Boat Trader Insider - Official boat blog of Boat Trader

Boat Trader to Attend 2010 Miami International Boat Show

2010-01-06T15:30:00.001-05:00

Boat Trader will be attending the 2010 Miami International Boat Show & Strictly Sail Miami on February 11-15, 2010. Look for Boat Trader at Booth 065.

According to the show's organizers, the five-day event draws tens of thousands of visitors each year and hosts more than 2,000 exhibitors from around the world, filling the Miami Beach Convention Center and Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center with thousands of boats and hundreds of booths showcasing the latest gear and accessories.

Here are other upcoming boat shows:

24th Nashville Boat & Sportshow
January 6-10, 2009 | Nashville Convention Center | Nashville, TN
www.nashvilleboatshow.com

40th New Orleans Boat & Sportshow
January 6-10, 2009 | New Orleans Morial Convention Center | New Orleans, LA
www.neworleansboatshow.com

56th Kansas City Boat & Sportshow
January 7-10, 2009 | H. Roe Bartle Hall | Kansas City, MO
www.kansascitysportshow.com

80th Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show
January 13-17, 2009 | McCormick Place - North | Chicago, IL
www.chicagoboatshow.com

What Were Your Best Boating Memories of 2009?

2010-01-05T13:00:00.001-05:00

Now that 2010 is here, we would like to know what your best memories were of 2009.

Did you decorate your boat for Christmas? Did you attend a boating party on the water? Aquapalooza? Poker runs? July 4th on the water?

We want to hear about it! Leave a comment below.

Even if You Have a GPS for Your Boat, You Still Need a Compass

2010-01-04T14:15:00.004-05:00

In the age of GPS units and digital mapping software, using a compass might seem like a needless skill.

According to an article on News-Press.com, the centuries old practice of compass-reading is still necessary for any boater.

While a compass is not pinpoint accurate as a GPS, it does not use electricity either and serves as a handy backup system if you lose power out on the water.

We want to hear from you. Was there ever a time you had to use your compass as a last resort to find your way back to land? Do you prefer to use a standard compass over a GPS unit? Leave a commment and tell us.

Source: News-Press.com

Submit a Photo or Video of Your Pet On The Water!

2009-12-30T13:30:00.003-05:00

Do you have photos or even video of you and your pets enjoying the boating lifestyle? If so, send them to us! On January 11th, Boat Trader will launch the "Pets on the Water" photo and video contest.

Three Finalists will be selected and then it's up to you to vote for the best "Pet on the Water!" The winner will receive a Flip Camcorder courtesy of Boat Trader.

How it works:

Submit your photos or videos by visiting the Boat Trader Blog between January 11-February 12.
Judges select three Finalists.
Boat Trader users (that's you!) vote for their favorite between February 12-28.
Winners will be announced on March 3, 2010 Keep up with the latest news about the contest, as well as new entries on Facebook!

Become a FaceBook Fan of Boat Trader.

Can the RV Market Predict the Outlook for the Boating Industry in 2010?

2009-12-29T14:10:00.002-05:00

There's a long-standing belief that the RV market leads the boating industry by about six months, and feedback from those in the RV and marine trades indicates that formula is holding true in this recession.

Fleetwood and Monaco, two of the RV world's largest manufacturers, filed for and emerged from Chapter 11 restructurings. While some components of the brands were lopped off or modified (or sold off entirely), both remain in business.

Meanwhile, the marine industry's second-largest manufacturer, Genmar, remains embroiled in a difficult bankruptcy process, with no clear sense of what the final outcome will be.

Both industries have had to deal with credit crunches that have stunted their rebounds, and most forecast a long, drawn-out recovery. Suppliers and vendors to both marine and RV manufacturers have faltered precariously. Weakness in consumer confidence is keeping sales difficult to come by.

Those customers who are buying are tending toward smaller boats and RVs. But if the RV industry is a leading economic indicator, there are some reasons to be hopeful.

Credit seems to be easing slightly, as RV dealers find both wholesale and retail financing options through local lenders who are looking to replace lost car dealership clientele. Shipments are increasing, meaning at best that improved sales are ahead, and, at worst, that dealers are clearing and replacing their aged inventory with new models.

And whether the numbers support it or not, the prevailing perception is that the RV industry is doing better overall.

Both the RV and marine industries have lost dealers and manufacturers. The RV industry has counted 170 dealerships that have gone out of business since 2007, out of a total of 3,000, according to Phil Ingrassia of the National RV Dealers Association. It's a small percentage, but it’s much higher than the typical 15 to 20 closings the RVDA tracks in a typical year.

