Two Boats Sink After Being Hit By 10 Boats 3/7/07

According to one local boating enthusiast, the boats were moored but broke free as a result of many years of neglect to moorings offshore from Burgoyne Reserve.

The owner of Anchorage Marina, Terry O’Hare, said it was a problem waiting to happen.

Parks Victoria owns and manages Port Phillip and Western Port bays where the 3,000 boat mooring field is located.

The yard manager at Hobsons Bay Yacht Club, Sonia Butler, said she knew of about six derelict boats that were likely to break free in a storm. "Lots have been derelict for up to 30 years. Unfortunately, we have a number of boats that need to be taken off the moorings," said Butler.

"Parks Victoria are trying to ensure all the moorings are looked after, but unfortunately legislation meant they didn’t have the power to do a lot about it.

"But that’s now been changed, which means over the next couple of years, moorings will improve and everybody on a mooring will have to have it serviced regularly," said Butler.

Even heavy ground tackle wears through surprisingly quickly and needs to be checked every spring, and gear in doubt must be replaced. How often is your mooring checked, or those of the boats to windward of yours?

Oldest U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Retired After 65 Years 3/7/07

"In a world where the average naval vessel is considered old at 10 to 15 years of service, ‘Storis’ has lived five or six lifetimes," said Rear Adm. Arthur E. Brooks, commander of the Coast Guard 17th District, Alaska. The Coast Guard announced Feb. 9 that the 65-year-old ship will be transferred to California to be temporarily stored and maintained until a decision is made on her final disposition.

"I am hopeful cutter ‘Storis’ will become a museum, where a new generation of people around the world can learn (her) colorful history, as well as the stories of the courageous Coast Guard men and women who served aboard this ship," Adm. Thad Allen, commandant of the Coast Guard, said in a release.

The cutter's seven decades of accomplishments include patrolling the North Atlantic during World War II; conquering the Bering Sea delivering medical supplies to isolated villages in the Alaskan territory, and ending the 450-year search for the Northwest Passage by establishing the deep draft channel route for shipping across the top of North America in 1957 - the same year "Storis" became the first U.S. ship to circumnavigate North America, the Coast Guard said.

Construction on "Storis" began in a Toledo, Ohio shipyard in July 1941. The 230-ft. cutter was launched in April 1942 and commissioned Sept. 30, 1942 as an ice patrol tender.

"Storis" crews, Brooks said, have boarded 7,500 vessels, saved 250 lives, kept 25 vessels from sinking, assisted 100,000 people and traveled 1.5 million miles.

"Storis'" most recent patrols were in the Gulf of Alaska and the Bering Sea conducting fisheries enforcement and search and rescue missions. The Coast Guard said "Storis" is a Scandinavian name taken from the Eskimo word "sirorssuit," meaning "great ice."

Since 1991, "Storis" has been the oldest commissioned cutter in the Coast Guard fleet, referred to as "Queen of the Fleet." Her hull number 38 is painted in gold on the ship's bow just forward of the distinctive red stripe signifying a U.S. Coast Guard vessel.

With the decommissioning of "Storis," Coast Guard cutter Acushnet will become "Queen of the Fleet." Acushnet is homeported in Ketchikan and patrols primarily the Gulf of Alaska. Acushnet celebrated her 63rd birthday Feb. 3.

--A report from The Associated Press was used in this story.

Earn a Degree on the 660’ Oceanliner "Scholar Ship" - Or, Born 50 Years Too Soon 3/7/07

The 660-ft. ship can accommodate up to 600 undergraduate and graduate students. She features 389 staterooms capable of accommodating 778 students and faculty, as well as 416 crewmembers. The goal of the program is to provide students with a culturally diverse academic and living environment.

Many highly respected international universities have contributed to the development of the "Scholar Ship," including the University of California, Berkeley, Macquarie University in Australia, Fudan University in China, Tecnologico de Monterrey in Mexico, Al Akhawayn University in Morocco, University of Ghana and Cardiff University in the United Kingdom.

Applications for the program's September voyage are due by April 30. The cost per 16-week semester will be approximately $20,000. Scholarships will be available to students based on their academic merit and financial need.

According to the website for "The Scholar Ship" all course credits will transfer. If you would like to enroll your child, or maybe do some post-graduate work yourself, go to their website by clicking here. http://www.thescholarship.com/

American Boat Builders & Repairs Assoc. Gives Awards 3/7/07

These awards recognize individuals and companies from the boatyard and repairer industry for their excellence throughout the year. Awards were given in five categories for each recipient’s performance in 2006.

The Dennis Snow President’s Award-given annually to the individual or organization who makes a significant and lasting contribution to improving the state of the boatyard industry-was presented to Steve Kitchin of New England Institute of Technology (NEIT) in Warwick, Rhode Island, for his organization’s continuous high level of professionalism within the marine service industry. NEIT is honored by ABBRA as a model for others in the industry to emulate.

ABBRA’s Award of Excellence or ABBRA’s "Boatyard of the Year," awarded to the service or repair yard that demonstrates excellence in all facets of business through commitment to customer relations, quality management, and positive vendor and employee relations, was given to Keefe Kaplan Maritime Inc. in Richmond, California, and accepted by Paul Kaplan.

The Excellence in Safety and Environmental Practice award was given to 3M and accepted by Janice Politowicz. The award is given to service facilities that have made significant, long-term progress in offering a clean, safe, and healthy environment for its customers and staff.

The Excellence in Technology award recognized Townsend Bay Marine in Townsend Bay, Washington. The award recognizes the service or repair facility that has developed or applied an advanced or innovative technology system or procedure. Townsend Bay Marine received this award for its continued implementation of advancing technologies in composite construction. Townsend Bay Marine’s CFO David King accepted the award.

The Commitment to Training Award was given to the Burr Brothers Boats Inc. whose commitment to employee education is a priority. Accepting the award was long-time employee Chris Bryant.

The American Boat Builders and Repairers Association (ABBRA) represent over 250 boatyards, repairers, and associated industries in the United States and abroad. As the hub of the boatyard/service-facility network, ABBRA provides its members with the opportunity to exchange information and coordinate efforts to handle matters of mutual concern through open discussions, quarterly newsletters, an annual conference, and training seminars throughout the United States.

Rubber Tires Do Not A Reef Make 3/7/07

The idea was simple: Create new marine habitat and alternate dive sites to relieve pressure on natural reefs, while disposing of tires that were clogging landfills. Decades later, it's clear the plan has failed miserably. Little sea life has formed on the tires. Some of the bundles bound together with nylon and steel have broken loose and are scouring the ocean floor across a swath the size of 31 football fields. Tires are washing up on beaches. Thousands have wedged up against the nearby natural reef some 70 ft. below the sea surface, blocking coral growth and devastating marine life. Similar problems have been reported at tire reefs worldwide.

Gov. Charlie Crist's proposed budget includes $2 million to help dispose of the tires. Broward County will manage the work on-site, and military divers will use the effort as part of their annual training missions at no cost to Florida. A month long pilot project is set for June. The full-scale salvage operation is expected to run through 2010 at a cost to the state of about $3.4 million.

In decades past, tire reefs were created off coastal states and around the world from Australia to Africa.

"We've literally dumped millions of tires in our oceans," said Jack Sobel, a senior Ocean Conservancy scientist. "I believe that people who were behind the artificial tire reef promotions actually were well intentioned and thought they were doing the right thing. In hindsight, we now realize that we made a mistake."

No one can say with certainty why the idea doesn't work, but one problem is that, unlike large ships that have been sunk for reefs, tires are too light. They can be swept away with tides and currents from powerful storms, and marine life doesn't have a chance to attach. Some scientists also believe the rubber leeches toxins.

Offshore Super Series National Championship Follows the Money Inshore -Very Inshore. 3/7/07

The Offshore Super Series [OSS] National Championship, featuring 50 of the fastest boats in the world competing head to head for the checkered flag, will be coming to The Lake of the Ozarks for the first time Sept. 28-30.

Merlyn Vandervort's Horny Toad Entertainment Complex (at the 7.5-MM in Lake Ozark) will serve as race headquarters for the event, which received a $25,000 boost from the Tri-County Lodging Association Feb. 15. Vandervort said the level of competition and accompanying exposure it will bring to the Lake of the Ozarks, combined with the attempt to extend the tourist season "one more weekend," are his motivations for bringing the event here.

"I've been working on getting it here for the better half of the last year," Vandervort said. "They [OSS] are excited about the lake and all we have to offer their event. This is like NASCAR on the lake."

Many of the details are still being worked out, but Vandervort said there will be about six different categories of boats racing throughout the three-day event. The six-mile race course consists of about 16 laps he said.

Karen Medders, TCLA board chair, said the event could overtake the Shootout in popularity and exposure for the Lake of the Ozarks. During discussion at Co-Mo Electric in Laurie, she and other tourism officials drew comparisons between the OSS event and the Shootout, a two-day event held at the 21-MM in August that draws as many as 4,000 spectators.

Missouri Water Patrol Captain Matt Walz confirmed last week that a regatta application has been filed for the last weekend in September in that area of the lake. He said the application is pending the receipt of the proposed course, buffer zones for spectators and other safety issues.

Vandervort said the Lake Ozark and Osage Beach Fire Districts have been extremely helpful and supportive in providing logistical and security support for the planned event.

This new race is expected to draw thousands of spectators to Vandervort's Horny Toad Entertainment Complex, as well as thousands who will be able to view the race from the water and land along the three-mile course.

Vandervort, who estimates he's invested $225,000 of his own money to get the event here, said he's attended the event at other watercourses in past years. Network television coverage is still being negotiated by OSS, he said, but it's certain there will be a great deal of interest.

Zeus wins Motor Boating Magazine’s “Best of the Year” award in Advanced Propulsion category. 3/7/07

In the February issue of Motor Boating Magazine, the editorial staff wrote a segment on winners from the various categories. The following comments appeared relating to Zeus: “Engineered to simplify the boating experience while maintaining safety, Cummins MerCruiser Diesel’s (CMD) Zeus power package consists of tunnel-mounted steerable pod drives controlled by a joystick and coupled to inboard -engines. A significant technological achievement, the system delivers better acceleration, top speed, maneuverability and fuel economy than conventional inboard configurations. Its twin counter-rotating, stainless steel, rear-facing propellers with through-the-hub exhaust are protected by a skeg and designed to shear off at impact. The “torpedoes” leave the water relatively undisturbed so that the props grip with -maximum efficiency. As a result, both high-speed and low-speed handling are dramatically improved. Trim tabs are integrated into the pods.

Zeus-powered boats track true and respond instantly to helm commands. At low speeds, Zeus steers with a joystick that directs pod thrust for precise maneuverability. The driver is actually able to crab the boat sideways or pirouette in a tight circle. But the advanced technology doesn’t stop there. An intelligent station-keeping system reads GPS coordinates and directs thrust to keep a boat in position without the driver having to touch the wheel or controls—that’s a very handy feature to have when waiting at a busy fuel dock or for a berth to become available.”

CMD President Scott Patrohay received the award from Motor Boating’s Peter Janssen on February 15th in Miami. Patrohay said “this award goes to a very dedicated and highly motivated team of professionals from Cummins MerCruiser Diesel, Brunswick and Mercury Marine. This is another great example of the benefit of our joint venture. We can engage cross functional resources in order to design, develop, engineer and market a product that will enhance the boating experience for our customers.”

Background information on Zeus:

Zeus is a highly advanced propulsion system that delivers a proven level of safety; up to 30% better fuel economy, unsurpassed handling at high and low speeds, vessel systems integration unparalleled in the marine industry and increased power density up to 550 horsepower.

Culminating 15 years of development, building upon technology advancing designs, Zeus incorporates a familiar looking, yet totally new pod with counter-rotating stainless steel, rear facing propellers and a through hub exhaust. Independent vectoring for each pod delivers dramatically improved high-speed handling. Docking is easier than ever. These steerable pods, along with an advanced joystick control system deliver precise turning and tight maneuvering that is far superior to bow thrusters. In addition, Skyhook Electronic AnchorTM, a component of our highly advanced Precision PilotTM system keeps a Zeus equipped vessel on a fixed heading within a tight area, even in strong currents and windy conditions.

The pods are designed to produce horizontal thrust so the full power of the engines are utilized to drive the boat forward, unlike standard inboard shafts that push a boat upwards. Counter-rotating propellers feature increased blade area, larger gear ratios, no side forces and minimized cavitation. The results of the advances are impressive, up to 15% faster top speed and up to 30% increased fuel economy at a higher cruise speed.

With up to 550 horsepower, the Zeus 3500 and Zeus 3800 offer more power density than comparable pod systems. An Integrated trim control system, an accessories water system, and SmartCraftTM networking also provide more integrated components than other pod systems.

Built on the foundation of the already quiet and clean running Quantum engines, Zeus makes boating even more pleasurable. Because the pod drives employ counter rotating propellers and are mounted on a large rubber grommet, gear noise and vibration are significantly reduced for an even quieter and comfortable ride. Already low engine exhaust noise is nearly eliminated by venting the emission through the propeller hubs where the water flow takes them far back into the wake.

Design engineers stress the rear facing orientation offers a much greater level of safety versus forward facing propellers. In the event that the pod strikes debris or bottom, the gear case and skeg protect the propellers. Most floating objects will be deflected downwards by the keel and skeg away from the propellers. Should the unit come into contact with a substantial object, the skeg is designed to shear below the torpedo, minimizing damage to the drive and costly repair bills. In the event of a catastrophic collision above the depth of the keel, the gear case is designed to shear away and remain water tight, so that there is no compromise in hull integrity.

Some of the most notable benefits from Project Zeus for boaters will be experienced at the helm. Around the dock, our intuitive joystick control eliminates anxiety. Underway, the automated trim control feature simplifies operation. Skyhook Electronic AnchorTM allows hands free control of the boat when maintaining position away from the dock. All of this technology was developed with a goal of simplifying the boating experience while maintaining safety.

Mercury Introduces 2 New Verado Engines at Miami Show 3/1/07

Mercury Marine introduced two additions to its flagship Verado outboard line - a 200-hp in-line four-cylinder and a 300-hp in-line six-cylinder. Verado is the world's only production supercharged outboard.

The six-cylinder 200, 225, 250, 275 and new 300 hp models feature 2.6L displacement, four valves per cylinder, a charge-air cooler and electronic boost bypass control. The 135,150, 175 and new 200-hp Verado models are built on a 1.7L, four-cylinder platform. Other than the engine blocks, the base engines of both are the same, with dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, and the bedplate-and-long bolt design often seen in Formula 1 race cars. This state-of-the-art concept yields maximum rigidity and durability in a compact package, according the Mercury.

Verado features SmartStart and has electronically controlled sequential multi-port fuel injection for smooth, efficient operation. With SmartStart, all you have to do is turn the key and release. The engine will automatically start itself.

The six-cylinder Verado models feature standard electro-hydraulic power steering. All four-cylinder Verado engines are shipped with the Mercury Universal Steering Cylinder, which can be used with the optional electro- hydraulic power steering or Mercury's bulletproof hydraulic system.

SmartCraft Digital Throttle & Shift is standard on the four-cylinder and six- cylinder models, which allow Verado to deliver an exceptionally smooth and responsive, engineered driving experience and automotive-like handling.

200-hp In-line Four-Cylinder
The new 200-hp in-line four-cylinder Verado is the lightest four-stroke outboard on the market, says Mercury. The right combination of weight and power makes this outboard perfect for its targeted applications, which include freshwater aluminum, saltwater coastal bay and flats boats, as well as dual engine offshore boats.

The new 200-hp four-cylinder Verado features new graphics to its cowl. It is available in 20-inch (L) and 25-inch (XL, CXL) versions. Left-hand rotation models are available with 25-inch shafts only.

This Verado runs on standard 87 octane fuel and has the standard Verado three-year limited warranty and three-year corrosion warranty.

300-hp In-line Six-Cylinder
Recognizing that more muscle is required as outboard-powered boats become larger, Mercury designed the 300-hp in-line six-cylinder Verado.

Like the new 200-hp in-line four-cylinder, the 300-hp Verado features special styling and graphics to the cowl. It is available in 20-inch (L), 25-inch (XL, CXL) and 30-inch (XXL, CXXL) versions. Left-hand rotation models are available with 25 inch and 30-inch shafts only.

Premium fuel is recommended for the 300-hp Verado to achieve the highest performance and to produce the very best fuel efficiency. However, the 300-hp Verado is designed to run on standard 87 octane fuel. The 300-hp Verado features the standard Verado three-year limited warranty along with a three-year corrosion warranty.

Mercury Racing Introduces 1200-hp Engine Package for “The Masses”3/1/07

At Miami, Mercury Racing introduced the all-new HP1200 SCi sterndrive engine package. The engine, featuring the dry-sump six drive, is the most powerful consumer sterndrive ever built by Mercury Racing.

The HP1200 SCi shares all of the “mild-mannered running qualities”, says Mercury Racing, as its HP850 SCi and HP1075 SCi counterparts. The HP1200 SCi gets its energy from the required high-octane race fuel. The spokesman for Mercury Racing’s skunk works says we should “think of it as a street legal race engine available to the masses.”

Like the HP1075 SCi and HP850 SCi, the HP1200 SCi features the Mercury exclusive propulsion control module (PCM) 07 microprocessor, which is the brain behind the brawn. Based on a high performance 557-cubic inch V-8 cylinder block, the HP1200 SCi features a pair of Lysholm twin screw super chargers with multiport fuel injection (two injectors per cylinder). This combination provides sport boaters with turn-key starting, great overall running quality and incredibly smooth idle quality for a high horsepower big block, says the company.

The engine's 800 RPM idle speed makes shifting into and out of gear “smooth as silk”, say the Mercury gear heads, “and makes docking much easier with less chance of stalling and other low-RPM drawbacks normally associated with big horsepower.”

Mercury Racing engineers designed the HP1200 SCi for ease of installation. Every component is strategically placed with an end package that is as compact as possible. The twin screw compressors, which require less power than traditional roots blowers, sit on a corrosion resistant charge air cooler and induction system, designed exclusively by Mercury Racing. Their low- profile design helps to reduce overall engine height and center of gravity.

Supercharger induction noise levels are controlled by twin carbon fiber inlet resonators. Twin flame arrestors act also as air filters, keeping the engine's air induction system clean and efficient. In addition, supercharger boost is variable. A boost bypass control valve, electronically activated by the PCM 07 microprocessor, continuously adjusts the amount of boost needed to provide consistent horsepower.

The company says “under optimum ambient conditions, the boost bypass control valve will open to adjust for the lowest boost required to obtain 1200 horsepower. The PCM 07 computer also enables individual cylinder control. This ability to optimize fuel and spark timing independently for each cylinder enhances engine running quality, performance, fuel economy and durability, they say. The use of eight independent ignition coils, one per cylinder, helps eliminate spark plug fouling and misfire.

The HP1200 SCi comes equipped with the digital SmartCraft® Controller Area Network system, a network of sensors that proactively monitor engine functions. SmartCraft links power, controls and internal and external sensors to provide precise data on all boat functions at a glance. The system monitors a variety of vital engine functions including fuel flow, fuel range, fuel used, and RPM, along with water depth, trim angle, water pressure and battery voltage. Boat functions monitored include fuel tank levels and water and waste tank levels. The CAN enables the PCM 07 to communicate data to the optional Mercury Racing SystemView - Race Edition monitor and SmartCraft® System Link gauges for real-time data on multiple engine and boat functions.

The PCM 07 also drives the exclusive Engine Guardian™ System. Engine Guardian monitors engine functions to forewarn of possible problems that could lead to engine damage. This "smart" technology not only detects and alerts the boater of a problem, it processes the data and reduces power to the maximum, safe level that allows the boater to continue operation. Engine Guardian also has the ability to proactively help prevent engine overheating by sensing not only engine temperature but cooling water pressure as well.

By sensing water pressure and temperature, the system can provide advanced warning to the PCM 07 control module, which then reduces engine power before temperature related engine damage takes place. The HP1200 SCi features a dry-sump lubrication system. Three scavenge pumps and one pressure pump keep oil off the crankshaft, reducing friction for enhanced power and performance. A remote oil tank separates air from the oil and gives it time to settle, providing the pressure pump with a constant supply of oil. The oil tank also reduces foaming, improving overall oil lubrication even in the most adverse sea conditions, says Mercury.

Custom sealing systems, developed by Mercury Racing, enhance engine durability. The use of corrosion resistant engine components and treatments improve engine quality and protection against the corrosive saltwater environment.

A thermostatically-controlled, high-velocity cooling system uses a combination of a circulating pump and sea pump to keep the engine at an optimal operating temperature and peak performance. The system utilizes a three-stage sea pump. Two stages feed cooling water to the engine block and cylinder heads while the third stage feeds the charger air cooler. A new bronze alloy sea pump design enhances protection for boats used in the corrosive salt water environment.

A high-output, 65-amp alternator provides increased power at idle and full power. The increased charging capacity makes running a variety of electronic accessories worry free.

The HP1200 SCi is built from the bare block to completion in Mercury Racing's four-cycle Race Shop. Technicians use specialized components throughout the engine, from the heavy-duty valve train to the custom fabricated steel oil pan. Engine packages come standard with a heavy-duty BAM Cyborg dry- sump transmission and the legendary Mercury Racing dry-sump Six drive.

New Mercury Racing and engine model graphics adorn the carbon fiber top cover and valve covers. The HP1200 SCi comes with a new universal engine mount for enhanced engine installation fit and finish. Polished pulleys and clear anodized hose fittings put the finishing touches on what is the ultimate in high performance sterndrive marine propulsion.

The HP1200 SCi is accredited by Mercury Racing's T.E.A.M. (Total Engine Application Management) initiative. The standardized T.E.A.M. process ensures proper installation of the engine with factory specified components, providing maximum performance along with unmatched quality and durability.

The HP1200 SCi will only be sold to accredited OEM boat builders and dealers who agree to the terms of the T.E.A.M. initiative. We’ve just run out of bandwidth, so if this was not enough information for you, call Fred at the Mercury Racing shun works.

Mercury Marine Introduces New 40-hp EFI Four-Stroke Jet Drive3/1/07

Mercury Marine announced today it will soon begin production of a new 40 horsepower electronically fuel-injected (EFI) Four Stroke Jet outboard. The new 40 hp EFI Four Stroke Jet Drive, based on the Mercury 60 hp EFI Four Stroke outboard, makes it possible to boat in shallow lakes, streams and rivers typically inaccessible with a standard propeller-driven outboard.

Unlike some competitive jet outboards, says Mercury, the Mercury 40 hp EFI Four Stroke Jet outboard is designed to fit on a 20-inch transom, making it an easy replacement for the standard outboard. The 40 hp EFI Four Stroke Jet Drive outboard features state-of-the art EFI technology. This sequential multi-port system uses an injector for each cylinder resulting in instant turn-key starting, unmatched smoothness and instantaneous throttle response in all types of atmospheric conditions, Mercury says.

This design provides improved fuel economy, greater range and smoother running quality than equivalent two-stroke models. Superior fuel efficiency is provided by a microprocessor controlled EFI, sequential multi-port fuel delivery system. In addition, these engines feature exclusive Mercury technologies, including Engine Guardian and SmartCraft. Engine Guardian constantly monitors and protects you're your engine by taking corrective action when needed. SmartCraft Integrated Technology provides digitally accurate engine performance and diagnostic information.

Mercury 40 EFI Four Stroke Jet Drive models will be available through authorized Mercury dealers beginning this summer.

The ABYC Recognizes Dedicated Boatmen with Awards3/1/07

The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) announced the recipients of its annual awards during its 2007 Annual Meeting and Reception held on Wednesday, February 14, 2007 in Miami, FL. These awards were presented to recognize the significant work of individuals and companies in furthering ABYC's core mission of boating safety.

Skip Burdon, ABYC President commented, "For ABYC, our value is the sum of our members, who everyday commit themselves to ABYC's mission. With these awards, we pay tribute to those individuals who represent the spirit of volunteering and a commitment to making our industry the best it can be."

The ABYC Service Award - Mr. Craig Scholten, Director of Product Compliance, Four Winns/Genmar Holdings, Inc. This award is presented each year to an ABYC member who has served the Council over a long period of time, through active participation on committees, Boards or other volunteer venues, in a manner that materially benefits the goals of ABYC. Craig has been an ABYC Technical Board member since 2004 and a committed member of several PTC's (specifically Hull and Deck Structures and Fuel and Ventilation). Craig is dedicated to the standards writing process, and recently opened the Four Winns manufacturing and testing facility to ABYC for work on a USCG grant, providing materials, product and staff support for a weeks worth of testing. Craig has been a supporter of ABYC education by promoting ABYC's industry training and certification, specifically at Four Winns. In addition, Craig has presented on behalf of ABYC at various industry events and meetings. He is both ABYC Standards Accredited and ABYC Certified in Marine Systems, and has advanced his way up to his current position, where he is responsible for maintaining product compliance/certifications of Four Winns products, with additional product compliance support to Genmar and all its boat brands.

ABYC Leadership Award - Mr. Phil Cappel, Chief of the Recreational Boating Product Assurance Division of the United States Coast Guard's Office of Boating Safety. This award was established to honor an individual that has provided outstanding leadership in support of ABYC, industry and the ABYC mission, and best exemplifies the leadership qualities of ABYC's past presidents. Phil is a shining example of leadership in action, having not only served on several volunteer ABYC technical subcommittees, he is also a member of ABYC's Technical Board of Directors, and has been responsible for taking the lead in assuring USCG participation in all aspects of the ABYC standards writing process.

Phil continually represents the USCG and the U.S. boating safety interests in domestic, as well as international meetings. Phil oversees a staff of seven who share his passion for boating safety. Phil's leadership is marked by the ability to assemble diverse groups of people, together to find common ground and solutions on matters that affect recreational boating. Phil was responsible for the launch of the USCG and industry cooperative effort to address the carbon monoxide and propeller injury avoidance efforts. It is through these kinds of active efforts to connect people and build community for the safety of the recreational boater that Phil received this award.

Lifelong Service Award - Mr. Jim Ellis This award was created to recognize someone for their service to the marine industry and their profound contributions to boating safety, design and/or the advancement of recreational boating. Jim brings an impressive resume of marine experience to not only ABYC, but the entire boating industry. Jim not only serves as a past Chair of the ABYC Board of Directors but he has also served in numerous other leadership positions on ABYC Board committees. In addition to his work with ABYC, Ellis has also held executive leadership roles with the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) and was a member of the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF).

In 1982, Ellis was named director of the BoatU.S. Foundation before being appointed to BoatU.S. President in 2003. He is credited with growing the non-profit organization into a leader in boating safety and clean water advocacy. He is the past Chairman of the NSBC and was inducted into the NSBC Boating Safety Hall of Fame in 2004 for his leadership and support of boating safety. Jim has also been credited with being a visionary in the field of boating safety through his work in the early years of the Internet by bringing online boating safety courses to the national boating community and recognizing the need for bringing more comfortable, inflatable life jackets to the market. His personal experience in both the power boating and sailing arenas have allowed him to help develop services that continue to bring convenience, value and safety to the boating lifestyle. Jim recently elected to retire as President of BoatU.S., after 24 years with the Association.

The ABYC Bunzl Boating Safety Award Goes To…3/1/07

Also at the Annual Meeting, the ABYC Foundation presented the Bunzl Boating Safety Award to announced two recipients of the Bunzl Boating Safety Award during the 2007 ABYC Annual Meeting and Reception held on Wednesday, February 14, 2007 in Miami, FL. Established by the ABYC Foundation, this award may be presented in recognition of singular acts of great personal sacrifice or heroism in the saving of life or vessel at sea, or for extraordinary contributions to the safety of the boating public. The 2007 recipients are:

Captain Mike Stewart, owner and President of TowBoatU.S. North Miami - On April 15, 2006, Captain Stewart's quick and courageous response to a radio distress call saved an injured Sea Tow Captain who had sustained a serious head injury, which resulted in extensive bleeding and violent erratic behavior while in the Atlantic Ocean. Without concern for his personal safety and without hesitation, Captain Stewart assisted with the rescue of the fellow Captain. He rendered essential medical aid and the man's life was saved as a direct result of his heroic actions.

Joe Morris, a Maryland teenager who saved the life of a fellow sailor during a highly competitive weekend regatta off the coast of Brant Beach, NJ. During a 420 Mid-Atlantic regatta, the teenager momentarily looked down and spotted a girl's inert body lying face down in the waves, wearing a life jacket, while racing a two-man sailboat. The 17-year old immediately jettisoned thoughts about the race and headed his boat upwind, which brought the boat next to the girl. Joe grabbed her and brought her aboard as she was fading into and out of consciousness. Joe's rapid response and unselfish deeds helped save the girl from uncertain tragedy.

Burdon, President of ABYC and Secretary of the ABYC Foundation said, "The ABYC Foundation is honored to be able to recognize the extraordinary efforts and life saving actions of these two individuals. Both Joe and Captain Stewart sacrificed their own safety to come to the aid of fellow human beings in danger on the water, and their actions are to be commended."

BWI & NMMA Recognize Seven Marine Innovations3/1/07

Seven marine manufacturers were honored this for innovative achievement by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Boating Writers International (BWI) at the Miami International Boat Show. Winning companies received their 2007 Miami Innovation Awards during the Miami Media Breakfast, held Thursday, February 15 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

The Innovation Awards, organized by NMMA and judged by BWI, recognize those products that best meet the following criteria: innovative distinction from other products currently being manufactured; benefit to the marine industry and/or consumer; practicality; cost-effectiveness; and availability to the consumer within 60 days of award receipt.

In the Consumer Electronics & Software category, the judges selected the CannonLink by Johnson Outdoors. The CannonLink module enables any Humminbird fishing system to simultaneously or individually control the operation of up to six Cannon downriggers. The user can automatically deploy or retrieve outriggers, monitor downrigger depth off the bottom and view temperature at depth and speed through water. “The only thing it doesn’t do is put the bait on the hook and drop it over the side,” says judge Duncan McIntosh, publisher of Sea, Go Boating and other marine periodicals.

An Honorable Mention in the Consumer Electronics & Software category was also presented to the GB 60 Glass Bridge System by Simrad.

The One Touch Winch Handle from Lewmar was the winner in the Consumer Installed Non-Electronic Hardware category, according to the judges. By simply squeezing the locking mechanism anywhere on the shaft, the user quickly engages or releases the winch handle. “To be able to improve on something so simple, and that’s been around for decades, is quite a feat,” says a judge. “Priced right and well designed, it’s a clear winner.”

In the Consumer Personal Gear category, the Innovation Award was presented to the Windmate 350 from Speedtech. The Windmate is a comprehensive wind and weather monitor that gives digital wind speed, wind direction, a digital compass, temperature, barometric pressure, humidity and an audio storm alarm. “Lots of features in a compact package,” commented judge Mundy. “It’s a complete weather station bundled in one ergonomic unit.”

The No Profile Boat Lift by Way Marine Design took home the Innovation Award in the Daysailing Equipment category. An alternative to the conventional metal boatlift, the auto-leveling No Profile 18K Platform Boatlift creates extra dock space and provides easy access for boat servicing and maintenance. “Aesthetically clean and completely out of the box thinking, it makes for easy launch and easy load,” according to judge Barron.

