HeadedToTexas
Guru
I can appreciate that more light is better than less when anchoring in traffic prone areas, but does that not inundate the boat with bugs and make it uninhabitable without screens?
I assume this is more of an issue on inland rivers and lakes than in bays, coves and harbors on the ocean?? The only time we've had an issue with bugs is if we're anchored too close to shore.
Any concerns over that required lone anchor light providing enough defensive visibility?
I bought these to help out for at least till after the drunks have gone in all likelihood. Put them on the 4 corners of the cabin top shining on rails and other structures. $20 for four and they stay put in pretty good seas without mounting on anything, so easily moved. They last till after midnight and later if fully charged...and when these batteries go, better ones should last all night.
What do you consider "too close" to shore?
I've been in the middle of some pretty large sounds (not anchored, but underway) and had plenty of bugs. Green flies are the worst. They bite and the bites itch for a week or more.
I used to do battle with the green flies on the East Coast. Used screens and repellant the flies always won so I moved to the PNW and now no real insect problem just lots of winter rain. Don't get me wrong I am not encouraging all the fly bitten East Coast boaters to move here I like relatively empty anchorages and they are getting harder to find.
Put vinegar on the bites to reduce the itch.
Makes complete sense. Again, having never anchored out overnight, I am contemplating only the thoughts of others. Perhaps my question should be is it practical to always anchor well out of traffic's way?