I know, life simply does not ever get easier. Just when you thought there could not be any more paperwork required to spend a day on the water, here comes yet another regulation. This one may not affect very many people, but it is something to be aware of. A Canadian boat operator’s permit is now required for anyone who spends more than 45 consecutive days on the water in Canada, or if you operate a pleasure craft that is licensed or registered in Canada (including rented or chartered boats).
Like I said, this will not affect many people, however any of you who have a registered boat at the Northern Light portage with a 38E number on it will have to get this certificate. Even if you are operating a boat with a 38E number you will have to have this certificate.
Thefollowing link is recommended for information: www. tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/ debs-obs-menu-1362.htm I understand the need for safety, especially if you are for hire. That is why I believe in mandatory Coast Guard Captains Licenses, but who is designed to protect the customer that hires you. This new Canadian regulation is for the basic boat operator, and from what I can tell it is not very easy to pass. This seems pretty extreme and unnecessary to me. For a country that wants to promote tourism they sure know how to shoot themselves in the foot. I used to guide almost entirely in Canada, and now I have very few customers who are willing to jump through all of the hoops any more. Or they seem to always have someone in the group with an unfavorable record which does not allow them a RABCP.
I know the Captains License issue is not a popular one, but you cannot tell me one good reason it should not be mandated. I have seen a lot of idiots on the water, and the common tourist deserves to know that he can trust his guide. One stupid mistake could ruin a lot of business for everyone. Sure it could be argued that a license does not mean you will not put a person in harm’s way, but it at least defines your qualifications. Contractors, real estate agents, pilots and countless other professions are required a merit of qualification, so what is the big deal?
I was also told by a fisherman this weekend who was checked on the Canadian side of Saganaga that you are now required to carry a 50-foot floating rope with a buoy attached at one end. This is a safety measure that coincides with a noise making device, two paddles, an orange or red throwable cushion, and a bailer. Thought you would rather hear it from me than the OPP!
Cory Christianson, a 2000
graduate of the University of
Iowa, has worked as a fishing
guide on the Gunflint Trail
for nine years. If you have
any fishing reports or stories
to share, send an email to:
christiansoncory@hotmail.com
or call 218-388-0315
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