Whenever we hear the word sink, we inevitably picture Jack and Rose trying to escape the doomed Titanic. Yes, boats tend to decline, but modern engineering and safety protocols have reduced the percentage of sinking to a minimum.
Bass Boat, one of the most popular recreational boats in use these days, is one example. Most people prefer bass fishing as bass boats have got a sturdy build.
If you are going to own a bass ship or planning to go fishing for a family vacation, you may have concerns about the durability of this boat. Is this boat safe? What about the accidents I hear in the news? We are going to dive deep into this matter.
Bass boats are designed in such a way that there is virtually no chance of sinking. But can bass boat sink? It depends more on boatmanship than the vessel itself. Newer boats are filled with floatation foam, so even if they break into two parts, it won’t sink. Owning a bass boat is fun and means lots of adventures.
What Type of Boat is a Bass Boat?
It is a high-speed boat that has a “Planing hull.” This hull becomes a hydroplane at hi-speed, meaning it comes out of the water from the front side. These boats have a little draft and are technically designed to float ON the water than in it. So, it can float in shallow water as low as 1 foot.
Bass boats are meant to float in a freshwater lake and become precarious to use in saltwater such as sea and ocean. Saltwater corrodes the hull and the motor at the back.
Are Bass Boats Safe?
They are safe. Modern technology in the boat building industry has introduced “Floatation Foam” in boats. Before diving deep into this, let’s consider what keeps the boat afloat. It’s Buoyancy. The more of it, the less the chances are that the boat will capsize.
Flotation Foam gives extra buoyancy to the boat. Even if the boat capsizes or starts to sink by any unfortunate event, it can’t go underwater. The boat will linger on the surface.
If the hull gets damaged and water begins to fill in the deck, then stay calm. This foam won’t let the bass boat sink, and you will have time to take out the water. Meanwhile, move towards the shore as fast as you can.
Flotation Foam is also a sound absorber. During fishing, silence is key so that fish don’t get scared away. The foam absorbs all the sounds made on the deck. This foam also acts as an insulator for the electrical system in a boat and also prevents overheating.
What are the Dangers?
Speed thrills but kills. The same thing is applied here as these boats are fast. Unlike cars, the boats cannot apply sudden brakes, and it takes time to turn. This is hazardous, and one must avoid hi-speed.
Bass Boats and Sinking
If you own a bass boat, some questions will pop up in your head, such as:
- Can bass boat sink in shallow waters?
- How shallow can you run the boat?
Let’s find out what odds are and how you can survive in any unforeseen situation.
Can Bass Boat Sink in Shallow Waters?
Things that can damage the hull are varied and dangerous—striking the shore, tree stumps, a rock in shallow waters, etc. When this happens, try to go to the shore as quickly as possible. Water does take time to enter. The boat will not completely sink thanks to the ingenious design and the Flotation Form.
One must avoid bad weather. Water, if stayed in the deck for too long, can mess with the electronics and circuitry. Water left on the deck due to rain can cause molding and other problems.
If you experience large waves, then point the nose of the boat in the direction of waves. Don’t let the waves strike your boat from the sides. Hitting from the sides will increase healing in the boat, and It will increase the chances of filling the deck with water or, worse, capsizing it. By pointing waves head-on, you can go up and over the dangerous waves with minimum fuss.
Bass boats docked during a thunderstorm can take significant damage as they strike against the dock and are often filled by lake water. Be sure to check for this scenario after bad weather.
Another common mistake experts and beginners both make is forgetting to put a stuff plug on. When removed, this plug is used to drain water in the deck, but if left unplugged can cause the deck to fill up. It is nothing too dangerous. Try to rectify it as soon as you notice it.
How Shallow Can You Go?
It is essential to know that you can run on at least 2-3 feet deep water. Before going on the ride, it is necessary to know the water’s depth. One easy way to find it is by buying a depth finder or fishfinder.
You can get them at quite a low price. In shallow waters, it is advisable to run at a slow and steady speed. This is to keep the boat from hitting the bottom. Now another question arises, what to do if it hits bottom. You must stop immediately.
Revving the motor up can cause more damage to the engine. Your priority should be to protect the engine because it can cost you a lot more than a damaged hull.
If it’s shallow water, you can easily hop in the water and push your boat to the shores. If it’s relatively deep, then use the oar to make yourself toward the dock.
Best Bass Boat for Dangerous Waters
If you are looking to buy a bass boat, consider the most popular bass boat manufacturers, i.e., Rangers, Nitro, Bass Cat, and Tracker. All these are well built and safe for use, and most importantly, affordable.
Nitro Z-6 is one right choice along with Triton 17 and Ranger 7117 in under $30,000. These powerful fishing boats come with a fair warranty offer. You must judge them based on hull and construction quality, engine power, capacity, and size of the boat.
Safety Measures to Take
While riding a boat, you are subjected to a lot of uncertainties. No matter how healthy and safe the boat is, there are still some chances that something goes sideways because water can be rough sometimes. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Always drive the boat at moderate speeds.
Whether you plan a family trip or individual leisure time, always wear life jackets. Rush to the shore if you see the slightest leakage in the hull and be very cautious of the surroundings. Try to avoid being heavier than recommended.
Bass boats usually accompany two to three people plus supplies depending on the size. Keep your safety gear with you, and don’t let anyone ride unless they know how to swim.
Final Words
That’s it. If you want things to go smoothly, then it is advised to adhere to the proper instructions before sailing. Just clean and maintain your boat routinely, and you’re good to survive the harshest of conditions and storms.