Glacier Bay’s Isle Runner was the winner in the Inboard & Outboard Cruisers category. The 30-foot Isle Runner combines a patent pending hull design, surface piercing rails and “Super Chines” to provide a soft and dry ride. Features include a unique sunken offside galley, port side entry, convertible helm and dual bait well locations. “Reduced rolling, increased stability and tracking in rough seas are just some of this unique boat’s features, which also offers great livability and fishability,” says judge Rudow.

In the Runabouts & Fishing Craft category, judges presented the Innovation Award to Chris-Craft for its Catalina 23. The Catalina 23 Center Console offers good looks and a serious fishing platform all in a family-friendly sport boat. “The blind mounted T-top ensures no toe stubbing, while the roomy head provides lots of comfort,” judge Prochazka notes. “It’s loaded with features for a serious day of fishing,” echoes scribe Rudow. “Now you can cast with class.”

Finally, the SP Cruiser by Island Packet Yachts was awarded the Innovation Award in the Sailboats category. The SP Cruiser combines good sail keeping with all the comforts of a trawler. Two cockpits, push-button sail control with the StoWinch sheeting system and a dry interior helm connecting to the forward cockpit are just a few of the unique features of this design. “This boat raises the bar on convenience and comfort in order to keep new and seasoned boaters sailing longer,” Prochazka says.

Digital Antenna’s New Global Marine Cellular Antennas3/1/07

Worldwide use of cell phones and other wireless devices has created an enormous demand for solutions to enhance coverage and performance. Known for its high performance antenna and cellular communications technology, Digital Antenna introduces a new 9dB gain marine cellular antenna designed for use with all North American, European and Asian cell phones operating on world-wide frequencies including 850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz and 2.1 GHz. The new PowerMaxTM Global Marine Cellular Antennas are the first ALL BAND marine cellular antennas and are designed and manufactured for all cellular systems including third generation (3G) and WCDMA technology.

Digital Antenna’s new multi-band omni-directional antennas are available in lengths of 18”, 30”, 4’ and 8’. For maximum cellular range of up to 50 plus miles, use the Global Marine Cellular Antenna with Digital Antenna’s North American DA4000 (850/1900 MHz) or Euro/Asian DA4000E (900/1800 MHz) direct connect amplifiers. “By designing an antenna for use with all cellular bands, customers can easily switch between using the DA4000 and DA4000E amplifiers without changing antennas,” stated Joanne Johnson, Vice President of Operations. In the company’s tradition of using high quality materials, the new Global Marine Cellular Antennas feature powerful brass radiators, soldered connections, stainless steel ferrules and a high-gloss urethane finish. All antennas are made in the USA, hand-assembled and tuned for maximum performance.

Go to their website, click here.

Riviera Yachts Selects Sea Safe Extended Warranty Coverage3/1/07

SeaSafe Group, LLC, the industry’s leading marine warranty and service contract company which specializes in component and comprehensive coverage for marine manufacturers and retailers recently added Riviera Yachts of the Americas to its growing stable of clients. Riviera Yachts of the Americas has an extensive network throughout the Americas representing Australia’s largest and most awarded builder of quality Flybridge Convertibles, Sport Cruisers and Sport Yachts. The company has been committed to boatbuilding excellence for more than three decades exporting boats to discerning buyers in over 30 countries around the globe. Riviera Yachts has formed alliances with some of the most well-known names in boating around the world to produce a range of world-class products.

SeaSafe Group provides marine manufacturers a vehicle for issuing customized coverage in the quest for a stem-to-stern product. With over 25 years of experience, SeaSafe Group’s administration has over 150 employees dedicated to customer service in a state-of-the-art environment for administering and paying claims promptly. SeaSafe Group provides manufacturers with the kind of comprehensive warranty coverage customers have been demanding for years.

“After a thorough evaluation process we found SeaSafe Group to be the most capable of delivering extended protection products measuring up to the quality and reliability of Riviera’s product itself,” said Riviera Yachts of the Americas President Mike Scruggs. “SeaSafe Group also demonstrated advanced technological capabilities with regard to administration, reporting and marketing for this service.”

“We are excited about this new partnership with Riviera Yachts of the Americas,” said SeaSafe Group Senior Vice President Jamie Gaskins. “They are a forward-thinking company, and recognize the services that SeaSafe Group can effectively and efficiently provide the company while simultaneously providing increased support and satisfaction for the company’s growing network of customers.

For more information call Jamie Gaskins at 904-219-3423, or go to Sea Safe’s website. Click here.

Industry’s “First Black Box” Forward-Looking Sonar3/1/07

Interphase, maker of affordable phased array LCD depthsounders for the recreational marine market as well as the serious cruiser, sailor and fisherman, introduces the industry’s first “black-box” forward looking sonar with both VGA and video outputs. The new SE-200B Sonar EngineTM adds scanning sonar capability to today’s popular multifunction and large panel displays and easily turns most video-capable chart plotters, radars, and other multifunctional displays into full-featured forward-looking sonars.

Designed to work with video-enabled multifunction displays from companies such as Raymarine, Garmin, Navman, Northstar, Simrad and Furuno, the versatile SE-200B Sonar Engine goes an important step further, and also works with large VGA flat panel displays including products from VEI, Nauticomp, Big Bay Technologies, Computech, Vartech Systems and many others – even large inexpensive consumer computer monitors.

Interphase’s new SE-200B Sonar Engine includes the phased array transducer(s), a small module that houses the sophisticated electronics and a keypad which can be located close to a remote display. For custom installations, individual components can be selected, including an optional Interphase color VGA display with integral keypad. The system can easily support multiple displays and keypads and owners can even mix several video, VGA and Interphase displays using a single SE-200B Sonar Engine —all operating at the same time, says the company.

The SE-200B Sonar Engine scans a forward-looking beam both vertically and horizontally over a 90 degree segment using a single dual axis thru-hull transducer or two transom transducers. In the vertical mode the beam scans from the surface ahead to the bottom below and is particularly useful navigating unfamiliar waters, detecting coral, rock pinnacles and other submerged objects directly ahead of the vessel.

In the horizontal mode the beam scans horizontally over a 90 degree segment from 45 degrees to port to 45 degrees to starboard. In shallow waters, the horizontal mode aids in the location of underwater channels, openings in reefs, underwater rocks and helping direct the captain to steer away from dangerous situations. In deeper water, the horizontal scan is ideal for locating and tracking schools of fish and bait and other submerged objects.

The SE-200B Sonar Engine also operates as a traditional down-looking color depth sounder with a maximum depth range of 600 feet. In this mode, the operator will get a detailed view of bottom depth, contour, composition and fish. This view can also be displayed on a simultaneous split screen with either vertical or horizontal scanning.

Inside the new SE-200B Sonar Engine a powerful processor sends and receives phased signals to the transducer elements millions of times each second. These signals are processed and a complete display picture is actually created within the SE-200B Sonar Engine and then simultaneously sent out, as both composite video and high-resolution VGA pictures. By creating a complete picture in the sonar engine, rather than sending raw sonar data to the display, the SE-200B Sonar Engine does all the work, and doesn’t bog down the multifunction display with the time consuming tasks of coordinate conversion and complex picture creation, says the company.

Although small and lightweight, the SE-200B Sonar Engine sports an impressive list of important features such as Auto Gain, Auto Range, Keel Offset, Shallow and Range Alarms, Scan Sector Adjustment, and a unique Transducer Test feature. To help identify targets and improve overall display resolution, the 12 color display shows different target strengths as unique colors. For extra connectivity, the SE-200B Sonar Engine includes NMEA 0183 input and output ports to connect to GPS and temperature sensors or to output digital depth to other NMEA devices. An optional loud external alarm can also be connected to the SE-200B Sonar Engine.

Using transducers with no moving parts, the SE-200B Sonar Engine uses a focused 200 khz beam for both transmitting and receiving. The narrow transmit beam directs the power where you need it rather than indiscriminately throughout the surrounding water—resulting in maximum range and resolution. Interphase was the first to develop phased array technology for recreational forward-looking sonars and today there are over 35,000 forward looking vessels, cruising throughout the world ….with Interphase sonar units.

For more information, go to Interphase’s website for an incredible underwater experience, click here. http://www.interphase-tech.com/main.htm

“VesselView”™ Promises to be an All-Ship Monitoring System3/1/07

Mercury Marine revealed its all-new VesselView SmartCraft display as part of its booth opening at the Miami International Boat Show. VesselView was one of more than a dozen new Mercury products unveiled when the show opened its doors Feb. 16 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

SmartCraft is Mercury's exclusive control-area-network-based (CAN net) system that gives boaters an unprecedented level of information about their boats. SmartCraft links the propulsion control module on each engine to an advanced computer network so the driver can access all manner of data such as speed, engine rpm, cooling water temperature, water depth and fuel consumption via SmartCraft gauges and displays.

VesselView is different than previous SmartCraft user interfaces in that it has an advanced five-inch color screen that is direct-sunlight visible. It can monitor SmartCraft Networked peripheral items such as a generator, sounder, HVAC and inverter/charger. It is also fully compatible with the do-it-all NorthStar 8000i unit, which serves as fish finder, chart plotter, radar and infotainment.

VesselView is all-new hardware, but it fits the same hole and footprint as Mercury's venerable System View interface. VesselView also features more buttons than previous interfaces, so it's very user intuitive, even in rough weather or higher speeds. As with all SmartCraft products, VesselView has been subjected to brutal testing. By the time it goes into production in the latter part of 2006, it will have undergone thousands of hours of validation, which far exceeds the industry norm for electronics, says Mercury.

To find out more visit the SmartCraft website. Click here.

NMMA Presents Two Consumer Electronics Awards3/1/07

The National Marine Manufacturer's Association awarded two Consumer Electronics category awards, one each to Simrad, for their WR20 Remote Commander, and to Brunswick New Technologies Marine Electronics, for their Northstar 8000i.

SIMRAD's WR20 allows wireless control from anywhere on the vessel. It also includes a VHF Marine Band radio which the captain can carry with him at all times.

NORTHSTAR's 8000i offers video, navigation, radar display, and CD player, as well as a network bridge to instrumentation networks such as the Mercury SmartCraft system.

Raymarine Introduces a New Color Dome Camera 3/1/07

With its low profile wall or ceiling mount, the petite black dome-shaped camera is the ideal choice for monitoring indoor and enclosed areas, such as a boat's wheelhouse, salon or engine room.

Similar to the CAM100, the CAM50 is a plug-and-play device that is compatible with Raymarine's E-Series High Definition Multifunction Displays and G-Series MarineMonitors, enabling boaters to view the camera's output in a full screen or alongside their radar, chartplotter, and fishfinder.Additionally, up to four cameras can be connected to construct a total view of the vessel and its surroundings, allowing boaters to build a robust video observation system that can monitor activity taking place anywhere on the boat.

"The CAM50's sleek and unobtrusive design allows boat owners to monitor activity below deck without compromising the boat's decor," said Terry Carlson, president of Raymarine. "Many of our customers invest a substantial amount of time and money to achieve a desired look, and we're happy to provide them with products that offer the latest safety technology with minimal impact to their design."

In addition to the new CAM50, Raymarine has introduced new reverse image variants of the both the CAM50 and CAM100 cameras. Designed for use as aft- deck monitoring and backup cameras, these new models keep images on the correct side of the screen versus flipping them from left to right as is done with a normal camera. The new reverse image cameras are ideal for monitoring blind spots, decks, engine rooms, salons and crew members.

The CAM50's features include excellent color reproduction, high quality Sony CCD (380 TVL), manual pan and tilt adjustments and a highly sensitive IR sensor for use in low light conditions. The technology is available in NTSC and PAL video output versions, offering extremely high resolution.

For more information about Raymarine call 1-603-881-5200 or visit http://www.raymarine.com.

Miami Boat Show Yields Higher Sales for Many Companies 3/1/07

Fountain Powerboat Industries, Inc. (AMEX: FPB), a leading manufacturer of high performance sport boats, fish boats and express cruisers, announced that it recorded sales of approximately $20 million during the show. Fountain had boats in the convention center, outside the convention center, and at the Sea Isle marina.

"This has been a tremendous show for Fountain and the most successful boat show in our history," said Chief Executive Officer Reggie Fountain, Jr. "Show attendance was down from last year, but traffic to our booth was spectacular with this year's sales increasing approximately 17 percent over last year. Not only did the new 35' Lightning and 38' Sportfish Cruiser ramp up our sales during the show, but we sold six 48' Express Cruisers -- our top-of-the-line boat.”

The Miami Boat Show proved to be a great success for Azimut Yachts, Italian world leader in the luxury yachts doing over $500 million in sales the last time we looked. The Italian shipyard attended this important international event for the 24th year running. More than 60 yachts were sold during the Boat Show, overtaking last year’s record, according to the company.

"This year’s sales trend at the Miami Boat Show," said Federico Martini, CEO of Azimut Yachts, "confirms the appreciation shown for our products by our American clientele… In fact, over the last ten years, more than 400 yachts have been delivered there, placing Azimut as the top non-American shipyard for sales."

In order to best serve its client base, Azimut Yachts has 11 dealers in North, Central and Latin America.

Azimut Yachts’ next stop will be the Dubai Boat Show from the 13 to 17 March 2007 where its new flagship of the open range, Azimut 103S, will be presented.

Tiara Yachts announced the third consecutive year of increased traffic and robust sales during the 2007 Miami International Boat Show.

Robert Slikkers, President of Tiara Yachts, reported, "A preliminary review of our results shows that visitors to our booth increased by more than 30% this year, led by a larger than ever number of new domestic customers. Many people came to see a sneak-peek of our 5800 SovranTM which will launch this spring. Others came to take a closer look at the Open and SovranTM models we had on display. Most importantly customers came to the show to buy, which is demonstrated by the strong order volume we received this year.”

Tiara Yachts had large displays at both the Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center and the Miami Beach Convention Center. A key feature of their exhibit was a preview of their 5800 SovranTM, the new flagship for the company that will be introduced later this year. Click here to see tested Tiaras.

"It was an exceptional show for us," said Michael J. Scruggs, president of Riviera Yachts of the Americas. When we spoke to Mike on Friday night at his owners’ party at the Bentley Hotel -which Riviera rented in its entirety - the company had sold 12 new boats, but when all of the dust had settled, Riviera ended up with $25 million worth of orders, the company said. Scruggs praised his dealers for getting over 200 Rivera owners to the show. “We had a great show but we worked for months to make it successful,” he said.

Bertram Yachts was standing tall at its display on Collins Avenue, part of the huge Ferretti Group display. Don Jones, VP of Marketing and Sales said that were having their best Miami show since he joined the company many years ago. "Usually we close customers a week or two after the show, "Jones said, "but this year people are giving us checks right in the booth."

ABYC Elects New Officers and Names Board 3/1/07

The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), the organization responsible for setting the standards to which American boatbuilders are expected to meet or exceed in order to be a member of the NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association), elected new officers during its annual meeting at the Miami show.

During the meeting, Past Chair Dennis Graham of Teleflex Morse, Inc. officially introduced the incoming officers:

Chairman of the Board - Bill Drake. Bill is Vice President Engineering at Marinco-AFI and has been with Marinco since 1988. Bill serves on the Executive Committee, and he is a member of ABYC’s electrical project technical committee, as well as a member of the Nominating Committee. He is also a speaker at ABYC’s Electrical Systems in Boats seminar. Bill is a member of the National Electrical Code Technical Correlating Committee, past member of the National Electrical Code, Code Panel 5 and 17, member and past chairman of the NEMA, Wiring Device Section’s Technical Committee, and member of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors.

Vice Chairman of the Board - Gerry Douglas. Gerry is Vice President and a Principal of Catalina Yachts and has been employed with Catalina since 1976. Gerry most recently held the position of Treasurer of ABYC and chair of the Business & Financial Planning Committee. He also serves on the Executive Committee, Nominating Committee and is on the Technical Information PTC. Gerry is also a member of the Industrial Designers Society of America and the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers. He actively sails his own boat and pursues other sailing and volunteer activities.

Technical Chairman of the Board - Dave Marlow. Dave is the Director of Product Integrity for the Brunswick Boat Group. Dave is a Past Chair of the ABYC Board of Directors and is a current member of the Board's Executive Committee and Nominating Committee, as well as Chair of the Technical Board and a PTC member. He currently serves as a presidential appointed member of the USCG's National Boating Safety Advisory Council. Dave is a member of the Recreational Craft Sectoral Group for the development of ISO standards, the Boat Owner's Association of the USA, Society of Automotive Engineers, Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers and a member of the Board of Directors for IMCI. He is a past Lippman Award recipient and a contributing member to ABYC's TC 188 Technical Advisory Group.

Treasurer - Dan Gribble. Dan Gribble is the President of Boatswain’s Locker and a lifelong marine enthusiast who has raced sailboats his entire life. Dan graduated from UC Berkeley with a BS in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Naval Architecture. He also has an MBA from UC Irvine. When Dan assumed ownership of the family business, he changed the focus of the company to the wholesale distribution and service of marine propulsion. He is a sponsor for various inner city boating programs and fishing tournaments.

Incoming Board Directors include:

Barry Acker, President/CEO of The Landing School of Boatbuilding and Design.

George Bellwoar, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Miami-based Perko.

Thomas J. Marhevko, VP, Engineering Standards for the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) in Chicago.

Returning Board Directors include:

Joe Charles, Charles Industries

Jim Ellis

Dennis Graham, Teleflex Morse, Inc.

F. Steven Herb, Nelson, Hesse

Jack Hornor, Marine Survey & Design

Rich Kolb, Volvo Penta of the Americas

Eleanor Mariani, State of CT - Dept. of Environmental Protection

Jeff Melby, Genmar Holdings, Inc.

Tim O’Connor, LEM Products, Inc.

Bill Parlatore, Passagemaker Magazine

Lorenzo Pollicardo, UCINA

John Sima, Sima Marine

Chris Washburn, Washburn’s Boatyard

Jack Westerbeke, Westerbeke Corporation

"Pod-Drives" Are Being Embraced By a Wide Cross Section of Builders, Designers, and Customers. 2/21/07

We heard it again and again all over the show this year -- "Pod-drives are here to stay and they are going to be standard equipment on all boats where they are appropriate." That means right now we are seeing them on mid-range cruising boats that were V-drive or inboards from about 32’ to 45’, but clearly that window will widen both up and down as drive units become available for larger and smaller diesel engines, and gasoline engines later. The scuttlebutt on the dock is that they will be ready for gas engines in a couple of years, maybe sooner.

Introduced two years ago by Volvo-Penta, their IPS (Inboard Performance System) with its pod attached to the bottom of the boat and its forward facing propellers, was revolutionary. But the boating consumers were slow to warm up to the concept. That is now changing. The talk on the dock is how easy the IPS system with its joystick is to dock and maneuver a boat. It makes everyone look like a professional captain – and wives and girlfriends love it. Now they don’t have to lug lines and fenders when coming into port. With an IPS drive and joystick, that’s now man’s work – along with anchoring – and the damsel on the boat will gladly take the helm.

With about 20 minutes of practice almost anyone can get the hang of it. It also eliminates the need for bow thrusters on small and mid-size boats which have been getting increasingly popular over the last 5 years, as have stern thrusters on boats over 75’.

MerCruiser has announced its version of the concept, called the Zeus drive which is paired with a Cummins/MerCruiser diesel. The company says they will be available to ship production units for 2008 models.

But right now your only choice for 2007 is the Volvo-Penta IPS, and having tested several boats over the last 12 months powered with this equipment, all of our test captains praise the system. More and more companies are designing new boats specifically for the IPS drive, and at least one company - Formula - has re-tooled their 45 Yacht to take full advantage of Volvo-Penta’s new technology.

We interviewed Formula’s exclusive designer, John Adams, at the Miami Boat Show and he said, "If we had our way we wouldn’t build any more boats with V-drives or inboards. These pod-drives push the boat faster with less horsepower and are lighter. The joystick makes docking easy for anyone."

Both Volvo-Penta and Cummins/MerCruiser claim that their drives increase fuel efficiency by "up to 30%" and give the boat "as much as" 15% higher top speed." But even if performance improvements are only half of those numbers, most people will be elated, particularly since the price is the same as standard drives.

Consumers are getting used to the notion of Volvo-Penta’s forward-facing props, and if they are good enough for the Queen Mary II, one might suppose that the design is more efficient. Cummins/MerCruiser is banking that consumers will prefer their more standard aft-facing prop pod. Since the Zeus drive requires pockets or tunnels and have a more restricted field of movement, it will be a long time before there is anything close to an apples-to-apples test.

Yamaha Surprises Miami Boat Show with a New 350-hp Outboard Engine. 2/21/07

While most of the engine makers had a new engine or two to show, Yamaha took a huge bow for its new 350-hp, four stroke EFI engine. And when we say "new" we mean, designed from scratch. According to Phil Dyskow, President of Yamaha, the idea of building a 350-hp unit came to him while fishing with Eddie Smith on the latter’s new, 36'Grady-White. Dyskow said that he hopped the first plane he could to Japan and the rest is now history. Designing and tooling a new engine is not easy or cheap, and in all likelihood Yamaha has invested $40 million or more into the unit, say some industry experts. While some parts from other Yamaha engines could be used, Dyskow says that there are over 600 completely new parts in the engine.

The company says that it has 45% more thrust than their 250-hp outboard engine. Company spokesmen said that they could easily envision the new 350s on boats up to 40 feet. With the increased reliability of four-stroke engines and electronics, perhaps these engines will also be used as efficient singles, replacing twin 200-hp motors.

Dyskow says that the engines will be available for commercial shipment this summer.

USCG Announces Plans to Tighten Security for Coastal Ports and Shipping. 2/21/07

At the annual meeting of the Boating Writers International held at the Miami Boat Show, a representative of the US Coast Guard put the boating industry on notice that it has been tasked by the Department of Homeland Security to begin measures to make ports and shipping more secure from terrorist threats from small vessels. The Coast Guard will be having hearings this spring and summer to receive input from the interested parties.

Some of the measures being discussed are: universal licensing, requiring transponders on boats, restricting pleasure craft to certain channels of navigation, and having restricted areas near ships. Obviously the attack on the USS Cole on Oct. 12, 2000 which killed 17 sailors and 2 suicide bombers in the harbor at Aden, Yemen is instructive.

None of the options on the table are satisfying from either a "freedom of the waterways" nor from a "security" standpoint. The new rules, whatever they are, will try to navigate between a police state and a fools-in-paradise scenario. We urge you to get involved in this discussion this year as boating in coastal areas is going to change.

NMMA Takes Tough Stand Against Non-ABYC Compliant Boat Builders 2/21/07

Tom Dammrich, president of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) announced at the show that in the future the organization will bar builders from membership who do not comply with ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) standards. For years the ABYC, which is made up of people in the industry respected by their peers for being experts in different aspects of boat construction, has set standards for construction of pleasure boats that go far beyond those required by the USCG. Until two years ago those standards were “optional” or not required by any regulatory authority or even the NMMA.

Historically, some boat builders religiously followed all of the standards, some followed standards that suited them and discarded ones that were too expensive, too much trouble, that they didn’t agree with, or that they felt were not rigorous enough. Other builders followed tougher standards in certain areas, using DNV rules of those promulgated by organizations in Europe.

Two years ago the NMMA started an "ABYC Certification" program. The certification means the following according to the NMMA: "The NMMA program certifies that the design meets the standards as outlined in the NMMA Certification Handbook. The manufacturer has the responsibility of assuming that production units are manufactured in compliance with the certified design."

In the end, you must rely on the integrity of the builder to build all of its boats, all of the time, to ABYC standards.

Last year, BoatTEST.com announced that it would not test any boats that did not have NMMA-ABYC certification. BoatTEST.com Editor Capt John Wenz has been deeply involved with the ABYC and we will keep you posted as the standards evolve.

ABYC standards are intended for small to medium-sized pleasurecrafts, and the scope of the standards does not include motoryachts over a certain size. In most cases quality-builders of those boats meet even stricter rules. European-built boats by well-known companies are built to ICCOMIA standards.

To view a list of all of the builders which the NMMA has certified as complying with ABYC standards, click here.

NMMA Dealer Certification Program Tops 400 and is Growing. Buyers are Now Given a "Bill of Rights" by Certified Dealers. 2/21/07

Over 426 US boat dealers have enrolled in the NMMA-sponsored Dealer Certification Program and 161 have completed it. The NMMA-sponsored workshops teach best dealer practices. While some builders such as Sea Ray and a few others have had programs for years to upgrade the buying and service experience for consumers and there have been some private companies offering this training for dealers, the industry association has never been as aggressive as it is today in upgrading dealer skills. The stated goal of the certification is to upgrade the consumer experience to help keep people in boating once they get in. Click here to read the NMMA’s Consumer’s “Bill of Rights.”

New MerCruiser "Vazer" 100-hp Sterndrive Introduced 2/21/07

Mercury MerCruiser will begin production of Vazer -- a first-of-its kind sterndrive system designed for some boats traditionally powered by outboards -- in March.

Vazer is a 100 horsepower sterndrive engine built with a compact design. It uses an innovative and patented approach to reduce engine height by tilting the engine to 50 degrees, allowing it to fit under seats, platforms and decks of a variety of boats, including pontoons boats, fishing boats, and runabouts. The unique design of Vazer allows boat builders to utilize more space for passengers and gear, and provides improved access to the water compared to traditional sterndrive or outboard engines, according to MerCruiser.

"Vazer will revolutionize the boating industry," said Kevin Grodzki, president of Mercury MerCruiser. "This sterndrive system will enable boat builders to design boats in configurations previously unimaginable."

Anti-Roll Gyro Promises to Reduce Rolling by 50% 2/21/07

Bertram Yachts, a division of the Ferretti Group, had the Mitsubishi "Anti Roll Gyro" (ARG) on display at it’s floating booth in the in-water show at the Collins Ave. venue during the Miami Boat Show. While the product has been out for a couple of years, the news is that Bertram and Ferretti engineers have given it their blessing is significant. Bertram VP of Sales and Marketing and industry veteran, Don Jones, says that the device not only works, but keeps the boat incredibly stable in most sea conditions.

Ferretti engineers are so impressed with the product that they offer the ARG units as optional equipment on most Rivas, Ferrettis and Pershings, and it comes as standard equipment on the largest models in each line.

According to Mitsubishi, not only does the ARG reduce rolling 50%, while under way, but it also reducing rolling at anchor. Since the gyro does not have fins or anything extending through the skin of the boat it does not cost a knot or two in boat speed from the drag caused by fin stabilizers. The company says that it can be installed in all sizes of pleasure boats, both new and as a retro fit. A typical installation will require two units in the stern and one in the bow.

However, the ARG’s are neither light nor inexpensive; just one unit for a 46-footer weighs about 640 pounds and a single unit for a 112-footer weighs about 3,700 pounds. Despite their weight, the units are surprisingly small.

"Earthrace" the Wave Piercing Cummins-Powered Boat is Now Fueled with North Carolina Poultry Fat 2/21/07

"Earthrace" is ready to try to break the world record for circumnavigating the globe in a powerboat and using only renewable fuels. The vessel has visited 40 U.S. cities, promoting fuels like biodiesel and raising awareness about the use of sustainable resources.

Owner-Captain Pete Bethune, a Kiwi, and his three-man crew allowed one and all to walk through "Earthrace" for a $5 donation during the Miami Boat Show. There was a constant stream of people through the narrow carbon fiber and Kevlar vessel during the show.

Circumnavigating the globe represents the pinnacle of powerboat challenges, and at 24,000 nautical miles, is also the world's longest race. The current record of 75 days was set by British boat "Cable & Wireless" in 1998.

"Earthrace" aims to smash this record by completing the voyage in less than 65 days, and will mark the first time in history that an official UIM Powerboat record will be attempted using renewable fuel. It is a showcase of environmentally-friendly technologies such as low-emissions engines, non-toxic anti-fouling paint, and efficient hull design. It is also one of the coolest looking boats ever imagined.

The vessel left Miami on the Tuesday after the show and is currently in the Bahamas making its way to Puerto Rico where it will be on display Feb 24-25th. Current plans call for the record attempt to be started on March 6th from Barbados.

And for those of you who believe what these plucky New Zealanders are doing will make a small difference, you can help them by making a small donation. Go to their website to follow their day by day progress around the world. They plan on being back in Barbados April 28th. Go to Earthrace.net.

Boat Racing Champ Bill Seebold Sr., Dies 2/14/07

The Associated Press reports that Bill Seebold, Senior died on February 1st at the age of 91. A national boat racing champion, he was affectionately known as “Grandpa”.

Seebold was a skilled machinist who built his own boats and engines and specialized in propeller modification when he began a six-decade family racing dynasty. He retired from racing in 1960, but still served as crew chief for his son, Bill Seebold Jr., and later two grandsons. All three have won national and world championships.

Glass, Kevlar, Carbon, Carrots? 2/14/07

As vegetables go, it is probably one of the world's most unassuming. But the humble carrot could be set to revolutionize the world of manufacturing thanks to the skills of two Scottish scientists.

They recently unveiled an environmentally friendly material made from the vegetable, which could become one of the biggest innovations since the invention of carbon fiber, more than 30 years ago. The material is made by combining the natural nano-fibers found in carrots with high-tech resins to enable the molding of durable components into various shapes and strengths. Marketed under the trade name CurranTM, the product has been designed to replace carbon and glass fibers in everything from fishing rods to car parts.

If Popeye were still around, would he make the switch from spinach?

Honda Marine Recognizes Outstanding Dealers 2/14/07

In recognition of outstanding sales and customer service, forty top Honda Marine dealers will be awarded a six-day, five-night Caribbean cruise aboard Celebrity Cruise Line’s “Celebrity Century” as part of Honda’s “Points to the Stars” dealer incentive program.

Designed to recognize exemplary dealers throughout Honda Marine’s 1,000-plus dealer network, the promotion included an emphasis on sales and customer satisfaction as reported through the NMMA’s Customer Satisfaction Index.

For a detailed list of winners and program specifics, please visit www.hondamarinestars.com.

Man’s Best Friend? Maybe Not 2/14/07

The Orlando Sentinel reported that police helped rescue an Ocoee man from Starke Lake late Thursday, February 8th, after his dog knocked him out of his boat, then rode around him in circles as he cried for help.

The accident took place at about 7:50 p.m., as Robert Bates, 46, of Ocoee was preparing to head home after an evening of fishing.

Bates had just taken off his flotation device when the dog pounced on the boat's throttle, tossing the man overboard.

By the time officers arrived, the night sky was so dark they couldn't see Bates. A good Samaritan had already found the shivering man, his boat and his dog, and brought them all back to shore.

According to a police spokesman, Bates was in no mood for talking after his near-drowning. The only thing he said ..... was "that dog couldn't drive the boat."

Another Twist on the Access Issue 2/14/07

With state government pushing hard to guarantee open public access to tidal waters, New Jersey's marina industry is pushing back against proposed rule changes that boat yard operators say could open their gates to anyone at all hours. According to the Asbury Park Press, the Corzine administration introduced ambitious new public waterfront access rules Nov. 6 that seek to build on the state's recent courtroom successes. Known as the "public trust doctrine" it’s an ancient assertion that all people have a right of access to the waterfront.

