David. Welcome to the forum. Recovery… a tricky business. I will list the alternatives and you can make your mind us as to the best method on your likely water,

The recovery method depends on the distance away from the bank, the depth of water and the urgency of the operation…ie….the amount of smoke being emitted by the boat and/or flames.

In no particular order.

Wellies, near bank rescue

Wading, with or without waders.

Extendible fishing pole or similar with small hook on the end (I have a 10m fishing pole, good reach)

Line, string or whathaveyou with a weight on the end, cast over the boat to land just past it, and dragging said boat nearer to you. A small fishing rod ideal, or a telescopic version.

Rescue boat. Preferably with a flat front and possibly padded, to push boat in. A specialised boat always best but not necessary. The landing craft we have are ideal for this. You would need a separate controller for this obviously in order to control the rescue baot and not the stricken vessel.

Man powered row boat/dingy or whathaveyou.

Using another boat to use the string and tennis ball rig. This is a method whereby a float is attached to a length of line (8 foot possibly) and towed by a.n.other vessel. The rescue boat goes around and around the stricken vessel and the string gets caught on the prop/rudder/superstructure and then gets bodily hauled back to shore.

Swimming (not recommended)

So David, there we have it. The casting method is quite effective to a reasonable distance but needs some skill. Waders and fishing pole can get out a fair way. Ensuring the boat has sufficient bouyancy so it doesnt sink on turning turtle is always good.

Below. Ideal rescue craft; cheap,dead easy to make, plans available…good intro into the world of make-it-youself boating,manouverable, flat front; can carry sandwiches around the pond (ditch the tank).

Ashley