Author: Arran James

Categories
Safety at Sea

5 Safe Boat Handling Tips for Bad Weather

Calm seas and winds are certain to mean enjoyable fishing, wakeboarding, power boating, etc.

Bad Weather Boating

A light chop and fresh breeze is practical for an invigorating windsurfing or sailing adventure. But extreme weather with lightning, torrential downpours, gusty winds, or dark clouds are certain to go against a captains wish.

Below are five tips to stay safe on a sail or power boat trip:

1 – Plan ahead

Plan ahead and listen out for local weather forecasts. Use a 3-5 day outlook to help determine the weather for the planned adventure. Use NOAA (The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) or a similar service to determine whether or not it is practical to venture out to sea.

Listen out for storm or gale warnings, small craft advisories, or small boat cautionary statements in the forecast. Most of these services can give a reliable indication on high waves or winds that might occur within the next 24 hour period.

2 – Radio Tips

Use a VHF transceiver that is built to accept the NOAA weather radio stations. This type of VHF radio is readily available and makes it easy to stay in touch with the constant changes in weather. But, the quality of reception will vary significantly with the transmitter and location. An average distance is in the region of 25-40 miles. If planning on cruising beyond that distance, a high-quality HF transceiver (single sideband) might be a practical addition to the boat. The price for an HF transceiver is a lot more, but this piece of equipment should give the desired piece of mind that the property and life are better protected

3 – Stay alert

Because the weather can change without a moments notice it benefits to stay tuned into a weather station like the NOAA for the duration of the trip. Early notification of changes heading in your direction makes it easy to take the required action to protect the passengers and property.

Signs of an approaching storm consist of:

  • Lightning flashes
  • Increase in sea or wind speed
  • Threatening, dark clouds that could indicate a thunderstorm or squall
  • An AM radio experiencing heavy static might indicate a local thunderstorm

Head to shore if a thunderstorm might be approaching and get on land and under shelter as soon as possible. If afloat throughout a thunderstorm the lightning and gusty winds have the potential to impact safety. Put on life jackets and get prepared for the difficult seas. Plus, wait out the storm below deck.

4 – Seamanship

Should a thunderstorm of similar hazard appear out of nowhere within a short time-frame, a captain with good seamanship is certain to be more effective at helming the boat in these conditions. A seasoned skipper will have a broad understanding and skills to helm the vessel in many difficult situations. Plus, an experienced skipper will have knowledge of geography, water, and wind speeds. This type of knowledge is gained from actual boating experience or to a lesser extent in a classroom environment. A boat should be well prepared to handle any sudden change in condition. Safety equipment (life jackets, ropes, anchors, etc.) can be kept ready and available for immediate deployment.

5 – Weather broadcasts

  • Coast Guard NAVTEX (518 kHz)
  • Coast Guard VHF(Channel 22A)(157.1 MHz)
  • Commercial AM and FM Radio Stations
  • NOAA Weather Radio (162.400 MHz)
  • National Institute (2.5 MHz)
  • Standards and Technology (5 MHz)
  • Stations WWV and WWVH (15 MHz)

Categories
Boat Maintenance & Organization

10 Routine Boat Maintenance Tips

A properly maintained boat and equipment is critical to continued safety on the water.

Seasonal Boat MaintenancePlus, a regular maintenance program will help to save money in the long-term as it avoids issues with major repairs and faults.

Below are ten things to include in a boat maintenance checklist to ensure the boat is kept in full working order at all times:

1 – Battery

The battery should be given proper care and attention to ensure it is kept well-maintained and fully charged, while also ensuring the right fluid levels are in place. Plus, a build up of dirt and dampness can result in the battery draining much quicker than usual, so be certain to maintain its condition.

2 – Bilge pump

Give the bilge pump a regular check-up. Plus, it can benefit to ensure the battery has the capacity to operate the pump for a sufficient amount of time if required.

3 – Carbon Monoxide Detector

Any enclosed cabin can benefit from a carbon monoxide (CO) detector. Give the exhaust system a regular check for signs of leaks. Carbon monoxide is a result of deficient fuel combustion, which can lead to a serious case of poisoning.

