ramp, and I’m working like a madman to avoid inconveniencing others. If I don’t understand a process, I’m going to watch others from a respectable distance to see how it’s done. Maybe even ask a few questions. I can make friends with a stump, and I have usually found that others are willing to offer friendly advice, and usually assist me. Especially here in my beloved South! I once had my motor stick in the downward tilt position, and a stranger got in the water with me to assist. He got wet, but seemed happy to help. Another time, my boat got loose, and a guy who had just finished loading a pontoon, re launched to take me to it. In turn, I have assisted others having problems or lack of knowledge. All this being said, where did we learn this behavior? IMO, it takes an incredible amount of privileged stupidity to act like this! I still don’t get it!