Deicers for Waterfowl Hunters

January 9th, 2012 | Posted by LHammer in Product Reviews | Tips & Resources - (Comments Off)

Come on in... the water's fine!

You’re all geared up for duck and goose hunting season. You’ve got your shotgun, shells, decoys, hunting blind, game bag, waders, cooler full of provisions, deicer… deicer? Yep. If you want to extend your waterfowl hunting season, a deicer is a great piece of equipment for doing so.

As avid waterfowl hunters know, a successful hunting season greatly depends on the weather. If fall weather stays warm, the birds will take their time heading south. But if the temperatures cool quickly, ice can form over lakes and ponds, which can bring things to a halt.

Waterfowl need water for nesting purposes, feeding, and a place to rest that is secure from predators during their long fall and early winter migrations. If the birds see an area iced over, they will keep on flying until they find open water. Adios! Season over!

But many waterfowl hunters have found that by using a deicer, they can provide open water for the ducks and geese and extend the season. Deicers circulate the water and draw warmer water up from the bottom of the lake or pond, allowing a hole to open up in the ice. Hunters have found that running a deicer (usually with a deep cycle battery or generator) a few hours before daybreak allows them to  open up an area of their own selection, like… in front of a hunting blind! They then put out decoys to attract the flesh and blood version, hop in the blind, and wait until the birds get within range.

To better run a deicer in the shallower water of a pond or small lake, Savvyboater.com offers a shallow water stand for Power House Ice Eaters. This handy stand works in water depths of 18 to 48 inches, fits three different models of Ice Eaters, and allows for easy adjustment of both angle and height. And while the size of the area that opens up depends on factors like water depth, length of operation, temperature, amount of existing ice, positioning, and bottom contour, hunters are still able to get an area of open water to hunt over.

So if winter should decide to put in an early appearance, don’t let that put an end to you waterfowl season. With a deicer and stand from Savvyboater.com you can keep the water open and the hunt going. Getting your limit, well that’s up to you.

 

 

 

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Deicing Marinas: Old Man Winter is ready, are you?

January 5th, 2012 | Posted by LHammer in Docks and Dock Care | Specials | Tips & Resources - (Comments Off)

Deicers can prevent a winter scene like this

Old Man Winter is ready. Ready to do his worst.

With the inevitable advent of harsh, freezing winter conditions, boat owners in frigid climate zones will be scrambling to prevent ice from forming around boats, docks, piers and marinas. And many of them will be using dock deicers to get the job done. Deicers are perfect for preventing costly ice damage due to jacking/lifting, ice expansion, and winter-kill conditions.

With a deicer, a heavy-duty submersible motor drives a rugged propeller, which circulates and draws warmer water from the depths of a lake or pond towards the surface, keeping large areas of water open, even in the coldest winter temperatures. So it’s no surprise that more and more marinas are using multiple deicers to keep their many docks and slips ice-free and in one piece.

But they’re not just for winter! Marinas have also discovered that deicers can improve water quality in the summer months, too. They are effective at cleaning up the water, putting debris in areas that it can easily be picked up, and assisting in weed and algae control.

Windmill Marina, a 170 slip marina on the St. Croix River in Afton, Minnesota has been using deicers for 15 years.

“We use 14 Kasco Circulator units in the summer months for water quality purposes,” says Marina General Manager Joe Riley. “We use more in the winter for deicing purposes.”

James Creek Marina  in Washington, D.C.  is owned by The National Park Service. They use Kasco F3400/D, 3/4hp deicers to prevent ice damage in the winter and for improved water quality during the summer. Fire Island Pines in New York has over 30 deicers, which has saved them thousands of dollars in dock repair bills as well as allowing them to  keep their harbor usable longer in the winter.

Yep, it takes a lot of deicers to keep a Marina up and running. Fortunately, Savvyboater.com is offering volume discounts on the purchase of four or more Kasco Marine Dock Deicers. Plus FREE shipping!

So, whether you’re the manager of a mega-marina or the owner of multiple docks or boathouses, with multiple deicers you can keep your investment ice-free in the winter and debris-free in the summer.

Bring it on Old Man Winter!

