When we head out for a day on the water, we never want consider the worst. And there's no point in trying to imagine every possible danger that could face you during a day on the boat. Instead, make sure you have these US Coast Guard required items on board so that you're prepared to handle anything that comes your way, if something were to happen.
Personal flotation devices (PFDs): Life jackets must be Coast Guard approved, in good condition and of suitable size for each person on the boat (we recommend keeping a variety on the boat so you're prepared for any sort of crew). PFDs must be readily accessible if not being worn (but on boats 16f ft or smaller, they must be worn). Remember, the state of Florida urges all people onboard a boat to wear a life jacket.
Visual distress signals (VDS): Recreational boats 16 ft and over used on coastal waters are required to carry a minimum of either 1) three day and three night pyrotechnic devices, 2) one day non-pyrotechnic device (flag) and one night non-pyrotechnic device (auto SOS light) or 3) a combination of 1) and 2). Recreational boats less than 16 feet on coastal waters need only carry night visual distress signals when operating from sunset to sunrise.
Fire extinguisher: Not required on all boats, but recommended. For example, if you have inboard engines or an enclosed living space, fire extinguishers are required. But as all boats have fuel and engines, it is highly recommended you keep one on board no matter your size. Make sure they are readily accessible (many boats feature recessed areas just for this purpose).
Sound producing device: You might have a built-in horn, but if not, carry a bell, whistle or other noise maker. (In fact, we carry multiple varieties just in case.)
While this is not a comprehensive list, it puts you well on your way to a safer boat. In addition, make sure you check out state and local boating regulations.
Want to take things one step further? Then do a virtual vessel safety check next time you're at the boat. These checks have a few more requirements, which will just make sure you are that much more prepared!
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Safety First: Coast Guard Requirements
Monday, January 21, 2013
How to Win a Fishing Tournament
Okay, we admit: there's no exact formula to follow that will ensure you win a fishing competition. But for those of you planning on joining the 2013 Johnny Kellar Inshore Fishing Tournament, we thought we'd give you a few tournament tips that we've heard and learned over the years.
Know before you go. Do your homework before the tournament. Visit the tournament location (for the Johnny Kellar, you've got from Cedar Key to Naples, inshore of the COLREGS). Check out different fishing reports to see what's biting and under what circumstances. Cruise around to figure out where the popular spots are... and then think about if they are where you want to be. Check different spots at different times of day to discover fish patterns. Look at publications about the tournament in previous years to see if there are any similarities between years.
Equipment check. Just like you'd check your guitar before playing a rock concert, go through and check all of your rods and reels to make sure they're clean and functioning properly. Charge the batteries on your trolling motor and check the battery of your boat to ensure you don't have any electrical problems while you're out. Put fresh line on your rods and reels.
Pack like a winner. Don't forget a thing! Bring all of the lures, bait and tackle you could possibly need. Try to run through every potential scenario in your head so you can prepare for anything. Also, if the fish aren't biting like you predicted they would, you'll have extra materials to make an adjustment on the go.
Gas up. A real obvious one, we know. But make sure your boat is filled up right before the tournament! Don't let something silly like an empty tank get between you and winning.
What are tips for tournament fishing you've picked up?
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Choosing and Caring For a PFD
Some call them PFDs. Others prefer the term "life jacket," and still others will call them "life vests." But whatever your preferred term is for those floaty, plastic-y things that you wear while out on the water, it's important to know how to choose and care for your personal floatation devices.
Requirements
Keep in mind that all recreational vessels must have at least one Type I, II, III, or V personal flotation device (life jacket) that is U.S. Coast Guard-approved, the proper size for each person on board, in good condition and readily accessible. Additionally, vessels 16 feet in length or longer must have one Type IV (throwable) USCG-approved personal flotation device on board and immediately available. Children under 6 years of age must wear a USCG-approved Type I, II, or III PFD at all times while on any vessel less than 26 feet in length that is underway upon Florida waters.
