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In response to a federal court order, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a draft permit for millions of recreational vessels for “normal operational discharges” that could open a Pandora’s box of compliance problems and unfairly subject recreational boaters – including those who own canoes and kayaks - to potential nuisance lawsuits.
The EPA draft puts boaters and anglers squarely under new Clean Water Act regulations that go into effect September 30, 2008. The permit requires boaters to comply with a set of worrisome national requirements as well as additional state requirements “to be determined.” Penalties carry up to a $32,500 daily fine for each violation.
Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatU.S.) is urging all boaters and anglers to contact their federal lawmakers to bring corrective legislation to the Senate and House floor for a full vote as soon as possible. The Clean Boating Act of 2008 - S. 2766 in the Senate and H.R. 5949 in the House of Representatives - would restore the federal exemption for recreational vessels for “normal operational discharges” that has been in existence for the past 35 years until the federal courts recently determined otherwise.
“Boaters want clean waters and want to do their fair share, but the draft EPA permit unfairly burdens them with needless regulation,” said BoatU.S. Vice President of Government Affairs Margaret Podlich. “The federal courts required EPA to draft a permitting regime that puts individual boaters under the same penalty system as corporate industries even though discharges from a rowing dinghy or motor boat are quite different than those from a large commercial ship with ballast water,” said Podlich.
The draft permit would allow the EPA, the U.S. Coast Guard, a state authority or some private contractor to inspect a boat and take discharge samples. If requested, a boater would be required to provide such government officials with information to determine permit compliance. “What may appear quite simple on the surface will be anything but in reality,” said Podlich. “What happens if a neighbor – who perhaps may not appreciate boats – decides that you use too much biodegradable soap to wash your boat, witnesses an accidentally spilled orange juice draining out of the scuppers, or sees you wipe algae off the scum line? Under the present draft permit guidelines, all of these instances may be deemed a violation of the Clean Water Act,” added Podlich. “Even topping off a fuel tank, which is recommended for winter storage of today’s ethanol-laden gasoline, could be considered a violation,” she added.
Also included in the draft EPA permit is the onerous requirement that every state must approve the federal permit before this September 30. Each state may add on its own regulations, potentially creating multiple requirements for boaters cruising between states. After the initial permit this fall, the EPA will then outline for the states how they can implement their own permit systems, which could result in additional state modifications of the permit requirements as well as fees for boaters.
To contact your federal legislators, learn more about the Clean Boating Act of 2008, or to make comments on the draft EPA permit by August 1 go to www.BoatUS.com/gov
BoatU.S. is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters with over 650,000 members. The Association has been working with the National Marine Manufacturers Association and other groups to seek a viable solution to the proposed EPA draft permitting system.
Capt. Bill Wechter, a commercial fisherman, has opened Vessel Assist Newport. The on-the-water towing service for boaters and fishermen is located at South Beach Marina on Yaquina Bay and provides 24-hour-a-day assistance, including tows back to a marina or launch ramp, battery jump starts, fuel drop offs, or ungrounding services. Vessel Assist Newport is the second Vessel Assist port on the Yaquina River and the fifth in Oregon.
Wechter, who holds a USCG 100-ton Captain’s license, has equipped the towing port with two response boats – a 44-foot, former Coast Guard motor lifeboat and a 25-foot Tolly Craft. Both vessels can be identified by their distinctive red hulls, white bow stripes and “Vessel Assist” lettering along their sides. Onboard each is a full complement of towing and salvage equipment including extra fuel, engine fluids, pumps, and a battery “jump pack” to handle dead batteries.
Similar to a roadside auto club, BoatU.S. offers on-the-water assistance plans starting at just $37 a year. Without a towing plan, boaters face costs that nationally average about $600 per incident. Capt. Wechter says that with temperatures now on the rise, trailer boaters have returned to the region’s great fishing grounds. He adds that he expects to see a fair amount of calls for assistance this summer due to mechanical breakdowns and fuel problems. BoatU.S. 24-hour Dispatch Centers received over 60,000 calls for assistance nationwide from boaters last year.
Capt. Wechter grew up in Eugene, OR and began fishing out of Newport in the summers before being called to serve in the U.S. Coast Guard during the Vietnam war. He later worked as a firefighter and emergency medical technician in California for four years before resuming his career as a commercial fisherman in Newport where he has since raised a family of five children with his wife, Amy.
Boaters in need of towing assistance can reach Vessel Assist Newport by calling the company directly at 541-961-1886; by VHF radio on channel 16; or through the BoatU.S. toll-free Dispatch Service at 800-391-4869 or visit http://www.BoatUS.com/Towing for more information.
Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatU.S.) is the nation's leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its 650,000 members with a wide array of consumer services, including on-the-water towing assistance provided by TowBoatU.S. and Vessel Assist Pacific. Combined, these two towing fleets offer North American boaters the largest network of U.S., Canadian and Bahamian towing ports with over 280 locations and nearly 500 towing assistance vessels - twice that of any other service provider.
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contains information on approximately 200 boat ramps available to New Jersey anglers. This is a great information resource on ramps on the Delaware River, Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Coast from New York to Cape May. For details of the Boat Ramp Guide, chek web site www.njfishandwildlife.com/pdf/boat_ramp_guide.pdf - in PDF format, requiring the free Acrobat Reader to view and print.
A web version, containing a Google Maps image showing all ramp locations, is available at http://www.njboatramps.org/ .
Free hard copies of the Ramp Guide can be ordered on www.njboatramps.org .
If you're looking for a watch that can do almost everything, and one that is very useful when paddling and working at it strenuously, check out the LifeFitness Dual Watch & Heart Rate Monitor. Not only does it function like a standard sports watch, but includes an alarm function, and ActiveEKG -- an advanced heart rate sensing technology that measures the electrical signals on your skin in the same manner that an EKG or electrocardiogram does.
The watch attaches to your wrist with an attractive band (available either in small for small wrists, or full-size to fit medium to large size wrists, and uses its ActiveEKG to measure your heart rate. The watch, for men or women, has a large, easy-to-read LCD screen, and is easy to use while monitoring your heart rate while exercising. Simply place two fingers onto the watch; press the sensors gently for about 3-8 seconds. When you hear the beep tone, the heart rate will be displayed.
While getting a pedicure and checking my heart rate for the fun of it, the person next to me asked what I was doing. When I explained, she borrowed the watch to check her heart rate and, before long, everyone in the salon was trying it-- and wanted to know where it's sold.
This watch is available at CVS pharmacies or at web site www.cvs.com for $59.99.
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Often it's the small details that add a touch of class to a boat's interior. Beckson Marine's elegant Anodized Aluminum Cup and Glass Holders are sure to impress the crew and guests.
Designed as an upgrade to Beckson's original plastic Recessed Drink Holders, the aluminum models are attractive additions to the deck, galley, helm seat, dashboard, table or tow vehicle. They are especially suited for OEMs or as aftermarket accessories.
Available colors to match a boat's color scheme include black, blue, red and clear, with gold as a special order. With a 3-5/8" ID x 3-5/16" depth x 4-3/8" flange OD, the Anodized Aluminum Cupholders can be inserted into seat armrests or caulked into hard surfaces, eliminating the need for fasteners.
Beckson Marine manufactures an extensive array of ports, hatches, windows, deck plates, pumps, ventilators, equipment holders and hoses.
The suggested retail price of Beckson Marine GH40AL Anodized Aluminum Cupholders is $15.75 each.
For more information contact Beckson Marine, 165 Holland Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06605. sales@beckson.com; www.beckson.com.
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A vexing problem that occurs for both boat manufacturers, and ultimately, the owner, is how to install the motor cable boot without disturbing the cable settings. MarineEast, known for its creative solutions to common problems, has the answer—split the outer grommet and inner ball in half.
By splitting the sections, it allows for installation of the grommet without disturbing the gear and throttle cable settings. This permits easy replacement of the motor well boots after aging and failure.
The outer covers are made of marine-grade composites. The inner flange has a large area for bedding compound in the motor well or transom. The inner ball is made of a low-durometer, soft sealing material that allows the ball to swivel into its most efficient position for easy cable operation.
The innovative grommet is offered in versatile sizes. The small version features a 7/8" base opening, 1" ball and one 1/2" hole. The large has a choice of either a 1-1/2" or 2" base opening, 2" ball and the option of one large 1" hole or three smaller holes. Available in standard black, white or silver, the Control Cable Grommets from MarineEast have suggested retail prices starting at $6.65.
For more information, contact MarineEast, 802 Mantoloking Rd., Brick, NJ 08723. 732-477-7484; Fax: 732-477-4848. marineeast@aol.com; www.marineeast.com.
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Every spring and fall, lakeshore residents face the headache of dragging their boatlifts in and out of the water. To make the job a lot easier and faster, Premier Materials Technology offers a wheel kit that lets the boatlift roll in and out effortlessly on heavy-duty plastic wheels.
Premier's easy-to-install IWP-65 Lift Mounting Kit includes two, maintenance-free, 24"-diameter wheels with an 8"-wide tread that roll easily and smoothly on all terrain. The wheels have high stress/crack resistance, 1000-pound capacity and excellent impact properties at low temperatures. They resist damage by animals, ice and prolonged contact with petroleum products.
The kit also contains two, 7-3/8"-long axle shim tubes and four zinc-plated, steel mounting plates and fasteners that clamp to the lift's lower frame members. The brackets and wheels fit a 1-1/2"-diameter galvanized steel axle or, when using the supplied adapter sleeve, will fit a 1-1/4"-diameter axle. The kit is designed to fit boatlifts with two different frames sizes.
List price of Premier's Lift Mounting Kit with two wheels is $152.
For more information contact Premier Materials Technology, 7401 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55432; Phone: Toll-Free 1-800-262-2275; Fax: 1-763-785-1509; info@premiermaterials.com; www.premiermaterials.com
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Magma has always known that one of the keys to a great boat barbecue is having it securely mounted in a convenient location. This is why Magma Products offers more mounting options than any other grill maker, including their newest Rotating Flush Deck Socket Mount and Rotating Surface Deck Socket Mounts.
Both the Flush Deck Socket Mount and the Surface Deck Socket Mount are made of 18-8 stainless steel and feature a stainless detent pin, which lets the grill rotate and lock in eight different positions. Both models can be moved inboard or outboard. The rod portion of the mounts quickly disconnects for compact storage. A rain cap is included with the Flush Deck Socket Mount.
Magma’s grills recently swept all classes as the “Best Choice” in both Practical Sailor and Power Boat Reports magazines. Magma Products is the world’s largest manufacturer of all-stainless steel grills and the only major supplier of US-made onboard boat grills. The product line includes onboard boat grills, residential stainless steel grills, grilling accessories, propane accessories, serving tables, fishing and filet tables, stainless steel cookware, boat umbrellas, stabilizers and outriggers.
Retail price for both the Rotating Flush Deck and the Rotating Surface Deck Socket Mount is $56.95.
For more information or the name of the nearest Magma dealer, contact Magma Products 3940 Pixie Ave., Lakewood, CA 90712; Telephone: 562-627-0500; Email: Mail@MagmaProducts.com; or visit their web site at www.MagmaProducts.com
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Ditty bags are handy to hold valuables and everyday essentials, but where's a good place to store the bag onboard? Beckson Marine has the answer with its Ditty Bag Kit. With it, the empty space beneath a Beckson Screw-Out Deck Plate converts into a clever storage space.
By simply adding the kit's retaining ring to the plate, the supplied drawstring bag hangs upright and secure. Under the closed plate, a bag filled with watches, keys, wallets and other valuables is safe, dry and easy to access.
