Motor sailing

[ebol5]

When I drift fish in my 73 cuddy outboard I always keep my stern into the wind. needles to say this makes for a much better ride. I have used this technique in up to four foot seas and never had a wave come past the splash well I do this by motor sailing as I call it. I am able to "steer" the boat by turning the outboard to one side or the other.. not too much. The cowling acts as a "sail" and will push the stern in the opposite direction of the direction I turn the motor. Once it is set up and drifting right it will hold for quite a while with just a slight cock to one side. Just wondering, I have never heard anyone else speak of this.

 

[Mac_Attack]

Last year I believe there was a post about drifting and use of sea anchors and such. I usually don't drift but when I do its side ways. Billy Mac ;D

 

[EngstromNK]

HD - What type of current are you drifting in? I am usually drifting accross rips and I don't know if turning the engine would have any effect. Usually end up drifting sideways with the bow ahead.

Keith

 

[Pipe_Dream]

 Usually end up drifting sideways with the bow ahead.

If you ever end up with the bow astern you're in real trouble.
(Just messing with ya)

HD I never tried your method, but I will next time I'm out drifting. I always end up with wind abeam.

 

[Zebra]

If you have the bimini top up and a front windshield on you could catch some serious wind and just steer with the drive down. would this work... thats what i do with my litttle kicker, just steer with the main engine down... Z

 

[Blue_Runner]

That works for me sometimes. I think it all depends how the weight is distributed in your boat too.

 

[racerx]

what about a drift sock? any of you guys ever use one? i thought about it but, worried i will tangle my lines in it. tx