4 – Cleaning

Washing down the boat after use is a more practical job than giving a shine to the fiberglass structure. A regular clean of the hull, deck, and related equipment is critical to counteract the damage that is caused by sea water and environment impact. Plus, anti-fouling paint and waxing is a further step in the right direction to preserve the integrity of the boat structure.

5 – Cover

Use a purpose-made boat cover throughout the lay-up period to avoid issues with contaminants and ensure the hull is protected against exposure to UV rays.

6 – Electrical components

Electrical components must stay dry to operate in the correct fashion so give a regular inspection to identify issues with corrosion. An extra safety step includes applying a high-grade non-conductive and water-repellent corrosion inhibitor or grease.

7 – Fuel

Fuel must be kept water-free. A well-maintained fuel tank is certain to avoid issues with condensation. A fuel stabilizer is a reliable method to avoid issues with oxidation or fuel degradation. Plus, the addition of fuel filters can further help to avoid issues with water getting into the system.

8 – Mooring

Damage occurs to boats not only when in use, but also when laid-up or docked. Ensure the mooring lines are safe and secure and tied neatly. Give the mooring lines a regular inspection to detect early signs of wear and tear.

9 – Motor

Have the motor inspected at regular intervals to detect signs of corrosion, damage, or rust. Check on oil levels after each outing and ensure proper cleanliness and filtration. Also, monitor the efficiency of the cooling system to ensure it is functioning to the correct grade.

10 – Winterization

Before laying the boat up for the winter season, make sure to put the watercraft through an extensive winterization program to ensure it is more prepared for next season. Whether the motor-driven, sail, or PWC is kept in a lock-up garage, climate controlled storage unit, or in-water, follow the right steps to winterize the boat to protect the machinery and equipment.

Categories
Boat & Yacht Market

Buying a New or Used Pontoon Boat Checklist

Choosing the right pontoon boat to invest in needs careful thought and consideration.

Pontoon Boat

A multi-purpose pontoon can be used for a variety of activities and varies significantly in relation to price.

Below are several tips to help decide on the right pontoon to match the intended use:

What is the intended use of the boat?

A versatile pontoon boat is functional in several different areas, including:

  • Skiing
  • Wakeboarding
  • Entertaining
  • Fishing

Whether it is fishing or parties, there are purpose built pontoons that can offer a practical solution to the boating requirements.

1 – Fishing

A pontoon boat modified for fishing activities comes equipped with live wells, fish finders, built-in tackle boxes, fishing chairs, etc. A purpose built model can vary in relation to the specific outfitting and range from the basic to luxury models.

2 – Party Boats

A spacious boat for parties is certain to include the pontoon boats with the wide open spaces, tables, seating, and perhaps even a bar. Most of the party boats come with a choice of floor plans and include the desired amenities and space to entertain 10-15 guests or more.

3 – Pleasure cruise

A more relaxing cruise is experienced in the pleasure cruising models which aren’t outfitted with the extras needed for fishing, water sport, etc. Pleasure models are designed with comfortable seating and great capacity. An 18-foot pontoon is perfect for 6-8 passengers; a 22-foot model can easily accept 10-12 passengers, while a 26-foot pontoon is more practical for 16+ passengers.

4 – Watersport

A watersport inspired pontoon boat is able to combine the performance of a speed boat with the comfort and luxury of a pontoon boat. A high-performance pontoon boat is built with enough drive and power to easily pull wakeboards, tubes, or skiers. A watersport package is a practical choice for those planning to engage in the various different sports on the lakes.

Calm or rough water

A standard pontoon boat is built to cruise on calm lakes and rivers. But, if planning to use a boat on rough or open waters, it might benefit to look at other options. Certain pontoon can be fitted with heavy-duty riser components and extra welding to provide more efficient stability and function.

Boat market for pontoons

Buying a new or a second-hand pontoon boat often relates to the finances. Carefully search the market to see which models are available. A new boat with warranty can be just as cost-effective to buy compared to a slightly used model. Take extra care when shopping for a used boat to avoid issues with minimal ongoing care and attention.

Shop for a pontoon boat at any time of the year as great deals are presented to the market year-round. Plus, look out for dealer specials or promotions which can take place at any moment. Since there is no best time to buy a boat you should just start the shopping process when you are ready to buy and go boating. Also, for the first time boater, it might be a practical decision to go on a boat safety course before taking charge of a boat for the first time.

