The Best Way to Learn How to Launch a Boat

Most of us outdoorsy types have been there — cringing behind the steering wheel of a pickup while a boyfriend, husband, fishing friend or other boating companion “coaches” us on the finer points of launching a boat by shouting the following words in full earshot of the other 5,000 people standing around the boat ramp:

“What the !@%$#%@ are you doing? I said the other way! Turn the wheel the other way!”

After numerous exclamations and the associated embarrassment, we can either elect to do something about it or continue to feel anxious every time we get behind the wheel.

My solution was to sign up for “Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW)” through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and enroll in the “Boating Basics” session. BOW is an educational program held twice each year in a camp setting. The workshops are designed primarily for women; however, they are an excellent opportunity for anyone 18 years of age or older to learn outdoor skills associated with hunting, fishing, and a variety of outdoor activities.

When it came to the “Boating Basics” session, the patience of a fellow fisherwoman ended up being my saving grace. Dot Goodwin, one of the BOW instructors, had the ingenious idea of using a toy truck and trailer to give our class an overview of exactly how the trailer would respond given the direction that the steering wheel was turned.

During the actual hands-on launch lesson, Goodwin continued to encourage me for 20 minutes as I made a couple attempts at keeping the trailer between the line of orange safety cones and down the narrow ramp into Lake Eaton. Then, I finally made it down to the water and experienced the sweet feeling of success.

Aside from signing up for the “Boating Basics” session at BOW, here are 3 other great resources you can use when learning how to launch a boat.

• Back a Trailer Down a Ramp Like a Pro — (Post from fellow Take Me Fishing blogger Tom Keer)
• Launch and Reload Your Boat Like a Pro — (Video from Discover Boating)
• The Basics of Launching a Boat — (Video from Bass Pro Shops)

Now that you have a few resources to use when learning how to launch a boat, just get out there and practice with someone who has a little extra patience. If you are interested in signing up for a local “Becoming an Outdoors-Woman” workshop, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website for additional information on courses and dates.