"Vic Smith" wrote in message
...
I was reading some comments about it elsewhere and got to thinking.
When/if I get to the point of launching my own boat, I'll have to
spend some time watching ramp activity before I do it myself.
Used to launch/retrieve with my buddies years ago, but I forgot
everything except how hard it was to crank the boat onto the bunks.
I think the owner was leery of backing in far enough to float it.
Oddly, I don't remember any problems pushing it off when launching.
Maybe we were stronger setting out fishing than we were when we got
back, or maybe it's just how gravity works.
I don't remember any problems at all.
But from my reading it seems the ramp is a good comedy show sometimes,
and a good drama when the hotheads get involved.
Anybody care to share some "outstanding" experiences?

--Vic

Vic,

Unfortunately, some can't offer advice without taking an unwarranted shot at
another, and not answer the question. You have a legitimate question that
deserves a
legitimate answer.

You are correct. Go to the ramp, and watch how the experienced guys (and
gals) are doing it. You'll learn alot. If you offer a hand (which is always
appreciated), ask questions.

The best advice I can give is to make sure you
back down far enough to wet all of the bunks, then pull back out to the
proper depth. It's a LOT easier to move a boat on wet bunks rather than dry.
I actually power my boat all the way up to the stop. You can do this w/out
revving the engine at the last second. You just need to get a feel for the
headway speed you need to do it. Many ramps frown of folks revving their
boats up to the trailer stops. It can make a mess of the bottom of the ramp,
and kick up all sorts of stuff. So, wet the bunks, and coast up as far as
you can.

Leave the boat in forward, connect the winch strap, and winch her the rest
of the way up.
Keeping the boat in forward, even at idle, will help immensely. Jump back to
the helm,
put her in neutral, and cut the engine(s).

I hope this helps.

--Mike