Glb mar apr 2015 web

W H E R E

F R E S H W A T E R

B O A T E R S

G O

F O R

N E W S

April 2015 greatlakesboating.com

LET THERE BE LIGHT

WEATHER

SPOTTERS

ASSOCIATIONS AID BOATING

CROWNLINE 255 SS BOWRIDER

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PUBLISHER’S

NOTE T

here are certain times of the year when your heart starts pumping a little faster and your enthusiasm gets taken up another notch. Now is that time! It’s March, it’s springtime, and if you’re like me, your thoughts are already turning to boating.

In this issue, we offer a potpourri of articles that explain why we’re holding our heads a little higher, getting a swagger and bounce to our steps, and changing our dour demeanors into broad smiles. We’re ready to get back on the water.

On the boating front, there’s real cause for celebration. Today’s boat manufacturers have made great strides in upgrading the quality of their manufacturing and are introducing new boats at a dizzying pace.

The Crownline 255 and 285 boats featured on our cover and profiled in this issue are great examples of these improvements.

Take a close look at the Crownline bowriders featured in this issue, and you’ll be ready to buy one. It’s hard to believe that a manufacturer can combine high-quality workmanship and innovative design with slow-speed stability and smooth highspeed turning in one boat, but Crownline has done all this and more.

Often times, boat manufacturers will build vessels that compromise speed and performance in favor of comfort and convenience, but not Stingray. The article on page 22 highlights Stingray vessels that are well-designed so that they can hold up to 10 people while reaching top speeds of 56 mph.

Continuing our positive theme is our destination spotlight: Buffalo. Our story beginning on page 14 reveals a city that spent $300 million to renovate, renew, and rebuild its downtown waterfront, transforming that area and the city into a golden jewel of the Great Lakes.

4 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

WHERE BOATERS GO FOR NEWS

Publisher & Editor in Chief F. Ned Dikmen

Make Buffalo your next destination on the Great Lakes, and you won’t be disappointed.

From new marinas, parks, and landscapes, Buffalo’s waterfront is a sight to behold.

Combine these natural outdoor venues with upscale theater districts and art galleries, trendy new boutiques, and zesty new restaurants, including those serving the ever popular Buffalo chicken wings, and you’ll know why recreational boaters are now making Buffalo a can’t miss destination spot.

Managing Editor Karen Malonis Associate Editor Jerome A. Koncel Contributing Writers Peter Burakowski Nancy Pohl Art Direction Alex SanFaçon

Advertising | Sales Inquiries

If Buffalo is transforming itself, so too are local marine trade associations. While they still represent boat dealers, manufacturers, accessory suppliers, and marinas, they are also on the outlook for ways to promote and grow recreational boating and sportfishing.

The primary way recreational boaters encounter these trade associations is through their well-run boat shows.

Neil Dikmen p 312.266.8400 • f 312.266.8470 e info@greatlakesboating.com

GREAT LAKES BOATING® Magazine (ISSN 1937-7274) ©

2015 is a registered trademark (73519-331) of Chicago

Boating Publications, Inc., its publisher, 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

Lest we think that everything about boating is rosy, this issue also alerts boaters to the realities of deteriorating weather conditions. Anyone who has been on any of the Great Lakes knows that weather conditions can change faster than the drop of a hat. As Great Lakes residents often say, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes and it’s bound to change.”

While weather conditions change quickly, boaters are not helpless. There are many things they can and should do to prepare themselves to recognize and deal with deteriorating weather conditions. To find out what you can do, check out the story beginning on page 18.

Prepare yourself for an exciting boating season by subscribing and reading our magazine, reviewing our website (www.greatlakesboating.com), and keep the Great Lakes Boating Federation alive and well. It may be March, but we’re anxious to put our boats in the water.

For editorial inquiries, contact Great Lakes Boating Magazine at 1032 N. LaSalle, Chicago, IL 60610 p 312.266.8400 or e kmalonis@greatlakesboating.com.

Great Lakes Boating Magazine is available online at greatlakesboating.com and at any of the distribution centers and newsstands in areas surrounding the Great Lakes. Postmaster should forward all undelivered issues to Great Lakes Boating Magazine, 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

All manuscripts should be accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope. Great Lakes Boating Magazine is not responsible and will not be liable for non-solicited manuscripts, including photographs.

Great Lakes Boating Magazine does not assume liability or ensure accuracy of the content contained in its articles, editorials, new product releases and advertising. Inquiries may be directed to the authors through the editorial office. Products, services and advertisements appearing in Great Lakes Boating Magazine do not constitute an endorsement or guarantee of their safety by Great Lakes Boating Magazine. Material in the publication may not be reproduced in any form without written consent of the Great Lakes Boating Magazine editorial and executive staff. Past copies may be purchased by sending a written request to the offices of Great Lakes Boating Magazine. For reprints contact: FosteReprints, p 800.382.0808 or f 219.879.8366.

Like the summer Love the lake Live the lifestyle Accepting reservations for 2015 now. www.chicagoharbors.info

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10

CROWNLINE 255 SS BOWRIDER

14 FEATURES Features

CROWNLINE.................................. 10 BUFFALO...................................... 14 BOATING TRADE ASSOCIATIONS....... 24

Spotlight

28

SPOTLIGHTS

WEATHER INDICATORS................... 18 STINGRAY BOATS........................... 22 EATON LIGHTING........................... 28 TAX PROVISIONS............................ 32

THE NEWS InIN the News

GREAT LAKES............................... 34 FISHING....................................... 38 MARINAS..................................... 40 NATIONAL.................................... 42 SAILING....................................... 44

DEPARTMENTS Departments

PUBLISHER’S NOTE...............................4 EDITORIALS...............................................8 NEW PRODUCTS...................................46 BOAT CARE AND FEEDING......................48 EVENTS CALENDAR...............................50 ADVERTISER INDEX...............................52 MARINE MART.....................................52

• READ •

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GLB NEWSLETTER

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Great Lakes Boating now offers boaters a free weekly digital newsletter to keep them informed about news, issues, and events of the Great Lakes.

Visit www.greatlakesboating.com and register by entering your email address into the appropriate box.

Sell your boat on our NEW redesigned Classified Section 6 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

Specifications: LOA:..........................................25’8” Beam:........................................8’6” Deadrise:..................................19º Fuel:..........................................55 gal.