Some think the marine industry must contract more to shrink capacity to demand, but experts say it won't become as small as the RV industry.

The NMMA estimates that around 20 percent of boat dealers have failed — some 1,500 of approximately 6,000. The marine industry is losing dealers more quickly than the RV industry because so many are undercapitalized and overstocked, says Phil Keeter, president of the Marine Retailers Association of America. RV dealers tend to have one or two brands, while it's common for boat dealers to carry five or more, making the RV dealer more stable.

Just as unemployment numbers tend to be a lagging economic indicator, the RV industry seems to be a leading indicator, says Mack Bryan, vice president of the RVIA. Though sales dipped similarly through 2008 and the first two quarters of 2009, according to Statistical Surveys data, the perception is that the RV side is rebounding ahead of the boating industry.

"We're definitely seeing the RV side recover quicker than we're seeing the boat side recover, although there are still some similarities where maybe larger motor homes and larger boats are softer, and smaller boats and smaller trailer sales are improving," says Chris Hoover of Ron Hoover RV and Marine Center, which has five locations in south Texas.

After both industries focused on clearing out aging inventory, combined with a credit shortage, there is little product in the pipeline.The RV industry is also moving to a system that allows consumers to dictate production.

That is especially true for dealers who sell higher-end motor homes, since those already were declining in popularity before the recession's onset, says Mack Bryan, vice president of the RVIA. In 2006, that segment accounted for about 15 percent of the 390,000 units sold. Now it’s less than 10 percent, says Bryan.

If the RV industry does, in fact, lead marine, that could be a cue for dealers who sell larger vessels to pay close attention to their inventories, Bryan says.

YouTube Video of Holiday Boat Parades From Coast to Coast

2009-12-23T15:15:00.003-05:00

Lighted boat parades are a holiday tradition anywhere you find a community of boaters. There are so many that you would spend a fortune in boat fuel trying to see just a fraction of them.

YouTube users have uploaded video of boat parades from across the country. Here's a few of the clips we found.

Holiday Boat Parade 2009 Delray Beach, Florida

2009 Treasure Island Holiday Lighted Boat Parade

San Rafael Lighted Boat Parade 2009

Have you shot video of your local boat parade? Post a link in our comments section or send us a tweet at twitter.com/boattrader.

Happy Holidays!

Source: You Tube

Solar-Electric Boat from Electro-Mariner Corp Makes Debut at San Diego Bay Parade of Light

2009-12-22T09:00:00.014-05:00

Sign on San Diego recently reported that the 38th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights featured the public debut of "Charge It": a solar-electric prototype boat built by Electro-Mariner Corp.

Photo Credit: Electro-Mariner

According to the story, Charge It is a a 25-foot express-style vessel that can charge its batteries using sunlight or from dockside electrical outlets.

The inventors at Electro-Mariner faced challenges ranging from fitting batteries into the boat to concerns about salt-water. The new challenge is convincing boaters an electric boat can compete with gas-powered models.

Electro-Mariner Corp says their boats will be able to run at 20 knots for one hour or at nine knots for four hours.

Source: Sign On San Diego and Electro-Mariner

What Do Boaters Want For Christmas?

2009-12-21T14:51:00.004-05:00

Photo Credit: BoatUS

Boat US reports that in a multiple-choice opinion poll of the association’s more than half-million power and sailboat-owning members asking for their Christmas gift wishes, a new Global Positioning System (GPS) was the #1 choice with 22% of all votes, while “a new boat” and “foul weather gear,” came in second and third, respectively.

Additionally, a remarkable 36% admitted they had been bad and would expect nothing from Santa this year.

“From this data we can assume that ‘good’ boaters don’t like being lost, and also enjoy being aboard shiny new boats in the rain,” said BoatUS spokesman Scott Croft.

Source: BoatUS

Put Local Weather Online with New Vantage Vue and Weatherlink IP

2009-12-21T14:30:00.001-05:00

Photo Credit: Davis Instruments

The new Vantage Vue weather station from Davis Instruments provides real-time, local weather monitoring with alarms, graphs and loads of weather details. Vantage Vue works with Davis' WeatherLinkIP software to create a personal weather website for the unit and connects it to a global network of Davis weather stations. It's perfect for people who want to monitor weather conditions at their home, lake house, marina, yacht club or dock.

Photo Credit: Davis Instruments

The versatile Vantage Vue employs frequency-hopping spread spectrum radio technology to wirelessly send data up to 1,000' to the console. With an easy-to-read, backlit, 3" x 4-3/8" LCD screen, the advanced console displays indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed and direction and rainfall. The console offers over 50 on-screen graphs and allows 22 different alarms to warn of dangers, such as high winds, possible floods, freezing temperatures and rain rate.

