heading to the bay bridge boat show!

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Spring 2021

Heading to the Bay Bridge Boat Show!

photo by David Sites

Upper Bay Boating Magazine2015 Turkey Point Rd. • Essex, MD 21221

410-404-3013 • www.upperbayboating.com

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Publisher: Jim HighPublisher Emiritus: Dave Bielecki

Editor & Graphic Designer: Paul HutchinsFeatures Editor: Wendy Gilbert

Photography: Donna Bedell, Tom Scilopoti, David Sites

Contributing Writers: Wendy Gilbert, Tim Campbell, Tim Sherman, Doug Dawson, Alan Keene, Mark Galasso, Montana Grant,

Kim Merrikan, Jenn Williams, Dale Plummer, Don Elwell

We are members of the Baltimore Co. Marine Trades Association & Upper Bay Marine Trades Association

Upper Bay Boating Magazine, LLC., is published 8 times a year, and distributed around the waterfront of the upper bay, along with Pasadena, Kent Island, N. Delaware, and SE Pennsylvania.

Neither the publication nor any of the company’s employees are responsible for the advertising or advertising claims contained herein. The publisher disclaims any liability regarding product pricing, claims, descriptions, availability, or condition. We exercise reasonable care in checking copy for accuracy. However, no warranty is expressed or implied by the company or its employees regarding product errors, omissions or misprints. Opinions of writers not necessarily those of the publisher. No material in this publication may be used without prior permission from the pub-lisher. Copyright 2020, Upper Bay Boating Magazine, LLC., All Rights Reserved. Contact us at 410-404-3013, or email: [email protected]

Spring 2021

5 Springtime On The Upper Bay! 6 Saint Brendan

8 Good Hydration 10 Spring is for Fishing the Upper bay

12 Spring Commissioning 14 Bass Off the Docks

16 On the Soft 19 Boating - The Great Escape

20 Pride of Baltimore 22 Want to Get Away?

24 Maryland Waterways Foundation 26 Tips on Selecting

Your New Boat 28 Are You Ready? 30 Photo Gallery

32 Live Aboard 36 MTA’’s On the Job Trainee Conner Hooper

38 Boat Dog 40 New Boat Engine Cut-off Switch Law

photo by David Sites

Business Owners -Why not join our new advertisers and promote your message in Upper Bay Boating Magazine? If your customer base lives or boats on the upper bay, you should take a look at the Upper Bay Boating Magazine for your advertising needs. Our magazine and website offer the only targeted editorial based marketing opportunity for this region.

Try us today! [email protected] 410-404-3013

Springtime on the Upper Bay

We are very excited to say the Bay Bridge Boat Show is a go! With so many things cancelled

over the last year, it sure is going to be great to see everyone back out and about. The days have gotten longer and warmer. The boats are getting prepped and painted and the marinas are starting to fill up. Outdoor live music and deck parties are being planned. The kids are finally going back to school and the masks are coming off. We have so much to look forward to this 2021 boating season.

Water comes in so many forms, shapes, and styles. Tonight, it is pure white and frozen. As I sit on this late winter evening the curtains are open, the porch light on and snow is coming down. The pure white snow has piled up over the last couple of days and our back porch light is on. It is the one time every bodies lawn looks the same as ours does.

So how did you get that eye patch?

I was sitting at Rummur’s Rum Bar in Chesa-peake City when a real life pirate walked in and sat down beside me. He started recounting his ad-ventures at sea and I got up enough nerve to ask him a question. “So, how did you end up with the peg-leg?”

The pirate replies: “We were caught in a huge storm and a giant wave swept me overboard. Just as me crew were pullin’ me out a school of sharks appeared and one of ’em bit me leg off.”

“Wow! That musta hurt, two shots bar-tender!!! “And how’d you get the hook?”

“Arrrr…”, mused the old salt sip-ping his rum, “I got into a fight over a woman in Key West, and me hand got chopped off.”

“OMG” “And how about the eye patch?”

“Oh that,” said the pirate, looking embarrassed. A seagull droppin’ fell into me eye.”

“You lost your eye to a seagull dropping?” I asked incredulously.

“Well…” said the old sea dog, ” it was me first day with the hook.”

And if I would have giggled I would probably have an eye patch today!

“A ship in port is safe… But that is not what ships are built for” - Grace Hopper

“How inappropriate to call this planet Earth when it is clearly Ocean”. -Arthur C. Clarke

“I want a boat that drinks six, eats four, and sleeps two.” - Ernest K. Gann

Spring 2021 5

Marinating wit h Jim HighJim High, Publisher

Marinating with Jim High (along with Tim Augustine, Brenda Wilmoth, and Kisha too!)

6 Upper Bay Boating

St. Brendan -Patron Saint of BoatingBy Wendy Gilbert Contributing Editor

The year 2020 was a gut punch, no doubt about it. This year has all the earmarks of being much improved.

That said, a little extra protection in the shape of a blessing from the patron saint of boating, St. Brendan of Clonfert might not go amiss about now.

Although it is a bit rare these days, I do see an occasional onboard placard dedicated to St. Brendan. I decided to do a bit of research and see what I could dig up on this Irish seafaring monk.

According to Roman Catholic Church literature, St. Brendan was born in Ireland and taken from his home as a small boy and raised to become a monk.

For five years he was educated under St. Ita, “the Brigid of Munster”, and he completed his studies under St. Erc, who ordained him as a priest in 512. Between the years 512 and 530 St. Brendan built monastic cells at Ardfert, and at Shanakeel or Baalynevinoorach, at the foot of Brandon Hill. It was from here that he set out on his famous voyage for the Land of Delight, Land of Plenty or the Land of Promise, depending on the translation.

I imagine he was headed straight for the Upper Chesapeake Bay.

The old Irish Calendars assigned a special feast for the “Egressio familiae S. Brendani”, on March 22; and St Aengus the Culdee, in his Litany, at the close of the eighth century, invokes “the 60 who accompanied St. Brendan in his quest of the Land of Promise”. Naturally, the story of the seven years’ voyage was carried about, and, soon, crowds of pilgrims and students flocked to Ardfert. Thus, in a few years, many religious houses were formed at Gallerus, Kilmalchedor, Brandon Hill, and the Blasquet Islands, in order to meet the wants of those who came for spiritual guidance to St. Brendan.

In Ireland (and in Maryland), St. Brendan is known as the patron saint of travelers and sailors. He earned this title because of the numerous voyages accredited to him. Although most of the legends of St. Brendan agree that he was an adventurous traveler, discrepancies concerning the direction of

his travels remain. A few sources talk about his trips to Scot-land and Wales. Others cite the coast of Brittany and islands surrounding Ireland where he worked tirelessly to establish monasteries and spread the word of God.

The voyager story that is the most famous is Brendan’s search for a land of plenty in the far west. He and his com-panions had several adventures along the way including an encounter with a talking bird, a visit to Hell complete with de-mons, and an enormous whale that they mistook for an island. Whether St. Brendan actually took this journey and “discovered” America is question for debate. There are several individuals, scholars, and groups that firmly believe that the voyage took place. Indeed, in the 1970’s, after much preparation and re-search, a man named Tim Severin duplicated the trip to the best of his knowledge. It is also said that artifacts have been found in America proving that Brendan and his fellow monks had landed there.

It doesn’t matter if the legend is fact or fiction or a pleasing blend of both.

We are captivated by St. Brendan’s spirit, determination, courage and initiative. And we’ll take all the blessings we can get for the summer of 2021!

