You don’t have to be a frequent boater or conservationist to have heard the fear and dread spreading around the words “red tide.” Making headlines across the state of Florida and beyond, the threat of red tide is very real, but do you understand the risks it poses to wildlife and swimmers? Let’s break down some fast facts to make sure you’re staying safe on the water.
What Do I Need to Know About Red Tide?
What is red tide? Red tide is a harmful algae bloom caused by an overabundance of nutrients in the water, allowing the algae to feed and grow.
What causes red tide? Though red tide occurs naturally, some scientists point to runoff from septic tanks and agriculture for further fuelling algae growth.
Why is red tide harmful? Simply put, the red tide algae is harmful due to two major factors: it produces toxins and can decrease oxygen in the water.
What can be negatively affected by red tide? Everything and everyone in or around the affected waters. Fish can be strangled by the lack of oxygen in the water, die due to the toxins produced by the algae or harm the predators that consume them. Shorelines can become littered with dead sea life, leading to less-than-fun beachgoing conditions. Human swimmers risk skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory issues in red tide conditions. Winds can even blow toxins onto land, affecting those nearby.
Can I fish during a red tide? Fish may be safe to eat (as long as they are filleted and guts are disposed of) but shellfish should be avoided.
Red tide is bad news for our shorelines and those who call them home. From the ecosystem to the economy, this bloom of microscopic life can spell big problems for Florida. But as we deal with this unfortunately frequent issue, understanding its dangers can help keep your next day at the beach or boating adventure from drifting into murky waters.
When most people think of fishing, they picture someone waking up just before dawn in order to hit the water just as the sun crests over the horizon. It’s a beautiful, awe-inspiring sight if you haven’t seen it for yourself–seeing the day slowly break through the darkness of early morning hours while on your boat. However, many people don’t realize, there is some great fishing to do before dawn.
Sure, night fishing has its detractors. But why do many look down on hitting the water after dark?
Sleeping Patterns: No, we’re not talking about disturbing your sleeping pattern (though there’s that too). You have to know which species of fish you’re looking for to ensure that it’s not bedtime when you hit the water at nighttime. Some fish are especially active at dusk and dawn as well, so try to schedule out your trip accordingly.
Navigational No-Nos: Even the best captain can’t see in the dark. Though adequate lighting, GPS systems and more can help, there is no beating being able to see what’s in front of you with the naked eye.
So, sure, there are some issues to consider before breaking out the Red Bull for a late-night fishing session. But that does not mean it’s not worth a try, especially when you have two equally intriguing benefits of night fishing.
Beat the Heat: Though the hottest months of the year are in the rearview, much of the South will surely still be hitting upper 80s for weeks to come. Once the oppressive sun has set, you beat the heat, avoid sunburns and have a more comfortable time on the water.
Less Competition and Traffic: Though others prefer boating at night, there are often far more boaters on the water during the daytime hours. Less activity means quieter waters, meaning fewer chances of scaring off your next catch.
Yes, there are pros and cons to night fishing, but if you’re like our clients and friends in Texas and Florida, you’ll know all too well it’s worth a shot to beat the heat alone: yes, even in early autumn. So, if you were on the fence about night fishing, maybe give it a try and see for yourself. Just be sure to take it slow and know the habits of the fish you’re trying to reel in. Be safe, have fun, and we’ll see you on the water!
Already well into the first quarter of 2018, you may be revving up for a spring and summer season full of beach trips and boating fun. As an industry and culture, we love to think about what’s around the bend for boating. Gazing into the near future, the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) posted a video on notable 2018 recreational boating trends we may see in the coming months.
2018 Recreational Boating Trends to Watch
Versatility: Though there are certainly boats that work better for specific activities, there’s a prediction that more boaters will seek out multi-use vessels. This makes sense when considering many boaters aren’t on the water professionally or for a highly specific reason. Many may flock to vessels that are more Jacks of all trades.
Family Focus: This year is predicted to be big for families, and why not? Boating can be big fun for everyone, whether cruising on a lake or deep sea fishing. As long as the captain follows safe boating laws and practices, boating is a relatively safe way to bond in the great outdoors.
Fishing: According to the NMMA video, 70% of boats are used for fishing. Additionally, the sales of vessels used for saltwater fishing are predicted to increase by 4% and freshwater to increase by 2%. Whether for relaxation or some friendly competition, there’s a reason fishing is a major driver of boat sales, and will be for the foreseeable future.