Source: Davis Instruments

Arid Bilge Systems' Series 4 Keeps Boats Dry

2009-12-11T16:00:00.002-05:00

Photo Credit: Arid Bilge Systems

After pumping the bilge, there's usually still some water left behind, resulting in odors, mildew and damage from the condensation. Now owners can stop worrying and relax in a boat that doesn't smell like a boat. Arid Bilge Systems' patented Series 4 automatically maintains a dry bilge at all times.

Eliminating wet vacs and bilge diapers, small, customized pickups are placed throughout the different bilge compartments where they act like the perfect crew member an owner never had. All the residual water will be gone in a matter of hours, maintaining the bilges bone dry.

Featuring single-point discharge, the Series 4 can be T-connected to an existing overboard thru-hull. Alkon push-lock fittings and Mazzer polyethylene tubing are used to attach the central unit to the remote pickups.

Source: Arid Bilge Systems

2010 NMMA Boat & Sport Shows To Highlight Affordable Boats

2009-12-08T14:00:00.001-05:00

The National Marine Manufacturers Association has announced that 2010 NMMA shows throughout the U.S. will feature the Affordability Pavilion – a special area on the show floor featuring boats that can be financed for $250 or less per month.

The Affordability Pavilion makes its debut at the 2010 Kansas City Boat & Sportshow, St. Louis Boat & Sportshow, and Northwest Sportshow.

According to the NMMA, while recreational boating in the U.S. is perceived to be an activity for the affluent, the vast majority of boaters are middleclass. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s 2008 Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, approximately 75 percent of boat owners have a household income under $100,000, and an estimated 95 percent of boats on the water today are trailerable boats that are 26 feet or less.

“As we pull out of the recession, we want to make sure interested buyers are aware that boating is within reach. The Affordability Pavilion is an excellent way for our exhibitors to break down the costs associated with boating and illustrate just how affordable boating can be.” noted Ben Wold, executive vice president of NMMA who also oversees all NMMA boat shows.

It will return for the second year to the 2010 Atlanta Boat Show; Atlantic City International Power Boat Show; Baltimore Boat Show; Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show; Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow; Miami International Boat Show & Strictly Sail Miami; Minneapolis Boat Show; Nashville Boat & Sportshow; and New York Boat Show.

Source: NMMA

Malibu Boats Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V Boat Reaches End of Production Run

2009-12-07T08:00:00.001-05:00

Malibu Boats has announced that the last Corvette boat has motored off the assembly line and this storied production run is officially over.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

According to Malibu Boats, nearly two years and 50 boats later, the Malibu Corvette Limited Sport-V has earned the awards and World-renown recognition befitting a cultural icon. And while a few production Corvette boats are available at select Malibu Boats dealerships, most of these boats have found homes.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

Produced from December 2007 through November 2009, the Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V was the fastest production towboat ever created. The Corvette truly embodied Malibu Boats “Pushing Limits” mantra. The 505hp Corvette LS7 came standard in the Z06 Edition Malibu Corvette pushed the success of this Malibu boat even further. But this innovative performance machine is more than power and speed.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

Dubbed, “the Corvette that runs on water,” this Malibu boat is truly a Corvette. It was not just styled after the C6 Corvette. Every part of this vessel screams Corvette. The Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V was the epitome of Corvette Americana with a long list of powerfully innovative features.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

A Patented Power Wing Windshield, authentic Corvette high-back seats, an 8-speaker Malibu-Rockford Fosgate Stereo System, rear vents styled after the Corvette taillights and designed for through-hull ventilation, the signature Corvette “Cove” and a hood modeled after the car, which opened to reveal a specific storage center and the core of the stereo system.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

Source: Malibu Boats

RESOURCES

Aqualuma Underwater Lighting's LUMA-Vu Underwater Camera

2009-11-30T14:30:00.000-05:00

Photo Credit: Aqualuma

Offering the possibility of recording amazing moments, Aqualuma Underwater Lighting's LUMA-Vu Underwater Camera enables owners to document an amazing catch during a tournament or simply watch the aquatic environment below from the comfort of their saloon or bridge. Enhancing life while out on the water, this camera provides an underwater viewpoint from a perspective never before available.