Spring 2021 7

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Good, good, good --- good hydration, yeahBy Wendy Gilbert – Contributing Editor

The first time I felt the effects of dehydration was on a fine summer morning. I was on my way back to the

pool deck after completing the backwash cycle in the pump house.

The day was not especially warm or humid. My rou-tine was perfectly normal and absolutely nothing seemed the least bit out of the ordinary. Beach Boys tunes were humming on the little radio at the check in station. All was right with the world -- until I nearly fainted on my way up the ladder to the lifeguard chair.

That’s how old I am – lifeguards actually watched peo-ple in a pool from a chair above the deck.

We also blew whistles to maintain the rules and – get this – people listened. Kids stopped running, teenagers stopped butting in line and adults didn’t enter the gate in their golf shoes or with their cocktails.

But I digress. After a few minutes of rest and a lot of drinks from (here I go again – showing my age) the water fountain, and getting under an umbrella, all was soon set to rights.

Nearly passing out from dehydration that day was a wake up call for me and much to the chagrin of my friends and family from time to time nowadays, it is something I’ve never forgotten. I won’t go anywhere without filing up my

trusty stainless-steel bottle first. Especially these days. Even if you can find a water fountain, it probably has been decommissioned because of Covid-19 fears. They are going the way of phone booths my friends.

While it is a com-mon boaters’ practice to reduce liquid intake while out on a boat for obvious reasons, it is a game we really shouldn’t play. Use the head or make frequent trips to a facility. Not drink-ing to avoid a good pee, is stupid. There, I said it!

If you or one of your passengers is experiencing mild dehydration, the obvious (for good reason) choice is to drink plain old water and plenty of it. Once a full bottle has been consumed, a sports drink or another beverage with a pinch of salt and sugar can be helpful to replace electrolytes, but for most of us water is all that is needed.

If symptoms are beyond mild, by all means get to shore and seek medical attention. There are Urgent Care facilities all over the Upper Bay these days! No excuses. Take care of yourself and your passengers.

Wendy Gilbert

8 Upper Bay Boating

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People at any age can become dehydrated, and since younger children and infants might not be able to vocal-ize or recognize when they are thirsty, it is important to take note of the various symptoms attributed with dehydration. According to the Mayo Clinic, when we feel thirsty, we are already dehydrated, so the ability to recognize other associ-ated symptoms might help us rehydrate sooner.

Signs of Dehydration in Adults:

• Muscle fatigue• Reduced cognitive processing• Dizziness• Confused or dazed states of awareness

• Thirst• Infrequent urination and dark colored urine• Dry mouth

Signs of Dehydration in Children and Infants:

• Easily irritable• The top of the skull has a sunken soft spot• Tearless crying• Dry tongue and dry mouth• Sunken cheeks and eyes• Infrequent urination (no wet diapers for three hours)

Symptoms of Dehydration

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Spring 2021 9

One of the best

months to fish the Upper Bay is April. Longer days and warmer water temperatures prompt fish into feeding and spawning activi-ty. Experienced anglers know that migratory striped bass fol-low herring and shad from the ocean into the Chesapeake Bay in the spring. The hungry stripers eat whatever herring and shad they can on their way to the Upper Bay spawning grounds.

Many anglers like to fish for shad. Shad are known as “poor man’s tarpon” because they fight hard and often make acrobatic leaps out of the water. It’s a sight to see. Shad fish-ing is strictly catch and release. It has been so since Maryland closed the shad fishery in 1980.

These days, there seems to be a fair amount of Hick-ory shad. It’s difficult for some people to tell the difference between American shad and Hickory shad. Maybe that is one reason why the Maryland Department of Natural Resources keeps the moratorium in place for both species. In spite of trucking shad upriver from Conowingo Dam, and other ongo-ing recovery efforts, the American shad fishery has still not recovered. Dams block the shad’s way to the best spawning grounds. Above Conowingo are Holtwood Dam, then Safe Harbor, then York Haven. Besides that, shad and herring are a prime food source for predatory fish.

Wading below Conowingo Dam to fish for American and Hickory shad is popular. Fishermen line up below the dam tossing their lines for strong fighting shad. It’s fun to catch one shad after another. Some guys even use clicker-counters to tal-ly their catch. Casting from the fishing platform is another good spot to try. Shad darts and small spoons are proven lures. Gold and silver are the most popular spoon colors, but other colors also work. My favorite shad lure is a silver #13 Tony Accetta spoon with the barb smashed down. It’s much faster and easier to release shad with a barbless hook. Besides, barbless hooks are much less damaging to the shad. And for a catch and release fishery, it’s the sporting thing to do.

Incidental catches include catfish, perch, large and smallmouth bass, snakehead, striped bass, or maybe even a muskellunge. The mouth of Deer Creek is another favorite area among shad anglers. Some anglers like to fly fish for shad, while others prefer a light spinning outfit. Most fly guys

are wading up in Deer Creek, while most spin fishers prefer to fish near the mouth.

For more shad fishing opportuni-ties, visit the Bush and Gunpowder Rivers on the western shore.

White perch spawn April, May and some in June. They move into the

lower Susquehanna and other Upper Bay rivers toward the end of the shad run. Plentiful, easy to catch and good to eat, white perch are a fisherman’s favorite. Use basically the same tackle for perch as for shad. Some years are better than oth-ers with regard to numbers and size. Like all fishing, success depends on the weather, the previous year’s spawn and other factors.

Striped bass are the main pursuit for a large number of Chesapeake Bay anglers. A lot of big migratory striped bass get harvested during the spring run, either on their way in the bay or on their way back to the ocean. That is one reason why MD DNR has conservative striped bass fishing regulations. Check the DNR website for more information and updates at www.dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries.

This year the trophy striped bass season starts Saturday, May 1 and goes to May 15. Striped bass fishing is permitted in the main bay from the Brewerton Channel to the Virginia line. The limit is one striped bass per person, per day measuring 35 inches or longer. Boaters trolling big lures in search of trophy stripers take over the bay, especially on weekends. Troll east to west and zigzag across the main channel to catch big strip-ers. Avoid the crowds by fishing weekdays.

If you are releasing the fish, handle striped bass with care. Wear wet gloves to protect your hands, and the fish. If taking a picture, have your fishing buddy ready with the camera. Hold the fish horizontally not vertically, and return it to the water quickly but gently. Let some water flow through its gills before turning it loose. By mid-May, most striped bass have spawned. After they spawn, the big females quickly return to the ocean and head north for the summer.

Tim Campbell, a native Marylander, has enjoyed boating and fishing the Chesapeake Bay for many years. He is an award winning mem-ber of the Mason-Dixon Outdoor Writers Association.