Max. HP:...................................430

T

he quality and innovative design of Crownline’s 255 SS bowrider is a reflection of the company’s team spirit and commitment to excellence.

The bow and cockpit area have a deep freeboard design that provides a more comfortable ride and added security for everyone on board. The wrap-around extended swim platform features a soft touch mat and four-step ladder for slip-free boarding.

The walk-thru transom has filler cushions to complete the U-wrap seating in the cockpit, and both the driver and passenger bucket seats come standard with flip-up bolsters.

The bow area features “hot tub-style” lounge seats that conform perfectly to one’s body, and open to reveal generous storage areas beneath both bow seats.

Some additional standard features include fully recessed bow walk-thru door, depth sounder with outside air and water temperature display, digital gauges, and a dual battery switch.

The 255 SS is built on Crownline’s ingenious F.A.S.T. Tab ® hull, designed for slow-speed stability, smooth high-speed turning and improved time-to-plane.

For a complete list of options, engine/drive applications, standard features, and full details regarding Crownline’s “Best In Class” warranty, visit www.crownline.com or contact the nearest Crownline dealer.

Crownline Boats 11884 Country Club Road West Frankfort, IL 62896 618-937-6426

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EDITORIALS

REPORTS, SURVEYS AND NO ACTIONS As a boating magazine, we receive on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis numerous press releases and public relations efforts related to surveys, reports, and other research efforts that purport to be of great consequence to the health and well-being of recreational boating and sportfishing on the Great Lakes.

Once we’ve received these releases, we ask, “Where do these surveys, reports, and other scientific research come from?” In a few cases, the answer is private firms. In many cases, the government funds these efforts, and so we ask the next question: What’s the public getting for its money?

It seems that the answer is thorough, outstanding scientific research and employment for several thousand people, but not much more. We believe this has got to change, and here are two major examples of why.

On Jan. 6, 2014, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers delivered to the U.S. Congress a voluminous report entitled “The Great Lakes Mississippi River Interbasin Study (GLMRIS).” It was a two-year, multi-million dollar study undertaken by employees of various state and federal agencies that have some or major responsibility for keeping aquatic invasive species out of the Great Lakes.

The GLMRIS Report, which was ordered by Congress, did not propose one alternative for preventing the spread of invasive species into the Great Lakes. To the dismay of many, it came up with eight alternatives because this is exactly what Congress instructed them to do.

As we reported last year, of these eight alternatives, some have been tried, others have been rejected by federal courts, and still others are considered “pie in the sky” because of the amount of money required to build them ($25 billion) and the length of time need to complete them (15 years).

What has happened to this report? What has Congress done with it? Is the Asian carp still a real danger?

Our second example took place in August 2014 when the city of Toledo issued a warning to its 500,000 citizens that the drinking water was unsafe due to toxins in the water. It

was the lead story on nightly newscasts, a major story in newspapers around the country, and social media had a field day with it on the Internet. The cause of this unsafe water? An algal bloom on the western shore of Lake Erie.

Unfortunately, this is not the first time an algal bloom has appeared on Lake Erie’s western shore. In fact, the single, largest algal bloom in the history of Lake Erie occurred in the summer of 2011. As one might expect, there were numerous studies, surveys, and scientific research papers written and published. One of the most ambitious was from the International Joint Commission (IJC), which represents the U.S. and Canada on matters dealing with the Great Lakes.

Based on research from dozens of scientists from both sides of the border, IJC concluded that the cause of the algae blooms came mainly from phosphorus runoff from agricultural and urban sources. It recommended a reduction in dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) primarily through the use of best management practices in agri-farming and possibly the use of regulatory mechanisms.

The IJC made 16 specific recommendations that addressed the toxic algae outbreaks. It urged governments on all levels to set phosphorus reduction targets, reduce DRP from agriculture and urban sources, and strengthen monitoring and research.

Here’s the problem in a nutshell: IJC’s recommendations to local, state, and federal governments are clear, concrete, and practical. They point to phosphorus as a key factor in freshwater algae growth. When will local, state, and federal governments take some decisive action(s) to solve the problem based on this information?

Doesn’t anyone in power listen to people interested in keeping the Great Lakes free from pollutants? Do we need more studies, surveys, or more action? Although reports, surveys, and scientific research are important, they’re even better if they lead to actions for the health and well-being of the Great Lakes.

AGREE? DISAGREE? WANT TO COMMENT? EMAIL YOUR THOUGHTS TO LET TERS@GREATLAKESBOATING.COM

8 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

BOATING WITH NO DIRECTION One of the most troubling things about the recreational boating and fishing industry is that it’s nearly impossible to determine fact from fiction. This makes it difficult for us to tell our readers how the industry is doing because we don’t know how good, bad, or indifferent things are. Let’s cite some specific examples.

boating grow and develop. Local and state governments, trade associations, and corporations don’t have the money.

Only the federal government has the funds to effectively grow recreational boating, but it has to change its priorities and make more effective use of available funds. Here’s what we’re talking about.

We’re not sure if the number of recreational boaters on the Great Lakes is 4.2 million, 4.3 million, or under 4 million? Which organization determines this figure and how is it attained?

The Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) program takes money collected from marine fuel taxes, purchases of marine gear and fishing paraphernalia, and returns that money to boaters in the form of grant money to build transient slips for boats 26 feet and longer.

We are uncertain what exactly is meant when we hear leaders in the boating industry talk about recreational boating’s “total economic impact” on a local, state, or national economy.

What is an “economic impact,” and how is it determined?

We’re not sure whether our calls to the federal government to allocate more funds to improve, grow, and strengthen recreational boating and sportfishing are being heard or are even reaching the right people who can do something about them. It’s as if the federal government doesn’t hear our calls or is simply ignoring us, and we feel that it’s the latter.

Is the boating industry in “boom times” or still struggling to survive? If you read that boat dealers and manufacturers are forecasting sales growth of 8 to10 percent in 2015, and this follows a similar growth figure in 2014, you would say that the recreational boating industry is booming.

If we were to review these boom times from the perspective of just 10 years ago, however, one comes up with a different reaction. Ten years ago, the number of new boats sold in the U.S. was around 300,000. This year, that number is approximately 180,000. It’s in survival mode.

