Along with a following the Rules of the Road, the most important thing to remember is that you are responsible for your boat's wake, and any damage it might cause. Take care around slower vessels and fishermen, and pass them with as much room as possible. Always observe no wake zones. And always approach a docking area at a slow speed. Just think of your neighbors who may be enjoying drinks or dinner on their boat nearby.

Like trailering, docking takes practice — particularly on windy days, or in places where there is a strong current.

• Approach the dock with the port side of the boat, if possible.
• Come to a stop a short distance from the dock, then proceed slowly.
• Have mooring lines ready.
• If there is no wind or current, approach the dock at a 10 to 20° angle.
• If the wind is pushing you away from the dock, use a sharper angle of approach.
• If you approach from downwind, use a slower speed and shallower angle.
  
  

Anchoring

ALWAYS anchor your boat from the bow - NEVER from the stern. With the squared transom and the weight of the engine, anchoring from the stern could allow the current to pull your boat underwater. Make sure the line is tied both to the anchor and to the forward cleat or bow eye. After dropping the anchor, pull on the line to make sure it is holding, and periodically check your position against the shoreline to be sure you're not drifting.