A Ditty Bag Kit is available to retrofit each of Beckson's 4", 6", and 8" Screw-Out Deck Plates. The 12"-long bags are big enough to hold small tools, hardware, sunscreen and other necessities. The ditty bag is also great to carry items ashore.
Beckson Marine's 4" Ditty Bag Kit retails for $16.25, the 6" kit for $17.30 and the 8" kit for $18.55.
For more information, contact Beckson Marine, 165 Holland Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06605. sales@beckson.com; www.beckson.com.
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The Johnny Bar is a kayak accessory attachment system that allows rod holders, fish finders, GPS units, outriggers, camera boxes, and just about anything one can think to attach to a kayak, to be attached to a kayak without having to permanently mount them. The Johnny Bar attaches to a kayak's existing deck hardware and can be added and removed in a matter of seconds.
The manufacturer's suggsted retail price is $69.99. For more information, check web site www.harmonygear.com.
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Serious anglers and pleasure boaters alike usually enjoy having refreshments onboard. But when it comes to reeling in the big catch or steering the boat through a crowded marina, it helps to have both hands available. Tempress Products has come out with its Folding Drink Holder to secure drinks when they can’t be held.
The new Folding Drink Holder also features a double-ring collar assembly capable of holding both cans and cans with cozies so that drinks can stay within reach and stay cold, too. With its all-resin design, the drink holder won’t rust or corrode; it's injection molded with commercial grade resin that provides superior durability and an attractive appearance. Few moving parts results in a longer, more reliable product life. The holder can be mounted with Tempress’ Super-Suction cups or screw mounted.
The Folding Drink Holders are available in packages of two for approximately $12.99 retail. For more information, contact Tempress Products, 5052 Sharp St., Dallas, TX 75247; 1-877-234-7466, or check web site www.tempress.com.
When perfectly positioned to land a prize catch, anglers need a dependable anchor. That's why they trust Slide Anchor's Box Anchor to hold tight in any water depth, bottom conditions or severe weather.
With no chain and weighing only 13 lbs., the Box Anchor won't load down small boats, so anglers can quickly get to the fish. Using only half the usual anchor line, the Box Anchor's fixed scoop design and narrow side panels quickly set it like a cookie cutter in sand, mud, grass or rock.
Its narrow side panels also eliminate upward resistance for easy retrieval. Should wind or current change, the Box Anchor rolls over and resets in seconds. A stainless steel stabilizing arm and spring make it easy to lock open. The Box Anchor collapses flat for compact storage.
This unique anchor comes in four models, each with a storage bag. A 13-lb. "Baby" is perfect for bass boats and costs $109.95. The 20-lb. "Small" retails for $129.95 to hold sport boats 18'-30' or cabin cruisers to 24', while the 25-lb. "Large" is for sport boats to 40' and cabin cruisers to 32' and costs $159.95. The 38-lb. "Ex-Large" holds houseboats and cruisers over 32' and is $229.95. A list of Slide Anchor retail outlets is available at www.slideanchor.com.
For more information contact Slide Anchor, 1751 Industrial Blvd., Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403. 928-855-1108; Fax 928-855-1918. slideanchor@msn.com; www.slideanchor.com.
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Constantly correcting and retying anchor line in changing water levels is a huge hassle. The Danik-Hook from Slide Anchor makes it possible to anchor without ever having to tie a knot in the line again.
Quick and easy to use, the convenient Danik-Hook accepts rode 3/8" to 5/8" in diameter and adjusts in just seconds. Compatible with polyester, nylon, braided and twisted line, one end of the line is fixed to the anchor and the other simply slides through the passage in the hook.
Made of marine-grade 304 stainless steel with a custom bead blast finish, the durable anchor system allows line to move freely when holding the lever down. When released, the unique mechanism grips at the desired position.
The user-friendly device effortlessly hooks to the boat for easy mooring anywhere. Featuring an integrated ring for a buoy line, the Danik-Hook can also save a prime anchoring spot while out boating.
The innovative Danik-Hook from Slide Anchor has a suggested retail price of around $35. A list of Slide Anchor retail outlets is available at www.slideanchor.com.
Contact Slide Anchor, 1751 Industrial Blvd., Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403. 928-855-1108; Fax 928-855-1918. slideanchor@msn.com; www.slideanchor.com.
While an antenna mount may not be the most elegant item on a modern boat, it certainly doesn't have to be ugly. Determined to changes this stigma, Shakespeare Electronics introduces the stylish, strong and functional, new 5187 Ratchet Mount to spice up any craft.
The stunning mount provides a sophisticated appearance that complements any boat. Its simple lines arrive from an innovative nutless, boltless design.
Featuring a beautiful mirror-like finish and stainless steel construction, this four-way, free-standing Ratchet Mount employs standard 1"-14 threads. Easy to fit, the versatile and adjustable mount can be installed on vertical, horizontal and slanted surfaces. To ensure the antenna is mounted as vertically as possible, the teeth on Shakespeare's Ratchet Mount allow adjustments of 5°, rather than the standard 10° increments.
The antenna cable may be routed through the unique cable slot on the side of the mount for a streamlined look. It also eliminates the need to remove most factory-installed connectors.
The classy 5187 Ratchet Mount from Shakespeare Electronics has a suggested retail price of $82.95. Mounting hardware sold separately.
Shakespeare Electronics is a leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, reliable antennas for marine applications.
Contact Shakespeare Electronic Products Group, 6111 Shakespeare Rd., Columbia, SC 29223. 803-227-1590; Fax: 803-419-3099. www.shakespeare-marine.com.
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Satellite radio opens up a world of listening options for boaters. Shakespeare's tiny new Galaxy Style SRA-25 Sirius Satellite Radio Antenna makes it easy to tap into a wide variety of commercial-free stations.
Specially-designed for smaller boats that navigate inland waters, the sleek SRA-25 measures only 3/4" H x 2-3/8" W x 2" L when installed. Small as it is, the innovative antenna delivers plenty, including weather, news, music, sports and entertainment from Sirius Satellite Radio.
Offering a variety of simple mounting options, it comes with a 25' coax cable and can be installed with or without running the cable through the mounting surface. Longer cables are available for larger craft. When mounting the SRA-25, it is important to have a clear view of the horizon. To locate the best possible spot, a helpful satellite shooter template is included.
It attaches to surfaces up to 1" thick by a 9/16" diameter threaded shaft. To secure the antenna to any flat surface where access to the area underneath is difficult, a convenient SM-32 Surface Mount Kit is included.
Built for the harsh marine environment, the Galaxy Style SRA-25 Sirius Satellite Radio Antenna from Shakespeare retails for $74.95. A separate Sirius receiver and subscription are required.
For details contact Shakespeare Electronic Products Group, 6111 Shakespeare Rd., Columbia, SC 29223. 803-227-1590; Fax: 803-419-3099, or check web site
www.shakespeare-marine.com.
Serious canoeing for people that don't take life too seriously. Members are taught low impact camping mehtods and the advanced paddling techniques needed to get the most out of his/her paddling experience. Trips vary in length and difficulty from easy 8 mile day trips to 2 weeks long, 100 plus mile trips in the Everglades, northern Maine or Paddle& Portage trips in the Adirondacks.
Provides opportunites for group paddling through member-organized trips, skills sessions, and club sponsored picnics and events. Members also enjoy discounts with selected ACA instructors and retailers. JSSKA is committed to protecting our waterways and has participated in clean-up activities throughout the paddling season.
Visit the JSSKA web site at www.jsska.org to find an event calendar, extensive launch site directory, and trip planning and discussins on the Paddlers Express forum.
BoatU.S. - Boat Owners Association of The United States - is the nation's leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its 670,000 members with a wide array of consumer services including a group-rate marine insurance program that insures nearly a quarter million boats; the largest fleet of more than 500 towing assistance vessels; discounts on fuel, slips, and repairs at over 835 Cooperating Marinas; boat financing; and a subscription to BoatU.S. Magazine, the most widely read boating publication in the U.S.
For membership information check web site www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628.
Marketing organization that represents the easternmost regions of the province of Quebec: Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspesie, Cote-Nord and Iles de la Madeleine. Quebec maritime is a land of adventure. With over 1900 miles (3000 kilometers of coastlin and a network of 9 national parks, Quebec maritime is an ideal destination for sea kayakers. Paddle with the whales on the magnificent St. Lawrence River, approach the famous Perce Rock by water, or explore renowned rivers such as the Magpie and Bonaventure.
The National outdoor Leadership School is the leader in wilderness education. Courses are offered from 10 days to a full academic year for people of all ages in some of the world's most awe-inspiring backcountry classrooms. Students develop technical outdoor skills, strong environmental ethics, and active, positive leadership skills that stay with them for a lifetime. NOLS runs kayaking, canoeing and sea kayaking courses all over the world with college credit available.
For more information, chekc web site www.nols.edu.
Listening to high fidelity music just got easier for boaters who like to bring their favorite tunes onboard. With Prospec Electronics' new SEA USBMINI plug, they can now listen to their iPod and satellite radio or hook up a laptop, eliminating the hassle of additional wiring. TV and movie soundtracks are enhanced by plugging the audio output of the TV, VCR or DVD into the SEA USBMINI.
A compact auxiliary input, the SEA USBMINI produces ideal sound quality by transmitting audio from an MP3, DVD player or VHF radio through the boat's speakers via the USB. Standard RCA plugs also are included for non-USB compatible devices. It works with most Prospec JBL and SeaWorthy stereos.
SEA USBMINI's wiring is neatly hidden simply by drilling a discreet 1-5/16" diameter hole. Supplied with 8' of cable, the suggested retail price of Prospec's SEA USBMINI plug is $29.95.
Contact Prospec Electronics, 3325 Hwy. 17 N., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466. www.prospecelectronics.com.
Owning a boat of any size is a significant investment in both time and money. Now protecting midsize yachts is easy with 18" x 29" Inflatable Fenders from AERÉ®.
One AERÉ customer has personally experienced AERÉ's reliability. "I am absolutely convinced that my 18" x 29" AERÉ fenders prevented me from having serious hull damage. An idiot threw us a 3-4 foot wake while we were tied to a concrete dock. The [vinyl] ball fenders I previously used would simply have flipped upward and left the entire starboard side vulnerable."
He has referred a number of boat owners to AERÉ. "One only need consider the value of what's being protected to understand the value of fenders entrusted with the job," he said.
AERÉ 18" x 29" fenders, made from heavy, high denier polyester fabric, protect boats from 40' to 45' long. They are easy to inflate and come in 9 colors. The durable fenders are able to withstand high compression loads capable of collapsing conventional vinyl fenders. Like all AERÉ fenders, when not in use, they fold away flat, saving valuable onboard space.
Retail prices for AERÉ Inflatable Fenders begin at $149.
For more information contact AERÉ', 12207 NW 35th St., Coral Springs, FL 33605; 954-345-2373; Fax: 954-344-1414; info@praktek.com; www.praktek.com.
BoatU.S. ANGLER magazine premieres this month (March 2008), the first of three issues delivered each year to members of the BoatU.S. ANGLER program, select fishing clubs and West Marine locations across the United States. The new magazine’s goal is to provide fishing information to boat owning anglers among the 650,000 members of the association and to spread the word of its specialty services for fishermen.
Mike Pellerin, director of the BoatU.S. ANGLER program is editor-in-chief and Taylor Wilson is managing editor. BoatU.S. ANGLER features will include fishing and boating information from experts, and the latest on bass, walleye and crappie as well as near-shore saltwater angling. Writers will include Bill Dance on bass, Wally Marshall on crappie, Gary Roach on walleye, and Nick Honachefsky on stripers and near-shore species.
