Stopped by the Coast Guard today

[Iowawalleye]

thx

[topwater]

Is there anything else that needs to be "out and ready at all times" other than the throwable mentioned below?

[Lucky Duck]

That is all that the crew member told me he wants to have out at all times.

[BillyW]

It is like a highway vehicle safety inspection stop that was/is carried out by the state only on the water instead under federal guidelines, Ohio division of water craft also has that same authority under state guidelines.

I was coming into Port Clinton was in the river before the drawbridge where a USCG gave us a visual check without stopping us. Best way to avoid a USCG check is to have your PFDs on as it is a visual sign that you are at least concerned about your personal safety. It's like seeing a bigger fish to fry when they see a boat where no one has a PDF on .

[Ted33]

I just bought a 22' boat and have been diligently researching all the regulations and required equipment. Visit the OH DNR website for all the regulations and required equipment, or click this link...
https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/wcm/connect/...634e90-nobhRJz

[Willy]

My understanding is that the Coast Guard boarding right is left over from smuggling, bootlegging, and pirate days. Legislators have never changed the laws.

[PatSea]

I'm not an attorney, but U.S. Courts over the last 200 years have consistently upheld the right of the Coast Guard to board and inspect vessels, probable cause or not.