 

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Propeller Damage | Replacing a Damaged Boat Propeller

December 14th, 2011 | Posted by JustinW in Tips & Resources - (Comments Off)

damage on an aluminum propellerThe days are shorter, the weather is colder, for many people around the country boating season is over.  Many boaters have already winterized and their boats and moved them into storage for the winter months.  Whether it’s in an indoor climate controlled facility or in your backyard with an old boat cover, hopefully you were able to inspect your boat propeller for damage.  While many nicks and chips to your propeller can be repaired, sometimes the damage is too extensive to bend, grind, and shape a blade or hub back in place.

Although you do everything to protect your boat, the inevitable will happen and you will eventually strike something with your propeller.  The latest propeller designs incorporate technology to protect your boat’s engine from damage.  Many propeller hubs are now built with shock absorbing rubber to lessen the sudden change in engine RPMs when a propeller strikes an object.  Underwater debris can come from many sources; driftwood, rocks, stumps, and other solid obstacles.  Also, continued use of a damaged prop can cause accelerated wear to the internal components of an engine and drive shaft.  Propeller damage will cause vibration and slowly deteriorate the integrity of the moving parts in a motor.  Damaged boat propellers also reduce fuel efficiency and decrease performance.  Further more, an uneven leading edge can cause further damage by causing cavitation erosion.

A propeller should be periodically inspected for damage.  Chips in the protective paint in aluminum props or dings in a stainless steel prop can warrant repair or replacement.  If you notice any vibration during acceleration, you should take it in to a marine shop and have them inspect the prop alignment (as imbalance may be unnoticeable by the naked eye).

It’s a good idea to inspect your prop more frequently if you’re boating in a sand or rocky area.  Be aware of the water around you and avoid shallow depths.  Take extra precautions when loading and unloading at the dock.  Power loading can kick up rocks that can damage a prop as well as damaging the loading ramp and dock.  If your propeller damage is non-repairable, it’s time to buy a new boat propeller.  With a new propeller, you should see immediate result; eliminate vibration, improved efficiency, and greater motor longevity.  For more resources on propellers and other boating topics, visit our boating resources guide at SavvyBoater.com

April Fisher liked this post

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Cyber Monday Mania!

November 24th, 2011 | Posted by LHammer in Specials | Tips & Resources - (Comments Off)

When Black Friday comes

I’m gonna dig myself a hole

Gonna lay down in it till

I satisfy my soul

When Black Friday falls you know it’s got to be

Don’t let it fall on me

Steely Dan – “Black Friday”

 

Wow, talk about prophetic. Who knew back in 1975 that the constant AM radio airplay of those words might actually relate (though not intentionally at the time) to the biggest shopping day of the year – the Friday after Thanksgiving – Black Friday!

More and more people every year are foregoing the inconvenience of crowds, lines, traffic, bizarre hours and progressively surly sales clerks to do their Holiday shopping online on Cyber Monday – the Monday after Black Friday. I mean, do you really want to head out at midnight or get up at 4 AM after a full day of gluttony and sloth? No, thank you!

But besides the hassle of Black Friday, the fact is that some of the best deals around are offered on Cyber Monday. It’s been said that in terms of sales, Cyber Monday is usually the highest spending day of the year. Which makes it the new King of Shopping Days! Long live the King!

Once again this year, we’re in on the fun, too. In addition to great prices on some of our most popular items, like Boat Covers and Polyform Fenders and Buoys. Plus we’re offering FREE shipping on many items (Deicers, Top Snappers and Nautical Gifts over $200).  And you know how that pesky old shipping can add up. Also, if you like us on Facebook, you’ll find a special bonus coupon.

If you need a few ideas to get your Cyber Monday started, check out our blog post, Boater’s Booty: Holiday Nautical Gifts for some helpful holiday hints on what to get the boater, sailor or fisherman on your list.

So take it easy after that big Thanksgiving celebration. No need to get all stressed out. Sleep in and relax for a change. Just be sure to check out our great Cyber Monday Deals starting now through the end of the month.

 

 

 

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Stern Drive vs. Outboard | Right Motor for Your Next Boat

November 23rd, 2011 | Posted by JustinW in Tips & Resources - (4 Comments)

outboard boatThere are so many factors to consider when shopping for a new boat.  It can be a daunting task to find the perfect boat for your needs. One of the main differences between boats is the engine system, stern drive vs. outboard.  There are a number of advantages and disadvantages to stern drive or outboard boats.  While the kind of boat you buy will depend on a number of factors like affordability, size/length, and intended use, this article will describe the major differences between the two propulsion systems.