In addition, readers can get answers to angling questions from pro angler and guide Steve Chaconas and fishing legend Bill Dance in the magazine’s Angling Answers column.
Each issue will offer something for the entire family, including recipes, young angler stories and tips, quizzes and crossword puzzles. The overall goal is to make fishing a more enjoyable and a safe, worry-free pastime. Other regular topics will include technical tips and advice, trailering information, boating safety, conservation and do-it-yourself articles from other award-winning BoatU.S. publications. The magazine will also promote the association’s various benefits such as specialized fishing boat insurance, on-the-water and on-the-road towing assistance programs, discounts at BoatU.S. Cooperating Marinas and member rebates on equipment purchased at West Marine stores.
Have you found a great off season deal on a used boat and want to know if there have been any manufacturer recalls that needed correction or major complaints from other owners? Are you comfortable with the fine print in a sales contract?
The answers to these questions and many more are answered in a free guide, Buying and Selling a Boat, from BoatU.S. Consumer Affairs and available online at web site www.BoatUS.com/guide.
The 34-page guide will help prospective boat owners navigate unfamiliar waters and remind the seasoned boat owner of landmarks to steer by and trouble spots to avoid when trading up or selling. Unlike buying an automobile, the guide explains what to look for when buying a new or used boat, such as manufacturing standards, surveys and sea trials. Also likely to be unfamiliar to the new boat owner - and clearly spelled out in the guide - is information on warranties, federal documentation, osmotic blisters, marine insurance and boat loans.
Important information is also included on how to use the BoatU.S. Consumer Bureau's free services, including the boating industry's only Recall Alert Registry that tracks safety defects for new and subsequent boat owners. Also covered is the Association's unique national online complaint database for boats, engines and service providers as well as information on the BoatU.S. dispute mediation program.
For sellers, there's a checklist to help evaluate your boat's condition, information on the pros and cons of selling on your own versus using a broker, and how to write a sales agreement.
BoatU.S. - Boat Owners Association of The United States - is the nation's leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its 670,000 members with a wide array of consumer services including a group-rate marine insurance program that insures nearly a quarter million boats; the largest fleet of more than 500 towing assistance vessels; discounts on fuel, slips, and repairs at over 835 Cooperating Marinas; boat financing; and a subscription to BoatU.S. Magazine, the most widely read boating publication in the U.S.
For membership information check web site www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628.
A material that can take a beating and remain beautiful now comes in six new colors. With marine and RV applications, WeatherMax 80 satisfies customers' tastes and exacting specifications while standing up to the most severe weather conditions.
In addition to its 10 popular colors, patent pending WeatherMax 80 by Safety Components Fabric Technologies is now available in Graphite, Scarlet, Sand, Silver, Taupe and Cobalt. Used for boat covers, bimini tops and other marine applications, the durable fabric uses solution-dyed Satura yarns. It's guaranteed to be fade-resistant up to 5 years and is far superior to solution-dyed polyester.
"This is a demand-driven decision for us," stated John Pierce, WeatherMax product manager for SCFTI. "Our customers have been requesting these colors so they can use WeatherMax in more applications."
Weighing only 8 oz. per square yard, WeatherMax 80 is easy to work with and store. Though lightweight, tests prove it has twice the strength and tear-resistance of acrylics. It will not sag, repels water better and is six times more resistant to abrasion. The exclusive HydroMax Finish prevents mildew and won't crack in cold weather.
WeatherMax 80 comes in 75-yard rolls with a 60" usable width. The six new colors join Pacific Blue, Captain Navy, Yellow, Forest Green, True Red, Toast, Burgundy, Light Charcoal, Black and White. It retails for $12 to $15 per yard.
For more information ontact WeatherMax by Safety Components Fabric Technologies, 40 Emery St., Greenville, SC 29602. 864-240-2712; Fax: 864-240-5947. www.weathermax.net.
BoatU.S. Angler, part of BoatU.S., with more than 650,000 members nationwide, now offers a commercial guide insurance policy for fishing guides to meet their unique boating needs.
"We know that a guide's boat and equipment are essential to success," said Michael Pellerin, director of the BoatU.S. Angler program. "That's why we developed a commercial guide's policy that not only meets the unique needs of boating, but includes the best protection for the other aspects of his or her business. It covers both personal and commercial use, including tournaments."
Coverage is available for boats under 24 feet operating with up to three guests. Policy features include:
· Agreed value coverage for boat, engine and trailer.
· Liability coverage and legal representation against suits or claims.
· Medical payments coverage for the guide and customers, up to $10,000 per person.
· Fishing equipment coverage for the guide and customers, up to $5,000 per incident.
· Uninsured boater protection, for injuries caused by an uninsured or hit-and-run boater.
· Generous cruising area for fishing fresh and salt waters of the U.S. and Canada without an extension.
In addition, 24-hour emergency dispatch for fire, sinking, fuel spill, even roadside accidents and quick claims service is included.
BoatU.S. Angler is a new program from the nation's largest association of recreational boaters whose mission is to protect the interests of boat-owning anglers, increase boating safety, provide consumer assistance and ensure fishing remains worry-free. For more information, call (866) 532-1829 or visit online at www.BoatUSAngler.com/insurance
The new eight foot bass boat, called the Bass Baby, is a perfect fit for female anglers. Produced by Connect-A-Dock, it weighs a mere 143 pounds and has easy- grip handles and integrated wheels, so it’s easy to push or pull like a wheelbarrow. Getting it to the lake is very simple since it fits in back of a full-size pickup truck, making a trailer unnecessary. Durable and easy to maintain, the portable fishing boat is made of polyethylene plastic to resist oil, gas, UV rays and saltwater. With its two swiveling bucket seats that slide on heavy-duty seat frames, it'’ also comfortable - plus it sports four, no-spill cup holders, a molded in ruler and a tackle compartment to keep equipment secure. When not in use, the boat stores upright in the garage. Front and rear mounts allow for dual motor control and can handle a 2-hp engine. The Bass Baby meets strict US Coast Guard safety regulations, is rated to carry 475 pounds, and measures 54” x 96”, and comes with a two-year warranty.
For information, contact Bass Baby, 1000 Flag Road, Adair, IA 50022; 641-742-3071.
Mad River Canoe's New Synergy
Mad River's new Synergy canoe blends the best attributes of a sit-on-top kayak with thcm.anoe.crose of a canoe for a truly unique boat that offers a great alternative to conventional sit-on-tops. The Synergy has exceptional stability and high carrying capacity with its generous fore and aft storage areas, which feature custom fit mesh covers. Offered in 12 and 14 foot models with an optional rudder or angler package, the Synergy has adjustable foot braces, padded seat and backrest.
The manufacturer's suggested retail price, depending on length and outfitting, is $750 to $1235. For more information, check web site www.madrivercanoe.com.
The Agent, Dagger's latest high performance whitewater playboat, has quick edge to edge transition while retaining hull speed for explosive bounce off waves allowing paddlers to push aerial creativity and pioneer new aerial maneuvers. Add the included IR Overthruster and the performance and pop goes through the roof. The Agent, available in three sizes for paddlers ranging in size from 80 to 225 pounds, features Dagger's new outfitting including thermo molded foam seat pad, hip pads and backband.
The manufactuer's suggested retail price is $925. For more information check web site www.dagger.com.
One of the best self-bailing, leisure kayaks is now available - the CK 100 Catamaran/Kayak. It’s hull has been shaped for less resistance to achieve higher speeds on the water, and it sports a refined, textured, streamlined design which provides superior stability, exceptional tracking and an efficient glide. With its convenient pull-strap and bungee tie-down integrated into the hull without the use of any hardware, it will stand up to salt or fresh water, and the ultra-comfortable folding backrest and aluminum scratch guards protect the hull. Standard features include graduated foot braces to accommodate children and adults alike, a molded-in beverage holder, a built-in side paddle holder, and a buoyant, spoon-shaped paddle with drip guards that reduce splash. While out on long adventures, paddlers will find the optional watertight storage compartment and bungee tie-down cords ideal for taking along personal belongings. Use the pull strap for walks along the shore and the new backrest that folds down to use storage space on the beach more efficiently. Available in Sunburst Yellow and Riviera Blue, constructed of UV-treated, durable polyethylene, the CK 100 is 127” long x 27” wide x 20” high and has a carrying capacity of 250 pounds, but weighs only 55 pounds. Suggested retail cost is $360.
For more information contact Future Beach Corp, 181 Oneida Drive, Pointe-Claire, Quebeck H9R 1A9, Canada; 800-357-7837 or check web site www.futurebeach.com.
Hobie has not been resting on their laurels after the successful 2006 launch of the Hobie Mirage® Adventure Fish solo and Hobie Mirage Outfitter Fish tandem pedal-driven fishing boats. Now by popular demand comes the hybrid Hobie Mirage Revolution Fish with the speed of the Adventure Fish, capacity of the Outback Fish, and maneuverability of the Sport Fish. Returning favorites to the lineup include Hank Parker’s Limited Edition signature models, the large capacity Hobie Mirage Outback Fish, and smaller Hobie Mirage Sport Fish, as well as the Hobie Quest Fish for those who prefer to paddle instead of pedal.
There is no learning curve on any of Hobie’s fishing boats. All six provide easy-to-use, stable, and efficient alternatives to traditional fishing boats. They enhance the fishing experience with elevated padded seating and speed to get to the best spots quickly; maneuver easily on shallow flats, rivers, lakes, and oceans and are easy to transport and store. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife estimates the number of adults in the U.S. who fish at 42.1 million. Hobie’s goal is to provide boats to meet all levels of expertise and help keep that number growing.
Hobie did not just stop with a new boat. A series of fishing-friendly accessories make it possible for anglers to customize boats to fit their own preferences. All fishing boats will now come standard with the new Plug-In Hobie Trax Cart complete with pneumatic wheels for easy rolling of heavy loads over rough terrain and soft sand. Three new Gear Buckets are also part of the package, each stored in a mesh bag that fits into the eight-inch hatches. Optional accessories include ST Turbo Fins that can increase boat speed by over ten percent and an inflatable Sidekick Ama Kit (think Hawaiian Outrigger) for extra stability while standing. Hunters and bird-watchers will especially appreciate the Hobie Camo Dodger to hide leg movement and Bimini to shield the sun.
Hands-Free Fishing
Hank Parker, well known and respected in the world of fishing, enthusiastically endorses the unique pedal-driven, sit-on-top MirageDrive boats as a “new way to fish” for the approximately 82 percent of freshwater anglers, as well as the remaining 18 percent of those who troll the saltwater. He believes that Hobie’s pedal-driven boats are “waking up” fishing, and that they “can take you effortlessly and quickly to places where fish have never seen a lure.”
Hobie's patented MirageDrive pedal mechanism is connected to two underwater flippers, much like penguin wings, enabling anglers to propel themselves quickly and effortlessly. Steering is controlled via a left side, fingertip-controlled rudder system, making it easy to cast, hook, and land fish while maneuvering to that secret spot. The rudder can be rotated out of the way for chopping through weeds in very shallow water and for transport or storage. Rudder steering lines are made from Spectra, the world’s strongest fiber, up to 15 times stronger than quality steel. The combination of the MirageDrive rudder system and the hull design ensures a stable ride and enables anglers to cover long distances with little or no fatigue, even against the current or in windy conditions.
