In some situations, boating in waters that are shallow is unavoidable. As a former captain, I would run incredibly shallow to reach snorkeling reefs or pristine sandbars. Without question, it presents a risk to boat motors and hulls because of the risk of running aground. If you’re driving your boat shallow, you need to know these 8 safety tips for operating in shallow water.
Trim Up The Engine
Fortunately, outboard motors and inboard/outboard motors are capable of being tilted upward via hydraulics.
One of the best ways to lessen the likelihood of striking the bottom with the engine running is to trim up the engine.
However, avoid trimming the motor to the point that the water intake is above the surface. In this situation, you put the engine at risk of overheating because it is not able to ingest water to remain cool.
Slow Down
I, unfortunately, have witnessed unsuspecting boaters traveling at a high rate of speed before making contact with waters too shallow to operate.
Unfortunately, boats are prone to becoming grounded, especially when striking the bottom at a fast speed.
When driving the boat in shallow areas, reduce your speed to a minimum. The throttle should be positioned clutch ahead. So, put the boat in neutral before moving the throttle forward, but just until it clicks in.
The slow rate of speed will better allow you to read the waters and prevent damage if you do make contact with the seafloor.
Know Where You Are In The Tide Phase
Importantly, if you’re operating in waters influenced by tides, it is essential to know where you stand in the tidal phase.
Remember, if you’re driving towards shallow water on an outgoing tide, the water will only become more shallow. Without question, this puts you at risk of becoming grounded until the tide rises.
Conversely, on an incoming tide, you can count on the water to continually rise. With that being said, the boat can continue to maneuver into the shallows so long as you have enough clearance based on the boat’s draft.
Read The Waters Ahead
As a former captain, I routinely read the waters ahead because it is one of the best ways to determine depth.
Reading the waters ahead prevents you from getting into trouble before it is too late. Importantly, dark waters typically are associated with deep water. Conversely, shallow areas are most often lightly colored.
However, understand that shallow reefs will often appear dark compared to light. Beyond reading depth, looking ahead will help you identify rocks, trees, and other debris that can be struck by the boat.
Monitor Your Depth Sounding Electronics
Depth-sounding electronics are a helpful resource when boating in shallow areas. The depth sounder will measure the depth beneath the boat.
However, when in extremely shallow spots, the depth sounder will not display a reading. A second issue to consider is the mounting position of the transducer. The transducer transmits the signal from beneath the waterline to measure the depth.
Unfortunately, an improperly calibrated depth sounder will not display the correct readings. Nonetheless, it is a resource to use to get a general idea of the amount of water beneath the boat.
Know The Draft Of Your Boat
The draft of a boat is how deep the hull sits beneath the surface of the water. Knowing the boat’s draft will help you determine how shallow the boat can safely operate.
For this reason, it is imperative to consult the vessel’s manual to determine the draft. If you expect to enter waters less than the draft, turn around and find a new route.
Have A Spotter Positioned On The Bow
Similar to reading the water ahead as the driver, when you have others onboard, position them on the bow.
Positioning an extra set of eyes on the bow will better help to read the water. A forward spotter is more capable of keeping dialed in, whereas the driver is checking the depth finder and adjusting the throttle.
Without a doubt, the spotter is more likely to catch a glimpse of dangers and signal the driver.
Don’t Suck Up Muck And Sand Into The Engine
The boat motor, when trimmed down, is likely to draw muck and sand into the intake when operating in shallow water.
Muck and sand restrict water flow through the engine cooling system. Clogged-up intakes cause overheating and potential engine failure. The impeller is no longer able to receive cooling water to circulate through the engine.
Importantly, you will want to trim out the motor so it is not pulling sand and muck from the bottom while driving through shallow water.
Use These 8 Shallow Water Tips
The next time you’re running your boat skinny, make sure to use these 8 shallow water tips. Although running a boat shallow is entirely possible, it is important to keep safety measures in mind. Without a doubt, you don’t want to put yourself or your passengers at risk.
