LIFE JACKETS ARE ESSENTIAL
Good swimmers still need life jackets. When people fall off a boat, they may become disoriented, injured or unconscious. Life jackets can keep victims’ heads above water so they can breathe and be rescued more easily. Every child should wear a life jacket at all times when boating. Choose the right life jacket for the activities you will be doing. Double-check to make sure the life jackets are U.S. Coast Guard approved and fit correctly: Hold your arms straight up over your head, ask a friend to grasp the tops of the arm openings and gently pull up; make sure there is no excess room above the openings and that the jacket does not ride up over your chin or face
GET EDUCATED, REDUCE RISKS
Take a safety course and become familiar with the local boating laws. When operating a motorized boat, know about carbon monoxide; this odorless, colorless poisonous gas is emitted by all combustion engines and onboard motor generators. Check that your equipment is in good working order; get a free vessel safety check with your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadron. Review a pre-departure checklist to ensure you have everything you need in your boat, including a tool kit and first-aid kit. Before you leave, always file a float plan with someone you trust. Don’t forget the sunscreen and know the signs of heat illnesses
EXERCISE GOOD JUDGMENT
Respect your limits and keep within your limits to avoid injury
Don’t drink and drive a boat; alcohol affects judgment, vision, balance, and coordination. Once on the water, use common sense; in a split second, a situation can arise or the weather can turn. If you notice storm clouds, a sudden temperature drop or wind speed increasing, play it safe and get off the water.
SAFETY TIPS FOR WATER SKIERS, TUBERS, AND WAKEBOARDERS
Learn how to get up out of the water and how to use the tow rope safely. Always have a spotter in the boat, and go over essential hand signals. Make certain the towline is not caught in the propeller or wrapped around you prior to beginning. Wait for the propeller to stop before getting back on the boat. Enjoy these activities during daylight hours only
SUMMER FISHING
REDFISH, TROUT, BLACK DRUM, MACKEREL, SHARKS
This is an excellent time to go fishing because there are so many options. On the inshore waters, you’ll find redfish, flounder, trout, black drum, mackerel, and various sharks using a combination of lures and live bait tactics. Given the right conditions you may also get up on the shallow short grass flats in search of tailing redfish…if you like to “hunt for fish” this is the ultimate experience! Out in the sound, you will find the mighty tarpon, many of which go over 100 pounds and put on a remarkable ariel show. Mixed in with the tarpon will be good numbers of sharks such as blacktips, duskies and bonnet heads. There is also some great action off of the beach and on the nearshore wrecks for species such as cobia, jacks, mackerel, whiting, and sea bass. Summer fishing has something for everyone!
BOOK A CHARTER
Private and Semi-private charters are available all year. We have partnered with several local captains to provide you and your guests with a successful day on the water!
In-shore, near-shore, and off-shore/deep-sea itineraries are available. Pickup and dropoff is from Community Dock and everything is included and provided for you: rods, tackle, bait, and beverages. The tides dictate times to ensure the most successful trip.
Please contact Lauren Hunt at [email protected] to book your charter or with any questions.
