Used Boat Listings, Boat News & Boat Buying Guide Blog

2001 Sport Bridge 330 - Used Boat

2010-03-21T12:10:00.000-07:00

2001 Sport Bridge 330 - Used Boat

Excellent Condition. Full electronics pkg. Heat/AC, Stand up shower, beautifull cherry interior. Ready to launch.

... more

1982 Aft Cabin 40 - Used Boat

2010-03-21T12:09:00.000-07:00

1982 Aft Cabin 40 - Used Boat

Boat can stay at current dock if buyer joins yacht club All new canvas and Bimini top, striping and lettering "Just Another Day in Paradise" Sleeps 8 - aft cabin queen bed, V-berth, convertible dinette and two recliners in salon Two full heads and full stall showers U-shaped galley: 3 burner electri... more

1988 Convertible 34 - Used Boat

2010-03-21T12:08:00.000-07:00

1988 Convertible 34 - Used Boat

Onan 6 KW generator w/250 Hrs. AC, and Heat, New Fiberglass mufflers,

hoses belts, pump impellers, New Lectra San, and Raritan Head, Weblon white

canvas, with cockpit enclosure, new in 2001, Fortress anchor, Good Windlass,

Navman 5600 color GPS, new in 2003, Icom VHF, new in 2004. Ray Jeff color

... more

1985 BAJA CUDDY CABIN - Used Boat

2010-03-06T10:16:00.001-07:00

1985 BAJA CUDDY CABIN - Used Boat

CHECK OUT THIS SUPER FAST
1978 BAJA CUDDY CABIN
SKI/FISHING BOAT!!!

350 Big Block 400 Chevy runs great!! 50 - 55 MPH!!!

NEW INTERIOR!!!

COMES WITH TRAILER!!!

... more

1994 Sundancer 270 - Used Boat

2010-03-06T10:15:00.001-07:00

1994 Sundancer 270 - Used Boat

!!!HYPNAUTICAL!!! This Sundancer 270 has too many extras to name! It has a 454 Mercruiser Inboard and a Bravo 1 Outboard with 650 hours. Also, a Swim Deck with a Ladder, Air Conditioning, a GPS System, Electric Winch, Fish Finder, an Electric and Alcohol Stove, a Refrigerator and Freezer. The Ba... more

1998 RINKER 266/Fiesta Vee with Eagle Trailer. - Used Boat

2010-03-06T10:13:00.001-07:00

1998 RINKER 266/Fiesta Vee with Eagle Trailer. - Used Boat

One owner, stored indoor all year round, hour meter installed when bought new. Around 350 hours, Maintenance records kept up to date. 250hp mercruiser with bravo 3 drive, trim tabs, remote spot/flood light, Canopy cover and cockpit cover, Sleeps 4, Has microwave, single burner stove, fridge, hot wat... more

2005 REGAL - Used Boat

2009-01-31T23:12:00.000-07:00

2005 REGAL - Used Boat

For More Info : 2005 REGAL - Used Boat
Cumming, Georgia

REGAL CRUISER 3560 AT IT'S BEST...UNMISTAKABLE REPUTATION!!!!

HULL DESIGN combines HIGHEST PERFORMANCE with the maximum EFFICIENCY for a 35 Ft. YATCH

FEATURES INCLUDE:

RAYMAIRINE CLOSED RADAR

AUTO TABLS

RUDDER INDICATOR

TWIN 8.1 VOLVO INBOARD ENGINES with WARRANTY until 2011

FIBERGLASS HULL

VHF RADIO

DEPTH FISH FINDER

COMPASS

SHORE POWER

BIMINI TOP

CAMPER CANVAS

COCKPIT FEATURES

THREE FLATSCREEN TV'S

12 VOLT ACCESSORY PLUG

ADJUSTABLE DOUBLE WIDE ROT CAST HELM SEAT

BINNACLE SHIFT/THROTTLE CONTROLS

COCKPIT FORWARD SEATING

COURTESY LIGHTING

ENGINE ROOM DAY ACCESS HATCH

DASH CIRCUIT BREAKERS

FORWARD LIFTING FIBERGLASS ENGINE HATCH

FULL ENGINE MONITORING INSTRUMENTATION

CORIAN BAR

NON GLARE DASH

SIDE/AFT CURTAIN ZIPPERED DOOR

REFRIGERATOR with ICE MAKER

FORWARD STATEROOM

120 VOLT GFIC PROTECTED OUTLET

ACCENT READING LIGHTS

CEDAR LINED HANGING LOCKER

OVERHEAD LIGHTING

PRIVACY BULKHEAD ENTRY DOOR

QUEEN BERTH

GALLEY FEATURES

120 VOLT GFIC PROTECTED OUTLET

CORIAN COUNTERTOPS

ALL APPLIANCES

MAIN SALON and MID-STATEROOM.

THE FUNCTIONALITY and SOCIAL ASPECTS of COCKPIT FOWARD SEATING and the warm and deeply COMFORTABLE INTERIOR make this the "ONE".

EXCELLENT GENE POOL...REGAL "BEST IN CLASS"....SIMPLY REMARKABLE

It say read 2005 Regal 3560 not Volvo those are the engines. It also needs to read that it is powered by twin 8.1 inboard Volvo engines that have a warranty till 2011. It should also read as features rudder indicator, auto tabs, cockpit refrigerator icemaker, 3 flat screen TV’s, C-80 Raymairine closed radar.

2005 COBALT - Used Boat

2009-01-31T23:11:00.001-07:00

2005 COBALT - Used Boat

For More Info : 2005 COBALT - Used Boat
London, Kentucky

FANTASTIC 2005 COBALT 262

496 HIGH OUTPUT

425 HP MERCRUISER

STAINLESS STEEL SKI TOWER***$9,000.00 UPGRADE OPTION

152 HOURS on ENGINE

BEAUTIFUL TOP OF LINE runabout that is always GARAGE kept in the WINTER, and is kept in a COVERED SLIP on a lift in the summer.

PERFECT for all your NEEDS.....

1997 Hydrosport - Used Boat

2008-11-17T20:48:00.001-07:00

1997 Hydrosport - Used Boat

For More Info : 1997 Hydrosport - Used Boat
Decatur, Illinois

1997 17.5 FOOT HYDROSPORT 175SE POWERBOAT with 1996 Johnson 150HP V-6 Oil Injected, Stainless Steel Prop, with Whale Tail. Boat and Motor bought NEW at same time. Boat does have a FIBERGLASS HULL hand done *tournament style*. Gray carpet inside, SEAT COVERS, removable table size Umbrella holder that covers Bucket Seats, also has two Bass Seats, two Butt Seats with side-by-side live wells in rear deck, ROD locker, plus optional carpeted dog ramp can be installed on back deck! Many extras include LIFE JACKETS, FIRST AID KIT, FIRE EXTINGUISHER, OAR handheld SPOTLIGHT, net ROD TIE DOWNS and ANCHOR + REEL BOAT COVER and TRAVEL COVER. At NEW it was $22,000.00 SHOW ROOM BOAT. ** EXCELLENT MOTOR HAS NEVER FAILED** runs fast at 60 mph plus starts quick. Would be a GREAT tournament boat….comes out of the water f a s t. Matching trailer complete with CHROME wheels and boat buckles to secure and fasten. Motor has less than 50 hrs on it since purchased in 2003. STABLE RIDE AT ALL SPEEDS!!!!

Thunderbird - Used Boat

2008-11-17T20:47:00.001-07:00

Thunderbird - Used Boat

For More Info : Thunderbird - Used Boat
Marceline, Missouri

Attention Water Skiers

Thunderbird Inboard/Outboard Ski Boat!!!

Stocked Condition

Completely Reupholstered

New Stereo System

New Restoration, deck boards, new plywood, sealed

New Carpet

Always Garaged

Gold & White Color

New Stainless Steel Prop

Lower Unit Perfect

Comes with Boat Trailer

Engine is Perfect

Turn Key Ready for Fun

Call Now!!!!

2002 Smokercraft - Used Boat

2008-11-17T20:46:00.000-07:00

2002 Smokercraft - Used Boat

For More Info : 2002 Smokercraft - Used Boat
South Cle Elum, Washington

A GREAT POWERBOAT FOR YOU!! 2002 SMOKERCRAFT 17 OSPREY DLX IN EXCELLENT CONDITION!!

The Hull material is Fiberglass and it has a two-stroke 60 HP Engine, and a 6 HP Trolling Motor. It is 17-foot in length has two covers, an E-Z Load Trailer, Bimini Top, Fish Finder, CB Radio, Life Preservers and an open head.

MUST SEE TO APPRECIATE!!

Also Available:

A 31' 2007 Fleetwood Terra LX31 Coach with only 10,000 Miles!!!! Listing ID #98882

2000 Cougar MTR 23 - Used Boat

2008-11-17T20:44:00.000-07:00

2000 2000 Cougar MTR 23 - Used Boat

For More Info : 2000 2000 Cougar MTR 23 - Used Boat
The Dalles, Oregon

***Asset Liquidation Forces Sale- $6,000 Under Nada to Sell Now!!***

Look at this beautiful Cougar tunnel hull powered by a 500hp HP500EFI !!

This classic Cougar hot boat has always been maintained and garaged when not in use!

Boat Specifications:

Bravo 1 DRIVE, Imco Dual Ram Steering, AM/FM/CD/SATTELITE 700 WATT STEREO, GPS Speedo,Cougar Trailer, Bimini Top. TWO COVERS, and BULLET PROOF 502 CHEVY BUILT BY MERCURY RACING!!

This Boat is all Stock as delivered by Cougar and will run 85 M.P.H.!!!

Also Available is a 2006 Fleetwood Expedition Motor Home Click Here!

Owner has this Pristine Boat Priced for IMMEDIATE SALE!!! Hurry while this one lasts!!!

2000 Cougar MTR 23 - Used Boat

2008-09-30T13:47:00.000-06:00

2000 2000 Cougar MTR 23 - Used Boat

For More Info : 2000 2000 Cougar MTR 23 - Used Boat
The Dalles, Oregon

***Asset Liquidation Forces Sale- $6,000 Under Nada to Sell Now!!***

Look at this beautiful Cougar tunnel hull powered by a 500hp HP500EFI !!

This classic Cougar hot boat has always been maintained and garaged when not in use!

Boat Specifications:

Bravo 1 DRIVE, Imco Dual Ram Steering, AM/FM/CD/SATTELITE 700 WATT STEREO, GPS Speedo,Cougar Trailer, Bimini Top. TWO COVERS, and BULLET PROOF 502 CHEVY BUILT BY MERCURY RACING!!

This Boat is all Stock as delivered by Cougar and will run 85 M.P.H.!!!

Also Available is a 2006 Fleetwood Expedition Motor Home Click Here!

Owner has this Pristine Boat Priced for IMMEDIATE SALE!!! Hurry while this one lasts!!!

2002 Smokercraft - Used Boat

2008-09-30T13:45:00.000-06:00

2002 Smokercraft - Used Boat

For More Info : 2002 Smokercraft - Used Boat
South Cle Elum, Washington

A GREAT POWERBOAT FOR YOU!! 2002 SMOKERCRAFT 17 OSPREY DLX IN EXCELLENT CONDITION!!

MUST SEE TO APPRECIATE!!

Also Available:

A 31' 2007 Fleetwood Terra LX31 Coach with only 10,000 Miles!!!! Listing ID #98882

Click HERE to see our FLEETWOOD!!

Click HERE to see More Pictures!!

2001 Fisher Avenger - Used Boat

2008-07-09T11:47:00.000-06:00

2001 Fisher Avenger - Used Boat

For More Info : 2001 Fisher Avenger - Used Boat
Redding, California

Beautiful 2001 Fisher Avenger aluminum fishing boat w/50hp Mercury!!!

- $13100 (Redding)

BRING YOUR FISHING POLES & FRIENDS!!

Look at this 2001 Fisher aluminum fishing boat that is in Excellent Shape, under 30 hr's on Mercury 50hp 4stroke outboard motor!!

Motorguide xp 5000 trolling motor, 3 comfortable pedestal seats, 5 generously sized compartments, 3 lockable compartments, lowrance X-38 fish finder, bimini top, 3 livewells, coordinating fisher single axle trailer, all owners manuals, 2 brand new downriggers will be included.

This boat is in excelent shape. Call Lynn with questions or to view the boat!!!

2007 Lightning Custom Boats - Used Boat

2008-07-02T15:13:00.000-06:00

2007 Lightning Custom Boats - Used Boat

For More Info : 2007 Lightning Custom Boats - Used Boat
Sandpoint, Idaho

***Asset Liquidation Forces Sale***

Look at this MINT CONDITION 26' Lightning Custom Boat with ONLY 20 hours on it!!! It has been in a heated garage and perfectly maintained since new!!!

It is Stern Driven and has a over $20,000 in upgrades!! The Motor is a 496 HO with WHIPPLE SUPERCHARGER producing nealy 600 Horsepower!!! This boat can nearly fly across the water at speeds reaching 80 MPH plus!!!

It has a Open Bow, Mid Cabin and all the luxuries you can find on a water sport craft!!!

Options Include:-Thru Hull Exhaust and tips
4 Blade Stainless Prop
- Livorsi II Marine Gauges
Livorsi Offshore Shifter
-Custom Rage Steering Wheel
Carling Switch Panel
Custom Bimini Top
-- Boat Storage Cover
10 Billet Cupholders
-Custom offshore Upholstery
4 Pop up Cleats
-Custom Billet Hardware
Glove Box
- Premium Pioneer CD System with 12 speakers
-Tilt Steering
Ski Tow
Power Port
-Billet Swim Steps
Auto Bilge
Blower
-Electric Hatch
Interior Lighting
-Extreme Trailer
and MUCH MUCH MORE!!!

Owner Paid over $100,000 for this Gem and has it priced now to sell IMMEDIATELY!!! Hurry on this one while it lasts!!!

Also available is Custom Ordered 2007 40' Holiday Rambler Class A Diesel Coach

1997 PROLINE - Used Boat

2008-07-02T15:12:00.000-06:00

1997 PROLINE...THIS HAS BEEN COMPLETELY GONE OVER...NEW EVERYTHING - Used Boat

For More Info : 1997 PROLINE...THIS HAS BEEN COMPLETELY GONE OVER...NEW EVERYTHING - Used Boat
Trenton, New Jersey

BELOW NADA...

PRICE REDUCED $3,000.00 for QUICK SALE!!!

AN EXCELLENT 21 FOOT 1997 PROLINE FISHING BOAT...NEW EVERYTHING...NEW BIMINI, COCKPIT COVER, ANCHOR AND LINE, COASTGUARD PACKAGE, BATTERIES, RADIO AND ANTENNA, TIRES, RECONDITIONED TILT TRAILER...

Includes a FIBERGLASS Hull and a V6 10 Gas Engine with 150 Hours, a Fuel Capacity of 150 Gallons, a Cruise Speed of 50, and a Max Speed of 60.

Holds up to SIX People and features Electronics/Navigation Gear, VHF/Radio, Loran/GPS System, Bait Well, Live Well, a Trailer with an Electric Wench, a Boat Cover, Bimini Top, CD STEREO SYSTEM, a Wash Down Bunk, and New Cushions. Cabin sleeps TWO People and has an Enclosed Head...

A WISE INVESTMENT IN YOUR FAMILIES HEALTH AS WELL AS YOUR POCKETBOOK...

2001 Fisher Avenger - Used Boat

2008-07-02T15:10:00.000-06:00

2001 Fisher Avenger - Used Boat

For More Info : 2001 Fisher Avenger - Used Boat
Redding, California

Beautiful 2001 Fisher Avenger aluminum fishing boat w/50hp Mercury!!!

- $13100 (Redding)

BRING YOUR FISHING POLES & FRIENDS!!

Look at this 2001 Fisher aluminum fishing boat that is in Excellent Shape, under 30 hr's on Mercury 50hp 4stroke outboard motor!!

This boat is in excelent shape. Call Lynn with questions or to view the boat!!!

1999 Edgewater - Used Boat

2008-06-24T00:43:00.001-06:00

1999 Edgewater - Used Boat

For More Info : 1999 Edgewater - Used Boat
Saint Cloud, Florida

Green Hull, gold canvas T-Top, white rails and trim.

Dual 150 HP Yamaha outboards w/ss props-professionally maintained.

Stored indoors summer and winter in boat valet.

Garmin GPSMap, Raytheon 24 mile radar, Raytheon L750 fish finder, Horizon Intrepid VHF radio w/remote mic w/8' Shakespeare antenna, trim tabs, transom bait well and insulated fish box.

Deck and spreader lights, windlass w/200 ft rode, 150 gal fuel tank, outriggers, portapotty in console, 2 new batteries late 2006, 96 and 120 qt coolers double as seats or use included deck chairs for cruising.

Caulkins 8516 GVWR trailer plus tie downs, and load distributing hitch included. 7 adult Type 1 pfds, throwable, 4 child pfds.

Tackle boxes with lures sinkers and hardware, 6 jigging rods/reels 4 spinnig rods/reels and 2 wire trolling rigs.

Dock lines, fenders, legal and expired flares in a dry box.

Gibson - Used Boat

2008-06-24T00:42:00.001-06:00

Gibson - Used Boat

For More Info : Gibson - Used Boat
Syracuse, New York

Look at this Houseboat that has been well maintained and is ready to go!! This Boat sleeps 6 Comfortably and has approx. 600 hours on Twin 220 Crusader Inboards!! In the Aft berth there is a Couch that converts to sleep 2 and bench booth seating that also converts into a bed!! In the Main salon there is a Sofa Sleeper that makes into a Queen Size bed! Beneath the Main Salon is a small berth that also sleeps 2 people!! For Entertainment there is a TV, AM/Fm CD Player with speakers throughout, Dual UHF Radio with intercom, Remote Stereo controls on Flybridge!! Electronics Include: Depth/Fish finders and Marine Radio!!

In the Galley there is Refrigerator/Freezer, Stovetop and Oven, Microwave, Coffee Maker, Stainless Steel Sink, and Plenty of storage!! This Boat has been recently upgraded with new carpeting and new fabric on all furniture!! Owner has this Boat priced for IMMEDIATE SALE!!! Hurry on this one while it lasts!!!

2007 Lightning Custom Boats - Used Boat

2008-06-24T00:41:00.002-06:00

2007 Lightning Custom Boats - Used Boat

For More Info : 2007 Lightning Custom Boats - Used Boat
Sandpoint, Idaho

***Asset Liquidation Forces Sale***

Look at this MINT CONDITION 26' Lightning Custom Boat with ONLY 20 hours on it!!! It has been in a heated garage and perfectly maintained since new!!!

It has a Open Bow, Mid Cabin and all the luxuries you can find on a water sport craft!!!

Owner Paid over $100,000 for this Gem and has it priced now to sell IMMEDIATELY!!! Hurry on this one while it lasts!!!

Also available is Custom Ordered 2007 40' Holiday Rambler Class A Diesel Coach CLICK HERE TO VIEW

1997 PROLINE - Used Boat

2008-06-24T00:40:00.000-06:00

Includes a FIBERGLASS Hull and a V6 10 Gas Engine with 150 Hours, a Fuel Capacity of 150 Gallons, a Cruise Speed of 50, and a Max Speed of 60.

A WISE INVESTMENT IN YOUR FAMILIES HEALTH AS WELL AS YOUR POCKETBOOK...

2001 Fisher Avenger - Used Boat

2008-06-24T00:39:00.001-06:00

2001 Fisher Avenger - Used Boat

For More Info : 2001 Fisher Avenger - Used Boat
Redding, California

Beautiful 2001 Fisher Avenger aluminum fishing boat w/50hp Mercury!!!

- $13100 (Redding)

BRING YOUR FISHING POLES & FRIENDS!!

Look at this 2001 Fisher aluminum fishing boat that is in Excellent Shape, under 30 hr's on Mercury 50hp 4stroke outboard motor!!

This boat is in excelent shape. Call Lynn with questions or to view the boat!!!

