Originally Posted By: Smalma
BM -
The issue occurs when the launch becomes a major "take-out" with lots of traffic.

When I return to the launch and see a boat at the end of the finger pier am I to assume that it is ok to park in front of that boat as I retrieve my trailor or should I look for one where I can get in "line".

Nothing messes up a orderly take during busy times than a boat out of line along the loading dock for those looking to load their boats without driving on.

I understand how your method is the best for you in terms of getting a quick exit and it should work great when there is empty dock space. However if all/most the docks are in use it can slow things down for the "fleet".

Just my thoughts as an gray beard that fishing alone a lot.

Curt


I am with Curt 100%. I don't know about other boat ramps in the state but I use the Shilshole ramp often, 30 launches on the annual permit this year. The regular users move their boat as far out as possible on launch so the people behind them have some water to launch. Coming in it is as far forward as possible so that the boats behind have some dock to tie up to. Where your trailer is has no bearing on where you tie up, the people behind can't know that info. It is first in line at the dock is the first to take out. It may mean that you have to wait a while someone goes off to get their trailer, particularly those who park out on the street in hopes of avoiding the ramp fee. Patience is a virtue at any ramp, particularly at Shilshole where sail boaters, canoes, jet skis, and any number of other strange craft are using the ramp. If you can't wait don't fish on weekends.

Motoring on to the trailer has some impacts, the most serious is damage to the ramp. Shilshole is not bad but if you look at extreme low tide there is a significant dropoff where the concrete ends. A final thought is that if you have been fishing and checkers are working when you tie up at the end of the dock they have to carry their equipment the entire length of the dock. It may not seem like much for one boat but if they check 60 boats the extra minutes adds up to hours that folks are waiting to take out.