Categories
Boat & Yacht Market

Waterfowl Hunting: Tips for Buying a Duck Boat

A well-chosen duck boat has the ability to offer a wide range of opportunities for the water fowler.

Duck Boat

But, a fully outfitted hunting boat can be a large investment, so it is critical to carefully research the available options in the market.

Critical issues to evaluate include:

  • Where you hunt
  • Hunting style
  • Amount of gear carried
  • Passengers on board
  • Traveling distance
  • Other uses for the boat

What are the different hull configurations?

V-bottom

A V-bottom boat is the most practical choice for use on large bodies of water, such as major estuaries and the Great Lakes. The majority are manufactured in fiberglass or aluminum, which makes them reliable enough for the wide-ranging hunting activities. The V-hulled boats are stable and heavy with sharp enough keels to move through the water. Also high transoms and gunwales prevent water washing over the sides.

Semi-V

A versatile option comes with the modified-V or semi-V hulled boats which is a popular model with duck hunters. This type of boat is constructed with a mild keel and pointed bow to help part waves while also have a flat bottom for using on shallow bodies of water. They are often made with the sole intention of waterfowl hunting in mind and quickly fitted with a concealing blind.

Flat-bottom

A Jon boat with flat-bottom is perfect for shallow waters and even more efficient when combined with a mud motor. Most are built with a high degree of stability with a wide and open platform that is perfect for installing a boat blind. But, the square bow can give a quite rough ride in the more difficult waters.

Outboard motors

2-stroke

A duck boat is easily combined with a 2 or 4 stroke outboard motor. 2-stroke outboards are a versatile and reliable option. They are more cost-effective, portable, and lighter compared to the 4-stroke. Plus, the 2-stroke units usually give more responsiveness and acceleration compared to the 4-strokes. But, the 4 stroke outboard is more fuel efficient and quieter than the 2-stroke motors.

4-stroke

Modern duck boats are fitted with the 4-stroke motors for the fact it isn’t necessary to mix and measure oil and gas, quieter to operate, more fuel-efficient, and overall cleaner to use. Plus, the 4-stroke outboard is more efficient at providing a higher top-end speed compared to the 2-stroke units. The 4-stroke motors do present certain issues though, including being more expensive, larger, and heavier.

Mud Motors

Mud motors come with a choice of configurations: surface-drive and long-tail. They are highly effective at riding over obstructions and the preferred choice for passing over shallow waters compared to the more traditional motors in the market. Both configurations are practical for 2-3 inches of water, but the surface drive is the most desirable option to use for soft bottom and open areas. Use the long-tail motors when likely to experience issues with stumps or similar obstacles.

Outfit with accessories

Essential accessories for the duck hunter can vary and might consist of a bow-mounted floodlights, plug-in spotlight, trolling motor, depth finder, bilge pump, gas tank, anchor, fire extinguisher, life jackets, etc.

Categories
Safety at Sea

11 Safety Tips to Using Inflatable Rafts, Canoes & Kayaks

Inflatable boats such as white water rafts, canoes, kayaks, etc. are extensively available and made water sports a mainstream activity.

Inflatable Kayak for White Water RaftingWhile a reliable and high-quality boat can be helpful it is also critical to practice safety and take precautionary measures with an inflatable to avoid accidents. Mishaps at sea are easily caused by ill-preparedness, ignorance, and negligence.

Here are eleven tips for staying safe while in control of the inflatable boat:

1 – Alert skipper

Similar to road vehicles, avoid operating the inflatable when under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or at times of illness. Controlling the boat on rough waters can require an alert and quick mind so make sure the skipper is always in a position to instantly make the proper handling decision.

2 – Boat safety course

A practical method to enhance the boating knowledge and navigation skills is to complete a boat safety course. An in-class or online course can teach everything there is to know about the safety operation of the boat.

3 – Boat skills

Be familiar with the all-round handling skills of the inflatable before venturing out on the water. Get experienced before taking charge of the inflatable and rely on those with experience or use less challenging and shallow water to get a full appreciation of using the boat.

4 – Life jackets

To comply with local rules and regulations make sure a life jacket is made available for each person on board the inflatable. Plus, the life jackets should be at the correct size (adult or child) to match those on the boat.