1995 Nordic - Used Boat

2008-02-21T15:34:00.001-07:00

1995 Nordic - Used Boat

For More Info : 1995 Nordic - Used Boat
Lake George, New York

AN EXCELLENT 23 FOOT 1995 NORDIC SPRINT POWERBOAT!!! This boat includes a Fiberglass Hull, a Fiberglass Keel, a Mercruiser 7.4L Gas Engine with 208 Hours, and a Max Speed of 70. Holds up to 10 People and features a Depth Finder, a Swim Platform, a Trailer, Bimini Top, a Cockpit and Bow, and an AM/FM/CD STEREO SYSTEM. "This is a must see"

!!!FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR CREDIT APPROVED BUYERS!!!

2005 Gekko - Used Boat

2008-02-21T15:33:00.001-07:00

2005 Gekko - Used Boat

For More Info : 2005 Gekko - Used Boat
Lake George, New York

A BRAND NEW 22 FOOT 2005 GEKKO GTK22 POWERBOAT! "BLOW OUT PRICING" THIS BEAUTIFUL "SPORTY" SLEEK RED BOAT includes a Fiberglass Hull, a Fiberglass Keel, a PCM 375HP Engine with 5 Hours and a Max Speed of 55. Holds up to 7 People and features a Depth Finder, a Matching Trailer, a Heater, a Bow Cover, Mag Wheels, a Copper Cockpit Cover, Cruise Control, and a Swim Platform. "THIS IS A MUST SEE"

!!!FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR APPROVED CREDIT BUYERS!!!

2003 Alumacraft - Used Boat

2008-02-21T15:31:00.002-07:00

2003 Alumacraft - Used Boat

For More Info : 2003 Alumacraft - Used Boat
Crookston, Minnesota

AN EXCELLENT 18 FOOT 2003 ALUMACRAFT TROPHY FISHING BOAT FOR YOU!!! This boat includes an Aluminum Hull, an Outboard 4 Stroke Johnson Fuel Injected Engine with 30 Hours, 140 Horsepower, and a Max Speed of 40. Holds up to 4 People and features a Marine VHF/Radio, a Bait Well, Front and Rear Live Wells, a Depth Finder, On Board Charging System, Brand New Lawrence Monitor, THREE Swivel Seats, a Full Stand Up Canopy, Front Bow Pads, a Trailer, and an AM/FM/CD STEREO SYSTEM.

!!!THIS IS A MUST SEE!!!

***FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR CREDIT APPROVED BUYERS***

1999 Edgewater - Used Boat

2008-02-21T15:31:00.001-07:00

1999 Edgewater - Used Boat

For More Info : 1999 Edgewater - Used Boat
Saint Cloud, Florida

Green Hull, gold canvas T-Top, white rails and trim.

Dual 150 HP Yamaha outboards w/ss props-professionally maintained.

Stored indoors summer and winter in boat valet.

Garmin GPSMap, Raytheon 24 mile radar, Raytheon L750 fish finder, Horizon Intrepid VHF radio w/remote mic w/8' Shakespeare antenna, trim tabs, transom bait well and insulated fish box.

Caulkins 8516 GVWR trailer plus tie downs, and load distributing hitch included. 7 adult Type 1 pfds, throwable, 4 child pfds.

Tackle boxes with lures sinkers and hardware, 6 jigging rods/reels 4 spinnig rods/reels and 2 wire trolling rigs.

Dock lines, fenders, legal and expired flares in a dry box.

(2) 1A:10BC fire extinguishers.
A great fishing boat for 4. Legally holds 11.

Gibson - Used Boat

2008-02-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

2007 Lightning Custom Boats - Used Boat

2008-02-21T15:29:00.000-07:00

2007 Lightning Custom Boats - Used Boat

For More Info : 2007 Lightning Custom Boats - Used Boat
Sandpoint, Idaho

***Asset Liquidation Forces Sale***

Look at this MINT CONDITION 26' Lightning Custom Boat with ONLY 20 hours on it!!! It has been in a heated garage and perfectly maintained since new!!!

It has a Open Bow, Mid Cabin and all the luxuries you can find on a water sport craft!!!

Owner Paid over $100,000 for this Gem and has it priced now to sell IMMEDIATELY!!! Hurry on this one while it lasts!!!

Also available is Custom Ordered 2007 40' Holiday Rambler Class A Diesel Coach CLICK HERE TO VIEW

Financing Available W.A.C.

1999 Bayliner - Used Boat

2008-01-02T17:28:00.000-07:00

1999 Bayliner - Used Boat

For More Info : 1999 Bayliner - Used Boat
Loveland, Colorado

AN EXCELLENT 22 FOOT 1999 BAYLINER TROPHY BOAT(USED LESS THAN 30 HOURS) FOR YOU!!! This boat includes a Fiberglass Hull, UP-GRADED Blue Water Mercury 175 Outboard Gas Engines with LESS THAN 30 Hours, 8 HORSE POWER HONDA Trolling motor, MARINE RADIO, FISH FINDER, DEPTH FINDER, Fuel Capacity of 85 Gallons, trm a Cruise Speed of 38 MPH, and a Max Speed of 42 MPH. Features include Outriggers, a Swim Step, a Bait Well, TWO Live Wells, a Trailer, a Boat Cover, Bimini Top, and a STEREO SYSTEM. Cabin sleeps 4 People and includes an Enclosed Head. CONTACT OWNER NOW!!! FINANCING IS AVAILABLE!!

2003 Bayliner - Used Boat

2008-01-02T17:27:00.000-07:00

2003 Bayliner - Used Boat

For More Info : 2003 Bayliner - Used Boat
Ravena, New York

A GREAT 31.6 FOOT 2003 BAYLINER POWERBOAT!!! - This Boat is all Fiberglass with with an 11 foot Beam, Twin 5.7L Mercruiser Bravo 11 Stern Drive Engines with 80 Hours, 250 Horsepower Each, a Fuel Capacity of 148 Gallons, a Cruise Speed of 28, and a Max Speed of 50.

Holds up to 8 People and features a VHF/Radio, GPS model 2010C System, a Swim Step, Radar, a Spotlight,a Windlass,a Compass, and snap Carpets, Front and Side Curtains, a Fish Finder, Bimini Top, and a CD STEREO SYSTEM.

Cabin sleeps 6 People and includes AC/Heat, a Refrigerator, Freezer, a Stove, a Shower, an Enclosed Head, and a 30-Gallon Fresh Water Tank. Digital Depth Indicator, Trim Tabs, Mercathode System, and Halon System in Engine Compartment.

The Best way to Contact is By Email

1999 Edgewater - Used Boat

2007-10-25T13:36:00.000-06:00

1999 Edgewater - Used Boat

For More Info : 1999 Edgewater - Used Boat
Saint Cloud, Florida

Green Hull, gold canvas T-Top, white rails and trim.

Dual 150 HP Yamaha outboards w/ss props-professionally maintained.

Stored indoors summer and winter in boat valet.

Garmin GPSMap, Raytheon 24 mile radar, Raytheon L750 fish finder, Horizon Intrepid VHF radio w/remote mic w/8' Shakespeare antenna, trim tabs, transom bait well and insulated fish box.

Caulkins 8516 GVWR trailer plus tie downs, and load distributing hitch included. 7 adult Type 1 pfds, throwable, 4 child pfds.

Tackle boxes with lures sinkers and hardware, 6 jigging rods/reels 4 spinnig rods/reels and 2 wire trolling rigs.

Dock lines, fenders, legal and expired flares in a dry box.

(2) 1A:10BC fire extinguishers. A great fishing boat for 4. Legally holds 11.

2003 Alumacraft - Used Boat

2007-10-25T13:35:00.000-06:00

2003 Alumacraft - Used Boat

For More Info : 2003 Alumacraft - Used Boat
Crookston, Minnesota

!!!THIS IS A MUST SEE!!!

***FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR CREDIT APPROVED BUYERS***

2005 Gekko - Used Boat

2007-10-25T13:34:00.000-06:00

2005 Gekko - Used Boat

For More Info : 2005 Gekko - Used Boat
Lake George, New York

A BRAND NEW 22 FOOT 2005 GEKKO GTK22 POWERBOAT! "BLOW OUT PRICING" THIS BEAUTIFUL "SPORTY" SLEEK RED BOAT includes a Fiberglass Hull, a Fiberglass Keel, a PCM 375HP Engine with 5 Hours and a Max Speed of 55. Holds up to 7 People and features a Depth Finder, a Matching Trailer, a Heater, a Bow Cover, Mag Wheels, a Copper Cockpit Cover, Cruise Control, and a Swim Platform. "THIS IS A MUST SEE" !!!FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR APPROVED CREDIT BUYERS!!!

1995 Nordic - Used Boat

2007-10-25T13:33:00.000-06:00

1995 Nordic - Used Boat

For More Info : 1995 Nordic - Used Boat
Lake George, New York

AN EXCELLENT 23 FOOT 1995 NORDIC SPRINT POWERBOAT!!! This boat includes a Fiberglass Hull, a Fiberglass Keel, a Mercruiser 7.4L Gas Engine with 208 Hours, and a Max Speed of 70. Holds up to 10 People and features a Depth Finder, a Swim Platform, a Trailer, Bimini Top, a Cockpit and Bow, and an AM/FM/CD STEREO SYSTEM. "This is a must see" !!!FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR CREDIT APPROVED BUYERS!!!

2006 Moomba - Used Boat

2007-10-25T13:31:00.000-06:00

2006 Moomba - Used Boat

For More Info : 2006 Moomba - Used Boat
Valley Springs, California

A GREAT 22 FOOT 2006 MOOMBA MOBIUS POWERBOAT!!! FEATURES: a Fiberglass Hull, a Chevy 350 Inboard/Outboard Gas Engine with 80 Hours, a Fuel Capacity of 40 Gallons, and a Max Speed of 60mph. Holds up to 15 People and features Docking Lights, a Swim Platform, a Trailer, Boat Cover, Bimini Top, Perfect Pass, an AM/FM/CD STEREO SYSTEM with SATELLITE with a Remote from the Drivers Seat, a Tower Ski Rack, Three Ballis Tanks, an Open Head, and a Fresh Water Tank.

!!!A MUST SEE!!!

***FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FRO CREDIT APPROVED BUYERS***

1999 Bayliner - Used Boat

2007-10-25T13:28:00.002-06:00

2003 Bayliner - Used Boat

2007-10-25T13:28:00.001-06:00

The Best way to Contact is By Email

2005 Sun Tracker - Used Boat

2007-10-25T13:27:00.002-06:00

2005 Sun Tracker - Used Boat

For More Info : 2005 Sun Tracker - Used Boat
Clarksville, Tennessee

TAKE A LOOK AT THIS EXCELLENT 27 FOOT 2005 SUN TRACKER PARTY BARGE POWERBOAT!!! This boat includes an Aluminum Hull, a 2006 Mercury 4 Stroke Outboard Gas Engine with 30 Hours, 115 Horsepower, and a Fuel Capacity of 30 Gallons. Holds up to 15 People and features a Depth Finder, a Swim Step, a Trailer, Boat Cover, Bimini Top, and a STEREO SYSTEM. This includes a Fresh Water Tank. This Excellant find also comes with a transferable warranty!!! Also featured on this boat are a Pop up changing room, Aqua dog, all safety equiptment comes with sale!! ***WILL DELIVER***

2003 Rinker - Used Boat

2007-10-25T13:27:00.001-06:00

2003 Rinker - Used Boat

For More Info : 2003 Rinker - Used Boat
Cocoa, Florida

Take A Long Look At This 2003 Rinker Fiesta Vee 27 Foot FIBERGLASS Hull Powerboat with 260 Total HP.

MerCruiser Gas Engine, fuel capacity of 75,Cruising Speed of 35 with Max Speed of 45.

The accessories included are a Trailer, a TV, VCR, DVD and a Stereo System.

The Cabin comfortably will sleep as many as 7 people, it has Air Conditioning, a Shower, ENCLOSED Head and a 30 gallon Fresh Water Tank.

Sport FEATURES include: a Swim Step.

FINANCING AVAILABLE!

1997 Regal Marine - Used Boat

2007-10-25T13:26:00.001-06:00

1997 Regal Marine - Used Boat

For More Info : 1997 Regal Marine - Used Boat
Ocoee, Florida

PRICE JUST REDUCED - MUST SELL!! TAKE A LOOK AT THIS GREAT 24 FOOT 1997 REGAL MARINE COMMODORE 242 POWERBOAT!!! This boat includes a Fiberglass Hull and a Single Engine. Features include an Marine Radio, a Lorrance Fish Finder, TV, AM/FM/CD STEREO SYSTEM, and kept under roof on a Trailer. Cabin includes Air Conditioning, a Refrigerator, a Shower, and an Enclosed Head. 30 amp electrical system, dual batteries, Brand new engine with less than 2 HOURS!!! This fantastic find has a single burner stove. Also this unit has a Canvas Cockpit Top and Camper Canvas. On the foredeck there a sunbathing mat with canvas covers. Also all safety equitment and TWO anchors. Also this boat comes with a Ramblin two axel Galvanized Trailer!!!!

2006 Suntracker - Used Boat

2007-09-19T10:42:00.001-06:00

2006 Suntracker - Used Boat

For More Info : 2006 Suntracker - Used Boat
Springfield, Illinois

A 2006 Suntracker, 21 Foot, Party Deck Powerboat that can carry up to 10 passengers, and it has a MerCruiser 4.3L 190hp V6, In/Out Board , fuel capacity of 41 gallons, a cruise speed of 45. Fully equipped for FISHING with in floor storage for fishing poles, skis or wakeboard etc. An all-welded two piece hull made of Marine Alloy. The accessories include a Trailer, a Boat Cover, Bimini Top and a premium Stereo System iPod ready CD/AM/FM Radio. The Sport Features are a rear swim platform with ladder and a Pop-up changing room and area to lay and tan. This boat also features a multi-purpose helm with sink, trash receptacle and underneath storage!!! EXCELLENT CONDITION!! This FANTASTIC find is great for fishing or water sports. This unit also has a Warranty until 2012. This boat also features a removable table with sturdy base, wraparound lounge seating with storage, adjustable helm bucket seat with swivel, oversized bow deck with locking dry storage box, two deluxe fishing chairs with composite frames and pinchless hinges, aerated divided livewell with timer, six drink holders, depth finder, removable trolling motor and bank charger and interior floor lights for ambiance

Sea Ray - Used Boat

2007-09-19T10:41:00.000-06:00

Sea Ray - Used Boat

For More Info : Sea Ray - Used Boat
Suffolk, Virginia

AN EXCELLENT 39 FOOT 1986 SEA RAY SPORT FISHER POWERBOAT FOR YOU!!! This boat includes a Fiberglass Hull, TWO CAT 3208T Diesel Engines with 345 Horsepower per engine, Recent survey, a Fuel Capacity of 400 Gallons, and a Cruise Speed of 17 Knots. Holds up to 8 People and features AUTO PILOT, Westerbeak 7.5 Diesel generator, Electronics/Navigation Gear, a VHF/Radio, a Loran/GPS System, Outriggers, a Swim Step, Aft freezer and bait station, a Live Well,Fighting chair , Two anchors, Cockpit cover, HARD TOP FLY BRIDGE with curtain enclosure, TV, VCR, and a STEREO SYSTEM. Cabin sleeps 6 People and includes Air Conditioning, a Refrigerator with ICE MAKER, a Shower, an Enclosed Head, and a Fresh Water Tank.

2003 Triton - Used Boat

2007-09-19T10:40:00.000-06:00

2003 Triton - Used Boat

For More Info : 2003 Triton - Used Boat
Troy, Alabama

WHAT A GREAT FISHING BOAT FIND!! This 2003 Triton TR-21X has a MERCURY 225 EFI Engine, a SWIM STEP, a 50 gallon fuel capacity, DEPTH FINDERS, cruise speed of 50 mph/max speed of 76 mph, FIBERGLASS Hull, OUT BOARD, a 74lb Trolling Motor, BOAT COVER and Trailer. A 2-YEAR WARRANTY is INCLUDED!! ASKING $30,000 OBO

1999 Edgewater - Used Boat

2007-08-18T06:10:00.002-06:00

1999 Edgewater - Used Boat

For More Info : 1999 Edgewater - Used Boat
Waterford, Connecticut

Green Hull, gold canvas T-Top, white rails and trim.

Dual 150 HP Yamaha outboards w/ss props-professionally maintained.

Stored indoors summer and winter in boat valet.

Garmin GPSMap, Raytheon 24 mile radar, Raytheon L750 fish finder, Horizon Intrepid VHF radio w/remote mic w/8' Shakespeare antenna, trim tabs, transom bait well and insulated fish box.

Caulkins 8516 GVWR trailer plus tie downs, and load distributing hitch included. 7 adult Type 1 pfds, throwable, 4 child pfds.

Tackle boxes with lures sinkers and hardware, 6 jigging rods/reels 4 spinnig rods/reels and 2 wire trolling rigs.

Dock lines, fenders, legal and expired flares in a dry box.

(2) 1A:10BC fire extinguishers.
A great fishing boat for 4. Legally holds 11.

2005 WellCraft - Used Boat

2007-08-18T06:10:00.001-06:00

2005 WellCraft - Used Boat

For More Info : 2005 WellCraft - Used Boat
Hernando, Florida

Center Console Tournament Edition
12+ rod holders, built in tackle box,
live well, raw water wash down, 3 removable storage (dry), ice box, reversible seat with cooler, twin marine batteries, dual axle aluminum trailer with brakes, depth finder, and more..

1998 Wellcraft - Used Boat

2007-08-18T06:09:00.001-06:00

1998 Wellcraft - Used Boat

For More Info : 1998 Wellcraft - Used Boat
Arvada, Colorado

AN EXCELLENT 24 FOOT 1998 WELLCRAFT SE CRUISER POWERBOAT!!! This boat includes Trim Tabs, Aluminum Propellers, a Volvo Gas Engine with 430 Hours, a Fuel Capacity of 40 Gallons, a Cruise Speed of 35 MPH, and a Max Speed of 45 MPH. Sleeps 8 People and features a VHF/Radio, 110v Power, Bass Finder, Fish Finder, Depth Finder, Ship to Shore Radio, Lake Water Pump, Power Anchor, One Manual Anchor, Six Fishing Pole Holders, Travel Cover, MFR: Typhoon Trailer, Bimini Top, Swim Step, Fire Extinguisher, and Life Vests. Cabin sleeps 4 People and includes a Refrigerator Freezer, Shower, an Enclosed Head, 20-Gallon Fresh Water Tank, and a 6-Gallon Grey Water Tank.

Sailing across Tahoe on the Woodwind II

2007-08-14T23:34:00.000-06:00

Nothing is like sailing on Lake Tahoe. While the lake's beauty is obvious from nearly any angle or perspective, the experience of gliding across its blue waters in a sailboat is something special.

Fortunately, there are alternatives for those of us who don't happen to own a sailboat. A handful of commercial sailing businesses can be found at the lake including the Woodwind II, a 50-passenger catamaran (twin-hulled) sailboat that offers daily public sailing excursions from April to October.

The Woodwind II, and its sister ship, Woodwind I, which is a smaller, trimaran (three hulled) boat, offer all the pleasures of sailing without doing much of the work. You don't have to mess with the sails or do anything with a jib. You just sit back and enjoy the ride.

And what a ride.

On one of those warm, sleepy summer days at Tahoe, a cruise on a sail-powered boat, such as either Woodwind, is perfect way to experience the lake the way it was once described by writer Mark Twain.

In his classic book, "Roughing It," Twain noted that "so singularly clear was the water (at Lake Tahoe) that when it was only twenty or thirty feet deep the bottom was so perfectly distinct that the boat seemed floating in the air! Yes, where it was even eighty feet deep. Every little pebble was distinct, every speckled trout, every hand's-breadth of sand ... so empty and airy did all spaces seem below us, and so strong was the sense of floating high aloft in mid-nothingness, that we called these boat excursions 'balloon voyages'."