So, if the federal government can give money to farmers not to grow products, why can’t it give money to Discover Boating to grow recreational boating and sportfishing? Let’s face it, the amount of money currently used for DB activities is paltry ($7.8 million) compared to what’s really needed ($30 million), and the federal government has the money.

This may sound like a big bonanza for recreational boating and fishing, but it is not a good idea. Why? Because we’re facing a dock surplus, not a dock shortage. Take a look around at the marinas on the Great Lakes. Are there more vacant slips than filled ones? If you answered “Yes,” you’re correct and that’s exactly why we don’t need more transient slips.

Where should the money go? We believe it should go to our failing infrastructures of crumbling breakwaters, decaying docks, and antiquated fuel docks. We must face the facts that many existing marinas have either not made or delayed making needed changes because they simply don’t have the money. There is a crying need for funds, and the federal government can provide them if it changes the BIG program.

Here’s a novel proposal that can help boating, our youngsters, and society. One of the biggest problems facing our youngsters is a lack of exercise. It’s said that they spend too much of their time on electronic devices instead of outdoor pastimes. One of the best outside sporting activities is recreational boating and fishing. Why doesn’t the federal government provide funds to the Great Lakes states to develop programs and activities to take our youngsters out on the Great Lakes and teach them how to boat and fish? This would help youngsters, help recreational boating, and improve society.

It may seem like we are picking on the federal government, but it is the only viable source for funds to help recreational

greatlakesboating.com | 9

255 SS BOWRIDER S P E C I F I C AT I O N S LOA:..................................... 25’8” Beam:................................... 8’6” Deadrise:.............................. 19º Fuel:...................................... 55 gal.

Max. HP:.............................. 430

10 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

Crownline Boats has been building visually inspiring boats with innovative designs since 1991. Their boats reflect the tremendous team spirit and commitment to excellence that everyone involved with the company shares.

255 SS BOWRIDER

nown for its high quality and innovative designs, Crownline’s 255 SS Bowrider definitely lives up to those standards. The curvature of the style lines designed into the profile of the boat are accentuated by stainless steel accents and lustrous gelcoat. On board is a stylish, well-appointed interior design that also offers passengers the convenience and comfort they want and expect.

The bow and cockpit area have a very deep freeboard design, which provides a very comfortable ride, along with added security for everyone on board. The wraparound extended swim platform features a soft touch mat and stainless steel four-step ladder for slip-free boarding. The walk-thru transom has filler cushions to complete the spacious U-wrap seating in the cockpit, and both the driver and passenger bucket seats come standard with flip-up bolsters.

The helm features a vinyl wrapped dash with woodgrain insert and solid wood steering wheel with brushed aluminum spokes. The bow area of the 255 SS features “hot tub-style” lounge seats that conform perfectly to one’s body for maximum comfort. Passengers can open both bow seats to reveal spacious storage areas beneath. There’s also in-floor storage and additional storage space beneath the cockpit seats.

Owners can take the 255 SS Bowrider to their favorite party cove. While here, they can relax and enjoy the activities from the aft facing swim platform seating, listening to their favorite tunes coming from social swim transom speakers. Crownline puts a total of six standard speakers throughout the boat.

Crownline is proud of the design and aesthetic looks of its 255 SS, but it is equally confident in the boat’s performance. The 255 SS is built on Crownline’s ingenious F.A.S.T. Tab ® hull, designed for slow-speed stability, smooth high-speed turning, and improved time-to-plane.

Additional standard features on this model include a fully recessed bow walk-thru door, a depth sounder that displays outside air and water temperatures, six 6-inch stainless steel pull-up cleats embossed with the Crownline logo, digital gauges, a dual battery switch, stainless steel cupholders and grab handles, and a stainless steel windshield header.

Although the Crownline 255 SS Bowrider has plenty of standard features, the company also lets owners customize the boat to meet their needs. For a complete list of options, engine/drive applications, and full details regarding Crownline’s “Best In Class” warranty, visit the company’s website: www.crownline.com or contact the nearest Crownline dealer. greatlakesboating.com | 11

285 SS BOWRIDER

he gleaming gelcoat and sleek, sporty style lines of the 285 SS Bowrider are definitely eye catching. Combine them with Crownline’s F.A.S.T. Tab® hull design and boaters won’t only have a beauty of a boat, but also one that insures planing efficiency and increases stability in high-speed turns.

This 28’6” bowrider gave Crownline’s design team plenty of room to operate so that they could incorporate almost every possible feature anyone could ever want or need in a bowrider. The soft touch swim platform mat and four-step stainless steel ladder make it easy to get in and out of the boat. The aft convertible sun lounge seat can be adjusted to a three quarter position or all the way down for comfortable sunbathing.

Passengers can enter the cockpit through the gated walk-thru transom and inside they’ll find an inviting, luxurious interior. The roomy J-wrap cockpit seating is made from a premium tri-color platinum marine vinyl.

The instrument panel has digital gauges that are set in a woodgrain dash and the wooden steering wheel comes with aluminum spokes. Both driver and passenger bucket seats come standard with handy flip-up bolsters. A flush fit bow close-out door allows early and late boating seasons to be extended with more comfort.

The bow features “hot tub-style” lounge seating that is designed to offer deep cushion support. The seats have stainless steel hinges so that passengers can easily open them to reveal huge storage areas beneath.

The 285 has an enclosed head compartment that comes equipped with wood grain cabinetry with solid surface accents and an upper storage compartment, a stainless steel sink and faucet with pressurized water, portable toilet, and electric vent. There’s also an easy opening port light window for ventilation.

Crownline doesn’t disappoint when it comes to boat performance. The 285 includes as standard a threestep automatic battery charger, dual battery switch, depth sounder with outside air and water temperature display, premium stereo with six speakers, and much more. There’s plenty of storage throughout the boat, along with an abundance of stainless steel that’s found in the conveniently placed cupholders, windshield header, rubrail, hardware, and grab handles.

If the boat owner wants to customize the 285 SS Bowrider, Crownline has a long list of options to meet the owner’s total satisfaction. To find a complete list of available options, including engine/drive applications, and information on Crownline’s “Best in Class” warranty, visit: www.crownline.com or contact the nearest Crownline dealer.