5 – Outboard motor

Give the outboard motor a test and visual inspection before setting off to ensure it is fully operational. Also, ensure there is enough fuel (with some spare) to complete the intended trip.

6 – Safety equipment

Make sure the inflatable boat is outfitted with the essential safety equipment before leaving port. Compile a checklist of safety equipment that can be quickly checked before setting off. Essential safety equipment includes:

  • Emergency repair kit
  • First aid kit
  • Flares
  • Flashlight
  • Handheld radio
  • Life jackets
  • Maps
  • Mobile phone
  • Personal floatation device

7 – Seated position

Passengers should stay in a seated position while the inflatable is moving to increase safety and avoid falling overboard.

8 – Shore party

Let a nominated person know the intended itinerary, how long you expect to be out, and personal details of those on-board.

9 – Swimmers

Avoid unsafe areas such as those that attract swimmers or other water sport activities. If it is necessary to pass through an area with swimmers make sure to keep a watchful eye on the water to avoid any mishaps.

10 – Taking passengers

A backup skipper or at least someone with knowledge of operating an inflatable is certain to benefit when passengers are on board. A nominated person should be available to take control of the boat in the event something happens to the skipper.

11 – Water regulations

Make sure to have a practical understanding of the local water regulations for the body of water that you intend on using. Check with the local authorities if you aren’t entirely sure of what is involved.

Categories
Boat & Yacht Market

6 Tips for Writing a Better Ad to Sell Your Boat

Preparing the boat or related accessories for sale is certain to help achieve the more desirable price tag, while also speeding up the process.

Boat Here are six tips to prepare the boat or supplies for sale:

1 – Be aware of fraud

Similar to selling anything online it is essential to be cautious of fraud and deceit. If an offer seems suspicious or too good to be true, be careful and conduct further checks to ensure you are in contact with a legitimate buyer.

2 – Boat inquiries

Aim to reply to questions related to the advertisement as soon as possible. A fast and helpful response will show you are serious about selling the boat and / or related accessories. A first impression is certain to count, so make show the ability to work on a potentially large transaction.

3 – Contact details

Make it easy for the would-be buyer to get in contact, and give a choice of contact details such as phone and email. Also, give the location of the boat so that the enquirer is able to appreciate the distance to travel before making any serious commitments to come and inspect the boat.

4 – Descriptions

Write a detailed description of the boat or accessories for sale. Make sure to highlight the most attractive features in the process of writing out the boat details on the online or print form. Use phrases like regularly serviced, excellent condition, popular model, etc. to get the attention of the would-be buyer.

Provide a full list of inventory and specifications. Compile a list of the make and model of the items that form part of the sale. Plus, give the value of the boat supplies which makes it easier to justify the asking price. Also, make sure to be truthful and correct in the process of itemizing the inventory and stating the condition of the vessel.

5 – High-quality photos

Make sure the boat or accessories are well presented and in good light before taking the photographs for the ads. Take close up pictures of the best features or items of equipment. Use an extra light for interior shots if the natural light is quite dim. Plus, make use of photo processing software to enhance the picture quality before uploading.

6 – Preparing the boat (or accessories) for sale

Before putting a boat on the market give it a careful inspection for signs of neglect and clean and tidy it. This is an essential step to take before going ahead with the sale. A complete polish of the hull and desk and inside of the boat is usually recommended. A well-kept boat is much more able to give the right impression to the potential new owner.

De-clutter the boat and remove everything from sight that can make the boat appear neglected. Dispose of garbage bags; clean the fridge/icebox, and place crockery or similar items in the appropriate lockers. Making the boat appear more spacious is certain to make it appear a better investment. Ensure everything on display is clean and in full working order. Remove any of the boat supplies that aren’t working or in low-quality condition.

Plus, similar rules apply to selling outboard motors, tender dinghies, trailers, life rafts, etc. Clean and tidy before putting up for sale.

Categories
Safety at Sea

9 Quick Tips to Help Minimize Sea Sickness

Sea sickness (also referred to as car sickness and motion sickness) is a common complaint and relates to an inner ear disturbance resulting from repeated movement.