Indeed, boating on Tahoe offers the sensation of weightlessness, of hovering atop the water rather than sitting in it. On a still day, the water looks so much like glass that there is the temptation to step from the boat and attempt to walk on the lake's surface, which appears to be made of acrylic rather than liquid. And yet you don't because you know you will sink.

There is something exhilarating about standing on the deck of a sailboat as it lurches with each gust of wind. A stiff breeze musses your hair and the boat kicks up a misty spray that makes you blink back a tear or two. It might not be as exciting as hunting for Moby Dick but it's certainly fun.

The Woodwind II is the largest sailboat to ever ply Lake Tahoe, measuring 55 feet long and 30 feet wide. The boat's mast rises 64 feet high (almost 80 feet above the water) and the sail stretches over about 1,500 feet.

At that size, the catamaran can reach some serious speeds on the water. It is capable of achieving more than 20 knots with sail power and has twin, 150 horsepower, turbocharged diesel engines for motoring when the wind dies down (they can chug along at up to 16 knots).

As for amenities, the Woodwind II offers a full bar, a sun deck, seating for 36 in an enclosed main salon, private booths and two underwater observation windows.

The Woodwind II, which shares the same dock at Zephyr Cove Resort as the M.S. Dixie II paddlewheeler, heads out into the lake's blue waters five times daily. Regular cruises, which last about 90-minutes, are scheduled daily at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

The happy hour cruise, which departs at 5:30 p.m., includes half-price drink specials. At 7 p.m., the catamaran takes a sunset Champagne cruise, which includes complimentary beer, wine and champagne.

Woodwind II cruise prices (regular) are $28 for adults and $12 for children 3-12. Happy hour prices are $26 for adults, and the sunset cruise is $36. There is $4 discount on any cruise for seniors older than 60.

For more information or to make reservations call 888-867-6394, #2.

DNR: Boat anglers should take it slow and use extreme caution

2007-07-26T02:55:00.001-06:00

DNR: Boat anglers should take it slow and use extreme caution
7/25/2007, 3:41 p.m. ET
The Associated Press

(AP) — Rivers and streams around the state are reporting low water levels, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources says.

Boat anglers traveling on these waterways will want to take it slow and use extreme caution. Water temperatures are warm, so anglers will want to fish the deeper holes, the DNR says in its weekly fishing report.

___

SOUTHEAST LOWER PENINSULA:

Lake Erie: Walleye fishing has been fair. Try between the Dumping Grounds and the Banana Dike in 13 to 17 feet of water when using crankbaits and crawler harnesses. Colors vary day to day. Good bass fishing off Point Mouillee. Perch fishing has continued to improve with most boats taking 20 to 30 fish per trip. The fish are averaging 8 to 10 inches. Fishing the southern parts near Luna Pier and the Michigan/Ohio boundary waters produced the better catches when using minnows. Channel catfish are still being caught.

Huron River: Shore anglers are taking good numbers of bass.

Detroit River: Walleye have been caught when jigging worms or leeches. Some are handlining at night. Smallmouth bass are hitting on rubber gobies. Perch have been caught south of Sugar Island and Celeron Island in 6 to 8 feet of water. Try perch rigs and shiner minnows.

St. Clair River: Walleye fishing has been fair. Anglers are drifting or slow trolling with crawler harnesses. Pencil plugs have also caught a few fish.

Port Sanilac: Has good perch fishing around various weedbeds in 20 to 40 feet of water. Lake trout can be found in 90 to 100 feet of water.

Harbor Beach: Has seen very little activity but should be good for lake trout.

Grindstone City: Has real good walleye fishing in 28 to 60 feet of water from Lighthouse Park to New River. Crawler harnesses trolled on lead core worked best.

Port Austin: Has good walleye fishing off the reefs in 40 feet of water and good lake trout fishing just off the bottom in 90 to 105 feet of water. Chinook and steelhead have also been caught when trolling.

Saginaw Bay: The area around Buoys 1 & 2 is still producing best, but the Spark Plug and the Slot are also producing some good catches. Those trolling are using crawler harnesses, spoons and crankbaits. Shore anglers are getting a few catfish in the Hot Ponds. Slow fishing was reported around Caseville.

Saginaw River: Shore anglers are taking a few catfish.

Quanicassee River: Catfish have been caught by shore anglers when using crawlers or minnows.

___

SOUTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA:

St. Joseph River: Skamania are in the river. We have passed at least 1,500 as of last week. There should be enough fish in the river by now for anglers to go after them. Fishing pressure has been light.

South Haven: Boat anglers are catching good numbers of chinook salmon when trolling in waters 30 to 80 feet deep. Pier fishing has been fair with summer run skamania hitting on spoons in the early morning. Perch fishing remains good when using minnows in 20 to 30 feet of water.

Grand Haven: Boat anglers are trolling in waters 150 to 200 feet deep for trout and salmon. The best colors for out deep have been blue and yellow. Salmon can be found around the piers. Boat anglers are fishing with white J-Plugs while the pier anglers have done well when using alewife. No perch to report.

Grand River at Grand Rapids: Water levels are extremely low. Boats coming from Johnson Park should not go past the Fulton Street Bridge. A few skamania have been caught up near the Sixth Street Dam when using yarn and spawn bags. Pink and chartreuse have been good colors. Walleye can be found in the deeper holes when using crawlers, minnows and leeches. Some large flathead catfish have been caught on sucker minnows.

Reeds Lake: Lots of largemouth bass have been caught in the early morning and late evening when using top water baits and plastic jerk baits. Pike fishing has been very good but the perch fishing was slow and the fish are small.

Murray Lake: Some crappie up to 14 inches have been caught on minnows when fishing about 6 feet down in 20 feet of water around Southwest Island.

Grand River at Lansing: Water levels are low, but bass and panfish have been caught above the North Lansing Dam. Fish have been spotted below the dam as well. Carp and catfish have been caught. Good baits to use have been crawlers, leaf worms, butter worms, wax worms and leeches.

Lake Delta: Still has good bass fishing. Panfish and pike are also providing some good action.

Muskegon: Fish have been caught about 45 feet down in waters 60 to 90 feet deep. Good colors have been blue, green and even black and purple as the sun gets brighter. No report from the piers.

___

NORTHEAST LOWER PENINSULA:

Rogers City: A mixed bag of chinook, coho, atlantics, brown trout, lake trout and steelhead have been caught between the harbor and north toward Forty Mile Point, in front of Calcite Harbor, Swan Bay and off Adams Point. Water depths have varied greatly from one day to another, but try 55 to 110 feet deep while using downriggers up and down the water column. Some are running slide divers and dipseys about 180 feet back. Lead core in five colors with a small planer board and orange spoons have caught steelhead.

Presque Isle: Has pretty much the same report as Rogers City. Good places to try are straight out from the harbor or between the two lighthouses. Popular colors have been blue, green, purple, yellow, black and white.

Alpena: Salmon action has been slow, but lake trout are being caught right off the bottom in waters 120 to 150 feet deep. Most fish were taken about 6 miles out from Thunder Bay Island and around the lighthouse.

Thunder Bay River: Walleye and catfish have been caught along the river. Walleye are hitting on bodybaits and worms. The catfish are hitting primarily on worms. Under the new bridge is a good place to fish for walleye, especially on the Chisholm Street side.

Harrisville: Anglers are picking up a few lake trout in waters 75 to 130 feet deep. Spoons have worked best. The farther north of Harrisville you go the better the fishing has been.

Oscoda: A few lake trout have been caught but no limit catches to report. Most of the fish have been in the 3- to 6-pound range and have been caught right off the bottom in 90 to 120 feet of water. No salmon or steelhead to report. Pier anglers are catching undersize smallmouth bass, walleye, catfish and freshwater drum when using crawlers and leeches.

Tawas Bay: Fishing has been slow. A few walleye were taken in waters 50 to 85 feet deep. A lot of guys are going south toward the Charity Islands to fish walleye in 35 to 50 feet of water. There is very good smallmouth bass fishing in the bay with 3- to 5-pound fish taken, most of which are being released. Pier anglers are catching a few bass.

Au Gres: Walleye fishing is still very good, but it seems the fish have moved south of the port about 8 to 10 miles. Most are using harnesses in 25 to 30 feet of water.

Au Gres River: Shore anglers are taking some catfish.

Houghton Lake: No limits are being taken, but fish are being caught. Most fish are being caught around the weed beds when using crawlers and leeches. Bass and pike fishing have been the best. Anglers are trolling in the early morning and evenings or still-fishing over the weed beds during the day.

___

NORTHWEST LOWER PENINSULA:

Petoskey: A few salmon and lake trout have been caught in front of Bay Harbor when trolling flies and spoons 100 feet down in waters 135 feet deep.

Walloon Lake: Walleye fishing was slow. A few rainbow trout were caught in 40 to 90 feet of water when trolling rapalas, thundersticks or spoons. Lake trout can be found just off the bottom.

Charlevoix: Salmon were taken at various depths when trolling spoons with flies off North Point in the early morning. A good number of fish were taken about 80 feet down, and those fish ranged between 7 and 14 pounds.

Thumb Lake (Lake Louise): Splake action has picked up in the East Basin when trolling spoons, spinners or rapalas in 28 to 50 feet of water. Some have started night fishing with good results not only for splake, but smelt. Some 8- to 10-inch fish have been caught on wax worms in 50 feet of water. Bass were caught, but the fish are running small. Bluegills and pumpkinseed sunfish are hitting on crawlers, minnows and leeches in 10 to 15 feet of water.

Traverse City: In the East Bay, chinook salmon are now being caught when trolling spoons off Deepwater Point and the Bluffs. Whitefish action was spotty with fish taken on wigglers along the southern end of the bay near Mountain Jacks in 60 to 80 feet of water. Lake trout action has been very good from the launch at Center Road to the Bluffs. Smallmouth bass have been caught when drifting minnows near Elk Rapids, but the fish are small. In the West Bay, chinook were caught when trolling spoons from Lookout Point to Elmwood. Lake trout fishing was slow with only a few fish taken near the gravel pit. Smallmouth bass were caught when casting spinner baits and bodybaits along Old Mission from Tucker Point to Merril Point.

Elk River: Catfish have been caught both upstream and at the mouth. Try large minnows, crawlers or shrimp.

Frankfort: Boat anglers are taking good catches of chinook and steelhead from the Herring Hole up past Point Betsie. Water temperatures are cold, so most of the fish are being caught in the top 50 feet of waters 70 to 180 feet deep.

Onekama: Has good chinook salmon fishing in 60 to 100 feet of water straight out from the piers and up near the Barrel. Good colors have been green and blue.

Portage Lake: Anglers trolling for walleye and pike have been catching fish in the early afternoon. Crawler harnesses trolled or drifted along the weed edges have produced lots of pike and a good number of walleye. Panfish can be found in waters 7 to 20 feet deep. Bass are hitting on crankbaits.

Manistee: Boat anglers trolling in the harbor and out to waters 70 feet deep have caught chinook, coho and steelhead. Pier anglers are casting spoons or using alewife.

Big Manistee River: Those fishing below Tippy Dam have caught brown trout and rainbow trout when fly fishing or using soft shell crabs and leaf worms.

Ludington: Boat anglers are trolling in the harbor and just outside the piers for chinook and brown trout. Some are trolling north between the State Park and the Point. More fish were taken when trolling glow spoons and flies in the early morning then changing over to blue and green spoons later in the day. Concentrate in waters 50 to 70 feet deep. Those fishing off both piers have caught salmon when casting spoons or using alewife. A few perch were caught off the North Pier.

___

UPPER PENINSULA:

West Portage Lake: Had good walleye action when fishing the Humps, on the North Bar, between Grosse Point and Dollar Bay and along the west shoreline between Chassell and Pilgrim Point. The better method has been crawler harnesses off planer boards or when back trolling without planer boards.

Paint Pond: Muskie anglers reported fair action.

Twin Falls Impoundment: Has fair muskie fishing.

Ottawa Lake: In Iron County has fair to good smallmouth bass fishing.

Michigamme Reservoir: A few walleye have been caught.

Green Bay: The salmon is "King" right now in the waters of Green Bay. All ports are reporting very good catches of chinook and some brown trout.

Little Bay De Noc: The better walleye catches have been in the early morning or late evening. Those fishing during the day have marked fish, but catch rates were slow. Fish were caught between Gladstone Beach and the Black Bottom when jigging crawlers in 18 to 33 feet of water. Several nice catches were taken between the Ford River and Breezy Point when trolling crankbaits at night. Perch are hitting in 10 to 14 feet of water off Butler Island and in 18 to 25 feet of water out by the Narrows. A couple salmon were taken when trolling 40 to 50 feet down in waters 80 to 100 feet deep.

Big Bay De Noc: Anglers are catching lots of salmon 40 to 60 feet down in 80 to 120 feet of water, but the fish are running small. Glows with green and black are doing best. No walleye to report. Some nice perch were caught near Ogontz when jigging in 14 feet of water. Garden Bay reported some nice perch when jigging worms in 8 to 18 feet of water.

Marquette: Lake trout were the top catch, followed by coho salmon. Green spoons have worked best at various depths.

Munising: Anglers have done well for lake trout when using both natural and artificial baits. The better fishing seems to be on the days with only a light wind. Good numbers of splake have been caught just off the mouth of the Anna River when using spawn and spoons.

Au Train: Lake trout anglers have done well on the calm days. Fish have been caught in waters 50 to 300 feet deep.

Au Train Lake: Anglers are taking 4- to 8-inch perch along with the occasional small pike. Light numbers of walleye and smallmouth bass were also caught.

Grand Marais: Anglers are catching whitefish off the pier. Limits of lake trout have been caught 3 to 5 miles off shore.

St. Mary's River: Walleye and smallmouth bass fishing are good near Round Island. Most are slow trolling with crawler harnesses in the early morning. The boat launch at Raber Bay makes for easy access to the island.

De Tour: Herring and whitefish action slowed around Drummond Island, but fish were still taken on a red teardrop tipped with a wax worm in 28 feet of water near Long Island. Fly hatches are going on around the islands in Potagmannissing Bay.

Cedarville and Hessel: Out of Hessel, a few salmon have been caught around Goose Island when fishing shallow waters 15 to 30 feet deep. Smallmouth bass have been caught off the rocky points. Pier anglers have caught smallmouth bass, perch and pike. Sunfish and yellow perch are biting in Musky Bay and the Moscoe Channel. Excellent pike fishing was reported in Cedarville Bay and the Middle Entrance when using spinner baits in 30 feet of water.

St. Ignace: Anglers are salmon fishing between St. Ignace and the Coast Guard Station, but the catch rates have slowed. Anglers fishing with spoons or flies and flashers were taking mostly 3- to 8-pound fish.

1998 Stott Craft - Used Boat

2007-07-06T11:00:00.001-06:00

1998 Stott Craft - Used Boat

For More Info : 1998 Stott Craft - Used Boat
Spring Hill, Florida

LOOK AT THIS 22-FOOT STOTT CRAFT POWER BOAT IN EXCELLENT CONDITION!!! It has a 220 JOHNSON OUTBOARD ENGINE. The max speed is 55. It can carry up to SIX PASSENGERS and is equipped with a TV/DVD, GPS, and VHF/RADIO. Sport features include a SWIM STEP, TWO BAIT WELLS, LIVE BOX, and an OPEN FISHER. This boat also comes with UNDER SEAT COOLERS and a T-TOP!!!

Buying a boat lets you 'own' all the waterfront property that you ever dreamed of

2007-07-06T10:59:00.000-06:00

Buying a boat lets you 'own' all the waterfront property that you ever dreamed of

By Scott Burns | July 6, 2007

BAYSIDE, Maine -- The midday sky darkens as the Surprise slides toward its mooring. We drop the sails. We have everything tied down just as the rain shifts from drops to downpour. The radio mentions thunderstorms along the entire midcoast of Maine, an area that may be the most beautiful sailing ground in the world.

Unlike previous sailing trips, the Surprise is not a rented vessel. She is a J30 sloop, vintage 1981. She was named in honor of the legendary Captain Jack Aubrey's vessel after my brother Doug and I bought her with a winning bid at the Maine Maritime Academy charity boat auction last year.

She is fast. A mere puff of wind will move her at 5 knots. A good breeze will take her to 7 knots and more. Below decks she nominally sleeps six in the space one might find in a 25-foot Airstream. Light the cabin heater and she offers a comfortable nest of well-varnished wood. More important, she is a moveable feast of stunning waterfront.

Whether they are sail or power, boats are often described as money pits -- "like taking an ice-cold shower while burning $100 bills," or as "holes in the water into which one pours large quantities of money."

I beg to differ.

Today, boats are one of the few ways people who aren't rich may get to enjoy magnificent water views. Along this part of the Maine coast a very rustic waterfront cottage is likely to sell for $500,000 or more. In the more posh areas, like Castine and Blue Hill, the cost of entry is well over $1 million.

The math here is oppressive. A $1 million mortgage (at 6 percent) costs $6,000 a month for all 12 months. But prime season is less than three months, so the real cost is $24,000 a month, or about $800 a day. And that's before you consider taxes, insurance, maintenance, and utilities.

This is not unique to Maine. Check the prices of waterfront houses on Cape Cod, Long Island, and Annapolis, or anywhere along the Florida coast, and waterfront is priced in multiples of $1 million. The same is true, in spades, on the West Coast. Anything on the water, anywhere, is the stuff of trophies -- and priced accordingly.

The prices, I think, are further evidence of the growing gap between the Paycheck Economy and the Portfolio Economy. In the Paycheck Economy -- the one most of us live in -- houses are bought (and rent is paid) with monthly payments. Those monthly payments are tied very closely to monthly income. The monthly income, in turn, is sustained by the indignity and inconvenience of work.

In the Portfolio Economy -- the one Forbes Life, the Robb Report, and Architectural Digest chronicle -- everything is done with small shifts in large piles of preexisting assets. Nothing is tied to a paycheck or something as ephemeral as monthly income. Everything is a portfolio transaction, a movement of assets from one form (hedge fund, IPO, inherited stock, etc.) to another (trophy waterfront house, mega-yacht, etc.).

When it comes to waterfront and water-view property, the Portfolio Economy is crowding out the Paycheck Economy.

What can those of us who live in the Paycheck Economy do about it?

One answer: Buy a boat. It is possible to get on the water in a habitable boat for less than $30,000.

Another answer: Rent a waterfront house. While it may cost $500,000 or more to buy one of these properties, a great many "cottages" are available by the week for about $1,000. That's less than $150 a day, well under the actual or imputed costs of the owner. The gap between the cost of owning waterfront vacation property and the cost of renting it has been enormous for decades.

All we need to do is remind ourselves: It is possible to experience something without owning it.

Scott Burns is a syndicated columnist. He can be reached at scott@scottburns.com.

Incentives land boat maker, 858 jobs

2007-07-02T14:58:00.001-06:00

Incentives land boat maker, 858 jobs

Millions of dollars in state incentives have convinced boat-maker Brunswick Corp. to build a manufacturing facility on the coast that will create 858 jobs.

Gov. Mike Easley said Monday that the Chicago company will set up shop in Navassa, a small town in, fittingly, Brunswick County. The state offered as much as $4.36 million in tax withholdings under the Job Development Investment Grants economic-development program.

Brunswick Corp. (NYSE: BC) says it will invest $51.2 million in the next five years in the area, where it plans to manufacture yachts at a facility it's acquiring from boat-maker Rampage. The average pay of the jobs will be $31,293 plus benefits, just above Brunswick County's average of $30,576.

The company already employs roughly 1,500 people in North Carolina, most of whom work for its Hatteras Yachts division in New Bern and Swansboro.

1995 Boston - Used Boat

2007-06-27T11:11:00.001-06:00

1995 Boston - Used Boat

For More Info : 1995 Boston - Used Boat
South Portland, Maine

AN EXCELLENT 24 FOOT 1995 BOSTON WHALER POWERBOAT!!! Includes a FIBERGLASS Hull and an Outboard Gas Engine with 200 Hours, 225 Horsepower, a Fuel Capacity of 200 Gallons, and a Max Speed of 42. Features include a Fish Finder, Live Well, Bimini Top, Consol Cover, Rod Holders, and TWO Captains Chairs. Cabin includes a Freezer and a Grey Water Tank.