Stern drive boats are basically automotive motors housed inside a boat with a propeller system outside the boat.  Because of this setup, stern drives are sometimes referred to as inboard/outboard (I/O) motors.  The major stern drive manufacturers use GM engine blocks with their own fuel systems, gearbox, and intake/exhaust systems designed for marine use.  This gives you the reliability of an automotive engine adapted for marine use.

Outboard motors are self contained propulsion systems that mount to the stern of a boat.  An outboard motor contains a specially designed engine, mounting bracket, and lower drive system.  Technology in outboard motors has advanced quite a bit form carbonated 2-storke motors to powerful, smooth 4-stroke engines.  Outboard motors easily mount to standardized transoms at the stern of many boats.  Outboards come in various horsepower ratings and shaft lengths to accommodate different boat specifications.

Stern Drive vs. Outboard Comparison

Stern Drive Outboard
Heavier but better weight distribution Lighter but less balanced
Higher HP options but less comparable power Better power for same HP, especially 2-stroke
4-Stroke 2-Stroke or 4-Stroke
Separate engine compartment, quieter operation Mounted behind the boat, more deck area
Lower cost, older technology Cost more, newer technology
Engine is in a fixed position Removable engine

You should consider all these factors when looking for a new stern drive or outboard boat.  When you find a new boat, don’t forget to equip your boat with a new prop, fenders, boat cover, and other boating accessories at SavvyBoater.com

Elgin Elledge liked this post

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Discover World-Class Boating and Fishing in Idaho

November 22nd, 2011 | Posted by Linda in Boating Locations | Fishing | General Interest Boating - (Comments Off)

Everyone has that one favorite place where they love to go, and my little slice of heaven on earth is Coeur d’Alene Idaho.  We have been going to Coeur d’Alene every summer for about 10 years now, and never get tired of returning.  In my opinion, Lake Coeur d’Alene is the most beautiful lake in the world, and our favorite place to go boating.

The lake is 30 miles long with 135 miles of shoreline.  There are numerous marinas located all around the lake with access to fuel as well as a variety of restaurants.  Our week on the lake includes towing water skiers and inner tubes, swimming in crystal clear blue water, looking for the many beautifully restored wooden boats that call this lake home, viewing gorgeous estates along the shore, and seeing just how fast our boat can go.

If you are looking for a great place to go fishing in Idaho, the fishing opportunities on the lake as well as the four rivers feeding the lake include Black Crappie, Chinook Salmon, Cutthroat Trout, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, Sockeye Salmon and Yellow Perch.

For an RV park on the water, we stay at Blackwell Island RV Park.  The park has plenty of spaces to accommodate big rigs, and is conveniently located just a few miles off the freeway and only a few minutes from downtown Coeur d’Alene.  The best part for us is that the RV park has its own boat slips, so we only need to launch the boat once, and its moored only a few steps from our front door.

For deluxe hotel accommodations, at the heart of downtown is The Coeur d’Alene Resort, home of the world’s longest floating boardwalk that rims the hotel’s 372 slip marina.

A walk through the town will reward you with plenty of shops, galleries, and restaurants.   One of our favorite watering holes is the Coeur d’Alene Brewing Company, and the Coeur d’Alene Olive Oil Company is a fun stop to sample and buy olive oils made from locally grown groves. If you enjoy golfing, the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course is a must do.  Its famous floating green and million-dollar views made it Golf Digest’s selection for America’s most beautiful resort golf course.

For those of you interested in biking and hiking, you will not be disappointed either.  Tubbs Hill is an easy 2-mile loop walk that starts just off the marina parking lot, and features non-stop viewpoints of the lake and marinas.  The North Idaho Centennial Trail is a 23 mile paved trail for both cyclists and strollers.  The trail follows the Spokane River, and can be accessed from multiple locations, including downtown Coeur d’Alene.   Trail amenities include restrooms, doggy bags, water fountains, benches, picnic tables and artwork.

