[jerseyhunter]

While set lining for cod in the 80's it started getting rough, while head back to port the steering went out. Fortunately we had a tiller in the stern, couldn't see 20' past the bow sprit due to snow sleet and on coming waves and wind. I tended the tiller covered in our catch to stay warm even though I was dressed for it. The Capt'n who was very experienced worked the throttle and pointed which way for me to steer. Took us 6+ extra hours to get back to the dock. It was very bad out there and thought id been in worse. The next day I found out the Capt'n. My Dad tried to call in a mayday to get airlifted but Both radios were out, he didn't let me know so I wouldn't worry. Him and I been in some tight spots but only survived due to his life long history in the merchant marines and at sea. So no matter what you think you know or how good you think your equipment is, it all depends on the experience of the Capt'n and the sea worthiness of your vessel. Hope you never have to learn the hard way.

Ps. The only time I was scared was While tuna fishing in the mudhole on a smaller 30'er, I was much younger and steering and while we hooked up and the old man was reeling it in we got hit broadside by a wave which sent me sailing clear across to the bunks. He was running upright on the freeboard to get to the wheel, by the time he got there the boat righted itself and I don't know if he was telling me the truth but said it wouldn't capsize due to the weight of the engine and center of gravity. I think he was trying to get my confidence back. We landed the tune and obviously made it back to slip no 5 Belmar Basin. Man wht memories. Too bad Kelly's changed it was a great place for burgers.