Hobie Cat Forums

SOMEBODY TELL ME THE BEST PLACE TO PUT NUMBERS

Google is your friend:
http://www.takemefishing.org/state/page/state-boating/register-your-boat/state/TX (Scroll to the bottom.)

And you might want to check out that stuck CAPS LOCK key before you click on "Submit".

Thanks. I will always check my caps on/off in future.
Thanks for the link to texas.gov.
I went to the link but it didn't fully apply.
I understand how the state of Texas wants the numbers placed. My confusion stems from fact that I can't determine whether the numbers should go on the AMA three inches toward the stern from the decal on both sides of the hull near the bow or on the center kayak hull three inches back from the decal.
My logic tells me on the AMAS since the visibility may be restricted by the AMAS if I place the numbers on the kayak hull itself.
I am putting the numbers on today and I will assume that the AMAS are the place to put them...if I don't see any post here that confirms this or suggests otherwise.

I don't think you'll be stopped for improper placement in either position. The state agency is more concerned with the fact that you've actually registered the boat than with where you place the numbers.

longkayakwithsail:
If you go to the posting ( The Ultimate Tandem Island (hydrofoils, spinnaker,jib,etc) ( viewtopic.php?f=69&t=33720 ) you can see in the picture where I placed my numbers on the center hull, they would go in the same place on an AI. I called and asked (in Florida) and they said on a trimaran the numbers should go on the main hull. The registration stuff is pretty universal nationwide and dictated and overseen by the coastguard but administered by each state. You might notice the picture on the Texas website, thats a Florida registration (the Illinois web site also has a Florida reg in their pictures), they all apparently get their pics from the coast guard for their websites. Hope this helps.
Bob

I'm not too familiar with Hobie kayaks, but aren't the amas removable? Seems to me you would want the numbers on the main hull in the event that you ever used the boat without amas.

sm

Good point, however If the AMAS are removed the boat becomes a kayak not a sailboat and the state of Texas does not require any registration for kayaks unless a motor is used.
I think I will put them on the AMAS since the bow area of the kayak hull is not shaped as a good area to place numbers.

MBounds :
I don't think thats true, I know several boat owners who were told to correct their numbers, they seem to be very big sticklers over the correct location (at least around here (Florida) and in Illinois). On a trimaran the HIN number is alway on the center hull, that hull is where the numbers belong ( I was told), plus the AI can be used without the AMA's. At least in my case I have used my motor without the AMA's attached several times (on rivers), and you will for sure be pulled over without the numbers displayed correctly ( I have). I think they look for any excuse to pull you over, they then proceed to check if you have PFD's, whistles, lights (if near dusk), proper fishing licenses, inspect your catch, and make sure your not drunk. It's best to blend in (IMO), let them stop and hassle the next guy.

PS The AI/TI's can go out more than two miles from shore and additional coast guard rules apply, it's a good idea to make sure you have the flares and required stuff when out in open water (you'll get nicked for that too).
Bob

longkayakwithsail:
Putting the numbers on your AMA's would be the same as painting a target on your back. Have you ever noticed whenever you pass a fish and game boat on the water, they look at every boat they pass looking for anything obvious. In my opinion, I would just do it right and not give them the excuse to pull you over, blend in...
Bob

Okay. Thanks for all the input. I haven't put the numbers on yet and I'm glad I waited and checked back here. I will place them on the center (main) hull as a few people have advised.
Mariner Sails where I bought the boat said all the ones they see have the numbers on the main hull as well. I called them after my original question here.
I used the heat as an excuse not to go sailing today it was 103F. But at least I got my numbers and am going to put them on so I'll be ready tomorrow.

From TPWD

Validation Decal to be placed on both sides of the bow.
Display of Registration (TX) Number not required if current USCG Documentation remains in effect.
Certificate of Number ID Card must be carried on board the vessel while in use.

I would place them back about 2-3 feet from the front of the bow.

And this...

Display of Your Number

The number must be painted on, or otherwise attached to each side of the vessel, near the bow, in such position as to provide easy identification.

The number shall read from left to right, be in block characters of good proportion not less than three inches in height and be of a color that contrasts with the background.

The numerals must be separated from the prefix and the suffix by hyphens or equivalent spaces such as the following example: TX 0123 AB and TX-0123-AB.

The validation decal must be affixed in a line with and three (3) inches towards the rear of the boat from the registration number.

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I'd rather be sailing,
Mark.

I just think its ashamed one is required to deface a beautiful boat with such large and ugly numbers and letters. Surely there is a better way.

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