If you are interested in learning more about boating and fishing in Idaho, as well as other things to do and places to stay in and around Coeur d’Alene, visit their Visitor’s Bureau website.   I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Boater’s Booty: Holiday Nautical Gifts

November 21st, 2011 | Posted by LHammer in Fishing | General Interest Boating | Product Reviews | Tips & Resources - (Comments Off)

Well, once again, the Holiday season is moving in on us like a Class IV hurricane.  And, like a lot of folks, you’ve probably been racking your brain on what gifts to give this year. Socks? Ties? A, gulp, sweater? C’mon you can do better than that! Especially if you’ve got a boater or sailor on your list.

While a new boat cover or seats might be appreciated, there are some really cool nautical gifts out there that will brighten up any boater’s holiday. Here are a few ideas.

Chart Weights  from Weems & Plath make a good looking addition to any boater’s cabin or den. Made from solid forged brass, they won’t tarnish or show fingerprints. And there’s a great selection. Choose from Quartz Clock, Compass, Magnifier, or Thermometer chart weights, or chart weight and pen sets. Most of these gifts run in the $50 neighborhood.

Nautical Clocks are another timeless gift choice. Weems & Plath has a varied selection of sharp looking Quartz, Bell, Time & Tide, Radio Control and Porthole style clocks in your choice of corrosion resistant aluminum, forged brass and mahogany. Prices range from around $75 to over $500 for the deeper pocket set. If time’s already on their side, there’s also a great selection of precision weather gauges in attractive housings ($100-$350).

For the boat itself, the classic style and cast brass construction of a Weems & Plath Ship Bell makes for a good looking and functional gift. Sizes range from 4″ to 12″, with the 8 1/2″ a nd 12″ bell meeting U.S. Coast Guard requirements for larger commercial vessels. Prices range from around $40 to $550, depending on size. And Weems & Plath Yacht Lamps look great both on the boat or around the house. They come in an assortment of classic styles and sizes, with prices ranging from $50 to $290.

Got a fisherman on your list? They’d probably love a new Fishing Vest. Evolution and First Watch both make several good quality vests for fisherman and sportsmen that are comfortable, functional and provide safety (USCG approved Type III). Prices range from $33 to $80. With prices like that, you’ll be able to throw in a StickyBoard Fish Fillet Board (8.95!). Suction cups keep the fillet board securely anchored to the counter or transom while you’re cutting bait or filleting fish out on the water.  Great for the boat or at home!

Don’t forget the stocking stuffers! The DeckMate 6-in-1 Stainless Deck Key Tool has six essential tools in one package; two universal deck keys, a boat shackle key, flat head screwdriver, ¼” hex driver, zipper/toggle puller and bottle opener (16.95). And for the younger angler, the Backyard Bass Standard Starter Set (9.95), colorful plastic casting targets and plugs, make learning to cast fun and easy!

So whether it’s for a boat owner or just a recreational sailor or fisherman, there’s a nautical gift on this list sure to make this holiday a memorable one.

 

 

 

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DryWave Air Dryer

November 18th, 2011 | Posted by JustinM in General Interest Boating - (Comments Off)

During the fall, winter, and spring months, when humidity is high and the temperatures are low, the DryWave Air Dryer is truly a necessity. Mold and mildew thrive whenever water or moisture is present, particularly in spaces with little or no airflow. We cannot ever completely rid the air of mold or the mold spores that populate it, but with the DryWave we can control their growth to prevent them from forming and thriving.

The DryWave works by gently warming the air in an enclosed area, raising the temperature above the dew point. The dew point is the temperature at which condensation will occur on surrounding surfaces, which often leads to the build-up of mold and mildew. In the Pacific Northwest, where humidity is high in the fall and winter, keeping the internal temperature above the dew point is critical in preventing condensation.

The DryWave Air Dryer is particularly effective in enclosed areas which are exposed to cool temperatures and are not well ventilated.  Boats, RV’s, vehicles in storage and gun safes are good examples. The DryWave simply needs access to 120 volt power, and a clear area on the floor on which to place it.  When placing the DryWave in a boat or an RV, it is important to have clear airflow around the unit and some ventilation to the area.  The Drywave is designed to run 24 hours per day and draws no more power than a standard light bulb.