2005 Gambler - Used Boat

2007-06-25T10:58:00.001-06:00

2005 Gambler - Used Boat

For More Info : 2005 Gambler - Used Boat
Newberry, Florida

A GREAT 21 FOOT 2005 GAMBLER BASS BOAT!!! Includes a FIBERGLASS Hull and Keel, and a Mercury 250 Outboard Gas Engine with 110 Hours, 250 Horsepower, a Fuel Capacity of 45 Gallons, a Cruise Speed of 60, and a Max Speed of 82. Features include a GPS System, TWO Live Wells, a Trailer, Boat Cover, CD STEREO SYSTEM, 109 Pound Thrust Motor Guide Trolling Motor, and a Fish Finder.

Buying a Used Boat

2007-06-20T10:23:00.000-06:00

- Used Boat Buying Checklist

- Used boat: Bargain or boondoggle?

Used boat: Bargain or boondoggle?

2007-06-20T10:20:00.000-06:00

Used boat: Bargain or boondoggle?

Outdoors column by Jerry Gerardi

Summer is boating time. Trouble is, new boats cost big bucks. No problem, just get yourself a pre-owned one.

But be careful before you plunk down your cash. There are some pitfalls you must avoid.

To help you avoid those pitfalls when you finally do find the love of your life, here are a few tips obtained from experts in the boat- and motor-repair business (and a few blunders by yours truly). Heed the advice and you can save yourself a lot of money and heartache.

When you examine a boat, take your time and be methodical. Start at one end and carefully check it out as you circle the craft. A good plan would be to start at the stern and end there.

Look for cracks in the transom. Small, hairline splits in the gelcoat (that's the smooth outer layer of fiberglass that has the color in it) might hide more serious problems. The wood in the transom might have split, causing the glass to crack.

Another transom problem is where holes left by old mountings were not properly plugged, or where there are bubbles in the fiberglass. They could be letting water in that will eventually rot the wood. If there is rotted wood in the transom, it must be repaired or replaced. The wood in the transom is what provides strength to support the motor in an outboard and the out-drive in an inboard/outboard.

For small sections of rotted wood, a product called Git Rot works well. Poured on the rotted wood, it results in a repair stronger than the original wood. More extensive rot is trouble and difficult to repair.

Be sure to check out her bottom. Look for more cracks, bubbles or actual holes.

Old patches should be tested for soundness and her keel thumped with a knuckle or rubber mallet. If you hear a hollow sound, chances are fiberglass has separated from the wood keel. This could result in the glass cracking under stress.

Repairing the problem can be tricky. Better let someone with a lot of fiberglass experience check it out.

Also be sure to look at the steering cable or cables. There should be no cuts or cracks in the outer covering.

Minor repairs can be made with tape and WD 40 or CRC. Spray the area with a saturating coat of a marine penetrating lube like CRC or LPS. Wipe away the excess from around the bare spot or crack and tape it over tightly with a weatherproof tape. The object is to keep moisture out and stop existing corrosion. Serious cracks must be replaced.

Check the steering head (the part where the cable attaches and the steering wheel mounts) for looseness.

Turn the steering wheel and look for excessive slop or play. This could indicate simply loose mounting bolts or, worse case, worn gears. Uncorrected, you might find yourself zigging when you want to be zagging. Bummer. It's a repair you can do yourself.

Check out the bling
The condition of chrome trim is an indicator of the shape of the metal it plates. Pits and corrosion could mean the metal underneath is not in the best of condition. Ski bars, bow eyes, and tow rings are especially vulnerable. They undergo severe stress. If you find surface damage or corrosion, look closer.

Engine condition is just as important as hull condition. For starters, check the propeller. It should not be broken, chipped or bent severely. A slightly bent prop isn't too bad, since it usually can be straightened. Minor chips in the blades can be filed down. However, heavily damaged propellers will need reconditioning (at moderate expense).

The skeg on the bottom of an outboard motor shouldn't be bent or broken. A damaged or bent skeg can have a bad effect on a boat's steering, especially on high-horsepower engines.

Pull the plug on the lower unit to check for leaks. Only oil should come out. Water mixed with the oil (often coming out as a milky liquid) indicates the seals are leaking and need to be replaced. Water in the lower unit can result in rusted gears and bearings. Fishing line wrapped behind the propeller is the most common cause of seal leaks.

Pull the prop, as they sometimes get corroded onto the shaft and must be removed with a torch. That's expensive, since you'll need to replace the entire prop.

Overall corrosion on the motor can be an indicator of the care it has had. If there's a lot of rust and corrosion on the outside, chances are there's a lot on the inside too.

Look for corrosion in the electrical system, especially the connections. Check for a green powder on connectors and cables. If you spot any, be ready to repair or replace the part.

Finally, get her motor running. The basic step of running the engine is often skipped by buyers blinded by the gleam of the dream boat they just found. Don't fall for the old “dead battery” line. It could prove costly. Also be aware that very old motors are tough to fix. Only a few shops will repair them.

Listen for knocks, clanks, scrapes or any other unusual noise. Make sure the water pump is working and the water that comes out is not too hot to touch.

Shift the gears. Gear changing should be smooth and quiet. A failure here could just be a maladjusted shift cable or bad gears that will cost big bucks.

If you're looking at an outboard motor, grasp the engine cover, rock and twist it firmly and look for movement in the motor. That would indicate bad motor mounts (a real pain to fix).

Also, check accessories such as lights, power trim and tilt, baitwell and bilge pumps, etc. You don't want surprises later.

A test drive is important
If everything checks out, and you're serious about buying the boat, try it in the water. Running the engine with a garden hose isn't the same as running under a load. A test run also lets you see if there's a handling or power problem.

Don't forget to check the trailer. Look for excessive rust that might be weakening the frame. Light rust can be chipped, scraped and the trailer painted with a rust-preventive paint or a cold-galvanizing spray. Rusty springs are a given, but easily replaced.

Wheel bearings should turn smoothly, with little noise. Rims must not be rusted to the hubs. Tire and rim condition should be checked, and while you're at it, try the lights.

If you aren't sure about checking out a boat yourself, most marine repair services will do it for you. And by having a pro check it, you can get an accurate estimate of any costs for repairs. Present this information to the person selling and you just might get a break on the price.

No Boat Trailer Needed: Amphibious Car Coming in 2009

2007-06-14T14:07:00.000-06:00

No Boat Trailer Needed: Amphibious Car Coming in 2009

German company Gibbs plans to bring two new amphibious vehicles to the U.S. in 2009. A sports car that can reach 30 mph (knots?) in the water called Aquada, and an ATV that doubles as a personal watercraft called the Quadski will lead the first wave — we know, bad pun — of models.

Gibbs has been testing the Miata-esque looking Aquada in Michigan where the company hopes to base its North American operations. No dealer network or prices were given, but selling these two at motorcycle, ATV and boat dealers makes the most sense. How much would you pay for your own Aquada?

Fishing trip to Alaska taken just for the halibut

2007-06-12T10:08:00.000-06:00

Fishing trip to Alaska taken just for the halibut

By JULI PROBASCO-SOWERS
REGISTER STAFF WRITER

Homer, Alaska - The short, fat, fishing rod bowed against the weight of the 121-pound halibut.

The angler pulled on the rod then reeled in line - reeling and repeating, again and again.

Mike Wearly of Anchorage, Alaska, braced himself against the railing of the Donna Mae, a 28-foot charter fishing boat anchored off Elizabeth Island in southern Cook Inlet, off Kachemak Bay in Alaska, about 35 miles from port in Homer. Keeping his footing was tough between wrestling with the huge fish and the rocking of the boat on the ocean swells.

He caught some nice keepers in the 28- to 35-pound range, but he was waiting for "the big one." It took Wearly more than 30 minutes to reel in the halibut, his arms tiring and sweat standing on his forehead.

I, on the other hand, the landlubber from Iowa, was amazed when I pulled in the first halibut I ever caught, about a 28-pound fish. I quickly realized I should have been lifting weights for several weeks before I went halibut fishing on a vacation with my husband, Tom.

My desire to halibut fish in Alaska was fed in part from seeing photos of fish caught by Iowans. Adding fuel to the desire was an article I wrote in 2004 about Steve Button and wife Donna, former Iowans who live in Palmer, Alaska. I interviewed Steve while he was visiting in the Des Moines area.

During the summer season, Button takes his charter boat to Homer, where he lives on the boat and takes sport anglers into the waters of Kachemak Bay and Lower Cook Inlet.

The thought of catching a big fish was tantalizing as well. The previous biggest fish I caught was a 3-pound largemouth bass on the Cedar River.

After hooking into my first halibut, reeling and pulling up the rod time after time to bring in the fish set a burn into my arms. I kept going, determined to bring the fish to the surface under my own steam.

By the time the halibut was to the boat, I was sweating and pulling off outer layers of fleece and rain gear I had put on at 6:30 a.m. Button hauled the fish on board, and my first halibut was landed.

Halibut action ebbed and flowed through the afternoon, but the 90-minute trip out to where we fished, and the slack times in between halibut bites, were filled with watching wildlife. Mountain goats and their young could be seen on the craggy, steep slopes of the islands.

As we watched the goats, one of the Alaskans fishing on the Donna Mae, Keith Lipse of Big Lake, Alaska, said eagles sometimes swoop and knock the baby goats off the cliffs to provide themselves with dinner.

Tufted puffins, black-and-white birds with orange beaks, bobbed up and down with the ocean swells, just yards from the boat. (I won't detail all the wildlife we saw, but will mention the seagull that made a deposit on my rain gear back at the dock while the fish were being filleted.)

A humpback whale came several hundred yards from the boat, blowing water into the air and diving with its tail out of the water.

Occasionally an angler would catch a different species of fish on the bait of herring - a black bass, a very spiny Irish Lord fish and a ling cod. The large halibut was caught on a red salmon head used as bait.

Seeing the scenery and wildlife is reason enough to go halibut fishing. Besides, my husband and I enjoyed the company of four other people fishing off the Donna Mae, including Lipse; his cousin, LaVonne Phillips of Trabuco Canyon, Calif.; and friends Wearly and Sean Smithson of Anchorage, Alaska.

Only three of us were novice halibut anglers, but we all got some fish. And although this might sound a bit like sour grapes, experienced halibut anglers said the smaller fish caught by Tom and I and others on the boat, in the 30- to 45-pound range, are better eating than the ones weighing over 100 pounds.

About 12 hours after leaving port, we returned with 12 halibut - two each.

Tom and I were tired and sore as we made our way back to our room.

But the next day we headed home with 90 pounds of halibut and more memories than I ever imagined.

Reporter Juli Probasco-Sowers can reached at (515) 284-8134 or jprobasco@dmreg.com

Family's sailboat lost to lightning strike

2007-06-11T10:39:00.000-06:00

Family's sailboat lost to lightning strike

The remains of the mast from the Steve family's sailboat, the Skol, lies across the charred dock from where it was struck by lightning.

COEUR D'ALENE -- The effects of Monday's lightning storm are still being felt in Coeur d'Alene, especially in Cougar Bay where the show quickly turned into a raging fire.

A bolt of lightning struck a family sailboat along Lake Coeur d’Alene, sparking a fire that gutted the boat and sent it to a watery grave at the lake’s bottom. Losing the boat for the Steve family was like losing a good friend.

From her porch perched above Lake Coeur d'Alene, Liz Steve watches the choppy water below and a now charred dock where her sailboat, the Skol, once called home.

“I never dreamed of anything like that happening,” Liz said.

Lightning turned the dark sky purple Monday night and while she loves storms, she said this one was awful, grabbing her chest thinking she had been hit. She wasn’t hit but a phone call moments later from a neighbor confirmed a lightning strike had happened close by.

“He called up and said ‘Hey Liz you're boat’s on fire,’ I said that's not my boat he said ‘Yes it is, I'm afraid it is,’” Liz said.

“I saw our boat going away, that's what I saw, flames must have been 30-feet high,” family friend Conall Kingrey said.

All that’s left of the Skol is a few scattered, broken pieces. The boat had been in Steve’s family for 30 years and when it sank Monday night so did Liz Steve’s heart. Her kids and grandkids all learned to sail on the boat on Lake Coeur d’Alene and all those trips bring back wonderful memories for her.

Even the Skol is gone, family and friends still find time to laugh about it.

“There's no sense in crying about it, it's not going to bring it back ya know,” Conall said.

And of course there’s always time to figure out who’s to blame.

“Well, I was going to blame her but she said no way. Not going to blame God, taking too much of a chance, I'll say fate,” Conall said.

Park may place restrictions on motorized boats

2007-06-05T10:57:00.001-06:00

Park may place restrictions on motorized boats
NBC2 News
Last updated on: 6/5/2007 1:02:11 AM

COLLIER COUNTY: Motorized boating in Everglades National Park could take a hit. The park is creating a new long term plan that could mean many restrictions for motorized boaters. But many people say motorized boating is what they rely on as their main source of income and the restrictions could mean big problems.

For Collier resident Kevin McCole, there's no place like Chokoloskee to go fishing.

"This is heaven on Earth out here," said McCole.

Business owner Kenny Brown says he relies on motor boats and people like McCole to stay in business.

"The likely-hood of another industry is very remote. This industry is historic - the fishing and boating going on here," said Brown.

But the small slice of heaven could change. Everglades National Park is drafting a new long term management plan that includes restrictions on motorized boating.

One of the restrictions goes as far to say that there are to be no motorized boats on water that is less than three feet deep. But that basically means no motorized boating there at all because all of the water is less than three feet deep.

That plan falls under Alternative Plan D which is the strictest. However, there are three others.

Plan A leaves everything as it is now.

Plan B gives up some back country zones to paddle-only areas. But Brown says the back country zone is where the fish are.

"That's some of the best snook fishing on the planet is and we can't give up the back country," said Brown.

Plan C would make some waterway segments off limits to motorized boaters, but boaters say that blocks the gateway to the fishing spots.

"When you look at the alternative, they have no idea how the park is being used for recreational purposes," said McCole.

But a spokeswoman for the Everglades National Park says nothing is set in stone because the plans are preliminary.

The plans also include many positives like building a visitor's center and expanding camping grounds and land-based programs.

They say they'll continue to gather public comments to come up with a plan that everybody can live with - all while protecting the environment.

There will be a public meeting in Everglades City School this Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. to discuss the park's long term plans.

2005 MB - Used Boat

2007-06-04T11:02:00.000-06:00

2005 MB - Used Boat

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Tracy, California

READY FOR SOME SUMMER FUN? CHECK OUT THIS SKI BOAT…..SHOWROOM CONDITION…..It has 330 HP and only 40 hours on the engine…..Holds 45-gallons of fuel, cruises at 40 MPH, and can go 55 MPH…..Features include a fiberglass hull, trailer, boat cover, Bimini top, wakeboard boat, Pro Pass cruise control, swim step, wakeboard boat and a 1600-pound ballast…..It holds eight passengers, has a 4-bladed prop, and a Clarion stereo with HUGE woofers …..Call for more information…..

Boat and RV sales not suffering, despite high gas prices

2007-05-31T10:08:00.001-06:00

Boat and RV sales not suffering, despite high gas prices
5/30/2007 4:18 PM
By: Jessica Mokhiber

-- Click to Watch Video --
Boat and RV sales
Temperatures are rising, and more and more people are going to be heading out on their boats and in their RVs for the summer. But with the gas prices rising, are sales of boats and RVs slowing down? Jessica Mokhiber caught up with some people, whose answers may surprise you.

It costs more these days to get to where you're going, and not just for cars. With gas prices at near-record highs, it also costs more for boaters and people with RVs to fill up.

Dockside Landing Boat and Yacht Owner Craig Merrell said, "First of all, it's on the news channels on a daily basis."

So you may think that less people are boating. But it seems that's not the case.

Boat N RV Warehouse owner Geoffrey Hoffman said, "It's more a conversation people have in our showroom. People talk about gas prices, but it doesn't affect a recreational purchase."

"People are still coming in. People are still coming in on vacation. People still need to get away and enjoy themselves, and getting out on the water is one of the best ways to do that," said Merrell.

Hoffman, who also sells RVs, said gas prices haven't slowed down those sales either, but he thinks people may drive them less.

"Maybe on an RV, they'll leave it on the campground at the site more than they'll tow it around," Hoffman said.

But he agrees with Merrell and said in this day and age, people need their leisure time, and he thinks that's why gas prices aren't slowing down sales.

"We work really hard, and it's a stressed-out society these days, and people put a premium on their leisure time, and they work really hard for it," said Hoffman.

Merrell said, "All in all though, for experienced boaters, and people who love to boat, I don't think gas prices have affected things too much this year."

First-time boat buyer tips

2007-05-30T10:44:00.000-06:00

First-time boat buyer tips

May 30 2007

While boating is fun, finding a boat can be a tough task. Numerous things can impact the decision-making process when you’re looking to buy a boat, be it usage issues, storage concerns or, perhaps most influential, the price tag.

Usage

If you’ll be using the boat as your getaway for weekend fishing trips or just to go out for an early morning sail, then buying a bigger boat would be foolish and more expensive. However, if you want a boat on which you can take friends and family, then buying a smaller boat would be foolish. A large boat consumes more fuel, yet a small craft may not fit enough family members and therefore not be used as often.

Another thing to consider with respect to usage and location is how often you’ll be using the boat and how much you’ll be switching locales. If you plan on taking your boat out to several different spots, then the boat you buy should be one that can easily fit on a trailer. This means you’ll want a smaller boat that is not a hassle every time you want to take it out.

If you want your boat for overnight trips, the availabiltiy of sleeping accomodations is vital.

Having a boat that cannot handle the waters you’ll be on can make your trip – be it a day or overnight one – a rough sail more akin to a nightmare than a relaxing daydream.

Ask some local sailors, who will know what boats go best with the waters in your specific area.

Type of boat

Selecting your boat based on it’s function is important.

If you want a boat solely for fishing purposes, you have many options. These can greatly range in price and size.

Typically, a fishing boat will have in convenience what it lacks in comfort. This is mainly because catching fish can be a messy experience, making maintenance a constant concern.

Fishing boats vary in size and function, with the less expensive all-purpose ones boasting a few seats and ample space for fishing gear. The more expensive boats, such as offshore sportfishing vessels are good for both fishing and entertaining family and friends.

Power boats come in many different designs and boast a variety of uses, but are usually intended for people looking to entertain friends and have a good time.

Sailboats are popular, but sailing a sailboat can be extremely difficult, requiring training and skill.

Schooling alongside an experienced sailor on their boat would be your best bet before hitting the open waters on your own.

http://www.vicnews.com/portals-code/list.cgi?paper=36&cat=46&id=994313&more=0

Hunter - Used Boat

2007-05-23T17:34:00.001-06:00

Hunter - Used Boat

For More Info : Hunter - Used Boat
Toronto, Ontario

One of the most popular Hunter designs the Hunter 31 embodies a large cockpit with pedestal wheel steering, Great for a family or friends to enjoy the weekend outing or the club racing on a weeknight. Accommodations for 6 make this boat the perfect size all around.Follow the link for full photos and details
http://beachesrealestate.com/files/hunter31.pdf

Thousands Watch Whales Depart Calif. Port

2007-05-23T17:32:00.000-06:00

Thousands Watch Whales Depart Calif. Port
Whales Following 2 Tugboats, Officials Say

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Hundreds of people lining the shoreline around the Port of Sacramento Sunday for the most popular show in town -- watching two wayward humpback whales circle the port -- had a nice surprise on Sunday afternoon.

The whales began following two tugboats that are headed out of the port and toward the Pacific Ocean. As of Sunday afternoon, the whales had moved about five miles closer to the ocean.

The California Highway Patrol urged people to stay away from the area where the whales had been circling, but for a sixth day in a row, thousands showed up. About 10,000 people have turned out thus far to watch the whales, officials said.

The CHP recommended if people do drive to Sacramento, they should bring water and a lot of patience due to the big crowds.

