Thread: Fun experiment...MAYBE

Myself and a group of guys will be coming down 04/20/2016-04/24/2016. I have a quad-copter "drone" with live video feed, GPS, waypoints, and an attachment that allows dropping live bait directly under the camera view or wherever needed. 1st question is it legal to launch from the pier or has this been tried before. I realize this would only be possible in times of slow traffic "very early morning...dusk, or night". I figured it would be a cool experiment to try and see a ling or two on camera that couldn't be spotted from the pier and drop the bait in front of them. Or just to take baits out further than you can cast. I'm not going to charge to drop baits, just hoping for some pointers in return...how to filet certain fish, am I using the proper rig..etc. I sure hope it's legal cause I've been wanting to try. I guess I could always do it from shore if it's not ok to do on the pier. Thanks

As you have said, not in times of high traffic. I would really, really like to see you do this, BUT, if it became a popular activity, I can imagine any of several issues of drones on a fishing pier. Somewhere on here is a thread where several folks thought that it could become a pay for service. Keeps us in on what y'all find out.

New guidelines today from FAA. Open areas and fields still allowed. Interpretation between commercial and recreation not understandable to this old plumber.

I am not positive but I don't think there is a rule on the books. But since it would be operating from state property you probably be subject to the ALDOT UAV policies which make almost impossible for a state agency to operate drones.
And if it's not clearly against park rules, I bet it would be the day after your first flight.

I'm still looking for an easy to fly, affordable drone that can reliably operate day/night, buck winds up to 15mph, travel 1000 yards off the beach and carry/drop up to a 10# payload.
So far I'm still relying on young men with more stamina than I to run baits in a kayak.

Got a commercial UAV license?? Ha! Just kidding. But knowing the FAA there's bound to be policy letter or Advisory Circular. They have poke their finger in everybody's eye. And don't forget the FAA moto: "We're not happy until your not happy".

There was a drone flying over the pier several times one day last year...

micdesigns photography (Michael Thomas) uses a drone in GS OB and has posted several pictures on his Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/micdesigns/...type=3&theater

Those suckers can be hard to hit when they're moving around above treetop level. I may have to start carrying a couple of loads of magnum goose shot. Just in case.

Originally Posted by Pier#r

There was a drone flying over the pier several times one day last year...

Yes, but did it launch from the pier???
I think that is the big question.

Another issue is landing at low speeds. A good wind gust and over the side it goes. Better be quick with the joystick to recover before it hits the water!