Information for Rhode Island Bassers/Bass Boaters....

Hey all..

Went to the Providence Boat Show this past weekend. A big topic among all the boat sales people and potential buyers (and from what I understand, some of our friends on this forum!!) was the 9.9 HP and up controversy. For those who don't live and/or fish in RI here it is in a nutshell. There is a question as to wether you can launch a boat (any boat) with a motor larger than 9.9. HP from a State ramp. I ran into a friend of mine with the DEM (I still have some connections!!) Here's what she said:

Certain ramps were built with funds from a Federal grant years ago. (She said the name, I don't remember it.) Those ramps are no launch, use, etc. of a  9.9 HP or over motor. Other State ramps are different because there was no grant money involved. She went on to say that the "9.9 Rule" was actually started by fisherman who got very upset at other boaters (water skiers, pleasure craft, etc.) zooming by them with there huge HP motors. (Probably 50 HP at that time.)

After the advent of bass boats, which came with bigger HP motors, the original rule started to work AGAINST the fisherman. Bottom line: depending on what State ramp you are using, the rules are different. This information can be found by checking the D.E.M. Rules and Regulations, 32-2-4 rule, #6 which lists the ponds/lakes and what can be launched from what ramp. Also, a boat with ANY size motor can be used on any pond/lake if launched from private property. This BENEFITS the pleasure boaters on RI ponds and lakes who own waterfront property and consider the water THEIR property. We're just visitors!!! But your license fees and taxes go to keeping up those ponds/lakes etc. so they belong, obviously to us all.

P.S. The DEM officers themselves have been trying to get the BRASS to change these rules for 15 years..no go! They don't see why a water skier or pleasure boater should have more rights than fisherman who pay license fees!!. Maybe it's time for us to get involved. Sorry for the long post. She will be mailing me more information which I'll post if people are interested. If not, I'll just shut up.

PSS Still no LEGAL fishing in "The Reservoir". Sorry, I tried!!  

Alan  (bassnajr)