Boating News and Tips

A good spotlight is an overlooked safety item

rtbb — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 19:28:03 +0000

When going through a checklist of items to have with you in a boat, a spotlight is not always what pops into mind, but they can be very important and helpful. Anyone traveling on a waterway at night should definitely be equipped with a spotlight because a flashlight typically wont cut it. There are many dangers associated with boating at night including floating debris, submerged stumps and other underwater hazards that can easily be spotted with a spotlight, but usually not with a standard flashlight.

When looking for a spotlight for a boat it is advisable to go with one of the many marine grade spotlights that are available. These spotlights carry features like being water tight and floating so if they are dropped into a lake they are retrievable and should still work. Some marine spotlights also address the problem of fog on the water by including a special lense that helps with fog penetration. Depending on the set up of the boat, a decision will need to be made on whether a rechargeable or corded spotlight will serve best. If the boat has a cigarette adapter, a corded spotlight could be a good choice since it could be stored and left on the boat at all times versus a rechargeable one that would have to be charged prior to each trip.

No matter how you choose one, definitely include a spotlight into your list of "must have" items for any boat. You never know when you might need it.

Pedal Boats are Fun for the Whole Family

rtbb — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 17:49:56 +0000

On a recent weekend getaway, the family stayed at a small ranch that had a few fishing ponds on it. Since my kids are young there was no real point in renting a boat, so we decided to take out one of the many pedal boats they had on the property. I had not been on one in years and my wife and kids had never ridden in one, so I wasnt sure how it would go. Well after a few minutes getting adjusted to things and understanding the rutter situation, we got the hang of it and the whole family had a blast. The young ones were a little bummed because they couldnt pedal it, but they got to do the steering so all was well. After we were done, asked one of the employees where you find pedal boats for sale. He told me they are all over the place online and even the sporting goods stores are starting to carry them. Hopefully one day we will have a place with a pond and if we do I know we will have on of those.

Cabela’s Introduces Top Christmas Gift Ideas

rtbb — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:11:38 +0000

Sidney, NE (Vocus/PRWEB ) November 20, 2009 -- Cabela’s offers twelve great gifts for outdoor enthusiasts, picked from their comprehensive selection of clothing and gear. The list includes holiday values for friends and family, whether they’re hard-core hunters, avid anglers or people passionate about everything the outdoors have to offer. Offering three convenient ways to shop (via retail stores, online at www.cabelas.com or through their famous catalogs), Cabela’s is the savvy shoppers foremost choice this holiday season.

Gifts Less Than $30

Fly-Tying Tool Kit – All the high-quality brass tools to get started tying flies - including scissors, bobbin, bodkin, hackle pliers, whip finisher, dubbing twister and bobbin threader in a 8" x 5" x 1-1/2 lined wooden box for convenient travel and storage. Built-in pedestal vise will hold hooks down to a size 24. $29.99

Camo Gun Cases – Virtually indestructible Tuff Nylon shells and heavy foam padding to shield firearms from the roughest bumps and bangs. Soft lining is easy on expensive finishes and resists snags and abrasion. Self-repairing YKK nylon zipper. Full wraparound web handles. Choose the 52" Shotgun Case or 48" Scoped-Rifle Case available in two popular camo patterns. $19.99

Diamond Peak Hydration Packs – Made of tough nylon and ripstop polyester, these abrasion-resistant packs will take abuse. 70-oz. reservoir with an on/off bite valve and a tube clip on the shoulder strap keeps the valve in place and convenient for use. The padded mesh back panel makes it comfortable to carry, and the shoulder straps are adjustable for the right fit. Front cargo pocket for carrying keys or other small items. $24.99

Gifts Less Than $50

Activ-Lite Shell-N-Bird Belt – This quick-loading, easy-access bird belt takes all the weight off your shoulders. The ergonomic design gives you added back support for long hunts. This belt is perfect for dog trials, shooting at the range or a long day out in the field. Features three storage pockets, two water-bottle holders, two hooks for carrying birds, shock cords, multiple D-rings and 10 quick-access shotshell holders. $39.99

