Stay Safe
ALWAYS HAVE SOMEONE WATCHING FROM THE BANK IF WORKING FROM A DINGHY OR ON THE MUD
Always, always wear a life jacket when on the river. There have been unfortunate accidents, and there are many risk factors in play.
Suggested method
View the area when the tide is out to identify any old tackle which will need removing and mark out where the top anchors will be. Put temporary ropes down the bank ready to receive the bank lines.
Clear the area of any items not required. If any existing materials are to be re used thoroughly check their condition, especially connections onto any existing sinkers or top anchors.
If the sinker is to be scrap iron, ensure there are no protruding features that could damage your boat. A short length of chain should be used if attachment points have sharp edges. Make sure that the pull of the guest line will make the sinker ‘grip’ the mud. If a wheel shaped sinker is attached at the rim, then the guest line will be able to pull the sinker through the mud.
Assemble a bank line, sinker and bridle. Put a temporary float on the bridle. As early as possible on the flood tide, drop sinkers in the required positions being careful not to tangle or trap the lines.. As the tide rises, attach the bank lines to the ropes previously positioned.
Put a guest line between the two floats.
When the tide is out, check the sinker positions. They should be a few metres away from the river bed and in soft mud. Pull up the bank lines and attach to the top anchors which can now be buried. Run the bank lines through trenches to ensure they lie flat on the mud, straight but not under tension. Allow a few days for the sinkers to settle before moving onto the mooring and installing the rest of the equipment including the buoys which should be marked with the licence number. Use hard eyes when using shackles on rope.
Usage and Maintenance:
It is good practice to stow away the guest line when the boat is on the mooring. Check the lines are of adequate length on spring tides and that the boat is sitting correctly when the tide is out. If the mooring is vacated for a long period, such as over winter, use an alternative guest line as it will become saturated with mud.
Most insurers insist that moorings be inspected at least once a year.