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Is my boat big enough for the pond?


buzbunni

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Well, actually it's not mine, it's the FishinLogician's, but thankfully he let's me climb aboard and wet a line with him.

We have never fished Mill Lacs before, but would like to give it a shot this fall. The boat is a 16ft. Crestliner Nighthawk with a 50 Merc pushing it. I know we don't want to be out in the rough stuff(which can sneak up anytime right?), but we would love to try the night bite before hard water.

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SERIOUSLY! It was THIS big!

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I Fish out of a 17' Alumacraft (non-deep V) w/a 40hp tiller and have never had any major problems (just a little wet at times). Just go easy when it gets rough.

Make sure the boat is in good working condition with all the proper safety equipment. And don't forget a cell phone or radio in a dry bag.

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Yup, plenty of boat. Obviously listen to the forcast, nobody goes to the ruff side on blow days so pick a good day and enjoy. I have been out in a 12' before and 14's are not rare at all on the pond, you will be fine. Check the boat lights twice it never fails if you don't check them they will not work.

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I used to fish ML at night in a 16' Lowe with a 25 hp Johnson. You just have to fish more protected areas when the wind is kicking up. Out of the south and the Isle area is a good option. You get the idea.

Bigeyes is right. Check the lights. Too many guys are out there right now without the proper navigation lights and it makes it really hard to figure out what direction they are moving in and where they are in relation to you if all they have is the anchor light on and a flashlight duct-taped to the bow.

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I fish the pond 20 times this year alone. Fish out of a 165 magnum with 50 honda tiller, never had a problem. As stated in other posts just slow down in the big stuff and you will be fine. I would wear a life jacket and a rain jacket cause you will get WET. Have fun and good luck!

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Thanks for all the advice.

The boat is rigged-up for night fishing quite well. Mucho lights for hunting those kitties on the MN river at night. We'll be sure to check all the systems before we go out.

See you out there; look for the nighthawk with the auto headlights smile.gif.

------------------
SERIOUSLY! It was THIS big!

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