Boating slang glossary

I’ve come across a variety of boating glossaries. Some are serious and some are only for humor.

Missing is a glossary that includes real world slang. This would be actual words boaters use yet do not appear in traditional boating glossaries.

I put together the below boating slang glossary.

Blowboater - this is a power boater talking derogatory about sail boaters, referring to the sails. Also see Snailboater.

Boataholic – a person who is passionate about boating.

Boating Dollars - money exclusively stashed away for boating related expenses.

Canboat - this is a power boater talking derogatory about pontoon boaters, referring to the aluminum pontoons that resemble beer cans.

Coasties – referring to the United States Coast Guard, or any water law enforcement member who has served or is serving.

Deadheads (also called sinker logs or snags) – a submerged log causing a serious hazard. Impact at a high speed with a deadhead can punch a hole in a large boat or destroy a small one.

Five By Five, or Five By - Means your radio is load and clear. The first numerical value (1-5) states the strength of your signal, the second numerical value (1-5) states the clarity of your signal.

Footitus – a desire to get a larger boat.

GoFast or GoFast/GoLoud – refers to boats built for speed. These boats are often very loud.

Oilburner – a boat with a Diesel engine.

On the hard - has two meanings. Those that don't know how to park boat in a slip properly and those who are having work done on the boat.

On the hook – a boat that is anchored.

Poleboarder – a term that a kitesurfer uses for windsurfers (like power vs sail boats)

Powerlandar – using your engine to drive onto your trailer.

Sawyers – fallen trees that are still floating. A serious boating hazard. Similar to Deadheads however the log would still be floating.

Smiles per Gallons - regardless of cost, enjoying boating.

Snailboater - this is a power boater talking derogatory about sail boaters, referring to the sails. Also see Blowboater

Soup – another term for fog.

Splash – putting your boat in the water.

Stinkpot –this is a sail boater talking derogatory about gas power boaters, referring to the engine smell.

Velcrumbs - the unwanted items that sticks to velcro

Water gnats – derogatory term for personal water craft, wave runners or jet ski’s.

Yarditus – same as footitus but looking to move up to a much larger boat.

Sawyers – fallen trees that are still floating. A serious boating hazard. Similar to Deadheads.

W0X0F - Pronounced wox-off. It means that you are fogged in Acronym W = weather 0 = 1st zero means you can not see horizontally X = obscured visibility 0 = 2nd zero means you can not see vertically F = Fog

Winnebago Rally planning meeting April 14th 2007

April 14, 2007 Winnebago Rally planning meeting. "The Other Place," in Winneconne at 1:00PM. This is on the the Wolf River so you can come by boat or car. Please see this link for an update. link http://www.winnebagorally.com

Boating event in Appleton July 21st

Fox River Water Safety & Development Public Education Event
Saturday, July 21, 2007
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Lutz Park, 1320 S. Lutz Drive, Appleton, WI

Event will Include:
• Appleton Economic Development
• Appleton Fire Department
• Appleton Parks & Recreation
• Outagamie County Sheriff
• Fox River Navigational Authority
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
• United States Coast Guard Auxiliary
• Northeast Wisconsin Paddlers
• Friends of the Fox

JOIN THE FUN!
Learn About Boating Regulations, Boating Safety, Swimming, Riverfront development, The Fox River Locks system restoration-when it will open and how you can use it, Historical information about the Fox River and surrounding area.

Watch the paddlers arrive that are participating in the Park-to-Park Paddle event.
See a simulated water rescue and kayak demo

Source

Check the dates on your flairs and check your safety equipment

1 in 4 boaters that requested a voluntary vessel safety inspection failed to meet the minimum legally required safety requirements. The most common reason for failing the inspection is expired flairs.

If you fail the voluntary vessel safety inspection no citations will be given. However they will supply you with a copy of the evaluation so you may follow some of the suggestions given.

Passing the inspections will be able to display a distinctive VSC decal. This does not exempt you from law enforcement boarding, but you can be prepared to make this a positive encounter.

You can get a free vessel safety inspection by contacting your local coast guard auxiliary or power squadron. Often they can offer coming to you to perform the inspection. Upon passing this inspection you will get a vessel decal to display on your boat.

You can also request the free inspection online here http://safetyseal.net/

To perform a self-examination please follow the below guide.

Item 1 - Display of Numbers:
The boat’s registration number must be permanently attached to each side of the forward half of the boat They must be plain, vertical, block characters, not less than three (3) inches high, and in a color contrasting with the background. A space or hyphen must separate the letters from the numbers. Place State tax sticker according to State policy.

(e.g. WS 4776 GT or WS-4776-GT)

Item 2 - Registration / Documentation:

Registration or Documentation papers must be on board and available. Documentation numbers must be permanently marked on a visible part of the interior structure. The documented boat’s name and hailing port must be displayed on the exterior hull in letters not less than 4 inches in height. To be documented a boat must be 5 net tons or greater.

Item 3 - Personal Flotation Devices (PFD):

Acceptable PFDs (also known as Life Jackets) must be U.S. Coast Guard approved, in good serviceable condition, and of suitable size for the each person on the boat. Children must have properly fitted PFDs designed for children. Wearable PFDs shall be "readily accessible." Throwable devices shall be "immediately available." PFDs shall NOT be stored in unopened plastic packaging. For Personal Watercraft riders, the PFD must be worn and indicate an impact rating. Boats 16 Feet or longer, must also have one Type IV.