The DryWave Air Dryer is available in two sizes.  The standard DryWave Standard Electric Boat Air Dryer is designed for use in spaces up to 1,000 cubic feet, while the more compact DryWave 100 Compact Electric Air Dryer is designed for spaces up to 100 cubic feet. For larger areas multiple air dryers can be used.  There are no moving parts in either DryWave, and the larger DryWave comes equipped with a thermal shut-off switch in case the unit overheats for any reason.  Both DryWave housings are manufactured from non-flammable materials.

In areas like Florida and the Gulf coast, the DryWave unit should be monitored more frequently, as high humidity and temperatures will lessen the effectiveness of the DryWave in the warm Spring and Summer months.

To learn more about air dryers, visit SavvyBoater.com.

Protect your Correct Craft’s Finish with a Boat Cover

November 15th, 2011 | Posted by denise in Tips & Resources - (Comments Off)

A boat cover is an effective yet inexpensive defense against elements like sun, rain, hail, sand, salt, and grime – all of which can cause damage your boat’s finish. And if you own a Correct Craft,  chances are you have a sharp finish that needs to be protected. Especially if you own one of those customized Byerly Icon Edition Nautiques.

Correct Craft Nautique

Byerly Edition Nautique - Courtesty of Correct Craft

Check out that shine! Your boat’s gelcoat is responsible for that colorful, glossy finish. And just like unprotected skin, your boat’s gelcoat can suffer extensive damage from the sun. It won’t turn red and peel but it will start to take on a dull, chalk-like appearance caused by oxidation.

When caught early, oxidation can generally be reversed with a little cleaner and elbow grease. But more extreme cases may require professional work (and we all know that professional work and restoration = unwanted expense).

You can easily avoid the hassle of oxidation damage by investing in a quality boat cover.  We have a large selection of Correct Craft boat covers, including custom covers with wakeboard tower slots. Don’t have a Correct Craft? Visit our boat cover finder to find a boat cover for your boat.

Now through November 30, 2011, use coupon code SAVEMORE to receive a free tie down kit and 5% off any semi-custom or custom boat cover.

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Hooked on a Fall Fishing Feeling

November 11th, 2011 | Posted by LHammer in Boating Locations | Fishing - (Comments Off)

Fall Fishing with a Trolling PlateMan, that warm Indian Summer sun, mixed with that cool crisp autumn breeze.  And check out the colors on those trees! Fall fishing season has arrived in all its glory.

For my money, nothing beats cruising at trolling plate speed down a Pacific Northwest river in the fall (hmm… the Sandy comes to mind). Don’t get me wrong, spring is great, too, especially after one of those seemingly unending wet winters.  But those last days before the monsoons show up are special. The end is near and it’s time to make the most of what’s left.

And the fish dig it, too (up to a point). September through December is the best time for Fall Chinook salmon on the Columbia River and many of its tributaries, as well as many coastal rivers, such as the Trask, Rogue, Wilson, Nehalem, Nestucca, Siletz and Salmon Rivers, to name just a few. And don’t forget the always popular Buoy 10 at the mouth of the Columbia.

If you want to try your hand at landing a real whopper, fish for sturgeon on the Columbia, Rogue or Willamette rivers. In fact, the Columbia River system has the largest sturgeon population in North America!  And, depending on where you fish, you can catch sturgeon all year long. Sturgeon are the biggest freshwater fish in North America, growing up to 12 feet in length and weighing up to 450 lbs., though the “keeper” range is 42 to 60 inches. Needless to say, these big fellas are great fighters and will test your strength.

Winter Steelhead (another great fighter) begin showing up in coastal rivers in November and the season is in full swing by Christmas as they head into the Clackamas, Sandy, and other inland rivers. And if you’re heading to the coast, fall is a great time to go crabbing in the bays and estuaries, where crabs can be abundant. And mighty tasty! Toss in a ring and catch a few. But watch those claws. They can really smart.

So time’s a wastin’!  Whether you’re  fishing from a river or stream bank or cruising with the ol’ trolling plate, the opportunities for great outdoor fall adventures are at hand. But they won’t last long.

The end is near.

Oregon Fall Fishing Resources

  • Southern Oregon Fishing - visit our friend Steven Theel’s blog for fishing reports and excellent tips on fishing in Southern Oregon.
  • Fishing the Rogue- visit Charlie Brown for guided trips on the Rogue River where you can find salmon and steelhead year round.

 

April Fisher, Rochelle Brown, Denise Angvick, Douglas Ford liked this post

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