Photo Credit: Aqualuma

The camera can be connected to entertainment systems, or to an electronics screen which supports video inputs in a wheelhouse, making viewing underwater life even easier. By simply flipping the switch on their Aqualuma Underwater Lights, owners can continue the show into the night, viewing fish schools in the glow. When competing in tag and release fishing competitions, the camera can also help validate a big catch, possibly securing the tournament win.

The high-resolution color CCTV camera's bulletproof housing is manufactured with the patented Aqualuma corrosion-proof, high-tech, molded polymer housing. It comes in either NTSC or PAL formats with a very wide angle 3.6mm lens.

Source: Aqualuma

Boat Dealers Who Respond To Leads Within Two Hours Have 20 Percent Conversion Rate

2009-11-24T01:30:00.002-05:00

Dealers have a 20 percent conversion rate on leads that get a response within two hours, ARI/Channel Blade director of education Bob McCann told attendees at the recent Marine Dealer Conference & Expo, held Nov. 16-18 in Orlando, Fla.

That rate, he said, drops down to 2 percent for a response that takes four or more hours.

So why then is the industry's average response time 23.91 hours?

"The Internet doesn't sell boats, the good dealers do," McCann said. "The Internet is serving us up opportunities."

However, if not used correctly, the Internet - especially a dealer's Web site - could be a liability. And considering 62 percent of buyer’s use the Web to research a product before purchasing it, dealers can’t afford to miss those leads.

Dealers should think of that initial e-mail contact as a “meet and greet,” after all, if someone walked into the dealership, they wouldn’t be ignored.

McCann said 129 dealers at the conference were "mystery shopped" by being sent an e-mail lead. He heard back from 77 percent - or 99 dealers.

Of those, 60 percent responded with an e-mail, 40 percent with a phone call and 23 percent with both. However, the average response time was 25.86 hours for this group of dealers.

Of 1,347 dealers industry-wide who have been "mystery shopped," only 56 percent responded. Of those, 43 percent responded through e-mail, 26 percent through a phone call and 13 percent through both.

McCann suggested dealers respond with an e-mail and follow up with a phone call. That phone call, he said, should be used to set up a face-to-face meeting.

E-mails, he said, need to contain a dealer's logo on top of the e-mail; a subject line that gives the dealer's name, as well as the brand name; an answer to any questions the potential customer may have asked in their initial inquiry, such as price, and it should set the stage for a phone call.

Dealers may also want to attach photos and include any sales programs that may interest the potential customer.

A template that can be easily personalized is a good idea to keep on hand, McCann said.

Following his presentation, McCann awarded sales people from the following dealerships Pride awards for their lead responses: Bohner Lacefield Marine, Lake Union Sea Ray, Lynnhaven Marine, Dockside Marine and Seattle Boats.

Boating Industry Magazine Announces 24 Of The Top 100 Boat Dealers In North America Are Sea Ray Dealers

2009-11-23T14:30:00.000-05:00

Brunswick has announced that according to a ranking by a leading marine trade publication, 24 of the top 100 boat dealers in North America are Sea Ray dealers. That’s more than any other boat manufacturer on the list.

Brunswick reports that half of the top 10 dealers are Sea Ray dealers, and the number one dealer in the ranking, Sail & Ski Center of Austin, Texas, is also a Sea Ray dealer.

We’re very proud of our Sea Ray dealers that earned recognition on Boating Industry’s Top 100 Dealers List,” said Rob Parmentier, president of Sea Ray. “We have worked diligently with all of our dealers in a true spirit of partnership to deliver the best experience for today’s boater. The fact that we had 24 dealers on this year’s list, compared to 21 last year, shows that we and our dealers continue to improve our customer service and satisfaction.

Source: Brunswick

Plastiki - A Boat Made From Recycled Plastic Sets Out To Help Protect Oceans

2009-11-18T16:00:00.004-05:00

USA Today reports on the upcoming voyage of Plastiki, a 60-foot catamaran made entirely out of recycled plastic bottles.

According to the USA Today story, Plastiki took two years to create and is set for a 11,000-mile next month across the Pacific from San Francisco to Sydney.

Plastiki was created by David de Rothschild, who wants to raise awareness of the problem that plastic waste causes for the world’s oceans.

USA Today also features video of Rothschild explaining the design and construction of Plastiki.

You can learn more about Plastiki at the offical site for The Plastiki Expedtion

Source: The Plastiki Expedition and USA Today

Caterpillar Launches Cat C9 ACERT Engines with Zeus Pod Drives

2009-11-10T15:30:00.000-05:00

Caterpillar Marine Power Systems has announced that the Cat C9 ACERT marine engine is now compatible with the innovative Zeus Pod Drive.

