Any pilot will tell you that he would not leave the ground without first filing a flight plan. A wise skipper will also tell you the same.  So what is a float plan.  I decided to enlist the help of someone who deals with this issue on a day to day basis.  A float plan namely is a description of your departure, destination and estimate time of arrival (Home).  Also a detailed description of your boat and contents to aid the Coast Guard with its search and rescue effort in the event to locate you .  Quartermaster First Class John R. Rhoades is the Search and Rescue Controller with the United States Coast Guard and offers these tips for a enjoyable and safe boating season.

First, one of the most important things you can buy for your boat is a marine band radio. This, more than anything else, will assist the Coast Guard in helping you if you have a problem.  These radios can either be ones which run off your boat's battery or be a hand held one which can be carried with you.  With a marine band transceiver, you can contact the Coast Guard and tell them your position.

The second thing you can do is leave a detailed float plan with a loved one or responsible party.  By this, I mean that if you do not arrive home or at your destination on time, or have contacted them, they will contact the Coast Guard and report you overdue.  Your float plan should include the following:

1. Place (boat ramp/pier) you are departing from.

2. Time you are departing.

3. Destination (where you are going or fishing).

4. Time you will be returning.

5. A description of your boat.

a. Hull color. b. Trim color.

c. Any distinctive markings.

d. Name of your boat.

e. Manufacture of your boat.

f. Length of the boat.

g. Official Number (TX or Documentation number).

6. A description of your tow vehicle.

a. Make and model of vehicle.

b. License plate number.

7. Survival Gear on Board

a. How many life jackets.

b. Flares

c. Radio/Cellular phone (include number).

d. Food and water.

8. Check latest weather report.