Boat Launch Accessibility: Public Docks And Ramps Explained

A public boat launch is a facility that provides access to a body of water for boats. It is typically a ramp that allows boats to be launched from trailers into the water. Public boat launches are often maintained by local authorities and may be free to use or require a small fee. They are usually open during daylight hours and may have restrictions on the types of watercraft that can be launched. Some public boat launches may also offer additional facilities such as parking, restrooms, and garbage disposal. Knowing the proper etiquette when using a public boat launch is essential to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for all boaters.

Boat ramp etiquette

A public boat launch is a site from which boats can be launched onto a body of water. Boat ramp etiquette refers to a set of rules that every boater should follow when using a boat ramp to ensure safety and efficiency. Here are some essential tips for good boat ramp etiquette:

Preparation and Launching:

• Complete all prep work in the staging area, out of the way of the ramp where other boaters are launching. This includes inspecting your boat for damage, checking that the key is in the ignition, and ensuring the drain plug is in place.
• Check that all required safety equipment is on board, including lines and fenders.
• Make sure the battery and engine are operational, and the drive unit is angled correctly for the approach to the water.
• Visit the pay station and take care of any launching fees.
• Attach fenders to the dock side of the boat and remove transom tie-down straps and the outboard motor brace if applicable.
• When launching, have a spotter assist you to ensure a smooth launch and to help nudge the boat off the trailer if needed.
• Start the engine before releasing the boat from the trailer. This way, if your engine won't start, you can simply drive back up the ramp to troubleshoot.
• Launch quickly and efficiently, and use others in your crew to assist you if possible.

Retrieving Your Boat:

• When retrieving your boat, use a courtesy dock or tie up away from the launch area until your trailer is in place.
• If there is a queue, respect the line and wait for your turn to back down the ramp.
• Once your trailer is in the water, load the boat onto it, secure the winch at the bow, and attach a safety chain if possible.
• As soon as the boat is off the trailer, pull back up the ramp and park in a designated spot to finish unloading.

General Etiquette:

• Be efficient and courteous to others using the ramp.
• Don't stop your boat on the ramp and get out of the way when another boat is coming in to land.
• Don't take up too much space or time, and limit unnecessary chatter that may distract others.
• Stick to your own boat; don't start working on someone else's unless asked to do so.
• Always follow the instructions of the boat ramp attendant.
• Before leaving, clean and remove all plants, animals, and weeds from your boat and trailer. Drain the bilge, live wells, and bait wells to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Launching a boat

Preparing your boat for launch:

• Find a parking spot near the boat landing and prepare your boat for launch.
• Place all your gear into the boat, such as fishing tackle, coolers, tubes, and skis.
• Make sure you have everything you need for a fun and safe time on the water.
• Install the drain plug and remove the safety straps from your boat.

Positioning your vehicle and trailer:

• Position your vehicle so that you can back up straight to the water.
• Drive up next to the boat landing, parallel to the shoreline, and then turn away so that your vehicle and trailer are perpendicular to the water's edge.
• Ensure that your vehicle and trailer are straight for easy backing up.

Backing up to the water:

• Carefully back up your vehicle and trailer towards the water, being mindful of the landing area and other vehicles and people.
• It is helpful to have a friend guide you while backing up, but if you are alone, take extra care and go slowly.

Stopping before the winch is underwater:

• As you back down the boat ramp, gently apply the brakes and ease into the water.
• Stop when the tongue and boat winch are still out of the water and put the vehicle in park.

Releasing the winch and attaching dock lines:

• Release the trailer winch hook and strap from the boat.
• Attach fenders to the dock side of the boat.
• Tie a tow rope to the boat and have a friend hold it, or tie it to a dock cleat or other anchor to prevent the boat from floating away.
• Attach dock lines to the bow and stern cleats.

Backing up until the boat floats:

• Continue backing up slowly until the stern or back of the boat begins to float.
• Stop your vehicle immediately to avoid damaging its systems.
• Put the transmission into park and engage the emergency brake.

Getting your boat off the trailer:

• With your vehicle in park and the parking brake set, get out and remove the safety chain and release the trailer winch.
• Hand the bow line to your helper, and give the boat a little push.
• The boat should float and slide off the trailer. If not, back in a little further.
• Your helper can now walk the boat down the dock until it is clear of the trailer.

Driving forward and parking:

• Slowly drive your vehicle forward and away from the water.
• Find a designated parking space for your vehicle and boat trailer.

Additional considerations:

• If you are launching at a public ramp, be as efficient as possible and prepare your boat to launch as soon as it touches the water.
• It is recommended to launch on a weekday or a less busy day to avoid feeling rushed.
• There may be a small fee for launching, so take care of that before you begin.
• Inspect the ramp, dock, and water depth before launching to make a plan and decide where to park after launching.
• When backing down the ramp, go slowly to allow for corrections if needed.
• Unplug the trailer lights to prevent damage from cold water.
• Always wear a personal flotation device before embarking on your boating trip.

