Monday, October 5, 2009

Planning Ahead

I realize it is early October, but let me point out a few things that might make future boating/fishing seasons a little more bearable... As a former boat salesman and retailer, I have seen it all or at least heard it. Nothing is worse than planning a fishing derby, going on a well deserved dream vacation, or even a weekend outing away from home only to discover something is missing or not working correctly. It all comes down to planning ahead...


If you're one of the many that tucks the boat away for winter or winterizes the boat at the a dealership, plan on scheduling your boat maintenance (engine and trailer) in March of the following year, well ahead of scheduled outings or vacations. As more and more dealerships are going under due to the economy, there are fewer maintenance shops to service your boat, and the waiting periods can be a few weeks if not over a month to get the boat in. A week or two before vacation in the late spring or summer is not the time to attempt to get into the dealership. It isn't going to happen! On the other hand, if you do have an opportunity to get in during the aforementioned time period, you better check the dealership's reputation carefully. There's generally a pretty good reason folks aren't taking their boats there!


This is a great time to look over all of your required safety equipment. Waiting until the boating season to go buy missing items or that have an old expiration date is bound to be painful if you wait until the last minute.


Also, schedule the local Coast Guard Auxillary (CGA) to inspect your boat to get the required safety sticker- if required in your state. The CGA will key in on your boat and inspect on the water if you do not have a concurrent sticker posted on the portside window. If you are lacking the required safety equipment (or outside the expiration date of flares and CO2 bottle(s) you can (may) get ticketed. At a minimum you will be followed back to the point of entry and towing the boat home with a written warning. You will not be able to launch until the CG Auxillary verifies your boat can and will be safe on the water.


Next, let's look at fishing tackle/equipment. Having a chance to spend several hours each season in a lot of retailer's stores delivering product, one of the most common things I hear are: "They're out of..." "When do you plan to get...." Many of these anglers come through the doors happy yet leave upset- mad at the retailer for not having the gear they want. Keep in mind it may not be the retailer's fault. It might be the manufacturer's or angler demand is great. Deep in the heart of fishing season is not the time to be looking for the gear you want or need- trust me. This year (2009) was exceptionally hard on everyone- manufactures to retails and anglers.

Now, before the new year, is the time to take a look at replenishing your tackle stocks, sending the rods. reels, and downriggers in for repairs- if needed. I am not suggesting spending a ton of money. However, you can get a little at a time and restock as necessary. This will not only save a little time in the long run, but a lot of headaches and money. Save money? Yes, each year just about every retailer adjusts their prices to meet manufacturer costs, shipping, and demand as well as cost of inflation.

Lastly, boating/fishing is suppose to be fun and relaxing. Prior proper planning will help ensure this... "Plan now prevents later!"

See you on the water!

- The Captain

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