Flathead Beacon | Comments

By JD on 04-24-08

You need help, Warren!
This must not have happened around here, as we don’t have tides to deal with. 
I seriously recommend all boaters have their boats professionally maintained.  You’re taking your life in your hands when you hit the lake, and I’m already too scared to go boating with you!
You admitted to some pretty serious blunders!  It’s pretty common, though.
If you ever want to have an afternoon of hilarity, go to any public boat launch.  Somers is the best, especially on Sunday.  Sit there for just an hour and watch people try to launch their boats.  You will see wrecks, sinkings, fires, fistfights, dog attacks, divorces and near drownings.  I’ve seen all of these these there, even pickups lost over the wall and trailers unhooked halfway down the ramp. Some of it was only funny years later.  There were injuries a few times, but not a death yet that I recall.  Yet.
When I arrive there I always pre-dial 911 on my cell phone and then just hold my finger over the send button, ready to push.  I always try to help people, but it just makes them madder.
Most common mistake that people make on the ramp is they are nowhere near ready to be on the ramp.  Very irritating to those who are.  If you know what you’re doing you should by on the ramp for two minutes, tops.
What I’m saying is, people please get lessons on how to use a boat, and have your boat serviced by the pros.  It could save your life.  I’m not joking.
A local boat dealer had the great idea of developing a marina on the river where folks could have the whole ramp scene handled for those who can’t handle it.  Unfortunately it just can’t happen yet, but it will someday. When Montana looks like Florida, in terms of waterway development.  Give it a few years.
Meanwhile, happy boating!  It’s supposed to fun, remember?