Launching an Airboat in Citrus County

Not every public ramp suits an airboat, and the ones that do get busy.

Independent guide, not a club, dealer, outfitter or agency, and not affiliated with any organisation that previously used this domain. Rules on the water change — confirm anything legal with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission before you run.

What makes a ramp workable

Airboat trailers are wide and the boats do not manoeuvre in the water the way a prop boat does. You want width, a reasonable slope, room to rig, and enough turning space for a long tow vehicle. Some county and state ramps post restrictions on airboat use or on hours; check before you tow.

Trailer

Match the trailer to the hull — bunks positioned for the actual bottom, not generic. Check bearings before every long tow; Florida ramps and salt are hard on them. Carry a spare, a jack that works on soft ground, and the tools to use both.

Etiquette

• Rig in the car park, not on the ramp.
• Do not start and sit revving beside other people.
• Load promptly and finish tying down clear of the ramp.
• Take your rubbish and anyone else's monofilament with you.

Parking

Popular ramps fill early at weekends and in winter. Arrive early or go mid-week. Blocking access to a ramp is the fastest route to a restriction that affects everyone.

Before you leave the ramp

Check flotation devices are aboard and sized for everyone, the flag is up, lights work if you might be out at dusk, and someone ashore knows your plan.