Launching Your Boat In A River: A Step-By-Step Guide

Boating has become an increasingly popular pastime, with more first-time boaters taking to the water than ever before. But before you put your boat in the river, there are a few things you should know. From safety equipment to local regulations, there's plenty to consider when it comes to river boating. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know to stay safe and have fun on your river boating adventures.

Know the river's unique features: currents, rapids, and obstacles

Rivers are constantly changing and can be challenging to navigate if you are inexperienced. It is important to be aware of the unique features of the river you plan to boat on, such as currents, rapids, and obstacles.

Currents in a river can vary from subtle to extreme depending on the environment. One factor that influences the speed of the current is whether a dam is open or shut. Dams are opened or closed based on variables that alter the water levels upstream and downstream. For example, heavy rainfall will cause water levels to rise, and the dam must be opened to release the excess water. Even if the current seems slow, it will likely speed up as you get closer to a dam, so caution is advised.

Narrow passages will also create a faster current as the water has less area to flow through. Other factors that can alter the speed and force of a current include the weather and the gradient of the riverbed. Understanding how these elements interact will help you predict how the water will move and enable you to navigate more safely.

Rapids are areas of faster-flowing water caused by the presence of rocks or other underwater objects that create turbulence. They can be dangerous for boats, causing damage to hulls and propellers, and making navigation difficult, especially for smaller vessels. Rapids can form anywhere the geology allows for gradient, constriction, or obstacles. They are commonly found in steeper sections of the river, where the increased gradient causes the water to flow faster, and in areas with rock types that are more challenging to erode, as this creates narrow channels.

When boating, it is crucial to be aware of underwater obstacles such as logs, debris, and fallen trees, which can cause significant damage to your vessel. Rivers often attract seaweed due to the constant influx of minerals, and this can get tangled in your propeller, making it hard to turn. It is also important to watch out for natural obstacles like reefs and rocks, and human-made structures like dams and locks, which can impede your progress.

Prepare safety equipment: life jackets, anchors, fire extinguishers, etc

When preparing safety equipment for boating, it is important to consider the size of your vessel and the number of people on board. Here is a detailed list of safety equipment you should prepare before putting your boat in the river:

Life Jackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Ensure you have enough wearable PFDs (Type I, II, or III) for each person on board, including children and pets. Keep them easily accessible and in good condition. Children under 12 must always wear their life jackets on a moving vessel. If you are towing a skier or have a wake surfer, they will also need a PFD. In an emergency, ensure that all passengers put on their life jackets immediately.

Throwable Flotation Devices

In addition to life jackets, have at least one floating device (Type IV) that can be thrown to someone in the water if needed. This could be a cushion, a ring buoy, or a similar item. It is better to have several of these devices, and some may come with a line attached to help pull someone closer to the boat.

Fire Extinguishers

The number and type of fire extinguishers you need depend on the size of your boat. Boats under 26 feet require at least one B-1 type extinguisher, while boats 26 to 40 feet need two B-1 types or one B-2 type. Discuss with your passengers how to operate the extinguisher: pull the pin, squeeze the handle, and aim at the base of the flames.

Anchors

Include an anchor with a line on your boat to hold it in place while waiting for help or during changing weather conditions.

Visual Signaling Devices

Visual distress signals are required for both day and night use for boats over 16 feet. Pyrotechnic devices, such as orange or white smoke flares, aerial light flares, or strobe lights, can be used. For boats under 16 feet, only nighttime signals are required.

Sound Signaling Devices

All boats must carry efficient sound-producing devices like whistles or horns to attract help and signal intentions. Larger vessels over 39 feet should also have a bell for use in limited visibility conditions.

Understand river navigation rules: maintain distance, speed, and right-of-way

When navigating a river, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance and speed and be aware of the right-of-way rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some detailed guidelines to follow:

Maintain Distance:

• Always keep a safe distance from other vessels, obstacles, and the shore. Be especially cautious when approaching bends in the river, as visibility may be limited.
• Stay clear of naval vessels, bridges, power plants, and dams. It is not only a safety precaution but also a legal requirement under Homeland Security measures.
• When passing a fishing boat, give yourself a wide berth as there may be fishing nets that are not easily visible.
• Avoid congested waters as much as possible and be respectful of other boaters and their enjoyment of the river.

