#aussieboaters

How shared mornings on the water turn casual mates into lifelong friends

There’s something magical about the water. Maybe it’s the quiet mornings, maybe it’s the wind in your hair — but somehow, time spent boating or fishing brings people closer. Over the years, I’ve made some of my favourite friendships out there, thermos of lukewarm coffee in hand, salt in my hair, and stories piling up like driftwood.

Shared Moments, Real Connections

I still remember inviting a new friend out on a freshly purchased fishing boat for sale. We barely knew each other, but after laughing at our casts and navigating light chop together, it felt like we’d known each other forever. That’s the magic — teamwork, jokes, and shared experiences.

Teamwork & Laughter

Whether adjusting lines, swapping tips at the marine shop, or debating which lure is truly “lucky,” the water makes conversation effortless. And yes, sometimes the fish listen better than my friends.

Nature Calms, Friendships Grow

Gliding along a quiet river or skimming over gentle swell in a friend’s boat accessories-laden vessel, the calmness of the water makes opening up natural. Even a small mistake in a used boat becomes a story we’ll be laughing about for years.

How I’ve Built Friendships on the Water

Join a Club: Boating or fishing clubs are social gold.

Events & Trips: Regattas, fishing comps, or group paddles.

Lessons: Sailing or safety courses build skills and friends.

Volunteer: Clean-ups or club events connect you with locals.

Off-Water Socials: BBQs, breakfasts, or casual hangouts turn water buddies into mates.

Friendships That Last

Essential tips, gear, and yarns from the water—so Aussie boaties and anglers stay safe when the unexpected hits.

Nothing beats a sunrise on the water—diesel in the air, mates laughing, and your fishing kit ready to go. Whether it’s a weekend with the family or chasing big fish offshore, being on the water is pure joy. But mate, things can go pear-shaped fast. Storms roll in, engines conk out, or someone forgets the sunscreen. Being prepared isn’t boring—it’s the difference between a yarn worth telling and one you’ll regret.

Prep Like a Pro

Plan ahead. Check the weather, tides, and the boat—engine, steering, bilge, battery, all of it. Don’t just hope your fuel supply is enough; make sure the boat fuel tanks are secure and topped up. Everyone onboard should know where the safety gear lives and how to use it.

Pack essentials: water, first aid, tools, and backup systems. I’ve been on a trip where a dodgy hose clamp nearly sank us—prep would’ve saved the day.

Gear That Actually Matters

Here’s the kit that separates legends from mugs:

Lifejackets: One per person.

Marine radio: For calling help, weather updates, and talking to other boaties.

Visual distress signals: A dramatic boat flare can save your arse.

EPIRB/PLB: Sends your location to rescue services if you’re far offshore.

Fire extinguisher + bilge pump: For engine fires or water ingress.

Anchor & line: Stop drifting when the engine dies or the tide turns nasty.

Navigation backup: Torch, compass, charts, whistle, horn—you get it.

First aid, tools, spares: For scrapes, burns, or busted gear.

Keep safety gear separate from fishing equipment like a bait board or live bait tank. Don’t dig through slimy bait to grab a flare—it’s asking for trouble.

On-Trip Smarts

Check everything before launch: engine, steering, bilge, battery. Ventilate the engine bay, inspect lines, and make sure all signals work. File a float plan with someone on land—they’ll thank you if you disappear.

While on the water, monitor fuel, watch the weather, and keep safety gear accessible. Don’t let rods, tackle, or boxes block exits.

When Stuff Hits the Fan

Engines die, bilges fill, people go overboard. Stay with the boat—it’s easier to spot. Fire up the EPIRB if out of range, and never forget visual distress signals.

Bail water, pump bilges, fight fires, and keep the crew calm. Tend to injuries, keep everyone warm, and ration water. Don’t panic over minor leaks—you’ll make things worse.

Fishing Gear vs Safety

Fishing gear is fun, but safety comes first. Tackle, rods, and setups like a bait board must never block lifejackets or signals. Keep fuel and flares away from wet bait and smelly tackle. Organisation matters.

After years of towing my boat all over the place — from glassy river mornings to corrugated backroads that make your teeth chatter — I’ve learned this: your trailer matters just as much as your boat.

That’s why I love Move Boat Trailers. They’re honestly built for the kind of conditions Aussies actually deal with. Salt, sun, storms, gravel roads — all the fun stuff.