Boat Ramp Usage this Summer

During the peak fishing period, boat ramp space is at its premium and the need for common sense and consideration is basic. There are some rules and then there’s boat ramp etiquette.

It’s not only illegal to leave a boat, car or trailer unattended and obstructing a public boat ramp at an inland water in Tasmania (with penalties up to $600) but it’s incredibly frustrating to fellow boating anglers.

The IFS recently installed parking advisory signs at Swan Bay boat ramp, Great Lake, in response to a number of calls from anglers reporting difficulty due to thoughtless trailer parking. The signs are designed to provide enough area for the turning of trailers and launching or retrieving boats, and to maximise use of the available parking space. Naturally the signs will only be of use if anglers respond accordingly. And that’s where boat ramp etiquette is important.

It is in everyone’s interest to launch and retrieve boats effectively and efficiently, to leave enough space for the next person and minimise time spent on the boat ramp. The aim is to enjoy the whole fishing experience and avoid spoiling a good day on the water with an unsavoury incident at the boat ramp. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

Be polite, think ahead and keep your cool. Minimise the time you spend on the boat ramp by preparing yourself and your boat beforehand in the car park or at home.

Don’t rush to get ahead of the queue but check the state of the boat ramp and the approach first. Load your gear, check the bungs and safety gear, erect aerials and remove tie-down straps and trailer lights (if necessary) in the car park. If you haven’t already tested your boat’s motor at home, then make sure you do so in the water before you unhook the boat from the trailer.

Remember that where the boat ramp is designed for two lanes, don’t reverse down the centre of the boat ramp taking up both lanes.

After launching, move your boat away from the ramp and simultaneously, have someone park your car. If you’re on your own, berth your boat promptly out of the way of launching boats and move your car off the ramp ready for the next person to launch. Park your car and trailer so as not to obstruct the maneuvering of others.

On returning to the boat ramp, keep your boat out of the way while the trailer is retrieved from the car park and run the winch cable out in the car park so it is ready to hook the boat on. Once the boat is correctly on the trailer, attach the safety chain and quickly drive clear of the ramp so it is free for others to use.

Do all your preparation for the tow home in the car park and remove any weed or algae that may have attached to the boat or trailer before you leave the car park.