The Lineup
is the MirageDrive version of the popular Quest Fish paddle boat. Both models are fast and efficient enough to get to the fish quickly, but with plenty of stability for a stress-free, relaxed-pace outing. Fishing-friendly features include abundant storage capacity, an eight-inch and a large 13-inch bow-hatch with space for an optional eight-inch hatch in the stern, two rear molded-in rod holders, and a console with a utility tray and flat area that can be customized with additional equipment. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets provide easy-access storage for tackle and tools. Cup holders ensure that thirst can be easily quenched, whatever the flavor.
is a 16-foot fishing machine, the fastest solo fishing boat in the fleet and the boat with the most legroom. With its large storage capacity, it can carry all the gear necessary for extended fishing trips and/or overnight camping. At 12 feet eight inches, the Hobie Mirage Outfitter Fish adds a short and light tandem MirageDrive boat to the fishing line. Both models feature the patent-pending, Twist and Stow rudder that can be lifted and turned to lay flat on deck when not in use, whether in the water, on top of the car, or in storage. Patent-pending Twist and Seal hatches open and close effortlessly with a simple turn of the handle, are highly water resistant, feature a smooth nonskid surface, and seal with a compression O-ring.
According to the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation, over one quarter of all anglers are female, and most people are introduced to fishing at a young age by a family member. The Hobie Mirage Sport Fish, Hank Parker Edition, is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users, including these important demographics. At a lightweight 45 pounds, it is designed with a unique adjustable seat, which accommodates four-foot youths to six-foot adults. As the seat is moved forward, the adjustable pedals move backward, shortening the distance for smaller anglers, and vice versa for taller anglers. The Hobie Mirage Outback Fish, Hank Parker Edition. is longer and faster for those who want to carry more and get to their fishing destination of choice in a hurry. Both boats are easily transportable in the back of a pickup truck or on a roof rack, eliminating the bother of hauling a trailer.
NFL Hall of Famer, Jackie Smith, is an avid proponent of Hobie’s MirageDrive boats. “The only way to appreciate the uniqueness of Hobie’s MirageDrive boats is to just get in one and experience it. I have fished all my life, and these boats, with their innovative design, are in a category of their own. They not only give anglers unique advantages, they also bring back the essence of the fishing experience. For anyone questioning the stability of a fishing kayak, 6-foot, 4-inch Jackie added that, “I’ve used my Hobie in the wake of barges on the Mississippi and I’ve gone upstream on the Illinois river when it was flooding. These boats are remarkably stable.”
MODEL SPECIFICATIONS
All Hobie kayaks are constructed of seamless rotomolded Super-Linear II polyethylene hulls and are designed with an open-deck construction and angler-friendly features, including molded-in utility trays, rod holders with caps, and room for tackle, and ample storage. Deluxe two-piece paddles and deluxe, padded back-support seatbacks are included with every model. All six models are available in the new Khaki and Moss, as well as popular Safety Orange.
Hobie Mirage Adventure Fish
Length: 16’ Width: 27.5” Hull Weight: 62 lbs Mirage Drive Weight: 6.6 lbs Capacity: 350 lbs
Additional Standard Features: Oversize forward hatch. Two eight-inch Twist and Seal hatches. Twist and Stow rudder that can lie flat on the deck. Three New Gear Buckets with mesh storage bag. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. On-deck receptacle with cap for sail mast, dive flag, or nav-anchor light. New Plug-In Trax Cart. Two molded-in mid-boat carrying grips. Rear cargo area.
MSRP: $1949
Optional Gear: Sail kit, speedometer, dodger, bimini, and side kick.
Hobie Revolution Fish – NEW FOR 2007
Length: 13’ 5” Width: 28.5” Hull Weight: 59 lbs Mirage Drive Weight: 6.6 lbs Capacity: 350 lbs.
Additional Standard Features: Oversized forward hatch. Two eight-inch Twist and Seal hatches. Three New Gear Buckets with mesh storage bag. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. On-deck receptacle with cap for sail mast, dive flag, or nav-anchor light. New Plug-In Trax Cart. Two molded-in mid-boat carrying grips. Low-profile working tray.
MSRP: $1749
Optional Gear: Sail kit, speedometer, dodger, bimini, and side kick.
Hobie Quest Fish
Length: 13’ Width: 28.5” Hull Weight: 57 lbs. Capacity: 350 lbs.
Deluxe Package Features: “Easy Open” hinged hatch with access to large storage area. One eight-inch Twist and Seal hatch conveniently located in front of the seat. Aft room for second eight-inch optional hatch for additional storage. Adjustable foot braces for paddling leverage. Three New Gear Buckets with mesh storage bag. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. Two molded-in mid-boat carrying grips. New Plug-In Trax Cart.
MSRP: $1,049/Deluxe package
Optional Gear: “Twist and Stow” Rudder Kit
Hobie Mirage Outfitter Fish – (Tandem)
Length: 12’ 8” Width: 34” Hull Weight: 72 lbs Mirage Drive Weight: 6.6 lbs Capacity: 450 lbs.
Additional Standard Features: Three eight-inch Twist and Seal hatches. Twist and Stow rudder that can lie flat on the deck. Forward and rear cargo areas. Three New Gear Buckets with mesh storage bag. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. On-deck receptacle with cap for sail mat, dive flag, or nav-anchor light. New Plug-In Trax Cart. Mid-ship carrying handles on both sides.
MSRP: $2349
Optional Gear: Sail kit, speedometer, bimini, and side kick.
Hobie Mirage Outback Fish
Length: 12’ 1” Width: 33” Hull Weight: 62 lbs. Mirage Drive Weight: 6.6 lbs. Capacity: 400 lbs.
Additional Standard Gear: Oversize hinged hatch in bow with access to large storage area.Two Twist and Seal eight-inch hatches. Molded in utility trays. Oversize rear cargo area to accommodate a cooler, milk crate, or bucket. Three New Gear Buckets with mesh storage bag. On-deck receptacle for sail mast, dive flag, or nav-anchor light. Mesh-covered stowage pockets. Mid-boat carrying handle. New Plug-In Trax Cart.
MSRP: $1749
Optional Gear: Sail kit, speedometer, dodger, bimini, and side kick.
Hobie Mirage Sport Fish
Length: 9’ 7” Width: 29.5” Hull Weight: 48 lbs. Mirage Drive Weight: 6.6 lbs. Capacity: 245 lbs.
Additional Standard Features: Deck layout featuring storage trays. Six-inch Twist and Seal hatch with a storage bag. Eight-inch Twist and Seal hatch. Three New Gear Buckets with mesh storage bag. Oversize rear cargo area to accommodate a cooler, milk crate, or bucket. Mid-hull padded carrying handle. Built-in mast receptacle for optional sail package that goes easily to windward for all levels of sailors. New Plug-In Trax Cart.
MSRP: $1549
Optional Gear: Sail kit, speedometer, dodger, bimini, and side kick.
Accessories:
Plug-In Hobie Trax Cart MSRP: $129.95
Gear Bucket MSRP: $ 14.95
St Turbo Fins MSRP: $ 79.95
Sidekick Ama Kit MSRP: $145.95
Camo Dodger MSRP: $120.95
Bimini and Mount MSRP: $207.99
Sail Package MSRP: $290.00
Check Parts and Accessory online catalog for optional gear.
Since 1950, Hobie has been in the business of shaping a unique lifestyle based around fun, water, and quality products. From their headquarters in Oceanside, California, Hobie Cat Company manufactures, distributes, and markets an impressive collection of watercraft worldwide. These include an ever-expanding line of recreational and racing sailboats, pedal-driven and paddle sit-on-top kayaks, fishing boats, and authorized parts and accessories.
For more information contact www.hobiefishing.com
Necky Kayaks have introduced the new women's-specific Eliza Kayak in a fiberglass lay-up. One of the lightest women's kayaks on the market today, the 40-pound composite Eliza's egonomically designed cockpit is wide at the hips to account for a women's center of gravity and shorter in length allowing for easier spray deck installation/removal. The shallow V-shaped hull is very reactive to slight edging, yet provides an excellent balance between tracking and maneuverability.
The manufacturer's suggested retail price is $2,549.
For more information, check web site www.necky.cm.
is geared toward the serious kayak fisherman. The 12' 9", 69 lb. kayak easily accommodates anglers of any size with all the necessary fishing gear, including fish finders, GP, transducer, rod holders, tackle boxes and even live bait wells, all of which can be smartly mounted or stowed on and arund the boat.
Manufacturer's suggested retail price is $999 (standard); $1369 with rudder, large center square hatch and bow Pro hatch.
For more information, check web site www.oceankayak.com.
The Old Town Cayuga 130 was created with the single-minded focus of keeping the users mind free from thoughts about stability so they can fully concentrate on enjoying their time on the water. primarily designed for day use, the Cayuga 130 has all the comfort-centric design features that have made the Cayuga a paddlesports favorite, including exellent primary and secondary stability, easily accessible hatches, comfortable Extrasport XtraComfort seats, adjustable foot pegs and padded thigh braces.
Manufacturer's suggested list price is $899.
For more information, check web site www.oldtowncanoe.com.
The Prodigy series made by Perception are solid performers for paddlers looking for a stable recreational kayak. With generous cockpits and the new signature Perception hull design, paddlers can glide ad maneuver these boats easily and in comfort. The Prodigy line is available in 10 and 12 foot models and in a number of outfitting options including the addition of a rudder on the Prodigy 12.
The manufacturer's suggested retail price is $350 to $925 depending on length.
For more information, check web site www.kayaker.com
Trak Kayaks has introduced the world's first Adaptable Kayak. TRAK changes shape! No longer is there a compromising choice between a kayak built for speed, or one built for easy turning. TRAK does both. Shift the shape from performance speed in turning on a dime, instantly. It easily neutralizes changing conditions without a rudder, and it comes with a golf size travel pack and goes together in 10 minutes or less. Whether you're an expert or beginner, you'll be impressed with its performance.
The manufacturer's suggested list price is $5,575.
For more information, check web site www.RethinkKayak.com.
Wave Sport's new Habitat kayak takes whitewater creek boat design to the next level with a hull design that provides soft landings while maintaining excellent boat handling in extreme whitewater conditions. The Habitat has a number of safety and outfitting features, including a backpack-ready conversion system for portaging, a roto-molded bow pillar for improved structural stability, a low-profile seat for easy access to gear, ad five grab handles for additional carrying and attachment options.
It is available in 74 and 80 gallon models at the manufacturer's suggested retail price of $1000.
For more information, check web site www.wavesport.com
The new Kestrel 120 has a recreational type cockpit and the hull design is Swede form, shell "V". Available in red, yellow, and lime green for the manufacturer's suggested retail price of $1,374.
For more information check web site www.wenonah.com
Fishermen have loved to stand and cast from the Ride for years. The new Ride 135 features a redesigned pontoon-style hull for better performance and a new deck layout for easier access to gear, including molded-in rod guides that hold rods out of the way of paddle strokes. The Ride features a large bow hatch and a rear tankwell for diving tanks, milk crates, or buckets and is offered with an optional rudder and available in an angler package.
The manufacturer's suggested retail price is $800-$1185 depending on outfitting.
For more information, check web site www.wildernesssystems.com.
VIKING RAFT SAVES FISHING FAMILY FROM FRIGID ALASKAN WATERS
There's nothing scarier than the thought of a loved one being swept overboard on a sinking vessel. For the Pruitt family from Kodiak, Alaska, this nightmare became reality. If it wasn't for their Viking Liferaft and a father's fast thinking, the Pruitt family wouldn't be alive today. After abandoning their sinking fishing boat and surviving 62 hours in the open ocean, the exhausted and cold family of four was rescued by the crew of Sea Storm, a federal research vessel.
