"Eisboch" wrote in message
. ..

"JimH" wrote in message
...


Conditions may vary depending on where one boats. We do not see the fog
events on Lake Erie as you see in the NE Atlantic. The need for radar
also depends on the type of boating one does.

I had radar on my 32 footer and used it mainly to monitor possible
approaching storms. We only made daytime crossings and I kept an eye on
weather and sea conditions.....if they were not favorable, we would not
travel.

The majority of boaters on Lake Erie do not travel by night and the
majority do not have radar.

The key piece of hardware I used most was my gps/chartplotter, something
I would consider more practical in my area than radar.

BTW: True or false - If you have a radar unit does it always *have* to
be on when underway?


True, although often debated. Rule 7 of Navigation rules, to quote:

"Radar is not required on vessels under 1600 GT (Title 33 CFR part
164.35), however, Rule 7 states that proper use shall be made of radar
equipment if fitted and operational."

In other words, whoever has one must use it.

And I guess I agree with your view regarding different boating areas.

Eisboch


Yep. At least COLREG Rule 7 would suggest that:
http://www.boatsafe.com/nauticalknow...g/colregs.html