Category: News

Fuel for Thought

How to decide the best option for your boat engine?

Different boat engines require different fuels, and as a boat owner, you may be able to choose between a number of options at the pump. Use the wrong fuel, however, and you could end up doing irreparable damage to your boat’s engine as well as its fuel tank. Let’s go over the basic types of fuel you might find when filling up and which ones to use and, more importantly, not use.

E15 Fuel—A Great Way to Ruin Your Boat Engine

Chances are you’ve heard of E15, and it’s becoming more and more popular. But this is the one fuel that you do not want to use to fill up your tank. Most engines built over the last 20 years can and do work with E10 fuel, so it isn’t a surprise that boat owners might believe that E15 will work with their engine as well. Unfortunately, this is a common misconception that can ruin a boat’s engine.

Even the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises against the use of E15 in boat engines. In fact, they’re so worried about it that they’ve forced companies to submit a Model Misfueling Mitigation Plan that must be approved before they can begin selling E15 at their stations.

What will happen if you put E15 in your boat’s engine or fuel tanks? E15 is made up of 15 percent ethanol, and ethanol can be highly corrosive. You’ll end up with deteriorated components and clogged fuel filters. Use the fuel long enough and it will result in fuel leaks and damaged fuel tanks. This is not only harmful to your boat, but it’s also dangerous to the environment. Many trailerable boats are filled up at the gas station, where E15 and now E85 are available and are designed for later-model automobile engines. Make sure to grab the right pump, E10 only, which may not be the same you use for your new truck.

So what type of fuel should you put in your boat? This will depend on your boat’s engine, but here are the main options:

• Diesel Fuel
• Ethanol-free Gasoline
• E10 Fuel
• Oil and Gas Mixtures

Diesel Fuel

While there are some new diesel outboard engines on the market, these are rare and your outboard is likely to be a gas engine. On the other hand, if you’ve purchased a larger boat with an inboard motor, you may find yourself with an engine that requires diesel fuel. Diesel fuel is more expensive, but it’s also more efficient. The engines that this fuel powers usually offer much higher torque and horsepower. On top of this, diesel engines tend to be more robust than gas-powered engines so you should get more life (and years) out of them.

Ethanol-free Gasoline

Ethanol-free gasoline does not come with the corrosive effects that gasoline with ethanol has; however, it is more expensive and can often be hard to find. Also, this fuel should not be used in an engine that has been using E10 fuel. The reason is that ethanol-free fuel uses the chemical additive methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) as an octane enhancer and to fulfill the oxygenate requirements set by Congress for the Clean Air Act but is now banned in some states. This additive, when combined with ethanol, can lead to clogged fuel filters.

E10 Fuel

When E10 fuel was first introduced into boat motors, it did not do well. This was partially attributed to the fact that E10 was being mixed with MTBE. There were other problems as well, but the main reason was that boat engines just weren’t designed to run on E10 fuel.

Fortunately, this is no longer the case, and E10 is safe for most boat engines. This being said, I’d advise all boat owners to check their owner’s manual before putting any fuel in their boat’s engine.

E10 is currently the easiest fuel to find. It’s also the least expensive, viable fuel that you can use in your boat. Most boat owners who have gas engines will probably use E10 fuel, including those who used ethanol-free gas in the past. When making the switch, be sure to completely remove all of the old fuel from the tanks and the engines, and clean them as well. Taking these steps will greatly reduce the chances of clogged fuel lines and other engine troubles.

Oil and Gas Mixtures

Many boat engines require a special mixture of oil and gas. The oil that is added to this fuel mixture helps lubricate the engine’s moving parts and makes the engine run smoother than a gas-only fuel.

The oil and gas ratios for each engine will vary so check your owner’s manual before creating these mixtures. Choose marine oil for this mixture to get the best performance and longest life out of the engine.

At the end of the day, boat fuel types aren’t too complicated. Read the owner’s manual, and you shouldn’t have any trouble choosing the right fuel for your boat.

Related

Lighthouses of the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks of North Carolina are a string of barrier islands jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond them are the treacherous waters of “The Graveyard of the Atlantic,” where many a ship has floundered. Numerous lighthouses were built to help mariners navigate the dangerous passages, but through time and the use of modern navigation technology, many lighthouses no longer serve as the primary navigational aid. Yet, they still stand as a reference to warn boats of dangerous area. Every lighthouse is unique and painted differently so boaters can identify each one and know their location to use as a daymark. At night, each working lighthouse has a distinctive light sequence as its identity.

Many lighthouses have been restored and are open to visitors who can climb to the top and get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area. Typically, there is a fee for this which is used for preservation and upkeep. Keep in mind that the lighthouses are often closed in the winter, so check ahead to see if and when you can visit.

Currituck Beach Lighthouse

The farthest north of the lights is the Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla. An impressive red brick tower rises 162 feet above the ground. The 220 steps are considered a relatively easy climb with numerous landings to stop and rest. Along the way, you’ll see exhibits that tell the lighthouse’s history. From the top, you’ll have great views of Currituck Sound, the Atlantic Ocean, and the northern Outer Banks.

Completed in 1875, Currituck was the last major brick lighthouse built on the Outer Banks. It was left unpainted to make it different from the other lighthouses. The lighthouse is situated among many restored buildings, one of which has been converted into a gift shop. The surrounding grounds are known for their scenic beauty.

Bodie Island Lighthouse

The Bodie (pronounced “body”) Island Lighthouse is just south of Nags Head. At 156 feet high and with prominent black and white horizontal stripes, the Bodie Light is a striking feature. After earlier versions failed, this structure was finished in 1872. The lighthouse was open to the public in 2013 after an extensive renovation. Climb the 214 steps to the top and you’ll be rewarded with glorious views of Pamlico Sound and the Oregon Inlet. The keeper’s duplex is also restored and houses a gift shop, ranger office, and visitors center.

One of the unique features of the Bodie Island Light station is that it is surrounded by ponds and wetlands. Boardwalks lead visitors to observation stations to catch a glimpse of birds and other wildlife.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

The most famous of the Outer Banks lights is the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse located in Buxton on Hatteras Island. After earlier lights were deemed too short and not effective, a new structure was completed in 1870. At 208 feet tall, the Hatteras Light is the tallest lighthouse in the United States. The great height and visibility were deemed necessary because sea conditions just offshore make this area one of the most notorious for shipwrecks. The distinctive black and white diagonal stripes were added in 1873.

