1. Don't attract attention to yourself.
As Deputy James Clynes says, "Basically, if you don't attract attention to yourself, you're going to be OK." The wrong kind of attention includes — but is not limited to — fighting, filming a freelance Girls Gone Wild episode and taunting police officers on land.
2. Register your boat.
Florida law mandates that every boat, except for non-motorized vessels and those used exclusively on lakes and ponds, be registered with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Visit hsmv.state.fl.us for details. Keep your title handy, too.
3. If you're fishing, carry your fishing license.
And if you don't know the size and number of fish you're allowed to catch, learn. For more info, check out myfwc.com.
4. Always carry your safety equipment.
Lifejackets? Check. Approved boating fire extinguisher? Check. Whistle or horn? Check.
5. Follow the water signs.
In addition to various speed zones ranging from 25 to 35 mph, many Tampa Bay waterways have "Idle No Wake" and "Slow Speed" zones.
"The biggest thing that we always see is people violating the no speed zone," says Clynes. "That'll get you pulled over the fastest."
6. Don't drink and boat.
Technically, boaters can drink while they operate a boat. But they can't be intoxicated. The best advice is not to risk it.
7. Don't "Wake Jump."
It might be thrilling, but attempting to jump another vessel's waves is risky business. And against the law.
This article appears in May 7-13, 2008.