Best Way to Control Boat Drift?

[skintback]

What's a good way keep boat from drifting side to side in cross winds? Wind sock?
I bought a Skiff to fish smaller waters and with it sitting on top of the water, I'm sure the wind is going to push it around. When longlining, I try to keep the boat straight, but never had many issues with my bass boat, so not really familiar with drift socks or anything like that.

[tahoe 50]

I use two 15 foot chains on 25 foot of rope. I use two to keep it even. I'll tie the rope too the rear cleats, and very the length to control speed.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

[CatFan]

While you are long lining there isn't going to be much you can do. Light boat sits high and catches the wind. A drift sock will drag behind you.

When I was a kid and we had a 10ft boat, we made a plywood rudder for the back that clamped on. I've seen people do similar for the TM shaft or you can buy a Bullnose Rudder or make your own.

[skeetbum]

With the TM in front, and the keg of the outboard in back and maybe even left in gear, crabbing should be controllable. If the wind gets that bad, it might be time to go anyway.

[Lonnie84]

Controlling wind push from the side is difficult, you need to be using some form of a rudder either front or rear or both like catFan suggested if side wind is your issue. Wind socks and chains even pulling 5 gallon buckets with small holes drilled in them are more useful for controlling speed. Your best advantage is Do Not fight the wind, the wind always wins.... instead either go head-on into the wind which makes it easier to control boat speed or go with the wind and put our drift socks, buckets or chains.