Spring is for Fishing the Upper Bayby Tim Campbell

10 Upper Bay Boating

Spring 2021 11

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By Captain Mark Galasso

I recently received an email from my boat insurance carrier that at first was a little upsetting. The summary of it was that they

would not renew my vessel insurance this year until I had a SAMS (Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors) or NAMS (Na-tional Association of Marine Surveyors) certified surveyor come out and do an out of the water survey on my 35-ft. Markley prior to launching in April. At first all I could think of was the extra expense at a time of the year when charter incomes are close to zero. And the fact that they have insured the vessel for going on 25 years now didn’t help my frame of mind. After I calmed down a bit I called them. I was told by the nice young lady that they require the survey every 5 years and that I had it done five years ago. Then I remembered. I remembered I was mad then too. And it didn’t make me feel any better this time. I told her that other than an engine rebuild about four years ago not much has been done to the boat. Seems that doesn’t matter. Since there aren’t many companies that offer commercial Marine Insurance policies, I had no choice but to contact a marine surveyor and get it done. So I contacted the Company that surveyed my vessel 5 years ago. In the meantime I’ve been trying to put a positive spin on this aggravating, unexpected expense. So here’s what I’ve come up with. If your anything like me you hate surprises (like this one). Good ones tend to change my daily momentum and frustrate me a bit while bad ones can ruin my day and in the case of my charter boat can ruin a lot more than that. The expense of mid-season surprises (repairs) not only is higher than offsea-son repairs but you also have lost business which can add thousands of dollars in lost income in addition to costly repairs. Ironically my insurance company doesn’t offer me lost business insurance. Surprise, surprise. But the bottom line is when you know things aren’t right with the boat and you need it to make a living even minor problems can put you on edge for days if not weeks. But let’s look at the bright side. I’m going to have a trained eye go over my boat and look for issues that I might have overlooked. Then I can get them fixed while the boat is still out of the water and service people aren’t too busy. I remember last time the Surveyor found that I didn’t have double clamps on raw water lines attached to two through hull fittings. That’s one of those things that’s never a problem until it’s a problem. And when a hose clamp fails (and they do) and you don’t have a secondary one or a spare handy it’s a REAL problem.

Remember the story of the little boy with his finger in the dike to prevent the flood. You don’t want to be THAT little boy on your boat. The other issue that the surveyor picked up on five years ago was the lack of a ladder or something to climb in and out of the boat. I explained it was simple. You just swim up to the transom. Reach way up and grab a cleat. Then put one foot on the top of the rudder and the other in the exhaust port and pull yourself up and out of the water. He laughed even though I was serious. Bottom line was I went out and had a dive ladder made. In hind sight a good expense. You may know your boat inside out. And you may have a good knowledge of mechanical systems as well as the other systems on your vessel. Marine surveyors are trained to look for common issues found on all boats. And they see countless boats with common problems and how the problems manifest themselves on different boats. They basically go over your boat with a fine tooth comb looking for electrical, plumbing and mechanical issues as well as soft spots, blisters and delamina-tion’s which can lead to serious problems as boats are pounded by waves. So this year I will not only have my vessel safety check to inspect all my safety gear I will also have all my other systems checked out by someone who knows more than me. I’m always a little apprehensive the first week of the charter season and I can’t wait to get in and tie her up for the day. The boat has been winterized for a few months and I always feel if something is going to go wrong it will happen that first week. I watch all my gauges with an eagle eye looking for different temperatures or pressures. With each new trip I get a little more relaxed. (You noticed I used the word relaxed not complacent.) We should constantly be inspecting our vessels. Now when the vessels are dry docked is the time to seriously look for and fix any major

issues. So whether you use your boat every day or just on weekends now is the time to get everything right. I’m sure your weekends on the boat is as important to you as my charters are to me. Make sure you don’t miss any weekends due to problems you could have taken care of in the off-season. And if you’re not sure contact a marine surveyor. I’m sure they would be happy to help. Who knows it might even save you a few bucks on your insurance. Be safe.Tuna the Tide Charter Service Grasonville, Maryland

photo by Captain Mark

Spring Commissioning

Spring 2021 13

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The tributaries of the upper Chesapeake have a rich history of largemouth bass and fishermen who pursue them. There have been a few years when the conditions were tough. Yet those tough years can also make you a better fisherman. That being said, even during the good years there are times we think we could have put a few more bass in the boat.

There are plen-ty of scenarios where we may have paid too much attention to the obvious, or not worked and area, or single piece of cover thoroughly. We may have even neglected to try a different lure or technique when we feel that bass are around. In tournament situations, and even when fishing for fun, catching those extra few bass adds to the enjoyment.

Plying Middle River for bass has given me a great understanding of how bass stage on docks. Having worked with tournament level fishermen has also been a great help. When the sun is out, you can bet that bass will use docks, piers, and their pilings for shade and ambush points. Prior to 2015’s fish kill, I found that if I wasn’t fishing a pier in Middle River, I wasn’t catching bass. With Scott Sewell and the Maryland BASS Nation restock-ing the river, this new generation of bass may have become acquainted with the abundant underwater vegetation as well. Still, I am partial to the docks.

An approach that many anglers use is the close-in pitching technique. In this case, the short, quiet cast is used to accurately place a soft plastic lure or jig next to poles and pilings. The fisherman is looking for a reaction bite from a bass, as the lure falls through the water column next to the vertical cover. The lure is allowed to momentar-ily touch bottom. It is then reeled in and pitched to the next target. Granted, this is a great technique. Yet if an angler moves on without getting a bite from the pilings, he or she has likely missed out on some bass.

Working lures under the decking of the pier or dock should be undertaken. Starting on the pilings is a good first step as not to alert the ones under the dock. Working underneath can be a daunting task, especially on high tides. It does take some practice to skip a worm, or roll-cast a spinnerbait or chatter bait under a pier. Yet it is well worth developing these skills.

Working spinnerbaits and chatter baits under docks

can be very productive. I try to make long casts so bass can have a chance to hear, see, and feel the lure coming. My retrieve will pass by at least one piling. While I am targeting bass under the decking, there still could be a bass next to a piling, wanting a lure swim-ming by versus one that falls down to it.

There are many ways to rig a worm to for dock fishing. The proto-typical Texas rig, a shaky head, or wacky rig all have their place. Pick what you are confident with. Regardless of the chosen method, these are ways to slow down and give bass a chance to hone in on the lure. Admittedly, I have a hard time slowing down. However, I am often rewarded with the more subdued approach.

Remember, too, that the shade line changes dur-ing the day. Bass will often move with it. As a matter of fact, the water under the dock may be in the sun. At

this point in the day, I’ll fish the shade line next to it. When you get your bites, you should be taking

mental notes. What is the tide stage? Was the bass on the piling or under the decking? Were you making perpendic-ular casts or angled casts under the pier? Did the bites come on the end of the dock or close to the bank? Were the docks in shallow water or deep water? Were the bass on long docks, wide docks, short docks? When you can an-swer several of these questions, you can develop a pattern, thus, skipping unproductive pier. This gives you more time to fish the productive ones and catch more bass.

I always advocate that anglers have respect for the waterfront property owner. If your casting skills aren’t adequate to fish docks, stay away. Even the most skilled fisherman can make an errant cast from time to time. If you snag a piling or dock line, do your best to remove the lure and hook so that the pier owner doesn’t get an unwanted surprise. I always ask for permission to step on a dock to remove a snagged bait when I see the property owner.

For waterfront pier owners, if you see a bass fisher on your dock, it is highly likely that he or she is using due diligence to do right by you. True, it does border on tres-passing, but have an open mind to the angler’s true intent if you see their boat near your pier. They probably feel bad enough for putting themselves in that predicament.

Don’t Miss Bass on Docks

By Tim Sherman

Spring 2021 15

Into the MysticWhen that foghorn blows I will be coming home...

Dominic KaneAugust 4th 1951-

December 12, 2020

Bill CoxDecember 12, 1961 - December 21, 2020

Eleanore Benjamin1940- 2021

Daryl Lewis and Karen O’Connor


Well, it’s finally April! Can you believe it? It won’t be long now before we’re out on the Bay, soaking up the

rays and enjoying all that the Chesapeake has to offer. But before any of that can happen, there’s some re-commis-sioning work to be done. You know, get that baby back in shape....wax her topsides, recharge her batteries, change her oil, scrape her bottom.....etc. etc. etc.

