1986 150hp to mudhole

sven · #1 08-23-2009, 10:31 PM

im thinking about going out to the mudhole from atlantic highlands, nj. I would only go when projected weather would call for 2'-4 seas and extended nice weather. Boat is 23 years old but the yamaha 150 runs great and I've already had it out in 5-6 footers right off sandy hook with no problem. I believe the west end of the mudhole is about 12-15 or so miles offshore. I plan to take 10-15 extra gallons gas just in case (have 60 gallon tank). I have radio, gps and of course all other required safety equipment. Anyone have experience taking their 20 footer to the mudhole? any advice is much appreciated.

RWilson2526 · #2 08-24-2009, 08:21 AM

Been wanting to make that run out there myself but have not had the right combination of weather and people on board....(nice weather days I have had the whole family out and dont want to run out that far with them and days out with friends have been a little iffy for running out there). I've certainly seen boats our size and smaller out there when I've been out on party boats and such....All about the weather I guess.

Let me know when you are thinking of going maybe I will take a run out there with you in my boat. At least it will give the coast guard a better chance of spotting both of us!

Seacrets · #3 08-24-2009, 09:23 AM

No offense, but some people mistake 2-3' seas for 5-6 footers. I've owned two V20's and while out there, if it kicks up to 5-6' seas, you won't be pouring extra gas into your tank. Even 2-4 footers can be uncomfortable. Please be safe, 25 watt radio, good pfd's (not the West Marine $4.88 specials), extra fuel water separator elements, tools, flares, first aid kit, throw ring or cushion w/ line attached. I run 30-40 miles offshore in a 25' boat (Proline) with a 9 1/2' beam and at 5-6' seas we're coming back to the dock. Again, please be safe. Just my $.02.

RWilson2526 · #4 08-24-2009, 09:59 AM

I hear ya Seacrets.....I personally would be looking for a forecast of "2' or less" myself. Like you said even if you can make it out there relatively safely it would be nice to be able to stand up and do a little fishin.

chesapeake724 · #5 08-24-2009, 07:57 PM

I've fished that area from a party boats close to 20 yrs. ago, but I don't have firsthand experience at the helm with the type of seas up there. It all depends on the wave period and less about how "far" you are offshore. 2'-4' on the Chesapeake is a back-busting washing machine of short waves that'll rattle your fillings, and you can still see both shores. On the flip side, I've gone 26 miles into the Atlantic (out of NC) in a 21' center console with a 2'-4' swell that was pleasant as all get out. If you are confident in your equipment, preparation, and boat handling ability, 12-15 miles off should be within range of a V with 150hp. I'd be surprised if you even touched the extra fuel, but obviously it's better to have and not need. Five words:

"Buddy boat" and "go for it".

Blue_Runner · #6 08-25-2009, 07:54 AM

Ditto the last 3 posts.