Item 4 - Visual Distress Signals (VDS):

Recreational boats 16 feet and over used on coastal waters or the Great Lakes are required to carry a minimum of either 1) three day and three night pyrotechnic devices, 2) one day non-pyrotechnic device (flag) and one night non-pyrotechnic device (auto SOS light) or 3) a combination of 1) and 2). Recreational boats less than 16 feet on coastal waters or the Great Lakes need only carry night visual distress signals when operating from sunset to sunrise.

It is recommended, but not required, that boats operating on inland waters should have some means of making a suitable day and night distress signal. The number and type of signals is best judged by considering conditions under which the boat will be operating. Alternatives to pyrotechnic devices (flares) include:

Night Day
Strobe light Signal mirror
Flashlight Red or orange flags
Lantern Hand signals

Special insert: Check the expiration date on your flairs. If you need to purchase new flairs please check the dates on the flairs you are purchasing.

Flairs may work past their expiration date however to meet the U.S Coast Guard requirements the flairs that you are required to carry must not have exceeded the expiration date on the label.

I have experienced shopping for flairs at retail stores where the inventory was already close to the date of expiration.

Item 5 - Fire Extinguishers:
Fire extinguishers are required if one of the following conditions exists: (1) Inboard engine(s); (2) Closed compartments that store portable fuel tanks; (3) Double bottom hulls not completely sealed or not completely filled with flotation materials (4) Closed living space (5) Closed stowage compartments that contain flammable materials or (6) Permanently installed fuel tanks NOTE: Fire extinguishers must be readily accessible and verified as serviceable.

Minimum number of extinguishers required

Boat Length No Fixed System With Fixed System
Less than 26’ one B-1 none
26’ to less than 40’ two B-1 or one B-2 one B-1
40’ to 65’ three B-1 or
one B-1 & one B-2 two B-1 or
one B-2

Item 6 - Ventilation:

Boats with gasoline engines in closed compartments, built after 1 August 1980 must have a powered ventilation system. Those built prior to that date must have natural or powered ventilation.

Boats with closed fuel tank compartments built after 1 August 1978 must meet requirements by displaying a "certificate of compliance." Boats built before that date must have either natural or powered ventilation in the fuel tank compartment.

Item 7 - Backfire Flame Control:

All gasoline powered inboard/outboard or inboard motor boats must be equipped with an approved backfire flame control device.

Item 8 - Sound Producing Devices / Bell:

To comply with Navigation Rules and for distress signaling purposes all boats must carry a sound producing device (whistle, horn, siren, etc.) capable of a 4-second blast audible for ½ mile. Boats larger than 39.4 ft. are also required to have a bell (see Navigation Rules.) Under a recent change, a vessel 12 meters (39.4 ft) to less than 20 meters (65 ft) is no longer required to carry a bell on board. This applies ONLY to those vessels operating in International Waters. International waters for the purposes of the Navigational Rules are those waters seaward of the Line of Demarcation. For those vessels operating in Inland Waters, a bell is STILL REQUIRED.

Item 9 - Navigation Lights:

All boats must be able to display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and in conditions of reduced visibility. Boats 16 feet or more in length must have properly installed, working navigation lights and an all-around anchor light capable of being lit independently from the red/green/white "running" lights.

Item 10 - Pollution Placard:

Boats 26 feet and over with a machinery compartment must display an oily waste "pollution" placard.

Item 11 - MARPOL Trash Placard:

Boats 26 feet and over in length must display a "MARPOL" trash placard. Boats 40 feet and over must also display a written trash disposal plan.

Item 12 - Marine Sanitation Devices:

Any installed toilet must be a Coast Guard approved device. Overboard discharge outlets must be capable of being sealed.

Item 13 - Navigation Rules:

Boats 39.4 feet and over must have on board a current copy of the Navigation Rules.

Item 14 - State and/ or Local Requirements:

These requirements must be met before the "Vessel Safety Check" decal can be awarded. A boat must meet the requirements of the state in which it is being examined.
Contact your local marine law enforcement agency.
Item 15 - Overall Vessel condition:

As it applies to this Vessel. Including, but not limited to:

a. Deck free of hazards and clean bilge:

The boat must be free from fire hazards, in good overall condition, with bilges reasonably clean and visible hull structure generally sound. The use of automobile parts on boat engines is not acceptable. The engine horsepower must not exceed that shown on the capacity plate.

b. Safe Electrical and Fuel Systems:

The electrical system - Must be protected by fuses or manual reset circuit breakers. Switches and fuse panels must be protected from rain or water spray. Wiring must be in good condition, properly installed and with no exposed areas or deteriorated insulation. Batteries must be secured and terminals covered to prevent accidental arcing.. If installed, self-circling or kill switch mechanism must be in proper working order. All PWCs require an operating self circling or kill switch mechanism.

Fuel Systems - Portable fuel tanks (normally 7 gallon capacity or less) must be constructed of non-breakable material and free of corrosion and leaks. All vents must be capable of being closed. The tank must be secured and have a vapor-tight, leak-proof cap. Each permanent fuel tank must be properly ventilated.

c. Safe Galley and Heating Systems:

System and fuel tanks must be properly secured with no flammable materials nearby.

Source http://safetyseal.net/what_is_vsc.asp

Do you have a boating related question?

Boating related question?

If you have a boating related question, epically if the question pertains to the area of Lake Winnebago, Fox or Wolf River of Wisconsin, please post it to the WiParty message forum.

http://wiparty.com/forum/

Friends of the Fox Annual Meeting Saturday May 19th, 2007

From the Friends of the Fox president Bob Stark


DEDICATION & DEMONSTRATION TO BE HELD AT APPLETON LOCKS # 2

RE-DISCOVER THE PAST WHILE YOU LOOK INTO THE FUTURE


For Immediate Release April 5, 2007


(Appleton, WI) – After nearly 2 years of preparation, the Friends of The Fox – in conjunction with Fox River Navigational System Authority, Appleton Sesquicentennial, and CR Meyer Construction Company are ready to unveil the completely restored Appleton locks 1& 2 to the public. After major renovation and new construction, it’s no surprise that boaters and historians alike will be anxious to view, tour, and witness the operation of the restored locks.