Since this is our Spring commissioning issue, I thought I’d join my compatriots in discussing what needs to be done to allow us to bury the rail or get up on plane. But, I’ll be discussing it from a little bit different perspective.

While I have complete confidence that, when you’ve finished reading this issue of Upper Bay Boating, you’ll have received the best of advice on preparing “Pier

Pressure” or “Aquaholic” or “FantaSea” for her return to the Bay, I feel compelled to address the forgotten element in this whole process....THE CAPTAIN.

What about re-commissioning him?While most boats have been spending those cold win-

ter months outside on the hard, most captains have been spending those same blustery months inside on the soft, especially with Covid 19 limiting our pre and post-holiday celebrations.

Instead of being propped up with jack stands or resting on the trailer, though, captains around the country can be found in a reverse-prone position, lying on a heavily padded cradle that conforms perfectly to their individual bottoms. As the dimensions of their bottoms change during the winter months (as captain’s bottoms often do), the cradling de-vice adjusts to those changes, offering complete support throughout. The cradling device, often referred to as a

LazyBoy, is a chair that reclines with the pull of a lever or the push of a button.

While the fuel lines on “Don’t EVEN Ask” and “Fish-N-Chicks” were drained last

Fall, those of their captains remain fully operational, as evidenced by the snacks of every size and description surrounding their recliners. There are half empty bags of pretzels and potato chips, with TastyKake and Twinkie wrappers balled up on the floor. Half eaten boxes of Christ-mas chocolates sit on TV trays nearby, next to crushed beer cans and bowls of what-use-to-be ice cream (mint chocolate chip in my bowl). While their level of fuel intake isn’t much greater than during the boating season, combined with those 6 months of immobility, many captains notice that they’ve become much beamier.

When “Liquid Asset” was pulled last September, her batteries were removed and stored in the basement. Her captain’s batteries, however, remained installed and re-ceived a trickle charge of TV sports throughout the winter. The batteries of captains who live near Philly actually were undercharged as their beloved Eagles sucked the last spark out of those deep-cycles with an embarrassing 4-11-1 record.

Raven’s fan’s batteries got a decent charge as their team’s vaunted defense and scrambling quarterback took them into the playoffs again this year. But, with football

adistant memory and only B-ball and PGA golf to take it’s place, most of those Delcos are just about dead.

Every Spring before “Sotally Tober” goes back into the water, all her hinges,blocks, and winches need lubrication. Five or six months of just sitting stiffens up all those nautical joints and her captain’s joints aren’t any different.

With the exception of a very flexible forefinger on his “remote” hand and a very loose elbow on his drinking arm, after 5 months on the soft, the other joints rival those of an octogenarian.

And finally, when the captain of “Makin’ Waves” climbed into his recliner in the den last October, he had the look of a man who loved being out in the sun and wind. But that dark tan soon faded as the months of hibernation grew. What was once a rugged outdoorsman look has been replaced by the pale countenance of an aging, overweight lump A look, I’m sure, our first mates adore.

Now, all of you know that no Spring commissioning article is ever complete without a “to do” checklist. So here it is:

RE-COMMISSIONING YOUR CAPTAIN

1) REDUCE BEAM MEASUREMENT: (Without which, access to marine head may be compromised) Remove captain from recliner and deliver to Gym. Place on treadmill and press “start”. (Make sure he’s wearing his mask!)

2) REDUCE FOREDECK BULK: (Without which, PFDs may be undersized) Remove captain from treadmill and place on exercise mat. Hold captain’s ankles and instruct to “reach for your toes.....you remember those!”

3) RECHARGE BATTERIES: (Without which, motivation and enthusiasm may be lacking) Expose captain to last 6 issues of Upper Bay Boating; especially Keene’s column.

4) REDUCE STIFFNESS IN MOVING PARTS: (Without which, movement in, on, and around vessel will be limited) Return to exercise mat. Instruct captain to begin jumping jacks, followed by deep-knee bends and leg thrusts.

5) GET SOME COLOR BACK: (Without which, shade must be constantly sought) Take captain outside to rea-quaint him with the sun. Limit his exposure to a series of 15 minutesessions, after a being thoroughly soaked in SPF30.

AND, if 1 thru 5 fail to achieve the desired results:

6) EXPOSE YOUR STERN: Begin by turning off the TV. Next, remove all fuel sources within arm’s reach of the recliner. Open the drapes, allowing the sun to pour in. And finally, return the recliner to it’s upright position and repeat after me:

“Get up off you fat behind and get down to that boat! It’s got to be washed, waxed, and painted before we can put it back in....so hop to it! Work some of that blubber off. It’s SPRINGTIME, my God! LET’S GO BOATING!!!!”

On The Soft by L Alan Keene

Spring 2021 17

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Boating is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Boating is a family recreation enjoyed by millions for family fun, enter-

taining, relaxing, exploring, fishing and just escaping out on the water.Now, more people around the world are getting into outdoor sports,

as a result of the new distancing requirements. Boating certainly satisfies the need to get outside and enjoy life, while following all the guidelines.

Life truly is better on a boat.As with all activities, for example; tennis, musical instruments, driving

a car, operating a computer, or yes even handling and docking a boat; you can fumble through on your own, learn from a friend, or be taught by a pro.

The results always tell the tale! Onlookers easily spot someone who has taken lessons from a pro versus someone who hasn’t. Unfortunately, new boaters who don’t get any lessons, but try to figure it out themselves, don’t realize what they don’t know. Too very often, they run into difficul-ties—especially in the confines of a harbor.

Current BoatersFor boaters already enjoying boating, now may be a good time to

invest in a lesson to improve your handling and docking skills. You may be comfortable with your docking ability; but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a safer, better or easier way. Learning just one or two new techniques, could make the difference between your good docking and great dock-ings every time, which translates into a happier First Mate and crew; thus, more fun on the water.

Even seasoned boaters can benefit from a refresher lesson to share with their family and friends who change to a different slip location with different wind directions; or choose to back into their slip instead of dock-ing bow first; or have another family member wanting to take the helm, or upgrade to a boat with different drive system.

Each drive system requires different handling techniques; so, for those who have traded their boat from a Single Sterndrive to a Twin Inboard, or a Single Outboard to a Twin Sterndrive for example, or any drive system change, your old docking methods will not work. Get instruc-tions from a Docking Pro for your new drive system to avoid frustration and possible mutiny by your crew. It will be worth the investment.

New BoatersFor those who are new to boating, just purchased your first boat,

or are looking to purchase one in the near future, we would strongly recommend that you shorten your learning curve. Learn “right” from the start—how to handle and dock your new or “new-to-you” boat. Don’t waste years with trial and error, or getting the wrong instruction.

Don’t let bad dockings add to the stress that you are already under!

How do you find the right Instructor?As in all things, there is good and bad. Docking instruction is no

different. Unfortunately, docking instructors have varying levels of exper-tise—both hands-on instructors and written instructions in a book or on the internet. Some have very limited knowledge and experience with only one drive system and assume all boats dock the same way—as theirs. The biggest docking mistake is assuming that all boats dock the same way.

