New to Richmond Hill Area-where to boat? (home, to buy)

[outdoorman]

I'm 2 weeks new to area and brand new to salt waters, so since I have access to using a 17 ft runabout want to know where I can go without getting into too much trouble as I learn out boating in coastal waters.
Ive got some expierience motoring in fresh waters but never been on creeks/rivers that go in/out with tide. Also if any freshwater lakes around- really appreciated.

[ellie]

You can always find the nearest boat ramp, put your boat in, and go ride around. Or, find a local marina or bait and tackle shop. About half the time you will find someone willing to give you local info. The other half the time, people will be pretty quiet till they get to know you.

Also with the tide thing, don't go fast in unfamiliar rivers till you learn where the sandbars are. A lazy excursion at low tide will begin to show you how the creeks are shaped. Stay out of long narrow creeks while you're a beginner.

More than likely you will run aground more than once. Everyone does. Don't go out without water, snacks, bug spray, a light jacket, and a cell phone. [oh dear, my list is getting longer, you need paddles, an extra shear pin for your propeller, a flashlight...] It's really no big deal to spend a few hours waiting for the tide to return. (but it may seem like forever) But if you have a cell phone, most of the time you can call home so no one worries.

Invest in a good local chart, too. Channels shift but if you learn your way around, you'll be more comfortable out on the water.

{you need to buy a tide log, too }

[Padgett2]

Learn to go with the tide as much as possible too. It will surprise you how fast the tide can run, especially the time of the New and Full moons. There is a lot of water to move and it can be swift! Plan your learning trips so that you go with the tide if possible. If you find yourself trying to buck the tide to get where you want to go, get closer to the shore line. It will be easier. But as Ellie said, watch for sand bars and mud flats. Stay out of the shallow creeks until you are sure of the layout.

You don't say what HP your motor is. If it's a low HP, it may not be enough to handle the swiftest tides. You would have to plan your outing to take advantage of the current. Be sure to take care of your motor. Salt water can really ruin it quickly if it's not flushed well after using.