Quote:
Originally Posted by Phantom
........ there are several "Ambiguous" locations around the Lake where just having a Compass will fail you and checking on the Chart will save you............
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Phantom, I totally disagree with this statement, I have been on the lake now for over 25 years. I have never found a spot on the lake where the compass and an understanding of the markers would have failed me.
I have been to several areas where trying to go fast and not heading the markers and verifying your orientation with a compass would fail you for sure.
But that is not the same as your statement.
Boaters need to be educated on how to use a compass, and navigate with regards to the orientation to the marker.....
No chart is really needed... A chart makes it easier..... A chart makes it possible to navigate unfamiliar areas a bit faster.... but a chart will not save you... anymore then a compass and understanding of the AtoN will......
I also disagree with the statement that GPS devices are the save all either. Yep they are nice and look pretty, but I bet many boaters still get into trouble.... yep you maybe able to zoom in etc. but common people, that doesn't make it safer.
REALLY LEARN TO NAVIGATE.... UNDERSTAND THE MARKERS.... AND DON"T BE AFRAID TO SLOW DOWN, and understand your bearings......
Anyways I am going to get off my soap box..... I have noticed that many people in this argument are also the people that think anything less then a 24' boat is unsafe......
What makes a successful captain, is experience, constant learning, and being able to get a firm grasp of how the Aides (markers, compass, GPS, depth finder, etc.) will make your life easier. They don't do the job for you.....
ok now I am serious... I am stepping off the soap box and kicking it aside.