Thousands of people in Northwest Ontario participate in recreational boating activities, such as fishing, exploration, sporting events, and picnics in the water, to name a few. Although every trip is different, the list of things you need to have onboard usually includes the same. Whether you’re fishing for some spotted seatrout in the Vermillion Bay or looking to take your camping trip into the water at the lake of the woods, we’ll be sharing the ultimate boating checklist for sailing in Northwest Ontario lakes.
From setting sail to docking on your boat port or residential floating dock, check out everything you need on your boat for smooth sailing.
The Ultimate Boating Checklist for Sailing in the Northwest Ontario Lakes
1. Safety Gear
Even though boating and cruising are among the safest forms of travel and recreation, accidents can still occur for several reasons, such as a rogue wave, mechanical issues, fire, risky driving, etc. Therefore, safety gear is a top priority and goes beyond investing in Coast Guard mandated gear. Other items include life jackets, personal flotation devices (PFDs), fire extinguishers, and visual/audio signaling devices like flare guns and alarms.
2. First-Aid Kit
Minor scrapes and bruises, along with more severe injuries, are relatively common when sailing on boats. Therefore, you need to keep a basic first-aid on board for emergencies. However, you must ensure that it’s fully stocked with essential items, such as bandages, gauze dressings, scissors, medical tape, tourniquet, and important antibiotics.
3. Documentation
All motorized 10+ hp boat and PWC owners in Canada must carry their Pleasure Craft License with them at all times. You should also have digital or physical proof of insurance with you in an accident. This isn’t legally required but is highly encouraged.
4. Anchor, Rode, and Extra Lines
Most people leave their anchors and rode (the chain and line) because they have no plan to anchor out in the middle of the lake. However, this can come in handy if you stop and stabilize your boat for sightseeing or lunch. You can also bring extra lines if you need to dock on your friend’s floating dock for boats or raft up with another boat in case of an emergency.
5. A VHF-Radio and Your Cellphone
A boating trip is a great way to unplug and connect with nature. However, this doesn’t mean you should leave your cellphone behind because you never know when you’ll need on-water assistance. We also recommend buying a VHF radio since these devices can operate with a network.
6. Emergency Repair Items and Supplies
Most boat owners don’t think they’ll need to be swinging a wrench while having a good time onboard. However, mechanical failures can happen, so you’ll need a proper toolbox and repair equipment, such as a portable jumper jack for a dead battery and a flashlight for illuminating dark compartments, etc. Undoubtedly, you’ll bring food and drinks on board. However, it’s a good idea always to pack extra water and fresh fruit to keep you hydrated at all times.
Looking for Docking and Porting Solutions in Northwest Ontario? Try Nor Col EZ Dock
And there you have it – the ultimate boating checklist for sailing in the Northwest Ontario Lakes. At Nor Col EZ Dock, we offer more than just docking products, accessories, and solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes, such as plastic floating docks in Northwest Ontario. We also aim to help our clients and readers learn more about watercraft essentials, such as maintenance, safety tips, and how-tos. For more information regarding our products and services, feel free to call (800) 654-8168.
