The issue of one 'sludging' ones filters from a cruddy tank is more
than just a 'fine point'. Just earlier this year, supposedly a Brit
lost his boat onto the jetty into Charleston SC Harbor when his engine
failed and he got caught in the rage of the inlet.

..... and for that very reason its a good idea to have a well
maintained fuel system, even a few gallon 'day tank' that holds back a
few gallons all 'ready to go' in case of such an event. The more and
more I think of it a small reserve tank of a few gallons makes all the
sense in the world - enabling one to motor on an hour or two; instead
of power-puking into the bilge while trying to change a damn filter
set. :-)