Discover Boating surveyed a network of boating experts to compile the eight top U.S. waterways for viewing fall foliage.…
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Discover Boating has once again compiled their ultimate boating playlist to keep the party rocking this summer. Here are the top ten boating songs.…
The U.S. Recreational Boating Industry Announces the Top Ten Boating States and Top Boating Destinations for On-the-Water Getaways.…
Discover Boating names best stadiums for the latest trend in on-water tailgating …
Detroit, MI National Marina Day Events …
Sandusky and Port Clinton, Ohio National Marina Day Events…
Central California National Marina Day Events …
Saint Joseph, MI National Marina Day Events…
Spokane, WA & Coeur d'Alene, ID National Marina Day Events…
Knoxville, TN National Marina Day Events…
Pensacola & Destin, FL National Marina Day Events…
Lake Havasu City, AZ National Marina Day Events…
Washington DC National Marina Day Events…
Hilton Head, SC & Savannah, GA National Marina Day Events…
Denver, Colorado National Marina Day Events…
San Diego, CA National Marina Day Events …
Connecticut National Marina Day Events…
Madison, WI National Marina Day Events…
Miami & Ft. Lauderdale National Marina Day Events…
Central Illinois National Marina Day Events…
Milwaukee, WI National Marina Day Events…
Key West National Marina Day Events …
Tampa & St. Pete's National Marina Day Events…
Hawaii National Marina Day Events …
Minnesota National Marina Day Events…
Austin, TX National Marina Day Events…
Iowa National Marina Day Events …
Vermont National Marina Day Events …
Las Vegas National Marina Day Events…
New Orleans, LA National Marina Day Events…
Naples, FL National Marina Day Events…
Seattle & Tacoma, WA National Marina Day Events…
On the receiving end of an invitation to head out on the water aboard a friend or relative's boat? Make the most of the opportunity and show off your nautical know-how with our tips on boating etiquet…
If you've enjoyed fishing all your life, you've got a great opportunity to say thanks and help preserve that way of life for the next generation.…
When shopping for the popular hybrid boat style, appropriately called a Fish & Ski, the key in finding the right boat for you is to decide which will be your primary activity.…
When searching for the perfect offshore fishing boat, you need to focus on models that give you plenty of room for fighting your catch, while providing easy access to all of your angling gear and safe…
The best sailors in the world have experienced capsizing & falling overboard. Read this article to learn scoop and single-handed sailing capsize recovery methods. …
Just as parts of the boat have specific names, a sailor needs terms to describe things relative to the boat. Directional terms help you locate something onboard, or describe where to look for somethin…
Learning how to sail? Read this helpful article on the four basic rules for navigating your way through some common sailing situations.…
Sailors should know where the wind is coming from and the wind angle relative to their boat for sail-trim purposes. Learn the five points of sail in this illustrated article.…
All northern fisherman look forward to spring ice out. It's a new season filled with phenomenal fishing on lakes, ponds, reservoirs and rivers.…
If you live and fish near the coast, you always have to be aware of (and plan around) the ebb and flow of tides. …
While you should always be aware of your surroundings when you're at the helm, you should be on full alert whenever you're entering an area with shallow or "skinny" water. …
Think Your Fishing Season Is Over Just Because It’s Winter? No way! Follow these great tips to catch your limit in colder weather. …
What’s the difference between a deck boat and a bowrider? While both are great options for dayboating, each has its own strengths.…
Whether you’re a newcomer to boating or you’re a veteran on the water, there’s something about boat show season that rekindles your excitement and has you counting down until launch day. …
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We've rounded up a list of boating and fishing charities that need your support.…
Whether you’re looking for a nautical-themed stocking stuffer or the latest, cutting-edge electronic gadget, the best place to start is with Discover Boating's all-new Gift Guid…
There are and wide variety of books, instructional DVDs, and other educational materials that truly enrich your boater's enjoyment of their favorite pastime.…
Ask anyone who has taken a boat and trailer across state lines about laws and you’ll receive one of two answers: “I was legal” or “What state laws?” …
There are going to be times when the trailer isn’t used for an extended period of time. Winter is one of those times as is being away. …
Your trailer exists so that it can be rolled into the water whenever and wherever you want. Keeping it waterproof allows you to keep doing the boating you love. …
Boaters seeking weather updates while at sea have a dizzying array of available sources. …
