First off, I would like to formally introduce myself by saying that I learn heaps every day from this site, and the only reason that I rarely post is because answers are usually a few search terms away (
*gasp*--- there's a search function??
). Seems a good way to contribute is to share my experiences with the RIbNet community, at least I hope it will be entertaining enough to be read while on "the throne".
I started ribbing about a year ago and I have been making up for lost time since then. I had an Avon Seasport 4.65 with a Johnson 70 that I took offshore Southern California this year to chase Yellowtail. That boat was NOT designed to go offshore, but we did it anyway. While the hull was too flat for "offshore" use, the engine was (and continues to be) rock solid reliable. Equipped with a console mounted DSC VHF and Chartplotter/fishfinder, I would venture out as far as I had radio contact. Got caught one too many times out in rough weather, and on one particular crossing back from Catalina Island, I noticed the hull starting to crack under my feet. Hypalon that was far beyond its useful life sealed the deal, and I scrapped the boat.
That boat put me on top of tons of fish and lobster that year. May she rest in peace.
