[just add water]

Just wanted to tap into your knowledge. After years of fishing off the Pensacola Pier, I finallybought a boat. Its a 23' (used) proline with a Evinrude 200hp oceanpro, and will be trailering it down 4 to 5 times a year. I was just wandering if this is enough boat to go out in the ocean maybe 5 to 10 miles or so.I would not be going out on a rough day, no more than 2 to 3 foot waves. In the beginning I would stay pretty close to shore til I built up my confidence. The boat came with a Garmin gps system, but no ship to shore radio. I can't believe how much ocean fishingcan get into your blood, all you guys are so lucky to live down there. Thanks for any info. that youan give me and this is a great forum!!

 

[38bat]

Yes, but don't go without a VHF. Also make sure you have all the safety stuff and know how to use your GPS and your compass. JOE

 

[Last Chance]

I second getting a VHF before you go offshore.You should have no problems with that boat though,and trust me them 5-10 miles get farther and farther every trip.

 

[seminolewind]

That is plenty of boat to take offshore we run 20-30 miles in a 19 foot Cape Horn and a buddy of mine runs 50-60 miles in a 21 foot Cape Horn. Just get used to the boat and venture a little farther each time you go out till you feel comfortable. I dont how many gallons of fuel the boat holds but use the 1/3 rule a 1/3 out a 1/3 return and 1/3 reserve you should be fine. I would defintley get a VHF radio and all required coast guard equipment.

 

[drlile]

Your boat should be fine, keep an eye on your weather window. Andabsolutely, get a membership to SEATOW!

 

[H2OMARK]

I have a Proline 231 W/A with a 225 Merc that I take out quite often with no problems what so ever(except for the occassional rock jetty which will screw your day up pretty good). :doh:dohIt is not the driest or smoothest rideout therebut it is well built and will get you there and back.

Mark

 

[Fuhrer48]

Seatow and Radio brotha and you are set!

 

[skipperspride Lures]

As mentioned dont leave without a VHF raymarine has a good one with a distress button that gives info on your boat and who you are and your GPS location to Coast Guard when pushed and not that expensive and Eprib would be a good idea also you cant be too safe. But that is plenty of boat I first fished a 21 and went 68 miles offshore to the stream here in NC just watch the weather forcast and they do get it wrong it is only to get an idea if wind picks up leave then dont wait for that next fish cause it can get ugly very fast just use your head and you will be fine in that 23 I hear Proline is a very good boat.

 

[Lucky Dawg]

I go 20-30 miles in my 19' Polar all the time.

 

[GULFFISHER1]

I have a 21' Proline sport with a 150 YAmaha. I go to the edge often. Just dont get in a hurry and make sure you have all of your electronics and safety gear aregood and functioning properly and never leave the pass without a VHF. Communication is the key, on any given weekend there are 5 to 10 boats not to mention all the charter boats that pass.

Just check the forecast and have a ball.....

 

[Magic236]

You are off to a good start. Safety first, fun second. Build up your experience and get better with weather than NOAA. Also, keep asking the Forum questions as these guys will help as you expand your fishing horizons.

 

[just add water]

Thanks for all the info. Will post again after our first trip down.