Gorge Boat Question

[christopher30]

these posts probably get old, and i see them alot but i was wondering if it would be safe/sane to take a 14 foot aluminum boat to flaming gorge. I've had it out on lake mead with high winds, and lake powell as well, but all big lakes seem to have differences in the extremes of their boating condtions. I'm not planning on going head first through a gale force wind, just wondering if i'm overmatched.
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[kok_head]

lot of it depends on what part you fish. I mainly fish the south end of the Utah side and have seen a few small boats out on the water. you would be fine just watch the weather patterns. But most of all watch for the drunk water skiers on the water.
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[line_dangler]

You can absolutely enjoy and travel the Gorge, as well as fish it successfully, in a 14 foot aluminum while keeping two satey aspects in mind: []



[ol][li]Watch for Wind Warnings or Watches, [/li][li]Always carry a marine radio or other good unit.[/li][/ol]Wind speeds above 25 mph will become dangerous for that size a boat. The radio is great to keep on current weather and wind speed. The National Weather Service broadcasts forecasts for that area, constantly.

I would also advice you to carry extra spark plugs for your outboard. In case you get caught in high winds, and happen to choke your engine, a quick change will save you from getting very wet, or worse.

I will second kok_head's suggestion. High speed monster boats, especially during summer, may not see you. Needless to say, while under the influence, they won't see many other things either. [crazy]
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[lakextackle]

The Gorge is not as bad as Powell, and neither of them compare with Mead. During the summer those afternoon thunderheads roll through and create a couple hours of nasty winds. Use common sense and you will be fine.
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[hazmattr]

your fine in the tin boat. my advice just look up, the sky up there tells many stories. I was in the middle of reeling in a trophy mack when the wind sent 3 ft. white caps my way. that was some adreneline but I lived.
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[orvis1]

I have a little 16ft boat I am taking up on Sunday. We are just planning on staying near the boat ramps and shore. Probably fishing the sheep creek bay/mustang ridge areas. If the wind gets a rocking we will head for shore no use chancing it!
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[Saberfish]

[#000000][size 4]This time of year, spring, is unpredictable at the Gorge. I would recommend that you stay away from any water north of Horseshoe Canyon.[/size][/#000000]
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[size 4]The Gorge can be very dangerous in the Spring. Also, watch out for the wake of large boats.[/size]
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