Satellite communication services are evolving rapidly. …
What makes a mega yacht noteworthy and memorable?…
Mariners who spend a lot of time on the water, along with electronics dealers and manufacturers share their tips.…
Mention safety and survival to mariners and they picture liferafts and flotation devices. But if electronics don’t come to mind, you could be missing the boat. …
For the ultimate boating vacation, nothing beats spending time on a houseboat. Here are ten popular houseboat destinations, along with listings of places where you can find a vacation rental.…
What to do when you are presented with a situation when things go haywire while boating. Some of the fixes discussed here are quite simple.…
We will discuss aspects of antennas such as types, purchasing, optimization, installation and operation.…
Today even little skiffs venture well out to sea to catch fish that they once could only dream about. …
We've put together a list of the top ten cookbooks for boaters. These recipes are sure to keep you afloat on your next boating trip!…
Stumped on what to buy for the nautical or fishing enthusiast in your life? Check out our holiday gift guide for some sea-worthy ideas that are sure to please.…
We've put together a listing of Christmas and Holiday lighted boat parades. …
Trailering spoke with two seasoned trailer veterans who teach seminars for first time boaters, and trailer backers.…
If you’re going to drop someone off to retrieve the tow vehicle and trailer, do so at the dock next to the boat ramp.…
Man, these things are big fun. But please keep the basic safety rules in mind. …
Read our Top Ten Tips for tow sports safety. Learn how to be safe when wakeboarding, knee boarding, and tubing, and have more fun!…
Before you hit the road, launch the boat, retrieve the boat, or head home, spend a few minutes with your trailer.…
Do these 10 things at the ramp and anyone behind you in line will say "Thank You"…
If you've got a question about a boat trailer, this is the place to be. …
Here are seven simple rules to keep you in the clear, and tempers tamped down, as you pass boats in a narrow channel. …
With a season about to begin, this is prime time for hurricane prep. …
There are fish stories, and then there are Fish Stories! …
News & updates from the editors of BoatU.S. Trailering.…
Nearly 2,700 miles of fishing line has been recycled in one year through the BoatU.S. Foundation's Reel In and Recycle Program.…
If there's one piece of safety equipment on your boat that rivals a life jacket in terms of being valuable in an emergency, it's your VHF marine radio.…
With a little practice and some preparation, you can master the fine art of towing and trailering your boat, spend less time behind the wheel and more time on the water!…
While every boater's "gotta-have-gear" and wish lists are different, there are a few items just about any boater will find useful, including GPS, Fish Finders and Waterproof Binoculars.…
Of course you’ve thought about living aboard your boat. Who hasn’t? Where do you feel most relaxed? Where do your kids forget to check their cell phone every five minutes? Where else do small, simple …
You know your home fishing hole like the back of your hand, but here are some secrets to finding the best fishing spots when you're on vacation.…
One of the easiest and most fun ways to enjoy everything the water has to offer is by taking a ride on a personal watercraft (PWC). …
Just like any piece of sporting equipment, there are lots of considerations to make when choosing a wakeboard.…
Learn how to create a cruise preparation list of shared responsibilities for family and friends on your next boat outing.…
There’s only one word you need to know to master marina etiquette: Consideration. If you’ll consider your neighbor’s point of view for a moment, you will usually make the right decision. …
Find out how you can take an active role in keeping our oceans, lakes, rivers and streams open to recreational fishing now and for generations to come.…
Boat Owners Association of the United States (BoatUS) offers benefits and services that support the boating lifestyle. …
There are certain customs and traditions that help us, as boaters, get along independently while respecting that right for others.…
Learn how you can get your kids involved in family boating fun with these helpful tips.…
Here's a list of the weekly winners and their prizes!…
Learn about the different types of boat radar, marine radar and broadband radar and how they are used in marine navigation.…
Talk about the best of both worlds! Enjoying a fireworks show from your boat is a wonderful way to combine two favorite activities.…
Boating is one of the most enjoyable ways you can spend time with your friends and family. All it takes is a little preparation, and your day trip will be remembered for all the right reasons.…
A personal watercraft (PWC) is a boat, and you’re the captain. You are legally in command of a powerboat, and you’re bound by the boating rules of the road as well as the laws and traditions of respon…