12 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

285 SS BOWRIDER S P E C I F I C AT I O N S LOA:................................... 28’6” Beam:................................. 8’6” Deadrise:............................ 23º Fuel:.................................... 84 gals.

Max. HP:............................ 430

www.crownline.com

greatlakesboating.com | 13

BUFFALO

QUEEN CITY OF THE GREAT LAKES

BY PETER BURAKOWSKI

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. At the turn of the 20th century, Buffalo, N.Y. saw exponential expansion of its population, industry, and wealth, thanks in large part to its position at the convergence of the eastern end of Lake Erie, the western terminus of the Erie Canal and the mouth of the Niagara River.

Grain and raw materials for steelmaking from the Midwestern states would arrive via ship or freighter and then either be processed into finished goods (using hydropower from nearby Niagara Falls) or transferred to canal boats or rail cars destined for America’s East Coast. As a result of this activity, Buffalo earned the nickname the “Queen City of

14 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

the Great Lakes,” while growing to become the country’s eighth largest city and home to one of the nation’s greatest concentrations of millionaires.

Today, Buffalo’s waterfront is no longer about industry—it’s about history, dining, entertainment, watersports, and unparalleled fishing. And the rest of Buffalo? Those captains of industry built a city of stunning architecture and world-class art, culture, music, theater, and natural spaces.

WHERE TO DOCK Buffalo’s Erie Basin Marina might be about boats and water, but the view from the

air is quite interesting, since the marina was built in the shape of a buffalo. A public boat launch site, the marina is very convenient for weekend sailors. It is also close to downtown attractions and accommodations for anyone making the tour of Lake Erie by boat. Looking for a bite to eat? Stop by Templeton Landing for fine dining or visit The Hatch for ice cream and something off the grill. For more information, call 716-851-6501 or visit www.eriebasinmarina.org.

The NFTA Boat Harbor is located less than three miles from downtown Buffalo. It features visitor slips, pump out, fuel, showers, a bait shop, and the casual Dug’s Dive restaurant. For more information, call 716828-0027 or visit www.nftaboatharbor.com.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO Buffalo’s emerging Canalside district, which is adjacent to the Erie Basin Marina, connects visitors to Buffalo’s proud Erie Canal history. This vibrant area has undergone more than $300 million in exciting new development, and includes the schooner Spirit of Buffalo, the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park (America’s largest inland naval park), interpretive signage, canoe and kayak rentals, the hip Liberty Hound restaurant, and more than 1,000 events, from free yoga to shows by nationally touring rock acts.

Canalside attracted more than 1 million visitors in 2014, helped by the opening of the district’s first hotel, a Courtyard by Marriott.

Also nearby is HarborCenter, a $170 million complex featuring two NHL size ice rinks for college and amateur hockey tournaments and a two-story sports bar with a 38-foot television screen, (716) Food & Sport. A

200-room Marriott hotel will open on top of HarborCenter in summer 2015. Across the street from HarborCenter is First Niagara Center, home to the NHL’s Buffalo Sabres.

With three NHL rinks within a couple city blocks, it’s no wonder the national media is branding Buffalo as a hockey mecca.

On the subject of history, hop in a cab to go stand where Teddy Roosevelt took the oath of office at the recently renovated Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site or learn about Buffalo’s Native American, ethnic, and industrial heritage at The Buffalo History Museum.

Mark Twain spent time in Buffalo as a newspaper editor in the late 19th century.

Leaves from his original manuscript of the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn are on display in the Mark Twain Room at downtown’s central library. The city is also filled with

Maid of the Mist

Spirit of Buffalo

greatlakesboating.com | 15

Canalside Nancy Parisi/Visit Buffalo Niagara

African American heritage. For starters, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, and other giants of jazz performed at the Colored Musician’s Club.

View one of the world’s most impressive collections of modern and contemporary art, including works by Pollock, deKooning, and Warhol, are at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. Across the street is the stunning new Burchfield Penney Art Center, which is committed to the art of Buffalo and Western New York.

As people walk around Buffalo, they’ll see some of the finest architecture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, featuring buildings by Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, H.H. Richardson, Richard Upjohn, Eliel and Eero Saarinen, and others. There are also gorgeous parks and parkways by Frederick Law Olmsted.

If performing arts are of interest, Buffalo has some two dozen theaters, anchored by the Tiffany-designed Shea’s Performing Arts Center, which hosts an annual Broadway Series. And the Grammy Award-winning Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra is led by JoAnn Falletta, who has been hailed by the New York Times as one of the finest conductors of her generation.

Food lovers rejoice, because while the Buffalo Niagara region is justifiably proud of its chicken wings (and no trip to Buffalo is complete without a stop at the Anchor Bar), it also boasts 1,100 independently owned restaurants, delicious local specialties, a pair of wine trails, and vibrant farmers markets.

Shoppers will find everything from hip boutiques in Buffalo’s trendy Elmwood Village, Allentown and Hertel neighborhoods to major department stores at a number of local shopping centers and malls.

Buffalo has a wealth of options for sports fans, including the NHL’s Sabres and AAA baseball’s Bisons, which both play within steps of Erie Basin Marina, and the NFL’s Bills, who have their stadium in the suburb of Orchard Park.

And if incredible entertainment, dining, art and culture aren’t enough, Buffalo has a natural wonder—Niagara Falls—just 20 minutes away. At Niagara Falls State Park, one can get up-close with the roaring waters at the Cave of the Winds or venture to the base of the falls on a Maid of the Mist boat tour.

For more information about events, attractions and things to do in Buffalo Niagara, go to www.visitbuffaloniagara.com or contact Visit Buffalo Niagara at 1-800-BUFFALO. All photos from Visit Buffalo Niagara

A first class destination this beautiful safe deep water marina features exceptional amenities with superior customer service

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Only a Short Walk to Historic Racine for Shopping, Dining & Entertainment Outdoor Heated Pool / Hot Tubs Newly Remodeled Restrooms Fuel Dock / Free Pump Outs New Onsite Restaurant New Boater’s Lounge Fish Cleaning Station Grills / Picnic Areas New Boater Store Free WiFi OWNED BY:

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reefpointmarina.org 2 Christopher Columbus Causeway Racine, Wisconsin EMAIL reefpoint@goracine.org PHONE 262.633.7171

the ONLY Great Lakes Marina designated 1st CHOICE

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KEY INDIC ! TORS

OF

DETERIORATING WEATHER

Photo by Rose Weddell © 123rf.com

18 GLB | March/April 2015

D

espite the best technology and advances in forecasting, weather remains extremely local and changeable. The keys to avoiding dangerous weather include checking forecasts

frequently and learning to recognize signs of deteriorating conditions.

