I’ve been approached several times recently by frustrated captains who want me to write about their valid complaints concerning radar use.

The Prevalence of Radar on Boats

It seems that everyone who owns a boat these days has a radar—from cruisers and bay boats to motor yachts and mega sportfish boats. Many of the bigger boats even have two radars. While radar is a valuable tool for safety and fishing, it’s troubling that many boaters turn it on as soon as they leave the dock and leave it running 24/7.

Radar’s Importance and Misuse

We have a powerful 25W radar on our boat, capable of finding birds 10 miles away, which is vital for locating bait and fishing. It’s also useful for navigating at night, picking up the smallest floaters and buoys. However, the problem arises when boats run their radars in broad daylight, whether coming in and out of the harbor or sitting at the fuel dock. These high-powered beams are unnecessary during the day and can be harmful, akin to using a spotlight at high noon.

Radar Issues Around Oil Rigs

In the northern Gulf, around the oil rigs, radar use is particularly problematic. These rigs attract a lot of fish, and the fishing around them is great. Boats troll and live bait around these rigs, often with their radars running, which can be overwhelming and unnecessary. Be courteous and pause your radar use when fishing next to other boats please.

Addressing the Problem

While weekend warriors might not know better and usually comply when asked to shut down their radar, many so-called pros continue to run their radars in broad daylight, at the dock, or even at weigh scales. They should know better.

A Call to Action Boating Radar Safety

So, please, stop running your radar when it’s not needed. Shut it down or put it on standby when around other boats, at the dock, or near people. Use it wisely and consider those around you. Keep your radar beams to yourself.