Sounds like you're making all the right decisions. If it's a V21 you're a lucky guy..they are highly sought after. As just metioned above by Reelapeelin.. Life jackets are a MUST. Kids learn by example, so that means you and mommy too. If (like me) you find the regular red jacket bulky then buy the kind that Kyackers use..They fit around you, have large cutouts for your arms and a zipper to close it around you. I use one like that myself. And while we are on the subject of safety.. a few things you need. FIRE EXTINGUISHER(S) one is good, two is better 3 is best. The fire dept doesn't make house calls 20 miles offshore. THROWABLE SAFETY DEVICES (cushions or rings) Flares, (Air and hand held) Distress flag, Audible signaling devices. (Horn on the boat, whistles on your life jackets)
VHF Radio, CB Radio. Compass, and lastly, thought not necessary, a second engine is not a bad idea.... Let me explain... Redundancy is always a good thing when you are talking about safety. That way if something fails you have a backup. That thought extends to engines as well. You don't need a second engine (unless you're trolling for fish), but if your big engine fails you need a way to get home. The little trolling motor has saved a lot of us a lot of times. Yes, you can call Sea Tow, or the Coast Guard or just signal any boat nearby..but can you rely on them being there when you need them? I've been a sailor for over 45 years, starting when I was 17 and in the Navy. The one thing I've learned above all others is that the ocean is a wonderful mistress, but she will slap you down with horrible results if you take her lightly. Like the Boy Scout motto says: "Be prepared."
A few words from the heart... Am I trying to scare you? Yes. Am I trying to save your life? Also yes. We want to be talking to you, not about you. Safety is ALWAYS your number one when you go out on a boat.
Welcome to the website.
There are a bunch of great guys here that can give you more information in an hour then I can give you in a day. Listen to them and their experience. And SEND US PICTURES!!!
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1987 V20 w/1987 150HP Yamaha on a Shoreland'r Trailer
1978 16.5 Airslot w/1996 120HP Force on a Four Winns trailer
1996 V21 w/1993 200HP Mercury on a Shoreline Trailer
All towed by a 5.7L Hemi Durango.
If God didn't have a purpose for us we wouldn't be here, so
Live simply, Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly.
(Leave the rest to God)
Silence, in the face of evil, is itself evil. Not to speak is to speak, not to act is to act. God will not hold us guiltless.