Marina owners and state Department of Environmental Protection officials differ in their interpretations of the new rule requirements. The marine trades group says its reading of the proposal shows the 10-foot wide public access easement would be required at all their facilities, but DEP officials indicate that such specific dimensions are proposed only for certain regions. Likewise, marina operators worry that providing 24-hour access on some river walks could increase their security risks from theft and to guests sleeping on yachts.

Conforming to the updated public access rules would be required when marina owners seek permits to make improvements to their property. That might lead to a lot of dilapidated marinas in the years to come. Instead of imposing on these small business operators, perhaps the State of New Jersey ought to start by requiring that State and Municipal waterfront parks be open around the clock. Currently, those parks are generally padlocked at sunset.

Sharks Sink Shrimper 2/14/07

Captain Roger Schmall told the News-Press of Fort Myers that a group of sharks had been slamming into the "Christy Nichole's" hull for four days. One of them, a 14-foot bull shark, broke the boat's propeller shaft leaving Schmall and his crew of two adrift about 100 miles off the coast. They radioed for help, and another vessel picked the crew up about two hours later. Schmall remained aboard his vessel to pump water out while the other boat took the "Christy" under tow. The pumping apparently worked for a couple of hours, but the six-to-eight-foot waves eventually took their toll on Schmall and his boat.

He abandoned ship, and the boat he had owned for 12 years eventually sank.

Maine Boatbuilders Planning to Market World Wide 2/14/07

ELLSWORTH- A study commissioned by Maine Built Boats, Inc., a trade organization created to promote Maine boatbuilders on a worldwide basis, paints a striking picture of the size and complexity of the state’s boatbuilding industry, and makes several recommendations for improving the industry’s health. Among those recommendations is to "improve the quality of the workforce" available to Maine’s boatbuilders.

According to a report recently prepared by Planning Decisions, Inc. (PDI) of South Portland, in 2006 Maine’s boatbuilding industry, broadly defined, had sales of $355 million and employed some 2,500 workers. Excluding businesses characterized as marinas that primarily provide dockage, fuel and services for boaters, the boatbuilding industry had sales of $300 million and some 2,100 employees.

According to PDI, 73 Maine companies engaged primarily or exclusively building commercial or recreational boats. In 2006, those businesses had sales of $260 million and payrolls totaling $65 million. Another 39 businesses were engaged primarily in boat repair work. They had sales of $40 million and payrolls totaling $13 million.

Not surprisingly, Maine’s boatbuilders are a diverse lot. Only eight companies, among them The Hinckley Co. in Southwest Harbor and Morris Yachts in Trenton, have as many as 50 employees. Representing only 11 percent of all boatbuilding businesses in the state, those eight large companies provide 70 percent of the jobs in the industry.

By contrast, nearly half of Maine’s boatbuilders have fewer than five employees. These small businesses provide some 84 boatbuilding jobs, about 5 percent of the total. In the aggregate, 70 percent of the state’s boatbuilders employ fewer than 10 workers.

As might be expected, the PDI report disclosed that small boatbuilders had smaller sales than their larger counterparts, but a small increase in size seems to generate a big increase in business. According to PDI, an “average” builder with fewer than five employees had annual sales of $270,000. Depending on that builder’s market, that might represent one or two boats a year and not much profit. Average wages in these small shops, where many owners pay themselves “little or no salary” are $27,000 annually and are “an indication of the precarious nature of many of these operations.”

At the top end of the state’s boatbuilding industry, the picture is completely different. According to PDI, average annual sales at Maine’s eight largest boatbuilders (those with 50 or more employees) were some $25.3 million, and the average wage was $43,600. By contrast, boatbuilders employing 10 to 49 workers had about one-tenth the average annual sales, about $2.3 million.

Analyzing job data compiled since 2000, the PDI study concludes that, during the past six years, while employment at small boatbuilders has shrunk significantly, during the same period larger builders added more than 250 jobs. A closer look at the data leads “to the conclusion that Maine’s best hope for making boat building a growth industry lies in helping mid-sized builders grow into the 50+ size category and nurturing those already there to keep growing.”

Maine’s boatbuilders are just as diverse in the technologies they use. While the majority of companies appear to build primarily fiberglass boats, several boatbuilders produce steel or aluminum vessels, and several others build wooden boats, either with traditional techniques or using modern, cold-molded composite technologies.

The Maine boatbuilding industry has an enormous impact on the state’s economy. According to the PDI report, in addition to generating some $355 million in sales, the industry generates an additional $187 million in indirect and "induced" sales. On the wage side, the industry’s total impact on the state’s economy is some $160 million. The industry was also responsible for generating more than $25 million last year in state and local tax revenues.

Despite the apparent health of the Maine boatbuilding industry, PDI suggests that several steps are needed to improve its “vitality and prospects for growth” in the coming years. Foremost among those recommendations was to strengthen the industry’s "information base" so potential customers could more easily discover what Maine boatbuilders have to offer. The process would also let boatbuilders measure their economic and other performance against similar businesses, and encourage the development of “best practices” for the industry. Tied to this is another recommendation: to develop a coordinated marketing campaign for Maine-built boats.

The report also suggests that the Maine industry needs to develop some form of readily available business and financial management assistance for boatbuilders. This would be particularly important for smaller companies that don’t have, and can’t afford to hire, financial expertise.

Perhaps the most critical recommendation was to improve the quality of the workforce available to Maine boatbuilders. According to PDI, “Maine’s boat building industry will achieve substantial growth only if it can attract a steady supply of skilled workers." This involves a combination of improved high school outreach, better on-the-job training programs, and strengthened scholarship programs at schools such as the Boat School at the Marine Technology Center of Washington County Community College and The Landing School in Arundel .

15,000 Marinized GM Blocks Have Been Recalled 2/14/07

Last fall eight U.S. marine engine manufacturers recalled a total of at least 15,000 marinized engines with a dangerous safety defect that slipped by the world-famous QC department at General Motors. Unfortunately it is often hard to track down used boats as 2004 boats could have changed hands three or four times by now making it difficult to notify everyone particularly owners outside the U.S. – so if you know anyone with such an engine please notify them.

A recent issue of BoatUS magazine reported "that Volvo-Penta was the first to announce its recall of 1749 engines in early October. By mid-November engines recalled by MerCrusier totaled 11,183, Indmar products 998, Pleasurecraft Marine/Crusader 1005, and Kodiak, a small West Coast manufacturer, 57. Marine Power, Flagship Marine and Panther Airboat also initiated recalls…”

"GM product safety recall bulletin #06080 released in August 2006 explains that the fuel rail pulse dampener retainer clips on its fuel-injected 8.1L engines may fracture, allowing gas to leak,” reported BoatUS. According to the article “the retainer clips were not heat-treated properly during manufacturer and environmental conditions like vibration and corrosion can cause them to break.”

BoatUS said they were not aware of any boat accidents related to this GM-manufactured defect.

Baja's "Cutting Edge" 405 Performance to Debut in Miami 2/7/07

Visitors to this year's Miami International Boat Show will be introduced to cutting-edge technology aboard Baja's 405 Performance. She features Mercury Marine's innovative SeaCore, DTS and SmartCraft technologies and will be displayed in slip 218 of the Mercury Marine booth at the Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center. These Mercury technologies will be optional on all new Bajas.

"The combination of all three of these technologies is truly pushing the envelope," said J.R. Jenney, Baja's director of sales. "Baja is one of the first manufacturers to offer SeaCore. And the simultaneous incorporation of SmartCraft and DTS help take Baja to another level of both durability and precision."

The MerCruiser SeaCore System offers corrosion protection for marine propulsion systems which benefits bigger boats like the 405, because they tend to remain in the water between uses. In conjunction with Baja's focus on performance, Mercury's DTS (Digital Throttle System) provides unparalleled smooth, precise and effortless shifting.

SmartCraft links a boat's power and controls as well as internal and external sensors to provide accurate, up-to-the-second and comprehensive information.

"This 405 Performance features the latest technology in the industry," said Rob Parmentier, president of Baja Marine. "We are proud to work with Mercury Marine to provide our customers with even more precise and safe handling and even better performance."

For more information about the 405 Performance and the rest of the Baja full-throttle lineup, visit www.bajamarine.com. To see our test results on Baja’s lineup, click here. For more information about Mercury Marine's products, click here.

NYC Police Tickets Skiff for Running Red Light 2/7/07

According to New York City's traffic office, Russell Falkena ran a red light on Manhattan's West Side -- in his rowboat.

The 46-year-old resident of Westtown in upstate Orange County, NY, recently received a $50 traffic ticket in the mail for running a light in December. The notice included photographs of the vehicle and its license plate captured by traffic cameras that monitor Manhattan's intersections. It turns out the plate number on the ticket matches those on the registration for Falkena's aluminum rowboat, which he says hadn't left his yard in years.

But this West Side story has a happy ending. A city official tells the Middletown Times Herald-Record that the ticket will be dismissed.

America’s Cup Team Celebrates 20th Anniversary 2/7/07

It’s hard to believe that it was twenty years ago this past week that people all across the United States stayed up all night to watch a sailboat race. Back in February of 1987, skipper Dennis Conner and his crew sailed to victory aboard “Stars & Stripes” in Perth, Western Australia. The comeback victory of this underdog team bore a resemblance to the US Olympic hockey team’s “Miracle on Ice” and captured hearts and souls both in the US and around the world.

Twenty teams had gathered from around the globe "down under" to compete in what is considered to be the most significant sailing event in history. Never before or since have so many eyes been focused on a sailboat race. Cable TV’s sports network ESPN made its mark by broadcasting the event and was recognized through several media awards. Teams spent ten to twenty million dollars each to compete, yet this will go down as the last Corinthian, nationalistic event- the sailors on the victorious team earned a little more than ten dollars a day for their efforts!

The America’s Cup Series will again be sailed this summer in Valencia, Spain, hosted by a team from Switzerland. In order to compete on the playing field now, you’ve got to commit $100 million just to field a team. Why would any “sensible person” lose sleep over a sailboat race where the participants spend over half a billion dollars? Because our sailing brothers and sisters are not only losing their money, and their minds, they have also lost their sense of priorities.

Reasons Why Inboard/Outboard Powerboats Sink 2/7/07

An I/O’s weakest link is the delicate connection between the inboard engine and the outdrive unit, called bellows. “The use of bellows or boots — pleated, flexible rubber membranes — that run between the inboard engine and partially submerged outdrive to seal the transom where cables and shafts pass through have one weakness: a limited lifespan,” said Seaworthy Editor Bob Adriance. He says that bellows should be inspected annually — and more often in hot, sunny climates. “Any bellows that is over five years old is living on borrowed time,” said Adriance.

He adds, "Many boats have more than one bellows (driveshaft, shift cable, exhaust, etc.) any one of which has the potential to sink the boat. And if one shows wear, they all should be replaced.”

Here are the top reasons why I/O’s sink:

At The Dock:

1. (44%): Leaking bellows. A surprising number were attributed the small shift cable bellows.
2. (23%): Failed below waterline fittings, hose clamps, and melted hoses as a result of overheating.
3. (15%): Failed above waterline fittings. Heavy rains overwhelm cockpit scuppers.
4. (11%): Poor docking arrangements: Boats or outdrives that snag on docks.
5. (6%): Uninstalled drainplug.
6. (1%): Miscellaneous such as a cracked engine block.

While Underway:

1. (36%): Struck a submerged object such as rock or logs.
2. (24%): Failed below waterline fittings.
3. (20%): Leaking bellows.
4. (12%): Swamping.
5. (8%): Miscellaneous.

Seaworthy Magazine, January, 2007.

Bass Pro Shops Opens 39th Location 2/7/07

Fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts won't have to wait much longer to get a peek at the new 130,000-square-foot Bass Pro Shop in Portage, Indiana. The mega sporting goods retailer is slated to open its 39th location at 8 AM on Friday, Feb. 16.

"Its like the night before Christmas. It's like getting out of school that last day and throwing your papers up in the air kind of enthusiasm," said Bass Pro founder Johnny Morris.

The Portage store will be one of just a few in the Bass Pro Shops chain to feature a marina where customers can try out the company's signature line of Tracker fishing boats. A 200 seat restaurant, The Islamorada Fish Company, which incorporates the look and feel of the Florida Keys, will also open Feb. 15. It will seat 200 and include an outdoor patio, two fireplaces and a 12,000-gallon saltwater fish tank separating the restaurant from the retail store. See the results of our tests on TMC's fleet...

Click here for tested Tracker models.

Click here for tested Nitro models.

Click here for tested Sun Tracker models.

Click here for tested Tahoe models.

Boat Owners May Deduct Sales Tax 2/7/07

Thanks to action taken by Congress in December, tax filers who made a large purchase in 2006, such as a boat, may deduct state and local sales taxes paid if the tax rate applied to the boat was the same as the state's general sales tax.

"Some taxpayers may be confused because the usual extension of these provisions was not approved by Congress until after the IRS had already printed its forms in November for the 2006 tax year," said Elaine Dickinson, assistant vice president of BoatUS Government Affairs, in the release. "We've been hearing from our members that even their own accountants are unaware of the extension since it did not appear on the printed 2006 Schedule A (Form 1040).”

A notice on the IRS Web site, http://www.irs.gov/, outlines the so-called "extender provisions." It also lets taxpayers know that returns with these deductions will not be processed until Feb. 3 to give the agency time to incorporate the latest legislation into its processing systems for '06 returns. To get the deduction, filers must itemize their deductions.

"Taxpayers may deduct either sales taxes or state income taxes, but not both," said Dickinson. The deduction for state and local general sales taxes may be claimed on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 5, "State and local income taxes." Enter "ST" on the dotted line to the left of line 5 to indicate you are claiming the general sales tax deduction instead of the deduction for state and local income tax, according to the IRS.

For more on state tax deductions, download IRS Publication 600, which includes state-by-state tax tables, by going to the above link or by calling 1-800-829-1040, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays.

January 25, 2007- BoatU.S.

Boaters Make Better Lovers 2/7/07

According to a survey conducted by Discover Boating and Russell Research, boaters expressed a greater level of satisfaction with their sex life than non-boaters. “Being out on the water, relaxing away from stresses on land instantly sets the right mood for making a love connection," said sociologist and relationship expert Pepper Schwartz, PhD.

"Not only is the setting a mood- enhancer, but boaters are more active and exude confidence in their physical appearance, which is naturally going to be attractive to other active people.” The survey polled more than 1,000 boaters and non-boaters and compared their viewpoints on several quality of life aspects.

Specific to intimacy, participants were asked if they agreed with the statement "I am satisfied with the quality of my sex life.” Two-thirds of boaters (67 percent) agreed or strongly agreed with the statement, while only 58 percent of non-boaters held the same opinion. Of boaters who agreed with the statement, nearly a quarter (24 percent) strongly agreed with the statement.

Boaters also expressed greater satisfaction with their marriage. Seventy- five percent of boaters agreed or strongly agreed with the statement 'My spouse and I are happy with the state of our marriage,' compared to 70 percent of non-boaters.

The boost to a boater's sex life and the increase in marital bliss can be attributed to many aspects of the boating lifestyle,” says the Discover Boating press release. Boating offers unparalleled opportunities to relax and bond with the people who are close to you, whether you're just socializing or looking to make that special someone your first mate, says the release.

This ground-breaking research was conducted ass part of the NMMA’s (National Marine Manufacturers’ Association) "Discover Boating” campaign targeted to non-boat owners for the last 12 months.

Marina Cruises Across Lake 2/7/07

As reported in the Las Vegas Review-Journal this week, about half of Overton Beach Marina's docks and covered slips arrived at Temple Bar, on the Arizona side of the lake, at 4:30 a.m. The other half arrived at Callville Bay Marina about six hours later.

Overton Beach Marina was chased from the northern end of Lake Mead by the gradual decline in the water level. The move got under way at about 4 p.m. Friday under escort of park rangers in patrol boats. A fleet of 20 houseboats and a dozen smaller craft pushed the marina sections, the size of about 14 football fields, across the lake at an average speed of just over 1 mph. In one particularly tight spot, the 520-foot-wide marina section cleared the canyon walls by a matter of inches.

Raymarine Rolls Out SmartPilot for Volvo’s IPS 2/7/07

Employing Raymarine’s proven AST (Advanced Steering Technology), the SmartPilot IPS delivers razor sharp course keeping and smooth course turns, in conjunction with the Volvo IPS ‘steer by wire’ propulsion system. CAN Bus communication protocols, provides the SmartPilot IPS with single cable interface to Volvo IPS drives. Raymarine’s proven SeaTalk technology provides captains their choice of multiple SmartPilot control heads as well as seamless integration with Raymarine’s multifunction displays and instrument systems. See our video covering Volvo’s IPS propulsion system

Cummins/MerCruiser Diesel Introduces Quantum Technology to Sterndrive Market 1/31/07

In keeping with Quantum family specifications, QSD engines are painted in Cummins/MerCruiser Diesel’s marine white and feature an advanced ECM with SmartCraft™ compatibility to monitor engine parameters. Modernized components like integrated heat exchangers and exhaust manifolds contribute to the design strategy aimed at reducing engine weight and size. The QSD series incorporates a High Pressure Common Rail fuel system that reduces smoke, noise and vibration for improved sociability.

The turbocharger and seawater aftercooler have been designed for improved throttle response and performance. The combination of these features provides unparalleled advantages including extended range and instant engine diagnostic capability for the operator. The QSD range is designed as a drop-in replacement for many gasoline applications.

"The QSD series is based on the successful, high pressure, common rail design, Cummins/MerCruiser Diesel brought to larger recreational and commercial boats a few years ago,” says Gary Dickman, Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Marketing. "Compatible with MerCruiser diesel stern drives, boaters now have the freedom to cruise farther while enjoying a quieter, smoother ride.”

Click here to browse our Boat Tests by engine brand.

Formula 310 Sun Sport is Turning Heads 1/31/07

The all-new Formula 310 Sun Sport, a recent addition to that company’s line-up of day boats, is getting lots of attention for its aft-facing convertible sun lounge. In fact, she was awarded Boating magazine’s “Best Bet” award “celebrating innovative, cool, and just plain smart design.” To see BoatTEST video on the Formula 310 and other Formula boats that are innovative, cool, and just plain smart, click here.

Malibu Boats: Making Big Waves 1/31/07

Malibu engineers took the "2006 Boat of the Year" 247 LSV design and wrapped it around a center-mounted 400 horse-power engine. The result is a 24 foot 7 inch direct-drive that accommodates 16 passengers with two lounge seating areas complete with near by refreshment and entertainment access. All this and the 247 RX churns out tournament caliber wakeboard wakes. To see Malibu’s line-up, click here.

Yacht Dropped by Crane 1/31/07

"It happened about 9:30 in the morning," said Pete Wallace, deputy executive director of Maritime Services. "There were many people on the docks working and one person was near the crane, but was able to get out of the way before (it) fell over and dropped the yacht."

According to Wallace, the crane operator had just unloaded the $3 million, 72-ft., 34-ton Sunseeker Yacht from the weather deck of a car carrier when the crane suddenly toppled over, dropping the yacht about 100 ft. to the dock below and sending the boom crashing on top of her.

The crane operator was able to crawl free of the wreckage, suffering only minor injuries. According to Wallace, he was taken to a local hospital, but was released and seen back at the dock later the same day.

The yacht's new owner was awaiting arrival of his new boat having had her shipped from Europe. Insurance investigators have been looking into the accident and assessing the overall damage to the yacht to see if any of her electronics or anything else is salvageable.

"There were no unusual conditions at the port, and the equipment was proper for the job," Wallace said. "We did have the normal easterly winds we get this time of year, but they were mild. They (port officials) are investigating what might have caused this to happen but we just don't know yet."

Courtesy of The Log

WARNING-Never use a lit match or open flame to check fuel level 1/31/07

The winner was recently announced in the 10th annual Wacky Warning Label contest hosted by the Michigan Lawsuit Abuse Watch. The contest, now in its tenth year, is conducted by Michigan Lawsuit Abuse Watch, M-LAW.

This year’s third runner-up was a tongue-in-cheek instruction label regarding the procedure for checking the fuel level in your PWC.

To check out BoatTEST.com PWC tests click here.

Loran to Be Switched-Off For Good? 1/31/07

The Department of Homeland Security is considering the need to continue to operate or invest in the North American LORAN-C Radionavigation System beyond fiscal year 2007. Future investment decisions might include: Decommissioning the LORAN-C system, maintaining the LORAN-C system as currently configured, or developing a fully deployed Enhanced LORAN (eLORAN) system. Contributing factors include whether GPS is adequate for the public’s navigation and timing needs. The Department of Transportation and the Department of Homeland Security seek public input on the various decisions currently under consideration.

For more information on LORAN visit navcen.uscg.gov

Comments must reach the Federal Docket Management Facility by February 7, 2007.

Mercury Introduces New Sterndrive System 1/23/07

Mercury MerCruiser has announced it is to begin production of Vazer, a new sterndrive system designed for boats traditionally powered by outboards, in March.

Vazer is a 100-hp sterndrive engine built with a compact design. It features a significantly reduced engine height that allows it to fit under seats, platforms and decks of a variety of boats, including pontoons, fishing boats and runabouts.

"Vazer will revolutionise the boating industry," said Kevin Grodzki, president of MerCruiser. "This sterndrive system will enable boatbuilders to design boats in configurations previously unimaginable."

The system is based on a proven 1.6 L GM Vortec SOHC 4-cylinder engine with an all-new compact sterndrive. The engine also features a compact composite intake manifold that maintains a long intake runner design for torque and horsepower.

Vazer features a composite-shell heat exchanger and heater connection ports that allow the addition of cockpit or cabin heat. A closed loop cooling system, which includes the engine block, aluminium exhaust header and cylinder head, allows Vazer to be used in both freshwater and saltwater conditions.

In addition, the MerCruiser Vazer includes 100-hour maintenance features such as translucent fluid reservoirs, a remote-mounted engine oil filter, five-year engine coolant and an easy oil drain system.

Its design innovations include trim cylinders with internal fluid routing so that external trim hoses are not exposed, and an engine-mounted lubricant reservoir with built-in electronic fluid-level sensing that is integrated into the standard Engine Guardian and drive protection system.

Production for the 100-hp Vazer will begin in early March at MerCruiser's manufacturing facility in Stillwater, Oklahoma, US.

Courtesy of IBI Magazine

Regal Introduces Semi-Custom Flagship 52-Footer 1/23/07

JANUARY 20, 2007 " ORLANDO, FL " With the launch of the largest yacht in its luxury performance boat fleet to date, the 5260 Commodore Express, Regal Marine Industries, Inc. will take its customer relationship to a whole new level. Offered with a wide array of layouts and interior décor, owners can personalize the new Regal 5260 to suit their individual tastes. This is as close to a custom-built yacht as you can get in 52 feet.

"With the new 5260 we will be offering our customers a unique purchase and ownership experience," said Duane Kuck, president and CEO of Regal Marine. "The yacht buyer in the fifty-two-foot range will now have the opportunity to customize and personalize his or her new yacht, rather than settling for what is in dealer inventory."

The highly versatile 5260 will be offered with two cockpit layouts "one with extended seating and the other featuring a garage that can store a dinghy. Four different cabin interiors are available, including two- and three-stateroom versions. The extensive range of options for interior fabrics, countertop materials, cabinetry and flooring are truly "custom-build level" in their scope and quality.

The 5260 is scheduled to launch in late spring. Regal is offering a Pre-Construction Base Price of $673,000 for 2008 models equipped with a choice of Volvo IPS 600 or Volvo D-9 575-hp V-drive diesel engines.

For more information on the new 5260 Commodore Express, call Chris Spindler, Regal's Sales & Marketing Coordinator at (407) 447-9249.

ICW Association Seeks Permanent Funding for Maintenance 1/23/07

If you dream of one day cruising "the ditch" on the East Coast, at the rate things are going you may never get that chance. Silting and erosion are growing at an alarming rate, rendering some areas of the waterway nearly closed to navigation for all but the smallest boats. If current maintenance (or lack of maintenance) schedules continue, it won’t be long before a snowbird run down the ICW is a piece of history. At their annual conference in November, 2006, the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association has asked Congress to “identify and implement a permanent dedicated funding source for the maintenance of the Waterway.” Sighting the inability of Congress to consistently provide discretionary funding, the organization is concerned with the resulting loss of utility, commerce, jobs, and public safety felt by international, national, state, and local users of the canal, both commercially and recreationally.

For more information, visit

Visit atlintracoastal.org.

Yachtsman rescued by Homeless Men 1/23/07

Three homeless men are being hailed as heroes, except no one knows who they are.

When a Washington DC Marina boat owner slipped on an ice-covered dock and fell into the Washington Channel Monday night, one of the three homeless men heard his cries.

That man jumped a fence and ran down the dock. The man couldn't pull the boat owner from the water but he did hold on. As he held on, two other homeless men flagged down D.C. Harbor Patrol Officer Hilliard Dean who had already been called to the area to look for somebody in the water.

The two homeless men boosted Dean over a 7-foot fence so he could get to the scene. Dean and the first homeless man pulled the boat owner from the frigid waters right near the Fish Market.

"He couldn't pull himself out. He was too cold," Dean said.

One of the homeless men reassured the victim he would survive, Dean says.

"All [the victim] knew was the homeless person who was holding on to his one arm had told him to stay with him. [The homeless man said,] 'I got you. You're not going to go anywhere. You're not going to die tonight. I have you. I have,'" Dean says.

The victim, who suffered hypothermia, said he had been wearing dress shoes on the icy dock when he slipped. Once he was in the water, he says he slipped under the water and the homeless man pulled his head back up.

Two of the men wrapped the victim in their blankets as Dean went back to make sure the ambulance crew knew the location.

The victim says he is extremely grateful to the three men.

In all of the confusion, officers did not find out more about the homeless men. They are hoping the men come forward so they can be thanked.

Courtesy of Wtopnews.com

Sea Tow Services International Survey 1/11/07

Sea Tow Services International Inc. recently released its 2006 boater statistics survey, which suggests over 70 percent of boaters spent the same or more time on the water last year compared to years past.

The results were based on the first 1,000 respondents to complete the company’s annual online survey. According to Sea Tow, there was an increase of nearly 10 percent looking to upgrade their boat.

Thirty-one percent of respondents spent the same amount of time on the water, followed by 29.6 percent who said they spent less time on the water, primarily because they were too busy. According to Sea Tow, high fuel prices were blamed for only 37 percent of boaters slowing down.

In terms of boat storage, 20 percent said they keep their boat at their home dock, while the remaining 80 percent were split, nearly evenly, between marinas/yacht clubs and on trailers. There was nearly a 10 percent increase over last year in trailer boating.

Of the surveyed, 80.9 percent said they will attend one or more boat shows this year.

Regal Marine Receives NMMA CSI Award 1/11/07

The National Marine Manufacturers Association recently honored Regal Marine Industries with its coveted CSI Award for outstanding customer satisfaction. The Award recognizes Regal Marine’s active CSI efforts and achievements in three recreational boat categories: Deckboats, Sterndrive Bowrider Boats and Sterndrive Cuddy Express Boats. The NMMA CSI Awards were presented in November during the 2006 International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) in Miami Beach, FL.

This is the fifth year in a row that Regal, a leader in the international recreational boat market, has been an NMMA CSI Award recipient. In fact, the NMMA has honored Regal each year since the inception of its Marine Industry CSI Awards Program in 2001. The awards recognize marine manufacturers for achieving and maintaining an independently measured standard of excellence of 90 percent or higher in customer satisfaction over the previous 12 months. A minimum of 25 consumer responses are required in each category.

Visit regalboats.com

KVH Introduces World's Smallest Stabilised Marine Antenna for European Satellite TV 1/11/07

The TracVision® M3 marine satellite TV system is now available for mariners throughout Europe. The cmapnay claims that the TracVision M3 is the world's smallest stabilized marine satellite TV system and is ideal for installation aboard vessels as small as 25 feet. The system offers everything boaters need to enjoy their favorite local programming at sea, including the TracVision M3 antenna, a multi-satellite control unit, and a single cable for easy installation.

According to the company, satellite television is among the most popular accessories for boaters worldwide, keeping them connected to live news, sports, and entertainment via powerful regional satellite TV services. However, due to the size requirements of these antennas, satellite TV was historically only practical for vessels 40 feet and larger. However, the TracVision M3, the world's smallest stabilised marine satellite TV system, changes all that.

The new TracVision M3 is fully automatic, connecting boaters to more popular local satellite TV programming, such as SKY in the UK, Premiere in Germany, or Digital+ in Spain when cruising along the coast in those respective countries. Its powerful motors are extremely quiet yet are responsive enough to keep the TracVision M3's antenna locked onto the satellite even aboard small vessels. Also included in the TracVision M3 package is KVH's exclusive 12-volt multi-satellite control unit, allowing boaters to connect the system directly to the vessel's 12-volt power supply as well as to virtually any home satellite TV receiver.

For more information on this product visit kvh.com.

Tom Fexas, Yacht Designer Extraordinaire, Dies at 65 12/6/06

Tom Fexas will go down in the annals of powerboat design history as one of a very select few powerboat yacht designers who advanced the basic concepts, styling, construction and design of modern powerboats. He was a humble, self-deprecating giant with a heart of gold and a sense of humor about himself, yacht owners and the whole boating industry that made him one of the best-known and loved yacht designers of our time. He died at age 65 after a long, undisclosed illness.

Fexas grew up on the north shore of Long Island to Greek parents and his experiences in the late 1940’s and early ‘50s forever shaped his attitude and eye for powerboats and their lines. He became enamored of the long, narrow, sleek Consolidated and Elcos that plied the waters of Western Long Island sound, both as commuters to Wall Street left over from the days of “East Egg” and the Great Gatsby to the traditionalists of the ‘50s who remembered their heritage and kept the breed alive and afloat despite the advance of dry rot and fiberglass.

Tom, who seemed to always have a shy smile on his face, graduated from the Maritime Academy at Kings Point, NY with a degree in engineering. From 1962 to ’65 he was the 3rd engineer on the passenger ship SS Independence. He went on to work for the Electric Boat Company in Groton, CT as a nuclear project engineer on the Trident class subs from 1965 to 1977. In the meantime he got a degree from the Westlawn School of Yacht Design and in the mid ‘70s, became a NAMS-certified yacht surveyor, and began designing yachts. In 1977 he quit Electric Boat to over see the construction of his first yacht in Stuart, FL, which ended up being the first Midnight Lace, and Stuart his home for the rest of his life.

Midnight Lace caught the eye of Ft. Lauderdale yacht brokers Don Canavan and David Jackson, and soon he was doing design work for Cheoy Lee and more Midnight Lace designs of different sizes. Because of his background in engineering of nuclear subs where speed and weight are of prime importance he transformed his knowledge in to the design of light, fast powerboats propelled with small engines. He was one of the first naval architects to spec powerboats with composite materials using foam core, honeycomb materials and other devices to give strength with less weight than conventional powerboats which were largely overbuilt with bottoms of fiberglass and resin a couple of inches thick.