A family commercial fishing operation, Dale Pruitt, 47; his 18-year-old son Mitchell; 15-year-old daughter Calista and 18-year-old niece Callie, embarked on what they thought would be a two-day fishing trip aboard Magnum, a 56' leased seiner. After successfully catching nearly 10,000 lbs. of salmon, the crew turned to head home. Dale called his wife, Mindy, to say they were heading back when suddenly, the weather turned bad, the wind picked up to 50-60 mph and the swells grew to 12-15'.
According to Dale Pruitt, as they tried to reach land, something went very wrong with the boat. It rocked violently from port to starboard. With barely time to issue a mayday call and get the kids into survival suits, Magnum started to rapidly take on water. All of a sudden, Callie was swept overboard. Dale and Mitchell tried in vain to release the metal skiff attached to the deck as Magnum capsized.
In about 47° water, the family swam out to Callie, who had drifted over 100 yards away. She was clinging to the 6-person Viking Liferaft.
Dale made his way barefoot and in just a T-shirt and shorts, having lost his survival suit in all the confusion, toward Callie and the raft. Luckily, he was able to inflate it and get all the kids inside.
The Viking Liferaft battled the storm as Dale battled hypothermia. "We made a hat out of the foam packing we found in the raft's equipment bag in an attempt to contain body heat," said Dale. Calista wrapped her body around her father's chest to warm him. Always hopeful, the crew passed time telling family stories and talking about what they'd do when they got home.
"I was impressed with the riding capabilities and stability of the raft," said Dale. Providing them protection from the elements, "the raft was able to withstand sea conditions that the skiff wouldn't," said Dale.
The Coast Guard never received the distress call from Magnum. Pruitt's family notified the Coast Guard when the crew was 24 hours overdue. The Coast Guard immediately initiated a search pattern and broadcast a message to others to help look for Magnum and its crew. Finally, after 62 hours afloat in their Viking Liferaft, rescue came from Sea Storm, a 105' fishing vessel under contract with NOAA.
"The hardest part was waiting," said Mindy. "My community and the Coast Guard were amazing though. They started looking for my family right away. It was quite an ordeal, but I'm just so thankful for the liferaft and that they were all alright."
Viking built its reputation manufacturing life-saving equipment to the highest possible safety standards. For over 45 years, Viking Life-Saving Equipment continues to provide high-quality, reliable marine safety products for the offshore, cargo, fire, defense and yachting markets.
For more information contact Viking Life-Saving Equipment, 1400 NW 159th St., #101, Miami, FL 33169. 305-614-5800; Fax: 305-614-5810. usasales@viking-life.com; www.viking-life.com.
You can feel secure and stable in your kayak while fishing with the Scotty Stabilizers attached to your kayak. Made with easy to inflate inner bladders, which offer over 30 lb of extra buoyancy. The new Locking Posts make installation and removal quick and easy, too. These stabilizers can easily be adapted to fit on most canoes. Each pontoon includes 4 permanently attached D rings, and a Scotty adjustable mounting system for easy installation and removal.
For more information, check web site www.scotty.com
Island Packet Yachts is one of only two sailboat builders to be recognized with the 2007 CSI Industry Award for outstanding customer service. The National Marine Manufacturer’s Association (NMMA) created the initiative in 2002 and Island Packet has been a recipient of this coveted award four times in this short time period.
The NMMA and member companies developed the Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Program to support the industry's goal of raising the bar on customer satisfaction. The objective of this program is to help manufacturers and dealers improve quality and understand how they are doing relative to their competitors. The feedback generated from these surveys has been very successful in helping marine industry members improve the entire purchasing experience for new boat buyers.
Founded in 1979 by Bob Johnson, N.A., Island Packet Yachts is the builder of cruising yachts from 37 to 52 feet, including the new SP Cruiser motorsailor and PY Cruiser trawler. Located on 10 acres in Largo, Florida, the 125,000 square foot production facility employs 200 skilled craftspeople and has created over 2,200 cruising yachts in its 28 years. The company has won numerous awards and become renowned worldwide for their yacht’s exceptional level of quality, safety, comfort, offshore race-winning performance and long term value.
Luxury performance boat manufacturer Fearless Yachts has established an exclusive collaboration with internationally renowned Porsche Design Studio / Austria, to build an unparalleled new collection of high speed, custom luxury boats and yachts sized from 28 to 150 feet in length. The sleek and stylish brand was launched in February 2007 at the Miami Boat Show in the Miami Beach Convention Center.
Fearless Yachts brings a sophisticated difference to the marketplace by launching the ultra high-end boats and yachts that blend the best of performance, style, and design. Together, Fearless Yachts and Porsche Design Studio combine the style and performance of both the marine and automotive disciplines in order to establish a luxury brand for the boating industry.
For the boating enthusiast, Fearless Yachts delivers performance that is unmatched from concept to construction. “We are combining this discipline with our passion for excellence in order to offer access to an unprecedented design and lifestyle for today’s modern explorer,” said Jeffrey Binder, CEO Fearless Yachts.
The brand will debut its very first 28-foot boat at the Miami Boat Show in February 2007. This boat features a seamless hull with European curves like a high performance luxury vehicle. Fearless Yachts will also launch a collection of boats and yachts over the next three years at the Miami and Monaco boat shows:
44 foot – 2008
68 foot – 2008
125 foot – 2009
150 foot – 2010
“The luxury of owning a Fearless Yacht could only be compared to the lifestyle of international jet setter, James Bond,” explained Binder.
This customized elegance combines state of the art materials and construction methods for a level of performance that has not yet been achieved in the boating industry and will truly impact the person in the driver’s seat.
Fearless Yachts
Founded in 2003 by Gary Fears and CEO Jeffrey I. Binder, Fearless Yachts is the forerunner in sleek design and custom luxury in the performance boat and go fast yacht industries. Boat design by Porsche Design Studio. For more information please visit www.fearlessyachts.com.
Porsche Design Studio
The Porsche Design Studio, a subsidiary of Porsche Design Group, was founded in 1972 by Professor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche. Since its inception, the company has created products that have won numerous awards at internationally renowned competitions for outstanding design quality. Today, the Porsche Design Studio is considered one of the most traditional and established studios in Europe. In addition to its work on behalf of the Porsche Design Group, the studio has been involved in the development of industrial and product design for other companies.
For more information about the company, check web sote www.porsche-design.com.
Island Packet Yachts, well known for their award winning line of bluewater cruising sailboats, has announced their new Island Packet 465 scheduled to debut at this fall’s major boat shows in the US and UK.
The two cabin, raised saloon design by Bob Johnson incorporates all the signature elements that have won the company their reputation as America’s Cruising Yacht Leader. An evolution of the company’s successful center cockpit 445, the boat introduces several important new features:
A traditional transom stern creates an enlarged aft cabin,
an extended aft deck large enough to store up to a 10’ dinghy
and a more spacious and versatile lazarette.
Aesthetic appeal is also enhanced by the extended sheer line and classic stern.
Naval architect and company founder Bob Johnson says of his 26th new Island Packet model in 28 years, “The refinements we’ve made to an already successful design for Island Packet should make the boat an even more desirable choice for today’s knowledgeable cruising sailor.”
Founded by Bob Johnson, N.A. in 1979, Island Packet Yachts is the builder of cruising yachts from 37 to 52 feet, including the new SP Cruiser motorsailor and PY Cruiser trawler. Located on 10 acres in Largo, Florida, the 125,000 square foot production facility employs 200 skilled craftspeople and has created over 2,200 cruising yachts in its 28 years. The company has won numerous awards and become renowned worldwide for their yacht’s exceptional level of quality, safety, comfort, offshore race-winning performance and long term value.
When rinsed directly into waterways, traditional soaps and shampoos can create pollution and harm wildlife. Unlike conventional cleansers, Aqua Lather from Davis Instruments is biodegradable and will not contaminate water, posing no threat to aquatic life.
This effective body gel and shampoo can be used in all types of water including salt, hard, brackish and chlorinated water, as it will not become diluted. Aqua Lather's unique formula also soothes bug bites, sunburn and rough skin while cleaning and refreshing. This exclusive cleanser counteracts salt, sun and wind damage and removes dirt and grease. Aqua Lather is pH-balanced and won't harm hair or skin, no matter how often it is used. It gently rinses hair tangle-free and skin smooth, without any annoying curds or residue. Soft and mild, this formula works into a rich lather with a light and natural fragrance.
This convenient cleanser's dispensing spout easily flicks open and closed, avoiding lost caps or messy spills. Aqua Lather's compact bottle contains just the right amount for travel and easily stows away. Its economical formula is concentrated enough for numerous baths and shampoos and also works wonderfully on clothes and dishes.
Aqua Lather from Davis Instruments retails for $6.99 for 5 fl. oz.
For more information contact Davis Instruments, 3465 Diablo Ave., Hayward, CA 94545. 510-732-9229; Fax: 510-732-9188. info@davisnet.com; www.davisnet.com.
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Spars, centerboards and rudders are just a few of the places where WEST SYSTEM® Episize Unidirectional Carbon Tapes and Glass Tapes can be used to add strength and stiffness. By aligning these ribbon-like tows with anticipated load paths and bonding them in place with WEST SYSTEM epoxy, it improves tension and compression performance in harsh marine environments.
Carbon fiber tape provides stiff reinforcement while boosting tensile and compressive strength. It weighs 11.1 oz, has a thickness of .015" and contains 144,000 fibers per inch of tape width. A polyester fill thread holds fiber bundles in place for easy handling and wet out.
Glass fiber tape is best used for epoxy projects where a little less rigidity is needed. Consisting of E-glass fiber, this tape isn't as stiff as carbon tape, but is just as easy to handle and wet out. Average tape thickness is .0125".
Episize Unidirectional Carbon Tape is available in 1.5" or 3" widths and in 12' or 50' lengths. Twelve feet of 1.5" width tape is $49.40 and 50' costs $128.10. For a 12' length of 3" width tape, the price is $60.90, while 50' costs $169.05. Episize Unidirectional Glass Tape comes in 3" widths with a choice of 12' or 50' lengths. Twelve feet of glass tape costs $32.35 and 50' is $75.75.
For more information contact West System, PO Box 665, Bay City, MI 48707. 866-937-8797; Fax: 989-684-1374. www.westsystem.com.
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In harsh, wet, marine conditions, rust and corrosion are expected. Applying environmentally-friendly Prolan lanolin lubricant from Thermo Boat protects anchors, chains, boat trailers and other at risk metals.
Ideal for sealing electrical connections, unique Prolan shields against fresh and salt water, as it can't penetrate the natural lanolin barrier. It hermetically seals the metal surface to which it is applied, stopping corrosion from setting in.
Prolan prevents electrolysis caused by dissimilar metals and inhibits oxidation and galvanic corrosion. Non-evaporative and non-leaching, it is safe to use on rubber and other synthetic materials.
Lanolin is perfect for protecting and lubricating electrical and engine room components, outboards, stern drives, cables and winches. It can also be used with marina and shipyard machinery and equipment. Inexpensive and easy to apply, Prolan from Thermo Boat comes in convenient 8 and 16 oz. spray bottles or quart and gallon containers. It is available in Light, Medium and Heavy Grade Lanolin Liquid and Blended Grease. Suggested retail prices start at $10.49 USD.