Women's Hiker Fit Flannel- and Fleece-Lined Jeans – Incredibly soft, durable, 100 percent cotton flannel or 100 percent fleece lining keeps your legs warm. The relaxed cut and tapered ankle gives a roomy fit that's not constricting. Introducing new softer denim that creates a pre-worn feel. Machine washable. $44.99

Whuppin' Stick Baitcasting Combo – A rod-and-reel combo tough enough to whup any fish that swims the freshwater. Sturdy graphite-frame reel has a five ball-bearing system for smooth action and one-way instant anti-reverse clutch. Comes with an original Whuppin' Stick advanced polymer fiberglass rod. $39.99

Gifts Less Than $100

Alaskan Guide Headlamps – Cabela's products bearing the Alaskan Guide Series name go through extensive testing to make sure they're up to the challenge of enduring extreme outdoor conditions. These headlamps are built of super-tough Xylex, and have nearly indestructible Lexan lenses. All are weatherproof, olive drab and have adjustable headbands for optimal comfort. $39.99-$89.99

Instant Cooking Station – Camp cooking is less of a chore and more of a pleasant part of the outdoors experience when you have the functional convenience of this portable, fold-up kitchen. The main table top and the two side tables are made of aluminum. The stainless steel storage grate below the main table top is 22"W x 19"L. Also includes a paper-towel holder and four S-hooks for hanging pans and utensils. And the whole unit is easily transportable in its included carry bag. $89.99

Guidewear Boat Shoes – Traditional boat shoe styling and quality construction come together. Featuring waterproof leather and an air mesh lining, these shoes are built to keep your feet dry from external encounters with water as well as vent internal perspiration. The 360 degree lacing system ensures a snug fit. Nonmarking performance siped rubber sole channels water for sure-footed steps. Choose from the 3-Eye or Toggle models. $59.99

Gifts More Than $100

Pine Ridge Roof-Prism Binoculars – Designed to deliver excellent performance at affordable prices with nitrogen-charged and O-ring sealed construction to make them 100 percent waterproof and fogproof. BaK-4 roof prisms and quality lenses produce clear, crisp images and colors. A large, centrally located, grooved focus wheel is engineered to bring images into view clearly and quickly with one hand. $199.99-$249.99

Guide Tech Jacket – Rugged shell material lined with waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX gives you essential windproof and waterproof performance in a fisherman-friendly design. Two cargo pockets with hook-and-loop closures in front of two fabric-lined handwarmer pockets, four zip pockets across the chest and an internal zip security pocket. $179.99-$199.99
Custom Fit Cordura Seat Covers – These heavy-duty, water-resistant 600-denier Cordura nylon seat covers will stand up to rugged use. Available in a wide variety of styles for a custom fit on the most popular cars, trucks and SUVs. The built-in nylon straps and quick-release buckles ensure quick and easy installation. Set includes headrest and armrest covers where applicable. Made in the USA. $129.99

Cabela’s Gift Cards
For a gift that always fits, choose a Cabela’s Gift Card in denominations from $5 to $5,000. Redeemable through any of Cabela’s three channels: in stores, online or through their world-famous catalogs.

(For more information or images of any of these products, please e-mail communications (at) cabelas (dot) com or call 800-331-3454.)

Cabela’s
Cabela’s Incorporated, headquartered in Sidney, Nebraska, is a leading specialty retailer, and the world’s largest direct marketer, of hunting, fishing, camping and related outdoor merchandise. Since the Company’s founding in 1961, Cabela’s® has grown to become one of the most well-known outdoor recreation brands in the world, and has long been recognized as the World’s Foremost Outfitter®. Through Cabela’s growing number of retail stores and its well-established direct business, it offers a wide and distinctive selection of high-quality outdoor products at competitive prices while providing superior customer service. Cabela’s also issues the Cabela’s CLUB® Visa credit card, which serves as its primary customer loyalty rewards program. Cabela’s stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “CAB.”

