Cafeoutdoors.com: License a homemade mud motor?

I've never titled my weedwacker longtail, my 5 HP mud motor, my 2.8 HP mud motor or any of the homemade boats I've built over the years.

There used to be a license exemption for vessels operating on temporary flood waters but that has disappeared from the watercraft manual in recent years. So my logic was always that since I only used it during duck season and almost exclusively on CA's (temporary flood waters) I didn't need it. When ever I hunt permanent water I typically use my jon boat which is licensed or a kayak or layout without a motor although I'd be lying if I said I never ran it on permanent water.

I know there are a number of people who feel the same way and don't register their duck boats either. However, the water patrol is getting more and more sticky about it and they now show up at CA ramps from time to time during duck season. I don't know what the fine is but I'd rather not have to pay it, or worse yet have to pay it multiple times. I know I once said that I would never title and register any homebuilt craft, but the probability of getting caught seems to be getting greater each season. So once I get a new KARA built it and my 5 HP MM will get licensed.

I have dealt with the water patrol a few times in the past to get other boats and motors inspected and it ain't a big deal. They just make sure it is safe and run any numbers to make sure it ain't stolen. Of course theres no worry of stolen with a homebuilt. They will provide you with the proper documentation to take to the D.O.R.

So weather it is worth it or not is up to you, but the risk is there.

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Shawn Wheaton
Missouri Waterfowl Association
Westside Chapter Chairman

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