Neah Bay is no joke. It can be smooth as glass or rolling 20 footers.
Been out there enough for 'butts and I am over the craving to fish in the ocean for halibut.
Figure I've got enough 'sea' time- Now I prefer to stay on the inside.Fishing can be so enjoyable but there is a learning curve on boating safety in the sound or ocean. Especially first time boat owners can hedge their bets and safety margin with a few considerations.
Others can chime in with their experiences. This may be as good a time as any to help out with advise. I figure grown ups do what they wish but when they take their kids on the water my hope is they have enough information to make good decisions.
Bad experiences with chopper gun fiberglass boats and substandard engines used to be the norm years ago. Build designs/construction took a back seat to safety. A lot of boat designs have changed for the better but good judgement, experience and luck still play a big role. If you aren't sure about that first boat, find a marine surveyor to help.
One recommendation for grown ups- have enough Auto Inflatable PFD's that everyone wears one. They are so comfortable you forget they are on.
A Mustang or Cabelas brand Auto Inflatable PFD worn at all times is better than any PFD stored under the chains in the anchor locker.
Also have regular PFDs (bulky uncomfortable but safe) to use as extras or just in case.
Wear a PFD..make your kids wear a PFD- if they are large enough and gripe try out the auto inflatable ones. (check the size requirements)
Check the weather - Winds typically come up at 3-4pm everyday. Plan accordingly.
Low freeboard open bow boats and waves are a recipe for disaster.
Do not let your kids- or anyone ride in the open bow when you are screaming across the waves. Propellers do not stop and I won't explain what it has done to kids when they fall out and are run over.
Along with the radios and safety equipment- depending on the size of your boat.
A High bow, high transom, a back up or kicker motor and bilge pumps (more than one) are considered normal equipment on the sound.
Yes there are many who get away with 12' aluminum boats for close to shore fishing. Problem arises when the waves come up and get caught too far out from over confidence.
There are many old salts who have a lot of grit and get away with using small boats. Problem is there are others who don't.
Then there are dead heads, fuel management, equipment failures and booze.
A lot of very smart, well equipped folks have perished trying to earn a living or just out to enjoy a day on the water.
Be safe, and keep your kids safe.
Fishing/boating can be awesome out here.
Tight lines-