A good boat docking instructor will:• Know the design characteristics of all the boats and drive systems• Know the difference between the handling characteristics of each of the different drive systems and have different instructions for each, because they definitely do not handle and dock the same way• Know how to drive and handle all drive systems• Know how to dock all drive systems• Know how to teach others with clear easy-to-understand instructions• Leave you with step-by-step instructions, so you can practice what you’ve been taught by reading it repeatedly. Verbal, long, complicated instructions tend to blur and get lost in memory.• Share their exemplary credentials, testimonials and references to back up their docking skills• Discuss their insurance coverage with you. As a paid instructor, is he covered to be aboard your boat?

Dawson’s Docking LessonsDawson’s docking lessons are downloadable books. They are

recipes that you can follow for a successful outcome. They include many diagrams and pictures with step-by-step instructions.

The lessons include how your boat responds to the wheel, shift(s) and throttle(s); on-the-water exercises; and step-by-step lessons for dock-ing in wind, port and starboard side docking, left and right approaches and lots of “what-if” explanations.

The lessons also include when, where and how to hang fenders; which line to use for each docking scenario; where your First Mate should stand with the lines depending on your boat’s configuration; how to adjust your approach in all wind conditions; when to go beyond and back; how to make a piling your friend; bow first and stern first docking; gas dock shuffle; FLIPP Line “step-off” and “stay-aboard” procedures; non-verbal communication and much, much more. The lessons are complete and easy to follow.

So, now is a great time to take advantage of this “stay at home” opportunity to shorten your learning curve or try out some new techniques to remove the docking stress and make your “great escape” in the boat a much more enjoyable experience for the entire family—especially in these trying time.

Doug Dawson (5th generation in the boat business) has combined his train-ing and lifetime of experience demonstrating and testing thousands of boats. He has sold and taught new boaters to handle and dock boats since he was a kid.

Doug is the author of 17 Boat Docking books to help boaters around the world confidently and safely maneuver their boats into a slip or alongside a dock in all dock configurations and weather conditions without the need for yelling, swearing, jumping, bionics, boat hooks, dock helpers, guesswork or embarrass-ment.

www.BuyABoatWithConfidence.com www.PowerBoatDocking.com www.BoatingWithDawsons.com

By Doug DawsonBoating The Great Escape

Spring 2021 19


Pride of Baltimore IIShip Name: Pride of Baltimore IIClass of Ship: Baltimore ClipperHull Length: 109 feetCommissioned: October 23, 1988Chief Mate: Jeffrey Crosby

Recently I had the pleasure of an early afternoon chat with Chief Mate Jeffrey Crosby of the Pride of Baltimore II.

Our conversation about boats, tall ships, and open waters chased away the February chill and had me dreaming of warmer temps, a cold brew, and sunny days on the bay.

As I have been talking with Jeff, he and the crew are in the process of taking off the winter cover and starting to uprig the Pride signaling spring is around the corner and sailing season will start soon.

The crew came aboard on February 6, after each mem-ber completed a mandatory 14-day quarantine, to aid in the prevention of COVID coming aboard with them. They then began the long process of re-assembling all the masts on the ship to ready her for sailing and the arrival of her guest crew this summer.

The Pride allows six (6) guest crew members to sail with them. These guest crew members must apply, go through an approval process, and if selected they will quarantine be-fore boarding the Pride. The guest crew live and work right alongside the professional crew onboard Pride II.

Jeff was excited when explaining the Pride has a part-nership with the National Park Service and this summer will go to ports along the Star-Spangled National Historic Trail, travel all over southern New England, and also make a stop in Bermuda in June.

So, who is Chief Mate Jeffrey Crosby?Jeff grew up in Duluth, Minnesota. It was here his love

of boats, boating, boat repair and boat building began. Jeff’s family is in the boat business and Jeff spoke fondly of family vacations on both their 28- and 36-foot sailboats. During his teen years Jeff raced one design boats on the waters of Lake Superior; notably J24’s, scows, and sailboats. After high school, Jeff attended the Landing School in Maine and graduated with a degree in boat building in 2005.

Jeff told me he learned early on that it was easier to make money fixing boats than actually sailing them and so,

it seemed a natural progression when he came to the Pride II in 2008 as a deckhand and carpenter. Jeff did leave the Pride in late 2011 but found himself coming back off-and-on and then staying on again in late 2016.

As Chief Mate Jeff explained his duties are varied. He stated, “I’m in the narrow spot between a captain’s wishes and dreams and making it happen.” He does typical duties like deck department management, cargo operations, and navigation watch-standing duties such as voyage plan imple-mentation, position plotting, and relief captain duties.

I asked Jeff what his favorite port is and he quickly replied, “Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.” He explained the Pride does voyage circuits each year with many different legs and as such Jeff has travel all over the east coast, to Bermuda, and up to Nova Scotia. He described the port of Lunenburg as a traditional Nova Scotia port with a rich boating history. No surprise given his racing history, Jeff talked about the Bluenose fishing and racing schooner that was built there and all the history that goes with it. But what does Jeff really like about Lunenburg? He stated, “It is always a little foggy there and fog is my favorite weather.”

Jeff and I discussed the “off season” for tall ship sailing and he explained that the Pride typically operates from the end of March to the end of November. At the end of Novem-ber they downrig and the winter cover is put on. The crew shifts their focus to all of the projects that couldn’t be done during the sailing season and winter maintenance.

Can you guess what Jeff does during this time when he’s not sailing on the Pride? You’d be correct if you guessed he works on his own boat, eats good food (has a few favorite spots in Fells), and catches up on all his missed shows. Jeff just finished the latest season of The Expanse.

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Spring 2021 21


This is the first in a series featuring restaurants, wineries and breweries in the Upper Bay region. If you would like to be considered for a feature, email [email protected].

The moment patrons walk through the front doors of Bowleys on the Bay at Long Beach

Marina, they are welcomed with a warm beach vibe. White wicker chairs line a bar bedecked with boat décor, fish coast lazily in a large tank sur-rounded by teal-colored accent walls, and natural light streams through ample windows overlooking the water.

On a recent Friday afternoon, the restaurant, which officially opened as Bowleys on the Bay in November, was filled with guests gathering to celebrate a birthday, a group enjoying a girls’ lunch, and gentlemen reminiscing over beverages at the bar.

“Because we are new, everyone is checking us out,” said Jon Boesché, the marketing director and social media/events coordinator for the establish-ment.

Bowleys on the Bay is located in the Long Beach Marina, which is a 300-slip full-service marina (currently at capac-ity) tucked away in a quiet corner. In the summer months, patrons of the restaurant can enjoy dining on the 300-foot beach under an array of more than two dozen palm trees as well as shade canopies as they observe people enjoying kayaks, jet skis, paddle boards, and boats. Located just 500 feet from the end of Martin State Airport, Bowleys on the Bay also offers the unique perspective of being able to watch air craft taking off over the water. In addition to the views, the restaurant also offers musical entertainment (sometimes from a floating pier) in the form of either reggae music, a steel drum band, a Latin jazz ensemble or Jimmy Buffett/

Kenny Chesney type bands during the summer as well as cozy acoustic sets during the cooler months.

The menu features staples such as the beloved Maryland crab cake, and weekly specials that might include rainbow trout, chocolate trifle, or lobster cobb salad, among many other dishes, as well as a Sunday brunch offering. The restaurant has a flair for specialty drinks, offering a diverse selection of crushes, fea-tured martinis and frozen martinis. Bowleys on the Bay has also elevated its wine selection, and every other Friday, the restau-rant’s wine vendor offers tastings at individual tables.