Acustraps Sea Sickness Bands

Symptoms relating to this condition include an unwell feeling, sweating, dizziness, vomiting, and nausea. Most of the symptoms are caused by a noticeable change in the equilibrium and balance in the inner ear.

Here are 9 tips that can help to minimize the effects of motion sickness:

1 – Acidic, heavy, or greasy foods

Before setting sail avoid eating foods that are quite high in relation to acidic, heavy, or greasy. Instead, eat a light meal about 60 minutes before departure to give the stomach something to consume. Be cautious of salad dressings or similar as they are usually high in acidic content. An early morning meal can consist of porridge or cereals. Plus, an ingredient like ginger is appreciated for its ability to ward off sea sickness and is available in several forms, such as cookies and biscuits.

2 – Alcohol

It is best to avoid drinking too excess the night before going out on the sailboat. Wait until fully accustomed to life on the water before indulging in acidic, caffeinated or alcohol drinks.

3 – Caffeinated drinks

Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks for at least 24-hours or more before planning to go out on a sailing adventure. Caffeine has the potential to increase the risk of suffering from a headache, and this isn’t likely to benefit those that start to feel seasick once on the open waters.

4 – Exhaust fumes

Avoid sitting in any area of the boat that will put you within close proximity to the exhaust or diesel fumes. Plus, for those on a small Cuddy cabin or motor cruiser, it helps to avoid leaving the engine on when static for a significant period. Engine fumes often return to the boat and can make it quite unpleasant for the passengers or crew on board.

5 – Hypnotism

A hypnotism session might be the best cause of action for those that have severe difficulties with motion sickness. A scheduled session of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) or Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) has the potential to minimize issues related to this condition. Most of these techniques have special instructions for those that are likely to experience sea sickness on a vessel.

6 – Line of sight

Once the boat is underway, try to avoid using cameras or binoculars, or reading for a prolonged period of time. It can help to have the horizon in sight, but make sure to avoid staring or concentrating on it. Plus, don’t be tempted to stare at things that are normally solid and stable like furniture or walls as this can confuse the brain.

7 – Prepare equipment

When getting prepared for a sailing or fishing trip it can benefit to get all supplies set up and ready before leaving port. Sort the supplies on board or on shore, which should help to significantly reduce the time spent below deck while the boat is in motion. Even moving around a boat when stationary can lead to issues with sea sickness, so make sure to do whatever is possible to minimize the time spent loading supplies on a boat. It might help at the start to avoid going below until you are more used to the motion of the boat and less likely to feel sick.

8 – Sleep

Getting a full and relaxing night’s sleep the evening before venturing out on the water is certain to benefit. Even though there might be some anxiety about going out on a boat, it helps to get in a good 7-8 hours of sleep. A good night’s sleep means you are more likely to be relaxed and ready for setting off in the boat and not dreading the planned trip.

9 – Stay hydrated

Sit in an area of the boat that makes it possible to get plenty of shade and fresh air. Try to avoid getting too hot and have a bottle of water or similar close to hand to avoid issues with dehydration. On a longer excursion, make sure to eat food to avoid getting hungry. Light snacks are the best option to avoid feeling sea sick.

Categories
Safety at Sea

5 Basic Boating Safety Tips for Dogs

Dogs and water can be fun and enjoyable for some, but not all dogs like being out on a boat or kayak.

Dogs and Boats

Dogs have different characters and the type and size of vessel can have a significant impact. A large vessel like a ferry ride shouldn’t be an issue for most dogs unless the pet is highly nervous. But, a small vessel might not be so attractive for a dog.

Below are five safety tips for taking a dog in the water:

Balance

Dogs that are first-time boaters might be quite fearful of the motion of the floor at the start. To help minimize the issues with a potentially rocking boat make sure to prepare the dog before taking them on board. Let the dog get used to the motorboat, sailboat or kayak when ashore to increase the chance of being more comfortable out on the water. After a short time most dogs will start to get accustomed to the motion and balance that comes with being in the water.

Desensitize

A period of desensitizing is the best course of action to get the dog used to live on a small boat, dinghy, or kayak. Sit in the boat with the dog and slowly rock the boat from side to side to give it some motion. Repeat this process of several days to ensure the dog is fully comfortable on board before heading out to sea. Avoid forcing the dog to stay in the boat, but give positive reassurance and build up a trusted relationship that confirms the boat is a safe environment.