Read our environmental guide for personal watercraft users. Get green tips for operating your PWC. …
With a little on-land preparation and a mental note to always relax and let the boat do the work, you will be well on your way to launching off waves in no time. …
Are there are PWC-specific laws and rules in any state, such as a minimum age or mandatory education?…
Tips on how to fill your tank the environmentally friendly way.…
Boating is a fun activity that can be shared with the entire family. But you’ll need to perform a few check-ups to get ready for first trip of the season.…
Rainbow trout favor clean, clear, cold streams. .…
At Discover Boating, we spend a lot of time on our boats. So, we've put together a playlist of our favorite songs to listen when we're out on the water.…
Reduce pain at the pump! Read these helpful tips from Captain Chris and learn how you can save money on gas this boating season.…
For some, the deck of a boat is their home away from home, a passion and a joy they want to share with their closest companions— and who is closer than The Dog?…
Is your boat protected if it should be one hit by lighting? Find out the steps that you can take to protect your boat and crew if you get caught in a lighting storm.…
Outriggers are critical fishing gear for trolling that -- unlike rods, reels and lures -- are part of the boat. The easiest way to think of them is as a system consisting of three main parts: mounting…
Of the three damaging elements of hurricanes — wind, rain and storm surge — wind is the most underestimated. Windage increases by the square of the wind velocity. Five square yards of flat surface gen…
Marine generators don't have it easy. They labor away in tight, stifling corners of the engine room or lazarette and, all too often, are overlooked until something goes wrong. If it's been awhile sinc…
There are probably a hundred or more different navigation markers on American waterways, so learning to follow them can be a full-time endeavor. Most markers are set by the United States Coast Guard a…
Most of us put away water-sports equipment the way Clark Griswold stored lights in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation — in a heap, wherever it lands. But a hasty retreat from the boat will only spe…
The wind is blowing and you’re boating. Should you retreat for calmer waters? If it’s choppy but safe, no. Experts say fish are easiest to find along shores taking the full brunt of the breeze. Here’s…
Preparation is the key to navigating at night without getting lost or banging into an underwater obstacle. …
You did it. That super-duper $12 lure is snagged in your favorite fishing hole. Now what?…
You don't have to hang around a busy marina long to see boaters of all skill levels operating at their best — and worst. This is what I learned about both during my job as a dock boy. …
You can get a little insight into the psyche of a fisherman by the boat he owns and runs. Here are some boat names to ponder, with some poignant thoughts about each handle.…
If you're not an experienced photographer, and you want to take better photos from your boat, try these suggestions:…
Every angler group has its widely held fallacies, perhaps none more than bass anglers. That’s perhaps surprising, given the volume of research directed at black bass. Moreover, superbly skilled profes…
Light Air is the term used to describe when weather conditions barely offer enough wind to move a sailboat. Follow these tips and you'll be moving along in no time.…
When looking at the Michigan boat show calendar, you see there are a significant number of boat shows within the first quarter of the year and many might wonder, “Why hold a boat show in the dead of w…
US banks are making boat loans. Yes, there are fewer banks doing this today than one year ago. However, proportionately both boat sales and loans are down so the service capacity for boat loans remain…
Having trouble buying the perfect gift for the boaters on your list? Here are some ideas that will float their boat!…
‘Tis the season to make New Year’s resolutions. Most resolutions relate to changing bad habits or attempting to change negative aspects of our lives. It’s time to put a more positive spin onto this ti…
Read these 10 tips for choosing a wakeboard, because having the right piece of gear under you can make all the difference. Ask any experienced wakeboarder, and they’ll tell you one of the best ways to…
With the proliferation of affordable commercial assistance outfits such as Sea Tow and TowBoatU.S. plus the constantly improving reliability of marine engines, it’s not nearly as common as it once wa…
ARE YOUR FLARES STILL GOOD? If you find yourself in need of a tow or some other kind of assistance and can’t contact anyone by radio or phone, you’ll need to use some kind of visual distress signal — …
Unfortunately, not all of us live in a part of the world where we can wakeboard all year long. So what can we do while the weather is cold to become better wakeboarders? The following are some differe…