The lighthouse is open to the public, and the 269 steps traversing the 200 feet of elevation make this a challenging climb, especially in the heat of summer. As a reward, you’ll get great views of Hatteras Island, Pamlico Sound, and the Atlantic Ocean. Nearby, there is a visitor’s center and museum.

In the 1900s, beach erosion continually threatened the structure. When all efforts to stop the encroaching ocean failed, the entire lighthouse was moved 2,900 feet over 23 days in a monumental engineering feat in 1999, and is now well back from the water.

Ocracoke Lighthouse

The Ocracoke Lighthouse is located on Ocracoke Island and is the southernmost of the Outer Banks lights. There are no bridges to the island. Ferry service is available from Hatteras Island to the north and from mainland North Carolina to the south.

The Ocracoke Lighthouse opened in 1823 and is now the oldest operational lighthouse in North Carolina and the second oldest in the nation. The lighthouse is in a unique setting—a residential area on only two acres of land. It is within easy walking or biking distance from many locations on the south end of the island.

Unfortunately, the lighthouse is not open for climbing and there are no visitor facilities on site. Parking is extremely limited. You are, however, welcome to visit and take pictures. At only 75 feet tall, this is the shortest of the Outer Banks lights, but its pure-white exterior makes it a striking landmark. The short stature was all that was necessary to safely guide mariners through Ocracoke Inlet and into Pamlico Sound.

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse

In the small town of Manteo on Roanoke Island, you will find the most unusual of the Outer Banks lights, the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse. The original lighthouse was established in 1831 and was used to guide nearby ships into Croatan Sound; therefore, great height wasn’t necessary for visibility. Destroyed and rebuilt several times, the last working light was opened in 1877. Decommissioned in 1955, the structure was lost in an ill-fated move. The current light is a replica of the 1877 lighthouse. Finished in 2004, it’s only 37 feet tall and can be found at the end of a short pier jutting out into Roanoke Sound. outerbankslighthousesociety.org

By Ed Brotak, Southern Boating July 2020

Related

Scandinavian Midsummer

Anchor out to celebrate the longest day of the year. Recipes serve 4.

One weekend in late June, a few years ago, several of us decided to do a midsummer cruise to celebrate the longest day of the year. We rafted our boats together in a beautiful, quiet cove, explored the area with our kayaks, and gathered on our boat to watch the late sunset and toast the coming cruising season. Inspired by Scandinavian Midsummer merriment, I created a menu for the longest day of the year that featured Scandinavian fare: simple salads, seafood, and summer fruit.

While Scandinavian Midsummer was traditionally celebrated on the summer solstice, it now takes place anywhere between June 20-25. Some Scandinavians just head to a bar or gather with friends. Others host extravagant parties that feature regional folk dances, vast smorgasbords, and live music that goes on for days. Our very conservative midsummer celebration featured a beautiful sunset and the following picnic fare along with iced vodka and aquavit. Skål!

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Aquavit Spritzer

1 Tbsp. sugar

1 Tbsp. hot water

3/4 cup berry preserves

4 cups soda water (32 ounces)

4 cups aquavit or vodka

4 slices lemon for garnish

Combine sugar and hot water in a pitcher. Stir to dissolve. Add preserves. Use a wooden spoon to stir, loosen, and mix preserves. Gently stir in soda water and aquavit. Fill tumblers with ice. Divide aquavit spritzer equally among glasses and garnish each with a lemon slice.

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Midnight Sun Smorgasbord

16 oz. package Rye Crisp Crackers (Wasa or similar crackers)

8 oz. dense rye or pumpernickel bread

8 oz. Havarti cheese with caraway or dill, thinly sliced

8 oz. cream cheese

16 oz. steamed shrimp, peeled

8 oz. jar of pickled herring

16 oz. smoked salmon or other smoked fish (mackerel, sardines)

1 lb. of warm new boiled potatoes tossed in butter and scallions

½ cup each of sliced onions, scallions (or chives), radishes, and chopped dill

Mustard | Horseradish | Sour cream | Cocktail sauce | Quartered lemons | Salt and pepper

On a large platter, place sliced cheese, a scoop of cream cheese, shrimp, slices of smoked salmon, and a jar of pickled herring. Serve crackers and bread in a basket and potatoes in a warmed bowl.  Encourage diners to top crackers or bread with cheese or cream cheese, then a layer of shrimp, or some herring or salmon, and a dab of sour cream, mustard, cocktail sauce, or horseradish, then some herbs or a squeeze of lemon.

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Danish Cucumber Salad

2 large cucumbers, cut lengthwise, seeded, and sliced ¼-inch thick

2 Tbsp. salt

2 Tbsp. lemon juice

2 Tbsp. chopped dill, chives, or scallions

In a medium bowl, toss the cucumbers with the salt and lemon juice; set aside for 15-30 minutes (the longer the cucumbers rest, the less water they will have and the saltier they will taste). Drain and discard the excess liquid, taste the cucumbers, and adjust the lemon juice and salt as needed. Add half the herbs and toss to mix. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and garnish with the remaining herbs.

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Swedish Strawberry and Cream Cake

2 cups strawberries

1-2 Tbsp. sugar

1 oz. Framboise or Cointreau liqueur

1 sponge cake or angel food cake (store-bought or homemade)

2 cups whipped cream or sour cream

Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Slice strawberries. Add sugar and liqueur, let macerate for 1-2 hours. To serve, place a slice of cake onto each plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped or sour cream on each slice. Top with ¼ of macerated strawberries and a sprig of mint. Serve with additional sugar to sprinkle on top.

Related

Float Into Mardi Gras

Plan a stopover along the Mississippi River to join the festivities at New Orleans’ biggest celebration of the year.