Scientists have been planning to resume efforts Tuesday to lure the pair back to the Pacific Ocean by using dozens of boats and noises of pipes banging underwater to corral the whales back toward the ocean.

Lt. Gov. John Garamendi said Friday at a news conference he was naming the whales Delta and Dawn, after the Helen Reddy song.

Garamendi said the name Delta came from the body of water the whales are lost in and Dawn because it brings in a new day.

On Friday, for the second straight day, a marine mammal rescue crew aboard a Coast Guard cutter played recorded sounds of other humpbacks feeding to the mother whale and calf stranded at the Port of Sacramento, where the two hit a dead-end after traveling 90 miles through San Francisco Bay and up the Sacramento River.

The whales were not responding to the sounds, but a similar recording procedure worked in 1985 with a humpback nicknamed Humphrey, which swam in the delta for nearly a month before returning to the Pacific.

However, biologists said the situation facing them near Sacramento is more complicated. It involves a mother and calf, rather than a single whale, that are much farther into the delta than Humphrey was. The injuries add another dimension, as scientists say they do not know how the wounds might affect the whales' behavior.

"It's brand-new territory. It's not like we're applying something we have a lot of experience with in the past. It's essentially an experiment," said Pieter Folkens, a biologist with the Alaska Whale Foundation who was part of the rescue effort. "We really can't have high expectations of a positive outcome. We're certainly doing our best."

Meanwhile, the rescue efforts are taking place inside a very industrial port, where business operations continue.

"The current vessel in port now is the Jin Quan, unloading 31,000 tons of bulk cement. They're scheduled to complete operations on Tuesday at which time they'd like to depart," Mike Luken with the Port of Sacramento said.

There is another ship scheduled to come in that same day, which gives all the more reason why rescuers are hoping their sound experiments will be successful.

"We want to be as careful and as cautionary as possible because we really do not want to stress the mother or calf in any way because they are compromised by the injuries."

Biologists hope to get the whales back into the ocean, where food is more plentiful and the salt water can heal their cuts, apparently inflicted by a boat propeller when the mammals were in the river.

The failure of attempts to use whale sounds could be related to the recordings used. They were of Alaskan whales that might be part of a different pod than the one the mother and calf belong to.

"This is a humpback probably from a different population, probably the Mexico-California population," Folkens said. "So it's kind of like speaking Chinese to somebody from Boston, but at least you recognize that it might be another member of the same species."

The good news on Friday was that biologists did not detect any significant changes in their health from a day earlier, Gulland said.

"Both mother and calf are still swimming and breathing and surfacing at similar rates as they were over the past few days," she said.

Even if the recordings eventually work, scientists said it could take anywhere from several days to several weeks to lure the whales back to the bay.

Party boat to promote water safety

2007-05-18T13:44:00.000-06:00

Party boat to promote water safety
2:29 PM CDT

02:29 PM CDT on Friday, May 18, 2007
By JAY PARSONS / The Dallas Morning News
jparsons@dallasnews.com

LEWISVILLE - Be on the lookout this summer for a new party boat cruising Lewisville Lake. A few 20-somethings will be on board, hollering for other boaters to join them in some games.

Get the right answers in Water Safety Jeopardy and win a keychain or a lifejacket or a coozie - for your soda, of course.

Texas Parks and Wildlife is launching the campaign called “Nobody’s Waterproof: Play it Safe” across area lakes this summer.

The department is using a boat donated by the Britteny Sage Lindt Fund, a nonprofit named after a 15-year-old Marcus High School cheerleader and volleyball player who was fatally run over by a boat in Lewisville Lake last August.

“It’s about saving lives,” said Tim Lindt, Britteny’s dad. “I will never stop. The laws and resources that exist today won’t get it done.”

Britteny, from Highland Village, was one of five people to die in boating accidents on Lewisville Lake last year. Statewide, 47 people died in boating accidents in 2006.

And with Memorial Day weekend expected to draw thousands of boaters to Lewisville Lake and other lakes across Texas, state officials said they are upping patrols and public awareness efforts to prevent more fatal accidents this year.

The message: Don’t drink and drive. And wear a lifejacket.

“We’re not out here to ruin anyone’s time,” game warden Ron VanderRoest said. “We just want them to play it safe. It seems to be a bad tradition that alcohol and boating go hand in hand.”

1995 PURSUIT - Used Boat

2007-05-18T13:41:00.000-06:00

1995 PURSUIT - Used Boat

For More Info : 1995 PURSUIT - Used Boat
Bushnell, Florida

1995 PURSUIT 2470 CENTER CONSOLE
W/ YAMAHA 225 SALT WATER SERIES

Sea Ray - Used Boat

2007-05-15T10:44:00.001-06:00

Sea Ray - Used Boat

For More Info : Sea Ray - Used Boat
Castle Rock, Colorado

A GREAT 26.8 FOOT 1987 SEA RAY SUNDANCER POWERBOAT!!! This boat includes an 8.6 Foot Beam, a 2-Foot Draft, a Gas Engine with 500 Hours, 454 engine, a Fuel Capacity of 100 Gallons, a Cruise Speed of 28 MPH, and a Max Speed of 35 MPH. Features includes Twin Batteries with inverter (Mer cruise IO.), Radar Arch, a Depth Finder, an Anchor, Safety Equipment, THREE AXLE Trailer, a camper and travel top both with new canvas , a Swim platform, and a STEREO SYSTEM. Extra Features include a Front V Berth, Underneath Rear Berth, and Power Trim Tab. Cabin sleeps 4 Adults and includes a Refrigerator, Shower, an Enclosed Head, 30-Gallon Fresh Water Tank, and Carpeting.

Boat engines — the ethanol menace

2007-05-15T10:40:00.000-06:00

Boat engines — the ethanol menace

Ethanol can create goo in fuel systems and have a negative effect on fiberglass tanks.

EAST BAY - Your boat's greatest enemy may be the fuel inside of it. There are a number of reports in the press about the negative effects of ethanol in marine fuel tanks — a concern for boat owners.

The problem began when many areas began banning the use of methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE), replacing it with ethanol blends. This "new" fuel, referred to as E-10 (10 percent ethanol, 90 percent unleaded gasoline), was not designed with the fuel needs of marine engines in mind. Unlike fuel tanks in autos, boat tanks are vented to the air.

Ethanol attracts a significant portion of its weight in water — especially in warm, humid climates. When this occurs, the ethanol and the water separate from the fuel and settle at the bottom of the tank. The result is goo in the fuel systems, clogged filters and stalled engines. If that isn't bad enough, ethanol has negative effects on fiberglass tanks.

What can be done to counter the effects of ethanol? A product like MARINE Formula STA-BIL can protect boat engines by keeping good marine gasoline from going bad, improving the engine's performance, preventing gum and varnish from forming and counteracting many of the effects of ethanol.

Compared to regular STA-BIL, MARINE Formula STA-BIL has double the corrosion inhibitors, preventing corrosion damage to fuel tanks, fuel lines, carburetors and injectors. It's also a complete fuel system cleaner, with five times the cleaning additive to help clean up deposits from fuel lines, carburetors, injectors and intake valves.

MARINE Formula STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer is a good choice for boaters and personal watercraft owners who store their equipment for the winter months. And can be used every day to provide year-round protection against corrosion from ethanol-caused water build-up in gas tanks and fuel lines. Its multi-talented formula even includes a fuel system detergent to keep intake valves and fuel injectors clean for improved engine performance during the boating season.

MARINE Formula STA-BIL ensures quick, easy starts in all two- and four-cycle marine engines — even after months of cold storage. It is also safe to use in all cars, trucks, SUVs, boats, tractors, motor homes, motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, personal watercraft, lawnmowers, snow blowers, tillers, weed trimmers, golf carts, power washers and generators. It stabilizes all gasoline, gas/oil mixtures and ethanol blends. - Courtesy of ARAcontent

Boating Briefs

Sail on the Aurora

Beginning Tuesday, June 19, the schooner Aurora in association with the Ron duPrey Sailing Foundation will be hosting community sails. These will take place every Tuesday through the summer. The vessel will depart from Goat Island Marina, in Newport, from 10 a.m. to noon.

The 101-foot wooden coastal schooner was built in 1947 by Newbert and Wallace, Thomaston, Maine. The former sardine transport vessel turned charter boat calls Newport home. The sails are free to the people of Newport County or $20 for others. Proceeds benefit the foundation. For more information, e-mail to Aurora@newportexperience.com.

History of whaling

The Portsmouth Historical Society is hosting a program, "The History of Whaling in the North Atlantic," on Monday, May 21, at 7:30 p.m.

Dr. Robert Kenney from the University of Rhode Island will talk about the whaling industry's history from the 11th century to today, including its impact on whale populations. Refreshments will be served following the lecture.

The event is free and open to the public. The Portsmouth Historical Society is located at the corner of East Main Road (Route 138) and Union Street.

IN Officials Hope New Attractions will Boost Attendance

2007-05-14T10:51:00.000-06:00

IN Officials Hope New Attractions will Boost Attendance

A new boat ramp, a swimming pool and a horseman's campground are among new attractions to be introduced this summer at three state parks in southern Indiana.

The most long-awaited project is a five-lane boat ramp set to open June 26th at Charlestown State Park. The $2.8 million project is expected to double gate admissions in an area known for heavy recreational boat traffic.

O'Bannon Woods State Park has a new swimming pool that cost $3.4 million.

And Deam Lake State Recreation Area near Borden has a new 80-site horseman's campground that will open in phases.

Officials hope the amenities will attract more visitors to parks and counter the effects of higher prices for gasoline and admission to the parks.

© 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Updated: May 14, 2007, 7:29 am

Solar boat completes oil-free Atlantic crossing

2007-05-10T10:16:00.000-06:00

Solar boat completes oil-free Atlantic crossing

Citing 'liberating journey,' skipper expects shift in ocean travel

Powered by solar panels atop its awning, the "sun21" approaches Manhattan on Tuesday, ending the crossing that made it the first solar-powered boat to navigate the Atlantic.

MSNBC staff and news service reports
Updated: 11:14 a.m. MT May 9, 2007
Five months and more than 7,000 miles later, a Swiss-built solar vessel has completed the first sun-powered crossing of the Atlantic.

Dubbed "sun21," the catamaran reached North Cove Marina in New York City on Tuesday.

The 46-foot boat produced 2,000 kilowatt hours of solar energy during its voyage and "not one drop of oil," the Switzerland-based group transatlantic21, which sponsored the crossing, said in a statement.

"This proves that in our modern society it is indeed possible to travel the world efficiently and still safeguard the environment," said the boat's skipper, Michel Thonney. "This has been a liberating journey and one which I believe will transform the way we approach travel on our oceans, seas and waterways."

The crew left Chipiona, Spain, on Dec. 3 and stopped on the Caribbean island of Martinique before traveling along the U.S. East Coast to New York.

New York was chosen to complete the voyage because it is also the site of a first annual World Clean Energy Awards sponsored by transatlantic21 and two other Swiss groups.

"Unlike other awards programs, the World Clean Energy Awards recognizes innovation in action, as opposed to innovation on the drawing board," transatlantic21 stated. "Sun21 serves as the shining example of clean energy applications in practice."

Dream vacation

2007-05-08T10:11:00.000-06:00

Dream vacation

Couple buys local schooner to sail from Newfoundland to Australia

Rebecca Morgan of New Zealand and Richard Thornton of Australia pose with their newly purchased schooner Shenandoah II in St. John’s Monday. — Photo by Gary Hebbard/The Telegram

ALISHA MORRISSEY
The Telegram

Richard Thornton says a package vacation is not his style.

“The idea is that you want to get away from the time frame and go when the weather is right and go and enjoy sailing,” he says. “(With) a package deal, you got two hours to get there, you’ve got two hours to get back.”

The 34-year-old veteran sailor from Australia and his girlfriend, Rebecca Morgan, 25, of New Zealand, have docked the vessel they bought in Foxtrap in St. John’s. The couple is preparing for the journey of a lifetime — sailing from Newfoundland to Australia.

Despite the sun shining on the wet deck where Thornton is doing a bit of work to get the boat ready for the long trip, he and Morgan are wearing toques and warm thick jackets.

Thornton says his first impressions of St. John’s are that it’s, “very friendly, very cold.”

And although he hasn’t been in Newfoundland long, he’s already decided to take a page from this province’s history book, try to swap salt cod for Jamaican rum when he winds up at the islands.

Neither one has tried salt fish yet, but they are excited to do so.

In fact, according to Morgan, trying new food is what Thornton is most excited about on this trip.

“I love the different foods and different tastes that you get wherever you go,” Thornton says.

“And, you know, I’d just like to see places I haven’t been yet.”

Tiny may be too big a word to describe the belly of the schooner. With seating the whole way around the interior, a one-person bunk lines one side of the “living area” and a clothesline is strung across the ceiling above the solid wood captain’s table on the other side.

A stove the size of a milk crate is tucked in one corner with metal pots on top.

An empty flask of Lamb’s Rum lies inside the top pot — remnants of the night before when some locals stopped by to welcome the couple to St. John’s.

But Morgan says it’s not small. Compared to the last boat in which she sailed around Australia — an 18-footer that a person couldn’t stand up inside — she considers the Shenandoah II to be the lap of luxury.

“We lived on it (the 18-footer) for a little while and it was a lot squishier than this one, so we were like ‘Yes, we can stand up in it,’” she says.

The schooner’s hull is made of wood. It was built in Lunenburg, N.S., and designed to replicate the traditional Nova Scotia schooners.

Morgan, who is a nurse by trade, says the trip will likely take a number of years — with stops long and short in many ports — and while she’s got some jittery nerves, she’s really excited about it. This was not her first adventure; she’s been to the U.S., several of the Pacific isles, all over Australia, Japan, Canada, Singapore and Nepal.

“I’d just pop off, backpack in my hand, wound up at any train station. It’s like midnight, I don’t know where I am, have no map, have no bookings and just go and see what’s there.”

Thornton, too, has seen most of the Eastern world and the United States.

One “new thing” the couple has experienced while in Newfoundland was seeing ice in the water for the first time. The boat was trapped for a few days in Harbour Grace, all the while Thornton and Morgan marvelled at the ice.

The couple bought the schooner from David Murphy of Foxtrap, and asked that he, Roger Doyle and Reg Taylor, be thanked, not only for keeping the boat in such pristine condition, but because they “just really helped us a lot, and invited us for barbeques, and gave us a good deal on everything,” Thornton says.

To contact or sponsor the Shenandoah II, e-mail the couple at

bluehighwayskip@yahoo.com.au

Satellite Radio More Popular Among Boat Owners Than Vehicle Owners

2007-05-08T10:06:00.000-06:00

Satellite Radio More Popular Among Boat Owners Than Vehicle Owners

As advanced technologies in marine audio systems become increasingly popular, new-boat owners are more likely to subscribe to satellite radio than new-vehicle owners, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Marine Audio Report released yesterday.

The report measures owner satisfaction with the audio systems supplied in their new boats in seven segments: fiberglass bass boat; pontoon; coastal fishing (17 ft. to 28 ft.); ski/wakeboard; small runabout (16 ft. to 19 ft.); large runabout (20 ft. to 29 ft.); and express cruisers (24 ft. to 33 ft.). Six areas are examined to measure overall satisfaction: sound clarity; location of speakers; ability to hear the stereo at cruising speed; effectiveness of CD anti-skip mechanism; radio reception; and ease of using the controls.

While 28 percent of new-boat owners who have a marine audio system report having satellite radio, only 19 percent of new-vehicle owners report having the feature (according to the J.D. Power 2006 Emerging Technologies Study). The percentage of boat owners with satellite radio playing capabilities has increased 33 percent from the 2006 study. Owners with MP3 capabilities have also increased from 3 percent in 2006 to 7 percent in 2007. MP3 players are particularly popular among owners in the ski/wakeboard boat segment.

"In general, ski/wakeboard boats, express cruisers and large runabouts tend to have more technologically advanced sound systems than other boats on the market," said Todd Markusic, senior director of the Powersports practice at J.D. Power. "Among express cruisers, 65 percent of owners who have a marine audio system report having satellite radio, and large runabout and ski/wakeboard owners follow closely with 42 percent and 31 percent, respectively. This feature will more than likely continue to grow in popularity among boat owners."

Among areas examined to determine overall sound system satisfaction, the sound clarity, location of speakers and ability to hear the stereo at cruising speed have the highest impact on boat owner satisfaction. The ability to hear the stereo at cruising speed is particularly important to owners, yet satisfaction is significantly lower than in all other areas examined in the report, indicating that this is an area where owner needs are not being met.

"It is definitely a major challenge for boat manufacturers to design an audio system that is easy to hear while cruising at 30 mph or more in an open- air environment," said Markusic. "However, using high-quality components and well-placed speakers can definitely enhance the listening experience when the boat is operating."

Among marine audio manufacturers, Clarion, Kenwood and Sony perform particularly well in satisfying new-boat owners. These companies receive particularly high ratings from owners in the ski/wakeboard segment, which not only has the most high-end systems, but also achieves the highest sound system satisfaction across all segments.

Other manufacturers included in the report are: Aquatronics, Audiovox, JBL, Jensen, JVC, Panasonic, Pioneer and Sea Worthy.

The report also finds that 90 percent of bass boat owners and 50 percent of coastal fishing owners do not have a marine audio system. Conversely, nearly all large runabout and express cruiser owners report owning a sound system.

The 2007 Marine Audio Report is derived from the J.D. Power 2007 Boat Competitive Information Study, which was released in early February. The 2007 Boat Competitive Information Study is based on responses from 12,140 owners who registered a new boat between June 2005 and May 2006.

Must Have Boating Equipment

2007-05-04T15:05:00.000-06:00

Must Have Boating Equipment

Don't Leave the Dock Without It!

With the boating season just around the corner for many of us and already here for other folks around the country, it’s time to make sure your boat is really ready for a great season of boating fun. After polishing your hull , applying a new coat of bottom paint and getting the engine up and running, it’s a good time to check all your other equipment as well.

With that in mind, here is a list of equipment that is required on board motorized vessels in U.S. waters. However, safety equipment requirements vary from country to country, so boaters need check the requirements of the country where they plan to do their boating. All that being said, any “good” skipper, anywhere, will have the following equipment/items on board his boat anyway.

• Owner’s/ Ship’s Documents:

Carry either State registration or documentation papers.
Since 9-11, the U.S. Coast Guard is also going to ask you to produce a pictured identification card, such as a driver’s license.

• PFDs:

PFDs (Personal Floatation Devices) are life jackets and you must have one for every person on board and they MUST fit properly to be effective. An adult sized life jacket for a child is NOT acceptable. An improper fitting child’s life jacket may end up drowning the child instead of saving its life!

• Throwable Flotation Device:

An example of a throwable flotation device would be a life ring or a flotation cushion, one of those with the two straps, etc. All vessels 16 ft. and over must have one or more of these aboard.

• Fire Extinguisher:

A Coast Guard approved fire extinguisher must be aboard any boat that has an engine in an enclosed space or a fuel tank that is in a compartment. The needle in the gage on the extinguisher must be pointing to the green area of the dial. The larger the boat, the more fire extinguishers/fire suppression systems you are required to have.

• Visual Distress Signals:

Visual distress signals are required for both day and nighttime sightings. Distress signals, such as red flares, universal distress flags, orange smoke, etc., must be aboard all powerboats operating in federally controlled waters. Also remember, these devices must be current, i.e. not past the expiration date which is printed on each one.

• Proper Ventilation:

All gasoline powerboats with an inboard engine, permanently installed fuel tanks and an enclosed bilge area, must be properly ventilated. Also, all gasoline powerboats built after 1 August 1980 must have a working bilge blower with a reminder sign (to run the blower) located near the ignition switch.

• Flame Arrestor:

All gasoline powered boats (except outboards) must have a Coast Guard approved backfire, flame arrestor attached to each carburetor or throttle body. Remember, they must not be covered with grease or oil. Therefore, cleaning your flame arrestor every spring is a must!

