http://edition.cnn.com/2009/US/03/27...tml#cnnSTCText
Not sure if the posts would help those guys in Florida.......Sometimes the equipment is not worth it !! The anchor in this case.
I have aided in 2 rescues at sea, one in which a 35ft express was taking on water in 6-8 ft seas years ago during a shark tounament. When we pulled up to assist the vessel the first thing one of the crew asked us was 'could you take my fishing rods?', granted they were internationals....lol. We were able to relay the coordinates to the Coast Guard, who dispatched a chopper and a pump. Pretty amazing site seeing a rescue first hand.
The second was by the jetty at the manasquan inlet, A father was desparately trying to get his engine started and could not set anchor in time. One of the sons was still fishing while the boat was about to slam the jetty. We were in the right place at the right time and were able to toss him a line.
ok my point......Even if you have The Boat and The Equipment, make sure you have THE CREW. Make sure at least one other individual that is more than capable to handle the duties of Captain if you decide to venture out.
Second, make sure You are up to the task. The first year I bought my boat, I asked Captain Marc Hrycak (REEL ACTION CHARTERS) to give me a quick lesson on rough seas. We ventured out of the inlet after watching a pair of 48 sea rays turn around and got tossed for an an hour in what I would would say were 6 to 8s and maybe a 10 stuck in there. It was the greatest experience and confidence builder I ever had.
Since that experience I have learned that only way I venture out offshore is with the right crew. And if it does hit the fan....make sure you and the crew understand your insurance agent would rather cut a check for your anchor, internationals, and/or your boat instead of cutting a check to your beneficiaries.
Good Luck
Capt Bart Bakelaar
28 Henriques
Bake's
ps We never took the internationals