Choosing
The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission provides a great graphic that explains the different types of PFDs:
For adults, chest size will determine what size PFD is necessary. For children, this is determined by weight. Once you've selected the right size, follow these steps:
Do not alter a PFD to make it fit - choose one that works for you. There are many different styles, and many companies make separate men's and women's fits. Further, automatic inflatable vests have become increasingly popular, which allow you to wear a slimmer, more minimal vest that automatically inflates if you hit the water. Choose whatever vest you will be the most comfortable in. Many adults choose not to wear a vest because they are confident in their swimming skills, but consider that if you hit your head on your way out of the boat in an accident or emergency, you won't be conscious and able to swim.
Caring
Treat your PFD carefully, and it will have a long life. Don't use it as a cushion or boat bumper, which can decrease its buoyancy. Avoid putting heavy objects in the pockets (if applicable) or those that can poke holes in the vest. Don't leave your PFD laying in the hot sun for extended periods of time - this will cause the fabric and inner components to wear and crack more easily. If you've used it in salt water, give it a rinse with fresh water before allowing it to drip dry (not in the direct sun!). Store in a cool, dry place with good ventilation to prevent moisture from building or sitting. Put your name on the PFD if you are the only wearer so you don't accidentally put one on that doesn't fit you.
What suggestions do you have for anyone looking to purchase or care for a PFD? Any tips or tricks you've learned over the years?
Requirements
Keep in mind that all recreational vessels must have at least one Type I, II, III, or V personal flotation device (life jacket) that is U.S. Coast Guard-approved, the proper size for each person on board, in good condition and readily accessible. Additionally, vessels 16 feet in length or longer must have one Type IV (throwable) USCG-approved personal flotation device on board and immediately available. Children under 6 years of age must wear a USCG-approved Type I, II, or III PFD at all times while on any vessel less than 26 feet in length that is underway upon Florida waters.
Choosing
The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission provides a great graphic that explains the different types of PFDs:
For adults, chest size will determine what size PFD is necessary. For children, this is determined by weight. Once you've selected the right size, follow these steps:
- Loosen all the straps, put PFD on and zip up.
- Starting at the waist, tighten all the straps. The PFD should feel snug but not uncomfortable.
- Have someone pull up on the shoulders. If it moves up past your nose, tighten the straps. If you can't and/or it still moves, you need a smaller size.
- If possible, test your PFD in a pool or shallow water. It should not ride up or slip over your chin while floating.
Do not alter a PFD to make it fit - choose one that works for you. There are many different styles, and many companies make separate men's and women's fits. Further, automatic inflatable vests have become increasingly popular, which allow you to wear a slimmer, more minimal vest that automatically inflates if you hit the water. Choose whatever vest you will be the most comfortable in. Many adults choose not to wear a vest because they are confident in their swimming skills, but consider that if you hit your head on your way out of the boat in an accident or emergency, you won't be conscious and able to swim.
Caring
Treat your PFD carefully, and it will have a long life. Don't use it as a cushion or boat bumper, which can decrease its buoyancy. Avoid putting heavy objects in the pockets (if applicable) or those that can poke holes in the vest. Don't leave your PFD laying in the hot sun for extended periods of time - this will cause the fabric and inner components to wear and crack more easily. If you've used it in salt water, give it a rinse with fresh water before allowing it to drip dry (not in the direct sun!). Store in a cool, dry place with good ventilation to prevent moisture from building or sitting. Put your name on the PFD if you are the only wearer so you don't accidentally put one on that doesn't fit you.
What suggestions do you have for anyone looking to purchase or care for a PFD? Any tips or tricks you've learned over the years?
Monday, November 19, 2012
Make the Most of a Boat Show
In just over a week, we'll be at the 2012 St. Petersburg Power & Sail Show, enjoying the hustle and bustle one can only find at the largest boat show on the Gulf Coast. We'll have our own set up at the show, of course, but also plan on sneaking away to check out our manufacturers and other neat products that will be on display.
Are you planning on coming to the show? We recommend you prepare ahead of time to ensure you have the most meaningful, educational and fun experience possible!
