Given the discussion that has preceded, it's obvious that there are some varying opinions on the running of power boats. As a sled owner, I'd be curious to get the measure of how big an A-hole I am being. It would be helpful to me, and no doubt others, to know what the range of opinion is about where it is reasonable to run a boat of a certain size.

So, how big a boat is too big, on the following rivers? What I mean is not how big a boat is too big to physically run the river, but rather, is there a size of boat that is more offensive than another, to the point of being unreasonable? Let's assume a reasonably polite operator, that won't willingly run too close to someone.

Or is the size of the boat even relevant?

Cowlitz

Skykomish

Skagit

Satsop (to the forks)

Snoqualmie

Wynoochee (low)

Humptulips (low)

I own both a sled and a drift boat, and fish both. I have been cut off by jerks with sleds way too often, and won't willingly or knowingly do it myself. It's a bit sad that you don't need a license to drive a power boat.

There is an old saying that really applies to this subject - "It's not the size that counts; it's how you use it."

RT

Thanks for asking.

I had a long detailed reponse all ready to post, and trashed it. Too much of a peeves list for inconsiderate sled operators, not necessarily boat size related. So, how're these for pass/fail criterium?

1)If you experience instantaneous bottom induced deceleration (indicated by everything in your boat compacting into a 2'X 3' wedge in the bow) because you had to avoid something (other boats, bankie's gear, etc.) your boat's too big.

2)If you have to make a choice between mining gravel or getting whipped in the face with brush, your boat's too big.

3)If you have to take people out that you don't like because you need help with the gas bill, your boat's too big.

On the other hand, if you launch at Snohomish at high tide and you have to fish until the next high tide to take out, maybe your boat's just the right size?

Peace.

It doesnt matter what size your sled is,someone will always complain, just be SAFE AND CURTIOUS!and (pack four spare tires inside your rig for when you want to go home!) :p

Eggs, I guess that's my real question. I guess I am curious as to what the non sled owners would submit as points to the question, how to be a courteous sled runner. Given that I do and will fish local rivers, what are the things that sled owners do that, if avoided, would make for a better day for all.

And let's leave the "Park it at home" comments aside for now. I use my sled because I take my kids fishing, and they're too young to help with the drift boat turnaround, and that ain't gonna change for 10 years. That said, I have no desire to be a jerk about it, and would like to avoid doing anything inadvertantly that I hadn't thought about being rude.

siver check youe-mail

Silver Hilton I think your query was right on and civil. I'm a banky...don't know where I'd park another boat as I got one for the salt and one for ducks. Other than not being in waters that are obviously innappropiate to any one:

1. Don't just blast through my water. Come off a plane well before you get into my casting area...and ease thru....maybe ask where I'd like you to pass....simple friendly hand signals usually works.

2. Don't stop and fish my water...unless you ask..I'm one of those guys who under certain conditions is willing to share.

3. Stop and shoot the sh@!t. Like to know how your fishin was, what you run into and whats workin for you. I usually return the favor.

4. Just be a considerate friendly fisherman out to have a good day of it.

5. Don't be in a hurry to the point you ignore the other guy.

Can't believe some of the posts on this subject?
Sad state of affairs and really points out why sportfishers have no voice...we ain't one voice.

Gooose

It's not the size; it's the way it's run. Nothing pi$$es me off more than having a sled run up and boondog the seam I'm fishing 4 or 5 times. It would be rude for another bank angler to stand next to me and fish the exact same spot. It's rude for four guys in a sled to fish the exact same spot as me. It's a little rediculous when I have to pause and stop casting so they can run all their lines right in front of me.

Floatin High I've had drift boaters do the same things...so what's the diff?

Gooose

Gooose--Exactly. I fish the 12ft boat with a jet and from the bank. I have had drift boats "fish through", which I have NEVER done with my boat. That said, if the water is too fast, you can't slow down going upstream. Best you can do is stay off the water people are fishing. You can slow down and let them know what you are going to do, but ultimately, you have to punch it to get on up the crick.

Nav" hey punch thru when you have to . Stop and visit with the goose if you want .

Gooose

Goose, where have you seen drift boats boondog a hole 4 or 5 times? I'm talking about a sled hitting the slot I'm fishing, then repeatedly running back up to do it again. What's the point of buying a sled just to fish the same water that's accessable from the bank?