Hunting Washington Forum

Big Game Hunting => Deer Hunting => Topic started by: ThurstonCokid on February 04, 2020, 10:19:43 AM

Title: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: ThurstonCokid on February 04, 2020, 10:19:43 AM: I have a 17ft boat with a 35 horse evinrude motor. This year i am planning on gaining access to a few spots for mule deer hunting by boat. I’ve been interested in it for a while and this year is the year i plan on doing it. I will be carrying cooler, hunting pack, tent and other backpacking essentials. If there’s anyone who has done this and has tips I’m all ears!

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Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: Chesterdog on February 04, 2020, 11:28:43 AM: That's how I got my mule deer this year, from a boat. PM me if you have any specific questions. One thing that may save you a hassle: I don't know how old your motor is, but my throttle cables got water in the lines and froze recently. It's not something you wanna deal with on opening day. My boat didn't want to shift out of Neutral. Sub-freezing temps require a little extra prep on the boat that you may not be required to do in the summer/fall.
Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: Stein on February 04, 2020, 11:31:44 AM: My only recommendation is to have a great life jacket and VHF radio.
Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: Skyvalhunter on February 04, 2020, 11:33:00 AM: What area are you planning to hunt not lake Chelan I hope
Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: ThurstonCokid on February 04, 2020, 12:09:24 PM: Quote from: Skyvalhunter on February 04, 2020, 11:33:00 AM
What area are you planning to hunt not lake Chelan I hope
Not lake chelan! I’ve heard it can be pretty rough come deer season

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Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: ThurstonCokid on February 04, 2020, 12:09:50 PM: Quote from: Chesterdog on February 04, 2020, 11:28:43 AM
That's how I got my mule deer this year, from a boat. PM me if you have any specific questions. One thing that may save you a hassle: I don't know how old your motor is, but my throttle cables got water in the lines and froze recently. It's not something you wanna deal with on opening day. My boat didn't want to shift out of Neutral. Sub-freezing temps require a little extra prep on the boat that you may not be required to do in the summer/fall.
Great info! Thanks for that!

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Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: ThurstonCokid on February 04, 2020, 12:10:01 PM: Quote from: Stein on February 04, 2020, 11:31:44 AM
My only recommendation is to have a great life jacket and VHF radio.
Will do! Thanks

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Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: Angry Perch on February 04, 2020, 02:03:20 PM: If hunting a reservoir, such as Lake Roosevelt, be aware that the levels can rise/ drop pretty dramatically in a day.
Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: NOCK NOCK on February 04, 2020, 07:51:44 PM: :yeah: Don't leave your boat beached, may come back to it high and dry and its not easy to get it back in the water.

PS, 17' with a 35...…..you need more HP. ;)
Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: ThurstonCokid on February 04, 2020, 09:39:58 PM: Quote from: NOCK NOCK on February 04, 2020, 07:51:44 PM
:yeah: Don't leave your boat beached, may come back to it high and dry and its not easy to get it back in the water.

PS, 17' with a 35...…..you need more HP. ;)
Impossible to go wrong with HP!

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Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: 444Marlin on February 06, 2020, 10:20:59 PM: Don't shoot at large game from the boat. It's tough to have a steady rest when the whole boat is moving.
I'm sure you were just intending on hitting a beach somewhere and hunting on land, but if you do see a deer from the boat....get it ashore before shooting.
Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: ThurstonCokid on February 06, 2020, 10:49:48 PM: I will not be shooting from the boat period. Thanks for the tip!

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Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: buckcanyonlodge on February 07, 2020, 04:51:31 AM: Know your boundaries..especially if it is Lake Roosevelt. The 1310 line goes almost to the water in places.
Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: ThurstonCokid on February 07, 2020, 09:26:24 AM: Quote from: buckcanyonlodge on February 07, 2020, 04:51:31 AM
Know your boundaries..especially if it is Lake Roosevelt. The 1310 line goes almost to the water in places.
Not quiet sure what the 1310 line is. Deer area? Great pic! Thanks for the advice

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Title: Re: Tips on hunting out of a boat.
Post by: Parasite on February 10, 2020, 08:49:55 AM: If you can switch to a jet drive, you can beach the boat easier.

Have lights for night time running.

Waders or boots are helpful.

Long enough rope to tie off or anchor the boat.

Take a test run in the area if you are worried about shallow obstacles.