Fexas wanted speed and fuel economy which meant light boats, flat-ish bottoms, and narrow beams y much like the early Midnight Laces, for which he is remembered. In fact, only about 45 Midnight Laces in different sizes were ever built, and they are now collector’s items – boats appreciated by a sophisticated few who understand Fexas’ love the old commuters, with Tom’s whimsical design twists. The last Fexas Midnight Lace was introduced at this year’s Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show, represented by Colonial Yacht Sales.

It was Tom’s sense of humor that brought him to the attention of Bonnie O’Boyle, editor of the newly founded Power and Motoryacht magazine in 1985. Bonnie commissioned Tom to write a column every month on anything that struck his fancy – and the first one was a broadside at the utter futility of sailboats and the poor souls who had the poor judgment to love them. Never before had someone dared to prick the haughty, holier-than-thou arrogance of sailors, who had historically done nothing but look down their noses at “stink potters”, who to them didn’t know port from starboard, and who sported fenders dangling along their hulls while underway, a situation called by sailors as “Sea Ray” racing stripes. Fexas spoke the minds of millions of powerboat owners and got sweet revenge in his first column in 1985. Now that they are an endangered species, it is hard to imagine how seriously they once took themselves.

The article created a fire-storm of editorials from humorless sailors not only in boating magazines but in large daily newspapers as well. Needless to say, with one witty column, Fexas put both himself and the fledgling magazine on the nautical map. (PMY has long been the most successful marine magazine in the world.) Tom never looked back, nor did he ever apologize to the poor souls who love sitting in a cockpit in the wind and rain, wet and miserable, while heeled at a 30-degree angle unable to stand up, squat or sit down, going 4 knots 45-degrees from their intended course. (He wrote his PMY column from 1985 until 2003 – 18 years of Tom lovingly poking fun at the pompous in the boating Industry.

Tom’s obit in the New York Times dwells on his Midnight Lace designs, but in fact that was the least of his body of work. Over 1,000 of his designs were built – from 17’ to 150’ by some of the best yards in the world. His 126’ motoryacht “Time” built by Mike Kelsey’s Palmer Johnson was revolutionary in design and one can still see her lines on some of sleekest large yachts built today. In 1995 he won the Superyacht award for 150” “La Baroness” built by Palmer Johnson. But he also designed boats for stock boat builders around the world, including the Southern Cross brand from Australia, and Mares which were built in Brazil and were the most innovative 20-footers of their era and Mickelson. Custom yards that built his designs include Burger, Sterling, Derecktor, Royal Denship, Trident, and Knight & Carver.

The powerboat community has lost a wonderful human being who brought speed, structural engineering, lightweight and innovation to powerboats, and a smile to all that knew him. God Bless you, Tom Fexas, we are honored to have known you.

Radar and Rules of the Road 11/09/06

Radar is not a substitute for human lookout. Experience is essential for the proper use and interpretation of information on a radar screen. So is common sense. In the hands of an experienced operator, radar can be used to avoid a collision or negotiate a foggy passage that might otherwise have been impossible. When the operator is inexperienced or careless however, radar offers little more than a false sense of security.

It should be noted that the Navigation Rules apply equally to large ships or recreational boats, including Rule 7, which requires that radar, “if fitted and operational,” shall be used properly to determine if risk of collision exists. Proper use includes “radar plotting or equivalent systematic observation of detected objects.” This leaves open the possibility that in a courtroom battle over liability, radar could be the basis for finding fault against you if it was available and not used properly.

Plotting Radar Positions

As with visual sightings, bearings that remain constant while the range is decreasing indicate targets on a radar screen that are on a collision course. Plotting these targets, which is required by the Navigation Rules, also indicates dangerous course changes being made by approaching boats that would instantly be apparent in clear weather, but are otherwise slow to become apparent on a radar screen.

On early models, plotting involved transferring information from the screen onto a plotting sheet (and marking the time of each observation) to better estimate closing speed. Plotting at least two positions was necessary to estimate the target’s course and speed. Three or more observations were necessary to not a change in relative position.

The next generation of radar, which had television-type screens that didn’t require hoods during the day, meant that a grease pen could be used to mark the positions of other boats directly onto the glass screen. This reduces the time that was required for a navigator to observe changes in the relative position of other boats. Again, at least three observations had to be made for the operator to ascertain any changes.

The newest sets leave a target trail on the screen to indicate an approaching boat’s course. Some new sets also allow you to click on a target – an approaching boat – to get its speed and closest point of approach. These sets are far more user friendly than those of only a decade ago.

Even with the best state-of-the-art set, however, experience is essential to make adjustments for sea conditions and range as well as to interpret information on the screen.

Courtesy of BoatU.S.

Routine Inspection Tip 11/09/06

What better time to inspect your boat then when you’re hauling it out for the winter. Before you shrink wrap the boat be sure and check that all fittings, hoses and nuts are on tight and secure and no leaks are present.

One of the most critical jobs is to check the condition of your boat’s fuel fittings and hoses. Joints in the fuel system should also be checked for leaks (use your fingers or look under the fitting for stains) and make sure fuel lines are well supported with non-combustible clip or straps with smooth edges. Other potential trouble spots include the fuel filter, fuel tank, as well as brittle or mushy hoses.

Always use your nose. It’s important to sniff for odors before starting the engine. Running your blower won’t eliminate vapors from spilled fuel!

The $15,000 Loose Nut

A 40,000 pound sportfisherman can have a lot of momentum. Like most larger powerboats, however, it has two powerful engines to make maneuvering in tight spaces relatively easy, unless of course, something fails.

A sportfisherman owner was in the process of docking and pulled back on the throttle to reverse the starboard engine. To his surprise, it didn’t respond and continued moving slowly forward. Unable to control his boat in the confines of the narrow dock, all it took was a scant few seconds to do $15,000 damage to two nearby boats.

Later, it was found that a small nut that secures the starboard engine’s shift cable had loosened, allowing the cable to slide out of its bracket. An unsupported cable, as the owner found out, is useless. If you haven’t done so already, make sure these brackets are part of your routine maintenance inspections.

Terry Rinker Wins Grand Prix of Savannah 11/09/06

FOND DU LAC, Wis.-- Mercury Racing-powered Terry Rinker won the inaugural Grand Prix of Savannah on Sunday, November 5, on the Savannah River in downtown Savannah. The 50-lap Grand Prix was the seventh and final round of the 2006 ChampBoat Grand Prix Series presented by Mercury Racing.

With this victory, the Tampa, Fla., native set a new world record for the most consecutive victories in outboard tunnel boat racing history. Nine-time UIM Formula 1 outboard tunnel boat racer Guido Cappellini of Como, Italy previously held the title.

High winds and strong currents created rough course conditions as 20 drivers qualified on Saturday November 4, for the 50-lap final race on Sunday. Rinker captured the pole position Saturday with a lap time of 32.45 seconds at a top-speed of 124.807 mph.

King of Kings Competition Ensues in Carolina 11/09/06

The 50 qualifying teams for the 2006 Wal-Mart FLW Kingfish Tour Championship welcomed the sight of pleasant weather Thursday November 9th, as they took off onto Charleston Harbor in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina for opening day of the $500,000 season finale.

Colder, windier conditions over the weekend kept many teams from taking full advantage of their practice period in the offshore waters off the South Carolina coast, but milder weather over the next three days should give competitors ample opportunity to hunt down big kings and the sport’s biggest payday.

While Team Castrol spent just a few hours on the water in a fruitless effort to scrounge up some bait in practice, many teams opted to forego the big sea swells and chilly air of the pre-tournament period. However, it’s crunch time now, and the sun and calm seas couldn’t have arrived at a more fortuitous moment. The forecast is calling for mostly sunny skies and seas in the 2- to 3-foot range for the duration of the championship.

For Team Castrol, which landed two top-10 finishes and never placed worse than 22nd place this season, they hope it’s a recipe for big-time success. Parrish estimated that contending teams will probably need to catch at least one 30-pound king, plus a 50-pound or more aggregate weight to push for victory.

At stake in the championship is a potential $150,000 payday for the winning team.

The 50 teams will compete the first two days, Thursday November 9th and Friday November 10th , in order to make the top-five cut into the final round Saturday, November 11th. Teams can weigh in one kingfish per day in the opening round; the top five heaviest single fish from the first two days will advance. The winner Saturday will be determined by combined weight: the heaviest weight determined by adding the team’s kingfish from the first two days to its fish on the final day.

Courtesy of FLWOutdoors.com

Allen & Swenson Win PMTT Ranger Boats World Championship 11/09/06

The Fox Chain of Lakes and the village of Antioch, in northeastern Illinois, were the focus of the angling community's attention the weekend of November 4th& 5th as the Professional Musky Tournament Trail rolled into town for the 2006 Ranger Boats World Championship, to bestow two of Musky fishing's most highly regarded honors, the Ranger Boats World Championship crown and PMTT Top Gun Award. Of the more than 500 top esox anglers, representing 28 states and Canada, who compete in this challenging series of 4 national qualifiers, only 50 get an invitation and those that do earn the right to be here eagerly want to prove that they are indeed the 'best of the best"! Defending 2005 TOP GUN Title holders, Minnesota's Brad Swenson of Pillager and Kirk Allen of Emily, did just that in one of the most exciting finishes in the PMTT's eight year history by safely releasing a 31-1/4 & 39-3/4 inch pair in the last hour of day one and the event $500 "Big Fish" of 44-inches in the waning moments of day two, adding the 2006 Ranger Boats World Championship Title, $1,694 cash ...and a 2007 RANGER 619VS - RangerTrail Trailer - 150 Mercury Optimax to an impressive and growing list of accomplishments they have strung together the past few seasons that includes 3rd Place in the 2006 Top Gun points race for an additional $800!

Click here for complete tournament results

http://www.fishingworld.com/News/Read.php?ArtID=000019007

Elite Wildcard Event Offers Second Chance for Pros 11/09/06

After nearly 40 years in the tournament business, "firsts" are extremely rare when it comes to the competitive side of the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society.

But that is exactly what the final BASS professional tournament of 2006 will represent. The CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series Wildcard event, set for Nov. 16-18 on Central Florida's Harris Chain of Lakes, is the first of its kind in BASS history.

The Wildcard tournament gives pros on both the 2006 Elite Series and CITGO Bassmaster Northern and Southern Tours a last chance to qualify for the lucrative, high-profile 2007 Elite Series. In total, the top 81 Elite Series anglers in points as well as the top five finishers in each of the Tour circuits already have qualified.

An invitation to the Wildcard was extended to pros who finished in sixth through 25th places on the Southern and Northern Tours. The balance of the field will be filled by Elite Series pros that did not re-qualify for 2007. (In addition, the top 30 co-anglers from each Tour will have their own competition.) The competition will be aired on The CITGO Bassmasters on ESPN2 on Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. ET.

The top 10 performers in the three-day tournament will earn a spot in the 2007 Elite Series. The winner will receive Elite Series entry fees (a $55,000 value) as well as a Triton boat package valued at nearly $50,000. Second and third place also get a Triton boat and $10,000 in entry fees. Third through 10th place takes home $10,000 in Elite entry fees and the 11th- and 12th-place performers earn $5,000 cash. Total payout for pros and co-anglers is nearly $470,000.

Courtesy of FishingWorld.com

Getting Fish Excited 11/09/06

As winter settles in over much of the fishing landscape, many anglers use the time to clean out tackle boxes, maintain reels and daydream in the pages of catalogs and aisles of sporting goods stores. There is another great use of your time: study of important concepts that can help you fish better next season.

One of the little-understood factors in fishing is the relationship between fish and the food they eat and how variables like abundance of food in an area and abundance of fellow predators can change how big fish respond to lures.

It's a mouthful and a brainful, for sure. But listen to Rapala pro Larry Nixon and you'll better understand it.

If you pay attention to this factor in the future, you will catch more fish.

One belief among top fishermen: when you have a lot of fish in an area and they have to compete hard for available food, that causes the fish to be more aggressive. Weather conditions and other factors come into play, but this creates one of those situations where fish chase down lures and hammer them hard.

But if there is plenty of food in an area (it can be insects, crayfish, smaller baitfish) and relatively fewer predator fish, that can change things in a hurry. That factor, all by itself, can cause bigger fish to become picky. If there is a steady stream of potential food parading by, why would a fish swim any distance to strike your lure?

"Excitement between fish is the number one thing that catches them," says the Arkansas angler, long a legend among competitive fishermen. "They get excited busting shad, for example. When excitement is happening like that, you can catch lots of fish. A lot of times, it's a matter of waiting for the excitement level to get at its peak, and trick fish into messing up."

Nixon pays close attention to how much ‘bait' is in an area, either by seeing it in shallow water or marking it on a depthfinder in deeper water. He then experiments with various Rapala lures and approaches to presentation, to see what produces best.

"When fish are around lots of bait," says Nixon, "you gotta find something that trips their trigger. Sometimes you want your lure to act like what they're feeding on. Sometimes, you want your bait to be bigger or smaller (than the natural food). Sometimes that can get you bites."

"If your lure flushes the bait," he says, "that can help you, because fish get excited when the bait is panicked and moving all over. I will take a big plug and run it through shad and make ‘em jump out of the water and that will trigger excitement and get strikes. Exciting the bait can excite the fish. Downsizing to a teeny crankbait (like smaller Fat Raps or DT series crankbaits, for example) can ignite strikes. I've caught fish other people couldn't catch, by going very small.

"Or, it might be that your lure needs to closely imitate the bait, and you just have to keep it in the water until the fish go into a feeding mood and then you can catch them."

It can become frustrating, especially when there is lots of food in an area and nothing seems to work.

"There are times when you see so much bait but no activity," explains Larry. "There might be millions of shad, but you don't see any movement from them. It's hard to figure, but there can be nothing going on in that area. I've fished all day and had bait everywhere and can't catch a single fish. I might leave that area entirely, and go find another area. At times like that, you might have to scratch out a fish here and there on isolated cover and just ignore the (hordes of) bait.

"Timing can be the key. It might be something as simple as being there at the crack of dawn, and it only happens for 30 minutes. There may be different answers, but there's always an answer."

Courtesy of FishingWorld.com

10 Rules for Finding Your First Boat 11/09/06

1. Every boat is a compromise. Make sure you are making the right ones. Nine are listed below.
2. Your boat will usually be used for more than one activity. Make sure you choose a boat suited to your “primary” activity.



3. How many people will be customarily riding in your boat? Will there be children aboard? The more people you have aboard the larger the boat must be.



4. Where and when will you be using your boat? You don’t need a boat built to go around Cape Horn if you are only going to be using it in a placid lake during the summer.



5. How much money is comfortable for you to buy a boat? How much of your budget is comfortable for you to spend on your boat monthly? There is a boat available for virtually every pocketbook. It may be an old aluminum Jon boat with an aging 2-stroke outboard, but there is something around you can afford. Don’t be too proud to buy “under” what is comfortable. Remember you are getting into boating to have fun, not to keep up with Mr. Jones. Sweating monthly payments and yard bills is no fun.



6. Should you buy new or used? New boats cost more, but everything works and should be under warranty. For the same money you can buy a far larger boat used, but your maintenance and replacement costs will be higher. Examine your own skills and personal proclivities and that should help point to an answer.
   
   
   1. If it is a used boat and represents a lot of money to you, then by all means have the boat surveyed by a SAMS or NAMS member. See the Davis & Company ads on our pages.
   
   
   
   2. Most surveyors won’t comment on the engines, so you will need a mechanic you trust to inspect it. Even then there are many things he can not check easily and you should consider an extended aftermarket warranty on the engine. If no one will sell you one there is a message there.
   
   
   
7. How many engines should the boat have and what horsepower? It depends on the type and size of boat and where you are going to take it. Many boats are under-powered – even brand new ones. That makes them cheaper to buy, difficult to get on plane – particularly with a number of people aboard – and slower. Before buying take a sea trial to make sure your engines are easy to start and have enough juice for your intended activity.



8. How much time will you spend on your boat at a single stretch? Three hours? Six hours? Six days? Think about it an make sure that your boat has the room, storage capacity and the required necessities for your time on board. Does it have room for a head, cooler storage, life jackets, ground tackle, food, fishing gear, clothing, foul weather gear, water skis, etc.



9. How large should the boat be? Your answers to the questions above will all point to the best size for you. But don’t just compare what the builders say what the length of their boats are – get aboard and see for yourself how much room is really there. Companies measure their boats differently with some counting the bow pulpit and the swim platform bolted to the stern. One company’s 30-footer might be another company’s 27’ model. Beam is also important. It adds stability, more room, may make the boat slower and not trailerable without a special permit. Check it out.



10. What is your exit strategy? This is your first boat. If you choose wisely and you enjoy the experience, it may be the first of many. After a season or two on your first boat you will know if you made the right compromises. If not, that is what second boats are for. If boating turns out not to be all that you had hoped, then make sure the boat you buy is one that other people will want at a price your are comfortable receiving.

Replacing Your Impeller 11/09/06

When was the last time you replaced your engine’s water pump impeller? (Have you ever replaced your engine’s impeller?) It’s a relatively small but critical component that supplies vital cooling water to your engine. No cooling water = no engine. Over time, however, an impeller’s neoprene blades take a “set,” which means they’ll be less flexible and less effective. How much time depends on whom you ask. Since you can’t always look at an impeller and know its condition, some boat owners, to be safe, swap them out every year. Pump manufacturers typically recommend replacement every two years or after 100 hours of use.

Let’s suppose you don’t have a clue how old your impeller is. The solution is to look at the date code on the side wall. The letter code indicates year of production; the number code (1-12) indicates the production month. For example, D11 was produced in November of 2002. Impellers are not something you want to allow to fail before replacement.

Courtesy of BoatUS

Billions of Dollars Floating on the Intercoastal Waterway 11/02/06

An exquisite gallery of superyachts worth billions of dollars was on display at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show October 26 – 30.

Oceanfast – 228’ Floridian (Est. Net Worth of $70 Million) Formerly known as Aussie Rules when it belonged to golf-great Greg Norman, this Oceanfast luxury yacht has a new owner (H. Wayne Huizenga), a new name (Floridian), and ranks in the top 50 of the world’s 100 largest superyachts.* And it’s no wonder. Floridian has a helipad, plus deck space for six boats (including a 42' sportfisher).

Trinity Yachts (Five Superyachts on Display Est. Net Worth $120 Million) 151' Lady Linda -A tri-deck, aluminum hull, semi-displacement yacht with Transatlantic capabilities. 161' Imagine - Similar to Lady Linda in structure, but offering a couple of additional nuggets of enjoyment: a 14' deep swim platform at aft level, where you can dine alfresco literally at the water’s edge. The 180' Mia Elise, 161' Zoom Zoom Zoom and 126' Big Easy were also part of the Trinity Superyachts on display.

Amels – 171’ Lady In Blue (Est. Net Worth $45 Million) This Dutch tri-deck let’s you dance under the stars all night long. Guests can boogie forward to the bridge-deck lounge with afterdeck, concealed DJ desk, and speakers to dance the night away.

St. James – 142’ St. James ( Est. Net Worth $7.5 Million) From the Grand Spiral staircase, to the built-in cabinetry and paneling in all staterooms, the solid mahogany woodwork throughout was completed by craftsmen from the family construction business in New Orleans.

Palmer Johnson – 123’ Muse (Est. Net Worth $15 Million) Black-tinted windows below eye level offer privacy inside, while providing a stunning and stark contrast to its sleek, pearl white hull outside. The Nuvolari-Lenard interior design is reminiscent of trendy European loft-living, with fabrics in shades of cream, bronze and brown and hints of silvery blue, accentuated against walnut and sycamore veneers, hardwood floors, and cobalt light fixtures illuminating the interior in halogen and LED lighting.

Broward Marine 120’ (Est. Net Worth $12 Million) This 120-foot motoryacht is Broward’s first in its new 24-foot beam raised pilothouse series, and represents the company’s first-ever collaborative design efforts. The new exterior look, a dramatic profile with curved glass panels sweeping the entire length of the deck, comes courtesy of U.K.’s Evan Marshall.

Cheoy Lee 100’ – (Est. Net Worth $6.3 Million) Modeled after the popular 95 Series, the five extra feet were added to accommodate a cockpit. There is a glass-enclosed observation lounge on its own independent deck just below the flybridge, with all views looking forward. Twenty underwater Xenon ultra-bright lights encircling the entire hull illuminate the ocean below.

Some other superyachts at the show included:
• 191’ Lurssen Linda Lou - (Est. Net Worth $90 Million)

• 164’ Haakvoort JeMaSa - (Est. Net Worth $50 Million)

• 157’ Christensen Barchetta - (Est. Net Worth $40 Million)

• 110’ Lazarra - (Est. Net Worth $10 Million)

• 108’ Sunseeker - (Est. Net Worth $10 Million)

... and many, many more

Anchoring Basics – Knowing the Components 11/02/06

The Scoop on Scope

Aside from the anchor itself, the angle of pull on the rode has the most impact on whether a boat is likely to stay put. This critical angle is largely dependent on “scope”, which is the ratio of anchor rode to water depth. Scope is measured from the bow of the boat to the sea bottom; if the water is 10 feet deep and your bow is three feet of the water, the depth is 13 feet. A good starting ratio for scope is five-to-one. In this case, you’d need 65 feet of anchor rode for five-to-one scope. Scope, however, has some variables. For example, the higher the expected winds, the more scope will be needed – seven or eight to one, or even more, is required for heavy winds. Scope is also dependent on the type of rode used.

Chain

Chain forms a catenary, or curve, in the rode that helps keep the anchor horizontal so that it digs in when it’s pulled, even with less scope. An all-chain rode has some catenary in all but the strongest (hurricane) winds. The catenary effect can also be achieved by attaching a heavy weight – a kellet – to the line.

Chain has the added advantage of being resistant to chafe when it’s dragged over rocks and debris on the bottom. The best all-around chain for anchoring use is hot dip galvanized proof coil. High-test chain is stronger for its size, but costs significantly more, though its superior strength allows for a smaller, lighter chain. Stainless steel chain has the advantage that it will never leave rust marks on your deck, but costs several times as much as proof coil and isn’t quite as strong. Plastic coated chain is easier on the deck, but is subject to corrosion under the coating. BBB chain is similar to proof coil, but has links sized to fit certain windlasses. Whatever you do, avoid cheap hardware store chain; it’s not tested and galvanized to the same standards.

Catenary comes from weight, but unfortunately weight is often the last thing you want aboard – too much of it in the bow can adversely affect a boat’s handling. And while chain’s catenary absorbs shock in normal conditions, in storm conditions a tight chain is hard on the boat’s hardware and also makes it more likely that the anchor will get yanked off the bottom. Nylon line, however, doesn’t have this problem.

Line

Nylon line gets it shock absorbing properties from stretch rather than catenary action and it’s this property, along with its lighter weight and strength that makes it a good rode. Three-strand nylon line has the most stretch while polyester line is about 15% stronger and more resistant to chafe but doesn’t absorb shock as well. Polypropylene line should be avoided in anything larger than a dinghy – it lacks strength and stretch and it floats. Chafe is the enemy of any line and can appear at places you might not expect.

Line’s biggest drawback is that it has almost no weight in water and therefore no catenary, so the anchor tends to be pulled up even in light winds – to keep the angle of pull low, a longer rode is needed.

Combination Rode

Strength, catenary, reasonable weight, a measure of stretch, and chafe resistance on the bottom are a tall order for an anchor rode. The solution is to combine a length of relatively heavy chafe-resistant chain attached to the anchor and then a light weight, strong, stretchy line attached to the chain so you get the best of both worlds. One to two boat lengths of chain is sufficient for most purposes, although more is always better. Be aware that with a rope/chain rode, only certain windlasses can bring in rope and chain on the same gypsy. Those that can will need a rope-to-chain splice, which is more vulnerable to chafe.

Use good quality shackles to tie the system together, seize the pin to prevent it from unscrewing at a bad time, and you have an effective rode. But just dropping the anchor and rode anywhere is an invitation to failure.

Using the Wind to Help Reel in More Fish 11/02/06

Active fish concentrate on the windy side of a lake or reservoir where the food chain goes wild and walleyes can use their keen sight and lateral lines to their advantage. Even at midday, the wind creates dim conditions because it reduces light penetration.

You've all seen days when wind blows onto a structure. You hammer fish. Then, the wind stops, and so does the bite. If the wind changes direction, action picks up on different structures that are being hit by the brunt of the wind. It's the classic good news, bad news situation. Fish are biting where the wind is whipping, but controlling your boat and fishing well under those conditions can be a big challenge.

A few boat handling tips can help ease the hassle.

Years on the water have proven walleyes are selective and finicky. They tend to avoid chasing lures or bait. Like all predators, they'd rather their food come to them. That allows them to save energy for growing and reproducing. As a result, more walleyes are caught under 1.5 mph than above. That explains why the most productive tactics are often ones that put bait right in their face. Vertical presentations include jigs, Lindy rigs and slip bobbers. Horizontal presentations include trolling, bottom bouncers and drifting with jigs or rigs. But sometimes, the wind moves a boat faster than the desired speed. There are tools you can use in that case…
• Trolling motors. In a slight breeze, turn the bow of the boat into the wind to work contours of structures. When buying a boat, equip it with the most-powerful trolling motor and the longest shaft you can for your purpose. Autopilot trolling motors like MinnKota's new Terrova are great aids to set the direction which you want to move the boat in. Back trolling with a gas tiller motor offers even more control in stronger breezes. Be subtle. Make minor adjustments in speed, not major ones.
• For console boats, utilizing a gasoline-powered kicker motor gives you additional power in order to neutralize the wind speed. A bow-mounted trolling motor can then be used to steer side-to-side.
• Drift socks like Drift Control and Wave Tamer. Never leave the dock without one or two in the boat. They can slow the boat to a crawl even in stiff breezes. (Get the size right for your boat. Too small is no good. Get two sizes.) Drift socks are used most when drifting flats. To insure a straight drift the larger drift sock should be attached to the front portion of the boat. Put the smaller one on the stern. Without a drift sock, the bow will often catch the wind and push it downwind.

To precisely drift a contour, tie a sock from the stern, turn the bow into the wind and use the trolling motor to stay on the edge. A drift sock from the rear while drifting with the wind also slows the boat to allow more casts to productive spots.

Forward trolling with the wind: If the boat is moving too fast, tie two identical drift socks off the forward cleats so they are open at mid-ship. This tactic can cut boat speed 30 to 50 percent.

A harness buoy is a great accessory. Just release the harness buoy to get the drift sock out of the way when you are fighting a big fish. Return for the drift sock when the fish is safely in your net. Another advantage: the buoy has marked the place where the fish took your bait. Where there's one, there could be more.

Anchoring your boat in one spot is the ultimate form of boat control. Drop anchor when you find the spot-on-a-spot, and in places where you have a high degree of confidence that walleyes are there or will show up soon. For example, anchor over that rock pile on a point or where coontail meets cabbage. That could signal a fish-attracting change in the bottom content. Or, it might be a washed-out area in a wingdam.

While anchored, you can move the boat to new fishing areas by simply moving the rope from one cleat to another. Use a heavy Navy style anchor. Have plenty of rope– as much as 100 to 150 feet. Too little rope and the anchor won't hold. It's best to have two anchors onboard.

Even sitting still, the wind can give your bait motion. Cast weighted slip bobbers like the Lindy Pro Series into the wind and let the breeze blow them back to the boat to cover a larger area.

You can vary the speed and direction of your baits in other ways, too. When searching for suspended fish, troll with the wind and make S-turns to vary the speed. Outside lures travel faster, inside lures go slower. Stall your baits once in a while, too. Sometimes that's all that's needed to trigger a bite.

Don't be a steady eddy when casting jigs or crankbaits. Any muskie angler will tell you that. Vary your retrieve speed and direction. Rip a crankbait and let it stop. Pop a jig (pop-pop-pop), then let it fall, then drag it. Move bottom-bouncers up and down the edges of structures while reaching back to tap the bottom.

Learn to use the wind. Don't fight it. In the end, you will win.

Courtesy of Fishingworld.com

South East Regional Championship Tournament Nov. 3-4 11/02/06

The Fishers of Men National Tournament Trail is pleased to announce that our fifth stop along the "2006 Fishers of Men Regional Championship Series" will be Clewiston, Florida for the "2006 Lake Okeechobee Southeast Regional Championship". Being held on one of the nation’s top largemouth bass fisheries, more than 357 competitors (179 Boats), plus many family members, will begin arriving in Clewiston on Oct. 31, to prepare for the annual Southeast Regional. After the seven-day off-limits period, anglers will begin two days of practice on Nov. 1 and 2, in their quest to earn a share of the significant payout.

The official tournament competition is on November 3rd and 4th, culminating in the substantial payout for the top finishers. The first place team will earn a fully rigged, 2006 Triton TR-186/Mercury 150 hp Optimax combo with Motorguide trolling motor and Lowrance electronics. These manufacturers are among the top leaders in the boating industry.

Tournament anglers will blast off at safelight each day from Roland and Mary Ann Martin’s Marina, 920 E Del Monte Ave, Clewiston, FL 33440. The daily weigh-ins will begin at 3:00 pm on Friday and Saturday. The top seven finishers, by weight, in this event, along with the highest finisher from each division, all Division Points Champions and the highest Adult/Junior plus Male/Female team will earn a spot in the "No Entry Fee National Championship", to be held May 9th thru May 14th, 2007, on beautiful Lake Murray, located just outside of Columbia, SC, where they will compete for a fully rigged $40,000+, 2007 Triton TR20X/Mercury 200hp Optimax and cash awards for all the remaining teams that survive the "Friday Top 20 percent Cut" to earn the privilege of competing on the final day of the 2006/2007 Fishers of Men National Championship.

Courtesy of Fishingworld.com

USA Water Ski’s October Athletes of The Month 11/02/06

POLK CITY, Fla. - USA Water Ski has selected Todd Haig (Redlands, Calif.) and Leza Harrison (Oviedo, Fla.) as its Male and Female Athletes of the Month, respectively, for October. The U.S. Veteran Water Ski Team was selected as Team of the Month. Haig, Harrison and the U.S. Veteran Water Ski Team will now be eligible for the United States Olympic Committee’s Athletes and Team of the Month honors.

“Congratulations to Todd Haig, Leza Harrison and members of the U.S. Veteran Water Ski Team for their exceptional efforts during the month of October,” said Andy Jugan, USA Water Ski’s executive director. “These athletes continue to excel in their respective sport disciplines.”

Haig won two titles at the second annual Nordic Boats US Open Water Ski Racing National Championships, Oct. 13-15, on Mission Bay in San Diego, Calif. In Men’s Open, Haig clinched the title with 1,600 points, and he won the title in 26-32 Men with 1,400 points.

Harrison helped lead the U.S. Veteran Water Ski Team to the overall team title after winning four individual medals at the 2006 World Senior Trophy, Oct. 24-29, at Thorlea Dam in Durban, South Africa. Harrison earned silver medals in Women's tricks (3,150 points), jumping (94 feet) and overall (3,186.38 points), and the bronze medal in slalom (1/2 at 35 off) in Veteran 2.

The U.S. Veteran Water Ski Team won the overall team gold medal and 11 U.S. athletes earned individual medals at the 2006 World Senior Trophy. U.S. athletes combined to win 20 medals, including five gold medals, at the biennial event.