Maintain Speed:

• Operate your boat at a safe and controlled speed at all times, adhering to any legally mandated speed requirements, such as slow/no-wake zones.
• Adjust your speed according to the weather and water conditions, such as fog, rain, or rough water.
• In narrow channels, give way to larger vessels that can only travel within the channel to avoid potential collisions or running aground.
• When approaching a potential collision situation, reduce your speed, even if you have the right of way.

Understand Right-of-Way:

• Know the "pecking order" of vessels to determine right-of-way. Give-way vessels must yield to stand-on vessels.
• Power-driven vessels must keep out of the way of vessels not under command, restricted in their ability to maneuver, sailing vessels, or vessels engaged in fishing, ascending, or descending a river.
• In the case of two power-driven vessels approaching each other head-on, neither has the right of way. Both operators must take early and substantial action to steer clear of each other and turn to starboard as soon as possible.
• If a power-driven vessel approaches from your port (left) side, you have the right of way and should maintain your speed and direction while being ready to take evasive action if needed.
• If a power-driven vessel approaches from your starboard (right) side, you must give way and take early and substantial action to keep clear by altering your speed and direction.
• When overtaking another power-driven vessel from behind, you are the give-way vessel and must take early action to keep clear by changing your speed and course.
• Use sound signals to indicate your intentions when altering your course or operating in reverse. For example, one short blast indicates turning to starboard, and three short blasts mean you are operating in reverse.

Check local boating recommendations and safety rules

Rivers are constantly changing and can be very difficult to navigate if you are inexperienced with this type of water. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of local boating recommendations and safety rules.

First, check with local authorities on boating recommendations. Rivers can be rendered impassable by strong and fast flow, or shallow waters. In both cases, it is important to seek local knowledge. Many rivers are also seasonal, due to temperature or water regime, and local authorities will be able to advise on this.

Next, be aware of the unique features of the river you plan to boat on. Rivers often have features that make it only possible to go a certain distance, such as thick vegetation, dams, and waterfalls. Locks are another feature unique to rivers. These stepped water level systems allow a boater safe passage through a large gradient change. You can navigate your boat into an enclosed area, secure it to the sides, and then water can be drained or filled to the level of the other side of the passage, allowing you to drive out safely.

Another important consideration is the current of the river. The current can be subtle or extreme, and different factors influence its speed. One factor is whether the dam is open or shut, which is dependent on variables that alter the water levels above and below the dam. The current also tends to speed up in narrower passages, so be aware of this if you are boating in a narrow area. The weather will also have an impact, so always research the weather and the river before setting off.

Finally, be aware of obstacles in the river. Rivers are often shallow, and the proximity of river edges to large trees means there is a constant concern of water hazards as trees can fall into the water. Always pay close attention to underwater obstacles, and do your best to avoid them.

Be aware of the river's depth and underwater obstructions

Rivers are constantly changing and can be very different from lakes or reservoirs. They can be challenging to navigate, and it's crucial to be aware of the depth and any underwater obstructions before setting out.

First, it's beneficial to consult an expert, such as a local fisherman or someone who has experience boating on that particular river. They can provide valuable insights into depth changes and underwater hazards. For instance, they might inform you about an underwater orchard, fallen trees, or dense patches of marine growth that could damage your propeller.

Additionally, obtaining a depth map is highly recommended. This map will help you navigate and avoid shallow areas in the river, ensuring a safer journey. It's also crucial to know the location of dams and maintain a safe distance from them. If your boat loses power and starts flowing with the current, you could inadvertently end up at a dam, creating a hazardous situation.

The river's current can vary from subtle to extreme, influenced by factors such as the opening or closing of dams to manage water levels and the width of the river passage. Narrower passages will create a faster current, so be cautious when boating in these areas. The weather can also impact the speed and force of the current, so be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip.

Underwater obstacles, such as logs, debris, and marine growth, pose a significant threat to your boat and should be avoided at all costs. These obstructions can cause severe damage to your vessel, including your propeller and engine. Even if you don't see any obstacles on the surface, be vigilant, as trees or other objects could be lurking just below, waiting to entangle your boat.

In summary, when putting your boat in a river, always be mindful of the river's depth and any underwater obstructions. Consult experts, use depth maps, be cautious around dams, understand the current, and keep a sharp lookout for underwater obstacles to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience.

Frequently asked questions