It’s a little after eight in the morning. There’s a slight chill in the air, but the sun is shining on the assembled throng milling around in front of the Lost Love Lounge. They’re an otherworldly group who seem to have been beamed down from Mars. Two bare-chested men at 12 o’clock appear to be channeling centaurs? unicorns? sporting gold and silver foil lamé chaps, horns, and metallic face paint. A cute little family sidle by, mom and dad dressed like Thing One and Thing Two and pulling junior as…the Grinch? in a sequined wagon that also holds a cooler of beer. Just then a brass band with a Klezmer accent marches by, trombones swinging side to side in the breeze.

Welcome to just one of the ways that the locals celebrate Fat Tuesday, the culmination of Carnival season that kicks off on twelfth night, ushering in weeks of King Cakes, parades, fancy balls, marching bands, and lots and lots of beads, 12-and-a-half tons at last weigh-in.

Forget the drunken revelry on Bourbon Street, that’s for tourists. The real Mardi Gras is a family affair, a massive street party that rejoices in traditions new and old. It’s also a citywide event that’s still gloriously free of charge and sponsors.

’Tis the Season
Organized by krewes, the social clubs that work all year on themes, floats, and costumes, most parades roll from uptown down St. Charles Avenue to Canal Street, all primo viewing areas, with high school marching bands, 50-foot-long floats tricked out with LED lights and gobs of glitter, and dancing krewes with names like the Cherry Bombs and the Disco Amigos.

A season of nonstop action, Mardi Gras includes an endless array of parades, masked and unmasked balls, pageants, and King Cake parties. King Cakes are a coveted, usually sweet, cake topped with purple, green, and sugar. Pastry chefs around town get creative and add savory flavors and unusual fillings into the mix. Don’t miss a stop at Bywater Bakery, where eight flavors of King Cake, including three savory options, deliver the best of the season. Each cake has a tiny plastic baby placed inside. Getting the slice with the baby is a good omen and, traditionally, means you have to throw the next King Cake party.

There are some 80 parades in and around New Orleans, and it’s impossible to catch them all. But for Carnival lovers, the three original super krewes, Orpheus, Endymion, and Bacchus, are at the top of the viewing list—spectacular parades known for intricate floats, high-tech wizardry, awesome throws, and grand costumes and themes. The all-female Muses, with their shoe theme, and Nyx, who claim purses as their krewe symbol, also claim super krewe status, rolling between 25 and 42 elaborate floats. The biggest parades feature celebrity kings and queens with the likes of Kid Rock and Britney Spears holding court for a day.

Leading up to Fat Tuesday, visitors and locals adore the smaller, quirky, neighborhood parades like Chewbacchus, powered by sci-fi enthusiasts and rolling UFOs of wacky design; ‘tit Rex, a lineup of darling shoebox-sized mini-floats, and Barkus, a four-legged parade of costumed canine stars. The sassiest parade is definitely the racy and irreverent Krewe du Vieux, known for wild satire and adult themes lampooning local government and politicians, but in reality, anything goes.

Mardi Gras Day is always the day before Lent begins, which is determined by the Advent calendar and when Easter falls, so it’s different every year. On Mardi Gras Day, there are tons of options, from roving dance parties in Jackson Square to catching Zulu coconuts on Claiborne or seeing Rex, the King of Carnival, uptown. Step along with the brilliantly costumed march of Societé de Saint Anne, an array of nutty creatives that collect costumed marchers from Bywater into the French Quarter and stop at bars to celebrate along the way.

If you stay away from Bourbon Street and catch parades uptown in Mid-City, Metairie, and the West Bank, these celebrations are a family affair with multiple generations following traditions that have ruled Carnival since the French brought the fête to the Mississippi shores in the late 1600s.

Where to Stay

Mardi Gras is the highest of seasons, so it’s best to plan ahead. Prices spike, minimum-stay requirements, and “no cancellation” policies apply. That said, there are more than 22,000 rooms in the downtown area and more than 38,000 in the greater metro area, so there are options. The Eliza Jane, Jung Hotel & Residences, NOPSI, Holiday Inn Express, and HI New Orleans are just a few newish-hotels close to parade routes. Visit NewOrleans.com to source hotels of all stripes.

Marinas
There are a handful of full-service marinas available, close to the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain.

Schubert’s Marine: (504) 282-8136; schubertsmarine.com
Seabrook Harbor and Marine: (504) 283-6001; seabrookharbormarine.com
South Shore Harbor Marina: (504) 245-3152; marinasinneworleans.com

Getting Around
Traffic and navigating during Mardi Gras is a challenge because so many streets are closed. Bike, walk, take a cab, or rideshare, but expect premium prices and delays. Don’t let it get to you; it’s as much about the journey and who you meet and greet as the location. There is public transit, but check Regional Transit Authority for schedules. norta.com

Restrooms
Finding a bathroom along parade routes is a thing. There are several bars along the way. Some charge for wristbands and access, but it’s worth it. Some homeowners rent theirs, and the city brings in the ever-popular porta-potties. Go when you have the chance.

Safety
There’s plenty of police presence to make the walk from uptown to downtown safer than at other times of year. Still, pay attention to your surroundings and keep your stuff close.

Beyond the Parades
Order a Sazerac at Sazerac Bar. Cocktail wags largely agree that the Sazerac is one of the oldest examples of the American cocktail. Worship at the altar of Sazerac at the impeccable Sazerac Bar in the gorgeous Roosevelt Hotel where the 19th century original recipe is favored. therooseveltneworleans.com

Stay up late with Rebirth at the Maple Leaf. Rebirth Brass was founded in 1983 upon the notion that New Orleans brass doesn’t come in just one flavor. The Grammy Award-winning band, known for its legendary Tuesday late night gig at the Maple Leaf, uptown on Oak Street, upholds the tradition of brass and plays it forward by bringing funk and hip-hop into the mix. mapleleafbar.com

Roll on down the river. A ride on the Steamboat Natchez isn’t just for tourists. A throwback to the days when steamboats cruised the mighty Mississippi for commerce and pleasure, the Natchez reveals just how busy this working river remains. It’s a real treat to travel the river the old school way, sipping a fine bloody Mary and dancing to the Dukes of Dixieland, a brass forward jazz band that never disappoints. steamboatnatchez.com