Whether guests are coming for the music, to enjoy some fam-ily time, to sample the menu items and drinks, or to take in the views and waterfront ambiance, there is something for everyone.

“I don’t have a boat, but I love coming here,” joked one loyal patron.

“A tropical destination beach vibe – it’s just what we are,” said Boesché. “When you pull up and sit under one of 25 palm trees or sit under the shaded dining area, you feel like you’re a long way away. You feel like you’re in the islands.”

Location: 800 Chester RoadBowleys Quarters, MD 21220 (p): 410-335-8613Social Media:Facebook: Bowleys on the Bay or LongBeachMarinaMDInstagram: Bowleys_on_the_bay or LongBeachMarinaMD

Know Before You Go: Transient opportunities are limited, but the marina can accommodate between 5-15 boats a day. Some people pull their boats up on the beach and then enjoy lunch at the restaurant.

Want to ‘Get Away’? Visit Bowleys on the Bay for a Beach Vibe

By Jenn Williams

Bowleys on the Bay at Long Beach Marina features a colorful menu selec-tion, waterfront views and musical entertainment for guests. (Photo Courtesy of Bowleys on the Bay)

Enjoy a selection of martinis or crushes when you visit Bowleys on the Bay at Long Beach Marina. (Photo Courtesy of Bowleys on the Bay)

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Spring 2021 23

After a year long pandemic and what seemed like the

entire world coming to a halt, we are working on reigniting activities. Even though safety procedures and social distanc-ing will be in place, some may still be leery to participate in group activities, and that’s ok. Others are itching and eager to get outside and regain some normalcy in their lives, inter-acting with people in person instead of a computer screen. For anyone not comfortable interacting with groups of people, we can accommodate them with a “cleanup to go”, supplies can be dropped off and those persons can get out in nature, doing a cleanup on their own or with immediate family and we will even pick the trash bags up.

We recently were invited to do a live, in-person presentation to members of Yacht Clubs of Maryland and the meeting actually happened, no last-minute cancellations due to Covid-19 spikes. It was great to be around real people, representatives from all the local yacht clubs. Our presen-tation was well received, and we look forward to more in person interactions and presentations to any interested groups. It was great to be so well received and to see the outpouring of support and interest of participating in cleanup activities from yacht club members (boaters) and even the princesses of the clubs. The princess of Red Eye Yacht Club is extremely interested in clean water-ways as she designated Maryland Waterways foundation as her charity and is donating all proceeds she receives, including for her trumpet rendition of taps at the opening ceremonies of various clubs to MWF.

By the time this edition is in print we will have com-pleted our 2nd Annual Neighborhood Cleanup in Luther-ville with Dulaney Valley Improvement Association along with a host of volunteers on March 6, a cleanup around Eastpoint Mall with Venturing Crew 726 on March 7 and another on March 12 on Fitch Avenue in Nottingham, sponsored by Dr. Santangelo of Family Chiropractic. We will be preparing for a Sussex community cleanup at Cox’s Point Park and our big cleanup on Grays Road in Dundalk Sponsored by Key Brewing on April 17.

One event that we are so looking forward to after

postponing and eventually cancelling last year is Riverfest. This concert fundraiser will take place on Saturday, June 5 at Conrad’s Ruth Villa and will feature the bands, Crack the Sky and Petty Coat Junction. Tickets will go on sale soon and proceeds will go toward much needed supplies for cleanups and other activities to improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

We are looking forward to an active year ahead, includ-ing environmental college interns this summer. If you are

interested in volunteering or know of a college student interested in interning with MWF, contact [email protected]


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* Restaurants close by land & water, Delivery Availability * Fully stocked boat store with professional parts specialist & discount pricing * Live Aboards welcome * Home of Maryland Waterways Foundation - we care about our Chesapeake Bay *Home of Riverside Yacht Club - Established 1960 *Venturing Crew 726 & Sea Scout Ship 7117 - on site for youth seeking outdoor activities - camping, kayaks, canoes, fishing and more *Adjacent 30 acre park with boat ramp *Charter Fishing Boats on Site Call for more information

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Spring 2021 25

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Living on or near the Chesapeake Bay means BOATING! The wonderful waters of the Bay call to

us. Looking at water is one thing but floating on it is another. With so many boats on the market, which is the best boat for You?

Start by deciding what your Boating needs are. A friend once said that “you really need two boats”. One boat is for fast fishing, but fancy enough for family fun. The second boat is for crabbing and slow, shallow fishing.

Chesapeake Bay waves are closer together than those in the Ocean. A Bay Boat needs to be able to handle them. Aluminum boats are easy maintenance but will bounce your eyeballs out. A Fiberglass boat will be heavier and smoother in the water. A deep V bow will help you cut through the waves.

Your Bay Boat will be more usable if it is portable. This means something under 25 foot, on a roadworthy trailer. You may want to travel to Florida, The Great Lakes, or just around the state. There are a slew of great boat ramps and bay access areas. Having a boat cover will protect your craft during storage and transport. Do not forget the licenses, taxes, and insurance fees.

A serious fishing boat means a center console fiberglass craft with a high bow and high sides. No cabin is needed, and modern electronics are a must. A big 4-stroke engine, around 115 HP, for speed and a smaller 7-9 HP for trolling will help. These fishing machines should be 18 to 22 foot long. No marina fees required and great mobility with a great trailer. Oh, and make sure to have cooler seating to ice down your catch. T-Tops add shade but also are harder to cover unless they fold down.

Crabbing requires a slower and lower boat. Again, get something transportable on a decent trailer. You need low sides, wide beam, and some shade potential. The motor needs to go slow so you can run a trot line or check traps. A larger engine can get you to a location and a small electric or gas motor can handle the slow crabbing. Boats that are quiet catch more crabs. A Carolina Skiff is pretty bullet proof and popular.

Pleasure Craft is another Bay option. This will be the Marina boat rigged with all the luxuries like toilets, showers, AC, sound systems, and bunks. A bow thruster will help navigate tight Marina slips. Great electron-ics help prevent accidents. Traveling around the Bay is great fun, and the Family will love this comfort. Marina boats are larger, costlier, suck more fuel, and have constant maintenance expenses.

The Marina location limits your Bay Access. These pretty boats are also rarely used to drag bloody fish onboard.

A Combination Boat is also an option. This trailer able boat can be stored at a marina or taken with you. You can swim, fish, and crab. Perhaps a Cutty Cabin with a toilet. Again, you are looking at something around 20-25 foot, with a low maintenance, reliable 4-stroke engine, electronics, deep V bow, and enough power for your needs. The C-Hawk is a good choice.

Target a high-volume boat dealer. You also want a dealer that will ser-vice and support your purchase. Used boat markets are huge. Be careful when you look for a “bargain boat”. You usually get what you pay for.

Whatever floats your boat is a personal choice. The worst choice you can make is for a boat that stays parked on the trailer or in a marina.

For more Montana Grant, find him afloat at www.montana-grantfishing.com. Montana Grant

For more Montana Grant, catch him at www.motanagrantfishing.com.


