As we transition into late summer and early fall we will begin to see some large tidal events here in the lowcounty. Tides in excess of 6-feet bring great wading opportunities for Redfish in the grass as well as the opportunity to pole the marsh flats with shot gun in hand searching for the ever elusive Marsh Hen. These large tidal events will also typically cleanse the marsh of debris, debris that more often than not becomes a threat to safe navigation in the water ways.
Several years back my wife and I were running out to the Charleston Jetties after one of these large tidal events in search of some Sheepshead. We had noted a lot of debris in the water as we crossed the harbor on the outgoing tide and we were both watching our course of travel very close. As we rounded the corner by Ft. Sumter the wind was bucking the tide making conditions a little sloppy and spotting debris became all the more difficult. I slowed the boat down to no more than 15 knots and a few minutes later the engine began to cavitate real bad. I pulled the throttle back to neutral and raised the motor to take a look. As I trimmed the motor I found a 2-foot long 4X4 post had wedged itself between the transom and the engine and was obviously blocking water flow to the engine. Uncertain if there was possible damage to the hull I eased over to Cummins Point and did a visual inspection before we continued our fishing trip.
Extreme high tides, heavy rain events, and obviously tropical storms and/or hurricanes can all litter the water ways with debris. Floating, partially submerged, or completely submerged debris can all wreak havoc on any vessel underway. If there has been any type of event to contribute to debris in the water way travel a little slower and keep as many eyes as possible on the lookout. If operating at night; ensure that you have a spot light on board and man it during your entire course of travel. As always you should make sure your bilge pump is working properly before you head out and ensure that there are not any it