Boating Tips & Tricks You May Not Know

Boating Tips & Tricks You May Not Know

If you’ve been boating for many years, you probably know your share of tips and tricks to make your boating experience go as smoothly as possible, but who couldn’t use a few more?  Below is a list of boating tips and tricks that you may not know that could result in a much easier and happier boating experience: Morning dew is just distilled water. Try wiping your boat off with it and it will be spot free! If you’re looking for a mirror-like shine, remove the wax from last season with a dewaxing solvent before applying new wax. Instead of using harmful or toxic chemicals like bleach to kill mold, use a green-alternative, white vinegar, using a spray bottle. If you have a scratched windshield or sunglasses, a polish like 3M Finesse or countertop polishes works well.Oven cleaner spray, such as Easy-Off, will remove adhesive residue and paint from gelcoat without damage.To fix any clogged aerosol paint can nozzles, try removing it and soaking it...
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Crucial Equipment Each Boater Should Have

Crucial Equipment Each Boater Should Have

Boating is a joyous activity and sport that can be done in various places and for various reasons. It is a great weekend adventure that promotes relaxation and helps you to unwind after a long week, but a boating trip can go quite wrong if you don’t have the proper equipment.  The following are some essentials that you should have on hand when out on your boat: Navigation Systems Navigation systems are used to help guide the boat from your starting destination point to the desired end point. Since there aren’t any signs on the water that can tell you where you are headed, a navigation system is essential so you don’t get lost. There are many different types of navigation systems and techniques to choose from and one might fit your needs better than another might. It is best to do some research and learn the different functions of each. Gyro Compass A gyro compass helps you navigate the sea and is used to...
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Boating is Good for Your Mental Health

Boating is Good for Your Mental Health

Boating is not only a fun activity or used for means of travel;  it also offers many mental health benefits. Taking a ride or a trip on a boat relaxes your mind and can help by distracting your thoughts, allowing a break from your everyday routine.  Boating positively impacts your state of mind and well-being in more ways than one: Boating is Meditative Spending time on a boat goes a long way in helping to combat the stresses of everyday life. It allows you time to think, recharge, enjoy nature, and focus on the present moment. It provides you with a sense of peace, calm, and awe. Boating Can Reset Your Mind Anyone can become burned out or exhausted from working non-stop or from not having enough time away from the mundane. Being on the water helps you to relax, find happiness, contentment, and healing.  Improves Social Life Boating with friends and/or family offers many benefits to your mental health by improving your social life. Having a...
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Best Boating in Florida

Best Boating in Florida

Florida, also known as “the sunshine state,” is often thought of as the boating capital of the world. This makes perfect sense because of the sunshine and plenty of access to water.  There are many amazing and beautiful spots for boating in Florida, but these are some of the most gorgeous and  highly-rated locations: Florida Keys The Florida Keys offers variety and a sense of paradise for boaters. It consists of several beautiful islands with off-shore and in-shore fishing, sandbars, warm, clear water, and multiple reefs for snorkeling and diving. Additionally, the Florida Keys has many dining options to choose from and great diversity within communities.  Charlotte Harbor Charlotte Harbor is almost like a smaller version of the Florida Keys. It boasts tons of islands, beautiful, uncrowded beaches, and is a dream come true for boaters! You’ll also find some iconic places here such as Sanibel Island, Boca Grande, Cabbage Key, North Captiva Island, and Useppa Island. Jupiter/Palm Beach Jupiter/Palm Beach is one of the nicest areas...
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5 Boating Tips you need this Summer

5 Boating Tips you need this Summer

Here comes summer, and you know what that means? It's officially the boating season! The sun is stronger than ever, the days are longer, heat is coming right up, and the days are mostly spent on the water. To make your days boating extra fun, you should take some boating tips with you during your adventures. So, get your coolers and engine starting because summer boating season is now rolling in. Cover Up Everyone knows that the summer heat is quite intense, but the sun's rays are even stronger when you are on the water? Whether you are in or beside the water, it reflects the sun's rays causing your skin to be damaged. That's why it's essential to take care of your skin. To get the most of a sunny day in the water, apply sunscreen every 80 minutes to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays. Use a 30SPF face stick as an addition to carrying it with you while in...
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Fourth Annual Chad Day Fishing Tournament Set For April 10