Need help finding that perfect fishing spot or landing the big one? A fishing guide might be the perfect solution. Follow these tips to find a fishing guide that's right for you.…
Recreation is an essential factor in the life of every human being. The anglers or the fishermen represent the largest single group of recreational seekers, and have a decided advantage over the other…
With freestyle snow skiing gaining popularity, you had to figure it was only a matter of time before the latest rage of big-air boosts, crossed-up skis and tweaked-out grabs transferred onto the water…
Follow these 5 simple reminders for your onside turns for safe and clean tricks. By Jon Travers…
When does your set officially start? Ball one, the pre-gates or your deepwater start? If improving your scores and avoiding injury sound appealing to you (of course they do), we need to rewind 20 minu…
Spins can be easy if you work on a few simple techniques. One of the most important things to focus on is your handle position. Whether you’re working on a heelside frontside 360 or you’re ready to st…
There is such an assortment of bait that it is difficult to recommend any particular color, size, or type as the best. There are more than a thousand good baits on the market. All will catch fish at s…
If fishing is your hobby, protective eyewear is a must. As your eyes are one of the most delicate organs in the body, you should protect them from the sun's damaging rays as well as from intrusive ele…
It’s not off-season for boaters—It’s planning season! What can boaters do to help them through the long wait for the next boating season? If your boat comes out of the water shortly after Labor Day, …
Whether you own a power yacht, wakeboard boat, fishing boat or sailboat, if you enjoy recreational boating then you share two common interests with all other boaters, clean water and access to it. The…
Autumn in Michigan offers warm days, quiet lakes, and unbelievably beautiful displays of leaves changing colors. But despite this, some Michigan boaters insist on taking their boats out of the water a…
By Chris Eller Pre-game boat setup is crucial to any three-event skier and driver. Whether you are hand-driving or using cruise control, making sure boat speeds and balance are set accurately can m…
Your palms are sweaty, your mouth is dry, and you have a knot in your stomach – you must be backing your boat into a slip. Despite the initial anguish of attempting this seemingly difficult task, ther…
The start of water ski season, a glorious time of year when anything is possible. A new PB (personal best) on the course, a new barefoot trick, the first trip off a jump — it’s all within reach. The t…
Upper Gulf Coast anglers are countering tightening restrictions by finding creative ways to deck their daily limits of a variety of legal fish. By John E. Phillips…
Here’s how to select the right batteries and maintain them in peak condition. by Tom Ireland …
Check out this comprehensive glossary for definitions of everything wakeboard and wakeskate. Get familiar before your hit the water or figure out the correct terms for all the cool tricks you are alre…
Wakesurfing has exploded onto the wake scene in a big way. What started in the 1950s with a couple of guys goofing around on longboards behind their boat has become one of the fasting growing waterspo…
Whether you trailer your boat to new inland lake destinations or have a boat large enough to cruise from port to port along the Great Lakes coast, the abundance of water in and around Michigan will ke…
Boating on the Great Lakes is an experience that once enjoyed, will never be forgotten. These lakes are designed by nature to charm and capture the spirit of boaters. As residents of Michigan, we are …
Looking for a great place to throw your next party or social gathering? Look no further than your boat. A boat can serve as a fantastic setting for your next big bash, business entertainment party, or…
Small, easily-misplaced items like hook removers, fishing and/or split-ring pliers, and hook sharpeners can be kept organized and quickly accessed if you stow them on the underside of a hatch. The onl…
The truth is not all dogs can swim. And not all those that can swim are great swimmers. Additionally, water or weather conditions can cause problems even for a pet that is typically a strong swimmer.…
Embark on a quest for deep-ocean treasure! Odyssey’s SHIPWRECK! Pirates & Treasure opens at the Detroit Science Center March 24, 2008 and runs through September 1, 2008. This fascinating exhibition wi…
Our wakeboarding tips section is no exception to this important boating safety rule. Be sure to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times when you are in the water. A basic boating safety ti…
Is wakeboarding your first love? Read through our helpful boat buyer guide for information on which types of boats are best for wakeboarding. With direct links to manufacturers and more, we can help y…
One of the most popular boating activities, freshwater fishing can be enjoyed by experienced boaters and beginners alike. Whether you’re interested in extreme sports fishing or a laid-back jaunt aroun…