  • Any dog on board a boat should know the basic commands like stay, sit, down, etc.
  • Create a specific space on or in the boat for the dog to use and apply a non-slip pad. Let the dog explore all areas of the boat.
  • Show the dog the easiest ways to get in and out of the vessels and lead the dog to the best places to lie or sit in comfort.
  • Make certain a dog is fully comfortable before heading out. A sudden shift in weight can cause issues with small boats or kayaks, so ensure the dog is able to remain stable on board.

Hydration

Similar to people it is very easy for dogs to start to get quite dehydrated when left outside in hot temperatures. Give suitable access to fresh, cool water to avoid issues with thirst and also provide land breaks if possible to let the dog escape and relieve themselves.

  • Puppy pads, litter box or similar might be needed if land breaks aren’t a practical option.
  • Pack enough fresh water to ensure the dog is kept hydrated for the duration of the time on the water. On the hotter days, an increase in fluid intake is highly likely.
  • Plus, consider taking along the pet’s health records in the event these are needed should an emergency arise.

Life Jacket

Even the most competent dog breeds (Portuguese water dogs, Golden Retrievers, etc.) can experience issue in open waters and benefit from the safety of a life jacket. Water current and weather can easily change and it is better to have the safety of a life jacket in place. Life jackets come in a variety of sizes to ensure all breeds are fully protected. A life jacket is not only effective at keeping the dog afloat should it fall overboard, but will also make it easier to grad compared to only having a collar.

Sunscreen

Apply a sunscreen to a dog or provide enough shade is certain to benefit when out on the water. A sunscreen with SPF of 15 or more is practical for applying to the belly, ears (avoiding the ear canal), and nose. Ask the vets to determine the safest brand to use for pets. Many dogs have a tendency to lick it off so you want to avoid issues that could lead to severe stomach upset. A boat hull in fiberglass or aluminum can easily heat up once exposed directly to the sun. This heat is then easily absorbed by the paw pads, so make sure to have a cool or shaded area for the dogs to get relief from the heat.

Categories
Boat & PWC Rental

8 Helpful Tips for Boat Rental

Boat rental can offer a variety of benefits: fun and adventure on the water without the cost of maintenance, docking/storage fees, monthly loans, etc. Plus, it might not be necessary to tow the vessel to the launch site.

Boat Rental

Renting a boat gives the perfect option to try out a different lake or type or class of vessel at minimal expense. The rates to book a preferred type of boat for a daily or longer outing is significantly less than the ongoing costs of ownership. A multi day rental is usually a quite cost-effective option.

Below are eight tips to help with hiring the next rental boat:

Why choose that rental company

Any well established boating destination or lake is certain to have several boat rental companies offering a choice of boats for hire. Just conduct a search using the phrase ‘boat rentals’ and add on the preferred region or lake. A large marina might be worth investigating to see if it has a choice of boats to rent out for several days.

Decide on the type and class of vessel

Rental boats will closely relate to the local waterways and experienced gained. A fishing boat is great for the major fishing sites, a pontoon or deck boat is perfect for larger groups or parties, and a Bowrider is a practical choice for the longer tours. Let the rental service know the planned cruising itinerary and they should be able to provide a boat that closely matches.

Moving from location to location

A rental company might be based on the sea or river front which makes it easy to use the local waters. A boat waiting in a marine slip is certain to be the easiest option to get underway. Alternatively, a trailerable boat gives the option to move further afield and explore areas that interest the most.

Do you have a qualified helmsman in charge?

Boat operators, states, and lakes can vary when it comes to classifying someone as qualified to take on responsibility for a boat. Anyone that has completed a boat safety course will help their cause and make it possible to be accepted as the person in charge. Make sure to check the rules and regulations published by the rental company to ensure you are able to comply.

Also, certain rental companies will be willing to provide free of charge tuition for the specific type of vessel that you will be hiring. This increases the chance of being able to safely operate the boat once out on the waters.

Get the vessel a visual inspection before use

Before setting off and accepting responsibility for the boat, make sure to give it a careful and thorough inspection. Inspect the boat for signs of loose or broken fittings, missing parts, prop damage, cracks in the windshield, dents, and scratches. Make sure any defects are noted before accepting the keys and leaving with the boat.