Courtesy of USA Water Ski

Formula's Unlimited Hydroplane Takes First Place in National Points 11/02/06

DECATUR, IN-Team U-7 Formulaboats.com, one of two unlimited hydroplane teams sponsored by Formula powerboats, won the ABRA (American Boat Racing Association) National Team High Point title for the 2006 season! Going into the final race event of the season held September 15-17 at San Diego, California, the U-7 hull, driven by Mike Allen, had only 278 points separating it from the first-place position. The team earned two firsts and two seconds in the Friday and Saturday races, followed by a fourth-place finish in the final race, earning a 168-point lead to take the title! With the title win comes a new number for the team, earning the U-1 designator for the upcoming 2007 season.

According to the ABRA, "Rookie Mike Allen (Destrehan, La.) and first year owner Ted Porter (Decatur, Ind.) became the first rookie driver team to capture the Team National High Point title in the history of the sport. Allen guided the U-7 Formulaboats.com boat to the title...It was also the first time in 30 years since a first-year racing team won the National Team High Point Championship. Bill Muncey won the National High Point Championship with his first year Atlas Van Lines' team in 1976.

Team U-5 Formulaboats.com with driver Jeff Bernard, also sponsored by Formula, finished the season in sixth place, with the San Diego races yielding a first place and three second-place finishes in the qualifying heats and a fifth place in the final.

Highlights for the newly named U-1 and U-5 Formulaboats.com season include fastest qualifier in the Les Regates de Valleyfield event in Quebec; heat victories in Madison, Detroit and Tri-Cities, Washington; and several event podium finishes, including a first place for the Valleyfield race.

Anglers Quest 2006 Series Championship Wrap-Up 11/02/06

Anglers Quest 2006 Saturday Team Series Championship is now in the books, and the Saturday Series is complete for 2006. The event began on Friday October 27th, with the presentation of the special trophies to Anglers of the Year, Jeff Jackowski & Steve Cross.

The anglers were all going for the $10,925.00 purse which was the payback promised by A/Q at this Championship. The water at Lake Houston was a lot off color due to all the recent rains and was at approximately 1 ft above normal pool. The water at Lake Livingston, where the Day 2 took place, came up approximately 4 ft in 1 week to a very dirty level of 1 ft above normal pool.

The 22 teams brought in 3 limits of bass, 45 fish that totaled 94.81 lbs with a 2.10 avg. Day 2 produced 8 limits 57 fish-139.63 lbs and a 2.44 avg weight. After both days were complete there were 102 total bass caught with 11 limits-234.44 lbs and a 2.29 overall average weight. Overall the bait of choice was the spinner bait in the off colored water at both lakes.

Day 2 weigh-in was very exciting as all the field still had a shot at collecting a great check for fishing in this event.

The anglers all trailered to their choice of launch ramps on Lake Livingston and began fishing at 6:00 am. Jeff Stanley & Jimmy Emmons Jr from Humble, Tx brought 6 bass to the scales over the event to boost their 2-day total to 16.36 lbs and claim 5th place and $790.00. One of Stanley & Emmons bass was the 2nd BB of the event, a fine 4.24 lber. 4th place was claimed by Danny Isbell & Donald Gregg weighing a 2 day total of 9 bass at 18.44 lbs to claim $700.00. Ricky & Charlotte Guy from Humble, Tx brought in 9 bass for the 2 days to boost their total to 22.62 lbs and claim 3rd place and $1610.00. The team of Larry Cotten & Chris DiBerardino brought in another 5 bass limit to the scales, at 11.49 lbs to give them a 2 day total of 10 bass at 23.35 lbs to finish in 2nd place and collected a total of $2590.00. Greg Crawford & Jesse Johnson put together a very impressive 10 bass limit for 2 days that tipped the scales at 26.26 lbs to win this event. Greg & Jesse caught their bass in the mid lake area of the lake on spinner baits and soft plastics. For their win they pocketed $4575.00. The 1st Big Bass of the event, a 4.26 lber was brought to the scales on day 2 by Travis Robinson from Humble, Tx & Ruben DeLeon from Houston, Tx. That one bite netted them $660.00.

The 1st event for the 2007 season will be the Saturday Series Team event on Lake Livingston, January 6, 2007 which will be a trailering event with registration and sign up at Kickapoo Bait & Tackle.

Courtesy of FishingWorld.com

Water Ski Racing Teams Selected For 2007 Water Ski Racing World Championships 11/02/06

POLK CITY, Fla. - The National Water Ski Racing Association has announced the selections to the 2007 U.S. Elite Water Ski Racing Team, the U.S. Formula 2 Water Ski Racing Team and the U.S. Junior Water Ski Racing Team. Athletes selected to the teams will compete in the 2007 Water Ski Racing World Championships, May 10-20, in Rotorua, New Zealand. The teams were selected based upon performances during the 2006 marathon racing season, which consisted of 12 races. A five-person committee appointed by the NWSRA board of directors made the selections.

Athletes selected to the 2007 U.S. Elite Water Ski Racing Team were: Marshall Cole (Calabasas, Calif.), Kyle Cummings (Beaumont, Calif.), Todd Haig (Redlands, Calif.), Lacey Nordblad (Claremont, Calif.) and Katelin Wendt (Huntington Beach, Calif.). Andy Anderson (Riverside, Calif.) was selected the alternate.

The U.S. Elite Water Ski Racing Team won its fourth consecutive world team title at the 2005 Water Ski Racing World Championships in Hunstanton, England. The victory marked the United States' ninth world team title in the biennial event's 14 occurrences. Haig is the defending Men's world champion.

Athletes selected to the 2007 U.S. Formula 2 Water Ski Racing Team were: Glen Anderson (Studio City, Calif.), Brad Raine (Costa Mesa, Calif.), Janine Doherty (Oakley, Calif.) and Lori Dunsmore (Boulder City, Nev.). Doherty and Dunsmore earned silver and bronze medals, respectively, at the 2005 Worlds. The Formula 2 athletes compete for individual titles only.

Athletes selected to the 2007 U.S. Junior Water Ski Racing Team were: Brady Hoggins (Rialta, Calif.), Cameron King (Manhattan Beach, Calif.), Mallory Nordblad (Claremont, Calif.) and Jill Schadrack (Laguna Niguel, Calif.). Nordblad is the defending Junior Girls' world champion and will be attempting to become the first female to win two Junior Girls' world titles. The Junior athletes compete for individual titles only.

Bass Leads $1 Million Stren Series Championship on Wheeler Lake 11/02/06

DECATUR, Ala. – The final step toward qualifying for $2 million 2007 Forrest Wood Cup began in Decatur on November 1st with 197 pros and 197 co-anglers from 37 states and Japan competing in the $1 million Stren Series Championship on Wheeler Lake for top awards of $140,000 and $70,000, respectively. Not only will lucrative awards be handed out this week, but the Stren Series Championship will also send the first five pros and co-anglers to the world’s most lucrative bass tournament, where the pros will fish against qualifiers from the Wal-Mart FLW Tour, Wal-Mart FLW Series, Wal-Mart Bass Fishing League and The Bass Federation for as much as $1 million.

First things first, however. There is a lot of money at stake on Wheeler Lake this week and Southeast Division rookie Sam Bass of Section, Ala., isn’t leaving anything to chance. After qualifying for the Stren Series Championship as the No. 28 seed in his division, Bass caught five largemouths weighing 19 pounds, 14 ounces to lead day one of the four-day tournament.

Bass caught eight keepers throughout the day and lost one fish that he estimates would have pushed him over 20 pounds. All of the bass came on a topwater bait that he was throwing to grass in 5 feet of water on Decatur Flats. Bass doubts, however, that he’ll be fishing the same area Thursday.

Trailing Bass by 3 pounds is Spiderwire pro Bobby Lane of Lakeland, Fla., in second place with five bass weighing 16-4. Kellogg’s pro Dave Lefebre of Union City, Pa. (five bass, 15-10), Ricky Scott of Van Buren, Ark. (five bass, 14-5) and Mark Shepard of Labelle, Fla. (five bass, 14-5) rounded out the top five pros.

David Cioppa of Hopkinton, Ma., earned the day’s Snickers Big Bass award of $750 in the Pro Division with a 7-pound largemouth that he caught on a Strike King Bitsy Bug jig.

In the Co-angler Division, Thomas Szwankowski of Hope, Ark., leads the field with five bass weighing 12 pounds, 7 ounces. He fished with Justin Kerr of Simi Valley, Calif., who caught just one bass weighing 2 pounds.

Overall, 1,128 bass weighing 2,084 pounds, 8 ounces were caught by 187 pros and 161 co-anglers. There were 119 five-bass limits caught on opening day. More than 99 percent of the bass were released alive.

With 57 anglers, California has the largest contingent fishing the Stren Series Championship for the second consecutive season.

Anglers will take off from Ingalls Harbor at 7 each morning. Thursday’s weigh-in will also be held at Ingalls Harbor, which is located on Highway 20 W. in Decatur, beginning at 3 p.m.

SeaCAS Introduces Three New SafePassageAIS Models for Advanced Collision Avoidance 11/02/06

Kent, Wash. - SeaCAS, the award-winning leader in the design and manufacture of recreational collision avoidance systems, announced a new line of three Automatic Identification System (AIS) products, the SeaCAS SafePassageAIS™ 300, 150 and 100. The expanded SafePassageAIS line alerts boaters to potentially dangerous situations with approaching commercial vessels and gives boaters the option to choose a solution with the features that best suits their on-board electronics suite. In addition, keeping in custom with SeaCAS's renowned design, the new SafePassageAIS converter box simplifies installation with all PC and Mac-based navigation systems, and all AIS-ready radars and chartplotters.

The flagship SafePassageAIS 300 is a complete collision avoidance solution. Its dual function antenna combines a compact dual-frequency VHF and 16-channel dGPS receiver modules. The 300 is ideal for boaters who do not have AIS or GPS electronics on-board. The SafePassageAIS 150 offers all of the same functionality of the 300, but requires users to connect to their own AIS antenna to receive AIS signals. The 150's powerful GPS receiver provides positioning system redundancy, or serves as a ship’s sole guidance solution. Last but not least, the SafePassageAIS 100 provides boaters with a high-quality AIS receiver that connects to the vessel's navigation system and an owner-supplied AIS antenna. By leveraging installed technology, the 100 is an economical solution for integrating powerful collision avoidance capabilities.

For more information on these models visit seacas.com/

A Few Things to Watch Out For When You Store Your Boat Ashore This Winter 11/02/06

There are several reasons you might choose on facility over another when it’s time to store your boat ashore for the off-seasons: convenience (nearby is best), price (everybody likes to save money) and friends (who also store their boats there). Those are good reasons, to be sure, but they aren’t the only considerations when you choose a boatyard for winter storage.

Consider the 43’ powerboat that was blocked ashore for the winter in North Carolina. It toppled over one blustery, wet night when one of the jack stands supporting the hull sank in to the mud. The jack stand should have been resting on plywood but the boatyard didn’t bother (“We been doin’ it that way for years.”). Other boats have toppled over because jack stands were badly rusted or because there were too few to provide adequate support. These sorts of accidents aren’t unusual; one expert estimates that almost as many boat hulls are damaged by mishandling ashore as are damage by accidents in water. Some of the boats, like the one in North Carolina, were damaged suddenly because they weren’t blocked correctly or were dropped from a travelift. Many other boats are damaged slowly because they are stored, year after year, without sufficient support beneath the hull. When a hull becomes even slightly distorted, it causes problems ranging from poor engine alignment to broken stringers and even impaired performance underway. And while sudden accidents – dropped boats – are covered by insurance, losses that occur slowly as a result of “wear and tear” are not insured.

The most reliable support is provided by a custom made cradle, which is designed specifically to support critical areas of a boat – its engines, bulkheads, and keel. In other words, don’t store your boat on a cradle that was built for a different model boat. Steel cradles are best, but wood cradles will also do the job if they have been inspected for deteriorated wood and corroded fastenings. Shipping cradles are probably OK, but most will require some modification to improve lateral support before they can be used for prolonged storage.

Despite the advantages, storing cradles in the off-season is often a problem at many crowded boatyards, which rely instead on a combination of screw-type jack stands and timbers to support hulls. Most boatyards do a competent job of positioning the supports, but it never hurts to discuss technique with the yard manager before the boat is hauled.

Jack stands pads should be positioned against the hull so that the boat’s weight is directed down toward the ground. Misalignment of stands will force them out as the load is applied. Even if the stands are aligned perfectly, safety changes must be used to prevent them from slipping out from under the hull.

Jack stands should be placed as far out from the boat as practical to support the boat in high winds, with at least three per side for boats over 26’ and additional supports at long overhands. Plywood should be placed underneath each base to prevent it from sinking into mud, sand or even asphalt. Even when stands rest on clay that seems brick hard, they can be loosened by heavy spring rains, shift, and spill the boat.

While jack stands must be placed properly to prevent the boat from falling over, the boat’s weight typically rests on its keel. Some boats have specific requirements for support of the keel, but at least one manufacturer warns against putting weight on the keel. IF the marina manager isn’t familiar with your boat, check your manual or contact the manufacturer.

Keels must be supported by wide, think timbers – the wider the better to distribute the load. Cinder blocks are prone to breaking and should not be used. On powerboats, additional support is usually recommended for inboard engines, fuel tank and heavy machinery. With outboard and outdrive boats, weight should be taken off the transom by lowering the drive units onto a block. After the boat is blocked, sight along the hull and keel to make sure the hack stands aren’t depressing the hull. (Check again in two weeks, after the boat has had time to settle.) The deck must also be level, or water could pool and cause stains, mildew, and/or gel coat crazing.

Never secure the boat’s winter cover to the jack stands or support blocks. There are many accounts in the claim files of boats that fell over after stiff winds filled the covers and yanked the supports from under the boats. Finally, make sure they cover is supported adequately. Poorly supported covers will accumulate snow and water, which add considerable weight to the boat. Scuppers and drains should also be left open for the same reason – to channel water from the decks and cockpit.

Storage Racks and Trailers

An increasing number of boats are being stored ashore on dry storage racks. These racks are designed to support “typical” boat hulls, but can’t always be adjusted to support unusual or atypical designs. If you have doubts about the support provided by a rack, consult a marine surveyor or consider and alternative winter locations such as a trailer, which has adjustable rollers and pads to support critical areas.

Courtesy of BoatU.S.

Boater Survives Stingray Attack in Florida 10/19/06

Miami, FL—A leaping stingray stabbed an 81-year-old Florida boater in the chest, the authorities said on Wednesday, leaving its poisonous stinger lodged close to his heart in an incident recalling the one that killed the Australian television naturalist Steve Irwin last month.

Fire Department officials in Lighthouse Point, FL, about 30 miles north of Miami, said the man, James Bertakis, was in a small recreational boat with two grandchildren on Tuesday, October 17th, when the spotted eagle ray leaped aboard and struck him.

“It’s a real freak thing, “said Lt. Mike Sullivan, saying the incident occurred on the Intercoastal Waterway, where stingrays are rarely seen leaping in the air.

“For an 81-year-old-man, he’s in really good shape,” Lieutenant Sullivan added, saying Mr. Bertakis was expected to make a full recovery after surgery to have the stinger removed.

Mr. Irwin, 44, known as the Crocodile Hunter, died when a stingray’s stinger punctured his heart off Australia’s north coast last month. It was one of only a handful of stingray fatalities on record.

Woman Loses Foot in Boating Accident 10/18/06

A 60-year-old woman from Indian River lost her foot Friday, October 16th. when she fell off her cabin cruiser as it was trying to dock at the Silver Fox Marina in Summerside on Prince Edward Island, Canada.

The boat was being backed into its berth at the club. Lea Brown was on the diving platform trying to push the 30-foot cruiser away from another boat docked nearby when she lost her balance.

Police believe her foot was caught in a propeller.

Brown was taken to Prince County Hospital. A scuba diver retrieved the foot and took it to the hospital about a half hour later, but doctors were not able to reattach it. The incident is under police investigation.

Coming Soon...the Formulaboats.com Unlimited Hydroplane ABRA 2006 Season on FOX TV! 10/18/06

Fox Sports Network (FSN) in conjunction with Focused Sports TV and the American Boat Racing Association will air four of the seven races of the EnviroPly Unlimited Hydroplane Series starting Monday, October 23. The one-hour show will run every Monday at 3 p.m. local time for four consecutive weeks.

To read more about the Hydroplane TV times and listings, please click here.

5th India International Boat Show in Kochi 10/18/06

Thiruvananthapuram, India-- The fifth edition of the India International Boat Show (IIBS) will be held in Kerala's coastal town Kochi from Oct 20 to 22.

The Kerala Tourism event, which has attracted global attention, has been formatted as a business exhibition with special segments on leisure boating, marine equipment, and navigational and telecommunication aids.

International boating brands on display among the 60 odd exhibitors are Bayliner, Trophy, Ferretti, Walker Bay and Regal along with marine equipment market leaders like Garmin, Lalizas, Plastimo, Vetus den Ouden and Volvo Penta.

The event has been approved by the India Trade Promotion Organisation in New Delhi, India's nodal trade promotion organisation, and supported by various bodies like the Indian Navy, the coast guard and customs.

Raymarine to Offer Fishing Podcasts 10/18/06

Merrimack, N.H. – Raymarine, a world leader in marine electronics, announced the launch of its inaugural Podcast Series which features a number of interviews with fishing and boating experts and celebrities from around the country. Each of the 15-30 minute audio recordings will focus on a specific topic, ranging from trends in marine electronics to professional tips and tricks for fishing large game. The podcasts will be available for download from Raymarine’s Web site where new recordings will be posted on a regular basis.

The first podcast in the series, which is currently available on Raymarine’s site, is titled “From the Fly Bridge; The Advantages of Multifunction Displays” and features Captain Ray Rosher, one of the country’s best known and most respected fishing guides.

To download the Raymarine podcasts please visit their Web site at www.raymarine.com.

Sea Ray Introduces 210 Select for 2007 10/18/06

The new 2007 Sea Ray 210 Select is designed for that action-packed weekend and fun in the sport boat category. The 210 Select comes with impressive standard appointments, and carefully crafted interior space and sleek, classic exterior styling.

“Our designers have done a great job of listening to our customers’ needs," says Robin Brendle, vice president of sport boat sales at Sea Ray's corporate headquarters.

The 210 Select offers a choice of three distinct cockpit configurations, each with handsome, comfort-conscious, sought-after accoutrements. The options include a portside, convertible lounger with jump seats or an innovative, convertible aft sun pad lounger. Either of these recliners are perfect for basking in the warm sun or just relaxing at the water’s edge, off the integrated, extended swim platform with its safety-minded, slip-resistant rubber insert and three-step, stainless-steel ladder. The 210 Select was built for quality time on the water, right down to its matching trailer with swing-away tongue and surge brakes.

20 Ski Racing Athletes Earn Titles at US Open 10/18/06

Twenty of the world's top water ski racing athletes won titles Sunday October 15th, as the second annual Nordic Boats US Open Water Ski Racing National Championships concluded on Mission Bay, California. The three-day event was presented by the International Water Ski Racing Association and sanctioned by the National Water Ski Racing Association, a sport discipline of USA Water Ski since 1991.

Athletes competed in two rounds of sprint races on a 2-1/2-mile oval course located between East Vacation Isle and Fiesta Island. The athletes drew for pole positions, made a deep-water start at the drop of a green flag and raced in lanes for a designated number of laps. Athletes competed for titles in 23 age divisions and classes. Overall placements were determined by total number of points. In the event of a tie, total race time broke the tie.

For complete results click here.

Collegiate Wakeboard Nationals This Weekend 10/18/06

The sixth annual Collegiate Wakeboard National Championships will be held this weekend, October 20-22, at the Projects Wakeboard and Wakeskate Camp in Orlando, Fla. More than a hundred students are expected to compete for national titles in wakeboarding and wakeskating. Pulled by Supra Boats, more than 20 schools will fight for the championship title. The University of Central Florida won national titles in 2004 and 2005.

This year’s competition will feature seven divisions, giving riders of all abilities a chance to add points to their team score. Divisions include: Men’s Novice (1 invert or less); Men’s Intermediate (no more than 3 inverts); Men’s Outlaw (no more than 5 inverts); Men’s Pro (anything goes); Women’s Wakeboard (anything goes); Women’s Wakeskate; and Men’s Wakeskate.

The schedule includes: Quarterfinals on Friday, Oct. 20, Semifinals on Saturday, Oct. 21, and Finals and awards on Sunday, Oct. 22.

ULM Wins Collegiate Nationals 10/18/06

The University of Louisiana-Monroe avenged its 2005 loss to arch-rival and defending champion the University of Louisiana-Lafayette by winning the team title in convincing fashion as the 2006 Collegiate Water Ski National Championships concluded Saturday. Twelve of the nation’s top collegiate water ski teams competed for the Division 1 team title as well as individual titles at Bell Acqua Lakes in Rio Linda, Calif.

After leading the race for the team title throughout the three-day event, ULM finished in first place after generating 12,040 points. ULL came in second with 11,670 points and Florida Southern College finished third for the second consecutive year with 10,430 points.

Hibdon Wins $900,000 Wal-Mart FLW Series Event 10/18/06

Osage Beach, MO. – Chevy Pro Dion Hibdon of Stover, Mo., held on for a $100,000 win Saturday, October 14 in the Wal-Mart FLW Series tournament on Lake of the Ozarks after successfully fending off another Chevy Pro Larry Nixon of Bee Branch, Ark., who trailed by just 3 pounds and 11 ounces entering the final day of competition. Hibdon ended the $900,000 tournament with a five-bass catch weighing 19 pounds, 9 ounces to boost his four-day total to 20 bass weighing 71-8.

Hibdon finished in the No. 2 spot on opening day with five bass weighing 21-9. He then grabbed first place on day two with a five-bass catch weighing 16-2 that pushed his two-day total to 10 bass weighing 37-11. On Friday he caught another solid limit, weighing 14-4, to retain control of first place heading into the final round with a total catch of 15 bass weighing 51-15.

Larry Nixon of Bee Branch, Ark., who finished 25th on opening day then jumped to sixth place on day two only to climb into third on day three, came up 6-pounds, 4-ounces short on day four. He caught five bass weighing 17-1 Saturday and finished the tournament with a total of 20 bass weighing 65-5 to earn $50,000.

Rounding out the top five co-anglers were David Lawson of Richmond, Ky. (13 bass, 29-9, $10,000); Gayle Jullian of Bakersfield, Mo. (eight bass, 26-1, $9,000); Bill Gift of Alix, Ark. (nine bass, 25-6, $8,000) and Jim Short of Ocean Pines, Md. (10 bass, 24 pounds, $7,000).

Overall, 44 bass weighing 123 pounds, 13 ounces were caught by the top 10 pros Saturday, including 7 five-bass limits.

$1 Million Stren Series Championship Set to Kick Off on Wheeler Lake 10/18/06

DECATUR, Ala. — The $6 million Stren Series is headed to Wheeler Lake in Decatur, Ala., Nov. 1-4 for the $1 million Stren Series Championship, where the winning pro will take home as much as $140,000 in cash and prizes and the winning co-angler will earn as much as $70,000 in cash and prizes.

Anglers will take off from Ingalls Harbor at 7 each morning. Wednesday and Thursday’s weigh-ins will also be held at Ingalls Harbor, which is located on Highway 20 W. in Decatur, beginning at 3 p.m. As part of the festivities, Lynn Layton Chevrolet, located at 2416 Highway 31 S. in Decatur, will host Chevy Pro Night on Wednesday, Nov. 1, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Two hundred pros and 200 co-anglers (the top 40 based on points standings from each of the Stren Series’ five divisions) will compete for two days on Wheeler Lake to determine the top 10 pros and top 10 co-anglers who will advance to the final round based on their two-day accumulated weight. Weights are cleared for the final round and co-angler competition concludes on day three with the winner determined by the day’s heaviest catch. Pro competition concludes on day four, with the winner determined by the heaviest accumulated weight from days three and four.

The winning pro will earn an Evinrude- or Yamaha-powered Ranger 519VX equipped with Lowrance electronics, a Minn Kota trolling motor and EverStart batteries plus $50,000 cash. If the winner is the original owner of a qualifying Ranger boat powered by an Evinrude or Yamaha outboard that is used during the tournament, he will also receive a $25,000 bonus from Ranger and an additional $25,000 Evinrude/Yamaha bonus for a total award of $140,000. The winning co-angler will receive a fully rigged Ranger 519VX plus $15,000 cash. If the winning co-angler meets Ranger and Evinrude or Yamaha contingency guidelines, he will also receive bonuses totaling $15,000 for a total award of $70,000.

Bell Best Boater in Regional Championship on Kerr Lake 10/18/06

Henderson, N.C. — Boater Rodney Bell of Salisbury, N.C., earned a fully rigged Ranger 519VX and a new Chevy truck Saturday, October 14th as winner of the Wal-Mart Bass Fishing League Regional Championship on Kerr Lake. The top 40 boaters and the top 40 co-anglers from the Gator, Savannah River, Shenandoah and South Carolina divisions competed in the three-day event.

Bell’s winning three-day catch of 12 bass weighed 34 pounds, 1 ounce. In addition to the new truck and boat, Bell also earned a $1,000 Ranger Cup bonus and a ticket to compete in the 2007 $1 million Wal-Mart Bass Fishing League All-American.

The top six boaters and the top six co-anglers at the regional championship earned a spot to compete in the All-American. Rounding out the top six boaters were James Edwards of Greenville, S.C. (eight bass, 23 pounds, $4,000); David Wright of Lexington, N.C. (11 bass, 22 pounds, 11 ounces, $2,000); Richard Heath Jr. of Beaverdam, Va. (nine bass, 22 pounds, 1 ounce, $1,600); Ricky Shumpert of Lexington, S.C. (nine bass, 22 pounds, 1 ounce, $1,200); and Jim Folks of Melbourne, Fla. (10 bass, 21 pounds, 8 ounces, $1,000).

Mark Robertson of Henderson, N.C., earned a new Ranger boat as the co-angler winner, thanks to a three-day total of eight bass weighing 18 pounds, 14 ounces.

Rounding out the top six co-anglers were Clint Sterling of Oakland, Fla. (six bass, 15 pounds, 9 ounces, $2,000); Joe Bridges of Robbinsville, N.C. (six bass, 14 pounds, 11 ounces, $1,000); Steve Hoffman of Simpsonville, S.C. (four bass, 13 pounds, 4 ounces, $800); Billy Reed of Yorktown, Va. (six bass, 12 pounds, 5 ounces, $600); and Dennis Medlin of Anderson, S.C. (five bass, 11 pounds, 10 ounces, $500).

Martineau and Pierog Target Largemouth and Win NHBF Squam Lake Fall Open 10/18/06

The New Hampshire Bass Federation held its final Open of the year on Sunday October 1, 2006. With another long season drawing to a close, only 33 teams braved the dreary forecast to fish Squam Lake out of Holderness NH. October and cold fronts usually spell trouble for anglers and today was no different. Many teams struggled to catch any fish at all, but with the year end points race being hotly contested, several teams fished hard right to the final gun. Still only five limits came to the scales.

Choosing to target Squam Lake’s burgeoning largemouth bass population and scoring a 7 fish creel worth 22.20 lbs was the team of Ray Martineau and Mike Pierog. This Massachusetts team focused on largies exclusively and utilized spider jigs and Senkos in 5 to 10 feet of water in areas that had a combination of rock and wood. Their big fish came in at 4.07 lbs and helped them secure nearly a three-pound margin of victory. Their first place finish netted them $1140.

Employing a completely different strategy and targeting smallmouth bass, the team of John Fortier and Dave Fontane secured second place with an 8 fish limit that weighed 19.46 lbs. John and Dave employed Carolina rigged lizards and small worms on a drop-shot rig in 40-45 feet of water to catch their fish. They reported catching 25 keepers throughout the day. They earned $840 for their runner-up finish.

With the final tournament of the year in the books, the year-end awards were also determined at this event. Winning Team of the Year honors for the second year in a row was the team of Dave Andrews and Scott Leppanen who just beat out fellow Back Bay club-mates Jim and Tyler Hanatow who finished just 4 points behind. Tom Sinclair and Corey Roux finished in third place for the season.

The Angler of the year for the second time in the last four years goes to Scott Leppanen of Byfield Massachusetts. Scott remained consistent all year long and sealed the title with his 4th place finish on Squam Lake. Scott will enjoy another year of fully paid entries in 2007 and will have to make room for another trophy on his mantle.

The Club Angler of the Year, actually earned at the Ossipee Lake STQT, goes to our new State Champion, Mark Anthony from the Castaways who will also enjoy a free year of entry fees in 2007 courtesy of the NHBF.

Courtesy of FishingWorld.com

Honda Marine Announces Pricing for New 75 and 90-hp Models 10/11/06

Honda Marine announced pricing for its new BF75hp and BF90hp engines. Arriving in Honda Marine dealerships in January, 2007, the BF75 remote control model is priced starting at $8,995, while the BF90 enters the market at $9,585.

Completely redesigned for 2007, the Honda Marine BF90 and BF75 4-stroke outboard engines offer boaters two models that provide immediate response coupled with smooth, powerful acceleration and fuel efficiency in both fresh and salt water.

Both products deliver virtually smoke-free performance and meet California Air Resource Board (CARB) 3-Star requirements, which are 20 percent lower than those federally mandated by the EPA.

Coast Guard Annual 'Boating Statistics' Report is a Must-Read 10/11/06

The Coast Guard's annual Boating Statistics report is an enthralling detailed account of recreational boating mishaps.

By law, states are required to report to the Coast Guard boating accidents if a person dies, a person is injured and requires medical treatment, or damage to a boat that exceeds $2,000.

Some of the most recent report's findings:
• ''In 2005, states reported a total of 12,942,414 registered recreational boats compared to 12,781,476 in 2004. The 4,969 boating accidents reported in 2005 reported 697 fatalities, 3,451 injuries and $39 million in property damage.''
• ''Approximately 70 percent of all fatal boating accident victims drowned. Moreover, 80 percent of the victims who drowned were not wearing a life jacket. Overall, fatal accident data show approximately 426 lives could have been saved last year if boaters had worn jackets."
• ''The most reported type of accident was a collision with another vessel; however, capsizing and falls overboard are the most reported types of fatal accidents and accounted for the vast majority of all boating fatalities.''
• ''Overall, carelessness /reckless operation, operator inattention, excessive speed and operator inexperience are the leading contributing factors of all reported accidents,'' the report said.
• A common response to boaters who have participated in a boating safety course is how shocked they are on how vulnerable they were on the water before they learned how to handle a boat with expertise.
• ''The most common types of boats involved in reported accidents were open motorboats, personal watercraft and cabin motorboats. Increases were also observed in the number of reported fatalities involving personal water craft, inflatable boats and sailboats.''
• ''Twenty-one children 12 and under lost their lives while boating in 2005 compared to 14 in 2004.'
• ''Approximately 70 percent of all boating fatalities occurred on boats where the operator had not received boating-safety instruction.''

For the complete Report go to http:www.uscgboating.org.

