A $400 investment ....

[jimbob1603]

I've been extensivly using a newly acquired range finder this spring, as I travel around the lake. Its a Nikon with one-half yard resolution.

It worked wonders this weekend when the MP pulled me over in Alton Bay for allegedly not observing the 600' NWZ. After exchanging the usual courtesies, I showed 'The Man' how the range finder worked. It pretty much floored him and he started explaining that pulling me over was a judgement call, and he was just doing his job.

I think a lot of people could benefit from having a range finder on board; not that the scofflaws give a damn. Although it will probably never pay for itself, it is nice to be assured of the 150' and 600' required clearances.

[Orion]

You can also use your GPS....just put the cursor on the nearest shoreline and it should read out range and bearing to the cursor.

[Mee-n-Mac]

I've seen a cheaper laser rangefinder at WalMart. Not sure how well it would work on the water though, it's hard to keep stable enough to stay on target at any distance when rolling about. I'd almost pick one up just for giggles, if I thought "Mee" wouldn't shoot me for wasting the $$. Then again next time Capt B goes by 92.86' from our dock I'd be able to say with authority that it was under 100' ;)

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=1732115
(I think I've seen the "pro" version for ~ $180 in the Gilford store)

On a related note I saw in the Alton Baysider that the NHMP was going to put buoys out 150' from all public launch ramps to better educate the public as to how far 150' is. I've yet to check for them (buoys).

[LIforrelaxin]

A marker 150' from shore would be a good thing if it happens....I didn't notice one when I launched this weekend...finally the boat in the water and at the dock.....