Visit a Mardi Gras Museum. While you’re at Arnaud’s drinking a French 75 at the bar, extend the festive mood with a visit to the Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum upstairs, a lavish costume display that will have you longing for carnival season. arnaudsrestaurant.com

Eat This
Off the beaten tourist track, the family-run Katie’s in Mid-City is a friendly neighborhood restaurant that serves a winning “cochon de lait” sandwich, a two-hander stuffed with tender, slow-roasted pork and topped with horseradish Creole coleslaw. katiesinmidcity.com

Although Central Grocery is the original spot for the Italian muffuletta sandwich, head to Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski’s Cochon Butcher, a swine palace of piggy goodness that dishes a killer version stuffed with house cured meats. cochonbutcher.com

Save room for dessert at the handsomely redone Brennan’s on Royal Street. After a cocktail-fueled Breakfast at Brennan’s, a three-hour process powered by the likes of turtle soup and eggs Sardou, it’s time for the floor show and tableside bananas foster, a dramatically flambéed dessert that was invented right here. brennansneworleans.com

It’s quite a show, and the Mardi Gras Parade Tracker app (mardigrasparadetracker.com) can help you navigate your way. Another resource is Arthur Hardy’s Mardi Gras Guide (mardigrasguide.com), which is also sold at most French Quarter stores. Enjoy, and laissez les bons temps rouler!

Related

Summer of Change

View from the Pilothouse

This summer has been one for the books. A little scary, for sure, and definitely full of anxiety and uncertainty. I’ve learned a lot about remaining calm and taking things in stride, although running a business during these times has been nerve-racking. Fortunately, boating became one of those beneficial and acceptable ways to social distance, and because boaters have acted responsibly after the initial flurry of raft-ups and sandbar parties, we’re able to continue doing what we love most…getting out on the water.

Recreational boating has grown tremendously over the summer because it’s a good way to enjoy the outdoors without the crowds. The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) reported that May’s recreational boat sales were the highest monthly total since 2007, and to follow suit, wholesale boat shipments (from builders) were up 60 percent in June compared to May. MarineMax reported a 20 percent revenue increase from the same period last year, and Nautical Ventures has shown a one-year increase of 233 percent. Roger Moore of Nautical Ventures said, “We had placed and received a healthy order for boats, tenders, and water toys with our various manufacturers before COVID, as it’s our philosophy to stock and warehouse inventory so we have boats in stock and available for immediate delivery. While the builders were temporarily closed, we still had lots of boats to sell, which allowed us to quickly transfer boats and merchandise among our five Florida dealerships.” The NMMA noted that fishing boats, jet boats, and personal watercraft lead the way in new-boat sales. That’s not to say the marine industry hasn’t taken a big hit because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s promising that more people are getting into the lifestyle.

Speaking of Nautical Ventures, Southern Boating TV debuted in August with its first episode—an interview between our Editor in Chief and Roger Moore, Nautical Ventures’ owner and CEO. nauticalventures.com

As we all know, the pandemic has put the kibosh on events around the country, including boat shows. Many are taking the virtual route, such as the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX), one of the largest shows for the latest marine technology, and many builders are opting for their own virtual boat shows, some even scheduling in-water shows by reservation only to control the flow. However, there are a few boat shows that are currently sticking with their plans. The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is confident that the protocols they’ve put in place will keep staff, exhibitors, and visitors safe and healthy. FLIBS has developed AllSecure, standards that incorporate physical distancing (wider docks included), a contactless ticketing system, required face coverings, hygiene stations, and enhanced deep cleaning each day. I have to say, it’ll be interesting to see how it all plays out. It can be done, but a lot relies on everyone’s awareness, behavior, and caring. That goes without saying to contain the virus.

While thinking about all this, I remembered that one year from this September issue will be our 50^th anniversary. Yep, September 2021 will be 50 years since my dad started Southern Boating. So much has happened throughout the years, and I look forward to many more, but in the meantime, we are planning to celebrate with fanfare. This is one boating industry business that plans to be around for another 50 years.

Related

On the Cutting Edge

LIVETARGET brings lifelike reality to fishing lures.

By Tom Schlichter, Southern Boating June 2020

There’s a wide-held belief among veteran anglers that many lures are designed to catch fisherman as much as they are to catch fish. No doubt, the premise is true to some degree. In order to turn the heads of prospective buyers, new designs, shapes, colors, scents, and even flavors of lures are introduced every year and touted as features and then packaged in bright colors and marketed under catchy names.

“Somewhere along the way, a lot of manufacturers strayed from making lures that had realistic appeal to their ultimate targets, the fish,” says Victor Cook, a founding partner of LIVETARGET, headquartered in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada. “We’ve always taken a different approach. While we certainly understand the value of good marketing, we built our company from the ground up by making lures that are as lifelike and anatomically correct as possible. ‘Match-the-Hatch’ is our credo, it’s in our company DNA. Simply put, we believe artificial lures can be better fish catchers when they look like the natural forage that predators hunt.”

Indeed, that would seem to be the case as LIVETARGET lures do look amazingly realistic. Most of their offerings come in natural color schemes, their baitfish imitations have perfect profiles, dark eyes, scaled bodies, and precisely placed pectoral fins and gill slits. But the company has gone further than simply replicating the appearance of baitfish species, they’ve actually invented new technology to do it.

“Lures not only have to look great to be most effective,” says Cook, who is largely involved with the development of saltwater products for LIVETARGET. “They have to perform well, too. They need to move naturally in the water and give off a little flash as their backs roll from side to side. They must be able to stop, go, and twitch just like the real baits they are meant to emulate. In other words, you need both form and function to build the ultimate lure. Tying these two aspects together is where we’ve spent much of our research over the past several years.”

To reach that goal, LIVETARGET invented a new, specialized injection manufacturing process called Injected Core Technology (ICT). Introduced at the 2019 ICAST show, the world’s largest sportfishing trade show, ICT allows the lure’s inner core to host a precise minnow profile encapsulated in an exo-skin covering that drives its vibrating tail or body action. Proprietary metal powder in the inner core ensures vibrant, lifelike flash, and the kind of high-quality realism game fish can’t resist while the clear, soft plastic exo-skin virtually vanishes beneath the surface. The result is a lure that looks anatomically perfect and sports the action to back it up.