Stay on Top of the Forecast—Checking

• K now the direction from which most

the weather before you go out on the wa-

storms originate in your area. Then

greater, a gale warning is issued. The

ter—including just before departure—is

keep a close watch in that direction

U.S. Coast Guard recommends that

one important aspect of boating safely.

while you’re on the water, but don’t

all mariners without the proper

Unfortunately, local weather reports are

forget to scan in all directions.

experience seek safe mooring before

often general and too infrequent. A reliable weather forecast can be found by visiting

wind speeds reach 34 knots and

gale warnings are issued.

• I n planning your trip, weather may

the National Oceanic and Atmospheric

force you to change plans, so be sure

Association (NOAA), which has

to note the location and approximate

weather signs through a boating

network that covers all United States

time it will take you to get to an

weather course, a good reference book,

coastal areas. You can tune to the NOAA

accessible safe harbor.

and some of the online tips available.

a radio

• L earn how to read clouds and other

weather radio station in your area and get the latest report around the clock using a

• Make sure you know how to use a sea

special NOAA weather radio or any marine

drogue or sea anchor, or things that

VHF radio. For more information, visit

could be used as makeshift substitutes.

www.nws.noaa.gov/om/marine/home.htm.

Remaining alert and attuned to chang• Know the meanings and locations of

But Don’t Rely on Forecasts Alone—

shore-based storm signals in your area.

Large bodies of water and indented coastal areas can have highly variable

Stay Alert to Weather Signs on the Water

es that can signal impending bad weather is always important on the water. Here are a few general signs to

• B e aware of storm warnings. If the

watch out for when on the water:

local weather conditions. For example,

wind speed is above a certain

wind speed can dramatically increase

threshold, (usually 21 to 33 knots), a

and even differ from the prevailing di-

Small Craft Advisory is issued,

change in the wind often mean a

rection as wind is funneled through

meaning all vessels under 65 feet in

storm is near. Strong winds that start

narrow channels. Geological features

length should exercise caution. When

in the morning are particularly

• A sudden drop in temperature and

like cliffs or high coastal ground can cause local turbulence.

And remember that the weather is always susceptible to quick and unexpected changes. Staying tuned to local marine weather reports is smart, but doesn’t replace a good “weather eye” and constant situational awareness. A

Get Weather Wise! The U.S. Power Squadron offers a Basic Weather and Forecasting course. To locate a class, go to: www.usps.org/cgi-bin-nat/eddept/cfind.cgi?C.

few pre-trip tips:

greatlakesboating.com | 19

worrisome, because the longer the wind blows, the larger the waves.

• L isten for thunder and watch for lightning and rough water. Remember that boats, particularly sailboats, are vulnerable to lightning if not grounded.

• Fog can create problems in inlets and bays or open water. Fog typically forms during temperature changes in early morning or evening and can last for long periods.

• H igh pressure generally indicates fair weather, while low pressure means storms are more likely. However, a more important indicator is the rate of change in barometric pressure. If you have a barometer on board, check it every two to three hours. A large change in pressure will signal a large change in weather and an increase in wind strength.

• Take note of cloud formations:

Old Sailors’ Words Have More Than a Grain of Truth Red Sky at Night, Sailor’s Delight; Red Sky at Morning, Sailor Take Warning In the mid-latitudes of the northern hemisphere, the setting sun shines through the dust and pollution in the lower atmosphere, making a red sunset. If an area of high air pressure is present, the air sinks, holding more dust and smog near the earth, making sunset even redder. If the sky is red in the eastern morning sky, a high-pressure area has most likely passed, and an area of low pressure may follow, along with rain or storms.

Rainbow in the Morning Gives You Fair Warning In northern hemisphere mid-latitudes, weather generally travels from west to east. A morning rainbow signals moisture or rain to the west of you, meaning that your area will soon have rain.

When Halo Rings the Moon or Sun, Rain’s Approaching on the Run A halo around the sun or moon is caused by the refraction of sunlight or moonlight by ice crystals at high altitude—which can signal that an active weather system is on its way.

If You Are Caught in Deteriorating Weather, Follow These Directives • Make sure every passenger is wearing a life jacket.

◊ Cloud build-up, especially rapid, vertically rising clouds. Check for puffy or cumulus clouds that show a lot of vertical development—these indicate unstable air. The greater the

• At the first sign of lightning, put down and stow fishing rods and lower or remove antennas; secure power to all non-essential electrical equipment. Tell passengers to stay low and near the centerline of the boat, and avoid all metal objects.

• Have visual distress signals, such as flares, ready, and keep the VHF radio tuned to channel 16. The Coast Guard often issues urgent marine information broadcasts (UMIBs) and gives severe weather advisories on channel 16.

vertical development of the cloud, the

• Stow and secure all loose belongings.

greater the instability. Thunderstorm

• The weight of your belongings and passengers is especially important to smaller crafts, so make sure the load is evenly balanced fore and aft.

clouds have the greatest vertical development and the associated

• Close all hatches, windows, and doors to reduce the chance of swamping.

weather can be violent.

• Pump out bilges and keep them dry. Be prepared to remove water with a manual hand pump or hand bailer.

◊ Other cloud patterns to note include clouds lowering and thickening; clouds increasing in number and moving fast across the sky; veils or sheets of gray clouds increasing on the western horizon; and clouds moving in different directions at different heights.

By U.S. Coast Guard Division of Boating Safety

20 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

• Change to a full fuel tank, if possible.

• When meeting head seas, put the bow into the wind at about a 40- to 45-degree angle to the waves, and reduce your speed to ride up and over the wave. This will help keep your vessel’s bow from diving while coming off the backside of the wave.

• Maintain steerage way by using engine or sail. If there is reduced or restricted visibility, display your navigation lights.

• If a safe harbor is near, it is best to head for it. If not, it may be necessary to ride out the storm.

• If caught in fog, be sure to sound the appropriate sound signals.

• If the engine stops, drop a sea anchor on a line off the bow to keep the bow headed into the wind and reduce drifting.

