3.4 Boat Angling – Inland Waters

3.4 Boat Angling – Inland Waters

▪Using an outboard engine of a

power rating in excess of the boat’s design rating. Maximum power ratings will be displayed on the boat’s CE/RCD plate;

Sail and Motor Boats – Inland Waterways

While inland water conditions are different to those of coastal or sea areas, they can be equally as dangerous to small craft due to rapid local deterioration of weather and surface conditions that can occur. There have been many fatalities among users of small boats on our inland waters over the years.

▪Allowing repairs or alterations

to be undertaken by unqualified persons using unsuitable or inappropriate materials.

Anglers and operators of boats should always be aware of their stability limitations. Never overload or overpower such boats and always exercise the following best practice in their use:

Fishing from small boats on larger rivers and inland lakes is a popular past time. Craft used are predominantly of a small, narrow beamed, low freeboard design, propelled by either oars or outboard engines. Historically these boats were wooden boats of clinker type construction. In latter years they have been replaced by fiberglass replicas.

▪Be aware of the area weather

forecast in advance and check on it regularly throughout the day while on the water; ▪Be aware of local conditions and

dangers on the lake. If new to the area, always seek local advice before launching; ▪Always wear a suitable PFD of

Fibreglass boats constructed after 1998 must comply with the Recreational Craft Directive (RCD) and each hull must have a CE marking and plate fitted.

a type that can be worn when fishing but which offers sufficient buoyancy to an individual in the water. Take into consideration clothing such as waders, boots, etc., that may be worn when fishing; ▪Be aware of the contact details for

It is essential that owners do not modify or alter boats from their original design. Doing so may compromise the stability, handling characteristics or sea keeping qualities of a boat. Examples of such modifications are:

local rescue services; ▪Always inform a person ashore of

details of the persons on board, the areas of intended operation, and launching and return times; ▪Do not overload the boat beyond

▪Modification of seating

arrangements by fitting of swivel seating for anglers on thwarts or directly to gunwales;

its design rating; ▪Never overpower the boat with

▪Fitting of permanent launching

wheels to the transom;