“We know from science and our own experience that predator fish primarily focus on baitfish profile, so that’s really where we start,” explains Cook. “We take the forage we want to mimic and match it as precisely as possible. But matching the hatch is not just about appearance, it is about replicating a baitfish’s movements and swimming action, too. With ICT, we’ve been able to blend the natural appearance with the natural action of the baits we’ve produced. The results have been really impressive.”

LIVETARGET’s Slow-Roll Shiner, Flutter Sardine, and Twitch Minnow baits illustrate well the ICT advantage. All three are built around flawless reproductions of minnow baits, yet they have vastly different actions. The Slow-Roll Shiner has a fairly thick profile and hard-thumping soft-plastic swimbait action that incorporates a slight side-to-side roll to give off extra flash along the lure’s flanks. The Flutter Sardine, in contrast, performs like a spoon or jig with the inner core producing a vibrant flash and a feathered tail hook creating just enough drag to hold the points in the ideal strike position as it shimmies to the bottom. Watch it sink and you will see it not only wobbles, it also rocks forward and back. The Twitch Minnow is a small profile, soft-plastic baitfish imitation that can be rigged weedless-style or impaled on a jig. This lure lies on its side as you twitch it during the retrieve. It looks like a dying or feeding minnow, gliding and quivering with the slightest jig of the rod. All three offerings can tempt anything from redfish, snook, jacks, and sea trout down south to stripers, weakfish, sea bass, and fluke in Mid-Atlantic or Northeast waters.

“It’s important to get the appearance right, but it’s the clear, soft-plastic exo-skin that drives all the action,” explains Cook. “With it, we can refine, balance, or create new swimming motions, include a side-to-side roll, or add casting weight without disfiguring or changing the size or profile of the visible target. Because the exo-skin is nearly invisible, we can hide the action generator, such as a paddle tail, twitch tail, or spoon shape, for a more natural, appropriately sized appearance.”

LIVETARGET draws on a wealth of underwater video footage and extensive databases it has complied over the years to help match the hatch with each new product. They have an extensive lineup in both the freshwater and saltwater realms, and they were quite successful even before developing their ICT technology. Last year, their Slow-Roll Shiner, Flutter Sardine, and Erratic Shiner, all ICT products, each won Best in Category New Product Showcase Awards at the ICAST show. Eight additional lures in their lineup have captured New Product Showcase awards since 2011.

“We are really proud of our ICT options,” says Cook. “But we have plenty of other lures in our saltwater lineup that can stand on their own. In fact, for redfish, snook, and sea trout down around Sarasota and Tampa Bay, where I do a lot of my saltwater fishing, I love throwing our Scaled Sardine Twitch Bait. I can catch anything and everything on it. Just twitch, twitch, pause, and repeat. It’s a blast to see that lure get smashed. Our Fleeing Shrimp is another awesome saltwater lure. It looks incredibly lifelike, and you can cast it a mile. Let it settle and then just skip it back across the bottom where sea trout, snook, and summer flounder like to hang out. It has a shrimp-scented body with an embedded glass rattle that makes a ‘tic, tic, tic’ sound, perfectly imitating a fleeing shrimp.”

Just before we went to press, the 2020 ICAST show, which had been scheduled for July, was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. Still, LIVETARGET has no plans to sit on its laurels.

“We’re going to take this opportunity to finish working on an incredible, groundbreaking project,” reveals Cook. “Imagine lures that provide their own unique strike-triggering action or that can flee and duck for cover like actual live forage, no batteries needed. With these, we plan to take the ‘match the hatch’ theory to a higher level than ever before, combining lifelike appearance with ultra-realistic action all driven by revolutionary new designs that will benefit anglers everywhere.”

Stay tuned…and lunkers beware! livetargetlures.com

Related

Wash It Down

Plan out the necessary steps before installing a deck wash down system.

By Frank Lanier, Southern Boating June 2020

There are basically two types of boat owners: those who enjoy the benefits of having a deck wash down system and the “haters” who wish they did. Everything from fish blood to the evidence that no seasick remedy is foolproof is easier to remove on demand rather than back at the dock when dried to a concrete-like consistency. Installation of a wash down system is within the ability of most DIYers, so, as a shout-out to the haters, here’s how to make it happen.

Water Supply Options

Before grabbing the drill or hole saw, begin by planning out the entire installation (hose runs, pump location, power supply, etc.). One of the first decisions to make is determining the wash down system’s water source. Most are plumbed as a raw-water system, meaning it utilizes the water in which your boat is floating. For boats used in saltwater, this means you’ll still have to deal with the salty residue left behind once back at the dock, but a salty boat is better than a nasty one any day.

Raw-water systems require either a dedicated thru-hull and seacock or connection to an existing system, typically by installing a “T” fitting in the system’s hose. Tapping into an existing system is a common choice as most owners are hesitant to drill holes in their boat. This option also has the benefit of allowing you to complete the installation with the boat in the water by simply shutting off the seacock.

However, use caution when selecting which system you tap into. Some (like engine raw- water intakes) are not suitable choices as doing so could negatively impact the volume of water available to the primary system.

Choosing a Pump

Pump selection and adequate water flow are the most crucial aspects of any wash down system. Nothing is more frustrating than trying to power off anchor chain mud with a wimpy stream of water. The trick is finding a moderately priced pump that not only provides sufficient pressure with minimal power draw but can also stand up to the marine environment.

Output pressure for a typical deck wash down pump ranges from three to 12 gallons per minute with prices of $100 or less to more than $1,000. Buying a deck wash down package (a kit that includes pump, deck fitting, deck hose, etc.) will often save money. Something else to consider when shopping around is the pump’s warranty, which can vary from one to three years (a longer warranty period being better).

Installation Considerations

When selecting a location for your wash down pump, choose an accessible area well above the normal accumulation of bilge water. The pump should be located between the water supply and planned deck outlet, ideally as close as possible to its power source (to simplify wire runs).

As pumps are more efficient at pushing water than pulling, the spot should also be as close as possible to the supply thru-hull.

Be sure the pump installation itself is in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and that it includes an intake strainer between the pump and water intake (to prevent pump damage due to debris).

