Ocean Border Patrol needs more attention to detail, efficiency

MIKE WHITEHEAD

Ahoy.

I could not believe my eyes, but there was not a huge line of

people waiting to walk across the border into the U.S. from Mexico. I

thought either that my timing was perfect, or something was amiss.

However, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the Border Patrol has

improved the overall efficiency.

Ever since Sept. 11, the Border Patrol had made a show of force

for people walking across the border with metal detectors and bag

screening. I had a huge problem with this show of force, though,

because at the same time, there was minimal enforcement of boats

cruising up the coast or, for that matter, those on buses who were

screened less.

Recently I was cruising back into the U.S. from Mexican waters,

and for the first time, I was actually followed by a Border Patrol

RIB boat once I was inside the harbor.

It was easy to see I was cruising back from an international

voyage, as I was the only vessel approaching from the south, and I

still had my courtesy Mexican flag hoisted. These agents in the RIB

could not or would not check me in. I still had to go to the San

Diego Police dock to call for another agent to drive down for

check-in. The efficiency could be dramatically improved.

At least it is a start on their behalf toward watching the ocean

border closer, but let’s make the check realistic and efficient. I

have an idea: I will extend an invitation for a Border Patrol agent

to ride with me on my next cruise, and I can show firsthand how to

improve the current system.

I mention the border, because last week, I told you how the

hurricane season is in effect, but many of the boaters in Newport

Harbor will head south to Ensenada for a vacation. Plus, the fishing

is great south of the border, so many fishing boats are heading south

for the good bite. Remember, whether you touch foreign soil or not,

once you cross the international border, you must check in with

customs on your return.

Speaking of fishing! Davey’s Locker’s second annual Kid’s Summer

Fishing Tournament is now underway. The first year’s tournament was a

tremendous success. Davey’s Locker contributes that to the generous

sponsor donations, so this year should be bigger and better.

The tournament runs for the months of June, July and August and is

open to all kids 15 years old and younger. The best part is that it

is free to enter. The only caveat is that the youth must catch the

fish on a Davey’s Locker’s sport boat or one of the skiffs. Of

course, the fish caught must be of legal size, and you can only use a

rod and reel.

The tournament is a perfect way to teach the youth the enjoyment

of fishing and experience an enjoyable summer activity. There are

many prizes including rods, reels, tackle, gift certificates and

T-shirts. You can read more online at https://www.daveys locker.com,

and those wanting to help sponsor can call Tiffany Peters at (949)

673-1434.

TIP OF THE WEEK

Monitor your carbon monoxide exhaust fumes from your engines,

generators and barbecues aboard your boat. Did you know that while

cruising slowly downwind in the harbor that the winds can blow the

exhaust fumes back into your cabin. Ever have some guests experience

acute headaches that are not related to motion sickness? Also, never

let anyone teak surf -- where a swimmer hangs onto the swim step

while being pulled through the water. The low pressure behind the

transoms pulls the exhaust fumes back to the transom.

Tune in to my “Boathouse Radio Show” from noon to 1 p.m. every

Saturday on KCBQ-AM (1170). You can join in during the nation’s No. 1

boating talk radio show by calling the listener line at (888)

344-1170, and you can listen at https://www.boat houseradio.com.

* MIKE WHITEHEAD is the Pilot’s boating and harbor columnist. Send

him your harbor and marine-related thoughts and story suggestions by

e-mail to mike@boathousetv.com or visit https://www.boathouse tv.com.