What should be included on a float plan?

Including your itinerary for the outing in a float plan is essential for safety and communication purposes. A float plan serves as a detailed document that informs others of your plans while out on the water. It typically outlines where you intend to go, the expected time of departure, and the anticipated return time. By providing this information, in the event of an emergency or if you do not return as scheduled, rescue services or your emergency contacts will have a clearer idea of your whereabouts and can initiate a search more effectively.

While emergency contacts are important, they should not be the only detail included in a float plan. A comprehensive itinerary greatly enhances the usefulness of the plan. Similarly, items like a boat maintenance schedule or fishing licenses may be valuable for your overall boating experience but do not directly contribute to ensuring safety through communication with others regarding your outing.