Pumps vary in their ability to self-prime or lift water vertically in order to start pumping. Some are rated at 8 or 9 feet, while others may only be able to overcome 2 feet of “head” when pumping. Make sure the location you’ve chosen doesn’t exceed the pump’s self-priming ability.

When planning your installation, you’ll also need to determine where to position the deck outlet. Most boat owners simply mount it on the foredeck (close to the anchor) as cleaning ground tackle is often viewed as its primary job; however, there’s no law of the sea stating it has to be there. Installation amidships allows you to use a single, shorter length of hose to reach both bow and stern. Another option is installing two outlets, one in the cockpit and one at the bow.

Regardless of where you decide to install the outlet, make sure you have enough space beneath the deck to accommodate the hose and associated fittings and that you won’t be drilling into anything unexpected (such as wiring or equipment) while cutting the mounting hole. It’s also a good idea to plan out the hose run before starting to verify ease of access to all of the required areas.

When cutting through cored decks, seal the edges of the hole with thickened epoxy to prevent water intrusion into the coring. Bedding the fitting with a suitable marine caulking will also help keep water at bay.

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Components of a typical wash down system install:

1. 12-volt DC wash down pump (marine-grade with pressure switch)
2. Corrosion-proof through deck fitting
3. Marine-grade hose
4. Appropriately sized circuit breaker or fuse
5. Marine-grade wire and connectors
6. Stainless steel hose clamps (enough to double clamp each hose transition point)
7. Intake strainer
8. Y or T connector

Related

Cheaper CHIRP

See below more clearly with improved and less-expensive fishfinders.

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating June 2020

Okay, so you enjoy fishing and you’re researching the latest in fish-finding sonar technology. But “latest” and “technology” evoke lots of dollar signs.

Usually your penny-pinching detector would be correct; however, there are affordable fishfinders. Today, CHIRP (Compressed High-Intensity Radar Pulse) sonar fish-finding systems from manufacturers such as Furuno, Garmin, Lowrance, and Simrad range from $179 to $1,500—and much more. Install it yourself or add a few hours of service time and before long, you can be viewing fish and bottom features you never imagined.

“If fishing is your game, CHIRP technology is an eye-opener to the world below,” says Craig Cushman, director of marketing for Airmar Technology Corporation, a leading transducer company. “A CHIRP fishfinder connected to an Airmar CHIRP-ready transducer delivers amazing details of baitfish, game fish, and the seabed. Choose from high-, medium-, or low-frequency bands (or use them all) to match the depth and species you’re targeting. CHIRP is a game changer.”

Conventional sonar is transmitted on single discrete frequencies, such as 200 kHz or 50 kHz. CHIRP enables pulses across a broad band of frequencies; upward of 100 different ones, and varying beam widths to interrogate a target from just a single transducer.

“A fisherman getting into CHIRP for the first time should do his homework to make sure what he gets matches his needs,” says Scott Heffernan, vice president of sales at The GPS Store. “A serious offshore angler who has a two-kilowatt traditional sonar on his boat isn’t going to be satisfied by adding a three hundred-dollar CHIRP unit. At the same time, that unit might be an eye-opening breakthrough for an angler who spends his time fishing inshore wrecks or coastal patch reefs.”

Because The GPS Store offers robust online sales worldwide, the staff is adept at working with customers remotely. The staff can coach anglers via email or phone to find the best match for their type of boat, their needs, and their budget.

“Our Furuno GP1871 chartplotter with CHIRP and a TM150M transom-mount transducer is a great entry-level setup,” says Eric Kunz, Furuno senior product manager. Online research showed the combo can be purchased for less than $1,000. “Make sure you have the placement right on the boat. That can make or break the performance of the system. If you don’t get it properly placed on the transom the screen will just wipe out. That’s true with any echo sounder product. Once you do that, you can just about count individual fish.”

Lower production costs for the manufacturer has allowed CHIRP technology to become nearly a standard feature.

“The biggest change we have seen since CHIRP’s introduction is the spread of this technology into almost every product that we make with a sonar,” says Jeremiah Clark, sonar product director at Navico, the parent company of Lowrance and Simrad. “When we first launched CHIRP, it was in a select group of products, and now every ‘conventional’ sonar display we sell, with the exception of the entry-level HOOK² 4x and HOOK² 4x GPS, has CHIRP functionality built right in.”

As with any other sonar, one of the most important things, regardless if you spend a few hundred dollars or a few thousand dollars on gear, is that the sonar can only be as good as the transducer installation. If you are well versed in installing a transducer, or if you can easily replace an existing transducer that has provided steady performance, then this can be a do-it-yourself project.

“If you are not well versed, or not putting in a direct replacement, it might be best to get help from a pro installer,” explains Clark. “Transducer location, depth, mounting angle…these can all have dramatic negative impacts on sonar performance. Any cavitation (air bubbles under the face of the transducer) will cause a poor to no image. Sonar is great when transmitting/receiving through uninterrupted water flow, but sonar (regardless of price) is terrible at reading through air.”

In a price range from $700 to $1,500, a coastal ocean boater could add the Lowrance Elite Ti2 or Simrad GO series with a seven-inch display screen. Select a larger display screen or better transducer and the price will go up.

“For a user with a bit more budget and wanting a great performer without going all the way up to the top performance tier, I think a better choice would be the Lowrance HDS LIVE or Simrad NSS Evo3 product lines,” Clark says. “A user can get a good setup in this range (seven-inch displays screen as a minimum) for around one thousand, two hundred dollars to two thousand dollars or more, depending on the type of transducer they choose to fit their needs.”

Still, adding CHIRP is almost inevitable because it comes standard on most sonar and fish-finding systems today.

“You can get CHIRP sonar for as little as one hundred and seventy-nine dollars and ninety-nine cents,” says Dave Dunn, Garmin’s director of marine sales. “The price really depends on the size of screen the user wants and if they want a combo unit (GPS+Sonar) or a stand-alone fishfinder. Screen sizes range from four inches all the way up to sixteen inches. There is a unit and price point for every boater and every budget.”

CHIRP’s top three benefits are target resolution, versatility, and sensitivity. Because CHIRP is transmitting over a broad band of frequencies, it has a tremendous advantage over traditional 50/200 frequency transducers.