Tips on Selecting Your Best New Boat By Montana Grant

Fishing & Hunting Reviews, Recipes, & Information

montanagrantfishing.com

Montana GrantAs a retired Educator, Consultant, Naturalist, Guide, and Freelance Writer, Montana Grant spends much of his life sharing secrets, tips, and stories about the great outdoors. His roots are from Western Maryland’s Appalachian Mountains but reach to Montana’s Great Rockies. Montana Grant is an award-winning educator in public schools and universities. As an outdoor writer, Scoutmaster, hunting and fishing guide, or just a friend that shares his love of the outdoors, Montana Grant is dedicated to teaching others how to appreciate, respect, and enjoy nature. His blog can be followed at www.montanagrantfishing.com.

Spring 2021 27

2015 Turkey Point Road Essex, MD 21221

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Are you ready? By Captain Dale Plummer

Are you ready? I know I am. Winter has been long and Covid-19 restrictions have made it seem even longer. I am itching to be out on the water and I am probably not be the only one out there. So, I ask again, “Are you, and your boat, ready?” Here are some tips to help get your boat as ready as you are to hit the water this year.

Use some of those pre-season days to plan for bright-er days of boating ahead:

• Take a boat safety course online or in person whether it is required or not. • Read your owner’s manual and consult the manufac turer’s recommended maintenance guidelines.

• Familiarize (or re-familiarize) yourself with your boat, its components, features and safety precautions.

You should hire a professional to give the boat spring tune-up. Regardless, be sure to complete the following checklist before leaving the dock:

• Inspect all safety equipment on board, including fire extinguishers, flares, PFDs, and first-aid kits.

• Check all lights to make sure they are operating properly.

• Check for any electrical issues, such as loose,discon-nected, or corroded conductors.• Check that the battery is properly secured to the vessel.• Check for any small leaks, loose hoses, and connections.

• Check the fuel tank for leaks and proper ventilation.

• Check the fuel filters to make sure no water is present.

• Fill your tank with the freshest, highest-quality fuel available.

• Change and check the oil level before starting the boat for the first time.• If you will be trailering your vessel to the ramp, inspect your trailer prior to your first outing.

And, of course, the final piece of advice from the TowBoatUS guy is to make sure your BoatUS towing membership is current and you have insurance on your boats. Towing and salvage can be an expensive crisis for those who are not prepared. Call Christine in the office at 410-255-8700 and she can explain the difference and help you to understand what you need to be really pre-pared, this spring. As always, we are happy to help!

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Spring 2021 29

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Spring 2021 31


Pondering our next move So yesterday was the

first really nice day we’d had this year. We sat in the sun in the cockpit with a glass of wine and con-templated the coming year. It’s always the question, isn’t it?Where do you want to go?

This led me to ponder on all the options availa-ble to us here in the north end of the Chesapeake, and, boy, are there a lot. I started thinking about the kind of decision tree we always go through before making plans.

In our case it’s more like a decision-shrubbery, but I digress.

So, I thought I’d lay out the kinds of things that go through our minds as we contemplate setting out for the spring.

First and foremost: How much do I trust the boat right now? It’s not an idle question. Your faith in your boat tells you how far you’re willing to go away from civilization, how far offshore, and in

what kinds of weather. For us, we’ve gotten our venerable Atomic 4 cranking along beautifully, but our sails are iffy, and the Genoa is trash. That, for us, means light air and more an eye to gunk holing than to any grand cruising.

Second, how long can we be away? In my case, I write, and my wife is an artist, so we work from wherever we happen to be,

so schedules aren’t an issue. Things can get in the way, though, even without work com-mitments. Family events, doctor’s appointments, any number of must-do social events (rath-er done in this year by the plague), all have to be figured in.

Third, what does the wallet look like? How much fuel costs can we bear right now, how much provision-ing? Not so much an issue on a liveaboard sailboat, but if you’re cranking twin 450’s on a Sea Ray, you could discover yourself washing dishes on the Eastern Shore in order to get home.

Then there’s the raw question of how long we feel like being away from dock? How long without a proper shower, easy internet access, and the occasional pizza? Living aboard, there’s frankly not much difference for us,

but there may be for you.

And finally: What haven’t we seen? What sounds like fun? What would we like to revisit? What sings to us this year?

This spring is shaping up to be lovely, weather-wise. We’re getting our inoculations this month, so we’re feeling a bit better about calling at strange ports (and we’re smart enough to be careful and take precautions, and you should as well). After a long winter and the lockdown, a few weeks on the water sounds like just the ticket.

See you out there.

Don and Gail Elwell and First Cat MagellanAboard the SV Constellationwww.thefloatingempire.comwww.wildshorepress.comwww.gailelwell.com

Live Aboard by Don and Gail Elwell

“I’m so done with this.”

Here in the upper Bay, we have a glut of wonderful places to explore. This is Gunpowder Creek.

Be realistic. How far do you really want to go?

We can’t wait!

Spring 2021 33

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100 Talbot Blvd. Chestertown, MD 21620 410-778-2260 Dockmastersinsurance.comDockmasters is a division of Fleetwood Insurance Group

www.FleetwoodInsuranceGroup.com

Dockmasters has long-standing access to the leading recreational marine boat insurance and yacht insurance under-writers. We are able to provide the broadest coverage at the best terms to our clients due, primarily, to our extensive and long experi-ence in the marine industry.

Our top-rated customer support staff is quick to respond, especially when you need it most; like in times of loss. Our constant com-munication with our surveyors and claims adjusters is just one example of our commit-ment to fair and equitable claim settlements for our insured.

WE COVER ANY VESSEL INCLUDING:

• Small Boats• Yachts• High Performance• Houseboats• SeaDoo & Jet Ski• Guide Boats• Six Pack Charters• Wooden & Antique Boats• Marine Service Centers• Yacht Brokers Insurance• Marine & Yacht Clubs (Marine Operators Legal Liability)

Dan Zottarelli 410-708-0240 Insurance Agent,

Experienced Dockmaster and Captain

Spring 2021 35


The Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) would like to con-gratulate Conner Hooper (pictured) on the completion of his six-week On-the-Job Training (OJT) with Washburn’s Boat Yard in Solomons, MD.

Hooper heard about the OJT opportunity from a friend who works in the boating industry. “I needed work and didn’t want to get a job in the fast-food industry, which I thought was all that was available,” he explained. “I wanted something mechanical.”

Hooper started his OJT with significant mechanical experience from his hobby of riding and working on dirt bikes. He also started a small business fixing lawnmowers and weed eaters. “I picked up ones that people were giving away and I fixed them and sold them,” he explained.

During his OJT, Hooper learned to change out bilge pumps, water pumps, and propellers. He assisted Washburn’s mechanics with motor

installation, learned the checklist of winterization, and picked up some basic electrical theory. “Conner is naturally mechanically inclined and smart,” commented Bill Branden, Manager of Washburn’s Boat Yard. “We spent some time with ABYC [American Boat and Yacht Council] electrical materials and he went from zero to understanding basic electrical theory.”

“I would recommend this program to others, if boats are what they want to do,” said Hooper. “I think it was a good experience.”

This Project is funded by the State of Maryland’s EARN Maryland Grant Program, administered by the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. For more information about the Marine Trades Association of Maryland, visit mtam.org, facebook.com/Discover-MarylandBoating and Instagram: @WorkontheWater.

Marine Trades Association of Maryland On-the-Job Trainee Success

The Chesapeake Bay Power Boat Association is a Maryland based group of power boat owners who share in their love for the Chesapeake Bay waterways. We are a Not For Profit organization with more than 3,500 website members. The CBPBA holds numerous activities and events for the whole family throughout the year, some of which to promote worthy causes.