While our glossary page provides a comprehensive list of boating terms, we’ve also compiled this short list of 10 beginner sailing terms that everyone should know.…
Big or small, basic or souped up, there is one thing every boat needs. Maintenance. Fortunately, routine maintenance and even small repairs aren’t that tough. And in the long run, a little elbow greas…
Boats today are a lot faster than they used to be—thanks to advances in hull design. The material and processes used to build boats has also improved, resulting in vessels that are both lighter and st…
Using the right kind of fishing boat equipped with the right fishing gear can greatly expand your angling opportunities. …
With nearly 45 million Americans listing fishing as their preferred leisure activity, recreational anglers outnumber participants in most other outdoor sports. Successful anglers mix patience, skill, …
Trout are one of the most sought after angling species and will take a variety of natural and artificial baits. They favor cold, clear moving water—rivers and streams—but some species inhabit the dept…
For sport anglers, largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are two of the most prized catches. Bass spend most of their time in lakes and rivers with plentiful fresh water. They tend to congregate in moss…
Many anglers simply love catfish. There are 37 catfish families, with species found in both freshwater and saltwater. Perhaps their most recognized traits are their catlike whiskers, or barbells, and …
Although carp have been considered a nuisance by North American anglers, they are highly prized as sportfish in Europe, and can be excellent fighters. A growing number of anglers in the US are becomin…
White perch are an important recreational species and are considered a delectable game fish.…
Fish for crappie, also known as the calico bass, by using a float since they do not always stay near the bottom.…
American eels occur profusely in the Mississippi’s tributaries, including the Minnesota, Saint Lawrence Seaway, Saint Croix rivers, and sometimes in Lake Superior.…
Except for color, freshwater drum resembles its marine relative the red drum. The fish is deep-bodied and equipped with a long dorsal fin divided into two sections. The dorsal fin usually has 10 spine…
The northern pike is an elongated fish. Its dorsal region is bluish-green to gray in color, shading to white or yellow on the belly. …
In general, identifying the hybrid tiger muskie from the muskellunge is fairly easy, though it can be more difficult with some individuals. The tiger muskie is named for the prominent light-colored, b…
Chain pickerel are aggressive fighters once hooked, thus making them an exciting catch. They are active through the winter, under the ice, so they can be caught by ice anglers. …
The large reflective surface of its eyes gives the walleye a sight advantage over other fish. …
Sails work by “catching the wind” only when the boat is sailing directly downwind. The rest of the time a sail is essentially an airplane wing standing on end, and works the same way: When properly tr…
If your destination lies upwind, how do you sail there? Unless the wind is blowing from directly astern (over the back of the boat), the sails propel the boat forward because of “lift” created by wind…
If you sail a dinghy, high-performance centerboarder, boardsailer or other unballasted boat, you will capsize sooner or later, probably sooner. It’s just a characteristic of these boats, and folks who…
Sailboats steer by means of the rudder, a vertical, blade-like appendage mounted either on the transom (the flat surface of the stern) or under the boat. In both cases the rudder works by deflecting w…
Read the how-to books and the boating magazines and you might think sailing is hard, but that’s not the case. Sailing is really very simple; a skilled instructor can teach you the basics in an afterno…
When you start sailing, you’ll navigate by looking where you want to go, and going there. Some people spend their whole sailing careers that way. But it’s a good idea to learn at least basic navigatio…
They say you always remember your first love. You always remember your first sail, too. What will yours be like? Here’s what happens during a typical sail. Chances are, the boat will be on a mooring, …
The keel is basically a flat blade sticking down into the water from a sailboat’s bottom. It has two functions: it prevents the boat from being blown sideways by the wind, and it holds the ballast tha…
New to sailing? Let us help you master the basics with these handy sailing tips and instructions for beginners. Both novice and experienced boaters alike can benefit from a quick review of these begin…
Whether you prefer calm coastal waterways or deep sea fishing adventures, saltwater fishing boats present a wide variety of options for family boating, sport fishing and more.…