According to Caterpillar, because the Cat C9 ACERT engine is perfectly balanced with the pod drive, customers will notice smoother and more accurate maneuverability from the independent joystick control.

Photo Credit: Caterpillar Marine Power Systems

Another advantage is that the aft-facing pod drive results in greater efficiency, without sacrificing safety because the propellers are protected by the pod’s gear case and a skeg should the drive encounter underwater debris.

The Caterpillar C9 ACERT – Zeus Pod Drive System combination was tested with different yachts under a variety of conditions, including a 44-feet Sea Ray yacht that completed a demo tour along the eastern seaboard of the United States. Regular deliveries of the package began in summer 2009, following great interest expressed by well-known yacht builders world-wide.

Photo Credit: Caterpillar Marine Power Systems

“Engineering the Cat C9 ACERT engine together with the Zeus Pod Drive System reflects the desire of our customers for additional power, control and safety,” said David Shannon, Manager Global Pleasure Craft, Caterpillar Marine Power Systems. “With Cat C-series marine engines already regarded as a gold standard for performance in pleasure craft, they will now also become recognized for unparalleled enjoyment in pleasure craft!”

Source: Caterpillar Marine Power Systems

Gen II 3 Series Lights Offer Double The Output

2009-11-05T12:30:00.000-05:00

Photo Credit: Aqualuma Underwater Lighting

Aqualuma Underwater Lighting offers its Gen II 3 Series Lights, aking the boating experience more illuminating and colorful.

According to Aqualuma Underwater Lighting, innovations from the Gen II range include more than double the light output for the 3 Series.

Another upgrade is Aqualuma's exclusive one-piece, non-corrosive housing, which now features a new tint for enhanced clarity and is resistant to chemicals. This housing enables Gen II lights to be fitted with any sealant approved for below water applications.

Photo Credit: Aqualuma Underwater Lighting

The lights are offered with a standard beam of 12˚ or a wide-angle, elliptical beam of 12˚ x 50˚. They draw less than 0.5 amps at 12V or less than 0.3 amps at 24V. If necessary, the exclusive one-piece housing allows the three LEDs' driver and LEDs to be serviced without hauling out the vessel.

Available in Ultra Blue, Ultra Green or Brilliant White, Aqualuma's Gen II 3 Series Lights come with 12' of tinned cable and a three-year warranty.

Source: Aqualuma Underwater Lighting

The 450 Sea Ray Sundancer

2009-11-03T13:40:00.001-05:00

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

Sea Ray recently introduced the new 450 Sundancer, equipped with features like standard Axius propulsion system with joystick control, a fiberglass hardtop with retractable sunroof, a cockpit entertainment center with optional grill and TV, and a designated “media room” in the cabin.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

According to Sea Ray, the 450 Sundancer builds upon the versatility of its Sundancer siblings with a seamless hardtop and bonded-in windshield that provide unsurpassed climate control thanks to a forward vent, sunroof, and optional cockpit air conditioning/heating. The benefit is comfortable boating in all kinds of weather. Two, doublewide benches with flip-up bolsters and armrests serve the helm and port console.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

The helm itself comes with a full complement of driving and navigation aids to make operation easier than ever, from the SmartCraft VesselView display, to the Axius or Zeus joystick control, to the amazing Skyhook station-keeping feature. Twin diesel Zeus® pod drives are also available either with the QSB 380’s or the QSB 480’s, allowing customers to personalize their power depending on how and where they boat.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

Leisure possibilities abound at the large, U-shaped cockpit lounge with removable table. The aft-most backrest of this seat is split, and the two sections pivot open to create an extension of the sun pad, which has abundant storage below for lines, fenders, and other necessary items. On the starboard side of the cockpit, a big, L-shaped wet bar with icemaker will keep everyone hydrated, and owners can choose to add an optional grill, refrigerator, and removable 19” flatscreen TV to create an “outdoor galley” atmosphere.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

Under the sleek exterior of the 450 lies a classic-contemporary interior, with top-of-the-line cabinetry from Sea Ray’s Cape Canaveral Woodworking & Finishing Facility, Ultraleather seating, brushed chrome accents, and optional wood floors. Ambient light from the oversized hull windows and skylight gives a natural glow to the earthy materials used in the cabin.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

The forward stateroom features a full-size island V-berth with memory foam mattress and electric extension and Posturepedic backrest, plus a Shoji-style sliding door and separate head and shower compartments with tile floors. The main cabin houses a spacious galley with stainless-steel appliances and loads of storage along the port side; to starboard, a dining area with folding table easily coverts to a sleeper. The Sony stereo located here comes fully outfitted with an iPod docking station, CD player, Sirius satellite receiver, amplifier, subwoofer, and more.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

At the heart of its entertainment-ready interior, the new 450 features a unique media room abaft the salon that comes complete with theater seats, accent lights, and an entertainment system boasting a gaming system port, MP3 port, DVD player, and a 32-inch TV. If it's true surround-sound feel you're looking for and a large-screen experience, select the optional entertainment package that offers the Bose 3-2-1 System and 37-inch flatscreen.