• If the sea anchor is not sufficient, use your conventional anchor, if the water depth permits. This will help prevent your boat from drifting into shoal waters.

234 LR SPORT DECK

S P E C I F I C AT I O N S LOA:.................................................. 23’8” Beam:................................................. 8’5” Deadrise:...............................................21 Engine Type:....................................... O/B Fuel Capacity:................................56 gal.

Stingray’s latest models include the 234 LR Sport Deck, and its ever popular 225 CR Cuddy Cabin, both of which are good examples of how Stingray has attained its reputation for safety, comfort, and performance.

The 234LR is the sister boat to Stingray’s 235DR, a sterndrive powered boat. If you thought Stingray simply hitched an outboard to the back of the 235 platform to create this Sport/Cruiser, think again. It took engineers 18 months to figure out the weight to balance ratio and the wait was well worth it. The result is a convenient, comfortable, and versatile vessel for either cruising or watersports.

Stingray’s 234 begins by using patented Z hull design (1989) for smooth, stable handling, quick planing, and top-end speeds. It can be powered by different outboards, but a standard Yamaha F250 works quite well.

Its benefits are a top end speed of more than 55 mph at less cost and with better fuel economy than comparable boats.

Because it began as a sterndrive model, the 234 has plenty of storage space left

22 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

over from where the sterndrive V8 would have gone. This extra space was carried to the front of the boat’s console, adding depth and strategically placed grab bars in the bow pit so that passengers feel safe and secure even when the boat makes tight turns at fast speeds.

The L-shaped lounge area at the back of the cockpit stores a 25-quart portable cooler, in addition to the one on board.

Pull up a stored table, and the lounge becomes a convenient, comfortable dining area.

The 234 has plenty of room for storing items, such as waterskis, wakeboards, and inflatable tubes. It also offers a tower with an optional bimini top.

Stingray gives owners the opportunity to customize their boats, but there’s little need for this because the convenience package on the 234 comes as standard on the boat. It includes LED cockpit lighting, an upgraded stereo, a second shower in the stern and two bucket seats with side vents and windows at the helm.

S T I N G R AY 2 2 5 CR

S P E C I F I C AT I O N S LOA:................................................. 22’11” Beam:.................................................. 8’4” Deadrise:............................................... 20 Engine Type:..........................................I/O Fuel Capacity:.............................. 56 gals.

This is a versatile, family-style boat made for cruising, overnighting, and just having fun. This trailerable boat is a family-fun affair with places for stowing kids away for afternoon naps, gear for tubing or skiing, and and everyone for an overnight sleep.

While geared for families and those who like overnight stays, the 225CR does not sacrifice speed and power. At maximum output, it will reach 56 mph and even more, according to the manufacturer. At a cruising speed of 30 mph, its fuel consumption is 8.4 gallons/hour.

The interior has a molded fiberglass liner with a sink and water system on the port side and a butane stove on the starboard.

Cabin seating runs the length of the starboard side V-berth. There is sleeping room for two, and the port side can hold a third passenger. The portable head is found beneath the V-berth.

On top, the cuddy has a wraparound windshield with a center console walk through.

Three molded center steps allow access to the boat’s bow.

The captain and mate’s bucket seats come with fold-up bolsters. The center gauges on the console provides oil pressure, voltage, temperature, and fuel readings. On either side of these gauges are the tachometer and speedometer, along with the depth and trim readings.

The rear seat is ahead of the engine and wraps around both sides of the cockpit. A table is stored under the rear deck and can be used to make this a dining area.

The area over the engine is a sun area with three cushions. The center one can be removed so that swimmers can access the rear swim platform without walking on the upholstery. In addition, there is a large storage area under the sun lounge.

The 225 CR is available with three engine options: 270, 300, and 320 hp. The company’s patented Z-hull design means that strakes are recessed into the hull, instead of protruding outside, to reduce turbulence and provide a smooth ride.

WWW.STINGRAYBOATS.COM

greatlakesboating.com | 23

BY JEROME A. KONCEL

T

hey appear as acronyms in mag-

fishing. Two of the biggest are that boating is

azines and newspapers, i.e.,

very costly and owning a boat isn’t easy.

LEMTA, MBIA, and BIAUNY, but they stand for state boating

Polan scoffs at the notion that boating is a

associations that play an increasingly import-

“rich person’s sport,” noting that more than

ant role in promoting recreational boating

90 percent of all registered boats in the U. S.

throughout the Great Lakes.

are under 26 feet. She adds that it’s cheaper to buy a boat than a mid-sized car. “You can

These associations vary from state to state, but

own a fishing boat with an outboard motor, for

their goals and purposes are very similar: to

a small down payment, and monthly payments

promote boating and fishing in all its forms so

of $250/month,” Polan said.

that boat and motor dealers, as well as accessory suppliers and service centers, can be suc-

In interviews with TV reporters, newspapers,

cessful businesses.

and magazines, Polan stresses that while her organization represents marine manufacturers

To find out how these state boating associa-

and dealers, it is very interested in growing

tions promote recreational boating, we inter-

boating in all its forms. “That’s why we’re strong

viewed three leading associations.

supporters of the Discover Boating campaign,” Polan said. She believes the campaign is doing

MBIA

things the right way to build awareness and

The Michigan Boating Industries Associa-

then move people toward manufacturers.

tion (MBIA) describes itself as “the voice of recreational boating in Michigan.”

