Although I Although I don't admit it to many people, I've had my share of blunders at the boat ramp.

Most of us have. Even if you have loaded and unloaded your boat a million times, things happen. I'm not sure why, maybe it's because of all the technology these days - getting away from it all seems to be getting harder - people tend to get really cranky at the boat ramp.

Now that the boating season is finally here, it's a good time to review a few tips and common courtesies to go with launching or loading your boat. Most people know the time to get ready for putting your boat in the water starts way before you get to the ramp. There's more to it than just charging up the batteries. You should first make sure your motor starts before dropping the boat in the water.

From time to time, there will be situations when the motor won't turn over, but there are few things that get others in line behind you more excited than waiting, watching someone turning over - and over and over - their motor. A set of muffs and a garden hose in the driveway will do the trick. It's also a good idea to pump up the primer bulb on your fuel line while you are taking the tie-down straps off before backing down. It's also a good time to check and secure the plugs in the livewell and back of the boat to make sure you won't be taking on any water.

Been there, done that.

While you're at the top of the ramp, before backing down, is also the time to move coolers, rods and reels, tackle boxes and the like into your boat. You should also make sure there are enough life vests to go around.

If your trailer lights aren't waterproofs, it's a good idea to pull the plug on the connection between the trailer and the vehicle; it will save you a few fuses and maybe keep you from getting pulled over on the way home. Make sure your outboard is up to avoid scraping the ramp on the back-down - I like to turn the motor over a little beforehand to make sure it will fire once the boat is in the water. Make sure have one, or better yet, two ropes tied to the boat to help guide the boat and secure it to the dock.

You should also check out the ramp and dock situation beforehand so you know if you can tie down to a courtesy ramp or if you will need to pull the boat to shore while parking the vehicle.

If you're new to boating, backing down a trailer can be a challenge, as can be loading it and pulling it out, especially on a slick ramp surface. The best thing to do is practice in an empty parking lot until you feel comfortable. Every ramp and parking area is configured differently, so practice makes perfect. And, a little common courtesy goes a long way at the ramp or in the parking area.

There are plenty of times I am out fishing by myself and someone has offered to lend a hand while I load or unload. And I have offered my help to others as well. If it speeds up the process and helps you and others get on and off the water easier, go for it - offer a helping hand. In situations where you get blown off the water because of the weather and boats are stacked up waiting to load, it helps everyone.

Be courteous, be prepared and above all, be safe.

(Reach reporter Brian Gehring at 250-8254 or brian.gehring@;bismarcktribune.com.)