“We wanted to show everyone what we have been working on and celebrate what we’ve accomplished so far” said Robert Stark (President of Friends of The Fox and Chairman of the Fox River Navigational System Authority). “After giving a lot of thought to how we want to celebrate this historic event, one idea seemed to make the most sense…….invite everyone over to the locks for a demonstration and tour so they can experience the excitement for themselves”, said Brunhilde Courtney (Friends of The Fox Board Member and Event Coordinator). In addition, people will be able to hear from fund raisers, engineers, and other people who have been instrumental in the success of the project every step of the way. “It’s also a great time to ask questions and satisfy one’s curiosities” said Stark.

This waterside event will feature dignitaries from State and local levels and is open to the general public. In addition guests will be able to enjoy refreshments (for purchase) as well as free boat rides. The following day (May 20th 2007), the 2 locks will be operational from 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. for boaters who wish to lock through. Harlan Kiesow, CEO of Fox River Navigational System Authority, stated there will be no charge for boaters on May 20th however lock usage and safety procedures will be in effect with oversight by the lock tenders.

“We want this event to be more than a celebration – we want it to be a window into the future that shows the public what’s to come along the Fox River” Stark said.

Where: Appleton Lock #2
CBC Parking Lot, Olde Oneida Street, Adjacent to Lock #2
Appleton, WI

When: Saturday May 19th , 2007
1 P.M to 4:00 P.M.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Bob Stark, President Harlan Kiesow, CEO
Friends of The Fox Fox River Navigational System Authority
(920) 809-6407 (920) 202-1855
robertjstark@sbcglobal.net lock269735@sbcglobal.net


Webiste
http://www.friendsofthefox.org/

The sextant - a funny story

My husband and I were trying to figure out what to get my father for his 70th birthday. He has everything he needs and dislikes modern electronics. At the core he is a sailor.



Doug suggested I buy him a sextant. A sextant is a measuring instrument used to measure the angle of elevation of a celestial object above the horizon. Long ago, before the GPS, this instrument was used to determine your location.

I called the local sporting goods store asking if they carried a sextant and was transferred to ‘that department.’ When the next employee answered the phone I again asked if they carried a sextant. The person replied “lady, we carry a wide variety of tents however what you do inside them is your business.”

Tri-County Powerboat Alliance

The Tri-County Powerboat Alliance has just launched its website.

Below is information about the Tri-County Powerboat Alliance


Who are we?

The Tri-County Powerboat Alliance is a non-profit organization with a mission to make our waterways a safe place for recreational use. Our vision is to preserve our waterways while maintaining its navigability, accessibility, and fair and equitable use by all recreational users.



What do we do?

Our organization is very active in promoting safe boating, including through the provision of boater education. We also work hard to preserve the Wolf River while maintaining its navigability, accessibility, and fair and equitable use by all recreational users.



What have we accomplished?

We have many accomplishments that we are proud of! For example, we have:

Provided boater education classes
Organized river cleean-up projects
Provided signs and navigational aids
Provided public informational meetings
Provided funding for dredging
Provided input to state officials as needed to ensure protection of our waterways

Tri-County Powerboat Alliance
PO Box 323
Fremont, WI 54940
Email us at : tcpa@centurytel.net





Tri-County Powerboat Alliance

Lake Winnebago Spring refill conference April 3, 2007

Spring refill conference April 3, 2007 9:30 AM notes

Pleaste read: These are my notes. The officinal notes will be posted to the below website in a few weeks. Also, my apology for spelling, expically name spelling. Assume the spelling of the name is incorrect. I did my best.

US Army cops of engineers Website for the Lake Winnebago basin
http://www.lre.usace.army.mil/greatlakes/hh/lakewinnebago/

The ACOE has opened these meetings to the public. One thing I have learned by attending and listening to the meeting is the difficult position they are in. There are many stakeholders in this Lake Winnebago water basin and they have different and conflicting needs.

Introductions – lots of people including many people from the army corps of engineers. Marie is the point person to the ACOE on this call.

Bob Stanic – Kaukauna utility
(missed name) - City of Menasha parts and recreation
Art Decko – DNR
Bruce / Mike – Kaukauna utilities
Tom Davy – Winnebago water conservation department
Skip Palermo - Appleton yacht club
WHBY radio
Many people from around the Lake Winnebago basin area

ACOE started by stating their primary goal is flood control.
Goal is flood damage reduction. They must balance with needs of DNR, wildlife, utilities, boaters, and land owners however they made it clear by stating since the locks are not owned by the federal government they are “No longer responsible for marine navigation – flood control is there goal.”

Water level goals:
Current level = 2.09 Oshkosh
Goal by May 1st 2.4-2.7
By July 1 the goal is to be at 3.0 and maintain between 3.0 and 3.3

ACOE stated there is a slight chance of above average precipitation this spring. National weather service confirmed this.

As of today Wolf River is quite high and is in flood forecast; this means it’s just below flood stage.

Ice covers / current refill as of today
As of 29 March the Wisconsin DNR determined ice out conditions on Lake Winnebago.
As a result, a slow and controlled spring fill began. However, sufficient storage capacity must be maintained for flood storage and ecosystem establishment.

Current inflow is about 9,500 cfs while outflow is approximately 8,500 cfs.