Contact Thermo Boat, 2064 #7 Henry Ave. West, Sidney, BC V8L 5Y1 CANADA. 250-472-8495; Fax 250-483-5464. info@thermoboat.com; www.thermoboat.com.
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Cleaning out holding tanks is never an easy or pleasant-smelling job for boat and RV owners. Without the use of harsh chemicals or perfumes, all-natural Microtabs from Clean Water Solutions Inc. (CWSI) eliminate odors and decompose solids to make pumpouts simple.
Ideal for holding tank treatment, innovative Microtabs employ oil-eating microbes to consume and break down odor-causing materials to keep the head smelling fresh. The naturally-occurring microbes are nontoxic, non-pathogenic and are Environmental Protection Agency approved. Instead of just masking odors, the unique microbes digest gases and waste to completely eradicate odors.
Convenient, water-soluble, pre-measured, biodegradable packets make treatment easy. Boat and RV owners only have to add the necessary number of tabs to the tank each time they pump out for effortless maintenance. A three-pack of economical MicroTabs from CWSI retails for $16.95. One 8g packet works in tanks up to 40 gallons in size.
Clean Water Solutions provides environmentally-sound solutions for hydrocarbon pollution and holding tank odors.
Contact Clean Water Solutions, 40 Parker Ave., Newport, RI 02840. For technical questions call 888-902-4141 or contact info@cwsius.com; www.cwsius.com.
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Everyone wants a clean boat floating in pristine water, but few want to hunker down and scrub with toxic products and less-than-perfect results. The environmentally-friendly Oil Clean Up Kit from Clean Water Solutions Inc. simplifies the job.
A small amount of Clean Water Microbial Powder and Blue Surfactant mixed with water lifts oil residue and pollutants from any surface and kills odors. The Kit's Razor sponge easily wipes away oil and grime. Fast, efficient, and low-cost, the Kit is perfect for cleaning and deodorizing heads, bilges, catch basins, septic tanks, porous surfaces and laundry.
Naturally-occurring Archaea microbes in the Oil Clean Up Kit "eat" hydrocarbons from diesel fuel and gasoline, grease, lubricants, vegetable oils and sewage. Perhaps best of all, these dangerous hydrocarbons are converted into beneficial, non-hazardous fatty acids that provide food for fish and plant life.
Containing 6 oz. of Microbial Powder, 8 oz. of Blue Surfactant and a Razor sponge, suggested retail price for the Clean Water Solutions Oil Clean Up Kit is $25.95.
For more information contact Clean Water Solutions, 40 Parker Ave., Newport, RI 02840. For technical questions call 888-902-4141 or contact info@cwsius.com; www.cwsius.com.
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The last thing a boat owner or boatbuilder wants when applying epoxy is runoff from vertical and overhead joints. To prevent this, WEST SYSTEM® Brand 406 Colloidal Silica Filler, a thickening agent, is used to control viscosity.
A very strong adhesive filler, the 406 Colloidal Silica Filler creates a smooth mixture, excellent for bonding with fillets to provide a sturdy brace between parts. The WEST SYSTEM filler also works great for bonding hardware to increase fastener interface and load capability.
It is useful for general bonding and laminating layers of wood strips, veneers, planks, sheets and cores. Often used in combination with other fillers, WEST SYSTEM 406 improves the strength, abrasion-resistance and consistency of fairing compounds.
The off-white, 406 Colloidal Silica comes in 1.7 oz. retailing for $7.95 and 5.5 oz. containers for $20.45.
For more information ontact West System, PO Box 665, Bay City, MI 48707. 866-937-8797; Fax: 989-684-1374. www.westsystem.com.
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When working on complex epoxy projects or in warm conditions, it's critical that the bonding agent harden and cure slowly. Brand 206 Slow Hardener mixed with 105 Resin gives boatbuilders and restorers plenty of time to work.
At 72º F, the 206 Slow Hardener has a pot life of 20-25 minutes. The pale yellow, low-viscosity epoxy cures to a solid state within 9-12 hours and reaches maximum strength in 1-4 days. The minimum recommended temperature is 60ºF.
In a 5-part resin to 1-part hardener ratio, the mixture yields a rigid, moisture-resistant solid. With high-strength bonding properties, the WEST SYSTEM epoxy mixture can be used to install metal hardware and fasteners, especially on curved or uneven surfaces.
WEST SYSTEM epoxy resin and hardeners are packaged in three convenient groups: A, B and C. To avoid waste, users should purchase the resin and hardener from the same group.
In Group B, a .86-quart container of 206 Slow Hardener retails for $35.95, and a .98-gallon container of 105 Epoxy Resin is $91.95.
WEST SYSTEM products provide a complete system of epoxy resin and hardeners, dispensers, fillers, additives, reinforcing materials, application tools and instructional publications.
For more information contact West System, PO Box 665, Bay City, MI 48707. 866-937-8797; Fax: 989-684-1374. www.westsystem.com.
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When applying epoxy to a gelcoat surface, boaters expect a clean finish that's both slick and tough. Mixing WEST SYSTEM® Brand 423 Graphite Powder to WEST SYSTEM epoxy produces a low-friction exterior coating with superior scuff resistance and durability.
The graphite/epoxy mix is commonly used as a low-load, low-speed bearing surface and as a coating on rudders and centerboards. It can also be used on the hulls of racing craft that are dry-sailed.
Curing to a black color, the mixture protects the epoxy from UV damage. It also can be used in teak deck construction to simulate the look of traditional seams. The powder should be added to mixed resin/hardener at the rate of 10% by volume.
A 6 oz. container of 423 Graphite Powder retails for $8.55. The 12 oz. costs $13.60.
For more information contact West System, PO Box 665, Bay City, MI 48707. 866-937-8797; Fax: 989-684-1374. www.westsystem.com.
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A boat is not truly clean until it has been detailed. Yacht Brite Serious Shine marine detailer from Shurhold Industries, used with Shurhold's Microfiber Towels, cleans, polishes and protects virtually any solid boat surface quickly and easily.
Serious Shine is a handy, one-step waterless detailer. It's safe and effective on fiberglass, paint, metal, vinyl, clear plastic, glass, Plexiglas and rubber. Leaving behind no greasy residue, Serious Shine contains UV inhibitors and anti-static properties to further protect all surfaces of the boat, inside and out.
For the best results, Shurhold recommends its Microfiber Towel set that includes an extra-strong towel to wash and wipe up, a super-soft towel to polish and a lint-free towel for glass and mirrors. The towels measure a generous 17" x 17" and absorb 50% more than natural chamois.
Yacht Brite Serious Shine in a 14 oz. aerosol can retails for $16.99, and the Microfiber Towel set costs $18.95.
For more information contact Shurhold, 3119 SW 42nd Ave., Palm City, FL 34990. 800-962-6241; Fax: 772-286-9620. info@shurhold.com; www.shurhold.com.
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Gathering all the cleaners and tools necessary to detail a boat can be a nuisance. To make the job easier, Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner from Shurhold Industries removes stains and marks from a multitude of surfaces.
Using Shurhold's line of handheld scrub brushes, Serious Marine Cleaner safely removes waterline marks and black scuffmarks on fiberglass and gel coat. It also cleans smudge marks on stainless steel and metal railings. The concentrate removes bird stains from teak decking and canvas canopies, as well as spills on carpeting and vinyl seating without damaging the surfaces. At the same time, Serious Marine Cleaner is strong enough to tackle engine and bilge degreasing.
Shurhold offers five different handheld scrub brushes to suit any purpose. The 276 Dip & Scrub has an extra-long 20" handle and stiff, chemical-resistant bristles for hard-to-reach areas like baitwells or below the waterline. Using the same tough bristles, the 274 Dip & Scrub has a compact handle.
A safety bumper on the 272 Scrub Brush protects against dings or dents. It features a lightweight, knuckle-saving handle. The 270 Utility Brush has a unique spot scrubber on the handle that's perfect for upholstery, floor mats, vinyl and canvas.
Small but hardworking, the 278 Detailing Brush has a medium stiffness for quick removal of grease and grime. It's great for teak.
Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner comes in a 32 oz. spray bottle and retails for $9.95. Shurhold's handheld scrub brushes range in price from $7.95 to $19.95.
For more information contact Shurhold, 3119 SW 42nd Ave., Palm City, FL 34990. 800-962-6241; Fax: 772-286-9620. info@shurhold.com; www.shurhold.com.
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Because the Port of San Diego is considering restrictions on the amount of copper in anti-fouling paints, Pettit Marine Paint is introducing Vivid Free. With all the same vibrant colors and attributes as Vivid, new Vivid Free is not only copper-free, but completely metal-free.
Without the use of copper or any other metals, boats are protected against slime, algae, barnacles and other marine fouling. Vivid Free is EPA-approved. Using the latest biocide technology, it can be safely used on fiberglass, aluminum or wood hulls.
Employing unique controlled erosion, Vivid Free reduces coating buildup and ensures underwater surfaces stay clean and smooth. Boats using this non-oxidizing formulation can be hauled and relaunched without recoating. Easy to use, Vivid Free eliminates the need to prime underwater metal before application.
Offered exclusively to Southern California, Vivid Free is available in white, blue, red and black. Its suggested retail prices are $199 per gallon.
Pettit provides a full line of nationwide marine coatings for protection, repair and maintenance above and below the waterline. Their products include bottom paint, primers, undercoaters, topside enamels, sealers, varnishes and stain fillers.
For more information contact Pettit Marine Paint, 36 Pine St., Rockaway, NJ 07866. 800-221-4466. www.pettitpaint.com.
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To ensure a firm, long-lasting bond, WEST SYSTEM Brand Aluminum Cleaner, an acid conditioner, is applied to remove corrosion. Then, the WEST SYSTEM Brand Conversion Coating stabilizes the aluminum surface to prevent further oxidation. This allows time for coating or bonding. The Etch Kit's two-part process also improves paint adhesion.
The 860 Aluminum Etch Kit is available in two, 1/4-pint bottles that treat about 50 sq. ft. and retails for $14.95, or two, 1-pint bottles that cover about 200 sq. ft. and cost $31.25.
For more information contact West System, PO Box 665, Bay City, MI 48707. 866-937-8797; Fax: 989-684-1374. www.westsystem.com.
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It is important to follow these procedures every time you come into contact with any body of water. Even if you think the waterway is pristine, there may be an invasive species that has not yet been discovered. There are hundreds of different harmful species ranging from plants, fish, amphibians, crustaceans, mollusks, diseases or pathogens. Some organisms are so small, you may not even realize they are hitching a ride with you.
• Remove any visible plant matter, animals, mud, and dirt from your boat, trailer, boots, waders, decoys, and all equipment that was exposed to the water. Even plant fragments and dirt may contain tiny hitchhikers.
• Empty water from motors, jet drives, live wells, boat hulls, canoes and kayaks, scuba tanks and regulators, boots, waders, bait buckets, etc. Please do this before you leave. If you wait until you get home to empty water, it is likely to run down the gutter into a storm drain, which could contaminate local waters.
• Clean your equipment, including your boat’s engine cooling system, live wells, and bilge with hot tap water (at least 104° F). If hot water is not available, spray equipment such as boats, motors, trailers, anchors, decoys, floats, and nets with high-pressure water.
• Make sure that your boat and other equipment is allowed to dry for at least 48 hours before using it in other waters.
• For equipment that cannot be exposed to hot water, either dip it in vinegar for 20 minutes or in a 1-percent saltwater solution for 24 hours.
• If your dog gets into the water, wash it with warm tap water as soon as possible, brushing its coat thoroughly.