Trying to find a fishing boat that’s ideal for catching big game fish? Sport fishing boats are the high-performance answer to your needs. Designed to make fishing as convenient as possible, these fish…
What are important things to look for in a fly fishing boat? What are the best boats for fly fishing? …
Follow these easy steps and help reduce fuel usage this summer.…
Considering taking up sailing? Well, there are many reasons why you should learn how to sail. Sailing is an invigorating sport that offers many rewards, not the least of which is that it’s simply so m…
Mastering sailing basics means being familiar with essential right-of-way sailing rules. One thing to remember is that there are different right-of-way sailing instructions for sailboats as opposed to…
There are always plenty of things to keep in mind when angling for the perfect catch, but these basic freshwater fishing tips can help provide a general overview of what you need to know: …
Water tubing always conjures up images of big splashes and big fun. Here are our favorite reasons why we love boat tubing:…
The next time you or your family decide to go out boat tubing, keep these boating safety and water sports tubing tips in mind to make sure your experience is safe and enjoyable: …
Learning the basics of sailing is easy, but becoming truly expert can take years. There’s always something more to learn, and once you catch the sailing bug you’ll want to learn it all. …
Follow these easy top 10 tips for clean and green boating.…
Buying boats isn't as painful as you might think! In fact, monthly payments for many entry-level boats can be less than $200.…
Getting started in competitive water sports is easier than you think. A common misconception is that in order to compete in any of USA Water Ski's 800-plus competitions, you need to be an expert. Noth…
Follow these easy steps and you will become a wakeboarder in no time...…
Knee Boarding made easy! Read some of the basic information to get started in knee boarding...…
So you are going to take some kids fishing! You want our future fishermen to have fun, so read these helpful tips on fishing with children.…
Plan ahead… There are a lot of choices. Allow enough time to explore many different types of boats, and several different brands within each category… This is a big investment that will change your li…
Tips and helpful steps to take before you buy a boat of your dreams.…
Tap into an onboard water source by installing a freshwater tank. Most larger boats have some sort of built-in tank specifically for holding fresh water, which can be nice for drinking, showering, coo…
You want to do everything you can to protect your boat. One place that’s susceptible to damage is the bottom of the hull. Concrete boat ramps, rocky shorelines and sandy beaches can scratch and ding t…
A lot of boats these days come with a stereo installed, but many still don’t. That doesn’t mean that if your boat is lacking a factory-installed stereo system, you can’t enjoy your favorite tunes on t…
The increased use of cell phones has decreased use of VHF radios by boaters who don’t venture too far offshore. But for those who like to do some long-range cruising, a VHF radio is a necessity. …
Most boat owners would agree there’s nothing like anchoring out in a quiet cove or enjoying a raft-up with friends on a summer afternoon. A swim platform can certainly update the look of your boat, wh…
This nation has a big problem. I call it The Big O. No, not obesity. Overscheduling. Simon and Garfunkel diagnosed this ailment years ago with their Feeling Groovy song. Slow down, you mov…
Summer’s here and many parents are contemplating whether to send the future of our country to manners school for three months or allow them to join the rest of the family on vacation. Recalling so…
The reality is most new houseboats manufactured today are luxurious, and not just for boats, but houses as well. Some even rival neighborhood estates. …
Although purchasing a boat, new or used, will never be a matter to take lightly or to rush through, the popularity of the Internet has made researching the buying process easier than ever, putting inf…
All hands on deck. Now, okay, pipe down. I'm starting with a clean slate. I want to be completely above board about this. I have no intention of barging in only to bamboozle you with mere scuttlebutt…
DO NOT OPERATE YOUR BOAT WITHOUT DOING THE FOLLOWING: Make sure you know where exhaust outlets are located on your vessel. Educate all passengers about the syptoms of CO poisoning and where CO may …
A recent survey conducted by Impulse Research Corp. found that boaters are healthier and happier than their non-boating counterparts.…
Whether you are looking to outfit a recently purchased boat or are preparing your existing boat for an extended cruise, our Discount Outfitting Service can help.…
Buying a boat can be confusing and stressful. Follow these easy tips to make it a smooth purchase.…
Maintenance tips on some of the most important items on your boat.…
Proper winterization will prevent costly damage that can result from freezing, dormancy, corrosion and moisture, and will allow for a smooth launch come springtime.…
