Final answer:
To free a small boat on a sandbar after shifting weight, push the boat into deeper water and rock it gently, preferably during a rising tide. Follow environmental guidelines to protect Maryland waters, such as cleaning the boat and equipment and rinsing fishing gear.
Step-by-step explanation:
After shifting weight away from the grounded area of the hull to attempt to free a small boat on a sandbar, the next action is to push the boat into deeper water. If possible, you can rock the boat gently side to side to help dislodge it.
Ideally, you should do this at a time when the tide is rising to give you the best chance of refloating the boat. Additionally, being mindful of the environment, you should follow proper procedures to protect Maryland waters when operating vessels in the area, including:
- Remove all visible plants, animals, mud, and debris from the boat and related equipment
- Drain and rinse live wells, bilge areas, and coolers
- Rinse all fishing and boating gear with a hard spray from a garden hose
Remember, maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems is crucial as you enjoy recreational boating activities.