Retrieving a boat

Preparation:

Before you arrive at the public boat launch, it is important to prepare your boat and equipment. This includes removing all tie-downs except the winch line, loading any additional supplies and equipment, inserting the drain plug, and disconnecting the trailer's brake lights to prevent burning out bulbs. If you have used motor travel supports, be sure to remove them. Adjust the trim to prevent hitting the propeller when launching. Having a line attached to the bow of your boat is also essential, as it will help you guide the boat during retrieval.

At the Public Boat Launch:

When you arrive at the public boat launch, look for a designated staging area or a spot away from the traffic to prepare your boat further. If there is a launching fee, be sure to take care of it at the pay station. Check that the drain plug is installed, and ensure the key is in the ignition. It is a good idea to turn the key to the "start" position to ensure your battery is not dead. Load all your gear, fishing tackle, coolers, tubes, skis, etc., into the boat. Don't forget to attach fenders to the dock side of the boat for protection.

Remove any transom tie-down straps and the outboard motor brace if you have used one. Don't forget to attach dock lines to the bow and stern cleats as well. Before launching, unplug the trailer lights from the tow vehicle to protect them from water damage.

Retrieving Your Boat:

When retrieving your boat, it is important to use a courtesy dock or tie up away from the launch area until your trailer is in place. Ensure you have a spotter to assist you, especially if you are dealing with a steep boat ramp. Keep an eye out for pedestrians and other boats in the area. Get your towing vehicle and trailer ready, and wait for your turn. Remember to unload any extra fuel and equipment away from the ramp to avoid blocking other boaters.

Once it is your turn, back your trailer into the water, ensuring only two-thirds of its bunks or rollers are submerged. Keep your towing vehicle's wheels out of the water if possible. Attach the bow line to the boat to steady it during retrieval. Maneuver your boat close enough to attach the winch line. Once the winch line is secure, shut off the engine and tilt the engine up. Crank the winch line to pull the boat onto the trailer, and stay clear of the direct path of the winch line for safety.

Final Steps:

After your boat is securely on the trailer, tow your trailer out of the water and away from the boat ramp. Remember to remove the drain plug and pump or drain any water from the bilge. Also, remember to drain live-wells or bait-wells if your boat has them. Cleaning your boat before leaving is essential to prevent the spread of aquatic species. Check your state's regulations to ensure you comply with specific requirements. As a general rule, remove all plant materials from your boat.

When driving away, remember you have a trailer attached, so take corners slowly and at wider angles to ensure safe turns. Always unload fuel and equipment away from the ramp if possible, maintaining good etiquette for other boaters.

Launch fees

A public boat launch ramp is a site where boats can be launched onto a body of water. Some public boat launch sites are free to use, such as the DEC public launch on Lake Placid. However, launch fees are charged at many public boat launches. These fees can vary depending on the location and the type of amenities offered. For example, at New Melones Lake, there is a daily boat launch fee of $10, which includes an $8 daily use fee. New Melones Lake also offers annual passes for day use and boat launch, with the annual boat launch pass costing $70 and the senior boat launch pass costing $35.

In addition to daily and annual launch fees, some locations may charge additional fees for the use of expanded amenities. For instance, at New Melones Lake, there is an RV dump station fee of $8 for campers registered in the campgrounds and $16 for non-campers. It's important to note that these fees are established after conducting a Fee Comparability Study, taking into account similar services and facilities offered by other providers in the region.

Some public boat launch sites may offer discounts or waive fees on certain days. For example, at New Melones Lake, standard amenity day-use fees are waived on Veterans Day, National Public Lands Day, and President's Day. Additionally, individuals holding certain passes, such as the Interagency Senior or Access pass, receive a 50% discount on expanded amenity fees, which include daily boat launch fees.

It's always a good idea to check the specific regulations and fee structures of the public boat launch site you plan to use, as they can vary across different locations and jurisdictions. Some sites may also have restrictions on the types of boats allowed, such as requiring an inspection seal or having specific requirements for non-motorized watercraft.

Launch locations

When selecting a launch location, it is essential to consider the facilities available. For example, the launch ramp at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, the largest launch facility in the South Sound, has eight lanes and is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. It also has attendants during peak months to ensure a smooth launch experience. However, it is important to note that some launches may not have certain amenities, such as garbage cans or restrooms, as is the case with the public boat launches in Pierce County, WA.

Additionally, launch locations may have specific rules and restrictions that boat owners must follow. For instance, some launches may only be accessible to certain types of watercraft, such as kayaks and paddleboards, as is the case with the Wauna Spit launch in Pierce County, WA. There may also be parking restrictions, such as limited shoulder parking or requirements to not block driveways or mailboxes.

It is always a good idea to research the launch location in advance and be aware of any fees, restrictions, or unique characteristics of the launch to ensure a smooth and efficient launching process. By being prepared and following proper boat ramp etiquette, boat owners can contribute to a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Frequently asked questions