"First You Have to Row a Little Boat" unfolds lessons learned on a boat from the point of view of someone who discovered boating.…
Anchoring is done for two principal reasons: to stop for fishing, swimming, lunch, or an overnight stay or to keep you from running aground in bad weather.…
Numbers must be painted or permanently attached to each side of the forward half of the vessel.…
Neatness counts, especially because it’s also safer. Don’t throw lines in heaps about the boat. They’ll kink, tangle or jam when you need them and you and your passengers are likely to trip over them.…
Garbage in the water looks bad, and can cause problems for both wildlife that mistake it for food and eat it, and for boaters.…
There are a number of Pollution Regulations while boating and vessels must display a placard.…
A quick overview of the issues, laws and regulations to the water closet on-board.…
Winterizing a boat and motor is the most important maintenance a boat owner can perform to help ensure safe boating next spring. …
This 10 Minute Quality Walkaround is designed to help you learn enough about any boat - power or sail - to determine the basic quality of its construction.…
Choosing the right boat is easy when you use a boat buying guide from DiscoverBoating.com. Learn the ins and outs of recreational boating today.…
Learn to keep some trouble, (not all) away.…
The ability to trailer your boat opens up a world of boating adventures. Trailer boating is convenient- and can be transported just about anywhere.…
We’ve talked to several San Diego experts to give you the details on boat ownership.…
Getting a great deal on a boat doesn't have to be complicated.…
Even if you think you know everything about boats, you still need a marine survey. A survey assesses both the structural condition and value of a used boat, and it's the seagoing equivalent of a termi…
Whether you\’re a novice or experienced watercraft owner, boating insurance works much like auto and homeowners insurance…
Pricing, prepping and paperwork essential to the successful sale of your boat.…
It is probably the secret dream of all boat owners - finding a way to deduct the cost of their boats every April when the IRS comes calling for the annual donation.…
There are three generally accepted price guides in the U.S.: the BUC Used Price Guide, the NADA Marine Appraisal Guide, and the ABOS Marine Blue Book…
With a little preparation and some elbow grease, you can improve your odds of selling quickly and at the best possible price.…
Learn about the different capacity plates and what is required by law.…
a regulation that limited the power and weight of outboard engines on all boats up to 20ft…
Life jackets are essential pieces of equipment for the boater, even required by law. But Is it a help or a hindrance in a "dog overboard"…
If you ever wondered what would happen should something go terribly wrong out on the water, having a float plan could help.…
Dogs are trained to perform life-saving tasks, like towing a person to shore, taking a life jacket out to a person, and towing a boat.…
Associations and Committee's designed to help Women in boating.…
Some of us go boating to get away from TV. Others like to see a broadcast program at the end of a fine day on the water. …
The best way to power up your boat is determined by your engine.…
Buying the right storage battery can be confusing. A number of different types are offered, at widely varying prices.…
The most important thing to know is if you are certain that your trailer is right for your boat. …
Learn what to do if you become Capt. Pay attention to the basics.…
Even if you don’t own a boat, if you ever go out in one as a passenger, you should know the basics of boating.…
Hypothermia is a condition that exists when the body’s temperature drops below ninety-five degrees. Learn how to avoid it!…
Tips that you should adhere to to make dockside boating safer and more pleasant for you and your dockside neighbors.…
Boating safety is nothing you can ever take for granted.…
An automobile engine may run almost twice as long (3,000 hours) as your marine gasoline engine. Marine engines normally work harder and under worse conditions. …
To complete the electrical circuit, the zincs must be connected to the items they are intended to protect.…
It is important to frequently test your bilge pumps by switching from the automatic to manual position on the bilge pump switch.…
Water being absorbed through the gelcoat and fiberglass laminates in the hull causes blisters.…
The moment you hook a line to a derelict boat, you become responsible for it and all aboard it.…
Collisions between boats are one of the most dangerous and frequently occurring mishaps on our nations waters.…
One of the most dangerous locations that a small boat can be located is in the jaws of an ocean inlet.…
Some of the most challenging conditions you may encounter as a skipper are the adverse conditions of "Heavy Weather."…
Every through-hull fitting in your boat is a potential hole that could sink you in a matter of minutes.…