• Sound Making Device:

All vessels operating in federally controlled waters must have a working horn or whistle aboard. For a small boat, a hand-held whistle will suffice. For vessels less than 65.6 ft. long, the whistle or horn must be capable of producing a blast of 4 seconds and be audible for at least ½ mile.

• Navigation Lights:

All power vessels, that are allowed to operate after sunset, must have a working set of navigation lights consisting of:
* A Green Light – showing from dead-ahead to 112.5 degrees down the starboard (right) side of your boat.
* A Red Light – showing from dead-ahead to 112.5 degrees down the port (left) side of your boat.
* A White Masthead Light - showing through the entire 225 degrees covered by both the Green and the Red lights combined.
* A White Stern Light - that shows from dead-astern to 67.5 degrees on both sides of the stern (a total area of 135 degrees).
* Add all these numbers together (starboard, port & stern or masthead & stern) and they add up to 360 degrees of visible light identifying your boat.

That's it; the list of equipment that you MUST have aboard your vessel. Don't leave the dock without it. When boarded for a law enforcement safety inspection, failure to produce any of this equipment could result in a big fine and/or termination of your voyage. Make sure you have all this aboard and in good working condition so that you can pass a safety inspection at any time. This list is of required items, but in another article, I discuss optional equipment that any responsible skipper should consider having on board his boat.

So, are we ready to launch?

Boating Equipment

2007-05-04T14:59:00.000-06:00

Boating Equipment

Equipment That Every Boat Needs

• Dock Lines:
According to nationwide insurance statistics, most of the damage claims filed by boat owners are for damage done to their boats when they are tied to the dock. Using the wrong size and/or type of mooring lines is inviting trouble. The lack of knowledge about the proper way to use those dock lines greatly increases your chances for boat damage. When rough stormy weather occurs or the wake from other boats in the marina takes place, you are much more likely to sustain damage to your boat if it's not correctly tied up.

• Anchors and Anchor Lines:

Anchors aren't just for picnics or for spending the night at anchor.
An anchor is an important piece of safety equipment that could stop your boat from being driven ashore if your engine fails. Take a look at Anchors and Ground Tackle and practice the important anchoring procedures. Remember, having the correct amount of anchor line deployed when you anchor will determine whether or not your anchor holds. Your life just could depend on it!

• VHF Marine Radio:

VHF means Very High Frequency. If you plan to take your boat out on a large body of water, you should have a VHF radio aboard, either mounted or a hand held model. Take a look at The Marine VHF Radiotelephone for tips on the VHF radio and how to use it for your safety.

• Chart and Compass:

If you're going to go more than 100 yards from the shore, you SHOULD have (if you're a prudent skipper) a good magnetic compass installed. Did you know that your compass rarely points to true North? For safety sake, yours, and your crew, you should have on board, a current chart of the area where you are planning to cruise.

• Bilge Pump:

I love the water, but not when it's in the bilge of my boat! Every boat, without exception, should have some sort of dewatering device aboard. Dewatering devices can range from a simple bucket to a highly sophisticated system of electric pumps. Whatever works for your boat!

• Fenders:

Fenders are those round things that hang over the side of a boat to protect it from damage by other boats or docks. Landlubbers and boating "Newbies" may call them "bumpers", but they really are called "fenders". Remember, in order for fenders to protect your investment (boat), they must be large enough to do the job. Don't put 8" fenders on a 50' boat.

• Tool Kit:

You've heard of "Murphy's Law' right? Murphy was an optimist! Be sure to have a decent set of mechanics tools aboard should you have to make some unexpected repairs. Also, have some basic spare parts with you. Things like extra filters, drive belts, hoses, etc. can make all the difference between completing an enjoyable cruise and spending hours (days) waiting for a busy mechanic to fix your problem.

• Boat Hook:

Never, never, never stick a hand or a leg over the side of a moving boat to "help' in a docking or undocking situation. That's what a boat hook is for. Boat hooks can be repaired or replaced. The same can't always be said for arms, hands and legs.

• Good Flashlight:

Take my word for it, sooner or later you're really going to need one and when you do, you'll want one handy. Also, I suggest a secret stash of fresh batteries somewhere onboard. With nine grandchildren, my flashlights always seem to have dead batteries.

• First Aid Kit:

Bumps, bruises and cuts are pretty common occurrences when participating in water sports such as fishing, skiing, wakeboarding, etc. Therefore, a good first-aid kit should be a "Must Have Aboard" item.

• Sun Screen:

When it is sunny, you get a double dose of UV rays, both directly from the sun and indirectly from the reflection off the water. A water resistant sun screen of SPF 30 or more for skin protection should be a must have.

• Drinking Water:

I'm talking only pure water here; beer and soda don't count. If you're going to be out on the water for more than an hour or so, you should have at least a quart of water on board for each person aboard.
So, that's it; a short list of optional equipment. Everyone will probably have additional suggestions for "must have" items that a prudent skipper should have aboard. Plus, don't forget to take along all the mandatory equipment that the law requires. Well, it seems as if you're pretty well equipped now, so go enjoy your boating and remember, "Let's be safe out there"!

Is It New, Used or Used-up?

2007-05-04T14:52:00.000-06:00

Is It New, Used or Used-up?

Your first decision when buying a boat is to decide what type of boat will best suit the way you plan to use it. The second decision is whether to look for a new or used boat.

Buying a new boat eliminates many problems. The engine and hull will be under warrantee, so any ugly surprises will, or should be, the problem of the manufacturer. There are, however, negative points to buying new. New boats have a very steep initial depreciation. An old joke goes this way: Drive your new boat around the lake once and it's no longer worth what you still owe on it. New boats come with little or no equipment, all of which must be purchased and installed. Finally, for the same amount of money that you might spend on a used boat, a new boat will have to either be smaller, or made by a company that keeps the cost down by cutting corners.

If at this point you're thinking "Maybe I should look at a used boat that suits my needs and gets more bang for the buck", here are some tips on what to look for.

Who built the boat? Is the company still in business? What is the company's reputation? Can they be contacted for information and/or replacement parts?

Has the boat been cared for or abused? It's really pretty easy to tell.

Check out an obvious part of the boat, say, the upholstery. If it's in bad shape, odds are that the owner hasn't taken proper care of the engine, the drive unit, the wiring, the hull, etc., etc., etc. Generally, an owner either takes good care of the entire boat (not just parts or systems) or he or she doesn't.

Is the boat for sale because the owner is moving up to a larger boat? This would indicate to me that the seller is really into boating and has probably taken good care of the boat. On the other hand, if the boat is a bank repossession, it may have been owned and operated by an irresponsible person who did little, if any, maintenance or upkeep.

Does the boat have all the equipment that I need? If so, is it already installed and does it all work properly?

Does the boat have a maintenance log? It should have one which lists all of its oil changes, tune-ups and repairs.

Was the boat used extensively for fishing? Trolling at dead slow speed day after day is very hard on both the engine and the drive system.

You may have noticed that I haven't mentioned the age of the boat. I feel that the boat's age is not nearly as important as the quality of the boat's construction, how well it was maintained and how it was normally used!

Before you buy any used boat, have it surveyed and appraised by a knowledgeable professional. This will either buy you peace of mind, or keep you from making a serious mistake.

Keep this sobering thought in mind: You've found what you think is the perfect boat, you can afford it and you're convinced you're going to love that boat. At the very same moment, the person selling the boat is equally convinced that getting rid of it is going to make their life a whole lot better!

Finally, it has been my experience that, after the first few years, a well-built, well-maintained boat does not depreciate in value very much. As a matter of fact, some older production boats (Bertram, for instance) and custom boats (such as Rybovich), are now selling for more money than they originally sold for some thirty-plus years ago.

Happy hunting on your quest for the perfect boat!

How To Find The Perfect Boat

2007-05-04T14:45:00.000-06:00

How To Find The Perfect Boat

Questions to Ask When Shopping For a Boat

With the start of what I call the boat buying season (boat shows and the approach of spring), many of us are getting the itch to seek out the "perfect boat" that will make the new owner and every member of his or her family happy. Well, good luck!

Before you start looking for a boat, there are some questions you really need to ask yourself, the first mate and the crew.

What type or style of boat will be best suited for your planned use?

I saw an advertisement for a boat that stated it was built "without compromise." This statement flies in the face of the fact that all boats have to make some compromises. Many factors such as compromising between speed and sea keeping ability, interior space and stability, weight and strength - and on and on - will never be ideal.

A boat that is designed primarily for wake-boarding is not going to be suitable for cruising. A bass boat is probably not going to be much fun for a day on the water with the wife and three little kids. And so it goes. Decide what your primary use of the boat is going to be.

• Where will you do most of your boating?

Will most of your boating be on the open seas, costal waters, well protected small lakes or in a river? A houseboat or a pontoon boat will be great in protected waters, but just awful, even dangerous, in the open sea or in exposed coastal water areas.

Boats manufactured in European Union Countries must carry a plate, attached to the hull, that states exactly where that boat can be safely operated. I, for one, would like to see that happen on this side of the Big Pond as well. Take a look at my article on stability to learn more about those conditions that make for the safe operation of a boat. A boat that’s properly designed to meet the conditions that you will most likely to be facing is an absolute must if you and your crew are going to enjoy the time you spend on the water.

• How large a boat do you need?

How much size will you need in order to be able to do all of the things that you want to do? All boats appear to be very large when they are sitting in the showroom. Believe me, they all shrink drastically when you put them in the water. Make sure the boat that you buy has enough capacity to carry the entire crew, your water toys and all of the other gear and equipment that you will be using. I seldom see a boat for sale because it's too large, but I do see a lot of boats for sale because the owner is looking for a bigger boat. Boat size, along with design, material and construction are the factors that determine how seaworthy a vessel will be.

• How much will it cost to maintain the boat?

Beyond the initial cost of the boat, you‘ve got to consider the cost of upkeep, operating it (fuel,supplies, etc.), maintenance (parts and repairs), cost of dockage and the cost of storage. Taking classes in engine maintenance, marine electronics and the general care and feeding of your new boat is a must in my opinion. Otherwise, you had better be wealthy enough to pay a mechanic or repairman $70 or more per hour to maintain and fix things for you. Some boaters claim that the word BOAT really stands for Bring On Another Thousand!

• Get advice from other boaters.

Get as much advice as possible from other knowledgeable boaters about brands, types, engines, layouts, etc. of boats that interest you. I’ve never met a boater that doesn’t love talking about boats. If you can get the dealer to supply you with the names of several people who already own one of the boats that you are interested in buying, so much the better. Also, you can check the United States Coast Guard’s INFOLINE (1-800-368-5647) to see if there have been any customer complaints or recalls on the brand you are considering.

• Beware of a used boat.

If you are looking at a used boat and the condition of the gel coat, the upholstery and the hardware is not very good or not what it should be, don’t let the seller try to convince you that regardless of the exterior, the engine and the drive system have been maintained in pristine condition. It has been my experience that if the boat is fouled up on the outside, it’s probably worse on the inside.

Fishing: The perfect fishing craft

2007-05-04T14:42:00.000-06:00

Fishing: The perfect fishing craft
Bill Thompson

— Necessity being the mother of invention, it is a good bet the first guy ever to lash a few logs together for a raft was trying to get out to where the fish were. It was the second guy, the one that hollowed out the center of a log to make the first canoe, who really started the ball rolling in the right direction. Ever since these humble beginnings men have been searching for the perfect fishing vessel.

Like everything else, we have made great technical advances in both material and design in the quest for the perfect fishing boat. Today’s modern bass boat and saltwater sport fishing boats are representative of these advances. Constructed of high-tech plastics, powered by powerful motors and fitted with electronic devices, they are the epitome of the art. However, in my opinion, that fellow with the hollowed out log had the right idea.

After another few thousand years or so another bright fellow took the same principal as the log design and came up with the birch bark canoe. I am guessing, but he was probably inspired by his wife who was already making cooking utensils out of the stuff. One day he no doubt dropped one of her birch bark bowls into the lake and discovered that it floated. After several disastrous attempts she probably showed him the correct way to stitch and seal the bark. Later on she gave him the idea for ribs and gunnels.

Another thousand years went by when, what we now refer to as Euro-Americans, showed up and began to make some changes of their own to the canoe. Birch bark was replaced by canvas and eventually by fiberglass and aluminum. Around the turn of the last century some of these guys went through some kind of revolution of thought and made some wonderful changes to the basic canoe and created some of the most beautiful fishing craft ever made.

Right after the Civil War, Americans found they had some free time on their hands and started to look into leisure activities to take up the slack. For a number of years prior to the Civil War, Americans, at least in the east, had been leaving the farm and flocking to the cities to participate in the great industrial revolution of the time. Just about the time everybody got comfortable living in the cities, a bunch of different writers and thinkers of the day started a “back to the woods” movement.

Apparently cities like New York and Boston, much like they are today, were pretty foul places to live. These scholars proposed that the antidote to overwork, stress and the unhealthy conditions of the cities was a return to nature. The rugged outdoor life was just the thing to keep one healthy, fit and keen of mind. As a result of their teaching hunting, fishing, camping and canoeing became very popular with the masses.

One writer who was influential in this movement was George W. Sears or, as he was better known, Nessmuk. Mr. Nessmuk spent a great deal of time prowling around the Adirondacks in upstate New York. In his quest for the perfect boat he had a fellow by the name of J. Henry Rushton make him a small lightweight canoe-like boat. The boat was a one-man affair and extremely lightweight in order to easily portage from one Adirondack lake to another.

Rushton was already engaged in making a hybrid wooden canoe that became known as the Adirondack. With the help of the publicity garnered from Nessmuk’s book "Woodcraft and Camping," there was a demand for these boats from guides and the many tourists that were heading into the woods. To be fair, at about the same time Maine Guides were also experimenting with the same basic design and these craft would become the famous Rangeley Boat.

It is said that Rushton drew inspiration from both the Native American canoe and the St. Lawrence skiff. Rushton had traveled extensively in Canada and was familiar with these boats. A typical Adirondack boat is double-ended like a canoe and is made from wood planking usually applied in a lapstrake style. The boats can be rowed from the center of the boat or from the stern. They are light enough that they can easily be carried by means of a yoke on the shoulders of one man.

The other evening I had the great pleasure of fishing from one of these boats. We had invited a friend to fish with us on a local pond and he said that he would bring his boat. The boat turned out to be an Adirondack Guide boat built in 1929 for this gentleman’s grandfather. It was said that local Adirondack guides guided all summer and built boats all winter. Most of these craft were 16 feet in length, but this one was a scaled-down version of 13 feet. The craftsmanship was superb. To my way of thinking there is nothing prettier than a wooden boat.

My friend rowed from the stern and we glided effortlessly across the water. It was a bit tricky getting in but once underway it was a dream. It was easy to imagine a more gentler time when wooden boats ruled and the outboard had yet to be invented. It was almost a shame we fished with graphite rods; a bamboo rod would have been more appropriate. In a way, these boats catch the essence of what fly fishing is all about. Fly fishing is sometimes called the “quiet sport.” It was, after all, Izaak Walton who said, “Study to be quiet." My friend said to me, “you relax in a boat like this,” and it is true.

The introduction of the outboard motor sure made it a lot easier to get around, but in the long run I am not sure it made fishing any more fun; and in the end it may even have taken something away. Old Nessmuk was right. We do need to escape from the world we have created and return to nature. Wooden boats and fly fishing have a way of making the trip more fun.
See you on the river.

Used Boat Buying Checklist

2007-05-01T15:18:00.000-06:00

For general boat buying tips see Boat Buying Guide - Part I. There you'll find tips on deciding on the purpose of your boat and the body of water you'll be using, costs, maintenance and warranty issues, dealer reputation, word of mouth, boat shows, NMMA certification, propeller type, time of year to buy a boat, and more.
Use the following checklist when purchasing a used boat.

USED BOAT BUYING CHECKLIST

Test Drive
You wouldn't buy a car without test driving it first, would you? Same holds true with a boat, even more so than a car. Boats are finicky animals. They tend to require more attention and maintenance than cars. When you test drive the boat pay close attention to the following things while underway:

- Vibration
If it vibrates it could mean a variety of things like a bent propeller. A vibrating boat makes a noisy boat.
Functioning Trim
If you're looking at an inboard/outboard boat check to make sure the trim works, which allows the motor to move from the down position to the angled position.

- Response
Rapidly, but carefully, test the steering from one direction to another to see how long it takes the boat to respond.

- Planing
Check to see how long it takes the boat to plane after take off.

- Shifting
Does the boat slip smoothly into gear, or does it jump?

- Reverse
Make sure the boat works in reverse. You never know how important this is until you have to dock.

- Gauges and Instruments
Check the temperature, RPM, and speedometer for proper function.

- Bilge
Make sure it is doing it's job. If your test ride is not long enough to tell, when you get back to the dock run some water in the engine hole with a water hose until the bilge kicks in.

It's a good idea to take along several people on the test drive. Added weight in a boat can affect it's performance and quickness.

HOURS

Check to see how many hours are on a boat. You measure a car's use by miles and a boat's use by hours. If a boat has more than 500 hours you can expect to pay some money in upgrades and maintenance.

CHECK FOR FLOOR ROT

Wood and water don't mix, especially in the floor of a boat. Carefully inspect the floor for soft spots, which indicate rot. Don't be afraid to get on your hands and knees and smell for floor for mildew.

MAINTENANCE

Ask for a maintenance history on the boat. Find out what major repairs have been made to the boat. If a lot of work has been done to the boat, chances are there will be lots to come, which translates into dollars. Ask if the boat is still under warranty. Also, ask who the boat owner used for repairs and make a point to talk to them.

MARINE SURVEY

It's a good idea to have a qualified marine mechanic thoroughly inspect the boat before purchasing it. To find a marine surveyor call either the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors - SAMS. If you are going to do it yourself check the spark arrestors and plugs, alternator, belts, hoses, strainer, blower, shift cables, engine alignment, etc. Analyze the oil and make sure it is not cloudy or gritty Cloudy oil can mean the engine block is cracked.

HULL CONDITION

Take a walk around the boat and inspect the hull and make sure it is in good condition. Feel free to tap on the hull all the way around and make sure the hull is consistently solid. Mismatched paint is a sign the boat has been in an accident. Also check for gel-coat blisters and dry rot.

PROPELLER

Check the prop for warping, cracks, or nicks. Any of these things can throw off the performance of the boat.

STORAGE

How has the boat been stored while not in use? Was is stored outside and exposed to the sun and weather? Or was it kept in protected dry storage?

UPHOLSTERY

Depending on how the boat was stored can affect how the upholstery has held up over the years. Check for ripped seams and color fading. Also check the boat cover if there is one.

EXTRAS

It's nice if the owner will sell the boat with a few extras which are probably already on the boat. In my opinion, a depth finder is crucial. You don't want the boat to run aground, much less let your skier run aground. In most states a marine radio is required by law. A stereo is a nice thing to have so you can listen to tunes. Also see if the boat owner will throw in some life jackets and an anchor. And if you are a lucky slalom skier they may throw in a speed control device.

TRAILER

If a trailer comes with the boat you want to buy check the trailer thoroughly. They are not cheap to replace.

N.A.D.A. BOAT APPRAISAL GUIDE

Locate the boat in the N.A.D.A. Guide to find out the price value range for the model and year. Remember, if the boat is priced at the low end or lower than the low end it's likely the boat's had a history of problems and there is a reason the owner wants to get rid of the boat.

Boat Buying Guide - Part II

2007-05-01T15:16:00.000-06:00

WARRANTIES

Extremely important. No matter how new your boat is, warranties can vary tremendously. This is an area in which you do lots of comparison shopping. If purchasing a new boat be sure to go with a boat manufacturer that stands firmly behind their product and is going to rise to the occasion when things go wrong. Boatbuying.com outlines things to consider when dealing with warranties.

NMMA CERTIFIED

Make sure the boat is certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association. The NMMA standards exceed the basic regulations set by the U.S. Coast Guard.

DEALER REPUTATION

Extremely important. This could make or break your boating experience. Make sure their service department is reputable and have quick turn around on repairs.
To find a dealership in your area see the Dealerships / Sales links list.