Boat Services: You don’t have to own a boat to enjoy time on the water. The NMMA predicts that services including boat rentals, chartering and fractional use boating, just to name a few.
NMMA president, Thom Dammrich has some solid predictions for 2018 recreational boating trends, many of which ring true to what we’ve seen firsthand in recent years. With an increased interest in versatility, family boating, fishing and alternative means of getting onto the water, this year is sure to be yet another exciting time to be in our industry and share this common passion of ours. Only time will tell if these predictions prove correct, but regardless, we’re happy to get going on another season of sunshine and fun on our favorite waterways.
Can you believe we’re already knee deep into the third quarter of 2017? That being said, it’s been a fantastic year to be on the water, with little in the way of major action in the tropics to put a damper on our fun. As time passes, boating, like everything, advances at what feels like an ever-quickening rate.
Don’t worry–if you can’t keep up, you’re not alone. But, as people with our ear to the ground (or is it water?), here are a few of 2017’s biggest boat trends (so far).
Top 3 Boat Trends You Should Know About
Digital Everything: From throttles to dashboards, more and more of our modern boats tend to be going digital. Digital replacements of complicated, traditionally mechanical parts not only provide often far smoother operation but also reduce the amount of moving parts that boat owners have to worry about repairing. On the digital dashboard front, new touchscreen LCDs are not only aesthetically pleasing but allow for more information to be displayed in one place, including GPS and weather reports.
LEDs: When it comes to lighting, it’s out with the old and in with the new. Not only are traditional bulbs less energy efficient (putting a bigger strain on your battery), but they are far less reliable, especially on the water. Longer lasting and relatively easy to install, LEDs are also highly customizable, allowing boaters to change colors on the fly in some models.
Convertible Seating: If a minivan can have fold-away seating or a bench that turns into two separate seats, why can’t your boat? Whether taking a romantic trip for two or a full-family excursion, your next boat may be able to accommodate with convertible, highly customizable seating.
Of course, the above three trends are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to new boat trends sweeping the scene. The one commonality among all three, though, is the fact that all are new methods of making boating easier, more intuitive and less of a hassle. Like trending tech advancements everywhere, time brings boating innovation that we’re sure to enjoy well into the future. For now, enjoy the digital displays and throttles, LED lighting and convertible seating that help make modern boating a breeze.
There is no question when it comes to boating safety: you either make it a priority or you put yourself and everyone else on the water at risk of injury, boat damage or worse. Though simple tips like keeping fire extinguishers onboard, wearing personal floatation devices and utilizing emergency locator beacons can be literal life savers, should you consider taking boating safety courses?
The Benefits of Taking a Boating Safety Course
We know, we know. You’re probably an experienced boater who feels pretty confident that they know their way around their boat and favorite waterway. You very well may, but there are always blind spots or bad habits that you may not even recognize you’re doing every time you hit the water.
Some of the learning opportunities include:
Environmental Protection: Staying on the right side of environmental protection of your favorite lake, stream, river or shoreline isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s also very often the law. From pollution prevention to low-wake zone awareness, there are small steps you need to know before making a big, negative impact on the environment.
Boat Operation: Though you may feel like you have the hang of operating your vessel, there are some easily overlooked best practices that can help you avoid collisions, run aground or otherwise damage your boat.
Emergency Procedures:From fires to dangerous weather, when you’re facing an emergency on the water, every second counts. A boating safety class can teach you the right procedures in a number of critical situations possible while boating.
Navigation:Even if you know your favorite boating spot like the back of your hand, there are too many variables to go without trip planning and preparation. These classes can teach you the safest ways to plan your next boating trip.
Equipment:Even the safest boaters should know what equipment could save their lives in emergency situations. Ensure that all of your safety equipment is up to the task of keeping you and yours out of danger.
If you’re a new boater, boating safety courses are a no-brainer. Why not start this exciting hobby from a foundation of knowledge and safe practices? For you more grizzled, practiced boaters who haven’t taken a boating safety course, why wouldn’t you want to brush up on your skills? It’s worth it to know that you’re boating as safely as possible, especially if you boat with friends and loved ones. Safety first–fun, a very close second.