Photo Credit: Sea Ray

A long list of options allows the owner to rig the new 450 Sundancer with advanced electronics, generators, teak exterior decking, a foredeck sun pad, hydraulic-lift swim platform, rod holders, and several choices of upgraded stereos and TVs throughout.

Source: Sea Ray

Boat Trader Releases iPhone Application

2009-11-02T15:15:00.006-05:00

Boat Trader has released a free iPhone application on iTunes offering more than 100,000 new and used boats, yachts, sailboats and personal watercrafts at shoppers' fingertips.

The Boat Trader application is GPS-sensitive and shoppers can find a dealer in their vicinity or search for boats by type, new/used condition, price range and model year - in a specific zip code or by location! Users can also view multiple boat and dealer locations on enhanced Google maps and quickly access driving directions.

You can download the Boat Trader app from the iTunes Official Store.

Source: Boat Trader

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show Turns 50

2009-10-27T16:00:00.003-04:00

Photo Credit: Show Managment

TCpalm.com reports on the upcoming Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, running October 29 to November 2, 2009, and the hopes for a rebound in the boat market.

Photo Credit: Show Managment

According to the site for the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the world's largest boat show is turning 50 this year and will celebrate with an extravaganza of more than $3 billion worth of boats, yachts, superyachts, electronics, engines and thousands of accessories from every major marine manufacturer and builder worldwide.

Photo Credit: Show Managment

The show encompasses more than 3 million square feet of space, both on land and in water, at six sites and are all connected by the official Show Transportation Network.

Source: TCPalm and The Fort Lauderdale Boat Show

Breathe - Maximize Your Baitwell’s Efficiency

2009-10-23T10:30:00.000-04:00

by Steve Dougherty

It was a steamy dawn along the mainland of Mexico as I boarded a rickety panga in hopes of battling the Pacific’s most powerful pelagics. We pushed the wooden skiff off the beach and battled the shorebreak en route to the local bait boat.

We dumped two 5-gallon buckets of seawater into the front bulkhead and with the addition of a dozen frisky goggle-eye we were on our way. An occasional bucket of fresh saltwater dumped into the makeshift baitwell and our baits seemed as happy as could be, that was until the early afternoon sun finally took its toll on the susceptible scad.

This rudimentary livewell system is still widely used in many impoverished countries, however since the introduction of live chumming, kite-fishing, and release tournaments where anglers are required to weigh their catch alive, the technological advancements onboard baitwell systems have received, and the extent some fishermen go to keep their baits in prime shape, are quite impressive.

It’s no secret that baitfish need clean, cool, oxygenated water to survive. If removed from their natural environment and placed in less than ideal conditions, their chance of survival decreases by the minute. This explains why it’s a challenge to find any new boat that isn’t outfitted with at least one well-plumbed baitwell. The fact of the matter is that the ability to keep baitfish alive throughout the entire day is an essential factor to any angler’s overall success, inshore or off.

An effective baitwell essentially accomplishes three things. It provides life-sustaining oxygen, prevents the accumulation of harmful waste products, and keeps offerings frisky and stress free. Generally, high-powered pumps that provide a constant exchange of saltwater provide plenty of cool and clean water, but under certain circumstances you may need to increase oxygen content. Items such as The OXYGENATOR (www.keepfishalive.com) utilize a scientific process that splits the water molecule into separate elements – hydrogen and oxygen.

The oxygen bubbles quickly dissolve into the water while the lighter and larger hydrogen bubbles rise to the surface where they dissipate back into the atmosphere. Lets not overlook the fact that warm water holds less dissolved oxygen than cool water, so if you believe your precious baits are succumbing too quickly, during the blistering summer months you may well require the benefits of an oxygen infusion system.

Chemical additives that greatly improve water quality are also available and highly regarded among tournament professionals. Additives are beneficial in removing ammonia, detoxifying nitrites, maintaining PH levels as well as promoting the healing of slime coats and damaged scales.