When it comes to boating issues and challenges, Polan said her goal is to work closely with

Representing more than 380 marine business-

all sectors of the boating industry to present a

es throughout the state and Canada, MBIA’s

united front. For example, while lake levels are

goal is to grow the boating industry by pro-

currently rising, the need for dredging funds

moting, protecting, and advocating for the

isn’t disappearing. “Our goal is to make sure

boating industry. It strives to show boaters and

that money for dredging remains intact from

non-boaters alike the joys of boating by pro-

one year to another,” Polan said.

ducing three boat shows during the year: the Detroit Boat Show, which was held Feb. 14-22

MBIA is not the only organization working on

at Cobo Hall in downtown Detroit; a spring

behalf of the marine industry, so it partners with

Boating Expo in Novi, Mich.; and a Boating and

others, such as Michigan Sea Grant, to develop

Outdoor Festival in the fall that will be held at

programs, such as Clean Marinas, that benefit

the Lake St. Clair Metropark.

both parties. “We established our Clean Marinas program in 2005, and were the first Great

Nicki Polan is MBIA’s pres-

Lakes state to do so,” Polan said. So far, 42

ident and she points out

marinas have been certified as Clean Marinas.

that recreational boating and fishing are essential

LEMTA

to the state’s econom-

It’s called the Lake Erie Marine Trades Asso-

ic well-being. “Michigan

ciation (LEMTA), but the scope of its activities

has more than 600 miles

makes it more like a state marine association.

of lakes shoreline, more

Its goal is to provide legislative advocacy,

than 11,000 inland lakes, and more than 1,000

educational support, and promotional efforts

access sites for boating and fishing,” Polan

to improve boating, and it does a good job of

said. “Recreational boating and sportfishing

meeting this goal.

Nicki Polan

has an economic impact of $7.4 billion on the state of Michigan.”

LEMTA was started in 1957 and currently has about 100 members. Ken Alvey, LEMTA’s exec-

As much as she takes pride in sharing the sta-

utive director, said the main way the asso-

tistical information about recreational boating,

ciation promotes and supports recreational

Polan is equally adept in using PR and market-

boating is through its boat shows in Cleveland,

ing to dispel some “myths” about boating and

Columbus, Sandusky, and Port Clinton, Ohio

24 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

MacRay Harbor

greatlakesboating.com | 25

and a show in Michigan City, Ind. “Our Mid-America Boat Show (Jan. 15-19) in Cleveland was bigger than ever,” Alvey said.

While critics contend that there are too many boat shows, Alvey touts their many benefits. “Boat shows are an opportunity to bring businesses and boaters together under one roof,” he said.

Attending a show helps boaters maximize their time and effort in shopping for new boats and products, while presenting dealers with a great opportunity to make sales.

Ken Alvey

LEMTA is very active in state government, seeking funds for new boating facilities, improving existing ones, and monitoring the state Waterway Safety Fund to make sure the money from gas taxes and licenses goes back into boating.

“We also are heavily involved in solving algae blooms on Lake Erie,” Alvey said.

LEMTA’s practical approaches to promote boating find it serving on various state advisoThe Detroit Boat Show

Another practical LEMTA effort is working with the United States Coast Guard, Custom Border Protection, and state and local agencies on Regional Area Maritime Security committees and local area task forces to ensure that recreational boaters and the charter boat industry have a voice in security decisions that affect their lives.

As far as LEMTA’s efforts to grow boating are concerned, Alvey says that he is a strong supporter of Discover Boating. “It’s doing a good job of enlightening people about boating and highlighting its fun and enjoyment,” Alvey said.

He added that LEMTA also backs the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation’s efforts to get more Hispanics into boating.

BIAUNY

The Boating Industries Association of Upstate New York (BIAUNY) is known as a local boating association that carries a big stick. Although it has fewer than 100 members, the group provides outstanding service to its members and the boating community, and for this it recently won the Bill Ferguson Award from the Marine Retailers Association of America (MRAA).

In presenting the award to Barb Caster, BIAUNY’s executive secretary, MRAA vice president Liz Walz said, “The BIA of Upstate New York...is active in state level politics, puts on an impressive boat show each year, works tirelessly to promote and advocate for safe boating, and goes above and beyond to support member education.”

ry committees, representing boating interests.

“We sit on the Governor’s Coastal Resources Advisory Council representing the views of boaters on issues such as water quality, submerged land, and so forth,” Alvey said.

The organization is also a strong advocate of education in junior colleges and vocational schools. “Finding a talented workforce that is willing to work in the marine industry is a real challenge,” Alvey noted.

26 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

Caster told GLB that boat shows are the primary way recreational boaters interact with BIAUNY, and its most recent show in Syracuse, Feb. 11-15, was one of the largest boat shows in the state. “We filled more than 250,000 sq. ft. of space at the New York State Fairgrounds with more than 500 boats, information exhibits, and boating safety and educational seminars,” she said.

One achievement that BIAUNY is most proud of is the Discover Clean & Safe Boating campaign that it developed in 2008 in conjunction with the New York Sea Grant

(NYSG). Each year, NYSG’s Dave White travels throughout the state with a Clean & Safe Boating vessel donated by a BIAUNY member. The vessel is equipped with all the recommended gear and equipment for a clean and safe boating experience.

The Discover Clean & Safe Boating campaign, which has educated more than half a million New York boaters about how to be legal, safe, and environmentally friendly on New York waters and the Great Lakes, has led to a public education program on cable television. Every third Saturday from May through October, White hosts short segments with BIA members, and BIAUNY supports this monthly segment with direct financial aid.

Caster said recreational boaters might also be familiar with BIA of Upstate New York through its efforts to get more kids into boating. “We hold free safety courses for kids at our boat shows, and we also hold seminars for all boaters on the wearing of lifejackets,” Caster said. She added that BIA of Upstate New York, NYSG, and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary join forces in tirelessly promoting the Wear It! Lifejacket campaign.

On the national scene, BIA supports local, state, and national efforts to grow boating, encourages its members to be politically active, and is alarmed about the growing shortage of mechanics. “There is a real shortage of qualified certified mechanics to fix and repair boats,” Caster said. BIAUNY encourages its members to visit local schools and colleges touting the values of the marine industry and espousing a career as a certified marine technician.

DUAL ROLES

Although state boating associations primarily represent boat and motor dealers, marine manufacturers, and marine accessories suppliers, each of the leaders we interviewed said that their role is a dual one, for they also want to grow boating by supporting recreational boating and fishing. Their dual roles may sometimes lead to conflicts, but for the most part, they are complementary. This has led Alvey, Caster, and Polan to acknowledge that what’s good for boaters is good for their associations.

MAKING MEMORIES...

255

S S

The sleek “Sports Car” styling and lustrous gelcoat of Crownline’s 255 SS bowrider, combined with the unmatched performance of the F.A.S.T. Tab hull design, create an eye-catching bowrider that handles like a dream. And its versatile seating configuration (“Hot tub” style bow lounge seats, conversation-friendly U-wrap cockpit and aft facing platform seating) ensures everyone has a great seat. With well thought out features throughout, the Crownline 255 SS is the perfect bowrider for making exceptional boating memories with your family and friends.