Baja Launches the New 277 Islander for 2007 10/11/06

Baja Marine speeds into the 2007 model year with the brand-new 277 Islander, the flagship of the Islander series.

The 277 Islander offers Baja fans ample room for all their friends and toys combined with Baja’s signature speed and performance. Baja has also recently introduced the 26 Outlaw, continuing to sharpen its focus on its core performance line-up.

Known for style, speed and performance, the 277 Islander pulls right into place in Baja’s full-throttle lineup, with even more innovative features. Owners can opt for the more traditional straight bench seat or for the new, W-shaped seating that provides additional seating in the cockpit and an open walkway to the swim platform. Plus, higher gunnels ensure safety when blasting down favorite waters, while Baja’s True-V hull plows through chop easily.

With room for 10, an enclosed head and a 25-quart, built-in cooler, the 277 Islander extends the life of the party. For added comfort, bow seats hinge like lounge chairs. And water sports fiends will thrill at the storage compartments located both underneath and within the motor lid top and designed to hold water skis and wakeboards. Separate anchor storage under the front bow seat leaves additional room for passengers and keeps the seating area clutter-free.

To learn more about the new 277 Islander and the rest of Baja’s full-throttle lineup, please visit www.bajamarine.com

5 Indicted In 'Fast Boat' Theft Ring 10/11/06

Federal investigators said they have busted a boat theft ring and indicted five suspects after an investigation that began in Jacksonville.

The U.S. Attorney's Office said the suspects were stealing high-performance boats and then selling them.

The case originally began when Jacksonville Beach police investigated a boat theft. They contacted other agencies, dealing with similar thefts.

Prosecutors said the suspects took boats from several places around Florida, and from Southern Georgia, and moved them to the Miami area. They said the defendants changed the boat identification numbers, then fraudulently registered the boats.

The defendants allegedly sold most of the boats, but kept some for their own use.

Investigators said they've recovered a total of 38 stolen boats with a total value of $4 million.

Friday's Condition Improving 10/11/06

Dallas Friday, widely considered the best female wakeboard rider in the history of the sport, suffered a broken femur during the IWSF Wakeboard World Cup event on Oct. 1 on the Bedok Reservoir. After undergoing surgery to repair the fracture, the 20-year-old was then treated for acute respiratory distress syndrome. She was listed in critical, but stable condition for about a week.

Dallas Friday’s condition is continuing to improve. The U.S. wakeboard athlete was taken off a ventilator on Sunday, Oct. 8, that was used to support her breathing during her recovery. She is now breathing on her own and is no longer sedated. She is alert and is able to communicate with her family, according to information released by the Singapore Water Ski & Wakeboard Federation.

"We are pleased with the excellent care she has received here in Singapore,” said her father, Robin Friday, in a statement. ”Special thanks go to Changi General Hospital, the Singapore Water Ski and Wakeboard Federation and their incredible staff who have provided so much more than the round-the-clock care and support throughout this challenging time. My family is eternally grateful to Changi General Hospital and the Singapore Waterski and Wakeboard Federation. Dallas has become one of their own. Thank you for all your prayers and support for Dallas and please continue to pray for her recovery.”

Courtesy of USAWaterski.org

Boatmen Out of Their Gourds! 10/11/06

One of the most visited attractions at the Minnesota State Fair is the display of giant vegetables. Eight-hundred pound pumpkins always leave some asking, what's next? What do you do with an enormous orange gourd?

Well in Maine, they turn them into boats. Yes, they attach motors and have a regatta.

In Damariscotta, Maine Monday, some giant pumpkin growers took their gourds to the Damariscotta River and put on a show.

These pumpkin regattas are apparently quite popular in other states and in Canada, but we haven't heard of any yet in Minnesota, but they're sure to come, given the large numbers of huge pumpkins farmers here display every year.

The Maine growers putted around in pumpkins that weighed 741 pounds and 812 pounds

Courtesy of KARE 11 Minnesota

Fatal Boating Accident on Lake Oroville, CA- Driver Booked for Felony DUI 10/11/06

A 22-year old Torrance man died after a boating accident on Lake Oroville Friday, and the boat's operator was booked for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Daniel Lee Burkett died after falling out of a boat while it was in motion in the South Fork of Lake Oroville. He was run over by the boat and struck by the propeller, according to Supervisor and California State Parks Ranger Denise Reichenberg.

The operator of the boat, Steven Ettlin, 22, of San Juan was booked into the Butte County Jail for Gross Vehicular Manslaughter with a Vessel while Intoxicated. The court date for Ettlin's arraignment is Thursday.

An autopsy is scheduled this week to determine the cause of death, said Chief Deputy Coroner Lt. John Kuhn of the Butte County Sheriff's Office.

"We are conducting a criminal investigation," Reichenberg said.

Reichenberg said this accident was a tragedy and recommends all boaters take a boater safety course and learn about safety rules and regulations.

Team Castrol, in a Hydra-Sports 3300, Named Wal-Mart FLW Kingfish Tour Team of the Year 10/11/06

Team Castrol - consisting of Captain Nick Parrish of Jacksonville, Fla., his son, Vann Parrish, and three friends, Lon Layton, Kenneth Dewitt and James Grieger - earned the Wal-Mart FLW Kingfish Tour Team of the Year award following the tour’s final regular-season stop Sept. 21 in Southport, N.C. Parrish and his team will now advance to the FLW Kingfish Tour Championship Nov. 9-11 in Mount Pleasant, S.C., as the No. 1 seed with 759 points out of a possible 800.

"We are totally thrilled," said Parrish, whose team runs a Hydra-Sports Vector 3300CC powered by triple Yamaha F250 horsepower outboards. "We had a great time this year and everything seemed to fall into place. We still can’t believe it. I think I am still on cloud nine. We are fired up about the championship and next year even. We are just ready to go fishing. It was great to finish this well when we are fishing against this caliber of fishermen, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this sport."

Team Castrol trailed Team Triple Gobble by two points going into the Southport tournament, and they knew they were going to have to fish hard to take the Team of the Year crown. Ultimately, that is exactly what they did, finishing in 11th place and squeezing by Triple Gobble by 11 points.

Consistency was the name of the game for Team Castrol as they netted two top-10 finishes (eighth at Sarasota, Fla., and fourth at Beaufort, S.C.) along with an 11th-place showing at Southport and a 22nd-place finish at Fort Pierce, Fla.

While the team will be far from their home waters in Jacksonville, they say they are ready to make a run for the championship title, as Mount Pleasant is just 50 miles up the coast from Beaufort, the site of their best finish this season.

Collegiate Water Ski Nationals Coming To Rio Linda, Calif. 10/11/06

Twelve of the nation’s top collegiate water ski teams will compete for Division 1 titles at the 2006 Collegiate Water Ski National Championships, Oct. 12-14, in Rio Linda, Calif. Sacramento State and the Sacramento State Aquatic Center are teaming up to host the 28th annual event at Bell Acqua Lakes. The site is located just outside of Sacramento.

The Division 1 competition includes the top-three teams from each of the National Collegiate Water Ski Association’s four regions from across the United States. Teams competing in Division 1 are: Alabama, Arizona State, Auburn, California San Diego, Florida Southern College, Illinois, Louisiana-Lafayette, Louisiana-Monroe, Purdue, Sacramento State, Texas and Wisconsin.

At the 2005 Collegiate Water Ski Nationals, Louisiana-Lafayette rallied from a seemingly insurmountable 190-point deficit to win its second national title in three years. Louisiana-Lafayette shocked arch-rival and defending champion Louisiana-Monroe by just 15 points in the final tally.

Nine teams will compete in the Division 2 tournament: Chico State, Cal Poly, San Diego State, Georgia College, Kansas, Louisiana Tech, Marquette, Michigan and North Carolina.

National team champions will be declared in both divisions. Individual medals for slalom, tricks and jumping will be awarded based on athletes’ placements within their division. Overall titles will be awarded in each division to athletes competing in all three events.

Courtesy of USAWaterski.org

Ranger’s Redesigned 619VS: Bigger Is Better 10/11/06

Rough, open water is nothing new to multi-species anglers. In pursuit of walleye, musky and other species, these devoted anglers need a boat that delivers the horsepower necessary to make light work of long runs without sacrificing the fishability they expect from their fishing boat. Since its release, the Ranger 619VS has fulfilled this need. But for the 2007 model year, the 619VS is redesigned to give anglers more power, space and peace of mind, making it an even better choice for multi-species use.

The 619VS is now longer, measuring 19 feet, 6 inches with a broader beam of 96 inches. The increase in length means that this impressive fishing boat is now rated for a maximum 225 horsepower. These redesigns bolstered the vessel's ability to handle rougher water and longer runs without affecting the boat's fishability. This top-of-line multi-species fishing boat boasts plenty of fishing room, abundant storage and plenty of power.

Available in both single- and dual-console models, the new 619VS has four all-weather SRS fold-down seats, two having adjustable pedestals and can be moved to the front and rear decks for the ultimate in comfort while fishing. Storage includes a center rod locker under the front deck, four large storage compartments (two in the front, two in the rear), built-in cooler and baitwell, as well as a 50-inch recirculating livewell with automatic timers center mounted on the stern. Equipped with state-of-the-art Lowrance electronics at the console and rigged with a NEMA backbone for easier rigging of additional electronics, this boat is also available with a wide range of precision-matched outboards. The instrumentation panel includes speedometer, tach, fuel, trim and water pressure gauges.

Click here for more information on the Ranger 619VS

Sea-Doo Launches New 23-Foot Sport Boat Series 10/11/06

All-new 2007 Sea-Doo 230 Challenger and 230 WAKE sport boats enter the mid-size arena with innovations and futuristic designs.

Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP) is expanding its sport boat line up by launching the 2007 Sea-Doo® 230 Challenger* and 230 WAKE models. These 23-foot (7m) Sea-Doo sport boats, the largest craft ever offered by BRP, deliver trend-setting designs, spirited performance and meaningful innovations to the mid-size runabout category.

The new Sea-Doo 230 series offers more performance, versatility and sociability, thanks to the unique design of the platform, a new innovative retractable windshield option, a patent-pending fold and stow cockpit door, room for twelve passengers and a choice of 310 hp or 430 hp Rotax® 4-TEC® marine engine packages.

Visit wwww.sea-doo.com for complete specifications on these new models.

The CITGO Bassmaster Northern Tour on Lake Erie 10/5/06

Sandusky, Ohio— Thursday October 5th, Joe Balog of Harrison Township, Mich., took the Day 1 lead in the CITGO Bassmaster Northern Tour event on Lake Erie with 23 pounds, 12 ounces of largemouth bass, besting second-place holder Paul Noechel of Lost Creek, W.Va., by more than 8 pounds.

Heavy winds and high waves plagued anglers on Thursday, the first day of the three-day event. Several said they were forced to give up on planned runs to key water and instead stayed inside Sandusky Bay, which offered more protection.

Noechel, 50, finished the first day in second place with a limit of largemouth that weighed 15 pounds, 7 ounces. Noechel said that during practice earlier in the week, he focused on locating an area he felt would produce a limit no matter how badly weather might kick up the water on Thursday.

Joe Cox, 20, of DeBary, Fla., held third place with a limit of largemouth bass weighing 14 pounds, 10 ounces. He was one of only 13 pros who brought a limit to the scales on Thursday. In fourth was Sam Lashlee of Camden, Tenn., with 13-12. In fifth was Bassmaster Elite Series pro Jami Fralick of Martin, S.D., with 12-14.

On the co-angler side, Mark Harcharik of Cleveland, Ohio, led on Day 1 with 13 pounds. Included in his limit was a 4-10 largemouth that took Purolator Big Bass co-angler honors and earned him a $400 bonus. Trailing Harcharik were Craig Schmidt of Columbus, Neb., with 8-9; Brad Brodnicki of Buffalo, N.Y., with 8-6; Lee Pilz of Wawaka, Ind., with 6-14; and John Terry of Mansfield, Ohio, with 6-7.

Anglers on the pro side are vying for a first-place payout of $30,000 in cash and a Triton boat rig worth $45,000. Co-anglers are up against each other for a top prize of a Triton boat package valued at $30,000. Total payout for the tournament is $324,650 in cash and merchandise to the top 60 pros; the top 50 co-anglers share a payout of $68,800 in prizes.

Courtesy of FishingWorld.com

New Honda 75-hp and 90-hp Outboards Introduced 10/5/06

Honda Marine announced last week the introduction of two new outboard engines – a 75-hp and a 90-hp – that might send chills up the spine of their competition.

First, at 359 lbs. it is the lightest 4-stroke in its horsepower range, as much as 44 pounds lighter than at least one 4-stroke in its class.

Second, Honda has what they call “BLAST” -- for Boosted Low Speed Torque – which advances the ignition timing from a standing start with pedal-to-the metal that results in explosive hole shots.

Third, this 1.5 liter, 16 valve, in-line four cylinder engine is the same engine used in Honda Motor’s best-selling car, the FIT – so it promises to be the most reliable outboard on the market. The engine has been put through more testing and actual use than virtually any outboard on the market, except Honda’s own 225-hp engine that is also a light truck engine. This is a big reason why Honda has won the JD Power and Associates award for customer satisfaction the last two years running.

There are a number of other innovations that Honda Marine has built into the engine including an oxygen sensor that adjusts the air/fuel mixture to speed and load while maximizing the power and fuel economy between 2000 and 4000 rpms, a three way cooling system that the company says keeps the head cooler than the block for reduced engine wear, and their VTEC™ system which engages a high output cam lobe at high rpm for greater high-end performance.

Both the new 75-hp and 90-hp units have 44 amp alternators which provides 35 amps to the battery, according to Honda, along with a patented multi-layer paint process to fight off saltwater corrosion.

Both products deliver virtually smoke-free performance (we saw no smoke at all during a day of testing) and meet California Air Resource Board (CARB) 3-Star requirements, which are 20 percent lower than those federally mandated by the EPA.

The BF90 and BF75 boast an Engine Alert System that uses visual, audio and rpm reduction circuits to alert the operator of conditions which contribute to engine damage, such as overheating, low oil pressure and over-revving. So, no matter how blind or hard-of-hearing you may be, these instruments are going to get the message through to you that something is wrong and you had better shut the engine down.

By the way, those little chips in the Honda engine – and most other brands, too – will record how you ran the equipment. So the days of trying to pull one over on the warrantee mechanic are over.

The Honda BF90 engine is available in both 25-inch and 20-inch shaft models, while the BF75 comes in a 20-inch shaft length.

Honda says that it has built over 20 million engines over the years for all sorts of applications including cars, trucks, ATVs, Indy cars, and PWC's in addition to their outboards.

Complete media information on these and other Honda Marine products is available on-line at www.hondamarine.com

4 Fishermen Rescued After 24 Hours in Sea 10/5/06

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., (AP) Four men who decided to swim to safety when their boat capsized about 15 miles offshore were rescued Sunday after spending up to 24 hours in the Atlantic Ocean, the Coast Guard said.

“Everyone is in good condition and reunited with their families,” Petty Officer Donnie Brzuska said.

Five men were fishing in a 17-foot boat when it began taking on water and capsized about 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 30th, Petty Officer Brzuska said.

Four of them put on life jackets and swam for shore, Petty Officer Brzuska said. A fifth man, Chip Bloomer, stayed with the capsized boat and was rescued by another boater on Saturday night.

The four men who swam for shore were separated over night. A Coast Guard rescue crew picked up two of them, John Hodgkiss and Travis Britt, about six miles from shore around 8:20 a.m. Sunday October 1st, Petty Officer Brzuska said. Ten minutes later, a Navy helicopter spotted the third, Mike Vitko, and guided a rescue boat to pick him up.

Rescuers spotted the fourth, Clinton Daughtry, about four hours later. He was pulled from the water by an Air Force helicopter, Petty Officer Brzuska said.

Mr. Daughtry had hypothermia and was flown to a Jacksonville hospital, Petty Officer Brzuska said. He is expected to survive.

Once again the basic rule in a capsize situation is proven true; the first man to be rescued stayed with the boat. All of the other men were picked up later and were lucky to be alive.

As someone once said, "God looks after drunks, children, and boatmen."

The 310 Super Sport-All-New Entry in the Formula Sun Sport Line-up 10/5/06

The Formula 310 Sun Sport introduces a whole new era of good times on the water. Including all the successful hallmark features of the Formula SS series, the 310 offers even more cockpit comfort and versatility at 31´ in length with a 9´ 6" beam. Twin command seating which individually adjusts for either sitting or standing faces a handsome brushed metallic and burl wood-finish helm complete with Livorsi® illuminated instrumentation and accessory rocker switches with circuit breakers. The sporty steering wheel is also inset with metallic and burl woodgrain. Along with the dash-mounted, full-feature stereo remote control and four cockpit marine-grade speakers, an up-to-date new feature is the iPod/MP3 port at the helm. Well proportioned, molded steps lead to the walk-thru windshield and on to the nonskid foredeck center walkway for easier line handling and anchoring. The windshield top frame, as well as the cleats and rails, are 316L stainless steel.

The portside cockpit lounge forward conceals deep storage and effectively secures dive tanks and other gear. The U-shaped lounge and table arrangement along with an extensive, feature-loaded wetbar with genuine Corian® countertop welcomes spur-of-the-moment entertaining. All seating is contoured for comfort and executed in rugged transportation grade upholstery over special Dri-Fast® foam that water freely drains through. Utilizing rotocast shapes along with polyurethane marine paneling effectively eliminates all wood in the 310 cockpit construction.

An important feature of the 310 Sun Sport is the aft facing transom lounge that easily puts the focus on in-water activities while at anchor, and then cleverly converts to a generous sunpad for relaxed sunning. At the transom, a flush-mounted, stereo remote control with two marine-grade speakers along with a convenient transom shower add to all-day enjoyment on the water. Smoothly finished transom storage consists of a large compartment beneath the aft facing lounge and a trunk-style locker to starboard, so there's plenty of room for the two fenders and lots of gear. A 316L stainless ski tow eye is permanently installed for various water sports. For safe boarding in the evening, swim platform and cockpit courtesy lighting illuminates in response to a hand-held remote control.

The Formula 310 takes full advantage of cabin space to provide a comfortable U-shaped lounge with a high-gloss, solid-wood table plus filler cushions to create a berth. The high-gloss Deep Cherry woodgrain entertainment center includes a stainless steel refrigerator, and the stainless steel sink is set in a handcrafted Corian countertop. The AM/FM/CD stereo with high-power output and changer control, along with the cabin's two marine grade speakers for a total of eight speakers, serve the entire boat with favorite sounds. A microwave oven, LCD TV/DVD player and 10-disc CD changer with subwoofer and iPod docking station are among a number of popular available options. Cabin décor is offered in three beautiful color themes to complement the exterior graphic chosen from an extensive variety of standard and available Imron® selections. The finest fabrics, custom-patterned carpet and luxurious Ultraleather™ upholstery are applied to detailed perfection. In the smoothly molded head compartment, the Vacuflush® unit is equipped with a holding tank below deck. The stainless steel sink is set in a Corian countertop, and an available retractable handheld shower wand completes the necessary amenities.

For more information visit www.formulaboats.com

New Flagship from Sabre Yachts: The Sabre 52 Salon Express 10/5/06

Sabre Yachts will be expanding its model line-up yet again with the February 2007 introduction of the Sabre 52 Salon Express. The first Sabre 52 Salon Express will be completed by early January 2007.

”We continue to have a healthy demand from dealers and customers for a full range of Sabre motoryachts, “ said Daniel Zilkha, Chief Executive Officer of Sabre Yachts. “The Sabre 52 Salon Express is the latest expression of that demand, tailored to the larger yacht market,” he said.

The Sabre 52 is the largest motoryacht in the company’s history. She features the classic “Downeast” styling, extraordinary craftsmanship and performance for which Sabre Yachts is so well known. “Working on this scale has allowed us to incorporate a number of exceptional design features, and many of them were inspired by in-depth discussions with our dealers and customers, “ said Bentley Collins, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Sabre Yachts. “The 52 will delight her owners many times over as they discover all of the design and performance innovations,” he said.

Our guess is that with all of the very satisfied Sabre 42 owners out there, buyers should get their orders in quickly to avoid a long wait.

For more information visit www.sabreyachts.com

Mercury Racing’s New NXT SSM Drive 10/5/06

FOND DU LAC, Wis. – Mercury Racing, the engine company's "Skunk Works" headed up by Fred Kiekhaefer, has expanded the versatility of the popular 700 SCi sterndrive engine package with the availability of the all-new NXT1 Super Speed Master (SSM) drive. The NXT1 SSM drive features a dry-sump Six drive coupled to the NXT1 transom plate and the dry-sump NXT1 transmission. The drive is designed for boats with natural bow lift using minimal trim. These select hulls, including stepped vee-bottoms and catamarans, require the drives to be mounted higher on the transom for maximum efficiency and optimal boat performance. The increased drive height or X-Dimension requires the use of hull mounted water pickups for engine cooling.

The NXT1 SSM drive offers OEM boat builders and consumers the benefit of using the legendary dry-sump Six drive with the engine mounted in the same location as a Bravo drive set-up thanks to Mercury Racing’s exclusive NXT1 transmission design. The compact size of the transmission enables builders to install the engine in the same location (fore and aft) as a standard Bravo in close couple applications. The transmission design allows for use of a "driveline kit" for forward engine applications. The Bravo XR drive, combined with the Mercury Racing PCM control strategies, received high marks in customer satisfaction in regards to shifting. The Mercury Racing NXT1 transmission features a Bravo-like cone clutch mechanism – resulting in smooth shifting characteristics.

Both the drive and transmission feature dry-sump lubrication for higher efficiency and reduced operating temperatures. The unique through-hull location of the compact transmission enables the transmission to be installed after the engine is first mounted. This “reverse install” feature is especially handy in boats with limited engine room space. Access to the transmission from the transom also allows the transmission to be removed and serviced without having to pull the complete engine. The removable transom assembly cowl, modeled after the Integrated Transom System (ITS), enables easier access and servicing to various transom components.

For additional information on the 700 SCi - NXT1 drive package visit www.mercuryracing.com

Kjelden, Swank lead Wal-Mart FLW Walleye Tour Championship 10/5/06

PIERRE, S.D. – The most lucrative walleye-fishing tournament in the nation is officially under way on Lake Oahe with 51 pros and 51 co-anglers representing 18 states and Canada searching for the right combination of fish to win top awards of $150,000 and $22,000, respectively.

Many of the anglers competing in the $675,000 Wal-Mart FLW Walleye Tour Championship opted to run north from the launch site at Spring Creek Resort to the Highway 212 bridge on opening day Wednesday, October 4, but not BFGoodrich Tires pro Dustin Kjelden of Brookings, S.D., and co-angler Flo Swank of Pierre, S.D. Instead, the pair opted to fish away from the pack in an area of the lake only three other boats were fishing. They did plenty of running, though, as they burned an estimated 45 gallons of fuel combing through several key areas before returning with a tournament-leading catch of five walleyes weighing 19 pounds, 3 ounces that gave them a solid 2-pound, 5-ounce lead over their closest competitors, Ranger pro Kevin McQuoid of Isle, Minn., and co-angler Adam Adler of Oconto Falls, Wis.

“The bite slowed down a bit today compared with practice, but we were fortunate to catch a few quality fish,” said Kjelden, who weighed in the day’s biggest fish, a 26-inch, 6-pound, 3-ounce walleye. “I was confident I could catch at least 15 pounds, but the big fish was a surprise. It’s the biggest fish I’ve caught since I’ve been here.”

His big bite might have been the result of some good fortune, but Kjelden is no stranger to the leaderboard. He won the 2005 FLW Walleye Tour stop on Devils Lake and entered the championship this season ranked 18th.

Each pair of anglers is allowed to weigh five walleyes per day and all but two of the fish must be between 14 and 20 inches in length. Two fish over 20 inches may be weighed, and culling is not allowed.

Pros and co-anglers are randomly paired each day and fish for a combined boat weight. Pros compete against other pros, and co-anglers compete against other co-anglers. The full field competes during the two-day opening round for one of 10 final-round slots based on their two-day accumulated weight. Weights are cleared for the final round, with the winning pro determined by the heaviest two-day total weight from days three and four. The co-angler winner is determined on day three based on the weight of that day’s catch.

Courtesy of FLW Outdoors

Winterizing Checklist 10/5/06

Potable Water System

• Drain water from all freshwater systems lines and pumps.
• Inspect pump impellers fro wear and lightly lubricate with Teflon-based grease
• Inspect hoses for signs of softening, cracking, bulging, leaks or pinholes and replace, if necessary, before filling lines
• Inspect hose clamps and replace is necessary
• Fill all plumbing system lines with nontoxic propylene glycol-based antifreeze
• Before recommissioning your vessel, add water freshener/purifier tabs to freshwater tank to remove residual odors and condition newly added water

Marine Sanitation Systems

• Empty waste holding tank at an approved pumpout facility
• Rinse holding tank thoroughly to remove residual waste
• Pump antifreeze through bowl
• Lubricate gaskets and seacocks
• Check hoses for calcification and signs of wear. Replace damaged hoses if necessary
• Wash out vented loops
• Fill discharge and intake hoses with antifreeze
• Add antifreeze to holding tank to prevent freezing of residual waste

Interior

• Clean and drain bilge completely
• Inspect and lubricate all seacocks
• Clean out refrigerator, ice box, and freezer. Block door open and leave an open box of baking sods inside to absorb odors
• Remove cushions and curtains and store ashore
• Check and clean all storage compartments
• Secure all hatches and ports
• Place an appropriate number of dehumidifying devices or a thermostatically controlled heater in safe areas away from combustible materials
• Check to make sure ventilators are operating properly

19th Blairfoot Bananza Set For This Weekend 10/5/06

Some of the world's top barefoot water ski athletes are expected to compete in the 19th Annual Blairfoot Bananza World Barefoot Water Ski Endurance Championships October 7th and 8th on Lake Silver in Winter Haven, Florida. In past years, the very successful event named in honor of barefoot water skiing ambassador "Banana" George Blair, has attracted competitors from more than 25 states and four countries. Last year, the International Water Ski Federation recognized the Bananza as the official World Endurance and Figure Eight Championship.

Male and female barefooters of all ages and ability will compete for titles in two events. The endurance event will test strength and stamina, as the skier competes against the clock. The figure-eight competition pits two barefooters against each other as they are being pulled at approximately 38 mph behind a single boat going around a figure eight course.

The world championships' title in both endurance and figure-eight will be awarded to the top-three placements in the newly developed overall division, while all other athletes will compete for Blairfoot Bananza age division titles. At the completion of the tournament, the endurance champion and the figure-eight champion in each division will challenge each other for the prestigious title of World Overall Endurance Champion.

Courtesy of USAWaterski.org

U.S. Athlete Friday Remains In Critical Condition 10/5/06

U.S. wakeboard athlete Dallas Friday remains in critical condition in a Singapore hospital after suffering a broken femur during the IWSF Wakeboard World Cup event last Sunday, Oct. 1.

The Singapore Water Ski & Wakeboard Federation issued the following statement on Wednesday, Oct. 4: “Dallas Friday was admitted to the Changi General Hospital on Sunday, Oct. 1, and underwent surgery on Monday morning, Oct. 2, to treat her left thigh bone fracture. According to the hospital, she is currently in the intensive care unit being treated for acute respiratory distress syndrome. Her condition is critical but stable. We are doing our best to ensure that Dallas and her family are being provided all necessary medical care and support. We are also working closely with the hospital, monitoring her progress. Further updates will be provided as and when information becomes available. Ms. Friday's father and brother are currently with her in Singapore. Her father, Mr. Robin Friday, would like to take this opportunity to thank all her fans and well-wishers for their concern.”

USA Water Ski Executive Director Andy Jugan also issued the following statement: “Dallas is truly an amazing young woman, who we all love and respect. She and her family are in the thoughts and prayers of everyone in the USA Water Ski and USA Wakeboard family. We wish her a speedy and full recovery and look forward to her return to competition when she is fully recuperated and ready.”

Friday, 20, is widely considered the best female wakeboard rider in the history of the sport. She has won numerous professional titles and has been featured in national publications and on national television programs.

Courtesy of USAWaterski.org

“Earthrace” Currently in Redondo Beach, CA on World Tour 09/28/06

The 78’ wave piercing trimaran “Earthrace” has made it across the Pacific from New Zealand to California, burning nothing but “biofuel” according to a recent issue of the New York Times. The $2.4 million Kevlar and carbon fiber boat is powered by twin MerCruiser/Cummins QSC-540 diesel engines driving through ZF marine gears. The engines were chosen because of their high horsepower to weight ratio, according to the Earthrace website. MerCruiser/Cummins and ZF donated their equipment for the project.

The boat is designed to “pierce” right through waves rather than riding completely over them. The vessel carries 2500 gallons of biofuel and has a top speed of 45 knots with a light load and is designed to run at 35 knots cruise. The boats is brainchild of Pete Bethune, from New Zealand, who has poured his life’s savings and mortgaged his house to fund his project, according to his website.

Bethune says he has two goals: 1) to beat the speed record for a powerboat in a circumnavigation of 75 days, set in 1998 by a British boat called the Cable & Wireless Adventurer, according to the Times. 2) To promote the concept of using biofuel in engines of all sorts, including marine.

According to Bethune’s website the fuel for the boat can be made with salvaged french fry grease, refined soybean oil, hard fat from animals such as sheep, cattle and hogs – and he said in a TV interview on the website, human fat through liposuction. According to the Times the boat refueled in Hawaii on biodiesel made from “the drippings of cruiser liners’ deep fryers.”

The boat is making a tour of the US and should be visiting a town near you on the coast or Great Lakes in the next 6 to 9 months, so long as the project stays afloat financially.

For more information and to visit a terrific website, www.earthrace.net.

Lessons from the Long Island Collision 09/28/06

Last week a 600’ coal freighter ran down a 92’ sailboat at 4:30 am in clear weather off the north coast of Long Island in Long Island Sound. A woman on the sailboat died of hypothermia and two men on the boat were rescued alive. The sailboat sank.

The USCG inquiry is underway and we do not know what they will find. However, we do know that this is an accident that should not have happened. Obviously, neither vessel was keeping a proper watch. By definition, if it were “proper” a crewperson on both vessels would have seen the collision coming and avoided it.

We do not know what went on in this case, but we DO know that skippers of commercial fishing vessels in Long Island Sound have been known to punch in their way points on a chart plotter, click it into the autopilot, then leave the bridge to do other work. We also know that yacht delivery crews, which are almost always short-handed, do the same thing.

In our view, the problem here is that both commercial vessels and yachts now both have very sophisticated electronics and they are connecting the autopilot to waypoints that they program into the chart plotter. They are also setting “intrusion alarm” rings on their radar units expecting a buzzer to sound if the perimeter is crossed. The devices don’t cause collisions -- but people who turn them on, then don’t keep a proper lookout -- do.

Several years ago a 33’ sailboat in thick fog just two miles of Point Judith at the mouth off Long Island Sound was struck amidships by a fishing trawler with no one on the bridge. The captain of the commercial vessel reportedly said that if had to keep an eye out for all of the #@*%&# yachtsmen he would never get any work done.

