Stuck in the weeds at the dock!

[danstanford]

They sent me down a narrow fairway and when I realized how thick the weeds were I was already mostly turned in and committed. I had to run her more than half throttle just to get into the slip and now have no idea if I can get out in the morning. I have a shoal keel with those wings sticking out the sides which will make exit even harder than entrance. Any secrets for dis Entanglement short of a tug?
Dan

 

[Johnb]

Putting the motor in reverse from time to time can help with clearing the propeller. If it turns into a ball of weeds you are not going anywhere.

 

[capta]

Can you take out a line or two to a tree or an anchor and winch yourself out into clearer water before you use your engine. I'd be very hesitant to use the engine if there's any possibility of doing damage to prop, strut and/or shaft. Those are expensive repairs.

 

[Joe]

How about sailing out?

 

[py26129]

I'd say, make sure your prop is as clear as possible and get some people to help you push the boat off the dock and back into the fairway.

You may have to stop a few times to clear the prop, bu tthe good news is, with all the weeds you won't need to worry about the boat drifting off into the sunset.

Cheers

Matt

 

[Benny17441]

For the next time practice the technique of turning the boat on its axis. Utilizing rudder and prop walk the boat can be turned on its length. Now to get out utilize a spring lines and some dockside assistance. Do not worry about steering the boat, that is what the lines are for. Utilize lines to both sides of the fairway.

 

[danstanford]

Thanks Folks. I tossed a small fender on some 3/8 line across the fairway to an opposite dock and pulled myself backwards out of the slip. Then I roared and backed my way up the row of boats and out. You would not believe the bundle of weeds that came off the rudder when I spun around in reverse after exit. Now however I have a knocking sound when under power. Dan

 

[Kestle]

Do you have a folding prop?

Thanks Folks. I tossed a small fender on some 3/8 line across the fairway to an opposite dock and pulled myself backwards out of the slip. Then I roared and backed my way up the row of boats and out. You would not believe the bundle of weeds that came off the rudder when I spun around in reverse after exit. Now however I have a knocking sound when under power. Dan

 

[seadaddler]

prop

Maybe have too much weeds around shaft and prop making it out of balance,need to make sure it's all clear for sure
Nick

 

[danstanford]

Finally stopped after I had to do a lot of backing in a big marina. Now all is well. I have a folding prop on my wish list but now am rethinking as this is twice now I have been into weeds so bad that both way and steerage have been severely limited. I am thinking that a folder would have made it worse? Thanks for the feedback everybody!