Name:   Broke Point - Subject:   Boat Lighting Law's Date:   2/8/2016 7:08:11 PM

The post from Capt Brooks was excellent.  After reading here is how I feel about operating my Harris at night.

A.  I probably will not use the side blue lights on my Harris while cruising to or from a place at night.

B.  I probably will use my rear underwater lights.  Reason, I don't have a strobe but I don't want some idiot running over me like has happened with horrible results on Lake Martin and other lakes.  I don't see a problem with strobes either.  They are on most all airplanes and I don't think any pilots have crashed due to disorientation, seizures or other alleged blinding from a strobe.  I'd rather be seen as best as possible and a proper strobe is a good idea if you operate much at night.  Some anchor lights are hard to distinguish between a stationary light on the shore and a boat that is just floating in the dark.

C.  I agree dock lights are a bad thing on the lake if they are used while operating, cruising, etc., unless approaching a dock or trying to land the boat and needing light.  They have been on boats for years and mostly are used properly, except for some pontoon owners who think they are like a car headlight!  

D.  I'm really more concerned with the number of boats I see running after sunset without any lights, including some waverunners/jetskis. They need the ticket more than anyone.  And, I agree, stay off the lake at night unless you are going from or to someone's home or returning from dinner at any of the fun places on our great Lake Martin.

Great post and thanks for bringing this discussion to Light!  Can't wait to see who says what and continues the debate.