Is the vessel outfitted with the relevant safety equipment?

A further area to get familiar with is the safety equipment on-board. A life jacket should be available for each member of the crew and passengers on the boat and at the appropriate sizes (child to adult). Make sure you are aware of where everything is kept so that it is easy to access in the event of an emergency.

Is standard insurance protection in place?

A rental agreement should indicate the insurance limits and liabilities. Most of the boat rental agreements state the user is the sole person responsible for problems or issues that materialize whilst on hire. Check the agreement to ensure you are able to comply with the terms and conditions listed. Use an insurance agent to check the details if you aren’t entirely certain of what is noted on the form.

Limitations or restrictions in the rental agreement

Read the rental agreement to be certain you know what you are getting into. Limitations in the contract might relate to the distance traveled from the launch ramp or port. Usability options can vary – certain operators will ban the use of skiers or towable tubes. Night time boat handling might be limited. Plus, make sure to be aware of how forced cancellations are handled.

Categories
Fishing

All about Freshwater Fishing

Freshwater fishing relates to fishing in water that has no to minimal salt content. Fresh water fishing is highly versatile and has the option of fishing for a varied selection of fish species.

Crappie Fish

Freshwater fish amounts to about 42% of the available species.

Some of the favorite freshwater fish species include:

  • Bass
  • Catfish
  • Crappie
  • Musky
  • Salmon
  • Trout
  • Walleye

This type of fishing activity is experienced in streams and rivers, ponds and lakes, from a seafront dock, on a boat or from shore. Plus, there are several different types of lures, baits, and techniques used in the process of catching the fish.

What is the most challenging place to fish?

What is the difference with river or stream fishing and lake or pond fishing? Each body of water presents different variables when it comes to freshwater fishing. A major challenge relates to fast or slow moving water (streams and rivers) to the virtually still water (ponds and lakes). Water make-up, structure, and ecosystem are entirely different with each environment. Get a good understanding of the fishing hole to increase the change of catching the fish.

Freshwater gear to match the fish you’re after

The fishing gear choices are wide-ranging and vary with the different kinds of fish, how you will be fishing, and over competence at fishing. Picking the right fishing tackle and supplies are certain to help be more productive at the bass lake or river. A well-chosen selection of tackle, rods, and reels must match the species of fish that you’re after.

Natural fishing bait vs. lures

A great fisherman has great fishing sense, practical skills, and well rounded selection of gear. The preference for natural fishing bait or lures is down to a variety of factors. Choosing the right tackle can result in a much more productive fishing trip. Choices relate to type of fishing, time of year, and specific fish you are aiming to catch.

Lake maps are indispensable

An ability to read lake maps is certain to be a major benefit to the experienced. A well read map will make it easier to identify the most attractive spots to find the large quantities and preferred type of fish. Using these maps is one of the most effective options to understand the local waters. Whether a complete novice or experienced, these maps are certain to help the fisherman hone their skills and target the right place to fish.

A practical choice is the contour or topographical map. This type of map helps to calculate the depth of water and this is critical to finding the various fish species. Most fish are easily found at particular water depths which can vary with the season and specific fish. Contour maps include lines which indicate the depth and anglers can rely on this information to increase the chance of successfully hooking the fish.

Once a contour map has been read it helps to visit the actual lake or river in-person to fully establish the fishing possibilities in the local area. A typical map is clearly able to show several different sites that are perfect for fishing and includes the depth to fish.

Freshwater fishing tips and tricks

Fishing tactics will vary depending on where you propose to fish. Fishing in cold or brackish water often depends on a particular style, while fishing in freshwater relies on an alternative plan.

  • A great alternative to worm bait is the locust which is appreciated by large fish species.
  • A mossy area is attractive to fish as it packs a lot of food.
  • Cast the line near shore to increase the chance of fishing biting.
  • Read the local fishing reports at the time of fishing to identify the spots the fish are biting.
  • Fish congregate in areas of the river or lake that offer a reliable source of food. This is often an area of the lake that turns deep to shallow.
  • Early morning is a great time to fish.
  • Use a shiny lure to attract specific fish, but there is a chance these lures will cause confusion should the sun reflect directly on them. An alternative option is the fishing lures fished in matted metal.