• Do not release unused bait into the waters you are fishing. Dump any unused bait into a trashcan or on land far away from any water body. Be aware of any bait regulations, and do not use live bait in waters where it is prohibited.
• If you need to get rid of your aquarium fish or aquatic pets, do not release them into or near a body of water or a storm drain. If you cannot find another home for them, bury them. Dump the aquarium water in the toilet or in your yard, far away from any storm drains.
You can find out more about aquatic invasives and how to prevent their spread by visiting the Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers eeb site at www.protectyourwaters.net.
Even if you don’t own a boat, you can help protect the waters of your state by contacting your state and federal legislators and asking them to support Great Lakes restoration. New legislation is needed to put in place a long-term restoration strategy for the lakes and to prevent the further spread of invasive species.
Visit the Healing Our Waters Coalition at www.restorethelakes.org to find out how you can help ensure that your waterways are protected from the threat of aquatic invasives.
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Cleaning your boat and other recreational equipment between waterway visits will prevent aquatic invasive species from hitching a ride with you and will protect our lakes and streams from harmful invasions. There is much more that you can do to help protect our waterways.
Your everyday actions, both on the land and in the water, affect water quality and wildlife habitat. For example, rain that washes over your yard may pick up excess fertilizers and pesticides and carry them into your local water body. When rain washes over driveways, roofs, and streets, it can pick up oil, rubber and other residues. On hot days, these paved surfaces heat up rain runoff that can then enter a waterway and cause elevated water temperatures. Making small changes in our everyday activities, like cleaning up pet waste and using less fertilizer, can go a long way toward protecting our waters.
You can find out more about how clean and healthy your streams and lakes are by monitoring water quality. Monitoring data can be used to identify pollution problems, determine whether pollution regulations are being followed, and gauge whether enhancement efforts are successful.
As you examine your watershed and assess the water quality of its lakes and streams, you might find eroding banks, areas devoid of vegetation, deep and narrow stream channels, wide and shallow channels, or silty lake bottoms. These are some of the characteristics of streams and lakes adjusting to changes in the watershed. It is possible to remedy this degradation, and volunteers can help streams and lakes readjust to the changing landscape.
National and local regulations provide an excellent avenue for conserving the country’s watersheds. For example, under the Clean Water Act, factories and other industries that discharge waste into waterways are required to obtain a permit and comply with certain standards. Violators face steep fines or even imprisonment. You can pass new watershed conservation laws, or protect existing laws, by letting your elected officials know the importance of clean, healthy waters. For more information on national watershed policy, advocacy tips, and action alerts on current conservation policy, please visit the Izaak Walton League’s Action Center. This site also provides an easy way to send messages to members of Congress and to keep track of their votes on important conservation issues.
The Izaak Walton League joins Healthy Lakes, Healthy Lives in support of the Great Lakes Regional Collaboration, a comprehensive regional plan that dedicates funding to protect our drinking water, economic future, and way of life.
For more information visit www.healthylakes.org.
One of the best ways to get others involved in watershed stewardship is to teach a friend, neighbor, or school group about watershed conservation. Talk to local civic groups and explain the need for their involvement. You can also target a specific audience for your message. For example, work with local landowners to develop land-use strategies for water quality, such as planting buffer strips of vegetation along stream banks. Or, host a watershed festival to raise public awareness. To reach a broad audience, keep the media updated about your project. You can also write letters and op-eds to local newspapers yourself. Suggest a story about your stream or wetland project, and ask the media to cover local events. Explain how the project benefits the local community and that clean water means a safer, healthier, and more aesthetically pleasing environment for everyone.
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Tips From The West System Technical Staff
The old saying, "Cleanliness is next to Godliness" is certainly true when preparing a surface for an epoxy application. If a surface isn't clean, there may be adhesion problems. But, often, our good intentions with cleaning actually result in contaminants being deposited on the surface. We will cover potential contaminants, ways to avoid them and a method to determine if a surface is clean.
OIL, GREASE, WAX
Unless there's good evidence an organic contaminant is present, there's no reason to wipe the surface with an organic solvent. Acetone, lacquer thinner and proprietary mixtures are solvents that remove organic contaminants such as oil, grease and wax. But, cleaning with solvents may do more harm than good. Solvents are capable of dissolving contaminants found in rags and depositing them on the work surface. For example, silicone, a mold release, is an ingredient in many fabric softeners. A surface can be contaminated by silicone from using a supposedly clean rag straight from the laundry.
In addition, many solvents dissolve man-made fibers found in rags. A wipe down with acetone can deposit plastic on the very surface you are trying to clean.
If you need to use a solvent to remove oil, grease or wax, employ plain white or unbleached paper towels. Wipe the solvent on with fresh paper towels. Remove the solvent while it's still wet and change paper towels frequently to avoid re-depositing the contaminants on the surface.
SANDING DUST
Besides the dust, a freshly sanded surface is about as clean as it can get. Refrain from rubbing your hand over it to check for smoothness. Unless you are wearing a clean glove, the naturally occurring oil that helps protect your skin has just been spread all over the surface. Not only does this contaminate surfaces, but the salt on your skin also speeds corrosion of metal surfaces, which may cause adhesion problems.
Every last particle of sanding dust does not need to be removed to have good adhesion. Simply remove the bulk of it and consider the remaining dust epoxy filler. Excellent methods for getting rid of sanding dust include vacuuming, sweeping with a non-contaminated bench brush or washing it off with water.
The manufacturers of sticky tack rags maintain that wiping a surface with their products won't leave a residue. It's likely the rags actually do leave a residue, it just is dissolved by solvents in most paints and varnishes. Epoxy, in contrast, contains none of these aggressive solvents. The residue from tack rags can cause adhesion difficulties and fisheyes in subsequent coats. An effective alternative, dry static wipes leave no residue.
Although it's common practice to use compressed air to remove sanding dust, we wouldn't recommend it. Aside from the mess created by blowing dust, it's possible that blowing compressed air on the surface will contaminate it with compressor oil or water.
HOW CLEAN IS CLEAN?
An easy way to tell if the surface you've prepared is truly clean is to wash it with water. This unsophisticated water break test works on the principle that most contaminants repel water. Apply water using a clean pad. If it sheets off the surface evenly, that part is clean. If the water channels or beads on certain areas, the surface will need additional cleaning.
This test is simple to perform on both large and small areas. To be effective, the water must be free of debris, contaminants and surfactants. The water break test will not indicate soap residue or other water-soluble films, but it will help remove them. Some materials don't allow good epoxy adhesion, no matter how well you clean the surface. However, most adhesion problems can be traced back to some form of surface contamination. For the best possible results make sure the substrate is clean.
Based in Bay City, Michigan, West System provides a complete system of epoxy resin and hardeners, dispensers, fillers, additives, reinforcing materials, application tools and instructional publications.
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Shoppers who use the Internet to buy items online look for web sites that are easy to navigate. Iosso Products recently launched its re-designed web site with navigation buttons that take visitors to product descriptions with full-color photographs, easy online ordering and payment options. The new web site can be found at www.iosso.com.
The homepage has two separate navigations bars. Running vertically in the upper right corner is a list of pages. Clicking on "Store" takes shoppers directly to online ordering options; selecting "News" will link visitors to recent press releases about Iosso products and company news; the "Dealers" option invites users to call Iosso for retail outlets and distributors for Iosso products; and "Contact" provides an email feedback form, email address and company phone numbers.
Running horizontally underneath the Iosso logo are product categories. Clicking on the "Marine/RV/Awning" button pulls up a list of products for boats, RVs and awnings with product descriptions, photographs and pricing. Users who need other merchandise will also find complete information for applicable products.
Contact Iosso Products, 1485 Lively Blvd. Elk Grove, IL 60007. Phone: 847-437-8400
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Pontoon boats provide great platforms for enjoying time out on the water. But after sitting in water for a while, algae forms and the chemicals used to remove it can leave an aluminum hull stained and dull from oxidation. Pontoon Polish from Iosso Products removes stains and helps resist algae formation for months.
Algae growth is an unfortunate reality for boat owners. And cleaning it off the aluminum hull of a pontoon boat usually involves an acid solution and pressure washing that too often leaves a dull, stained finish. Iosso’s Pontoon Polish leaves a brilliant shine and protection that lasts for months. In fact, at the end of the season boaters may find some algae growth, but cleaning it will be much easier – only a pressure wash and polish is necessary. The polish also removes water spots, staining, tars and oils.
Pontoon Polish is an environmentally friendly product that can be applied by hand or by buffer. Because it’s concentrated and spreads easily, boat owners only need a small amount for each application.
A 16 ounce can of Pontoon Polish has a retail price of $23.10 and $86.82 for a 5-pound pail.
Contact Iosso Products, 1485 Lively Blvd. Elk Grove, IL 60007. Phone: 847-437-8400; Website: www.iosso.com.
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Even the best-protected engines, accessories, spare parts and other metal equipment are susceptible to rust and corrosion, whether in dry storage, a boatyard, repair shop, garage or driveway. Dr. Shrink now offers VCI Shrinkwrap, a volatile corrosion inhibitor (VCI) applied beneath shrinkwrap to further shield parts from the harmful effects of the elements.
Instead of using messy, hard-to-clean grease, wax or lubricants, Dr. Shrink's VCI Shrinkwrap works by releasing an invisible, odorless, non-toxic vapor into the air within the enclosure. The molecules settle on exposed metal surfaces to stop the electrochemical corrosion process. Within two to three hours, the interior will be saturated.
For large projects, VCI film is available in 6 mil, 20' x 100' rolls. A length of film plastic is simply taped to the surface of the object and then shrinkwrapped to provide an airtight environment. When the object is uncovered, the VCI molecular layer will vaporize, leaving a clean, dry, corrosion-free item that's ready to use.
For smaller electrical and mechanical metal components, Dr. Shrink offers VCI capsules that work the same way as the film. Foam inserts within the capsules contain the corrosion inhibiting vapor. They're easily applied in seconds by peeling away the adhesive backing and affixing to any surface prior to shrinkwrapping.
Dr. Shrink VCI Shrinkwrap retails for $148 per roll. A small VCI capsule, which protects up to 1 cu. ft., costs $3, while a large capsule for areas up to 6 cu. ft. is $7.
For more information contact Dr. Shrink, 315 Washington St., Manistee, MI 49660. 800-968-5147; Fax: 231-723-9586. drshrink@dr-shrink.com; or web site www.dr-shrink.com.
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When exposed to the elements, boat and RV surfaces can develop mold, mildew, algae and the stains that go with them. Now owners are able to restore and reclaim these surfaces with UltraMean-2 Super Power Powder, an oxygenated stain remover and cleaner from Rhino Hide.
A highly concentrated sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate, UltraMean-2 has superior cleaning strength for the most obstinate mold and mildew stains. This environmentally-responsible product is safe for nearly any water washable interior or exterior surface. It can be used on marine canvas, tarps, vinyl, rope, teakwood, siding, carpeting, and sails.
Mixed with water, UltraMean-2 utilizes foaming action to brighten surfaces. A non-chlorine bleaching agent, it won't harm aluminum, glass or delicate surfaces. With no perfumes or offensive odors, the stable powder formulation battles stains, cleans, sanitizes and deodorizes.
With the Super Power Powder, the force of the clean can be controlled by matching the solution's strength to the difficulty of the stain. Cost-effective, leftover product can be employed to freshen or clean drains, disposals, trashcans and toilets.
