BOATING REGULATIONS AND YOUR
RESPONSIBILITIES
SECTION
3
© 2003-2018 Ken Cook Co.
3 - 6
l Bass
An operator fishing in an area that is crowded with other fishing boats may have
difficulty following the rules of the road. This situation can become especially
difficult when many boats are trolling. Being courteous and exercising sound
judgment is essential. Avoid trying to assert the right-of-way and concentrate on
staying clear of other boats. Prevent the boat from becoming entangled in lines and
from cutting into lines. Also keep in mind that fishing line wrapped around a
propeller shaft can damage seals in the engine lower unit.
There is currently a tremendous drain on our fishing resources. Excessive fishing
and hunting, as well as pollution, have strained the fish and game population. Help
out by keeping only what you will eat; practice catch-and-release and obey bag
limits.
MONOFILAMENT FISHING LINE
Wildlife can experience harm from becoming entangled in or ingesting
monofilament fishing line if it is left in the water or on shore. Line in the water can
also endanger swimmers and divers and become tangled in boat propellers,
causing damage. It can last for years in water, posing a threat for a long time.
Fishing line can remain a problem even if put in the trash, because birds can take it
from an open bin and become entangled or it can entangle wildlife at landfills.
Many states and private boating/wildlife organizations sponsor programs to collect
used line for recycling into new products. Operators who carry used line or happen
upon it while boating can dispose of it in recycling bins located at many marinas,
launches, tackle shops and state service centers.
WAKE
Boat owners/operators are responsible for the wake the boat creates. Regulations
may vary from state to state. Contact local and state boating authorities for specific
information, as owners/operators may be responsible for any damage or injury their
wake causes. Always be alert for no-wake zones and be courteous of others while
boating. Excessive and unexpected wakes can cause dangerous and even life-
threatening situations.
NOISE
Boat owners/operators are responsible for the noise the boat creates. Many state
and local boating authorities enforce noise limits that may restrict engine noise,
radio volume or even loud talking. Regulations may vary from state to state.
Contact local and state boating authorities for specific information.
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