For more information, contact:

David Draper, 800-331-3455
Communications (at) cabelas (dot) com

Marinemart Boating Supplies Completes Study: Boaters Hypocritical only in One Specific Area

rtbb — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:22:58 +0000

(Vocus/PRWEB ) November 20, 2009 -- Thanks to exhaustive research from the social scientists at Marinemart Boating Accessories, they can now prove boaters are usually consistently smart people. However, before leisure mariners pat themselves on the back, 78% of motor and sail boaters are unfortunately found to be hypocritical in one single and solitary way.

Over 58% of boat owners possess a firearm. More than 64% have a dog. At least 70% have some type of electronic security features for their home. 92% of boat owners have an alarm system for their car or truck. But, shockingly, less than 22% have any type of security for their boat. Enter Marinemart Boating Supplies to save the day (and boats). They even have devices to call a cell phone when an uninvited guest takes a tour of a private vessel, not to mention a high water sensor in case a bilge pump fails.

The Magellan Security and Monitoring Value Pack is the crème de la crème of the boat security world, protecting from theft or sinking. Cell phone voice reporting, 90 decibel siren, motion sensor, high water sensor, DC low voltage sensor, smoke detector, key Fob remote control, door contact monitor, and 12 VDC battery saver feature are all included. All detectors and sensors are wireless and it’s available for just $2,268.00.

The Boat Nanny is the most useful nanny ever seen. Not only is it wireless, but installable in just a half hour. It will also send a text message in case of high water, AC/DC power loss, excessive cabin & engine temperature, motion & intruders, and smoke & fire. Users can even listen in on cabin noises from essentially anywhere. Want more than just emergency notices? The Boat Nanny will also send daily status reports on all boat parameters. Share a boat with a couple of other people? Up to three numbers can be notified with messages. And don’t worry about a large AC power requirement, only 50 tiny milliamps are needed. No monthly monitoring fees exist either and it costs only $1,340.00.

So, boaters who acquire these products can avoid leering at the mirror, putting a finger in their reflected chest, and calling themselves two-faced on security issues. Best of all, this device will pay for itself even if a boat never has a problem because Marinemart.com’s security products can reduce boat insurance premiums up to 15%. If nothing else, remember the “Public Option” is a health care debate … it definitely does not apply to a private vessel. Secure it now with Marinemart Boating Accessories.

Marinemart Boating Supplies originated from the heart and soul of boating enthusiasts in mid 2009. Based out of Tampa, Florida, and with the support of an international technology company, Marinemart.com seeks a new standard as an on-line marketplace. The excitement is viral once people get to know Marinemart. Introducing brand new items to America, like the brand new Waterbuoy, is a perfect example. The Marinemart experience simply offers higher value at a price comparable to traditional boat supply outlets. Don’t spend hours surfing the web for an item offered by some fly-by-night vendor. Log on and be part of the most expansive boating accessories venue. Relax, it’s Marinemart.

For more information about the brand new Waterbuoy or MarineMart, LLC, visit www.marinemart.com.

The World’s Biggest Sport Fishing Website Just Got a Whole Lot Bigger

rtbb — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:19:46 +0000

Boothwyn, PA (PRWEB) October 26, 2009 -- SportFishermen.com, the leader in online sport fishing information, is proud to announce the launch of its new online store. The store is not just for fishermen; it also features products every hunting, camping, boating and outdoor activity enthusiast will love.

The catalog includes nearly 16,000 products from industry giants such Garmin, Furuno, Raymarine, Simrad, JBL, Jensen, Cobra, Garmin, Lowrance, Northstar, Coleman, and more. Product lines include: marine supplies, boat supplies, nautical chart cards, global positioning systems, camping equipment, boat and automobile electronics, trolling motors, hunting supplies, cameras, and much, much more.