1. Download the MyBoatShow app.
A boat show with an app, you ask? Surely one event doesn't require an entire mobile app! We think it does. The (free!) app has a new search feature that allows you to search for boats by name; a “Connect” feature that you can use to connect with Show Management; access the show's YouTube, Twitter and Facebook pages; and the option to subscribe to their e-newsletter. The app even has a map of the show! Better yet, if you're a boat show enthusiast like we are, the same app can be used for other major Florida shows (read: The Yacht and Brokerage Show in Miami Beach and others).
2. Take notes.
Seriously. Pretend you're in school again, because you won't be able to keep all of the boat and pricing information straight in your head. Write down everything you think you might need to come to a decision later in the show. If you take notes on your phone, great, but if not, make sure you bring that pen and paper!
3. Plan a strategy.
If you just plan to meander around the show, go for it. But if there are particular dealers or vendors you want to see, make sure you scope out the show ahead of time. You don't want to get to the show and not be able to find your favorite dealer! (Hint hint.) So check out maps ahead of time to make sure you hit all of your highlights.
We think those are the most important 3 things to help make your boat show experience the best possible. But if you have remaining questions, be sure to check out the show's FAQ page!
Now last, but certainly not least, make sure you visit us! Our booth is Land 513-516, and we'll have a bunch of Nautic Star boats on display. We'd love to see your face!
Are you planning on coming to the show? We recommend you prepare ahead of time to ensure you have the most meaningful, educational and fun experience possible!
1. Download the MyBoatShow app.
A boat show with an app, you ask? Surely one event doesn't require an entire mobile app! We think it does. The (free!) app has a new search feature that allows you to search for boats by name; a “Connect” feature that you can use to connect with Show Management; access the show's YouTube, Twitter and Facebook pages; and the option to subscribe to their e-newsletter. The app even has a map of the show! Better yet, if you're a boat show enthusiast like we are, the same app can be used for other major Florida shows (read: The Yacht and Brokerage Show in Miami Beach and others).
2. Take notes.
Seriously. Pretend you're in school again, because you won't be able to keep all of the boat and pricing information straight in your head. Write down everything you think you might need to come to a decision later in the show. If you take notes on your phone, great, but if not, make sure you bring that pen and paper!
3. Plan a strategy.
If you just plan to meander around the show, go for it. But if there are particular dealers or vendors you want to see, make sure you scope out the show ahead of time. You don't want to get to the show and not be able to find your favorite dealer! (Hint hint.) So check out maps ahead of time to make sure you hit all of your highlights.
We think those are the most important 3 things to help make your boat show experience the best possible. But if you have remaining questions, be sure to check out the show's FAQ page!
Now last, but certainly not least, make sure you visit us! Our booth is Land 513-516, and we'll have a bunch of Nautic Star boats on display. We'd love to see your face!
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
A Few Tips For the Fall Fisherman
Ahhhh... Fall in Florida - the mercury has already started to drop. Isn't it the perfect time to head outside and bask in the cooler Fall weather? Of course it is! When considering your Autumnal adventures in the Great Outdoors, be sure to add fishing to the top of your list. You can bet the fish are hungry and just waiting to take a bite of your bait.
It seems that the avid angler prefers to center their Fall fishing adventures around the mighty bass. This sought-after game fish is either elusive in its ways or as easy to catch as (pardon the pun) shooting fish in a barrel. Their popularity has a lot to do with numbers. They live in lakes, rivers, and the ocean.
Fall is actually a great time of year for bass fishing, for both the fisherman and well.... Unless you’re “catching and releasing”, I guess it’s not so great for the fish.
I’ll start with the obvious. For most, Fall is a reprieve from the Summer heat. Also, less bugs. Anyone is more likely to enjoy sitting on the water for a few hours when they’re not constantly sweating and swatting at stinging pests. Sounds like an amazing time whether you’re casting a reel or not, huh?
Onto the bass fishing...
The temperature of the water becomes cooler, which makes the fish more active. Just like humans, when we’re more active, we burn more calories. As a result, we get hungry and eat. The same goes with fish. In a somewhat frenzied state of hunger, they’ll bite just about anything!
