Got a chance to test my new boat

[silverside]

I finally, unintentionally, got a look of how my 17ft boat would respond in wind. The day was supposed to be an 8mph wind. No big deal so I went fishing. After 1 hour on the water, 8mph changed to a 24mph sustained wind. Easily 2 to 2.5 ft waves. The boat fished and traveled beautifully. Since I rarely even try 15 mph winds, I can feel safe if needed. The only problem was not with boat but with the occupants. I am 66yo with balance issues. My passenger is older with no fears. We soon discovered that the only way to move around the boat was on hands and knees or risk getting a swim. Getting old and having health issues sure suck the fun out of things.

Sent from my SM-S711U using Crappie.com Fishing mobile app

[Jamesdean]

I finally, unintentionally, got a look of how my 17ft boat would respond in wind. The day was supposed to be an 8mph wind. No big deal so I went fishing. After 1 hour on the water, 8mph changed to a 24mph sustained wind. Easily 2 to 2.5 ft waves. The boat fished and traveled beautifully. Since I rarely even try 15 mph winds, I can feel safe if needed. The only problem was not with boat but with the occupants. I am 66yo with balance issues. My passenger is older with no fears. We soon discovered that the only way to move around the boat was on hands and knees or risk getting a swim. Getting old and having health issues sure suck the fun out of things.

Sent from my SM-S711U using Crappie.com Fishing mobile app

I agree!!! Congrats on getting it wet!!!

[SuperDave336]

Be careful out there. Wear those pfd’s. Glad the boat did good for you.

[BON TEMPS]

Safety First
However, continue to fish as long as you can.

[BAMA S]

I feel your pain as a 60 yo massive stroke survivor. I wobble some times. Lol. But I get er dun somehow. And no balance beats being 6 ‘ under.

[DWILL]

I remember standing on the edge of the boat. Now I've talked about buying a deep v or pontoon boat. I don't feel as stable on my feet as I once did.

[JUNGLEJIMJIGS]

Congrats on your new ride. Hope you got some fish slime in the boat for your effort. I don't have a boat but on windy days from the bank I feel unsteady. I don't take chances like I used too. Quit wading rivers by myself and no more jumping from boulder to boulder to get to the best spots.

[rich mc]

been thinking of adding a front leaning post/rail to my 18ft jon boat. similar to the drift boat system a guide had last year. at 68.5 yrs i am blessed with good health, but my angler friends are older. this also takes strain from your back .

[happycaster58]

10-15 mph is my limit now. Last year, I tried to fish by myself and the boat blew back on the trailer sideways before I could get out of the truck to the rope on the hitch during launch! When I came back in, waves were coming over the stern on with the boat ON the trailer!

[Yak Fish]

Glad to hear that your new boat handled rough water & winds well. Definitely keep those PFDs on for the ones who love you. I hope your next trip gives you better conditions and the fish offer a strong bite.

Jim