Despite all efforts to stay off shoals, beaches, or rocks, groundings do happen. It is important that every boater be prepared for such an event.…
With a battery charger maintaining a constant voltage, those intermittent loads such as flushing a toilet will run down the battery capacity.…
Most newer marine engines use an enclosed cooling system. There is a small tank on the top of the engine that combines of fresh water and coolant.…
Hull Identification Numbers (HIN)are required. But, what are they and what do they mean?…
You encounter buoys in a specific order. What do they mean and what should you do?…
The Coast Guard serves as Search and Rescue (SAR) coordinator for all maritime emergencies.…
International code flags are used to signal between two ships or between ship and shore.…
With heavy thunderstorms you will often find lightning. Lightning on the water can bring life-threatening circumstances.…
If you have kept a proper lookout, developed a "weather eye" and monitored the weather on your VHF radio, you should have time to get prepared. …
Dealing with draw bridges takes some knowledge of how the system works and knowing what you are looking for, especially at night.…
Here you can find a list of the many things to consider before, during and after a hurricane.…
Clouds are a tool you can use to predict or forecast weather. The type of cloud and direction of movement can warn you of weather changes that are imminent. …
Seasickness is caused when the minute inner ear organs that enable a human to balance are disturbed by the motion of the boat swaying and pitching. …
GPS is a satellite-based navigation system developed by the U.S. Department of Defense to provide a accurate method of navigation.…
Understanding the terminology of electricity is the first step to starting to understand electrical theory.…
Renaming a boat is, of course, not something to be done lightly. Sailors have sworn the unluckiest ships of all are those who have changed their names.…
Exposure to the sun means exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation which comes in different wavelengths (medium and long). Some cause more damage to our skin than others.…
The best way to get good at docking is practice, practice, practice. With repetition, you start to get a feel for wind and current.…
With a minimum amount of information, the Coast Guard begins its search. The Coast Guard begins contacting all local mariners, and visually checking boat ramps. …
If you’re one of the legions of trailer sailors, you know the advantages of having your boat in your driveway or storage yard instead of in a slip or on a mooring. Storms are not likely to be a concer…
Signals, used or exhibited together or separately, indicate distress and need of assistance.…
Learning to dock is done on the water, in our boats. Book learning and good teaching are important to however, we must accept the responsibility ourselves.…
Drowning occurs rapidly and soundlessly, averaging 20 seconds in small children and up to a minute in adults. Simply observing may cancel a needless tragedy.…
Boat Docking is a wonderful book. Its descriptive subtitle, “Close Quarters Maneuvering for Small Craft”, says it all. Boaters of all types have taken to this book.…
Stern to docking has many advantages over docking with the bow in towards land. In many boats, it’s just easier to load gear and get on and off from the cockpit.…
Docking in an “off-the-dock” wind, when done well, brings praise even from experienced marina dock hands.…
Prior planning and practice will not only keep you and your passengers safe and protect your boat, it will also help you avoid serious personal humiliation.…
Boat Docking-"Take it as slow as possible." This is because the wind demands that the boat have very strong "steerability". Things can change very quickly. …
Each year hundreds of people are involved in boating accidents. U.S. Coast Guard reports show that only 5 to 10 percent of non-fatal boating accidents are reported.…
When you purchase an anchor, make sure you get the right type for the bottom conditions where you go boating. Buy at least 1 good, heavy anchor for each type of bottom.…
Most marine batteries onboard boats today are of the lead-acid type. This type of battery has been used for many decades beacuse of the low cost to purchase and maintain.…
Digital multimeter gives a more accurate digital readout over the less expensive analog models that have a needle that moves over a set of printed numbers on the dial.…
About 13,000 recreational vessels transit the ICW each year, according to the most recent estimates available. It’s been called "the boaters’ Route 66".…
Alcohol can decrease a person’s ability to handle a boat in many ways. As a depressant, alcohol goes straight to the nerves, blood stream, and the brain. …
An EPIRB is a small battery-powered transmitting device that is carried on board. As the name implies, it is used only in case of emergency and as a last resort.…
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