“The ability to have fifty to one hundred different frequencies interrogate targets in the water and reflecting back energy from targets gives the software the ability to compress the signals into clearly defined targets on the fishfinder display,” says Cushman. “A school of baitfish can look like many small targets versus a blob. What used to look like a blob down deep can now be defined as a school of game fish. Versatility comes in the form of multiple frequency bands in the same transducer, so an angler can have a low band for deep water fishing and a high-frequency band for shallow water. Both are the right tool for a specific fishing opportunity and can be used together or individually.

“The sensitivity aspect is important when you realize that specific frequencies can reflect off certain species better than others,” Cushman continues. “The air bladders in fish vary by species, and CHIRP can send a whole band of different frequencies into the water column. Some of these frequencies reflect off fish species better than others and increase your chance of seeing more under the boat. Tuna fisherman like the upper sixty kHz frequencies. Others like higher frequencies for species like snapper and smaller fish. With CHIRP, you’re covered across a broader spectrum of frequencies.”

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The Secret (and Not So Secret) Spots

The Bahamas has an abundance of hidden coves, undisturbed beaches, and little gems not on the typical tourist map.

By Chris Casswell, Southern Boating May 2020

I had just checked out on a boat for a Bahamas bareboat charter and was leaning against the counter chatting with a young man about things to see and do when I noticed that the office’s secretary kept giving him the stink eye. I didn’t know why until the rest of my crew came in and we went over to look at some brochures. I heard her hiss to him, “Don’t be givin’ away all of our secrets, mon…he a mainlander.”

So, I thought, there are secrets that Bahamians keep to themselves, tourism be damned. Well, I’m here to share some of those secrets.

Great Inagua

On this island, the farthest from Nassau and seemingly frozen in time, don’t miss the flamingos, which hang out on the salt flats created by Morton’s Salt in the ’30s. Yes, the “When it rains, it pours” folks have a major salt harvest here. Having been nursed for seven decades by the National Audubon Society (starting from a herd of just 100 birds), West Indian flamingoes now outnumber humans on the island 80-to-1 with some 80,000 in residence. Don’t stop there. Inagua is also known for Bahamas parrots and Inagua hummingbirds as well as wild donkeys, goats, and boar.

Beachside/Roadside Conch Bars

You’ll find these on every island and lining many of the beaches. Usually just pieces of driftwood thrown together, they offer superb conch menus and ice-cold local beers. Try the conch salads (the one shown is from Joe’s Conch Shack near Bailey Town on Bimini), jerk chicken, and fish offerings.

Dean’s Blue Hole

If Earth was a bowling ball, the blue holes would be where you put your fingers. There are blue holes worldwide, but only one is deeper than Dean’s Blue Hole and drops down to an astounding 663 feet, which is far below what the human body can tolerate. Nevertheless, this is where free divers come to test their skill, competing to see who can dive the deepest (and live) on a single lungful of air. The current record is 331 feet. Yikes! Dean’s Blue Hole is located off a sandy beach just up the coast from Clarence Town on Long Island. The Flying Fish Marina is in Clarence Town and is a designated port of entry. deansbluehole.org; flyingfishmarina.com

Swimming Pigs

Most everyone has heard about the swimming pigs, but I’m always surprised by experienced skippers who’ve never been to Pig Beach on Big Major Cay in the Exumas. Maybe they just hate bacon. The pigs come right up to the boat expecting to be fed, so do bring food, and be sure to keep your fingers out of the way. There’s good anchorage offshore.

Blue Lagoon Island

Also known as Salt Cay, this private island has a tourism side that makes it popular with tour boats, especially later in the day. Not so much a secret, the island has a hidden lagoon, coral reefs, exotic birds, and a beach shared with sea lions, sea turtles, and dolphin encounters. bahamasbluelagoon.com

Queen’s Baths and Glass Window Bridge

Take a taxi to get the best vantage point where two bodies of water meet: the clear, blue Atlantic and the turquoise Caribbean. What is spectacular is the distinct separation between this pair directly under the Glass Window Bridge along Queen’s Highway on Eleuthera. Originally painted by Winslow Homer in 1885, the natural bridge was washed away by hurricanes.

The Queen’s Baths is just south of the Glass Window Bridge and dotted with sun-warmed hot pools. Take reef walkers because there are urchins, and it can be slippery. Skip it at high tide when the baths refill. discover-eleuthera-bahamas.com

Nurse Sharks of Compass Cay

These bottom-feeding creatures make a squealing, high-pitched sound if you’re near them underwater. Don’t worry, you can mingle with them without thinking about Jaws. A private island in the Outer Exumas, it’s reachable by tender (a long haul) from Staniel Cay, so the pleasant Compass Cay Marina is a better choice. compasscaymarina.com

Bimini Road

Could this be the original Atlantis, the legendary city that sank off the earth 11,000 years ago? Evenly spaced stones stretch a half mile and look like…what? A road to a missing city? Part of a wall? Sadly, they have no tool marks, and carbon dating suggests they were made by geological forces and erosion, but it’s still fun to visit and imagine. Located about five miles off North Bimini in 18 feet of water, it’s a bit of a voyage in a tender and probably more enjoyable to take one of the snorkeling tours from a Bimini marina.

The Musician

Just off Rudder Cut Cay in the Exumas, a life-sized sculpture of a mermaid lounges against the bench of a baby grand piano. Placed by magician David Copperfield, who owns 11 islands, it was sunk as a quirky surprise for his guests. Snorkelers who can hold their breath can swim down and pose on the bench as if playing a tune. It’s about 12-15 feet down from the surface. The islands are private, but the beaches to the high-tide mark are public, and there is good anchorage nearby. Ask locals for directions: It’s just off a small sea cave at the northern end of the beach.

Pelican Beach on Great Exuma

Better known as Tropic of Cancer Beach because it intersects with the Tropic of Cancer latitude line, Pelican Beach has glorious golden sand and a small hut nearby with a painted line marking the latitude on its floor. Located in the Moore Hill establishment, there is good anchorage offshore. Be sure to sign your name in the hut alongside other boaters.