A 12.5 lb. pail of UltraMean-2 Super Power Powder from Rhino Hide
retails for $69.95 and makes up to 50 gal. At $16.95, the 2.7 lb. tub
produces up to 8 gal. The 0.5 lb. pouch costs $4.95 and yields up to 2
gal.
For more information, contact Rhino Hide, 863-665-0203; via e-mail at info@rhinohide.com; or check web site www.rhinohide.com.
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Higher temperatures can shorten epoxy curing time, leaving a boatbuilder or restorer unable to finish their projects. If a little extra working time is crucial, there's WEST SYSTEM® Brand 209 Extra Slow Hardener. When mixed with WEST SYSTEM 105 Resin, it creates a longer curing time in high temperatures and humidity.
With superior moisture resistance properties, the hardener assists in general bonding and barrier coating by allowing projects to properly cure in extremely humid conditions. Developed for curing above 70°F, the resin/ hardener mixture can be used in temperatures above 95°F.
Offering twice the working time of WEST SYSTEM 206 Slow Hardener, the extra slow curing agent provides a pot life of 40 to 50 minutes at 72°F and 15 to 20 minutes at 95°F.
At 72°F, the epoxy cures to a solid state in 24 hours and in 6 to 8 hours at 95°F. It reaches maximum strength in 4 to 9 days. When cured, the epoxy forms a clear, amber-colored solid.
For easy, no-waste mixing, WEST SYSTEM hardeners and resin are packaged in three conveniently sized groups: A, B and C. In group B, a 1.32-quart container of 209 Extra Slow Hardener costs $59.40 and a .98-gallon of container of 105 Resin is $86.90.
For more information contact West System, PO Box 665, Bay City, MI 48707. 866-937-8797; Fax: 989-684-1374, or check web site www.westsystem.com.
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Unlike many harmful marine lubricants, Prolan lanolin from Thermo Boat is non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and completely natural. Inexpensive and easy to apply, Prolan prevents corrosion, lubricates and preserves the environment. Perfect for harsh marine conditions, Prolan protects trailers, outboards, stern drives, winches, chains, cables, anchors, hulls, propellers and electrical and engine room components. It is safe to use on rubber and other synthetic materials.
Creating a moisture barrier, Prolan inhibits oxidation and galvanic corrosion on metal surfaces. It prevents electrolysis caused by dissimilar metals. Non-evaporative and non-leaching, lanolin offers long-lasting protection.
Applying lanolin to hulls decreases drag on water for increased speed and better fuel efficiency. Acid and alkali resistant, Prolan reduces marine growth on hulls and propellers, as it cannot penetrate the lanolin barrier.
Ideal for shipyard and marina machinery and equipment, Prolan from Thermo Boat is available in Light, Medium and Heavy Grade Lanolin Liquid and Blended Grease. Prices start at $34.95 for 34 oz. A 34 oz. tin will cover 270 sq. ft.
For more information, contact Thermo Boat, 2064 #7 Henry Ave. West, Sidney, BC V8L 5Y1 CANADA, 250-472-8495; Fax 250-483-5464, or check web site www.thermoboat.com.
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Perfect for hulls, decks, chrome and fittings, and is also biodegradable, economical - since a few capfuls cleans a 20 foot boat - and is non-streaking plus doesn’t leave a residue.
Available at marine stores or call Star brite at 1-800-327-8583 for a dealer near you.
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For boaters who want to show off their craft’s appearance, having the finish shine under the sun is a reflection of their great pride in the vessel. Ducky Detailer from Ducky Products creates a wet look finish and protects it, too. Not all finishes were created equal, and owners know how the sun can fade colors and make paint look dull. The Ducky Detailer conditions and protects surfaces from harmful UV rays at the same time. UV brighteners can bring out the depth of nearly any hull color and enhance it as well. The wet look finish is slick to the touch. Biodegradable and non-toxic, the Ducky Detailer won’t harm the environment. It also won’t damage other materials if accidentally spilled or the wind misdirects spray during use. Ducky Detailer from Ducky Products is available in a 28-ounce spray bottle for $11.75 at www.duckyproducts.com.
For information on where to purchase Ducky Detailer, contact Ducky Products, 530 South Lake Ave., #163, Pasadena, California 91101; 626-797-7226; or check web site www.duckyproducts.com.
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The drudgery of cleaning fiberglass on boats, RVs and at home can be eliminated thanks to Fiberglass Stain Remover (FSR) from Davis Instruments. This hard-working gel removes unsightly oil, rust, exhaust, waterline and transom stains, with little effort by the user. Versatile FSR removes road soil from trailered boats and RVs. At home, shower stalls, spas and patio furniture return to pristine with the easy-to-use gel. FSR also cleans rust stains from just about anything – from clothing and sail cloth to stainless steel stanchions and railings. The gel is also excellent for removing "rust bleeders" from the hull or deck.
Its nonabrasive quality is safe for use on white painted and gelcoated surfaces. No sanding or compounding is needed. FSR is easily applied with a brush, sponge or cloth. Because it's a gel, it stays only on the stained area. In a few minutes, it's simply wiped or rinsed off. Suggested retail price for a 16-fluid ounce container of Davis FSR is $10.99. A 67.8-fluid ounce bottle is $28.99.
For more information, contact Davis Instruments, 3465 Diablo Ave., Hayward, CA 94545, 510-732-9229, or check web site info@davisnet.com.
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Consistent cleaning is the first step in maintaining a beautiful boat, but few boaters look forward to it. Given the right information and tools, professional-grade surface care can be fast, easy and worthwhile. The bare minimum of a simple rinse after a day on the water and a weekly wash will keep a boat looking beautiful for years to come. Shurhold Industries provides the necessary cleaning tools to make the
process simple and fun.
Their "One Handle Does It All" quick release system promptly locks any
Shurhold handle with all Shurhold brushes and accessories. The Shur-Lok
design guarantees that attachments will never spin or pop off during use. Perfect for frequent use, the Shurhold 900 Series Deck Brushes feature bristles from extra soft to stiff and an angled head design. When secured to the Telescoping Handle, the Deck Brushes extend from 43" to 108" for hard to reach places. Flared blue nylon and yellow and white polystyrene bristles produce a thorough cleaning and fewer trips to the water bucket.
For a spotless shine, a concentrated, gentle boat wash soap will do the trick. Shurhold's Yacht Brite Brite Wash is ideal for regular use. The environmentally-friendly liquid cleaner will not strip wax or polish. One ounce will clean an entire 40' boat. Brite Wash resists water spots, including in hard water. On wash day, the entire boat should first be rinsed off. This removes loose dirt that can scratch the finish and dissolves any dried salt left on the craft. For the best possible clean, the boat should be scrubbed from top to bottom and then from bow to stern. A thorough rinse and wipe down to dry the boat produces sparkling results.
The suggested retail prices of Shurhold 900 Series Deck Brushes start at $24.95. Yacht Brite Brite Wash costs $9.95 for a 32 ounce bottle.
For more information, contact Shurhold, 3119 SW 42nd Ave., Palm City, FL 34990,
800-962-6241; e-mail info@shurhold.com; or check web site www.shurhold.com.
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Mold, mildew and moisture have now met their match. The Air-Dryr by
Davis Instruments conquers humidity, cold drafts and corrosion in damp,
enclosed spaces, whether on boats, RVs or at home. This inexpensive system uses a simpler strategy than dehumidifiers that drain into sinks. Once Air-Dryr is plugged into an outlet, damp air is heated and released through the vents. As the warmed air rises, cooler, damp air is drawn in. Natural convection continually circulates the
air. If airflow is impeded, it automatically turns off.
Air-Dryr's compact size is perfect for cabins, bilges, engine rooms and V-berths. It's also useful in RVs, trailers, cars and aircraft. At home, Air-Dryr works in basements, closets, storage units or even near a piano. The compact unit costs no more to operate than a light bulb and can be left on 24 hours a day. The UL-listed Air-Dryr has no switch, fan or thermostat to malfunction. It is silent, safe to touch and ideal for marine use, because there are no components to cause sparking.
The neutral beige housing is of strong and durable polycarbonate. The
Air-Dryr 500 dehumidifies 500 cu. ft., and draws 0.6 amps. The unit measures 14"L x 5"W x 4.5"H. Suggested retail price is $54.99. The Air-Dryr 1000 handles up to 1,000 cu. ft. and draws 1.1 amps. It measures 13.5" in diameter x 4.25"H and lists for $64.99.
For more information, contact Davis Instruments, 3465 Diablo Ave., Hayward, CA 94545; 510-732-9229; Email info@davisnet.com; or check web site www.davisnet.com.
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While most boaters would prefer to relax on the water, cleaning is a necessary evil. However, a high-quality cleaner can make the process quicker and easier. Ducky Products All Purpose Cleaner can be used to make any vessel shine from bow to stern. The All Purpose Cleaner can remedy a variety of messes, including exhaust deposits, grease and oil. It is safe for upholstery, carpet, chrome, and other synthetics. With an antifogging agent, it is ideal for windows and mirrors. Simply spray the affected area and wipe it off with a soft cloth. The product is nontoxic and biodegradable so boaters can protect both their boat and the environment.
All Purpose Cleaner from Ducky Products is available in a 32-ounce spray bottle for $8.75 at web site www.duckyproducts.com. Contact Ducky Products, 530 South Lake Ave., #163, Pasadena, California 91101; 626-797-7226; or check web site www.duckyproducts.com.
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SodaBlast Systems, LLC is already recognized on both coasts as the safest, fastest and most environmentally friendly way to remove bottom paint without harming the delicate gelcoat underneath. What sodablasting can do for sailors who regularly cruise coastal waterways, it can also do for cruisers who favor the Great Lakes and other freshwater destinations – get boats into the water faster than traditional processes that haven’t kept pace with the changing marine market.
Sanding by hand is a messy, tiring and time consuming job. Sandblasting is also messy, can harm the environment and can ruin a boat’s gelcoat. When freshwater boaters ready their craft for the coming season after a long winter, they need a fast, reliable method for removing bottom paint and aquatic growth. Sodablasting is an accepted and proven process that lives up to its promises to protect both the gelcoat and the environment. Sodablasting is the right way to prepare the bottom of a boat for repair and repainting.
Sodablasting can be the right way to make extra money or start a business as well. It can be used for auto restoration and to remove graffiti off of building facades. Since marine industry work in much of the country is seasonal, SodaBlast Preferred Contractors located in the Great Lakes and the Plains states can have almost unlimited earning potential in these additional profit areas.
For more information, contact SodaBlast Systems, Inc., 5711 Shurmier Rd., Houston, TX 77048; 800-727-5707 Ext. 24; or check web site www.sodablastboats.com
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In stiff competition in a large field of antifouling products, rigorous, long-term testing proved that Hydrocoat by Pettit Marine Paint is leader of the pack. It earned an influential Gear of the Year Award from Powerboat Reports (PBR), the marine industry's "consumer report" publication.
"Editors have painstakingly tested product after product to find the best," according to PBR. "After one year in the drink, the 52 antifouling paints being tested were pulled for review. With those results, testers tapped Pettit's Hydrocoat as our top pick for an ablative/copolymer paint."
The key to its success is a unique formula of 40% cuprous oxide and durable resins. Hydrocoat uses water to effectively transfer paint to the craft. It is environmentally friendly, easy to apply, cleans up with water and has no disposal issues.
The coating resists algae, barnacles, zebra mussels and other fouling. Easily burnished to an ultra-slick film, the multi-season ablative improves a boat's acceleration, speed and efficiency. It's also tough enough to stand up to frequent trailering, launching and beaching. Hydrocoat was chosen to protect all new Sea Ray boats. Available i