Gear Tips

If you find yourself breaking off a lot of fish, quickly scan your rod and line a little more closely.

Tip #1- Your line may simply be old. Fishing line tends to stretch, fray and dry out over time. As a rule of thumb, line should be replaced every year.

Tip #2 -But don’t overlook your line guides. An often unnoticed cause of line wear, guides can develop cracks and nicks, causing minor cuts and frays. A simple test for this problem is to take a Q-tip and twirl it along the inside of the guide’s eye. If any cotton sticks on the eye, you know an imperfection has developed and the eye should be replaced. Before you start, be sure the eye is dry and clean and check out every guide.

Boat Smart

Safety First - You probably agree that your safety and the safety of other boaters precedes all other things when out on the water.
Tip #1 - Whether it’s 18 or 40’, tour your boat for any newcomers and identify all critical points; especially additional life preservers, fire extinguishers, the first aid kit and your VHF radio.
Tip #2 - If you’re a guest, ask for a quick orientation. You will feel more comfortable and in the case of emergency, you’ll be less likely to panic knowing those few things you pick up in a five minute walk around.
Tip #3 - If you’d like to drink, always make sure a capable, experienced driver does not. Ensure that he/she has the wheel and knows the boat before taking your first sip.