Does anyone pull away from the launch ramp after loading their boat anymore?
Everytime I go out, I have to wait for folks to secure their boat or jet ski BEFORE they'll move off of the ramp.

Once the bow-hook is attached I pull up off the ramp and out of the way to finish securing my boat. I have seen many who prep for launch after occupying the ramp and rig for transport on the ramp. I remember to be patient and if they look like they could use a hand I'll offer.

and headlights should be turned to "parking". If you have a green-horn in the back seat, please run down the rules on the launch, between that last "kick the tires" and arrival at the launch. Everyone wants to get on and off the water in the safest, most expeditous manner.

If your waiting on someone who is struggling at the launch, just remember. At one point in your life, you had never backed a boat down either.

I think most fishermen are used to prepping for launch in the parking lot before you get in line, and securing everything after you get off the ramp. The pleasure boaters, pontoon boats, and fleas seem to think if they wait their turn, they can take as much time as they like on the ramp doing everything from putting the plug in to getting the dog on board.

Thx for the replies guys, I always pull out of the way and secure up, just a bit frustrating having to wait on others to do this on the ramp.

PS - Jet Skiers seem to be the worst...

and if its really cold and rainy, I just forget the bowhook, and pull the trailer our from underneath the boat halfway up the ramp.... :p :p

over-achiever!!! DOnt get ahead of yourself because there are others waiting on you. Take care of your business, then move on. a couple extra minutes wont hurt anyone.

I sometimes get frustrated at the bigger ramp. Prefer to actually use some of the smaller, little more difficult ramps.

Most fishermen I have seen getting things ready while out of the way before unloading. I've seen some buddies, working as a team, drive in, unstrap, and back down, but they do it very quickly. Typically they drive up with the boat reay to go in terms of equipment loaded.

Wish more folks would think about the lights thing at night.

I bought a "Boat Buddy" and replaced my front bow stop with it. When you set it right, the pin is supposed to fire when you run up onto the bow stop. Since I don't trust it, I just run up to the bow stop, leave the boat in gear and reach over the bow and fire the pin manually. Then all I have to do is take the boat out of gear and have whoever is driving, just go up the ramp. I never have to worry about coming off the trailer.

Ramp Etiquette:
Don't expect any and you will not be so disappointed.

It would help if some of the marinas and parks would post some rules of etiquette. Espicially at places where there is a fee to launch a handout or sign posting the rules. At least a few people might read it.

Guys, just my .02 but I've found over the years, we all get as good as we give. Yeah, there is always going to be the occasional AH or some guy's wife backing in the party barge sideways just as you've pulled up ready to go.

When I'm hovering off the ramp waiting my turn, I'm thinking how lucky I am to be out here this day. If there is a real DA there, I'll just admire his lady in her bikini. If nothing but butt cracks hovered over boat winches, That's when I'll check the sky.

Just saying it's all attitude and perception. It is what you make it.

DISCLAIMER:
No illegal drugs were used during the typing to this post.
However a couple of cold beers may (or may not) have.

I ALWAYS pull off to the side and prep the boat for launch, and when loading just hook the bow strap and drive up out of the way and wipe down/tie down. But with my 2001 s-10, how do I turn the lights off?

My biggest gripe is people who dont turn their lights off at night. I've asked/told several people to turn their GD lights off and they just act like thats the dumbest thing they have ever heard. Even had 1 guy tell me he didnt know how...well buddy, if you dont know how to turn your lights off then you dont need to be driving the truck in the first place!!!!!!

I also get very tired of people who wont turn there lights off.Some people with day time running lamps don't know that if you just push your emegency brake peddle in one click then your lights will turn off.