WORD OF MOUTH

Find other people who own or have previously owned the brand or model of the boat you are considering purchasing. They can shed light on areas you may have never considered. Other boat owners will tell you the truth.

BOATING SAFETY

Take a safe boating course BEFORE you hit the water. The Water and Boating Safety Resources links page is an excellent source of boating courses and has great links to start instilling boat and water safety in your mind. Make sure that everyone who will be operating or just riding in the boat takes a safety course as well. Don't over look knowing the proper way to tow a skier and how to retrieve a downed skier safely. Also see Drivers Corner, Boating Tips, and the article, "How Fast Should You Go?" which explains boat speeds for different boat towed sports.

PROPELLER TYPE

Three or four blade? Four blades are more expensive, however they have a quicker hole shot and has a smoother spin. Three blades allow a little more top end speed. Prop manufacturers.

ATTEND A BOAT SHOW

Boat shows are a great place to start your boat shopping. For starters, there will be lots of manufacturers under the same roof, saving you travel time to multiple dealerships. Dealers often offer boat show discounts. Popular times of the year for boat shows are in the beginning of the year and the fall. To find a boat show in your area see the Boat Shows links list.

TIME OF YEAR TO BUY A BOAT

Buying at the beginning of the year will allow you to have your pick of the litter. You'll get more choices with colors, features, and special orders. Buy in the spring when everyone is getting boat fever and expect to pay more for your boat. Larger demand, larger price tag. Buy in the fall or later and you'll get lower prices when dealers are looking to unload boats before the new models hit the showroom.

Boat Buying Guide - Part I

2007-05-01T15:14:00.000-06:00

Boat Buying Guide - Part I

- Avoid disappointment and do your homework.

Once you fall in love with power boating there's no turning back. It's in your blood forever. Shopping for a new boat can be challenging. So many decisions to be made and so many things to consider. It's often a bigger decision than buying a car, which is essentially a means of transportation to get you from point A to point B.

A boat is usually a multipurpose investment that can be used for waterskiing, wakeboarding, barefooting, tubing, jumping, fishing, riding to your favorite hangout, weekend getaways, and more. And each of these events sometime require different qualities in a boat to get the best performance.

Before you take the boat buying plunge let me clue you in on two of the most widely spoken quotes in the boating world. "The happiest day of a boat owner's life is the day they buy the boat and the day they sell the boat" and "Boats are nothing more than holes in the water, into which you throw money."

Sounds so gloomy, doesn't it? It doesn't have to be. That's why it is so crucial for you to do your homework prior to purchasing a boat. Most people who are about to buy a boat have visions of nonstop fun on the water, but the reality is boats can be lots of work and require extreme care and regular maintenance in order for that fun on the water to be long lasting.

If you're still up to the challenge and responsibility of being a boat owner, use following checklist to go by when purchasing a boat.

BOAT BUYING CHECKLIST

PURPOSE OF THE BOAT

Decide what your main purpose(s) for the boat will be. Do you want it strictly for tournament waterskiing or strictly for recreational wakeboarding? Or do you have kids that like to do a little bit of everything behind the boat? Will it mainly be a fishing boat that you'll occasionally want to water-ski behind? These factors will determine your engine type (inboard, inboard/outboard, or outboard). Boats.com explains some tips in its article, "Choose the right type of boat for your needs."

BODY OF WATER YOU'LL BE USING

Larger, more wide open bodies of water require bigger boats, or those with V-drives or inboard/outboard engines. Larger boats handle rough water better than smaller boats. Direct drive boats are good for smaller lakes that generally have smooth water. Serious slalom skiers usually prefer direct drives and serious wakeboarders prefer V-drives. If your body of water is large and often chops up a bow-rider may not be the best choice. You don't want to run the risk of water coming in over an open bow.

COSTS

How much can you afford? Saving money on a purchase up front can cost you in the long run. Be sure to buy quality. Remember to take into consideration the following costs beyond the actual price of the boat and your monthly payments: insurance, boat and trailer registration fees, taxes, fuel, docking/mooring fees, storage, and equipment such as lifevests, fire extinguishers, flares, marine radio, anchor, dock lines, and a trailer if needed. When the boat is not in use you'll want to give it proper storage. Boats.com explains storage options in its article, "Learn the best way to store your boat."
Don't over look maintenance and repair costs to the boat. This can be the most discouraging factor to a boat owner. On average these annual costs averages around $50 per foot (boat length), however they can be significantly higher, depending on if you do the work yourself, or you let a marina do the work for you. This is not an area in which you want to skimp. Good maintenance habits can add years to your boat and save you many pounding headaches.

Also consider these optional items, depending on your water sports preferences: water skis, wakeboards, wet suits, towables (tubes), tow ropes and gloves, weight system for wakeboarding, pylon, boom, tower, etc.

http://waterski.about.com/od/boats/a/buying_a_boat.htm

Sailboat Buying Guide

2007-04-30T18:02:00.000-06:00

Sailboat Buying Guide

1. Intro
2. Location
3. Brokers
4. Bigger can be better, but..
5. Pedigree Counts
6. Turning a Profit
7. Used? New? Custom? In-Between?
8. International Buying

- First Time Boat Buyer Tips
- Boat Buying Guide I
- Boat Buying Guide II

- How to find a perfect boat?
- Is It New, Used or Used-up?

- Boating Equipment that every boat needs
- Must Have Boating Equipments

Sailboat Buying Guide - International Buying

2007-04-30T18:01:00.001-06:00

Sailboat Buying Guide - International Buying
Sara Clemence

International Buying

Buying a boat overseas presents its own problems, but when you fall in love with a boat, it can be worth it.

There are special considerations to take into account if you are buying a boat abroad, especially if you plan to hire it out for charter.

A foreign-built boat that is registered in the United States cannot legally be chartered with a crew, says Bob Leslie of Northrop and Johnson. It can be hired out for "demise charter"--without a crew--and the difference is sometimes just a question of paperwork. If you're going to charter a boat in the U.S, say the experts, it's far simpler to buy a hull built domestically.

Boats bought in Europe may be subject to local taxes, says Leslie. A boat purchased abroad is also subject to import taxes (1.8% of the cost of a new boat or the appraised value of a used boat). You can bring a boat over and get a six-month renewable cruising permit, but if you plan to keep it in the U.S. permanently or sell it, you have to register it and pay the tax.

Sailboat Buying Guide

1. Intro
2. Location
3. Brokers
4. Bigger can be better, but..
5. Pedigree Counts
6. Turning a Profit
7. Used? New? Custom? In-Between?
8. International Buying

Sailboat Buying Guide - Used? New? Custom? In-Between?

2007-04-30T18:00:00.001-06:00

Sailboat Buying Guide - Used? New? Custom? In-Between?

Sara Clemence

Used? New? Custom? In-Between?

Shop around at the Annapolis Sailboat Show.

When you buy a new boat "off the rack," you may be able to choose the color and a few of the features, but most of the details will have been decided by the manufacturer. On the other side of the boat-buying spectrum is a vessel built entirely from scratch to your specifications: "It's a blank piece of paper, and the sky's the limit," says Gibbons-Neff of Sparkman and Stephens.

"What kinds of tolerance do you have for decision making?" asks Hinckley's Bennett. If the answer is "none," then a custom-built yacht it not for you, unless you're willing to hire a manager to oversee the project.

The middle option is the semi-custom boat, which has an off-the-rack hull but fittings designed to your specifications. You can choose the sail plan, the fittings and the layout of the boat. (Do you want your stateroom to be in the center of the boat or the stern?)

A custom boat can take two years or more to build, but a previously owned boat--once you find the one you want--can be delivered immediately. You might not be getting the latest equipment, but it can be replaced. A used boat with a beautiful exterior and aging parts can be refitted, though at a cost. And a used boat has already proven its ability to weather the water.

It may not make sense to set your heart on a new, used or custom boat at the start of the decision-making process. Looking at used boats on the market may steer you towards a custom-built boat.

To get a feel for different looks and layouts, hit the boats shows that are held around the country year-round. The Annapolis Sailboat Show, the largest in the U.S., takes place in October; Strictly Sail Chicago is at the end of January, and Pacific Sail Expo is in April.

Sailboat Buying Guide

1. Intro
2. Location
3. Brokers
4. Bigger can be better, but..
5. Pedigree Counts
6. Turning a Profit
7. Used? New? Custom? In-Between?
8. International Buying

Sailboat Buying Guide - Turning A Profit

2007-04-30T17:59:00.001-06:00

Sailboat Buying Guide - Turning A Profit
Sara Clemence

Turning A Profit

Top-quality boats not only look terrific, they also hold their value better.

While some experts say that you should never expect to profit on the sale of a boat, others believe that with the proper maintenance, a boat can retain or increase its value.

"Very high-quality boats hold their values and don't depreciate much," says Northrop and Johnson's Bob Leslie. While smaller medium- and lower-quality boats do depreciate, the drop in value is not as dramatic as with a car, taking place mostly over the first two or three years. The percentage of depreciation varies widely from boat to boat.

A boat's condition can change its value by as much as 30%. "As you're using the boat, you're consuming it," Leslie says. "You're wearing out the sails, the pumps."

"If a boat is kept in excellent condition and upgraded constantly, there's a good chance it will hold its value or be worth even more than [the owner] paid," Leslie says. "But the owner has to have a very high commitment to maintaining the boat."

Nevertheless, a boat is still a precarious investment. As with art, the main return on your money, if all goes as planned, will be in pleasure.

"The only reason to buy a boat is therapy," says Mitchell Gibbons-Neff of Sparkman & Stephens. "When you go to bed at night, instead of thinking about the hassles in your day, you think about where you're going to go next on your boat."

Sailboat Buying Guide

1. Intro
2. Location
3. Brokers
4. Bigger can be better, but..
5. Pedigree Counts
6. Turning a Profit
7. Used? New? Custom? In-Between?
8. International Buying

Sailboat Buying Guide - Pedigree Counts

2007-04-30T17:57:00.000-06:00

Sailboat Buying Guide - Pedigree Counts
Sara Clemence

Pedigree Counts

The classic Lightning, one of the great day sailers of all time.

Years ago, the choice of boat builder was extremely important. "You had some lousy boat builders," says Jacques Mac Donald, agent for Mac Donald Yacht Brokerage in San Diego, Calif. "Today, all manufacturers are paying much more attention to the way they build their boats."

But a boat's origins still matter. A top naval architect and builder will not only give you a better boat. "Names influence the value of a boat," says Gibbons-Neff of Sparkman & Stephens. "It's like a Mercedes is better than a Ford." A boat designed by a big-name architect will often hold its price better, even though the design makes up only 4% to 10% of the original cost of a boat. Still, warns Bob Leslie of blue-chip yacht brokers Northrop and Johnson, a good builder can turn out a bad boat if the buyer wants to cut corners on the construction.

If you're having a boat made to your specifications, you want to deal with a boat-building or design company that has and will be around in the long term, in case there is ever a problem. "You don't want the first boat ever produced by a company," says Phil Bennett of Hinckley, which has been building ships since 1928. "The number of small builders that literally produce a couple of boats and then go bankrupt is tremendous."

Sparkman & Stephens, which has been designing boats for 70 years, has created everything from military boats and classic day sailers such as the Lightning and Blue Jay, to America's Cup defenders and multimillion-dollar pleasure sailboats.

Equally impressive is the record of Farr Yacht Design in Annapolis, Md., which has planned more than two dozen boats for the Volvo Ocean Race--formerly known as the Whitbread Round-the World Race.

Ron Holland, formerly with Sparkman & Stephens, is particularly known for big boats. He designed the largest single-masted boat ever, the 245-foot Mirabella V, which is currently under construction.

The Hinckley Company, based in Maine, is one of the premiere builders of semi-custom boats. Their classic, elegant sailing yachts are built with lavish attention to details.

Finnish company Nautor Swan builds luxury sailing yachts, many of which are designed by Sparkman & Stephens, German Frers and Ron Holland. Nautor also owns U.K.-based Camper and Nicholsons, which specializes in refittings and restorations.

http://www.forbes.com/2002/07/24/0724sport_5.html

Sailboat Buying Guide

1. Intro
2. Location
3. Brokers
4. Bigger can be better, but..
5. Pedigree Counts
6. Turning a Profit
7. Used? New? Custom? In-Between?
8. International Buying

Sailboat Buying Guide - Bigger can be better, but..

2007-04-30T17:54:00.000-06:00

Sailboat Buying Guide - Bigger can be better, but..
Sara Clemence

Bigger Can Be Better, But...

Pretty but needs a crew of four.

A bigger boat means more space, stability and speed. "Sailboats today have the necessary horsepower to behave like a motorboat," says Mitchell Gibbons-Neff of Sparkman & Stephens. Long passages are far more comfortable on larger boats, and hydraulic systems and roller-furling sails have made it possible to handle boats with fewer people.

It doesn't make sense to build a custom boat that is less than 40 feet. "It's not anywhere near cost-effective," says Gibbons-Neff. "If you take the nicest production boat and try to make an equivalent custom boat, you'll spend at least twice as much." The cost of a 70-foot custom boat could be comparable to a high-end production boat.

But extra footage can also mean extra headaches. The Zingaro, a 114-foot luxury sailboat currently for sale at Sparkman & Stephens, requires a crew of four: a captain, engineer, mate and cook. The captain alone would be paid $90,000 per year, says Gibbons-Neff, and "a professional crew is harder to find than a good boat."

The larger a boat, the harder it can be to maintain and repair. Not all boatyards can handle large boats, so you may find yourself moving the boat around just to find a place that can accommodate it.

"You can have as much fun in a 15-footer as in a 45-footer," Gibbons-Neff says. For example, he volunteers that Sparkman & Stephens makes a 15-foot high-performance dinghy for $50,000.

Sailboat Buying Guide

1. Intro
2. Location
3. Brokers
4. Bigger can be better, but..
5. Pedigree Counts
6. Turning a Profit
7. Used? New? Custom? In-Between?
8. International Buying

Sailboat Buying Guide - Broker

2007-04-30T17:51:00.000-06:00

Sailboat Buying Guide - Broker
Going For Brokers
Sara Clemence

Let the brokers do the work.

The more expensive a boat you are considering, the more essential it is to have a good broker. Not a good broker selling the boat to you, but a good broker working for you in the marketplace, helping you find a used or custom-made boat that fits your needs, is well built and is priced fairly.

A broker will bring a huge body of knowledge to the process, understanding about different makes and models of boats, and a network of other brokers to draw upon for information.

If you act on your own, searching the boating magazines and online listings (such as those on yachtworld.com), any broker you call about a vessel will be working for himself, trying to sell you that particular boat. Instead, call many brokers and find one to work with exclusively.

"It doesn't matter what boat you buy. He wants to meet your needs and specifications," says Bob Leslie, managing director for the Massachusetts office of Northrop and Johnson, a 50-year-old yacht brokerage that specializes in large boats. "Let the broker do all the work."

A good broker will be a member of the Yacht Brokers Association of America (YBAA) or the local equivalent (a European broker should be a member of the Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association). A member broker must be an individual contractor working for a brokerage firm and must follow a set of guidelines, most of which are designed to protect the consumer.

YBAA members have at least one year of professional experience, but make sure yours has at least five years and is backed by an established brokerage with a strong reputation, says Leslie. Advertisements in a national or international publication such as Yachting or Boat International indicate that a brokerage is solid. California and Florida brokers must be licensed, and other states have certification requirements. As in all cases, however, personal references are often the most valuable.

Prospective brokers should ask lots of questions, trying to assess your needs. "They should be in input mode instead of output mode," Bennett says. "If it appears that they are trying to sell you something, just hang up. It should not be an adversarial relationship."

As with real estate, there is usually a boat broker on the seller's side and on the buyer's side. When a sale is completed, the seller pays the broker's commission, usually 10%, with 3% going to the buying broker.

http://www.forbes.com/2002/07/24/0724sport_3.html

Sailboat Buying Guide

1. Intro
2. Location
3. Brokers
4. Bigger can be better, but..
5. Pedigree Counts
6. Turning a Profit
7. Used? New? Custom? In-Between?
8. International Buying

Sailboat Buying Guide - Location

2007-04-30T17:49:00.000-06:00

Sailboat Buying Guide - Location
Sara Clemence

Where you sail (which is related to how you sail) will influence the size of the boat and the systems you have on board.

In the Northwest or Maine, for example, the water is deep enough that you don't have to worry about how far your keel goes into the water. But try squeezing a 16.5-foot draft into Long Island Sound or Chesapeake Bay, and you may be in for an unpleasant grounding. A very tall mast can also restrict your sailing area, as it may not clear low bridges. Conversely, while you can take a 30-footer across an ocean, you probably don't want to.

If you're sailing in Bora Bora, says Phil Bennett of Hinckley, you'll want to carry a single sideband radio, which can communicate over thousands of miles. "If you're sailing in Annapolis, all you need is a VHS and a cell phone."

Location can also determine your water and fuel systems. In most of the United States, you can refill your water tanks with a hose at a dock. If you're traveling to the Caribbean, where water sources may not be reliable, you had better have a water-making system on board.

If you're buying a used boat, where it has been sailed can affect its condition. Saltwater is far more corrosive than fresh water. In the United States, the freshwater sailing season, which takes place in the Great Lakes, is relatively short. More-expensive boats are often stored indoors, so they have less exposure to the elements, says Mitchell Gibbons-Neff, president of Sparkman & Stephens, a venerable boat design and brokerage firm based in New York City and Ft. Lauderdale. But beware freshwater with wooden boats, which are prone to rot.

http://www.forbes.com/2002/07/24/0724sport_2.html

Sailboat Buying Guide

1. Intro
2. Location
3. Brokers
4. Bigger can be better, but..
5. Pedigree Counts
6. Turning a Profit
7. Used? New? Custom? In-Between?
8. International Buying

Sailboat Buying Guide - Intro

2007-04-30T17:47:00.000-06:00

Sailboat Buying Guide - Intro
Sara Clemence

Buying a boat can seem a lot like buying a car. Choose the model, color and accessories, cut a check and you're done. In fact, it's far more complicated that that--more like buying a house. A house that floats.

There are a limited number of car manufacturers and a seemingly infinite number of boat companies. All cars have four wheels, while sail configurations can vary widely. There are dozens, even hundreds, of factors that come into play when buying a boat. What size? What brand? New? Used? Custom-built? Will it have racing sails? A washer and dryer? Wood trim? What kind of wood? What kind of stain?

"A boat can be a very emotional purchase," says Phil Bennett, senior sales director for The Hinckley Company, which has been building luxury boats since 1928. But because it can be a complicated process, fraught with fantasy, buying a sailboat is part love, part logic. You may imagine yourself at the helm of that 70-foot wooden racing boat, but it may not suit your real-life needs. Bennett advises: "Make sure that you use a little bit of rational thinking, or you may end up with more boat than you need."

As with cars, safety is paramount in a boat. "You don't try to get the best price on a parachute," says Bennett. "This boat is going to be carrying you and your family offshore. It is in itself a safety item."

http://www.forbes.com/2002/07/24/0724sport.html

Sailboat Buying Guide

1. Intro
2. Location
3. Brokers
4. Bigger can be better, but..
5. Pedigree Counts
6. Turning a Profit
7. Used? New? Custom? In-Between?
8. International Buying

1999 Grady - Used Boat

2007-04-25T13:52:00.000-06:00

1999 Grady - Used Boat

For More Info : 1999 Grady - Used Boat
Birmingham, Alabama

DON’T PASS UP THIS GRADY WHITE ADVENTURE POWERBOAT IN GOOD CONDITION!! It includes a boat trailer in good condition, canvas top, new tires on trailer, plastic side curtains, porta potty-v-berth. Additional features include a Loren/ GPS, swim step, 2 base wells. YOU MUST SEE TO BELIEVE!!

FINANCING ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE!!

Fishing: Snook season ending May 1

2007-04-25T13:49:00.000-06:00

Fishing: Snook season ending May 1
By John Preeg

Wednesday, April 25, 2007

This will be the last weekend that you can invite a snook back to your house for dinner. Snook season closes on Tuesday, and from then until Sept. 1 you are welcome to work out with a snook but you can’t eat him.