Operation band changed for May 1st to June 1st 2.4-2.7 (actual target is 2.4) then starting in June they would like to raise the lake to 3.0 then by July 1st 3.3. NOTE: This is NEW and HIGHER then in the past of 3.0 and maintain. They need to have the range low to the bottom of the band in spring to avoid flooding.

In recent years the post June 1st has been dry. If there is no precipitation then the water level will not rise. They must take into consideration flood control in the spring. There is a lot of wet weather and a lot of precipitation coming.

DNR guy (sorry I missed his name – Art I think) He wants the fill slowed and feel its filling too fast now.

Kaukauna utility (sorry I missed his name) – concerned that the summer level has been too low and is concerned that past summer flow was too low. Also current flow today is past what they can utilize, meaning water is being wasted and not being turned into electricity.

(Missed the persons name) Depere sturgeon spawning – starts in late April. So the first part of May the eggs are incubating. Water level needs to be controlled (not dropped) during this time. So this means in May there is a need to keep the flow up. Low flow after spawn is problematic. Anything below 4,000 is very bad for the eggs.

Tom Davies – Winnebago County – asked Art about aquatic vegetation and concerned that high levels cause low light thus lack of vegetation. Art replied that presently it’s OK and he is happy with how it’s going.

Navigational Buoy placement – Fox River Navigational authority will open the Menasha lock May 11th. Brian w/city of Menasha said navigational buoy’s will be in by April 27th, 2007 in all of Winnebago County. This will be done by Radtke Contractors. Done likely by Friday for that Saturday.

May 12th (this is not correct. The date is May 19th) – Appleton locks opening celebration. Right now everything is fine for this.

Questions:
Winneconne – (missed his name- Bill ?) make a case about the need to reach a compromise for boat navigation. This call started with the ACOE saying ““No longer interest in navigation – only flood control. “

Marie from the ACOE responded – Mid 80’s locks were put into caretaker’s status, the locks have been turned over to the state. They no longer dredge in this area. They value the other stakeholders including boaters however the goal of the ACOE is flood control.

Art (DNR) said they are looking at the merge of the Fox and Wolf river area and looking at moving the buoys placement and possible dredging. Adjusting(raising) the water level for the entire system is not an option.

Bill (from Winneconne) replied back asking to get to 3.0 earlier due to the history of missing the goal.

Marie from ACOE mentioned the past few years had a fast transition from wet to dry and that is why they missed the summer targets and they are looking at a more aggressive flexible plan.

Bob Beon (spelling?) in Oshkosh – added that July is tool late, ½ the summer is gone. He added that the ACOE saying they are only interested in outflows is misleading since outflows controls the water levels.

Marie from ACOE said once they close the gates they can do no more. She restates that the ACOE does not control the water levels. Also restated the need of other interests including sturgeon spawning needing high flow in May, vegetation needing low spring levels, recreation including boating needing high levels, utilities needing continual flow, others.

We are at 2.09 right now. ACOE expects this to rise to 2.2 to 2.3 within the next week.

Marie from ACOE said 2.7 is a reasonable summer operating level.

She felt 2.4 to 2.5 by May 1st is a reasonable guess as to where they will be at.

Name not give, female waterfront land owner – “What does 3 mean?”

Marie from ACOE – 3.0 is a reference point at a location in Oshkosh. Crest of Menasha damn spillway is another reference. 1.5’ over spill is another common reference gauge.

Art (DNR) Since 1982 3.0 has been the goal. 3.0 is the normal summer goal for the past 25 years. The gauge has marks on it. The number is in relative terms and is not meant to be a specific depth.

Same Name not give, female waterfront land owner – “I am at Point Comfort, Winnebago – we are showing the bottom 20’ out form shore – this is very low for this time of year”

Marie from ACOE “2.09 is the current level.”

Marie – said that sediment depositing is causing fill-in in some locations however the water level at this time of year is not off compared to this time of year in past years.

Art Deco – DNR – “The spring teleconference call is not to determine the level Lake Winnebago but how fast we will get there.”

Bob Bexton – I'm just north of the other lady on Point Comfort. “You cant get a boat out, this is MUCH lower then in the past, not including the last 2 years. “

Complaints opened up about broken props, etc.

Judy – tri-county boat alliance. Will notes be posted?

Travis (ACOE) yes, in about 2-3 weeks.

Judy – gave her ID information and stated the need they have for volunteers on the Wolf River June 2nd.

Tricounty Powerboat Alliance
Wolf river cleanup date for 2007 is Sat June 2nd
No website yet however you can reach Jody Johnson at
TCPA@centurytel.net or call 920-446-3930 Judy Johnson

Doug Ales – WiPary - “Tank you for allowing us to participate in this teleconference. How long have there been the water level gauges other then Oshkosh? Is it possible the gauges are in error or have been tampered with?”

Marie ACOE “Since 1992 we have had 4 gauges. Data recorder and physical gauge. Gauges are located in Stockbridge, Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, and Menasha. Checking and testing is done to prevent tampering.

ACOE website address given – used real time data from site to show right now Lake Poygan is 9” higher then Lake Winnebago.

Tom Davis – Land and Water of Winnebago County – This system is a storm water retention system. The need is to protect the properties from flooding.

Marie from ACOE – Once again the ACOE goal is flood control.

Calumet Marina – when do you start the drawdown?

Marie from ACOE – Early January after ice cover is established.

No more questions – call was concluded.

Marine AIS (Automatic Identification System)

AIS (Automatic Identification System) can combine your GPS chartplotter / radar / gyro and marine VHF radio’s DSC information so when someone hails you can see where they are and who they are on your chartplotter or radar screen.

