From experience and reading on here I've learned how to deal with wakes or waves that you drive into. However, this weekend was my first tournament on a river and everyone was running the same direction. Only being able to go a max of 58 couldn't quite run with the guys who had 21's going 70+. So my question is how should you handle the wakes these guys send when the come from behind you. Also keep in mind that it was a river so there is only so much room to move.

Thanks,

bassdocktor

Geez, tough one.  I would say either deal with it, hang back or sabotage the other guys,lol.  If there is no where to turn out or if it's too dangerous with boats passing you at 70, I would hug the outside of the pack and keep an eye over your shoulder.  By running the outside, you can always look and turn in-to the wake, if you run inside and turn out, you may not have room.  Always aim your boat where there is more open water in a questionable instance.

Careful though, sounds like a dangerous way to start the day,  It may just be wiser to let them run ahead of you.

Throw out some banana peels.  It always works in the cartoons. ;D

LBH made a good point ....... stay where you can always give yourself a safe out.  Sounds like you just might have to deal with ......... but the monkley is saying ....."Need bigger boat!!!!!"

Throw out some banana peels.

Translation= Monkey Chum!

Careful,....If you chum for monkey, you may come up with one of those Yamaha HPDI 300's

If I'm not mistaken, you have to maintain course and speed per the Coast guard since you're being passed (I'm not 100% on that though).  If you're uncomfortable with handling wakes coming at you sideways you need to slow down by trimming down.  Besides, bass boats flying past you at 70mph aren't going to throw much of a wake anyway.  If your boat is decent handling at all you shouldn't have any problem.