Cat Island

Truly one of the “secret” Bahamian islands, Cat Island is south of Eleuthera and far enough off the usual routes that many skip it. Its Mount Alvernia, at 206 feet, is the highest point in the Bahamas. A 10-minute hike takes you to the Hermitage, built by reclusive priest-architect Father Jerome in the ’30s for fabulous views, especially at sunset. Cat Island preserves an old-island way of life for its 1,800 residents, with Obeah religion and ripsaw (rake and scrape) music still going strong. The boyhood home of actor Sidney Poitier, the 48-mile island has no resorts, no cruise ships, and The Marina at Hawk’s Nest Resort (hawks-nest.com) is the smart place to stay. If you’re into eerie, check out the Griffin Bat Cave, once used as hurricane shelter for locals and now home to thousands of bats. You can hear and see them as they wake at sunset to leave.

Harbour Island

Called “Briland” by insiders, Harbour Island is a popular stop for yachties, but they often never leave the pleasures of Valentines Marina (valentinesresort.com) or Romora Bay Marina (romorabay.com), so they miss the bakeries in Dunmore Town. They don’t know about pineapple tarts or the incredible Bahamian bread from Henry Sands, whose bread earned him an invitation to Princess Di’s wedding. Too late for breakfast? Have lunch at Sip Sip (Bahamian for “gossip”). You’ll be sorry if you overlook the lobster quesadillas and wash them down with spicy margaritas on the patio. sipsiprestaurant.com

The Dolphin House Museum

Built of recycled materials by Bimini author and historian Ashley Saunders, the museum in Alice Town on Bimini has been called “A Poem in Stone.” It’s well worth the donation of eight bucks to wander through the amazing images and artistry that are impossible to explain. An easy walk from Bimini Big Game Club or Bimini Blue Water Marina. dolphin-house-museum.business.site

Straw Market

Well known in some circles, the Straw Market in Nassau is hokey, touristy, and great fun that is too often overlooked. Practice your haggling skills to get hats, bags, jewelry, and souvenirs. Go either early in the morning before the tourists, or late in the day when the sellers are making their best deals.

Atlantis on Pleasure Island

Sure it’s big and touristy, but there’s so much you’ll miss. Tuck into the Atlantis Marina, which rivals Monaco for quality, and you get access to what has been called “Vegas By the Sea.” Things you’ll probably miss is Aquaventure, its 141-acre water park; the Baths swimming pool, with waterfalls and caves; and the Dig, where you can snorkel in an aquarium. You may not know there are two areas with waterslides: Mayan Temple and Power Tower. atlantisbahamas.com

There are areas of the Bahamas too often overlooked by visiting skippers, and, yes, I do know about that great reef for snorkeling, but I’m not sharing. Even us mainlanders have our secrets.

Related

Bahamian Cocktail Party

Local fish, fruits, veggies, and rum are the perfect ingredients. Recipes serve 4.

While in the Bahamas in 2003, cruising in company with a group of friends, the participating yachts gathered dockside one sweltering afternoon for cocktails and nibbles. Every boat owner brought out a favorite drink and an appetizer to share and we had a feast! A pitcher of icy Goombay Smashes (a drink named after a folk music form in the Bahamas based on African rhythms that are beat on goatskin drums) got us started.

One cruiser, who had spent time in the Abacos, bought a beautiful piece of conch (already out of the shell) from a local fisherman, and made a delicious conch ceviche right before our eyes. While we watched, our mouths watering, he diced the raw conch into fresh lime and lemon juice along with onion, sweet red pepper, jalapeño peppers, and salt, then served it in a bowl surrounded by taco chips. The salty flavor of the ocean along with the surprise of sunny citrus and heat hit us at first bite. We were hooked on conch ceviche. Smoky Abaco fish dip with crackers and crudités, fresh avocado and citrus salad, shrimp cocktail, and a chilled fruit salad completed the memorable feast.

Some island music got us dancing, while more wonderful dishes added to our impromptu celebration and inspired all of us to be more creative and look to the Bahamas for appetizers on hot days aboard.

Goombay Smash

4 oz. rum

4 oz. coconut rum

8 oz. each pineapple and orange juice

¼ cup grenadine syrup

4 maraschino cherries

Mix together liquid ingredients. Pour 7 ounces of drink mixture into each of 4 tall glasses filled halfway with ice. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

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Conch Ceviche

3 cups raw conch cut into ¼-inch dice (substitute raw fish, scallops, cooked crab, shrimp, or lobster, if desired)

4 Tbsp. each lime and lemon juice

½ cup each onion and sweet pepper, cut into ¼-inch dice

1 Tbsp. minced jalapeño peppers, or more to taste (or 1 tsp. hot sauce)

½ tsp. salt, or more to taste

Place the conch in a large bowl. Add the citrus juices, onion, sweet pepper, jalapeño peppers, and salt. Toss to combine. Marinate up to one hour. Serve in lettuce cups or with taco chips.

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Abaco-Style Fish Dip

8 oz. smoked fish, peeled, boned, and finely chopped (if no smoked fish is available, use equivalent amount of canned sardines, trout, or mackerel packed in oil or water (drained for recipe) with a dash of Worcestershire sauce or liquid smoke, then proceed with recipe)

½ cup each sour cream and softened cream cheese

2 Tbsp. onion, minced

Pinch of dill (optional)

Zest of 1 lemon or lime

1 tsp. lemon or lime juice

Pinch of cayenne pepper or dash of hot sauce

Pinch of salt and pepper, if needed

Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Taste and adjust flavor with salt and pepper, citrus, and hot sauce. Serve with your favorite bread, crackers, or raw veggies and a bottle of hot sauce on the side.

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Bahamian Fruit Salad

4 Tbsp. lime juice

2 Tbsp. sugar

2 Tbsp. vinegar

5-6 cups cubed or sliced fruit (papaya, melon, mango, pineapple, citrus, bananas)

1 Tbsp. coconut rum (optional)

½ cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

Whisk together lime juice, sugar, and vinegar in a large bowl. When cutting fruit, collect juices and add to dressing along with rum. Add fruit to dressing along with cilantro and mix gently. Serve in small bowls or cups with spoons.

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