This closed season will have little effect on most anglers since the snook is such an esteemed fish that the majority of fishermen practice catch-and-release when snook fishing, even when they are lucky enough to catch a fish in the slot. This is good for the snook, but tough on cows or other fish since these same conservationists tend to come home and eat a rare steak or three salmon filets after a long, famishing day on the water.

Typically, April is an excellent month for snook fishing, but this has been an extremely windy April, so the snook have done quite well. Unfortunately, for those snook that have avoided the frying pan so far this season, this weekend coincides with the approaching full moon. This a time when snook just can’t keep their mouths shut and stop eating. Women anglers might be better able to sympathize with this feeling than men. Anyway, the snook and the snook fishermen will be gathered in the passes south of Marco Island testing each others skills.

Personally, this weekend, I will be rooting for the snook. I don’t want to influence anyone on whether to keep or release, but any pretty ladies (all big snook are females) that make it till Tuesday will then get a chance to spawn this summer and preserve the species.

NAPLES: Capt. Tommy Robinson reported that it has been very windy, but he has been getting out, and the fishing is fairly good, especially wreck fishing. On Sunday, Robinson’s party landed gag grouper up to 33 inches as well as amberjack to 20 pounds. Many more amberjack would have been boated except for the goliath grouper that were so aggressive that they were chasing the amberjack all the way to the surface. One 200-pound plus goliath actually raced so fast to the surface that it blew its own swim bladder before hobbling back towards the bottom.

Earlier in the week, Robinson had been finding “smoker” kings up to 30-pounds on these same wrecks along with a few snapper. Cobia and permit, however, have been completely absent.

MARCO ISLAND/TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS: Capt. Bill Jones says that it has been windy and the water is dirty, but there are plenty of snook around the south end of Marco Island for anyone who has good bait. Jones has been going offshore early in the morning before the winds kick up to get his bait, and then bringing it back in shore to catch the snook.

On Tuesday, Jones guided John Stevens tarpon fishing. Stevens hooked up early and landed a 100-pound fish. After that battle, Stevens had had enough tarpon fishing so they moved into the backcountry to fish for snook. Stevens first snook measured 34 inches, and he added another six large fish before the morning was over.

Jones said that the snook fishing should get even better this weekend, and the tarpon fishing will improve as the waters warm.

EVERGLADES CITY: Capt. Tony Brock has not been fishing that much this past week because of the wind and dirty water, but said that there are a few big snook on the outside north of Everglades City and redfish far to the south. Before last week’s front, the snook were extremely plentiful but small. Brock said that he was catching a dozen small snook for every legal fish. The fish should get bigger over the next week as the waters warm.

Typically, large, “gator” trout move back into the rivers in March and April, but this year, they never arrived. Smaller trout, however, are plentiful on the outside and in some of the back bays. Tarpon have been scarce because of the wind, but rolling fish will be common as soon as the winds subside.

Brock expects the fishing to improve considerably over the next few weeks.

WIGGINS PASS: Capt. Dave Hanson has had a difficult time getting offshore this week because of the wind. He did manage to get out 36 miles one day while fishing with Ron Musack. They caught a five-foot blacktip shark, and had several legal grouper on, but the sharks attacked the big grouper, and only the heads were brought to the surface. Hanson said that luckily they landed enough Spanish mackerel and snapper so that they had plenty of fish to eat.

Capt. Larry Regienczuk also tried getting offshore to tarpon fish last week. He did get out, but said the waters were very dirty and there were no tarpon sighted. He did manage to catch a few small sharks.

FRESHWATER: The Golden Gate canal system is holding lots of fish but very little water, according to Jess Edwards of the Golden Gate Tackle Box. Water levels are three to four feet below last year’s level, and boaters need to be extremely cautious. The fish are stressed, and concentrated in the deep holes where they are tacking mostly live baits because of the clear water. If you can get to a deep hole, the fishing can be spectacular.

Panfishing is also good. This is the time of the year that the bluegill and brim move up onto their beds, so the fish are large. Live worms or Missouri minnows are the best baits.

Huge Shark Almost Too Much For Fishermen's Boat

2007-04-23T10:01:00.001-06:00

Huge Shark Almost Too Much For Fishermen's Boat
Shark May Be World Record

POSTED: 4:28 am PDT April 22, 2007

DESTIN, Fla. -- They knew they were gonna need a bigger boat.

The crew of the Sea Ya Later II hooked a 1,063-pound mako shark in the Gulf of Mexico Wednesday. The 12-foot-6-inch shark was half the size of their 23-foot boat.

They called in The Mother Lode, a 45-foot charter boat, to help bring in the shark.

The fishermen harpooned the shark with flying gaffs, a large hook attached to rope used to pull in a fisherman's catch. The gaffs were tied the Sea Ya Later II, which was tilting and close to taking on water.

"If (the shark) hadn't been as tired as she was, this boat would be sitting on the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico," said Lindsey Stanley, the Sea Ya Later II's captain.

After the shark died, it took eight men to pull it aboard the charter boat and take it to Destin on the Florida Panhandle. The mako was too heavy for the first set of scales at Fisherman's Wharf.

"I'm investigating it as a world record," said Jim Roberson, who represents the Florida Panhandle for the International Game Fish Association.

The registered weight of 1,063 pounds makes the catch eligible for the world record in the 30-pound line class for a short-fin mako. The class record is a 997-pound, 11-ounce shark caught in Sydney, Australia, in 1995.

Extra Storage Announces “Storage Facility for RV and Boat”

2007-04-23T09:53:00.001-06:00

Extra Storage Announces “Storage Facility for RV and Boat”

Riverside, CA, April 22, 2007 --(PR.com)-- Extra Storage Riverside, located at 6455 Van Buren, is a premier self storage provider for major Southern California locations since 1986. Today they are proud to announce “the offering of outdoor Boat and RV Storage.” The company is dedicated to maintaining safe, clean, and affordable self storage space for the valued possessions of their customers.

Extra Storage provides perfect solution for those who love aquatic sports and own, or planning to buy, a boat or recreation vehicle (RV), but unable to store it, due to space shortage and community restrictions. Self storage units can help protect valuable, spacious items like RV and Boat from harsh weather conditions. The onsite managers, Nick and Sandy Lopez provide a stress-free, convenient solution for storing extra furniture or household items and possessions.

Extra Storage Riverside, which is accessible 7 days a week except major holidays, facilitates their customers by offering electronic gate access from 7am to 7pm. The size of storage units range from 4’X4’ to 12’x20’ and 8’X40’ with important features like security monitoring cameras, managers who live onsite, drive up access, clean and well lit space to meet every individual requirement for safe and sound storage of ones belonging.

About Extra Storage: It’s a premier self storage provider for major locations like Huntington Beach, Riverside, Orange County, Burbank, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Rancho Cucamonga, Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, etc. in CA. Since 1986, the company has been dedicated to maintaining clean, affordable and secure self storage rental units.

1999 Sea Ray - Used Boat

2007-04-17T11:02:00.000-06:00

1999 Sea Ray - Used Boat

For More Info : 1999 Sea Ray - Used Boat
Chicopee, Massachusetts

AN EXCELLENT 21.5 FOOT 1999 SEA RAY EXPRESS CRUISER POWERBOAT!!!
With a 305 Mercruiser Inboard/Outboard 270 HP gas engine and about 272 hours with fuel capacity of 50 gallons and a cruising speed of about 40 mph. This boat has a stainless steel prop with lock and includes an extra prop. Holds approximately 6 people and features a marine radio, AM/FM stereo, Humminbird fish finder, rod holders, a fish well and trim tabs. The cuddy cabin sleeps 2 and includes a sink, table, aft shower, fresh water tank and enclosed head with a pump out black water tank. It also includes a bimini top, mooring cover and camper cover. A galvanized boat trailer with a Strong Arm Electric Winch goes with it. This boat is completely outfitted.

FINANCING ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE.

Madison Bay Holdings, Inc Drives 100% Growth of New Dealer Distribution for Fish-Rite Boats

2007-04-17T10:53:00.000-06:00

Madison Bay Holdings, Inc Drives 100% Growth of New Dealer Distribution for Fish-Rite Boats

SEATTLE -- Madison Bay Holdings, Inc. (Pink Sheets: MDBY), a holding company engaged in the acquisition and merger of leisure product manufacturers, Recreational Vehicle manufacturers, boat manufacturers and other related businesses announced today that the company expects a continued increase in revenues as a result of an increase in the dealer and distribution base of Fish-Rite boats. This increase is expected to double within 10 months.

Management also anticipates sales momentum will continue to surge as dealers are strategically established in major markets throughout the US and internationally. The increase is predicted to occur due to most dealers being well established retailers with 20 to 30 years of history and an existing customer base.

In a relatively short period Madison Bay Holdings has been able to establish prestige, recognized dealers in strategic areas such as Brooks Marine, Chambersburg, PA, Brinsfield Boat Basin, Portland, OR, Alusport, Oslo, Norway, Wolf Auto Group in MT., ID., CO and many others.

About Madison Bay Holdings, Inc.
Madison Bay Holdings, Inc. is a marketer and distributor of Recreational Vehicles, Powerboats and Leisure Watercraft. The Company owns all equipment, designs and trademarks of Summit Coaches, the Recreational Vehicle (RV) division that specializes in manufacturing, marketing and selling upscale and feature-oriented RV trailers, including a flagship 38-foot RV, the "Stiletto." Madison Bay Holdings' marine division is involved in boutique leisure product distribution. Madison Bay Holdings also provides a variety of financial, marketing, and sales consulting services to boat manufacturers, dealers, distributors and leisure product/water sport companies.

For more information on the company and its newly appointed advisory board please visit the website http://www.madisonbayholdings.com.

How to buy a boat without getting burnt!

2007-04-13T10:50:00.000-06:00

How to buy a boat without getting burnt!

Or most things you need to know about buying a boat but have no one to ask.
(by Rod Lynch)

G'day, my name's Rod Lynch and I live beside the sea, in a place called Wollongong, about 50 miles south of Sydney, Australia.

I went to sea as a deck boy back in 1964 and I've spent the last 20 odd years sailing on and off, cruised Australia's East Coast a couple of times, done a bit of boat building and run a brokerage for a while.

Why am I writing this? 'Cos I hate seeing people's dreams turn into nightmares. It's always intrigued me why 19 out of 20 first time boat owners buy a pup. They simply buy their first boat for all the wrong reasons. (As I did, I might add!)

What's the best type of boat to buy? Well, 'best' is one of those 'relative' words. 75% or 80% of boats on the market today are neglected. The average Joe (or Jo-ann) assumes a coat of paint or polish will restore it, W-R-O-N-G! Let's talk about a neglected yacht.

Most people's first boat is in the $20,000 to $50,000 range. Buying the wrong powerboat can cost you big time later. The wrong sailboat the same.

A collapsing rig could put you in dire peril so you must re-rig it and step the mast and overhaul it and also replace halyards, say $5000. You can bet because the boat will be, on average, 15 to 20 years old, the sails will need to be replaced, at least a Main and a Jib or Genoa. Say $3500 Then there's the motor/s.

Now it or they may sound OK to you now, but the odds are sometime in the first couple of years it will probably die. Another $5000 to $10000.

Then we've got the hull, which, as time goes on will look uglier and uglier to you to the point where you'll want to spend more money to restore it.

Then there's the crappy wiring, the cushions are worn out, the timber- work is scuffed and the galley and head stink.

Need I go on? Does this reasonably describe the last few boats you've looked at, (check with your partner before you answer!)

Sounds depressing doesn't it, don't despair, just follow some sensible advice and you'll be out on the water in your new boat, sailing or cruising with new friends and having a ball.

The golden rule when buying a boat is: BUY QUALITY!!! NOT QUANTITY!!!

Look at those words! Stare at them till they're engraved in your brain!

I have never in my life, met any boat owner who's ever had enough money to buy the boat they had in mind. whether it's $20,000 $50,000 or $250,000

It's amazing but true.

I've owned a lot of different boats and I can tell you it's a fact. I guess it's true every time we make a major purchase, we just seem to be short of dollars for that thing we want to buy.....

http://www.firstboat.com/howtobuy.html

Kevin VanDam: The Face Of Bass Fishing

2007-04-12T11:56:00.000-06:00

Kevin VanDam: The Face Of Bass Fishing

By BRETT HONE
Staff Writer

LAKE FORK - He's not as well known on a national scale as Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan or Jeff Gordon. But in professional bass fishing circles, his name is the equivalent of any of those.

For years Kevin VanDam has dominated bass fishing circuits. His resume as an angler is full of success: 10 wins and 69 total top 10 finishes in 187 B.A.S.S. events. It is a career as dominating as any champion in their sport.

Fishing professionally since 1990, VanDam started his career winning B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year honors his first year on the pro circuit in 1992. He repeated that feat in 1996 and 1999 and then dominated the FLW circuit in 2001, becoming the Angler of the Year.

That same year, he won the Bassmaster Classic, a feat he repeated in 2005. This year, VanDam is currently second in the Angler of the Year points race through three tournaments.

This week VanDam will captain one of 40 teams of four anglers from the Professional Anglers Association competing in the million-dollar Toyota Texas Bass Classic at Lake Fork.

"We've been at some phenomenal fisheries the last couple of events where there is a potential to catch giant bass at all of them, and then we come to Lake Fork, which is arguably the best bass fishing lake in the country," VanDam said. "This will definitely be fun and it will be exciting to see how things turn out."

For VanDam, the TTBC is an excellent busman's holiday.

"I'm having a pretty good season even though it is early on," VanDam said. "This week will be different, though. The most exciting thing about this tournament is that we aren't fishing for points that count toward the Bassmaster Classic or the FLW championship. This is a one-time event, it's for all the marbles and it's unique.

"For us as anglers it's time to take some chances. We don't ever get to fish with another guy so it's going to be fun and it's going to be a learning experience and I can tell you, my team is excited about this. At the same time, it's still about winning."

The Toyota Texas Bass Classic, which runs Friday through Sunday, will feature several differences from normal tournaments. Those include grouping anglers into four-person teams and putting an onboard observer on each boat to weigh and measure fish so the tournament can be held while embracing the lake's slot limit.

Each team will send two members out during a four-hour morning or afternoon session to fish. Every fish caught will be weighed and each angler will be credited for their top five weights of the day. All of the team's weights will be added together at the end of the day to determine the tournament leaders. After two days of fishing, the field will be narrowed to the top five teams for Sunday's finals.

"The format of the event is a little bit challenging in that each team member has to catch five fish and you only have four hours to do that. That's a little bit limiting, but this lake has more 4- to 7-pound bass than probably any lake in the country," VanDam said. "Consistency is going to be one of the most important things, for guys to come in with quality fish every time. I know Texas Parks and Wildlife would love to see some ShareLunker fish come in, but I think that a lot of guys are going to see that, under this quick time format, they have to take more five pounders."

VanDam's team includes Matt Reed, Dave Lefebre and Therron Caldwell. If they make Sunday's finals they will be competing for the top team prize of $250,000.

Just don't expect anything to come easy this week, even for VanDam, who enters the week trying to fight off the flu. He was told by his wife jokingly to "get up and go to work."

"I can tell you I don't think the Bassmaster Elite tour guys or the FLW guys are going to be used to what they are see here this week," VanDam said. "The FLW Tour guys have been fishing some tough lakes and had some tough fisheries already this season so it's going to be a welcome change for them because they are going to get their rods jerked quite a bit."

VanDam will bring a certain familiarity of the lake to his team. He has filmed several Bass Pro Shop Outdoor World shows on the lake, giving him a good idea of what Fork can be like in varying conditions.

"I've been down here probably seven or eight times, usually every time in the fall, and most of the guys just can't imagine the number of 4- to 8-pounders there are in this lake," VanDam said. "That's what is mind-boggling to me. We fish all the best lakes in the world and this place gets a lot of pressure from year-around fishing and yet continues to produce year after year.

"The great thing about this lake is that Texas Parks and Wildlife saw very early on that they had a very special set of natural circumstances when (the Sabine River Authority) built this lake. They kept a close eye on it from the get go and have continually tweaked the regulations around this lake, and because of that there are tons of people that come from all around the country. It's crucial that the rules are followed to help preserve this lake."

While VanDam expects a 5-pound per fish average necessary to advance to Sunday's finals, he added that with the warmer weather that estimate may be on the low side.

"This transition from cold to warm weather is perfect," VanDam said. "The cold held some fish back from running and as the week gets warmer there will be a big wave of fish move up. That's when you catch the big ones. If you could have scripted a scenario, currently with what I've seen, this is what you would want."

http://www.tylerpaper.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070412/SPORTS/704120323

2006 Horizon - Used Boat

2007-04-12T11:53:00.000-06:00

2006 Horizon - Used Boat

For More Info : 2006 Horizon - Used Boat
Wentzville, Missouri

A MUST HAVE!!! INBOARD/OUTBOARD POWERBOAT, W/FIBERGLASS HULL, IN EXCELLENT CONDITION!!! THIS POWERBOAT HAS IT ALL!!! ONLY 41 HRS. ON THE ENGINE...Includes: Integrated Siren Platform System, Depth Sounder, Power Extinguisher System, Bilge Pump (in rear), Dual Batteries w/Switch, Docking Lights, Cockpit and Forward Bimini Top, Moor Cover Enclosure, Port-a-Potty and Custom Fit Trailer. Relax with a drink from the REFRESHMENT CENTER W/SINK and AM/FM CD. Also Includes a 5 YR. EXTENDED WARRANTY.
THIS EXCEPTIONAL POWERBOAT WILL NOT LAST!!! FINANCING AVAILABLE!!!

1998 Motor Yacht - Used Boat

2007-04-11T10:57:00.001-06:00

1998 Motor Yacht - Used Boat

For More Info : 1998 Motor Yacht - Used Boat
Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Overall Length 43' 9"; Beam 14'1"; Hull Draft 3' 3"; Vertical clearance 18' 6"; weight (dry) 23,577 lbs.; fuel capacity: 286 gals; water capacity 100 gals; holding tank capacity 60 gals. Headroom: 6' 7". Extended swim platform with swim ladder and hot water shower.

Two staterooms with queen beds. Ultra-leather upholstery. Two heads with full separate showers. Vacu-flush toilets. Sleeps six (with sofa bed in salon). Full galley with Corian counters; three burner electric stove with oven; microwave; toaster oven; coffee maker. Full-size refrigerator. New Raritan Ice maker. Cherry wood interior. Extra interior lights. Improved running lights for safety. Canvas runners protect carpets. "Sidewalks" permit immediate access to bow from bridge. Molded steps throughout, no ladders. Wet bar. Sunbrella windshield cover. All manuals and maintenance log. Many accessories.

Mechanical:

Two Caterpillar Model 3116 350HP engines,. Kohler 8 KW generator. Trim tabs. Halon Firefighting system. Dripless shaft seals. Racor fuel filters. Electric oil changing system. Side exhausts. Three CO detectors. Sea strainers.

Bottom repainted and new zincs in 2005.

Electronics:

On Bridge: New Garmin 172C color chart plotter; Standard Horizon Series 30 Depth Finder; Standard Horizon Eclipse Plus VHF Marine Radio; Jenson MCC 8320 60w. AM/FM Cassette Bridge Stereo.

In Salon: JVC MX-D 302T AM/FM/CD/Cassette Component Stereo System with extra Bose speakers on aft deck, JVC 2081 20" color TV set. JVC HR-A43U VCR.

In Captain's Cabin: 13" color TV.

Extras:

Full canvas bridge enclosure. New Bimini top. Dual electric A/C and heat. Electric windlass with remote control on the bridge. Inflatable dingy. EV Double tube - Double floor Emergency life raft in canister with full "E" pack emergency equipment (12 year warrantee). Upgraded with Delta plow anchor and stainless steel lined bowsprit. Spare Danforth-type anchor with chain and nylon rode. Electronic TV antenna. Boat in tip-top condition. Original owner (a retired USCG officer).