Combined with advanced an MARPA (Mini Automatic Radar Plotting Aid) the system will identify what vessels are on a potential collision course, will identify the vessel, display how long until impact and allow you to discretely hail this vessel.

Already mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) SOLAS requires AIS to be fitted aboard all ships greater than/equal to 300 gross tonnage for international voyages.

AIS holds great future promise to increase safety with wide spread use.

Marine satellite TV - the future

I think we have all seen the ads for the satellite TV systems that cost thousands of dollars. Fine for the wealthy amongst us but what about us regular folk?

One company is working on a much smaller , economical system, $470, one year free then $12.95/month.

Although its initially intended for the minivan market / kids programs I can see this growing.

Sirius, Chrysler team up to put satellite TV in your back seat
By James R. Healey, USA TODAY

In what's likely to start the newest in-car technology race, Chrysler and Sirius Satellite Radio (SIRI) announced Thursday that Sirius will beam three kids' TV channels to the back seats of 2008 Chrysler minivans, SUVs and big sedans with the right hardware.

http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2007-03-29-siri-chrysler-tv_N.htm
_________________

Marine Autopilot on a budget

Raymarine now offers a budget autopilot for smaller boats with hydraulic steering.

RAYMARINE SMARTPILOT ST6002S1 E12106 HYDRAULIC SYSTEM for $1052.00. You may also need a instillation kit, less then $100. Complete SmartPilot System package designed for medium sized inboard powerboats with hydraulic steering.Package consist of:ST6001 Control Head S1 Corepack with course computer, rudder reference and fluxgate compass Type 1 12 Volt Hydraulic Drive. This price is from http://www.byownerelectronics.com and was checked on March 20, 2007. You must add the item to your cart to see the actual sell price. Without doing this step you will only see the MAP (minimum markup price) and not the discount price. Don’t just buy it, call 866-735-5926 and make sure this is the correct unit for your boat.

The above system is basic and has no gyro so you will get some minor ‘back and forth sway’ as you go. This sway can be unnoticeable in calm conditions to very noticeable in rough seas. You can add the internal “G” gyro to the core pack for about $500 more. The gyro senses the boat pitch and compensates the rudder adjustment accordingly.

The above can be connected to a Chartplotter so you can follow routes and not just go point to point. As you approach a turn the system beeps, prompting you if it’s OK to make the turn.

This system is for smaller boats with hydrollic rams not over 14 cubic inches. Larger drives are also available.

As far ‘self-instillation’ this project is similar in instillation difficulty to installing a radar / GPS / Chartplotter / fish finder system.

Safely crossing big water on a small budget

Safely crossing big water on a small budget

I recently had a friend ask me for advice about taking his single engine cuddy cabin boat away from the coast about 25 to 30 miles. My recommendation to him was to not do this is such a small single engine craft however he is determined.

Given that talking him out of it was not going to happened and knowing that budget is a consideration I put together my advice for the above described situation. This would also apply to Great Lake crossing as well. I did not want him to become a statistic.

Again, cost is a significant factor so given the budget limitations I offer these suggestions for crossing big water on a small budget.

1 Education & training
2 Inspection
3 Planning
4 Safety equipment
5 Checking the weather
6 Wearing your life jacket


#1) Education / training Cost $0. You can take courses that cost money however they tend to be very economical. Come to think of it, taking the course is good advice for all boaters.

Boating classes are offered by the coast guard auxiliary, the local power squadron, the DNR and you can also take the boating safety course FREE online here http://www.boatingbasicsonline.com/
If you take the final exam there is a fee of $10. Upon passing this course you will get a certificate / wallet card. Many insurance companies give a discount upon providing them documentation that you successfully completed this course.

#2) Get a free vessel safety inspection. Cost $0. Like the above boating class, this should be done for all boaters. You contact the local coast guard auxiliary or the local power squadron and if you are launched they may offer coming to you to perform the inspection. Upon passing this inspection you will get a vessel decal to display on your boat. One place you can go to sigh up for this free inspection is here: http://safetyseal.net/

#3) File a float plan Cost $0. A float plan is a written document that includes a description of your boat and where you plan to go and when you plan to return. You leave this with a responsible person and check in with them as agreed. If you do not check in at the agreed time and can not reach you they contact the authorities and provide the information in the form.

Although there is no required from you must use the coast guard has made one you can download for free. You can download the form for free here http://floatplan.uscgaux.info/download/USCGFloatPlan.pdf

#4) Have the proper safety gear. Above the safety equipment required by law and reviewed in the free vessel safety inspection you will be in a higher risk activity. Because of this I have assembled the below risk.

A) Budget Life Raft - Assuming you are on a tight budget and have no paying passengers you can save money by purchasing a NON-USCG/SOLAS rated one. A 6-preson Valise (soft bag) Revere brand Cost $1,600. It will be 29” x 12” x 15.5”

This life raft is the size of a slightly large duffel bag, 29” x 12” x 15.5” and it has the actual life raft + CO-2 inflation system plus a equipment pack containing:
• 3 Red Hand Flares
• 1 Red Parachute Flare
• Bailer
• Signal Mirror
• Water Tight Flashlight
• Extra Flashlight Batteries
• Floating Knife
• Rescue Throwing Quoit
• Sponges
• Paddles
• Seasick Tablets
• Repair Kit

Using the buddy system, meaning you boat with other boats at all times can also work with or instead of a life raft however you must share the same schedule and be willing to mirror your boating movement.

B) PLB EPIRB GPS. This is a long acronym. It stand for (PLB) Personal Locator Beacon (EPIRB) Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons with internal (GPS) Global Positioning System. This device allows you to alert authorities that you need help and lets them know your location. Read the owners manual and register the product.