Stories that you have heard for years of freighters coming into port with sailboat rigging caught in their bow anchors are true. Yachts have been rundown in the oceans for years.

The lesson is clear: Do not connect your chart plotter to your autopilot. Both are great tools, but don’t be tempted to connect them. And don’t count on your radar to buzz if a boogie comes close. Just keep a proper watch.

Texas Ski Ranch Festival Wrap-Up 09/28/06

The event season at Texas Ski Ranch (TSR) comes to a close each year with the TSR Fall Festival. This year's Fall Festival included wakeboard competitions on both our cable lake and boat lake, the 2nd Annual Texas Pit Bike National, bikini contest, and a regional skateboard tournament. The action was intense, but the atmosphere was laid back as always at Texas Ski Ranch.

On Saturday September 23, after narrowing the competitors in five different divisions, with local favorites Tom Fooshee and Brett Little sitting on top of the leader board for pro cable and wakeskate respectively, we headed to the boat lake for some more incredible riding. On a glass calm lake with a beautiful MasterCraft X2 ready to go, riders in four divisions rode for the better part of five hours, eliminating close to half of the field.

Sunday morning came around way too early for many of our riders that qualified for the finals. On the cable, local favorites Tom Fooshee and Bret Little proved to be too much for the rest of the field as they won the wakeboard and wakeskate divisions. Both were pushed and had to perform flawlessly to win the titles. Josh Rice and Keith Lidberg made things difficult for Tom who hit a switch heelside 900, Pete Rose 5, slim chance, backside hs 7 and more to win the event. Collin Gee, who made two kick flips as well as two varial flips, pushed Bret. In the end, Bret’s mastery of the rails distanced him from the competition. Many wakeboarders dream to ride rails like Bret does on a skate.

The boat finals were the final event of the weekend and lived up to the billing. Tom Fooshee proved to be unbeatable as he walked away with both pro titles, a feat that has never before been accomplished. Tom is following the same path that Keith Lidberg had before him in mastering both the cable and boat venues at TSR. Tom is no stranger to first place finishes on the cable, but as his boat riding becomes more and more consistent, he should become accustomed to the same in boat pulled tournaments. “Tom looked more comfortable than I have ever seen him behind the boat. As he starts converting more of his tricks from the cable, he should be scaring a lot of the nation's top riders. He’s that good,” said tournament organizer Blake Hess.

In the wakeskate division, Brandon Thomas was again in town and looked to improve upon his finish at Cablestock. Texas’ own Jessie Landry, 2006 Cablestock Champion, was not going to just hand the title over to BT, the Toe Jam triple crown winner. While Jessie threw down a run that was very impressive, BT was able to edge out the win with his diversity of wake-to-wake, flip and shuvit tricks.

In the end, the level of riding on the water was much better than 2005 in all of the wakeboard and wakeskate divisions. You can’t ask for more than that. And now we head into the off-season and begin planning for the 2007 events!

Big Dawg Championship Set For Sept. 3-Oct. 1 09/28/06

Following a four-stop qualifying series, the inaugural Ski Nautique Big Dawg Slalom Championship will take place Sept. 30-Oct. 1 at the Isles of Lake Hancock in Winter Garden, Fla. The Ski Nautique Big Dawg Slalom Series, which pitted Men’s 34 mph slalom skiers - age 35 and over - in thrilling head-to-head match ups, consisted of four qualifying stops, each with a $5,000 purse. The championship boasts a $10,000 purse. Preliminary round action begins at 8:30 a.m. on Sept. 30, and the head-to-head finals are slated to begin at 11:30 a.m. on Oct. 1.

The championship will feature a total of 50 competitors. The first half of the remainder of the field comes from the top single scores from the qualifiers, and the second half of the field was determined by the top cumulative scores.

The series was open to skiers age 35 or older who had not placed among the top 10 in a professional tournament in the last three years, or any skier over the age of 50. Each tournament in the series included two rounds of record-capability action, followed by a bracketed 16-skier head-to-head finale. The championship will follow the same format.

The Big Dawg slalom tournaments have become popular among participants over the past two years because the skiers are not fragmented into divisions, and the winners are declared after a thrilling head-to-head format. At the regional and national championships, titles are awarded to the winners in Men 3, Men 4, Men 5 and Masters 55K, the top divisions for 34 mph slalom athletes. At the Big Dawg events, there is only one division, and ultimately, one Big Dawg.

Courtesy of USAWaterski.org

Stren Regular Season Wraps up with Finale in New York 09/28/06

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – The last regular-season event of the 2006 Stren Series began the morning of September 27th as a full field of anglers took off onto Lake Champlain for the fourth and final Northeast Division qualifier of the year.

At stake are the customary spoils of the Stren Series: some $60,000 in cash and prizes for the pro winner and a possible $35,000 for the top co-angler. Mostly, though, anglers are here making last-ditch efforts to try to gain points and earn a berth into the Stren Championship, to be held at Alabama’s Wheeler Lake in early November.

To that end, there’s really no better place to do that than Lake Champlain, which is as prolific a tournament bass fishery as they come. The limits of feisty smallmouths and largemouths will come hot and fast this week, even if it is a little September cool in upstate New York. The competition – as always at Champlain – will be decided by mere ounces.

Another trend to watch out for: Can somebody win this event by catching smallmouth bass exclusively? History says no; good smallies will easily get you through the cut, but the winner always seems to be holding up fat largemouths for Saturday photos. Don’t think that goes unnoticed by the anglers: More than a few pros pointed their boats southward at takeoff Wednesday morning in hopes of capitalizing on the big largemouth bite in the Ticonderoga area, about 60 miles down at the bottom of the lake.

However, it is late September, and the weather could seriously test anyone who decides to take that chance. Connecticut pro Terry Baksay said conditions in practice weren’t exactly friendly for anyone who might want to make the big run on Champlain, which has previously seen tournament days canceled due to wind.

With steady 10 to 20 mph southerly winds kicking up the afternoon for most of the week, it will be interesting to see whether the lure of the Ticonderoga largemouth is enough to overcome the pain of a long run on a ruthless Lake Champlain.

Courtesy of FLW Outdoors

Team West Virginia Takes Lead on Opening Day 09/28/06

MOUNT ARLINGTON, N.J. — New Jersey Bass Federation President Tony Going was on the money when he predicted tough fishing and low weights for the TBF Mid-Atlantic Divisional Championship. Only three limits were weighed at Lake Hopatcong Wednesday, September 27 the first day of the event, and the leader, Eric Stewart of West Virginia, weighed only four bass for a total weight of 9 pounds, 4 ounces.

Stewart, a civil engineer from Anmoore, W. Va., held his cards closely and refused to elaborate on his strategy. He did, however, admit that he only got four bites all day.

Stewart was fishing as a nonboater, but his partner, who didn’t have a strong pattern, agreed to go to Stewart’s fish first. It turned out to be a good move.

Of the 70 anglers representing six state teams, 19 didn’t bring a single fish to the weigh-in stage; 20 only brought one bass to the scales; 14 caught two keepers; nine managed to scratch up three; and five anglers weighed in four bass. Although Hopatcong has a decent population of smallmouth bass, largemouths were the predominant species.

With a total of 44 pounds, 2 ounces, the West Virginia Bass Federation team is nearly 9 pounds ahead of the second-place team from Virginia, which brought 35 pounds, 12 ounces to the scales today. Members of the Delaware Bass Federation are in third with 32 pounds, 12 ounces, followed by the host team from New Jersey. They have a 32-pound, 9-ounce total. Pennsylvania is fifth with 25 pounds, 7 ounces, and The Nation’s Capital Bass Federation is in sixth with 20 pounds, 13 ounces.

Courtesy of FLW Outdoors

“Freeze Coverage Insurance” Takes Care of Boat Engine Winterizing Mistakes 09/28/06

An engine is the single most expensive item aboard a recreational boat and every fall boaters should take steps to protect it from freeze-related damage. Whether you do-it-yourself or pay someone else to do the job, BoatUS Marine Insurance claims files show that engine winterization mistakes can be ruinous and sometimes lead to the complete loss of the engine.

Unfortunately, most boat insurance policies won’t compensate the owner as this kind of damage is considered a maintenance issue. For peace of mind this winter, consider adding “freeze coverage” insurance to your boat’s policy.

Freeze coverage insurance generally covers damage to the engine and a boat’s systems as a result of freezing water. Even a small amount of ice in an engine block can exert tremendous pressure, cracking cylinder walls or other internal engine passageways.

Eight Steps to Avoiding Electrical Problems 09/28/06

Nothing can end a fishing trip or day of family fun on the water faster than electrical problems. Batteries that won’t turn over the motor, marine electronics that work intermittently or dead bait and bilge pumps can be a huge nuisance for boaters. In a worst-case scenario, they can be downright dangerous. The good news is, these types of problems can often be avoided by inspecting and maintaining your boat’s electrical system.

It’s a good idea to give your vessel’s electrical system a prelaunch “tune up.” This will give you a chance to find and fix any small problems before they become large ones. Even during the season, it’s a good idea to give your boat an electrical check up at least once.

Start at the heart.

A boat’s batteries are like the heart of a boat’s electrical system. If they’re weak, poorly maintained or poorly connected, nothing will work right. Start by visually inspecting and testing your boat’s batteries. Check the tops of the batteries and inside the battery boxes for dirt, debris or signs of leaking electrolytes. Clean and dry as needed (remember, battery acid is caustic and the hydrogen gas released by lead acid batteries is explosive. Avoid sparks and flames and skin contact with acid). Check the electrolyte levels and top off using distilled water (not tap water). If the batteries have been sitting discharged for a long time, they may need to be replaced. After bringing the batteries to a full state of charge, wait several hours and check test their voltage. Healthy batteries at rest should read between 12.1 to 12.8 volts. If you have gel cell or AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries, follow the manufacturer’s inspection and maintenance guidelines.

Power right.

Improper battery application and management can lead to battery trouble and shortened battery life. Boats with heavy electrical demands (livewell pumps, fishfinders, radar, washdown pumps, trolling motors, etc.) should be outfitted with a cranking battery for engine starting and one or two deep-cycle “house” batteries for powering onboard equipment.

Deep cycle batteries are designed for repeated charging and discharging, whereas typical automotive cranking batteries will rapidly weaken under this type of use. A quality ignition- protected battery switch lets the boater select which battery or batteries are being used/charged by the engine’s alternator.

Install an onboard battery charger.

Keeping marine batteries at a full state-of-charge at all times improves battery performance and battery life. Because it can be a hassle to drag a battery charger out to the boat and reach down in the bilge to hook everything up, many boaters delay recharging their batteries or let them sit for months between charges. Installing a “smart” onboard battery charger makes keeping your batteries in tip-top shape as easy as plugging in a lamp. These chargers utilize advanced technology to maintain batteries without damaging the cells or “cooking” off electrolytes, so they can be kept on indefinitely.

Avoid “terminal”illness.

Having healthy, fully charged batteries won’t mean a thing if the battery terminals and cables are loose, damaged, or corroded. Remove the terminals and clean them and the battery posts with a wire brush to remove any corrosion. Check the battery cable ends for broken strands and signs of-corrosion – and replace if serious damage or corrosion is noted. Reconnect and tighten securely, then apply a light coat of dielectric grease to prevent further corrosion. Make sure positive battery terminals have an insulating cover to avoid possible shorts from metallic objects.

Beating corrosion to the wire.

Many boat electrical systems are tangled jumble of wires, splices and electrical tape – and this often leads to problems.

Begin by visually inspecting wires. Check for nicks, cuts or signs of chafing on the insulation – these are potential areas where corrosion can attack. Replace damaged wires with quality tinned copper marine wire of the appropriate gauge. Inspect how wires are routed, as sharp bends or abrasion against wood, metal or fiberglass can damage insulation as well as the wire inside. Spliced wires, especially those “protected” with electrical tape, are a common source of problems.

Electrical tape doesn’t hold up well to the pervasive moisture, humidity and extremes of temperature common aboard a boat, allowing corrosion to get a foothold. Secondly, each extra splice or connection in a wire creates added resistance to current flow. Extra wire, often bundled up and tucked out of the way, has the same effect. Minimize unnecessary wire and make sure all connections are secure and sealed with corrosion inhibitor.

Eliminate inline fuses.

Boats often have inline fuses for each electrical accessory. This can make it difficult to find, diagnose and fix problems, especially on the water. The last thing you want to do is spend hours fishing around under the dash or console to find the problem wire or fuse, when you’d rather get back to fishing. You can easily organize and improve your boat’s wiring system by installing a quality marine fuse block. These can use glass fuses or automotive style blade fuses. A fuse block helps minimize connections and organizes the wiring system that delivers power to echosounders, VHF radios, washdown pumps, and other accessories. Having everything organized and clearly labeled makes it easy to check and, if necessary, replace a blown fuse for a specific piece of electronics. Test all lights. Periodically test and visually inspect all the lights on your boat – running lights, anchor light, cockpit courtesy lights, spreader lights, cabin lights, etc. If a light is not operating properly, remove and inspect the bulb, replacing if necessary. Corrosion and poor contact often causes intermittent operation so remove any dirt or corrosion from the bulb socket, coat the base of the bulb lightly with dielectric grease and replace.

Bring spares. No matter how well you check and maintain your boat’s electrical systems, there are bound to be small problems from time to time. Put together a small kit of spare items, and you might just be able to fix a small problem and keep having fun. A selection of glass and/or blade style fuses, bulbs, assorted marine wiring connectors, heat shrink tubing, tie wraps, electrical tape, multimeter, continuity tester and dielectric grease are some of the items that should be included in any boater’s “electrical kit.”

Courtesy of Scuttlebutt.com

Sailboat, Freighter Collide in LI Sound 09/21/06

New Haven, CT-- One person was killed and two others rescued after a sailboat and a freighter collided in Long Island Sound early Wednesday, the Coast Guard said.

The collision occurred about 4:30 a.m. five miles north of Roanoke Point Shoals in Long Island Sound. Roanoke Point Shoals is located north of Riverhead, N.Y., along Long Island's NorthShore.

The collision between the 600-foot freighter and the 92-foot sailboat sank the smaller boat, which was heading to Greenwich, according to the Coast Guard.

A Coast Guard rescue boat recovered two members of the three-person sailboat crew and transferred them to local emergency medical crews. One, a woman, was pronounced dead at Yale-New Haven Hospital, while the other, a man, was treated for mild hypothermia.

The third crew member, the sailboat captain, was rescued by the freighter's small boat and taken to shore by the Coast Guard rescue boat. He was reported in good condition.

The freighter, the coal carrier Barkald, was heading to Halifax, Nova Scotia, from Bridgeport.

The Coast Guard ordered the freighter anchored in New Haven pending the start of an investigation. The Coast Guard also ordered drug and alcohol screening of the Barkald's crew, which is standard practice.

The Coast Guard has not released the names of those who were aboard the sailboat.

Five U.S. Water Ski Teams Competing At Pan American Water Ski Championships 09/20/06

Five U.S. Water Ski Teams - junior, 17 to 20, elite, veteran 1 and veteran 2 - are competing in the 2006 Pan American Water Ski Championships, Tuesday September 19 through Sunday September 24, in Acuaski Morelos, Mexico. The biennial event features athletes and teams from North, Central and South America. Individual medals in slalom, tricks, jumping and overall are at stake in addition to team medals. Results will be posted as soon as they become available.

The U.S. Junior Water Ski Team is comprised of Caroline Hensley of Chattanooga, Tenn., Taylor Pavur of Santa Fe, Texas, Storm Selsor of Fremont, Calif., and Zack Worden of Deltona, Fla.

Members of the U.S. 17 to 20 Water Ski Team are Danyelle Bennett of Zachary, La., Cale Burdick of Danville, Ind., Alex Lauretano of Morris, Conn., and Joy Todd of Pierson, Fla.

Bennett also is competing as a member of the U.S. Elite Water Ski Team along with Brandi Hunt of Clermont, Fla., Freddy Krueger of Winter Garden, Fla., Mandy Nightingale of Sapulpa, Okla., Karen Truelove of Winter Garden, Fla., and Jimmy Siemers of Round Rock, Texas.

Courtesy of USAwaterski.org

U.S. Athletes, Teams Collect Medals at Barefoot Worlds 09/20/06

The U.S. Elite Barefoot Water Ski Team and the U.S. Senior Barefoot Water Ski Team each won overall team gold medals, the U.S. Junior Barefoot Water Ski Team earned the overall silver medal, and 17 U.S. athletes earned individual medals in respective events as the 2006 Barefoot Water Ski World Championships concluded Sunday September 17, at Lake Silverado in Adna, Wash.

For the first time, the biennial Elite (Open) Barefoot Water Ski World Championships was held simultaneously with the biennial Junior and Senior Barefoot Water Ski World Championships. The nine-day event featured more than 130 athletes from 13 countries. The Elite Barefoot Worlds took place for the 15th time, while the Junior Barefoot Worlds was held for the seventh time and the Senior Barefoot Worlds commenced for the fifth time.

Athletes participating as members of the U.S. Elite Barefoot Water Ski Team were: Lane Bowers of Winter Haven, Fla., Billy Brzoza of Coventry, R.I., Rachel George-Normand of Winter Haven, Fla., Keith St. Onge of Winter Haven, Fla., Niki Soubliere-Munroe of Lakeland, Fla., and Laura Szwed of White Lake, Mich. Ryan Boyd of Orlando, Fla., was the alternate. The team tallied 8,514.15 points as the United States won its 11th consecutive world team title. Australia scored 7,496.65 points to earn the silver medal and Great Britain finished with 6,931.94 points in clinching the bronze medal in the 13-team field.

The U.S. Elite Team was led by St. Onge, who won gold medals in Men’s slalom, tricks and overall, and set pending world tricks records in all three rounds. George won the gold medal in Women’s jumping and overall, and earned silver medals in slalom and tricks; Brzoza earned the bronze medal in Men’s slalom; Bowers earned the silver medal in Men’s slalom and the bronze medal in jumping; and Szwed earned the bronze medal in Women’s tricks.

Athletes competing as members of the U.S. Senior Barefoot Water Ski Team were: Andrea Eggert of Mequon, Wis., Brian Heeney of Helena, Mont., Mike Salber of Winter Garden, Fla., and Jody Sherwood of Maple Lake, Minn. Betsy Colmant of Cumming, Ga., was the alternate.

The U.S. Senior Team scored 5,839.12 points in earning the victory in the seven-team field. Defending champion Australia earned the silver medal with 5,469.35 points and Canada clinched the bronze medal with 4,282.35 points.

The U.S. Senior Team was led by Sherwood, who swept the gold medals in Women’s slalom, tricks, jumping and overall. Sherwood also earned the gold medal in Open Women’s tricks, competing as a U.S. independent. Salber earned silver medals in Men’s jumping and overall; Eggert earned silver medals in Women’s tricks, jumping and overall; and Heeney earned the silver medal in Men’s tricks.

A handful of U.S. independent competitors also earned medals in the Senior Worlds. Sherri Morse of Redmond, Wash., earned the silver medal in Women's slalom and bronze medals in jumping and overall; Brad Pegg of Belle Plaine, Kan., earned the silver medal in Men’s slalom; Dawn Farrell of West Sacramento, Calif., earned the bronze medal in Women’s slalom; and Theresa Hoffmann of Loveland, Colo., earned the bronze medal in Women’s tricks.

Courtesy of USAwaterski.org

Siemers, Barton-Bischoff Win Overall Titles At U.S. Open 09/20/06

U.S. athletes Jimmy Siemers of Round Rock, Texas, and Rhoni Barton-Bischoff of Orlando, Fla., won overall titles Saturday September 16 at the 2006 U.S. Open Water Ski Championships, presented by the MasterCraft Boat Company. The finals were held under the lights of Village Lake at Downtown Disney, the Walt Disney World Resort’s famed retail, shopping, dining and entertainment district in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. More than $100,000 in cash prizes were at stake at the 19th annual event. Preliminary rounds were held Sept. 13-15 on Lake Grew in Polk City, Fla., while the seeding and final rounds were held in the evenings Sept. 15-16 at Village Lake in Downtown Disney.

Siemers tallied 2,912.9 points to win his second career U.S. Open Men’s overall title.

Barton-Bischoff scored 2,927.7 points to earn her fifth career U.S. Open Women’s overall title, her first major victory since undergoing reconstructive knee surgery in 2005. She also finished third in Women’s slalom after scoring 1 buoy at 38 feet off.

In its 19th year, the U.S. Open was a world-record capability tournament that attracted more than 75 of the world’s top water ski athletes from more than a dozen countries. It has long been considered the most prestigious tournament in three-event water skiing. Male and female athletes competed for titles in slalom, tricks and jumping. Athletes competing in all three events were eligible for the coveted U.S. Open overall title.

Courtesy of USAwaterski.org

Team East Coast Sports Wins Wal-Mart FLW Kingfish Series 09/20/06

ATLANTIC BEACH, N.C. — Team East Coast Sports, headed by Captain Randall Edens of Hampstead, N.C., caught a kingfish weighing 42 pounds, 10 ounces Saturday September 16, to win the Wal-Mart FLW Kingfish Series North Carolina Division event in Atlantic Beach. The top prize of $30,000 included a $9,000 Wellcraft bonus and a $9,000 Yamaha bonus.

Teaming with his father, George Edens of Surf City, N.C., the top captain fished off Cape Lookout and targeted ledges in 80 feet of water. “It’s an area that’s known for producing good fish, and we finished seventh in another tournament at the same spot last week,” Randall Edens said. “The water clarity was good. There was a decent amount of bait, but when we found the bait, we found the fish.”

The father-son duo struck early with a double header. A 22-pounder ate a live pogy on the shotgun line, and the winning fish followed by grabbing a double pogy rig on the medium flat line.

“The smaller fish hit, and when I pulled that rod out of the holder, the big fish hit,” Randall Edens said. “I had two rods in my hands, and my dad was cranking up the downriggers. I was telling him to hurry because I was losing line quick.”

The younger Edens fought the big fish to the boat, and his dad gaffed it around 9:30 a.m. “We felt like we had a good chance (at winning), but you never know. There are a lot of good people out there fishing.”

The captain said that competing as a two-man team is a doable challenge that requires time management. “You have to be prepared. You can’t be doing things on the water that you should do on the dock. You have to have all your tackle made and your gear in tip-top shape. It gets a little hectic now and then, but we’ve been fishing together nine years, so we make do.”

Courtesy of FLW Outdoors

Destination Dubai: Sabre Yachts Makes Delivery Half Way Around the World 09/20/06

SOUTH CASCO, ME (September 14, 2006) – Sabre Yachts is celebrating the delivery of hull #50 of the popular Sabre 42 Hard Top Express. The boat is going to a yachting couple in Dubai. Dubai is a thriving port side city on the southern coast of the Arabian Gulf with a growing boating community, and is one of the seven territories that make up the Federation of the United Arab Emirates.

Having an affinity for ‘Downeast style’ motor yachts, the yachting couple first came across the Sabre 42’s elegant design at the 2006 London Boat Show. They were immediately attracted to her classic exterior and crafted, spacious interior.

“This is a significant delivery for the Sabre Team, “ said Bentley Collins, Vice President of Marketing and Sales. “Dubai is a cosmopolitan city with an expanding marine industry. The Sabre 42 will certainly stand out among the other boats on the water…”

Formula's Unlimited Hydroplanes-Moving Toward the Winner's Circle 09/20/06

Team Formulaboats.com, the U-5 and U-7 Unlimited Hydroplanes sponsored by Formula, has had an extremely exciting 2006 season, earning several top positions in qualifying heats as well as in the finals. With these consistently successful runs, Formulaboats.com is holding solid positions in the national high points for ABRA. The U-7 hull, driven by Mike Allen, holds second place in points in the series at press time. With only 278 points separating him from first, the final race in San Diego, California, on September 15-17 is sure to produce an "unlimited" amount of excitement!

Highlights for the U-5 and U-7 Formulaboats.com unlimited hydroplane season include fastest qualifier in the Les Regates de Valleyfield event in Quebec; heat victories in Madison, Detroit and Tri-Cities, Washington; and several event podium finishes, including a first place for the Valleyfield race.

Trombly’s Time to Shine 09/14/06

TRENTON, Mich. – If an angler wants to win a tournament on Lake Erie, he had better be prepared to work for it. And if Lake Erie isn’t in a difficult mood, you can bet the Detroit River is. Such was the scene for this week’s Stren Series Midwest Division season closer, and true to form, the river and the lake richly rewarded those who persevered with a steady stream of monstrous limits.

Pro Mike Trombly of Perrysburg, Ohio, spent many a long hour practicing for this tournament, and it paid off well the first three days, when he brought in a succession of limits in excess of 20 pounds. In fact, Trombly was the only pro to break that 20-pound barrier yesterday. Saturday, September 9 though, was his toughest day yet, and he stood in the weigh-in line with his day-four catch of 17 pounds, 1 ounce and watched his fellow finalists bring in sacks totaling 19 and 20 pounds.

If Trombly was nervous, he didn’t show it. The final angler to weigh in by virtue of his day-three No. 1 status, Trombly approached the stage to face the one angler who had hit 20 pounds today – Bryan Coates. In the end, it was Trombly by a hair – 5 ounces, to be exact – and despite a tough day on the water, sweet victory was finally his with a two-day total of 38 pounds, 8 ounces.

--Courtesy of FLW Outdoors

Lafitte Redfish Series Win with Shallow Bite 09/14/06

LAFITTE, La. – After several weeks of prevalent deep-water patterns capturing the lead in redfish tournaments in southern Louisiana, the extreme shallow bite prevailed Saturday in the Wal-Mart FLW Redfish Series Western event out of Lafitte.

Edward Adams and Ray Chagnard, both of Metairie, La., took home the winners’ trophies and $50,000 in cash by squeaking around in ultrashallow water and catching upper-slot reds from water that was barely a foot deep.

Going into the finals on Adams and Chagnard were in second, trailing the leaders Blair Wiggins and Tadd Vandemark, who were targeting deep-water reds, by 13 ounces.

But things changed drastically Saturday, September 9, when a wicked line of thundershowers moved over southern Louisiana, drenching the top five teams of finalists shortly after takeoff.

The weather put the quietus on Wiggins and Vandemark’s school of big reds and made sight-fishing conditions difficult for other top-five teams that had been spotting reds in 2 to 4 feet of water.

The team scored two big reds early for 15 pounds, 7 ounces. But even then, they felt like their chances of taking the win were thin.

When Wiggins and Vandemark took the stage, however, their two reds topped the scales at 13 pounds, 10 ounces, and Adams and Chagnard took the lead with a three-day total of 46 pounds, 14 ounces.

--Courtesy of FLW Outdoors

CITGO Bassmaster Angler of the Year 09/14/06

While several qualifying spots and contingency awards are on the line at this week’s The Rock presented by TheraSeed at Table Rock Lake in Kimberling City, Mo., nothing can top the prestige and importance of the CITGO Bassmaster Angler of the Year race.

With 10 CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series events already over, New Jersey’s Mike Iaconelli and Alabama’s Steve Kennedy have distanced themselves from the others in the 102-angler field. Approaching the final tournament, Iaconelli holds a steady yet approachable 45-point lead over Kennedy, a freshman who’s leading the Toyota Rookie of the Year race.

With a third-place showing in the 2004 Angler of the Year standings and an eighth-place finish last year, Iaconelli has put together solid seasons. But the 34-year-old BASS millionaire has yet to win the prestigious award.

"This is the one that’s missing," said Iaconelli. "I want to win this one really bad and I am in a good position to do so."

Much like 2005, when Alabama’s Aaron Martens scored a second-place finish in the final event of the season to beat out Marty Stone for the title, both Iaconelli and Kennedy are searching for solid finishes to secure the Angler of the Year award.

Meanwhile, Kennedy has strung together an ultra-impressive rookie season. Even without a win, he has amassed more than $150,000 in earnings.

Although it’s considered a long shot, if Iaconelli and Kennedy both falter at the deep, clear Missouri fishery, another accomplished angler could take home the crown.

The Bassmaster Angler of the Year will be awarded following the conclusion of The Rock on Sunday, Sept. 17.

Anglers consider the annual award the truest measure of season-long performance. With an expanded, 11-event season, an angler must fish consistently on a number of different fisheries at different times of the year to finish high in the standings.

--Courtesy of Fishingworld.com

2006 U.S. Open Under Way At Lake Grew 09/14/06

The 2006 U.S. Open Water Ski Championships, presented by MasterCraft, is under way in central Florida. Preliminary-round action began Wednesday September 13 and runs through Friday, September 15 at Lake Grew in Polk City, while a special seeding round and the finals will be held Friday evening, September 15th and Saturday evening the 16th, respectively, at Downtown Disney's Village Lake in Lake Buena Vista. More than $100,000 in cash prizes will be at stake.

--Courtesy of USAwaterski.org

Barefoot World Championships Continue 09/14/06

The 2006 Barefoot Water Ski World Championships continued Wednesday Sept. 13 at Lake Silverado in Adna, Wash., with semifinals in Open Women, Junior Boys' and Junior Girls' slalom; Senior Men's jumping; and Senior Women's tricks. Preliminary-round action also took place in Open Men's tricks and Open Women's jumping. For the first time, the biennial Open world championships is being held simultaneously with the biennial Junior and Senior Barefoot Water Ski World Championships. The Open Barefoot Worlds is taking place for the 15th time, while the Junior Barefoot Worlds is taking place for the seventh time, and the Senior Barefoot Worlds is commencing for the fifth time. The tournament, which began on Saturday, Sept. 9, concludes on Sunday, Sept. 17.

--Courtesy of USAwaterski.org

Sea Ray Launches 310 Sundancer for 2007 09/14/06

The all-new 310 Sundancer’s graceful design make it this year’s most talked about boat on the water. The Sea Ray 310 Sundancer offers a range of features, options and extras to make every outing a luxurious experience on the water.

“The 310 Sundancer's sleek, new styling, wise use of space, and exceptional features will prove to be extraordinary and will exceed customers' expectations in this product class,” said Mark Taiclet, program director for Sport Cruisers at Sea Ray’s Product Development and Engineering.

“One of the many exciting differences between our current 300 model and the new 310 is that the side walkways have been replaced with a really convenient windshield walk-through with railing and cabin door with molded steps,” added Taiclet. “This allows easy access to the bow and adds almost a foot in width to the helm and cockpit areas. The helm is so wide, people can’t believe it’s a 31-foot boat!” Another styling design unique to the 310 Sundancer is the standard fiberglass spoiler with integrated arch-top and fixed aft canvas sunshade.

There is plenty of room to easily prepare your favorite meal in the spacious, fully-equipped galley with stainless-steel sink, large, under-counter refrigerator, and a separate refrigerated crisper drawer, microwave/coffeemaker combo, two-burner stove, massive counter space, and plenty of storage. In addition, the mid-stateroom offers a stylish conversation area that easily converts to a double berth when it's time to settle in for a good night's sleep.

Entertaining on deck is effortless with a party-ready, wet bar which can accommodate an optional refrigerator and large, above counter 110 volt built-in grill. Plenty of cockpit seating is available for the whole crew to enjoy the tunes doled out by the six-speaker Clarion® stereo system with a complimentary 6-month subscription to Sirius® Satellite Radio. And, access to the engine room is made easy via an enormous electrically actuated hatch.