Chesapeake Bay Power Boat Association is a Mary-land based group of power boat owners who share in their love for the Chesapeake Bay waterways. We are a Not For Profit organization with more than 3,500 website members. The CBPBA holds numerous activities and events for the whole family throughout the year, some of which to promote worthy causes. Chesapeake Bay Power Boat Association is a Maryland based group of power boat owners who share in their love for the Chesapeake Bay waterways. We are a Not For Profit organization with more than 3,500 website members. The CBPBA holds numerous activities and events for the whole family throughout the year, some of which to promote worthy causes. Chesa-peake Bay Power Boat Association is a Maryland based group of power boat owners who share in their love for

the Chesapeake Bay waterways. We are a Not For Profit organization with more than 3,500 website members. The CBPBA holds numerous activities and events for the whole family throughout the year, some of which to promote wor-thy causes. Chesapeake Bay Power Boat Association is a Maryland based group of power boat owners who share in their love for the Chesapeake Bay waterways. We are a Not For Profit organization with more than 3,500 web-site members. The CBPBA holds numerous activities and events for the whole family throughout the year, some of which to promote worthy causes. Chesapeake Bay Power Boat Association is a Maryland based group of power boat owners who share in their love for the Chesapeake Bay waterways. We are a Not For Profit organization with more than 3,500 website members. The CBPBA holds numerous activities and events for the whole family throughout the year, some of which to promote worthy causes. Our rapidly growing membership includes powerboat

Join us at a Monthly Membership Meeting to learn more. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30PM, at Maryland Yacht Club 1500 Fairview Beach Road Pasadena, MD 21122

is a Maryland based group of power boat owners who

share in their love for the Ches-apeake Bay waterways.

We are a Not For Profit organ-ization with more than 3,500 web-site members. The CBPBA holds numerous activities and events for the whole family throughout the year, some of which to promote worthy causes. Chesapeake Bay Power Boat Association is a Maryland based group of power boat owners who share in their love for the Chesapeake Bay waterways. We are a Not For Profit organization with more than 3,500 website members. The CBPBA holds numerous activities and events for the whole family throughout the year, some of which to promote worthy causes. Chesapeake Bay PowerBoat Association is a Maryland based group of power boat owners who share in their love for the Chesa-peake Bay waterways. We are a Not For Profit organization with more

Our rapidly growing membership includes powerboat Join us at a Monthly Membership Meeting to learn more. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30PM, at Maryland Yacht

Up Coming CBPBA EventsSaturday April 17th Frostbite CruiseSunday May 2nd Shakedown Cruise Skipper’s PierTuesday May 25th Blue Angel’s Airshow Raft-Up

FREE to download, FREE to use!

Download the FREE app today and let us know what

you think with the in-app Feedback button

“BEST NEW BOATING APP OUT THERE!”

- App Store Review

Did you know Argo is developed by a Chesapeake

Bay Boater?!

Pet Portraits by Hutch

See my gallery atpaulhutchinsart.com

Original, affordable artwork of your special pet, painted from your favorite photo. Makes a great gift and keepsake, framed and ready to hang.

[email protected] 410-817-4270

Spring 2021 37

Boat Dog

Captain Mambo, Brian Godfrey’s dog enjoying Taylor Creek in Joppatowne

Dj and Josey’s dog Revel out on “the Redneck Riviera”

16 yr old, Italian Greyhound, Daisy is a strong swimmer, but she pre-fers tanning on the swim platform.

-from Chase, MD

Upper Bay Boating

welcomes pictures of your boat, boat dog, family & friends having a good time on the bay. Also, if you are a writer, please get in touch with us – you may become a regular columnist. The Viking 38 @gmail.com


Spring 2021 39

moreBoat Dog

Marty Bass’ puppy Dixie on Weather Oar Knot. Port of Call

Bear Creek MD

The Wooden Family dog almost had to walk the plank for this one!!!

Aubrey Schnieder’s dog says “God Bless America” and this well fitted

floatation device.

Cash riding the Chesapeake Bay out of Tolchester Marina. Cha-Ching!

There are new engine cutoff device wear requirements for recreational boat operators as part of the January 1, 2021,

passage of National Defense Authorization Act that included a U.S. Coast Guard Reauthorization. These devices, commonly referred to as engine cutoff switches (ECOS), are designed to prevent a boat-strike injury if an operator is accidentally ejected overboard while underway.

Engine cutoff devices can be located at the helm of the boat or on the tiller or body of an outboard engine and typically connect a boat’s operator to the cutoff switch with a lanyard. Some ECOS devices eliminate the lanyard and rely on wireless proximity devices to shut down an engine if the operator goes overboard.

Effective April 1, 2021, the new law requires a vessel oper-ator to use either a helm or outboard lanyard or wireless ECOS on certain vessels less than 26 feet when traveling on plane or above displacement speed. These vessels include (1) boats that have a functioning engine cutoff device installed at the helm or on an outboard engine or have wireless ECOS, or (2) boats manufactured beginning January 2020. The Coast Guard increased the number of boats required to have ECOS installed after this date in an effort to reduce boating accidents and fatalities.

Exceptions to the ECOS requirement include if the main helm of the vessel is in an enclosed cabin or the ves-sel is not operating on plane or at displacement speed. Low-speed activities such as fishing or docking do not require use of an ECOS. The vessel operator is also exempt if the boat’s motor produces less than 115 lbs. of static thrust – or about the size of a 2-hp engine.

The new law applies to all federally navigable water-ways. As this is a federal law, states do not have the ability to enforce the new ECOS reg-ulation — though seven states (Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Louisiana, Nevada, New Jer-

sey and Texas) currently have their own ECOS laws. BoatUS expects most states to amend their regulations to match federal law over the coming years. While boat operators who fail to follow the new requirement could face a $100 civil penalty for the first offense, BoatUS expects the U.S. Coast Guard’s initial focus will be education.

Boaters are encouraged to check the U.S. Coast Guard website for additional information on this new use requirement and other safety regulations and recommendations.

“BoatUS supports responsible use of cutoff devices and wants to get the word out to boaters to be aware of this new requirement so they can prepare,” said BoatUS Manager of Government Affairs David Kennedy. “We believe the new requirement allows recreational boaters to operate their vessels in a practical manner while increasing boating safety.”

Kennedy suggests that boat operators double check to see that their engine cutoff switch is working and begin the season by getting into a good habit of wearing it.

Suggested social media post:No fooling: Federal boat engine

cutoff switch law goes into effect April 1. @BoatUS reminds boat owners to ensure they are in compliance this season https://bit.ly/3qEQpPr #boatusonwatch #boat-ingsafety #boatinglaws

About Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS):

Celebrating more than 50 years, BoatUS is the nation’s largest organi-zation of recreational boaters with more than 700,000 members. We are the boat owners’ voice on Capitol Hill and fight for their rights. We are The Boat Owners Auto Club and help ensure a roadside trailer breakdown doesn’t end a boating or fishing trip before it begins. When boats break down on the water, TowBoatUS brings them safely back to the launch ramp or dock, 24/7. BoatUS offers GEICO Marine Insurance policies that give boat owners affordable, spe-cialized coverage and superior service they need. We help keep boaters safe and our waters clean with assistance from the nonprofit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water. Visit BoatUS.com.

New Boat Engine Cutoff Switch Law Goes Into Effect April 1Applies to boats less than 26 feet operating on plane or above displacement speed


Spring 2021 41

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heading to the bay bridge boat show!

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