It may come as a surprise, but the type of lid you utilize and interior color of your baitwell also affect your guests’ comfort level. Some species of baitfish seem to live a more stress-free life when they have light in the baitwell. This can be accomplished by adding an LED light, or with the addition of a clear lid. I prefer the natural light that’s provided by a clear lid, as the ambient light acclimates the baits to their natural environment. Another thing you can do to reduce stress levels is paint the interior of your baitwell blue. The soothing color helps to reduce shadows and therefore keeps baits more relaxed.

When standard in-deck livewells are insufficient to maintain a day’s worth of tournament offerings, veterans add an additional above-deck livewell. When choosing an additional livewell make sure you select the appropriate tank for the species you plan on storing. Threadfin herring, menhaden and Spanish sardines are particularly susceptible to die-off from stress and poor water quality. Any type of well without rounded corners and adequate water flow will provide less than ideal conditions for these not-so-hardy offerings.

If you find yourself contemplating why so many of your precious baits are floating belly up, don’t jump the gun and blame the baitfish. It may be that your baits aren’t getting enough clean, cool and oxygenated water. Whatever the case, keeping your offerings fresh, healthy and active will greatly increase your success no matter where you ply your craft. After all, sensational fishing starts with sensational bait. – Steve Dougherty

Torqeedo's Kayak Motor Allows Anglers to Increase Range

2009-10-15T16:30:00.000-04:00

Torqeedo's homepage features details on the Ultralight 402 outboard motor.

Photo Credit: Torqeedo

When it comes to kayak fishing, every advantage counts. That's why professionals such as Chad Hoover, pair their kayak with an outboard designed specifically for fishing. With a total weight of 15 lbs., including the battery, Torqeedo's Ultralight 402 can be easily mounted onto most rigid kayaks. It's IP67-rated and can operate when temporarily submersed.

"I've taken this motor over cypress knees, shale rock and dense vegetation, including lily pads," said Hoover. "I beat this motor up and it just keeps going. It even performs well in shallow water."

"I'd recommend this motor to other anglers," continued Hoover. "It frees my hands up to fish. The Ultralight is also quiet, fast, lightweight, efficient, smooth and easily adjusted. The speed and presentation can be dialed in to match your technique and not the other way around."

Photo Credit: Torqeedo

With propulsive power equivalent to a 1 hp gas outboard, it can reach a max speed between 5.0-6.0 mph for about half an hour, depending on the type of kayak. At slow speed, it provides a range of 12-15 miles. An integrated board computer combines information from the motor, batteries and a built-in GPS, enabling kayakers to monitor battery charge, speed and remaining range at current speed.

"The Torqeedo kayak outboard is a great addition to any beginning, intermediate or advanced paddling angler's arsenal," continued Hoover. "It helps increase your range and the amount of water you can cover, which can ultimately increase your ability to catch fish."

Source: Torqueedo

WakeWorld.com Choses "The Ghost" Malibu Boats 2010 Wakesetter VLX

2009-10-07T15:00:00.000-04:00

The Malibu Boats blog features a story on "The Ghost" Malibu VLX, chosen by WakeWorld.com for their official towboat.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

According to Malibu Boats, “The Ghost” WakeWorld.com Malibu VLX is all white. That and because it haunts the waters of Southern California with big scary customizable wakes in addition to a boatload of new 2010 Malibu innovations.

This year’s WakeWorld.com VLX rocks a weightless fold-down Illusion G3 tower with four new Titan Slide-off Spinner Racks, a new color-matched fiberglass floor with snap-out carpet, new Wakesetter hull graphics, the new MaliView 6.5” Dash System with video and the protection of Malibu Boats Salt Water Package, just to name a few features.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

The WakeWorld.com boat appears to be floating even in tow thanks to the loaded bright white Tandem Axle Salt Water Trailer built by Boatmate.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

WakeWorld.com Discussion, one of the most trafficked rider discussion boards online, was the first forum to publish photos of the site’s new wakeboard boat. That should be expected, but the photos were posted before Williams had even seen his new boat. The images were posted by a WakeWorld.com subscriber. The VLX happened to make a few stops at other Malibu Boats Dealerships before arriving in So Cal. Photos were snapped, posted and the rave reviews began.

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

When Williams finally saw his new Wakesetter VLX in person this is how he reacted. “I was blown away before the cover even came off!” Williams explained, “Not only did the Boatmate trailer look unbelievable, but the hull has some great new angles that look really sharp.” Williams went on, “Of course, once the cover came off and the tower went up, I was even more impressed.”

