Casting Near Boats and Docks

MikeF-NH · 07-23-2014, 01:42 PM

I see both sides to this story:
1.) as a bass fisherman, I firmly believe that all water on the lake is open for public use including water under a dock/boat. If a home owner were nasty to me I might be tempted to remind them of that and that the law protects my right to fish that water if that person chooses to call a Conservation Officer. BUT BUT BUT
2.) as a person that likes to enjoy my time on the water, I think it is my responsibility to respect other people enjoying the water. As such, if there is anyone around the dock (on it or in the water), I cruise on by with a friendly wave and "hi how's it going?" and ask others in my boat to not cast until we pass the area.

I like to think I extend common courtesy and expect it back. If I get unsolicited grief from a shore front owner because I dared casting to his dock when he was looking out the kitchen window (and my sons are not on board), I don't mind returning the favor.

Also, if I or someone in my boat accidentally hooks a dock or line, I ALWAYS remove the hook. I never cast (or allow my guest to cast) toward a boat that has a cloth cover or other upholstery that may be damaged by hooking.

Again, this is a courtesy issue (from both sides). I only get involved with these discussions when people suggest that they have a right to push people away from their property. Ask nicely and most fishermen will leave. Act nasty and expect back what you gave. JMHO

07-23-2014, 01:42 PM	#24
MikeF-NH Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 321 Thanks: 2 Thanked 120 Times in 80 Posts	I see both sides to this story: 1.) as a bass fisherman, I firmly believe that all water on the lake is open for public use including water under a dock/boat. If a home owner were nasty to me I might be tempted to remind them of that and that the law protects my right to fish that water if that person chooses to call a Conservation Officer. BUT BUT BUT 2.) as a person that likes to enjoy my time on the water, I think it is my responsibility to respect other people enjoying the water. As such, if there is anyone around the dock (on it or in the water), I cruise on by with a friendly wave and "hi how's it going?" and ask others in my boat to not cast until we pass the area. I like to think I extend common courtesy and expect it back. If I get unsolicited grief from a shore front owner because I dared casting to his dock when he was looking out the kitchen window (and my sons are not on board), I don't mind returning the favor. Also, if I or someone in my boat accidentally hooks a dock or line, I ALWAYS remove the hook. I never cast (or allow my guest to cast) toward a boat that has a cloth cover or other upholstery that may be damaged by hooking. Again, this is a courtesy issue (from both sides). I only get involved with these discussions when people suggest that they have a right to push people away from their property. Ask nicely and most fishermen will leave. Act nasty and expect back what you gave. JMHO

The Following 4 Users Say Thank You to MikeF-NH For This Useful Post:
AC2717 (07-23-2014), mhtranger (07-24-2014), NH_boater (07-23-2014), Pineedles (07-24-2014)