Keep this on your lifejacket you are wearing or in your ditch bag. The cost and size has come way down. A personal Locating Beacon or PLB with built in GPS runs about $550-$600. Consider the ACR 406 GPS I/O EPIRB or MCMURCO Fastfind 406 PLB with GPS.
Cost $600.

C) Hand held VHF in addition to the main 25 watt. Cost $100. Use marine band radios instead of commercial cell phones, which have limited coverage and are unreliable when out of sight of land. Get one that is waterproof and can take standard batteries and carry an additional set of batteries. A budget handheld waterproof VHF is the Uniten Atalntis 250 or cobra MR HH90 or Standard Horizon HX270S.

D) Floating ditch bag. A small ACR RepidDitch is $50. 19” x 15” x 7” Keep your safety gear in here and keep it in a spot you can grab easily. I recommend filling the bag with your PLB (unless you are wearing it, which is even better), your handheld VHF and spare batteries, your distress signaling devices (flares) and a first aid kit.

#5) Check the weather forecast early and often. Although you can spend thousands of dollars on sophisticated equipment you can get this information free via the VHF radio on the weather channels. Cost $0. If the weather is not favorable the trip needs to be delayed.

#6) I have saved the most important for last. Wear your life jacket. Cost of not leaving the life jacket stored = $0. Epically if anything goes array be it bad weather or a malfunction. They make life vests like the Type V that are inflatable so you can wear them without movement restrictions. A Type V vest must be worn to be counted as one of your onboard life vests.

So there you have it. The six most important items to reduce the risk to help you safely cross big water on a small budget.


This information was prepared by Presentation Rentals a audiovisual equipment rental company in Appleton Wisconsin now renting offers flat panel LCD displays and plasma televisions. Visit them on the web at http://www.presentationrentals.net

Boat - SeaRay Sundancer 240
Port - Slip #2A, Skipper Buds, Oshkosh, WI
Lisa

Lake Winnebago fill-up strategy 2007 conference call April 3, 2007

Lake Winnebago fill-up strategy 2007

The department of the Army – Detroit district corps of engineers will hold its Lake Winnebago fill-up strategy 2007 conference call on April 3rd at 9:30 AM cst.

This conference call is open to the public. To join the conference call please dial 888-455-9639 and enter 74654 when prompted to the pass code.

The agenda for the conference call is as follows:

Introduction and conference call guidelines

Basin conditions
Lake Winnebago water levels
Snow pack
River flows

Expected spring conditions

Fill-up timing and extent

Wrap-up session.

If you have any questions please feel free to call Mr. Travis Dahl at 313-266-2137.

This is the official site for the Army Corps with reguard to the levels on Lake Winnebago
http://www.lre.usace.army.mil/greatlakes/hh/lakewinnebago/

Lake Winnebago Boating Expo in Menaha WI

WiParty.com is hosting their first boating expo on April 21st 2007.

There was another local boating expo. On the WiParty boating forum http://wiparty.com/forum/ us fellow boaters started talking about what we wanted to see in a boating expo. Before long the plans were set to have a boating expo that met our desires as boaters.

Please come to this boating expo and let us know what you think.


Saturday, April 21st
Expo - 10 am- 6 pm.
After show party - 8 pm - bar close
Come to experience all there is to see and do on the Lake Winnebago system this summer, including marinas, restaurants, bars, parks, boat dealers and accessories.

The show will be held at Waverly Beach in the indoor volleyball court area. There will be designated space in the parking lot for boats.

• $5 admission at the door. Children ages 12 & under enter FREE! (when accompanied by an adult)

The after show party show will be free to all the people that have attended the show.
We will be selling tickets to those of you that would just like to come and see the band and
hang out with the great boating crowd we will have here. Hank’s Caboose, sponsored by
Budweiser, will be playing for us after 8 P.M.

Our current Sponsors and Vendors- Current attendees:
• Sweetwater Performance Center
• Thunder Valley-Bay Pointe Marina
• Budweiser
• Mr. Marine
• Lakeside Marina
• Winnebago Rally
• Appleton Yacht Club
• Shoreline Boat Center
• Fremont Watersports Rentals
• Shipyard Marine
• Marine Tops
• Wisconsin Camping & Recreation
• Century 21 Olympia
• Brooklyn’s Bar & Grill
• Skipper Buds
• Joe Mobile
• U.S. Coast Guard
• Menasha Marina
• Pamps Outbaord
• Pioneer Marina
• AJ Mobile Marine
• Customized Insurance Solutions Services, LLC
• West Marine
• Danielson Creative Photography
• Truck Essentials


More information and vendors to come! Keep an eye on this page for changes!
For vendors details - Expo@wiparty.com or call 920-540-0900

http://wiparty.com/LWexpo.html

2007 Lake Winnebago boating calendar

Below is a 2007 greater Fox Valley area Boating calendar.

If you have additional information, events or corrections please e-mail with the date, event details and a link to where more information is available.

January 2007
January 19-21 2007 Oshkosh are boat sale at the Sunny view expo center in Oshksoh WI.

