On Sat, 19 Nov 2005 02:42:07 GMT, "NOYB" wrote:

The longest stretch that I'd have to run outside would be from Venice to
Boca Grande Pass, right?

===============

Not sure I understand your question. You can run inside the entire
way if you want, only a few slow speed zones and you should fit under
most of the bridges with no problem. The big decision is really at
Tampa since the Sarasota inlets are questionable without local
knowledge, probably OK for outboards however, just not in my boat.

Coming in at Boca Grande has a lot to recommend it in any case since
Pine Island Sound is wide open, usually flat water, and essentially
with no enforced speed restrictions. There is a narrow cut close to
the beach on the north side of Boca Grande inlet which avoids the long
trip out and around. I've been through there twice with 5 1/2 ft
draft and had no problems. The locals do it all the time it appears.