I would think a boat that has planer boards out 150' on both sides of the boat does have restricted maneuverability along with dipsey's & trolling lines, it sure can't turn on a dime. I always stay outside the crowds as much as I can. I have also had trouble with the Cig. speed boats not seeing my boards until the last minute too and almost going between the boat & the boards & I always put flags on the boards.
I believe the law reads, the boat that has the least maneuverability has the right of way which would be the boat trolling with boards & other equipment out. This was told to me by a US. Coast Guard a few yrs. back. We have also had arguments with sail boats in the past!
Not sure which is worst, the sail boats or the guy going east & west & looking out the back of his boat not paying attention when everyone else is trolling north & south! Geeeeeze!
FYI,They just did a study of the Hellbenders in the Allegany river in the Ellicottville NY. area. It was on the CRCS Outdoors tv show on one of the outdoor sports channels. They are a special thing to the Native Americans in the area. They live under flat rocks on the river bottom.
Cfindlay, FYI, go to "Madsdocks.com" site & check out their outdoor products poor man tree rod holders. They look good for the money, not to pricey, maybe fit your budget. Disclaimer; I have nothing to do with these products!
Nice fish, congrats. Is that a classic wooden boat your in? I'd like to see some pics. of it. Are there new/better launches at Canadice & Hemlock lakes now? Are the 16' boat or less & the 10 hp rules still in effect on these lakes? Thanks.