January 19 thru 28 Milwaukee Boat show. (this event is not on the water) For details see http://www.showspan.com/mbs/

February 2007
February 15 thru 18 50th Annual WBAY Boat Show Veterans Memorial Arena and ShopKo Hall, across from Lambeau Field Green Bay. (this event is not on the water) For details see http://www.wbay.com/Global/story.asp?S=28391

February 17 Oshkosh Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics. American Legion 1393 Washington Ave.http://www.specialolympicswisconsin.org/plunge_oshkosh.html

March 2007
March 10, 2007 Winnebago Rally planning meeting. Antlers in Winchester. This is still tennative. Please see this link for an update. link http://www.winnebagorally.com

March 31ST Oshkosh Thunder Poker Run Promotions “Crack the Ice.” Summer Kickoff Party at the Hilton Garden Inn by the airport in Oshkosh. For questions, contact Mark or Amie Lee at 920.426.2145, Mark@OshkoshThunder.com (this event is not on the water) http://www.oshkoshthunder.com/For more info go to www.oshkoshthunder.com/

April 2007
April 14, 2007 Winnebago Rally planning meeting. "The Other Place," in Winneconne at 1:00PM. This is on the the Wolf River so you can come by boat or car. Please see this link for an update. link http://www.winnebagorally.com

April 21, 2007 WiParty.com Lake Winnebago Expo
http://wiparty.com/LWexpo.html The show will be held at Waverly Beach in Menasha Wisconsin. Expo - 10 am- 6 pm.

April 21, 2007 at "Hahn-A-Lula" Orihula/Fremont at 11 AM meeting
Tri-County Powerboat Alliance http://tcpaweb.googlepages.com/

April ??, 2007 Winnebago Rally planning meeting. This is still tennative. Please see this link for an update. link http://www.winnebagorally.com

May 2007
May 19, 2007 Friends of the Fox annual meeting at Appleton Lock #2 and presentation / status update. http://www.friendsofthefox.org/

May 19 at "The Other Place" Winneconne at 11 AM meeting
Tri-County Powerboat Alliance http://tcpaweb.googlepages.com/

Mid May Bridges become operational in Oshkosh (4) Menasha (2) and Winneconne (1) and the railroad bridge’s in Oshkosh (1) and Menasha (1) become operational for the season. Also the Menasha lock (1) becomes operational. In 2006, due to unseasonably nice weather the bridges and locks opened earlier than normal.

May 19 & 20 Oshkosh Fishing Has No Boundaries-anglers with disabilities Contact: Dr Bob Weber 920-424-1389 Menominee Park http://www.fhnbinc.org/./oshkosh.html also www.uwosh.edu/adaptedpe

June 2007
June 1 Lighthouse Regatta - Fond du Lac Lighthouse Sailboat Regatta

June 2nd Wolf River clean up meet at 8:30 AM at Partridge Lake beach, Fremont
Tri-County Powerboat Alliance http://tcpaweb.googlepages.com/

June 2 & 3 2007 Free State Fishing weekend (statewide)http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/fhp/fish/kidsparents/freefishingweekend.html

Jun 03 2007 Fond du Lac Art on the Island-Lakeside Park 10-4pm

June 8, 9, 10 2007 Walleye Weekend – Lakeside park, Fond du Lac. Festival, Fish fry, lumberjack show, music, Mercury Marine’s National Walleye Fishing Tournamenthttp://www.fdlfest.com/walleye_weekend.html

June 16th "Pine Grove" Hwy H, Fremont at 11 AM meeting
Tri-County Powerboat Alliance http://tcpaweb.googlepages.com/


June 16, 2007 Harbor Fest is scheduled for Saturday June 16 2007. Stockbridge Harbor. http://www.co.calumet.wi.us/departments2iml?dept_id=40#215

June , , ?? The Oshkosh Walleye Weekend fishing tournament. Miller’s Bay -Menominee Park. Jerry’s Bar – 920-231-7380

June 15, 16 Oshkosh Thunder Poker Run (fund raiser – The cost of the event is $475 (2006 rate) but free to just go and watch) Go just to look and listen to the incredible speed boats. Note: New location – Park Plaza in Oshkosh http://www.oshkoshthunder.com/Special note by the author. One of the goals of this event is to provide support for the navigational buoy systems on Lake Winnebago, Butte des Mortes, and Poygan in an attempt to make the waterways safer for all boaters. They provide support for various charities as well as the Sheriff’s Department Boating Division and the DNR.

TBA June Menasha Marina Coast Guard voluntary boat inspections 9-noon 920-967-5193

Jun 23 Trans Winnebago Sailboat Regatta-High Cliff Marina to Fond du Lac 920-921-6790

July 2007
Fireworks on the water
Saturday July 1st Fremont at Ted’s Grandview. S.E. corner of Partridge Lake/ Wolf River. Tuesday July 3rd Oshkosh 9:45 PM at Menominee Park http://www.sawdustdays.com/
Wednesday July 4th Omro at Island Park Wednesday
July 4th Menasha at Jefferson Park. Part of Community fest.
Wednesday July 4th Neenah at Riverside Park. Part of Community fest.
Wednesday July 4th Fond du Lac – Lakeside park at dusk http://www.fdl.com/calendar.iml
Wednesday July 4th Winneconne – on the Fox River http://www.winneconne.org/index.htm
Saturday July 7th Fremont – just east of the Fox River. Dock from the Slip Knot to the Webfooter’s Water Ski Show grand stands for best viewing. http://www.fremontwis.com/
Friday July 13th Winneconne – on the Fox River. Part of “The Sovereign State of Winneconne” http://www.winneconne.org/SSD/index.htm

July 3-7 2007 Oshkosh Sawdust Days Festival – Menominee Park-fireworks (fireworks on July 3rd)http://www.sawdustdays.com/

July 3-4 Communityfest – Menasha-Jefferson Park Water-ski show, fireworks on July 4th at dusk. Neenah, lighted street Parade on the 3rd, Main Street – Neenahs Riverside Park on the 4th, venetian boat parade & fireworks on the 4th at dusk. http:www.focol.com

July 4 – Winneconne – Over Lake Winneconne – fireworks at duskhttp://www.winneconne.org/Chamber/calendar.html