For more information visit www.searay.com

Court Ruling Makes Boating Illegal in Much of U.S. 09/14/06

The Marine Retailers Association of America is alerting its dealer members to a court ruling that some say could have serious consequences for boating.

Judge Robert G. James of the U.S. District Court, Western Division of Louisiana, has declared it is a criminal trespass for the public to boat, fish or hunt on the Mississippi River and other navigable waters of the country.

"Even though this action seems like a horrible pre-April Fools’ joke, it is very serious," said MRAA president Phil Keeter, in a statement. "Because essentially all the waters and waterways of our country are considered navigable in the U.S. law, this ruling declares recreational boating, water skiing, fishing, waterfowl hunting and fishing tournaments – except if conducted in a navigable shipping channel — to be illegal and the public subject to jail sentences for recreating with their families."

In addition, the judge held that federal law grants exclusive and private control over the waters of the river, outside the main shipping channel, to riparian landowners. The shallows of the navigable waters are no longer open to the public, the MRAA reports, adding, “Boating has now become illegal in most of our country.”

In the Aug. 29 decision, Judge James rejected the findings of the magistrate judge who found earlier that the public had the right under federal law and Louisiana law to navigate, boat, fish and hunt on the waters of the Mississippi River up the normal high-water line of the river.

In that ruling, MRAA says Magistrate Judge James Kirk relied on long-established federal principles of navigation entitling "the public to the reasonable use of navigable waters for all legitimate purposes of travel or transportation, for boating, sailing for pleasure, as well as for carrying persons or property for hire, and in any kind of watercraft, the use of which is consistent with others also enjoying the right possessed in common."

"MRAA is working with the Coast Guard, state boating law administrators, and NMMA ... to fight this onerous ruling," said MRAA chairman Glenn Mazzella, in a statement.

Courtesy of Trade Only

Women and the Pro Fishing Tour 09/14/06

Big money bass tournaments seem to always focus on the guys, but that is changing fast. Women now have a tournament of their own under the auspices of BASS. Mercury Marine Women’s Bassmaster Tour. Five sites are on the 2006 schedule and over 100 women are in the pro category. Ages ranged from 20 to 80! In fact, the oldest active BASS tournament competitor is Violette Sesco of Citrus Springs, FL. Claiming fishing keeps her fit, she plans to keep on as long as she can get into and out of a boat.

Inflatable Jacket Canisters May be Allowed on Planes 09/14/06

In a move we are personally am glad to see, new Transportation Security Agency rules carry an exception “for both carry-on and checked baggage that allows two compressed gas cylinders fitted into a self-inflating life-jacket and two spare cartridges with the approval of the aircraft operator.” Don’t expect the carriers to do handstands and greet you with open arms. Their fear is that they can’t tell what is in those sealed containers. I understand, but I do like my inflatable when I am testing boats! Call first or possibly suffer the loss of your canisters.

Regal Marine Founder Paul Kuck Succumbs at 76 09/07/06

September 7, 2006, Orlando, FL – Paul M. Kuck, affectionately known as “PK”, founder and chairman of Regal Marine Industries, Inc., moved to his heavenly home on Tuesday, September 5, at the age of 76. After 83 days in the hospital his fight for life on earth peacefully ended while in the presence of his three children and their spouses.

Known throughout the marine industry and beyond for his deep abiding faith in Jesus Christ, Kuck’s commitment to serving God was clearly demonstrated by his passionate leadership in his home, business and community.

Born in the farming community of New Knoxville, OH, Kuck’s career encompassed a stint in the U.S. Army, followed by 12 years in sales, merchandising and marketing. In 1969, he and his wife Carol moved their young family to Orlando, FL where the twosome invested their life savings of $60,000 with an additional $40,000 from former colleagues to launch a new boat building venture which Kuck named Regal Marine Industries, Inc.

Since its founding 37 years ago, Kuck (pronounced: cook) had been actively involved in the ongoing growth and development of Regal, now one of the world’s largest privately-owned boat manufacturers with $160 million in annual sales, dealers and distributors in 40 countries, and two manufacturing plants including the Orlando, FL world headquarters and Valdosta, GA plant, employing 850 team members. Regal has manufactured and sold more than 50,000 boats including today’s product line ranging from 19’ – 44’ including luxury sport boats, sport cruisers and yachts.

Kuck had an international outlook and was one of the first American sport boat builders to introduce Euro-styling.

Besides Regal, Kuck was highly committed to the marine industry, having served as chairman of the National Marine Manufacturers Association from 1988 – 1990, as well as serving as treasurer and on the board of directors. He was also passionately involved in numerous Christian ministries including Prison Fellowship International, Bill Glass Prison Outreach, the Orange County Jail Ministry, Frontline Outreach and CareNet. Perhaps the ministry nearest his heart, however, was Nathaniel’s Hope, an organization dedicated to helping special needs children and their families, founded by Kuck’s son Tim and wife Marie in honor of their son Nathaniel.

Kuck received numerous accolades and recognitions throughout his illustrious career including the President’s E Award for export excellence, the Orlando Small Business Person of the Year, International Business Person of the Year, and the Junior Achievement Hall of Fame Laureate, among many others. However, those who knew Kuck would unanimously agree that his greatest reward was his family.

“Dad earned many awards in his 76 years, but it was his love for our mom Carol and his family that meant the most to him,” said Duane Kuck, eldest son and Regal CEO since 1994. “We were fortunate to work with our dad and to be mentored by him throughout our lives. He invested in all of us, as well as in his friends and colleagues, and many of us are reaping great returns on his investment. Today, he would want us to carry on the tradition of what he started by continually giving to family, community and those in need around the world.”

Kuck is survived by sons Duane Kuck, Regal CEO; Tim Kuck, Regal COO; and daughter Pam Kuck Biddle and their respective spouses Cindy, Marie and Bart, along with 10 grandchildren. Kuck’s wife Carol of 54 years died in July, 2005, while grandson Nathaniel preceded him in death in 2001. Kuck’s living siblings include a sister Marian, brother Vernon and sister-in-law, Ruth.

Visitation with the family is scheduled for Sunday, September 10 from 5 - 7 pm while the memorial service will be held Monday, September 11 at 5 pm. Both events will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Orlando, Kuck’s home church of more than 35 years where he served as an elder.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in memory of Paul Kuck to Nathaniel’s Hope, c/o 2300 Jetport Drive, Orlando, FL 32809. The memorial website may be visited at www.paul-kuck.memory-of.com

West Marine Launches Online Promotion 09/07/06

West Marine is launching a nationawide online, promotion offering a $2,500 shopping spree.

Contestants can enter online at www.westmarine.com/sweepstakes. Five first-place winners will receive a Garmin Street Pilot C330, which retails for $499. The grand prize winner will receive a $2,500 gift card.

BoatU.S. Says Summer Boating Season Was Better Than Expected 09/07/06

With Labor Day marking the end of the summer recreational boating season for many Americans, BoatU.S. reports that some good weather, some great fishing and a less-than-anticipated impact of fuel prices have kept boaters boating and it's on-the-water towboats busy this year helping disabled vessels, providing fuel drop-offs and tows back to port.

BoatU.S. on-the-water towing companies, —TowBoatU.S. and Vessel Assist — report the following general observations on recreational boating activity:

Northeast/ Mid- Atlantic: Continued good weather has meant more boats on the water and an increase in requests for on-the-water assistance over last year. However, in the north boating activity is expected to wind down shortly after the Labor Day holiday. If hurricane activity stays low and if fuel prices continue to soften, the fall boating season could remain strong in Mid-Atlantic states , including more snow bird boaters heading south through the ICW .

Florida: Boating is booming as hurricanes have stayed away — so far — and some boaters, having lost vessels in recent back-to-back years of storm activity, are returning to the water in new boats.

Gulf: Still greatly affected by the 2005 hurricane season, recreational boating in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama has dramatically decreased. Much needed boating-related infrastructure, such as boat clubs, marinas and service yards continue to struggle to rebuild.

California : “The season is not over and we plan to go full speed well into October with phenomenal fishing,” reports Vessel Assist San Diego owner, Capt. Robert Butler. “The difference between this year and last year is ‘buddy boating,' or the practice of fishermen sharing trips to the fishing grounds,” he adds. Unusually warm water and less red tide throughout the Southern California coast is helping the trend. “We see no end sight with the current weather pattern,” says Butler, who says he'll be delaying the seasonal lay up of part of his fleet to meet continued demand.

Pacific Northwest : With less than a quarter inch of rain since early July, waterway traffic has been generally above average — especially on Seattle's Lake Washington . Fuel prices spiked in 2005 but since then have remained stable or slightly decreased, allowing many power boaters to return to their old summer cruising patterns in the San Juan Islands and beyond.

Great Lakes : With “The best walleye fishing in 10 years” reported by Capt. Vern Mienke of Lake Erie 's TowBoatU.S. South Shore, recreational boating traffic has been up. With a short season, Great Lakes boaters have enthusiastically responded to good summer weather patterns.

Midwest/Inland: Capt. Charles Meyer of TowBoatU.S. Lake of the Ozarks says that volume has been up, especially weekday boating activity. “It's not as concentrated on the weekends anymore, and boaters are still spending more time in raft ups rather than burning fuel.”

Winterizing Your Boat 09/07/06

Storage Ashore

In some parts of the country, where winter means several months of bitterly cold weather, storing boats ashore is the norm. In warmer climates, however, ice and snow may occur infrequently, and the choice between storage ashore and storage in the water is open to discussion.

Storage in the water means you might get a jump on the boating season next spring. On the other hand, boats stored ashot (on high ground) won't sink. If you have a choice, storage ashore is generally a safer bet.

One note of caution: The vast majority of the claims in temperate states involved boats that were being stored ashore. Since water retains heat longer than air, boats surrounded by air are more vulnerable to a sudden freeze than boats surrounded by water. Even a brief cold spell that lasts only a night or two can do considerable damage. In temperate states, boat owners must winterize engines and freshwater systems, especially when boats are stored ashore. In deep freeze states, boats stored ashore must be winterized earlier than boats stored in the water.

Storage in the Water

If the boat must be left in the water, the thru-hulls have to be protected by closing all seacocks and gate valves. Leaving thru-hulls unprotected over the winter is like going on an extended vacation and leaving your home’s front door open. Failure to close thru-hulls is a major cause of loss in the BoatUS insurance program. In a recent study of 40 winter-related claims, seacocks or gate valves left open caused or contributed to the sinking of seven of the boats in the sample group. It should be noted that raising and refurbishing a boat that sinks, even at a dock, is a daunting job that can keep the boat in the repair yard for many weeks over the spring and summer. Whenever a boat is stored in the water over the winter, all thru-hulls, with the exception of the ones for cockpit drains, must be closed or it could be on the bottom next spring. And all thru-hulls, especially the ones for the cockpit drains, must be double-clamped with stainless steel hose clamps at each end. This is critical. Wen water freezes it expands and will lift a poorly secured hose off of a fitting. The hose itself is also important. Lightweight hose and PVC tubing can rupture or crack. Use only a heavily reinforced hose, especially at cockpit drains.

If your boat has thru-hulls below the waterline that can’t be closed, either because they are mechanically frozen open or have broken (typical with gate valves, which is why they are not recommended), it should be stored ashore for the winter.

Seacocks are closed by moving the handle down so that the handle is parallel to the hull. Gate valves are closed by turning the wheel clockwise. After the seacock or gate valve has been closed, remove the hose so that it drains and then use an absorbent cloth or turkey baster to eliminate any residual water, which can freeze and crack the nipple. (Taking off the hose also assures you that the valve has closed properly.) Reinstall the hose immediately and secure the two clamps.

It should be noted that thru-hulls above the waterline are not required to have seacocks and most don’t. That doesn’t mean that these thru-hulls aren’t vulnerable. Ordinary plastic thru-hulls deteriorate in sunlight and have been broken when they were shoved underwater by the weight of snow and ice in the cockpit, which then sinks the boat. Plastic thru-hulls near the waterline are especially vulnerable and should be replaced with bronze or Marelon (the latter is the only type of plastic approved for marine use by U.L.).

Winterizing Contracts

“I Thought the Yard Would Take Care of That!”

A casual agreement to take care of the boat, or worse, an assumption that a marina or boatyard automatically protects boats from an unexpected freeze can have chilling results:

In one claim, the skipper was seriously ill, so he called the boatyard and casually asked if they could winterize his houseboat. No problem! The boat was hauled and blocked. The engine’s cooling system was drained and non-toxic anti-freeze flushed throughout the freshwater system. Unfortunately, an expensive winter cover that had been stored below was left untouched in a locker and the boat was left to endure the harsh Minnesota winter au natural.

Winterizing Engines

Engines don’t like to be idle, even for three or four months over the winter. BoatUS Marine Insurance claim files contain many stories of engines that froze and failed after skippers failed to winterize their engine properly. Generally, engine blocks that freeze and crack are not covered by a boat’s insurance policy.

But even if the engine makes it through the winter, a half-hearted winterizing effort will come back to haunt you as the engine gets older and wears out prematurely. Unless it is winterized properly, moisture, acids and corrosion will continue unabated. Winterizing the engine is one job that is truly critical; follow the steps below and consult your manual for specifics.

Down Below

Most marinas are like floating ghost towns over the winter, with little to deter prowlers. Electronics and other valuables that can be dismounted should be taken home for safekeeping. If you have an EPIRB, make sure it won’t be activated accidentally.

Besides electronics, all flammables--spare cooking fuels, charcoal, paints, thinners, and varnish--should be stored ashore, preferably in a tool shed away from the house. All are fire hazards. Portable propane canisters should never be stored below on a boat, even during the season, as the canisters can rust and leak. Leave at least one fully charged fire extinguisher in clear sight.

Take home all food stuffs, including canned and bottled goods. Bunk cushions should be propped up, or better yet, taken home. Open various locker doors, hatches, ice box lids, etc., to circulate air and inhibit mildew. Metal zippers on cushions will benefit from a few squirts of a light lubricating oil.

On Deck

If your boat could talk, it would ask--perhaps plead--for a winter storage cover. Winter covers, typically canvas or synthetic, are a terrific benefit to your boat’s gelcoat and general well-being. Canvas covers tend to last longer but are also more expensive than their synthetic counterparts.

With any cover, a frame, either wood or aluminum, should be used to circulate air and prevent pooling on the cover. Merely draping an old tarp over a cabin may do more harm than good.

Shrink wrapping, a technique borrowed from grocery and department store packagers, is being used by some boatyards to keep boats dry over the winter. With shrink wrapping, heat is applied to a thin plastic so fits snugly over a plastic frame. At the end of the season the entire cover, including the frame, is disposed of. While shrink wrapping is very effective at keeping moisture out, it will also trap moisture inside and create horrendous mildew problems if vents aren’t used along the entire length of the cover. Another problem: Cabins and decks painted with two-part polyurethane paints may peel or bubble. Vents should be used along the entire length of the cover. Inserting a series of foam pads between the hull and cover also allows condensation to escape.

Finally, some skippers mistakenly believe that biminis, which shield the crew from glaring sun will also protect the boat from freezing rain and snow. Quite the contrary; expensive biminis tend to get ripped apart or aged prematurely while doing absolutely nothing to protect the boat. Biminis should be stowed below, or better yet, taken home and cleaned over the winter.

Courtesy of BoatU.S.

Yamaha-Powered Teams Sweep New Orleans’ Red Cup Event, Victory with One One-Hundredth of a Point 09/07/06

Sep. 05, 2006 - New Orleans, LA... Over the long Labor Day Weekend (September 2-5), Yamaha-powered anglers in the Oh Boy! Oberto Redfish Cup New Orleans Redfish Tournament battled out a 1-2-3 finish. It looked like it was going to be a tie at 16.43 pounds, but Anthony Randazzo and Billy Wallbaum, of Louisiana, decided to gamble and hit a $40,000 jackpot.

Mike Tindal, of Alabama, and Artie Price Jr., of Florida, set the bar high, weighing first with a two-fish weight of 16.43 pounds. After Scott Ritter and Robert Abruscato, both of Alabama, fell short with 15.79 pounds, Randazzo and Wallbaum took the stage.

They put their fish on the scale and waited. They watched as the scale bounced back and forth between 16.43 and 16.44, and just as the scale dropped again to 16.43 pounds, tournament director Bob Sealy locked in the weight. Randazzo and Wallbaum immediately called for a re-weigh, taking the chance that the weight could be lower than 16.43 and knock them out of a tie for the lead.

“We never though about not re-weighing,” Randazzo said. “It sat on 16.44 for a long time, and he just happened to hit it when it dropped down.”

The re-weigh brought them up one, one-hundredth of a point and sent their arms into the air in celebration. Tindal and Price dropped their heads and walked of the stage, shocked at what had just happened.

Neither of the final two teams to weigh-in were able to break the 16 pound barrier, and Randazzo and Wallbaum walked away with the championship.

Courtesy of FishingWorld.com

Tenth Annual IGFA Dania Beach Junior Angler Tournament Scheduled in Sept. 09/07/06

Hundreds of youngsters are expected to compete in one of the most popular South Florida fishing competitions, the 10th annual IGFA Dania Beach Junior Angler Tournament on September 15 -16, 2006.

The tournament is for children 16 and under beginning with a 6 p.m. rules meeting and kick-off party on Friday, September 15, 2006 at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum and concluding there on Saturday with a silent auction, raffle and award ceremony starting at 2 p.m. All anglers must be present at the rules meeting to pick up the official score sheets.

This tournament is a qualifying event for the 2007 Mercury/IGFA Junior Angler World Championship next summer, and this year both the highest scoring freshwater and saltwater anglers will qualify. The tournament has been modified to be all catch-and-release, but the rules remain simple: lines in the water at 7 a.m. and lines out at 1 p.m. There is no Bimini start, anglers can fish anywhere they like and catches do not have to be radioed in. Score sheets must be turned in by 2 p.m. at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum.

Junior anglers may choose to fish in one of the following four divisions; freshwater, saltwater shore, saltwater boat or saltwater drift boat. They’ll be awarded points depending on species and degree of difficulty for a variety of eligible five to 20 point fresh and saltwater species.

Stren Midwest Season Closer Kicks Off in Detroit 09/07/06

Trenton, MI – The fourth and final Stren Series Midwest Division tournament kicked off on September 6th in the Detroit suburbs with a lot of boats pointed toward Lake Erie. Though the Detroit River is the official tournament site, competitors have an enormous amount of fishable water to choose from, including the river itself, Erie and Lake St. Clair. But judging from the trajectory of most competitors this morning, the bag-busting smallies are going to come out of Erie.

The Detroit River is an annual Stren Series destination, and the results rarely disappoint, as 20-pound stringers are not uncommon here. In fact, pro Terry Baksay of Easton, CT., says a limit as heavy as 26 pounds is not out of the question at weigh-in.

“There’s going to be some really, really big fish weighed in,” Baksay said. “There are big fish in Erie and in St. Clair.”

Helping the bite, he says, is the light wind, which is forecasted for the tournament days. Troubling anglers, though, is the transition mode the fish are currently in, which can make finding them awfully tricky.

“The fish are not where they should be; they’re moving,” Baksay said. “…My partner and I are just going fishing. I had the worst practice I’ve ever had on this river. The fish are not where I normally think they should be.”

The field of 137 pros and 137 co-anglers will compete for two days to determine the top 20 pros and top 20 co-anglers who advance to day three, based on their two-day accumulated weight. Weights are cleared for day three and anglers compete for 10 spots in each division on day four. Winners are determined by the heaviest accumulated weight from days three and four.

Courtesy of FLW Outdoors

Lake Guntersville to Host Wal-Mart Bass Fishing League Bama Division Tournament 09/07/06

Scottsboro, AL. — The Bama Division of the $8.8 million Wal-Mart Bass Fishing League will visit Lake Guntersville near Scottsboro, Ala., Sept. 9-10 for their fifth and final regular-season event. As many as 200 boaters and 200 co-anglers are expected to compete in the tournament, which will award as much as $67,500 in cash, including as much as $9,000 to the Boater Division winner.

Goose Pond Marina in Scottsboro will host the takeoff and weigh-in at 6:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., respectively. Anglers will compete for prize money as well as points that count toward postseason competition. Every angler who receives weight credit in a tournament earns points, with 200 points going to the winner, 199 for second, 198 for third, and so on except for the season-ending Super Tournaments, which award 300 points to the winner, 299 points for second, 298 for third, and so on.

The winning co-angler will earn as much as $4,500 cash. The angler who catches the biggest bass of the day in the Boater Division will earn as much as $1,500, and the co-angler big-bass winner will earn as much as $750.

For more information or to enter the tournament, call (270) 252-1000 or browse FLWOutdoors.com. Tournament entries will also be accepted on-site during registration Sept. 8 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Wal-Mart store located at 24833 John T. Reid Parkway in Scottsboro. Entry fees are $200 for boaters and $100 for co-anglers. A $25 late fee also applies to entries taken on site along with a $25 membership fee for anglers who are not yet members of FLW Outdoors.

Courtesy of FLW Outdoors

Fifth Consecutive Victory Sets New ChampBoat Series Record @ Chicagoland Grand Prix 09/07/06

Fond du Lac, WI Sept. 06, 2006 – Rinker Strikes Again! Mercury Racing-powered Terry Rinker of Riverview, Fla., is now five for five in the 2006 ChampBoat Racing Series after winning the Greater Chicagoland Grand Prix on the Kankakee River in Kankakee, Ill., on Monday, Sept. 04. The win puts Rinker in the records books for winning the most consecutive races in ChampBoat Grand Prix Series history. The Kankakee River Roar race was round five of the 2006 ChampBoat Racing Series presented by Mercury Racing.

After the pole sitter, Rinker took advantage of Shaun Torrente who had built up a half lap lead and encountered mechanical woes that forced him to the trailer with 21 of 50 laps completed.

“We just let Shaun take off and lead the event and didn’t worry too much about it since he had struggled finishing all season long,” stated Rinker. “We now have the record but we aren’t going to stop: we’re hoping to make it a perfect season before this is all over.”

IPS Drives and the Joy of Joysticks 09/07/06

Inboard Performance System drives on Volvo Penta engines came around a couple years ago and made quite the splash. Now there is competition from another engine company. Not to worry, Volvo Penta has jumped out with another trick up their long sleeves. This time it is the joystick control for docking maneuvers. What a treat! It is like having thrusters without the noise and hassle. Because it is the engines being controlled, it is a constant use product where thrusters typically aren’t. It is about as simple to learn to use as cruise control on your car! Touch the shifters, wheel or throttles and it disengages. Get ready George Jetson, here we come!

For more information visit www.volvo.com/volvopenta/

U.S. Coast Guard Asks Congress to Allow Standards 09/07/06

The U.S. Coast Guard has finally stepped up to ask the Congress to give them the authority to set federal standards for operational proficiency for recreational boating. This would be mandatory education and likely would set a standard that can be met by state rules and approved by the Coast Guard. 44 states now have some requirement that at least cover some youth and personal watercraft. We agree that we need something as many accidents occur daily because of ignorance of basic safe operation. Surveys in the past have overwhelmingly agreed to some sort of mandatory education for boaters.

Accidental Oil Discharges Can Be Costly 09/07/06

If you have been a boater for long and are somewhat mechanically minded and frugal, you do some of your own maintenance and cleaning. With any mechanical device, you typically have to lubricate it and change the oil. If ANY of that oil reaches the water surrounding your boat, that could cost you dearly. There a many products that can save you and our environment: some new, some old.
• Oil blankets under the engine to catch drips should be changed frequently.
• Bilge socks are somewhat new in that some have microbes designed to “eat” the discharge. These need to be monitored and disposed of at times.
• In-line filters that separate oily discharge from bilge water must be monitored and changed.
• Use a plastic bag over your filters as you disconnect them to trap oil and fuel spills.

Baja’s Poker Run Wins “Most Exotic” Award 09/07/06

Baja’s PokerFace 35 Outlaw Poker Run Edition won the award for "Most Exotic Graphics" at the 1,000 Islands Poker Run held in Kingston, Ontario on Aug. 12, 2006, the world's largest international poker run. The 35 Outlaw received the top honor out of the more than 100 exotic performance boats at the event.

The PokerFace rig's success continued the following weekend when the International(r) CXT(tm) won "Best in Class" in the Heavy Duty Class at the Emerald Coast Tow Vehicle Shootout held at the Emerald Coast Poker Run on Aug. 19, 2006, in Fort Walton Beach, Fla.

The Emerald Coast Poker Run hosts numerous boats and tow vehicles each year to benefit the Emerald Coast Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to gathering resources, identifying needs, and distributing solutions for the benefit of children in Florida.

The PokerFace Baja 35 Outlaw Poker Run Edition and matching International(r) CXT(tm) have been making their way across the country for the PokerFace Poker Run Tour, stopping traffic with an incredible custom paint job by Kustom Kolors featuring the aces and eights of Dead Man's Hand surrounded by flames. The pair has been racking up the awards at events all summer and recently won "Most Impressive Rig" at the Chicago Poker Run and the first place trophy in the "Heavy Duty Truck" division at the Fifth Annual Jacksonville Fire & Police River Rally Run.

"We're excited that the PokerFace 35 Outlaw Poker Run Edition and International(r) CXT(tm) have received top awards at events as large as the 1,000 Islands Poker Run and the Emerald Coast Poker Run," said Barbara Grobicki, Baja's director of marketing. "We're proud of Baja's position among the best."

For more information visit bajamarine.com.

A Few Words from Capt. Bob Smith 09/07/06

I wanted to share with you a conversation I had yesterday with a customer, we'll call him Paul.

Paul was complaining that he had to pay a ticket that was issued to him from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. This was a ticket of a rather large size, nearly three hundred dollars. I asked him what the ticket was for and he told me that he was stopped after dark on his jet ski and was ticketed for not having lights. He also something mentioned about too many people on the jet ski, and something else mentioned about someone not having one of those life jacket things on. (Hold on, it gets better)

Paul at this point proceeded to tell me he wasn't aware that he had to have lights on his jet ski, since it didn't come with any. And he then mumbled again about the life jacket and capacity issue. I told him that IF he had attended a Boating Safety Class as I suggested to him several months before, he would have been made aware of the laws governing boating on our area waterways. He then asked me the cost and I told him the cost of materials. He told me at that point that the cost was way too much to pay. (I'm not the best at math, but a few bucks as opposed to a couple hundred?? And I thought MY math was bad)

Paul went on to say that he has been boating all his twenty something years of life and couldn't believe that there were that many rules. I casually mentioned automobile operation laws and regulations.

I'm sure that in every Division, Auxiliarists such as myself have a story to tell of some "ignorance of the law is an excuse" story that can be told. Probably one out of every twenty or thirty people I speak to about taking a boating safety class tell me "I've been boating all my life and I know how to operate a boat". Well, the same could be said about operating a vehicle on land, or flying an airplane. I myself can fly an airplane on my computer and had at one time become quite proficient at it. There are still laws, whether you operate a boat, car, airplane, or space shuttle, that you have to abide by and as Auxiliarists, we are an outlet for this education.

Through the conversation I had with this particular boater, I realized the enormous educational mountain that we have to overcome in our Public Education and Public Affairs Departments. I find it sad in itself that people are so blind to the regulations that govern our lives. These people are the reason we are in existence in the Auxiliary and yet we can't seem to reach them.

Talk about a challenge! Can you see where we fit in?

USA Water Ski Athletes of the Month 09/07/06

USA Water Ski has selected Tyler Scott of Covington, La., and Rachel George-Normand of Winter Haven, Fla., as its Male and Female Athletes of the Month for August. The Mad City Ski Team of Madison, Wis., was selected as Team of the Month. Scott, George-Normand and the Mad City Ski Team will now be eligible for the United States Olympic Committee’s Athletes and Team of the Month honors.

Scott won the Boys 2 national slalom title and set a pending national record of 2 buoys at 39-1/2 feet off at the 64th annual GOODE Water Ski National Championships, presented by Speedo, Aug. 14-19, at Ski West Village near Bakersfield, Calif. Scott, who owns the current national record of 1 buoy at 39-1/2 feet off, won the national title by nearly two passes. Earlier in the month, he set two other pending national records at 1-1/2 at 39-1/2 off and 2 at 39-1/2 in Boys 2 slalom.

George-Normand captured her seventh national overall title in Open Women after winning titles in slalom, tricks and jumping at the 29th annual Barefoot Water Ski National Championships, Aug. 8-12, at USA Water Ski’s Lake Grew facility. She won slalom with 14.20 points, tricks with 2,720 points and jumping with a 41-foot jump. She earned the overall title with 3,000 points.

Courtesy of USAwaterski.org

2006 Barefoot Worlds Begins Saturday September 9th 09/07/06

The 2006 Barefoot Water Ski World Championships gets under way on September 9th at Lake Silverado in Adna, Wash. For the first time, the biennial elite world championships will be held simultaneously with the biennial Junior and Senior Barefoot Water Ski World Championships. The Elite Barefoot Worlds is taking place for the 15th time, while the Junior Barefoot Worlds is taking place for the seventh time, and the Senior Barefoot Worlds is commencing for the fifth time. The eight-day tournament concludes on Sunday, Sept. 17.

The U.S. Elite Barefoot Water Ski Team has won 10 consecutive world team titles. Australia is the defending team champion of the Junior and Senior Worlds.

Lake Silverado is located one hour north of Portland, Ore., and one hour south of Seattle, Wash. The 2,675-foot lake is lined by 1,400 trees and will be the longest private ski lake to have ever hosted a world championships’ event.

Courtesy of USAwaterski.org

Final Big Dawg Qualifier Set 09/07/06

The fourth and final qualifying stop of the inaugural Ski Nautique Big Dawg Slalom Series will be held this Saturday September 9 and Sunday September 10 at Skyview Lake in Harmony, N.C. Anyone finishing in the top eight at the event receives an automatic berth to the series championship, which is scheduled for Sept. 30-Oct. 1 at the Isles of Lake Hancock in Winter Garden, Fla.

The Ski Nautique Big Dawg Slalom Series, which pits Men’s 34 mph slalom skiers - age 35 and over - in thrilling head-to-head match ups, consists of four qualifying stops, each with a $5,000 purse, and one championship, with a $10,000 purse. Jeff Danos of Mandeville, La., won the first stop of the series on June 25 at the Bayou Big Dawg in Covington, La. Lucky Lowe of Lake Alfred, Fla., won the second stop on July 16 at Bellalago Lake in Leavittsburg, Ohio, and Canada's David Miller won the third stop of the series on Aug. 27 at Diablo Shores in Brentwood, Calif.

The Big Dawg slalom tournaments have become popular among participants over the past two years because the skiers are not fragmented into divisions, and the winners are declared after a thrilling head-to-head format. At the regional and national championships, titles are awarded to the winners in Men 3, Men 4, Men 5 and Masters 55K, the top divisions for 34 mph slalom athletes. At the Big Dawg events, there is only one division, and ultimately, one Big Dawg.

Courtesy of USAwaterski.org

Third Named Tropical Storm 08/02/06

As we consider our third named tropical storm in the 2006 Atlantic Season, we should reflect on one of the most overlooked features of our planning for a d