Boat Ramp Tramps take up too much space and take too long to launch or retrieve their boats. Others will only be patient for so long. It is at this point when tempers fly. 
Launch with a partner. Once the boat is free of the trailer, have the partner pull the boat away from the ramp, and clear the ramp area so the next guy can launch.
Do your business before you go to the ramp. This means potty stops, unhooking straps, loading/unloading gear, etc. Once you are backing down into the ramp, everything should be ready to go. The only thing left to do is to park the truck/trailer and get in the boat.
Weekends and holidays are the worst! Ramps and accesses will be crowded, and everyone wants to launch and go. Once you are ready to launch, it should not take more than 5 minutes to back up and get the boat ready to release. The same is true when retrieving the boat. If you take more than 10 minutes to use the ramp, you are a Ramp Tramp!
Communication is key. The partner is the safety inspector. Look at the boat and see if the drain plug is in place. Look for any obstacles or things in the way. Look at the bottom of the ramp to make sure there is not a crack or damage. Use hand signals and your voice to talk with the driver. No cussing or yelling please!
Backing up a boat takes practice that is best done in a parking lot away from the boat ramp. Use a closed shopping center with several cones to mimic the back up area. Find what works best for you and repeat it when you hit the ramp.
Take pride in your skills and demonstrate that you are a Ramp Champ!
Montana Grant