July 4 Fond du Lac concert & fireworks at Lakeside Park 7:30-dusk

July 7,8 Fremont Rive Days on the banks of the Wolf River in Fremont WI. Crafts, Food, Spirits, Ski show, fireworks. http://www.fremontwis.com/

Jul 13 2007 Winneconne Sovereign State Days, parade, street dance-Sat. Venetian Parade

July 21 2007 Lutz Park, Appleton. Water Safety & Development Public Education Event. Read more here

July 21st place TBD at 11 AM meeting
Tri-County Powerboat Alliance http://tcpaweb.googlepages.com/

July 23-29 EAA Air Venture EAA grounds, Oshkosh (this event is not on the water)http://www.airventure.org/

August 2007
August 3, 4, 5 Winnebago Rally – OshkoshBoat rally open to all boaters. The main rally on Saturday August 4 starts and ends at Waterfront Park in Winneconne WI. Official website http://www.winnebagorally.com

August 4th J W Stringer's, Gils Landing Free Brat Fry noon till 4, about 5 miles up stream of Fremont on the Wolf River
Tri-County Powerboat Alliance http://tcpaweb.googlepages.com/

August 5 Captain’s Cove water volleyball tournament on the south west side of Lake Poygan. 920-582-4757

Aug TBA Fond du Lac Fishing Has No Boundaries-event for mentally and physically disabled-Lakeside Park http://www.fhnbinc.org/fonddulac.html

August 5 Duck Races held at JW Stringers on the Wolf River, about 8 miles past Fremont. 920-867-2884. Note: They close down in the off season.

August 24, 25, 26 2007 Oshkosh EAA grounds. Ducks Unlimited. (this event is not on the water) http://www.outdoorsbest.com/dugof/

September 2007
Sept 2-3 Oshkosh Thunderfest Poker Run at Park Plaza and SweetWater Marine http://www.oshkoshthunder.com/



Re-occurring through the summer
Fremont – Webfooter’s Water Ski Show-Wednesday and Sundays – 6pm June -August http://www.webfooters.org/

Oshkosh – live music held at the Leach Amphitheater on the river between the main street and railroad bridge. http://waterfest.oshkosh.net/

Oshkosh – live music held at Fratellos restaurant on the river just west of the Oshkosh Avenue bridge. http://www.supplerestaurantgroup.com/fratellos/osh_calendar.asp

Winneconne Waterfront Concert series.
http://www.winneconne.org/Chamber/calendar.html

This information was prepared by Presentation Rentals a audiovisual equipment rental company in Appleton Wisconsin now renting offers flat panel LCD displays and plasma televisions. Visit them on the web at http://www.presentationrentals.net

Boat - SeaRay Sundancer 240
Port - Slip #2A, Skipper Buds, Oshkosh, WI
Lisa

BOATING LAKE WINNEBAGO Wiki site

My friend Gary Olsen has started a Wiki style website for boating on lake Winnebago.

The website is http://www.gwo-main.com/

Dock Ramp Ediquitte

Boat ramp etiquette:

Departing:
1. Do all your loading of the boat either at home or in the staging area, not as the boat is being put in the water.
a. Check if you have to remove your trailer electrical plug.
2. Once your boat is in the water, move a way from the ramp to the dock so the next person can have the ramp.
3. Have your passengers standing by and ready to board.
4. Depart the area at no wake speed.

When returning:
1. When approaching the landing / dock / ramp areas make sure to come off plane prior to the no wake buoy. Remember your wake will keep going even though you are not. Return at no wake speed.
2. Drop off your driver to pick up the truck and trailer and let your passengers disembark.
3. Back off the dock and wait on the water for the trailer to be placed in the water and load.
4. Pull far enough out of the ramp area so you don't block other loaders and start your check list for the ride home.
a. If you unplugged your trailer light plug remember to put it back in.

Winnebago Boat Rally 2007 dates are set

The dates are set for the 2007 Winnebago Rally. The dates are August 3, 4 & 5, 2007.

The Winnebago Rally takes place on the waterways of Lake Winnebago and the Wolf River near Winneconne, WI.

The rally is FREE and open to all responsible boaters - no matter what size, brand or style of boat you have. Cruisers and Powerboats, Runabouts and Fishing Boats, If it floats, can sustain 25mph and you enjoy the company of other responsible boaters, you are welcome in the Winnebago Rally!

The Winnebago Rally is a 3 day event. It starts with arival from 3PM to 9PM and entertainment by "Michael Murphy and the MOB," on Friday evening from 6PM until 10PM. On Saturday, registration for the Rally and Optional Poker Run begins around 8AM and we try and leave the Rally grounds for our first stop at 10AM. We cruise from location to location until 4PM when we all meet up at "The Weed Beds," on lake Poygan for socialization and aerial photos.

Photo at the Weed Beds in 2006


Then it's back to the Rally "Beach Head," for music by "Main Street," a corn roast, the Poker Run payout and Raffles / Giveaways. On Sunday we take an extended cruise to Strieches, just South of Oshkosh, which is a local hot spot for boaters to anchor and relax on the knee deep, sand bottomed western shore of Lake Winnebago. It's not unusual to see over 200 boats there on any given Weekend.

For more information please visit http://winnebagorally.com/

Friends of the Fox Annual Meeting

The Friends of the Fox is planning the Annual Meeting event for Saturday, May 19, 2007 at Appleton Lock #3.

We are coordinating with Appleton, the Fox River Navigation System Authority, CR Meyer Construction, and others to commemorate the completion of the re-building of the four Appleton Locks. Governor Doyle has been invited.

This event also recognizes the Appleton Sesquicentennial this year. More information will be posted on the Friends of the Fox website www.friendsofthefox.org soon.