There were a few different suggestions as to how to find the bass. Just get to know your body of water. The spots you frequent in the Spring are the same spots you should revisit in the Fall.
Naturally, you should go where their food is hanging around. Bass will eat just about anything. If they can fit it in their mouth, they will eat it. They have been known to eat anything from tiny minnows to lizards to small mammals. If motivated properly, they will even eat another bass! More than likely though, schools of small fish are a good indicator that bass may be lurking.
Natural foliage is another food group for our fine, finned friends. There is another advantage for Autumnal angling! Fallen leaves, especially under the cover or shade of the tree, will attract your target.
Bass are also known to congregate around “cover”. Cover is an object that sticks up from the bottom of a lake or river. It can be a tree stump, piling, a dock, or a log.
There are conflicting points regarding water temperature which makes my last point a good rule of thumb. Go to an area of shallow water that is near a deep area. The bass will hang around the shallow area foraging for food but will head to the deeper water when the temperature changes too rapidly. The temperature in deep water usually stays consistent while the shallow water increases and decreases quickly.
Don’t just take my word for it. Heck, I’m still learning myself! Click below for a couple of helpful and informative websites.
Now that you’re in the fishing frame of mind, why not take a look at some new fishing boats? Gift-giving season isn’t too far away! (hint hint)
Discover Boating
Take Me Fishing
Apparently, Fall isn’t your last chance of the year until Spring to chase bass. If you’re game enough to brave the tundra, give ice-fishing a try!
Bringing the family? Read Fishing Is Fun For the Whole Family for some tips.
It seems that the avid angler prefers to center their Fall fishing adventures around the mighty bass. This sought-after game fish is either elusive in its ways or as easy to catch as (pardon the pun) shooting fish in a barrel. Their popularity has a lot to do with numbers. They live in lakes, rivers, and the ocean.
Fall is actually a great time of year for bass fishing, for both the fisherman and well.... Unless you’re “catching and releasing”, I guess it’s not so great for the fish.
I’ll start with the obvious. For most, Fall is a reprieve from the Summer heat. Also, less bugs. Anyone is more likely to enjoy sitting on the water for a few hours when they’re not constantly sweating and swatting at stinging pests. Sounds like an amazing time whether you’re casting a reel or not, huh?
Onto the bass fishing...
The temperature of the water becomes cooler, which makes the fish more active. Just like humans, when we’re more active, we burn more calories. As a result, we get hungry and eat. The same goes with fish. In a somewhat frenzied state of hunger, they’ll bite just about anything!
There were a few different suggestions as to how to find the bass. Just get to know your body of water. The spots you frequent in the Spring are the same spots you should revisit in the Fall.
Naturally, you should go where their food is hanging around. Bass will eat just about anything. If they can fit it in their mouth, they will eat it. They have been known to eat anything from tiny minnows to lizards to small mammals. If motivated properly, they will even eat another bass! More than likely though, schools of small fish are a good indicator that bass may be lurking.
Natural foliage is another food group for our fine, finned friends. There is another advantage for Autumnal angling! Fallen leaves, especially under the cover or shade of the tree, will attract your target.
Bass are also known to congregate around “cover”. Cover is an object that sticks up from the bottom of a lake or river. It can be a tree stump, piling, a dock, or a log.
There are conflicting points regarding water temperature which makes my last point a good rule of thumb. Go to an area of shallow water that is near a deep area. The bass will hang around the shallow area foraging for food but will head to the deeper water when the temperature changes too rapidly. The temperature in deep water usually stays consistent while the shallow water increases and decreases quickly.
Don’t just take my word for it. Heck, I’m still learning myself! Click below for a couple of helpful and informative websites.
Now that you’re in the fishing frame of mind, why not take a look at some new fishing boats? Gift-giving season isn’t too far away! (hint hint)
Discover Boating
Take Me Fishing
Apparently, Fall isn’t your last chance of the year until Spring to chase bass. If you’re game enough to brave the tundra, give ice-fishing a try!
