another thing to have with you especially if you travel off the beach or venture deep into the back bays and estuaries is a GPS. I have a small handheld version that cost maybe 80 bucks. I have a ram mount for it so I can use it like a dashboard. extra batteries and extra clothes in a dry bag. WATER- bring WATER. I always have my VHF radio on any body of water that has power boats.

The rule of thumb is that a non powered vessel always has the right of way. I always give way to all vessels- it is hard to prove your right when you are dead.