I also stand and look over the windshield/bow. My eyes are always scanning the water surface for anything that is bobbing or unnatural on the surface. Most nights the water is glass which helps logs/etc stand out. The city lights of driving at night in Pittsburgh light up the water very nice.
I caution the use of the spotlight as little as possible as it does kill your night vision. On lakes, we have used it when driving by points/signs to verify where we were. Typically, I run the middle of the river. Or as far off shore on a lake as possible to make out the profile of the shoreline better.
I love riding at night better than the day. The water is glass. The stars are beautiful. Lots less traffic. Enjoy it and be safe.
As far as docking lights, I see why they aren't legal for driving. They don't really help you see but in front of the boat. (we use them for putting on the trailer). Watching the boat come in, you have white light, green/red, white light. We are trained that white is the back of the boat. So it would be extremely confusing approaching from the front as to what side you need to go on.
If you are putting it on a trailer at night, it is important to have the trailer straight behind the tow vehicle. I leave the lights on the tow vehicle and turn the bed light on in the middle of the truck. This gives the wife an aiming point for putting the bow.
Last edited by jzelt; 07-15-2010 at 04:42 PM.
2004 Supra Launch 22 SSV
5.7L Indmar Assault
"One More Hour"