Just bought a boat

[Wjm]

Hi all, any help would be appreciated. I always just fifth of the banks of the Delaware but,  I finally bought a boat 1995 14’StarCraft. I just want to make sure I have everything when I’m ready to go out on Lake Nockamixon. Can anyone tell me all the main items I need for my boat, I know I need a motor. I just don’t want to forget anything. Thanks

[MN Fisher]

Life Preserver is more important than a motor...you can always paddle a boat.

 

Cell Phone or 2-way radio to call for help if needed.

Anchor so you don't drift off your spot.

Map of the lake/river so you don't get lost.

Plenty of water - it's hotter on the water than it is on the bank.

Fishing gear.

 

That's all I can think of off the top of my head.

[Fishing Rhino]

I suggest that you take a safe boating course.  It will not only tell you what you are required to have but what you should have as well.

 

They will also teach you about navigation and the rules of the "road".  

 

After that, you can get some hands on experience.  You got a good boat, for a first boat.  You can learn boat handling without having to worry about a ding or a scratch in an shiny new vessel.

 

Some states require you to get a license to operate your boat on their waters, which usually involves some studies and you can take the safe boaters course on line.

[WRB]

Start by looking at USCG web site for boating inland waterways, rules, regulations, required safety equipment, etc. 

Most often over looked item is the boats drain plug followed by the engine will not start.

Optional items you need are dock lines, bumpers, fresh gasoline and oil, trailer tires, wheel bearings in good condition and tires not over 10 years old, trailer lights in working condition and wench and strap in good condition. Transom support for the engine and boat to trailer tie downs. Boat horn works, fire extinguisher in working condition and battery charged, cables and terminals all in good condition.

Tom

[Way2slow]

First, you need to check with your state game and fish and see what the states requirements are, they are all different.  Some require a whistle, horn or other on board signaling device.  For instance, here in GA, you are required to have a throwable cushion or safety ring.  A boating safety course is mandatory in some states.  Simple things like knowing what they consider sundown and sunup and how long before/after then you are required to have your lights on.  They even have rules on how bright and how high the rear white light has to be and how far you can see the red/green running lights. 

One thing you will find out about a game warden, they usually don't cut you any slack, if you are out there, they expect you to know the laws and are not bashful about teaching you the hard way if you don't.

The two most important things you should never be without in a boat, Toilet paper and a device to pee in because it's not always going to be in places you can just stand up and go over the side.  Then comes the role of Bounty, cloth towels get pretty funky. Next, a poncho, large umbrella or  something along those lines for the unexpected down pour. 

[Wjm]

Just want to say thanks for all the advice, I’m checking out about a boat course in my area and the advice is already handy, thanks again