07-04-2021, 07:32 PM
(07-03-2021, 11:32 PM)MrShane Wrote: I support the license, if for nothing else than ramp etiquette and wake management/responsibilities, but no fee.
A registered boat shouldn’t even have to pay to launch at a State facility.
Do you pay each time to drive your registered car down your subdivision street each time you use it?
https://www.boatus.org/
I think Washington State did something pretty smart and I hate Washington State so that opinion almost choked me to write.
They require a one time Coast Guard Approved class that can be taken on line (see above link) or from private or coast guard instructors that you pay per their requirements. Once you get the certificate of completion, you apply to the state for a life-time "license" that allows you to operate a boat, including launching, in the State. It is required of Residents and Non-Residents. If I recall correctly, when I got mine it was only about $35, but that was some years ago. But, say it is $100 now, for a lifetime license that is pretty cheep.
I will bet that almost none of you (I'll admit that I might need a refresher to get a 100%) could pass the test without taking the course. Do you know on what side you pass an oncoming boat (on a road we in the US pass on the right side, or Starboard, but how about the water?).
If you are passing a boat from behind, what audio signals are you to use to let the boat know you are approaching, and on what side you will be passing? (Can't remember that one myself right now).
How close to a boat anchored or slow moving boat are you allowed to run a boat on plane by?
What is the procedure for ????????????? well you get the point.
The on-line class takes about 4 hours, if you are a fast "book learner". The physical classes given in person can take two days, 4 hours each.
I guess that this is my idea of a license. Trust me, it would take several years to phase in, but the State would make a ton of money on fines at each and every launch point for each boater that failed to get the license. LOL