Electronics Guru brings the newest, fastest, and most sought after gadgets in marine electronics right to your desktop. The freshwater and saltwater tackle sections are rapidly expanding, with a full line of tackle currently available from Offshore Innovations. Visit SportFishermen.com's fishing tackle, marine supply and outdoor gear store at http://www.sportfishermen.com/shop/home.php.

www.SportFishermen.com hosts over 400,000 unique readers every thirty days, and is the online sponsor of most major sport fishing tournaments across North America, from Bisbee's Black & Blue Marlin, to the White Marlin Open. If you are a vendor / manufacturer, and have a product you want to get in front of as many eyes possible, this is the opportunity you've been waiting for. Any company can apply to get in on the action, and become a part of the SportFishermen.com experience; where thousands of loyal SportFishermen.com members from across the World come for great news and content, conversation, and top-notch tournament coverage, all from a trusted website. Now is the dawn of a new age, where one website brings manufacturers, vendors, advertising, and consumers together in an online community. Stop guessing whether you're reaching your target audience. Join the online leader. To be a part of the SportFishermen.com experience, contact tim (at) sportfishermen (dot) com.

New Recreational Mariner E-Newsletter Focuses on Safety at Sea

rtbb — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:25:54 +0000

St. Paul, MN (PRWEB) October 15, 2009 -- OceanGrafix, NOAA's (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), http://www.noaa.gov/, print on demand supplier of nautical charts, has launched a monthly e-newsletter "for serious recreational mariners" which underlines the mission of OceanGrafix (http://www.oceangrafix.com) and of NOAA, which is safety at sea.

Called OG News, http://www.ixfr.com/survey.asp?IX=e_e_e_mig_jkf_e_gmfn&SL=hkjm, the monthly e-news is objective in nature, with articles focusing on sailing and charting information, education for experienced and novice mariners alike, and the importance of using NOAA paper nautical charts along with electronic navigational systems. OG News launched its first issue with more than 3,000 subscribers.

"We researched newsletters for recreational mariners and found most to be product-focused or promotional in nature", states Larry Kocon, Business Director, OceanGrafix. "Our main goal in planning OG News was to provide truly helpful information, focused on mariner safety and education. A secondary goal was to ensure that mariners are more aware of how, and how often, nautical chart data is updated, and how NOAA paper charts should be used with electronic systems for optimum safety and fail-safe backup."

The topic of chart updates was a key driver behind the launching of OG News, and research supported the need for such information to be disseminated to mariners.

An extensive December, 2008 survey by OceanGrafix and USPS (United States Power Squadrons) found that recreational mariners in general don't pay a lot of attention to official NOAA chart updates: 55% do not update their NOAA charts using the Local Notice to Mariners (LNMs), which are important, ongoing chart updates provided weekly by each of the nine U.S. Coast Guard Districts; and 88% of mariners either are not aware of, or don't normally obtain, a new NOAA chart when it is issued as a new "Edition", which brings the chart fully up to date with all LNMs and other changes deemed important by NOAA.

OceanGrafix, http://www.oceangrafix.com, is an official USPS partner and they have signed a joint Memorandum of Understanding where both parties promote boating safety and education.

Analytics from the OceanGrafix website also contributed to its decision to launch OG News: research showed that the demand for objective sailing, charting and safety news is very strong, as evidenced by its highly popular Resources Page, http://www.oceangrafix.com/o.g/OceanGrafix-Nautical-Charts-Info.html. The company found that as it continually added helpful, non-promotional content to its Resources Page, that the page quickly became the most popular page (among 26 pages on its site) in terms of visitors' time spent.

Articles in upcoming issues of OG News will cover topics such as: how NOAA updates its charts; how to combine GPS with charts for optimum safety, how charts become out of date; NOAA Local Notice to Mariners and Editions; "chart kits" versus full sized charts; how today's technologies allow charts to be 100% up to date (printed on demand); a video (http://www.youtube.com/B2Binc#p/u/1/iR0brOhSB1s) on how to fold a NOAA chart, and more.

"Our plan is for OG News to be around for a long time, and for it to be considered a valuable resource for information on safe boating," says Mr. Kocon.

The World’s Biggest Sport Fishing Website Just Got a Whole Lot Bigger

rtbb — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:16:57 +0000