Solo boating can be safe and rewarding—file a float plan, practice docking, and stay prepared to enjoy boating alone with confidence.

Skiffs are some of the most popular boats around, and once you get to know how pleasant life can be in a skiff, it’s no wonder why. Would a skiff boat be the best boat of choice for your needs? Read on to learn more about these simple, small boats.

Before catching fish, anglers must locate them. Unless you live in the middle of the great southwestern deserts there should be a body of fishable water within an hour of your home. You can find fish nearly anywhere there is a body of water large enough to provide food, oxygen and cover. If you have a boat, your choice of angling locations gets even larger.

Learn how to get up on your first try with these beginner wakeboarding tips. Find out what equipment you need to ride, consult our wakeboard sizing chart, discover what type of wake boat is right for you, and compare the differences between wakeboarding and wakesurfing.

Fishing boat prices range from entry-level to luxury. Compare affordable fishing boat types and find a good starter fishing boat for your budget.

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. Follow these steps to appease the god of the seas if you absolutely, positively must change the name of a boat.

Bait-Casting Reels — This reel stores line on a bearing-supported revolving spool geared so a single rotation of the reel handle results in multiple spool revolutions. The spool’s spindle is perpendicular to the rod and casting direction. Line comes off the reel as the spool spins. The reel is designed to handle a wide variety of fishing lines and its adjustable drag system has the power to control a surging big fish. Spool friction adjustments are required to keep line from tangling in a spool “backlash.” Additional adjustments include opposing magnets to slow the spool rotation to prevent backlash. These reels offer the best casting accuracy and fish fighting control, but require more skill and practice to use