The ledge

Saltwater Offshore Discussion
21
quote:
Originally posted by capehorn 16

“Stress Relief” is that you?

+10 points...
22

I’m with Touche on this one. The first two seasons I had my boat, I spent most of my time inshore, on the ICW, and in the harbor. I wanted to know my boat and what it did in those safer surroundings first. The first time I heard my low oil warning was within less than a mile from a dock where I could get some oil. Things like that as I learned my new boat was not something I wanted to learn 50 miles out! Learning how to catch fish, is only compounded by also learning your boat at the same time. That’s why the suggestions about going on someone else boat to learn fishing technique’s and “how to’s” is invaluable. All you have to do is sit back, relax, learn, and have fun on someone else boat. I didn’t make my first “big boy” all by myself trip for trolling past the ledge until I was into my third year of owning my boat. I went out with friends to see how to fish properly, before I ventured out to try and figure it out on my own.

I fully understand the desire to get out there with your own boat and haul in some fish. But it is so much more enjoyable when you take your boat out there, and you are confident in your boat and have your head already packed with knowledge on how to get those fish in the boat. The other option is being surprised by something your boat does and frustrated because you can’t get fish in the boat.

23
quote:
Originally posted by Swette24

I haven’t been out quite as far as the ledge yet and am looking for tips. First off I have a 2006 21ft deep V Trophy with a 200hp merc verado. The boat is self bailing, 101 gallon fuel tank, with GPS and VHF. I also have a handheld VHF, flares, all the safety equipment. Any suggestions?

Swette24,

I have had my 1999 Sea Pro 210CC to the Ledge and then to the 100 fathom line. Pick your days and be smart. Some of the folks here will crap on the idea, but do what you feel comfortable with and have the knowledge base for. Take small steps like the Chas60 and then a little further out, if that is your thing. I think the question that you were asking is will my boat make it that far, and the answer is yes it will, but pick your days.