• Complete a “Float Plan” prior to going out every time. I have an electronic copy of a float plan that can be completed on a computer. If you would like a copy email your request to me at
basstobasics@sbcglobal.net .
• Establish a pre-arranged communication system with a person that has all of your insurance, towing company and other important information. During my incident, I was not able re-board my boat to use the VHF radio to stay in communication with the emergency response vessel. I had to resort to using my cell phone, and I was still not able to maintain communications with the responding vessel. I finally had to call my wife, and she was the person who maintained communication between Boat US and me. Without this her being available, I may have fallen victim to the salvage company. Everything the salvage company told me she confirmed with Boat US. Remember, some areas such as the backside of islands, you may not be able to get cell service, so you need a back up plan.
• Prepare a “Ditch Bag” and have it readily available at all times. My fishing partner grabbed his ditch bag before abandoning the boat, and it proved to be a valuable piece of emergency gear that day. When stocking a ditch bag I like to think in terms of food, water, protection and communication. Protection includes things like a thermal blanket, warm clothes, wool beanies and for communication (since cell phones are limited in service coverage), a good quality handheld VHF radio. Other items that fall under emergency communication equipment are light sticks, small LED flashlight, and strobes.
•.When fishing in tight, ensure hatches, compartments, and other openings are secured and closed. These openings can trap large amounts of water below the deck if you should take on water over the side of the boat, which can affect the safe handling of the boat.
• If you should get hit by a rogue wave or lose power, attempt to keep the bow seaward. If you are going to drift ashore raise your motor to minimize the draft of the boat. This one maneuver minimized the damage to the hull of my boat. With the motor up, the boat only suffered cosmetic damage.
The risks that anglers take when targeting nearshore bass tight to the beach are great, and no fish of a lifetime is ever worth the loss of ones boat or life.
• Once your boat comes to rest on the shore it is of the utmost importance to place and secure your anchor high up on the beach. The purpose of this is to minimize the chance of the boat being pushed and moved along the beach by the surf, currents and wind. It is a very simple practice, but it can save your boat from being smashed onto the rocks.
As the SWBA series gets under way, remember that things happen fast and without warning, so when trouble strikes preparedness before hand is key. As in any emergency situation, staying calm and being proactive will keep you and your crew safe, so don't take unnecessary risks. Put the whole SWBA tournament series into perspective, it is only a fishing tournament and it is not worth taking unnecessary risk that could result in you or your partner's life. 
