1st Surf Ride - Surf Slam 2014?

J

j'ray

Location
Seattle, Wa
Hello,

So I've been riding my old 1991 SJ for several years and have had the itch to try surf. Surf Slam 2014 sounds like it could be a great time to try it out, but I am a little apprehensive.

Could someone give me the run down on the applicable laws I will need to be aware of? I'm from Washington State, where a boater education card is required for the youngins (under 50 or something). I saw a similar law is in effect in Oregon, will that be an issue? is the WA card acceptable?

I feel plenty capable in my skills as a rider and my old SJ rips pretty well for what it is. I just want to make sure my actions are not irresponsible and my ski is prepared.

Ski Info - 1991 SJ
701 61x motor
factory pipe w/ 650 chamber
1 bilge pump with switch on the bars
Flow control valve
stock electronics
AC Handlepole
Ride plate / intake grate
Footholds with extra padding

I think I'm going to install a 2nd bilge, my ski likes to drink water. I also have no flush kit installed yet. I plan on T'ing a hose fitting in between the pipe stinger and manifold. My SJ has no pisser (other than the bypass that is T'd off 1 going to pipe stinger and it is a straight fitting).

I'm aware I need a whistle, a lanyard (currently zip tied), fire extinguisher, PFD, registration, etc.

Questions:

1) Is the rec ride area at surf slam an ok place to try surf out for the first time?

2) What about the boater ed card? Do I need one?

3) Are cars/trucks allowed to launch skis into the water? I do not have a cart for launching, only a truck with 4x4 and 3 guys capable of lifting.

4) Where do you all flush your skis? My ski is a saltwater virgin, and I want to flush it ASAP after riding in the salt. Where do you do that? I'll probably end up getting a motel room somewhere.

Help a newbie out with some tips. Thank you.
 
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whitca

whitca

Location
Tri-Cities, WA
Questions:

1) Is the rec ride area at surf slam an ok place to try surf out for the first time? It's busy...better time than never just keep your head on a swivel. There's plenty of beach south of the competition zone to ride before you get into a spot with some boilers...if you're going that far do not do so alone. If it's crowded just head south and you'll get out of the crowd (plus there's always better surf there anyway).

2) What about the boater ed card? Do I need one? I've never been checked for safety equipment or a boaters card in the 5 years I've been riding Tierra and attending SurfSlam. Your call on how prepared you want to be but I would definately recommend having the basic safety gear and paperwork for your boat.

3) Are cars/trucks allowed to launch skis into the water? I do not have a cart for launching, only a truck with 4x4 and 3 guys capable of lifting. Yes you can drive on the beach. Most people will let you borrow their cart if you ask...myself included. If you find me your welcome to use my cart so long as you return it.

4) Where do you all flush your skis? My ski is a saltwater virgin, and I want to flush it ASAP after riding in the salt. Where do you do that? I'll probably end up getting a motel room somewhere. This will depend on where you're staying and if there's a hose available as well as whether or not there are any rules against it. We've had rental house owners and neighbors not to happy with people firing up skis to flush. There is a local dory boat fleet that flushes and starts their fishing boats at Webb campground that may be a good spot, you can always pull in there and ask the camp host.

Make sure your ski is dialed and you have tow loops and a tow rope if it's your first trip. Do a search for mandatory surf trip items to pack...there's a few threads started about it. Also check out the surf trip boat prep threads so you can enjoy learning to ride surf rather than spend all weekend wrenching.
 
wanderer1

wanderer1

Location
Cruising Around
^^^Good advice. Prep your ski well so it doesn't take on water. My first trip to Pismo (a long time ago) on a 550sx didn't ride more than 20 minutes because of water in the bilge area. Usually pretty serious surf so be ready, but lots of people can be a blessing if you get in trouble. Wear a helmet. Have fun, surf is a non stop blast.
 
shaunsteezy

shaunsteezy

Location
HUNTINGTON BEACH CA
why not go to the Grayland event next weekend. its main purpose is to get new guys out in the surf and a bunch of pros will be there to give you tips. its also closer to you if your in Seattle. other then that your ski should be fine in the surf, plenty of guys i ride with have similar setups
 
J

j'ray

Location
Seattle, Wa
Thank you for the advice! Very helpful. I did not know about Grayland. I will consider that! I only have weekends available for riding and I was planning on taking a 3 day weekend to head to surf slam. Why not both!!

I forgot about a helmet. I've never worn one due to the boring lake riding I usually do. Does a motocross helmet work ok in the water or does it get too soggy?
 
Crab

Crab

thanks darin...noswad!
Location
Seattle
Find Camron or myself at Grayland or the Slam, we will set you straight. Wasn't that long ago I rode waves for the first time ....2006 on a kawi 650. As far as the boater ed card, its the law now so if you do happen to get stopped its automatic $87.

http://chelanmarinepatrol.org/?page_id=121

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whitca

whitca

Location
Tri-Cities, WA
j'ray said:
Thank you for the advice! Very helpful. I did not know about Grayland. I will consider that! I only have weekends available for riding and I was planning on taking a 3 day weekend to head to surf slam. Why not both!!

I forgot about a helmet. I've never worn one due to the boring lake riding I usually do. Does a motocross helmet work ok in the water or does it get too soggy?
Click to expand...

Definitely swing grayland if you can....much better environment for beginner surf riders than surf slam (granted not sure how that will change with the new krash tour schedule). I'll be there next Thursday morning. As for surf slam feel free to find crab or myself and we can help get you set straight. I'll be in pac city all week after labor day. A lot of guys ride with mx helmets but as it was already said they get heavy.
 
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