Bringing the family? Read Fishing Is Fun For the Whole Family for some tips.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Best Stadium For Boatgating
EverBank Field (Jacksonville, FL)
With its relatively warm weather year round, many football fans skip the highway and take to the waterway on game day. Stadium cheers can be heard throughout Metropolitan Park Marina on the St. Johns River, which is walking distance to EverBank Field. The marina offers nearly 80 slips that can accommodate boats up to 80 feet. The annual Gator Bowl and Florida-Georgia game held at EverBank Field offer college football fans the chance to get in on the boatgating fun.
For the Captain: Metropolitan Park Marina’s boat slips are open to the public, but on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit JaxParks.com, at least a month before game day, to reserve a slip. For daily dockage rates, contact the Jacksonville’s dockmaster at 904-630-0839.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
How To Take A Great Picture of Your Boat
Gorgeous shimmering water, a clean sleek boat, sun rising over the horizon – every boat lover wants that perfect picture of their boat. But capturing that ‘perfect picture’ is easier said than done.
First, consider what exactly you’re looking to take a picture of. Your boat, obviously. But do you want to take a picture of it while docked or do you prefer a friend on another boat take a photo of you driving offshore? Maybe you want both. Either way, once you’ve established a plan, there are some other very important things you need to consider.
Lighting is everything
The best time to take photos of anything, especially a boat in glistening water, is in the early morning or late evening. In the summertime this is usually around 7-7:30am and 6:30-7:30pm. You can take semi-decent photos at anytime if there is overcast. If you think you’re going to defy the laws of the sun high in the sky at lunch time though, you are sadly mistaken, my friend. Once the sun has risen it creates harsh light and shadows. It also reflects off of the surface of the water which creates many unwanted shadows across your boat.
When taking a photo of your boat, make sure the sun is always positioned behind it or at an angle from the boat. This illuminates your boat and also guarantee’s that it isn’t in a direct sunlight position (again, harsh light is the worst when taking photos). This is also true for when you’re taking photos of people on board – always make sure the sun is behind them. Avoid using a flash if possible as it can cause a glare on the side of your boat.
If you’re shooting with a DSLR camera (not a point and shoot), make sure your photo isn’t overexposed by checking the histogram. It’s better to make your photo darker than lighter – you can fix underexposed photos easier than you can fix extremely overexposed photos. Also, make sure you know how to use your camera. Learning how to shoot in manual mode before you try to take amazing photos of your boat will be quite helpful.
The Best Angle and Position
Don’t be scared to get creative and wild with the angle in which you’re taking a photo. Standing on a dock taking a photo of your boat head level isn’t going to cut it – you won’t be able to catch the details and the curves in the body. Try standing on a chair or ladder, or even squatting or lying down to get a few low photos of your boat by positioning the camera in a low position and pointing the camera upward (capturing the bottom to the top of your boat). Standing beside the boat at an angle (front to back) also creates a nice feel to the photo.
Don’t forget that there’s more to a photo than just your boat. Offsetting your boat to one side or the other in the viewfinder creates a dramatic effect and adds layers to the photo. You can also use this time to capture a beautiful sunset or other boats in the distance. There is beauty in depth.
Capturing Details
Don’t forget about the details on your boat such as the reel on your favorite fishing pole, the gauges on your dash, or even something as simple as an old rope lying in the corner. All of these things are part of your boat and your love for it. Detailed and abstract photos not only make unique hangings for your wall, they also help you capture memories. You’ll be able to look back and smell that salt water air, feel mist against your face, and remember the exact sunset on that evening….all by looking at the photo hanging in your den.
You can take perfect photos of your boat, whether you’re using a point-and-shoot camera or a more complicated DSLR camera. When in doubt, you can always hire a professional to do it (and they might even consider bartering a session for a boat ride). In any case, remember to get out of the ‘norm’ and shoot at different angles. Don’t shoot in harsh sunlight. Have a friend take photos of you in the middle of the lake while you’re cruising around with your family. Or capture the essence of that gorgeous memorable sunset in the background. Remember, you’re not just taking a cool picture of your boat, you’re taking a cool picture of your boat while making memories that will last a lifetime.
Do you have any pictures of your boat that you just love? Share them with us on our Facebook page or Google+ page.
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