Fourth Annual Chad Day Fishing Tournament Set For April 10

The fourth annual Chad Day Fishing Tournament will be held on Sunday, April 10th at the Tarpon Bay Grill and Tiki Bar, located at 7150 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243. The family-friendly tournament will kick off on Saturday, April 9th after the mandatory captain’s meeting, held at the Tarpon Bay Grill and Tiki Bar, at 3PM. All anglers are encouraged to attend, but at least one member of each team must be present. The catch and release tournament includes snook, redfish, and trout and all entry photos must be submitted by Sunday at 2PM. The entry fee per boat is $280 for up to 4 anglers. Each additional angler is $70, with a max of 6 people per team. A total of $6000 worth of prizes will be awarded to tournament winners. For each species, first prize will receive $1000, second $700, and third $300.  The event will also include raffles, silent auctions, and live music. Raffle tickets can be purchased 11AM-6PM...
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Florida Announced As “Boating Capital Of The World”

Florida Announced As “Boating Capital Of The World”

On Friday, March 18, 2022, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission dubbed Florida the “Boating Capital of the World.” More people than ever are moving to the beautiful sunshine state and over 1 million boats are currently registered in Florida. 74,622 vessels are registered in Miami-Dade County, 53,867 in Pinellas County, 50,304 in Lee County, 47,741 in Broward County, and 41,495 in Hillsborough County. The state of Florida requires boats to be registered within 30 days of purchase with the local tax collector. Vessels that are not motor-powered and shorter than 16 feet are not required to be registered. With a record number of boats on the water, safety is more important than ever. In a statement from the commission’s Boating and Waterways Section Leader, Major Rob Beaton said, “With more boats on the water, we want to spread the word about boating safety to both residents and visitors enjoying Florida’s year-round boating season. A safe day while boating is a great...
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South Florida Kayak Fishing Spots

SOUTH FLORIDA: ARE YOU FISHING FOR NEW KAYAK SPOTS? We all agree that fishing is fun and highly relaxing, like Kayaking. Summertime is fast approaching. Get your kayak and fishing gear ready, here are some great spots to go for a good time and even better kayak fishing. Located in the northern-most city in Palm Beach County, Jupiter brings you Loxahatchee River. Try not to get lost in the beautiful scenery it offers, (or perhaps do try). The slow flowing river makes it a perfect destination for laid-back fishing. The river remains one of the waters with wild ecosystems. It offers a mixture of fresh and saltwater fishes that allows catching different species of fish. You can get lucky and catch largemouth bass, common snook, and more!  Florida is dubbed as the fishing capital of the world. Visiting Lake Okeechobee is something that you would need on your kayak bucket list, hands down. The river covers an enormous space of 730 square miles. It...
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Tips For Planning A Family Fishing Trip

Tips For Planning A Family Fishing Trip

Thinking of a family fishing trip but don’t know where to start? Whether you are traveling long distance or skipping down the road, planning a fishing trip as a family can be stressful. Here are some tips to help ease the stress and ensure you have a REEly great experience! LocationLocation can play a huge factor in planning any trip as a family. Doing your research on the general area will be helpful in many ways. Is there lodging? If you plan to camp out  is there easy access to restrooms? Kids seem to always want what is not already available to them so if a trip to a convenient store is necessary it would be really great to be able to get to one quickly. Finding the perfect location can be difficult to meet everyone’s needs, but it is possible with a little planning ahead! Organization The key component to a successful trip for anyone is organization. Making sure that you have everything...
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5 Waterfront Restaurants Around Bradenton

5 Waterfront Restaurants Around Bradenton

Is there anything better than enjoying a wonderful meal outside near the water? There are numerous restaurants in the Bradenton area with delicious bites and beautiful water views. Here are some of our local favorites: Riviera Dunes Dockside Social Bar and Grill 102 Riviera Dunes Way, Palmetto; 941-304-3689; rivieradunesdockside.com Of course we have to start with our closest outdoor eatery, the Riviera Dunes Dockside Social Bar and Grill! Overlooking our marina, the restaurant offers ample patio seating and an outdoor bar. Enjoy live music and daily happy hour specials as well as brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 - 3PM.  Caddy’s801 Riverside Drive E., Bradenton; 941-708-3777; caddys.com Caddy’s in Bradenton is a tropical paradise perfect for the whole family. Enjoy lawn games, beach volleyball courts, firepits, and live music. The menu features beachy American eats and there’s truly something for everyone. Those craving seafood can enjoy the Grouper Reuben or Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna. They also have various salads, burgers, and delicious shareable appetizers. Riverhouse...
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