Fishing Boats - Rowing

• Face the rear of the Fishing Boat then sit at the middle bench. The front part has the pointed end, so your position must be facing the other end. In case your Fishing Boat is a johnboat, both sides are identical. Its front end is the one that curves up.



• Once seated, you will find an oarlock on each side. This is a small vertical metal tube fastened below the edge of the Fishing Boat. This is where you will mount your oars. Get an oar and look for the device shaped like a Y in the middle of the oar. Place the bottom part of the Y in the oarlock. Get the other oar and do the same to your other side.



• Since you are not facing the direction towards your destination, you must decide on what landmark to use that can guide you while rowing. This landmark must be lined up directly to your destination. Landmarks can either be a dock, tree, another boat, or a house. With your arms stretched out, hold the oars firmly. At this time, the oar blades or the paddles are behind you and out of the water.



• Sweep the oars through the water by bringing your hands towards you. Your Fishing Boat should have moved forward, towards your destination. Repeat this stroke again and again, and at the same time, keep an eye on the landmark you have chosen. You can be sure that you will be able to reach your destination by rowing straight away from the landmark.



• When you reach your destination, do not leave your oars in the water. They can go off the oarlocks and drift away, leaving you with nothing to use on your way back. Secure the oars by putting them in parallel position to the Fishing Boat. This can be done by raising the oar blades out of the water and putting them at the outer edges of the Fishing Boat.