Photo Credit: Malibu Boats

This is the 5th time in the last five years WakeWorld.com has chosen the Malibu Boats Wakesetter VLX as the site’s official wakeboard boat. And according to Dave Williams, WakeWorld.com’s Owner/Editor, this is why he continues to make Malibu Boats his choice. “Probably the biggest reason why I think this [Malibu Wakesetter VLX] is the best boat out there is the fact that you can flip a few switches or engage a Rider Preset and you've got a wake that's got a great shape and is more than big enough for 90% of the riders out there. The VLX is good to go right out of the box!”

Source: Malibu Boats

IBEX 2009 A ‘Can’t Miss’ Event

2009-09-30T13:29:00.001-04:00

Your presence at the International Boatbuilders' Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) is more important than ever. As you know, the boating industry has experienced rapid and significant changes in the past year. Now is not the time for sitting still. In just three efficient days at IBEX, you can:

Connect with your current suppliers and discover new ones
Negotiate new pricing
Confirm commitments
Gather competitive information that might help your company gain an advantage
Increase your market share

Now is the time for action and planning. Make your travel plans today.

Discover how you can do more with less at IBEX 2009 – October 12-14 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Register today at www.ibexshow.com and let’s make progress happen!
In addition to being one of the best venues for conducting business with manufacturers, gaining exposure to key industry developments, IBEX 2009 will offer three free seminars designed specifically for marine dealers as part of its new IBEX Dealer Development Days pavilion. IBEX 2009 is being held October 12 – 14 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

“Dealer-oriented seminars are a logical extension of our existing education platform and they enhance the new IBEX Dealer Development Days pavilion,” said Carl Cramer, show co-director and Professional BoatBuilder magazine publisher. “Offering timely, relevant, and useful information to all attendees is a must as we look to innovate, create new business opportunities and understand how to best maneuver the current economy.”

Topics for the free dealer seminars cover a variety of important issues and are presented by leading marine industry experts. A free seminar will be offered each day of the show, running October 12 – 14, including:

Dealer Economics: How to Survive, is presented by Michel Weisz with Berger Singerman, a Florida based business law firm that serves a diverse client base. Being held Monday, October 12, it will address the changing economics of the marine dealership. Weisz will offer insight and guidance on survival in today’s marketplace, including debt conversion, long term workouts, downsizing, and reorganization.

Stop Scaring Your Banker: What You Need to Know, is presented by Bill Thompson with the Cardinal Points Network on Tuesday, October 13. Dealers will learn how to appeal to commercial floorplan lending partners, strategies for finding the right lender, skills for communicating with commercial bankers, as well as how to build a comprehensive and effective floorplan loan request package. Tips on how to achieve commercial lending needs and employing business partner ABCs (Accountants, Bankers, and Legal Counsel) will also be covered.

Keep Your Dealership a Top-Notch Performer, Volvo Penta and Boating Industry magazine team up to offer a theoretical and real-life review of dealership best practices on Wednesday, October 14. Practical examples of company enhancements, ranging from training/education to product and market planning will be covered. Dealers will learn from case studies on dealership success to gain ideas on growing their individual businesses. This seminar also covers corporate goal setting; planning for dealership as well as market, succession, and financial planning; and a variety of product strategies and tactical activities (service department training, marketing events, inventory management). Speakers for this session are Susan Bonivich and Phil Gaynor (Volvo Penta) and Matt Gruhn (Boating Industry magazine).

To date, three leading boat builders have signed up to participate in the IBEX 2009 Dealer Development Days, the new and innovative boat building stimulus program to assist boat manufacturers and dealers in conducting crucial in-person business at a minimal cost. Discount hotel rooms are being offered to all marine dealers interested in participating.

Boat manufacturers and dealers interested in learning more about the free seminars should contact Tina Sanderson at 802–879–8324 or Anne Dunbar at 716–662–4708.

IBEX 2009 offers a complete seminar and conference series, as well as free workshops. The show will host more than 500 exhibitors, provides special pavilion areas, and hosts a special outdoor demonstration space where industry professionals can utilize the latest products in real-world application situations. Complete information on IBEX 2009, including registration, is available on www.ibexshow.com.

IBEX 2009 will take place at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The show is open Monday, October 12, from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (with a special opening night presentation featuring Al & Laura Ries at 6:30 p.m.); Tuesday, October 13, from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; and, Wednesday, October 14, from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

IBEX is owned and produced by Professional BoatBuilder magazine and National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and is the largest boating industry gathering of 2009. For boat builders, marine industry dealers, designers, repairers, surveyors, and boatyard/marine operators, IBEX is the single source for the latest boatbuilding technologies, tools, and materials.

Source: www.ibexshow.com.