Launch and Ramp Courtesy

Mariners in North Carolina can launch a boat in over 185 locations that are open to the public. The North Carolina Wildlife Commission lists these locations on their website at http://www.ncwaterways.com under "Waterways." However, in order to maintain a system with access for all, there are some necessary regulations.

The N.C. Wildlife commission website allows you to "click on" a map showing ramp locations to see a list of all boat ramps in the area. Each ramp listing includes driving directions. 

To promote the flow of traffic through the ramp, leaving a vehicle, trailer, boat or other obstruction where it will impede the use of the ramp by others is prohibited. Keep in mind that in good weather on the weekends, these ramps see a lot of activity.

There are designated parking areas at all ramps. Parking a vehicle, trailer or boat anywhere on the area other than the designated parking zone is prohibited. There are sound reasons for this requirement. Vehicles towing trailers need room to turn around, back up, etc. If parking is by some random system, boaters will not have room to use the ramp.

For the safety of pedestrians and boaters, the ramp areas cannot be used for other activities. Those activities include swimming, camping, operating concessions, and any use other than the launching and recovery of boats.

In some cases, facilities for a particular recreational use other than boat launching may be provided in the vicinity of a ramp. In such cases, those areas are designated and safely situated so as not to interfere with boat launching and recovery.

Boat trailers cannot be stored at NC Wildlife Commission ramps. The parking area is intended for trailers that are attached to vehicles while their owners are boating. That means that you can't launch your boat, move it to a marina for a week, and store your trailer at the ramp parking area in the meantime.

For the safety of those involved in launching or recovering a boat at a public ramp, vessels within 50 yards of the ramp must maintain "No Wake" speed. All mariners are responsible for their wakes. A wake can cause damage, injury, and even death. Common courtesy is a must in these busy areas.

Speaking of common courtesy, littering anywhere on the grounds of a ramp area is also prohibited. Place all trash in receptacles provided. Unfortunately, we still have to mention this for the benefit of some people.

As for more dangerous issues, it is unlawful to possess loaded firearms on the access area to a boat ramp. It is also a crime to operate a vehicle on any boat access area in a manner so as to endanger life or property. 

If you intend to conduct any special activities, such as a fishing tournament weigh-in or a kayak organization event, you must first obtain a letter of authorization from the Division of Engineering Services by calling 919 715-3155.

Just like the Navigation Rules, the regulations at North Carolina Wildlife Commission boat launching ramps are mostly common sense and common courtesy. If we adhere to the regulations we can all enjoy the waterways of North Carolina. And after all, why wouldn't we?

Until next time, I wish you clear skies, fair winds, and calm seas!