You might just flip over it! ®

S T Y L I N G •Q U A L I T Y •C O M M I T M E N T 11884 Country Club Rd. West Frankfort, IL 62896

www.crownline.com

MARINE P When it comes to the boating lifestyle, most recreational boaters don’t think twice about their utilities, such as electricity, water, and sewers, and whether they are safe, secure, and reliable. Every boater expects these to be operating properly whenever they’re needed. It’s only when a problem arises or a disaster occurs that boaters start realizing what it takes to ruin an enjoyable day of boating.

Here’s the new reality. Boats are becoming bigger, not smaller. The electrical demands of these boats are growing, not shrinking. Today’s larger boats require more power for their air conditioners, cable TVs, computers, and other electronic utilities. The growing power demands require safe, reliable electrical equipment.

The recreational boating industry is fortunate enough to have power and lighting suppliers that not only do a great job of providing safe and reliable products for the here and now, but also developing new and innovative technologies

for the future. One of the leaders in this area is Eaton Marine Power & Lighting of Williamsburg, Va. Eaton Marina offers recreational boaters a complete line of electrical power system products, including dock lights, dock pedestals, and electrical distribution equipment. The company provides products that are tested, certified, and listed as safe for use by Underwriters Laboratories. Their products not only are designed to meet local electrical codes, but they also exceed National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements. What’s even better is that Eaton Marina Power and Lighting makes electrical components for individual docks or for mega marinas.

The company’s comprehensive line of products covers everything from dock lighting to complete electrical systems.

Here’s a sampling of Eaton’s electrical products for recreational boaters.

Ground Fault Pedestal One of the most recent products Eaton developed for the recreational boating industry in the great lakes and freshwater areas is its ground fault pedestal and monitoring system. Designed to detect fault currents in the AC shore power system, this product monitors the electrical current to detect any stray current. If it detects a problem, the SMART notification feature automatically cuts off the power to reduce the risk of injury or property damage that may result from stray current.

The ground fault monitoring system operates 24 hours a day, and a single red light provides a visual status that this piece of equipment is protecting boaters. It was designed to help prevent electrical shock drownings.

• The ground fault pedestal comes in two options: plastic and stainless steel.

• Utilizes Eaton brand receptacles, breakers, relays, switches, and lighting components, all of which are UL certified • Exceeds NEC code requirements and complies with The Michael Cunningham Act in West Virginia, the Samantha Chipley Act in Kentucky, and Noah Dean & Nate Act in Tennessee. All of these state laws were passed in response to electrical shock drownings.

• Operators are able to differentiate the working, nonworking status via color selectable LEDs.

28 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

&

POWER LIGHTING Hatteras Light Power Pedestal The Hatteras Light is a low-cost solution to shore power needs. It uses the same 360 degree light assembly as the 44-in. tall Lighthouse, but it is only 31 inches high.

Thousands of these pedestals are found not only in marinas, but also around pools, deck areas, boardwalks, and landscape areas. This unit is popular for private docks and smaller slip marinas.

• • • • •

They are available with single, dual or a combination of 30A or 50A receptacles.

A 20A/125V GFI receptacle is available, but not for shore use.

Digital Electronic Metering, with one or two element meters, is available.

The unit has a single or dual phone, cable TV, high-speed Internet connections Single or Dual 1/2” or 3/4” water valve

Dimensions Height: 31” Width: 7.5” Depth: 7.5”

Admiral Stainless Steel Power Pedestal The flagship of Eaton’s pedestal line is the Admiral-SS. This unit provides amperage capabilities up to 500 Amps and voltages of 480/277 three-phase, 208/120 three-phase, 120/240 single-phase, and combinations of these receptacles in one unit to serve nearly any size vessel.

• Heavy 316L stainless steel housing powder coated with a polyester resin • Photocell controlled dual 14 Watt compact fluorescent twist bulb light with amber light that provides 360 degrees of lighting Dimensions: Height: 50.55” Width: 14” Depth: 14”

Newport Harbor Mate Power Pedestal The Newport Harbor Mate is Eaton’s most compact power pedestal with the ability to host a variety of electrical services.

• Heavy resin housing with a two-part polyurethane coating for a UV resistant, long-lasting finish • Designed to mount on a dock box, piling, or stainless steel stand • Circuit breaker protection for all receptacles Dimensions Height: 14.5” Width: 10.5” Depth: 10.4”

greatlakesboating.com | 29

Mariner The Mariner is a lighting bollard that can stand from 1.5 to 4 feet tall and can be used in various applications from marina docks to landscaped areas and beyond. It has a lifetime warranty on its engineered resin housing that will withstand harsh marine and land environments.

• Can be configured with 7- or 9-Watt • Available in custom colors • UL listed Head Assembly Height 7 Watt: 7” 9 Watt/13 Watt: 8” LED: 9”

Mounting Base and Pole 18” - 36”

Lighthouse Power Pedestal This power pedestal is recognized for its practicality and exceptional durability. The all-purpose Lighthouse pedestals have a wide range of features, including: • • • •

Photocell controlled 13 watt, 360° fluorescent light with amber lens for bug reduction Lockable weatherproof doors that protect breakers and receptacles while in use Hose and cable brackets White heavy resin housing with a two-part polyurethane coating for a UV resistant, long lasting finish • “Hingeless” base provides easy access for both installation and maintenance • Backlit faceplate means easy receptacle plug-in at night Dimensions Height: 44” Width: 13.75” Depth: 13.75”

This unit is also available as the Lighthouse-SS Power Pedestal. This pedestal offers the same standard features and options as the original Lighthouse, but is made of high-quality 316L stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance.

Dimensions Height: 44” Width: 9.565” Depth: 9.875”

Firehouse Created as a complete solution for fire and emergency needs at marinas, this pedestal features a fire extinguisher, an alarm strobe light, and an optional life ring. The alarm strobe light and siren are automatically activated when the door is open and/or the optional life ring is removed, alerting those nearby to an emergency, while also discouraging theft.

Dimensions Height: 44” Width: 9.875” Depth: 9.875”

30 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

TAX PROVISIONS

FOR BOATS EXTENDED

I

n an exceptional act of agreement, the recently departed 113th Congress did the right thing for boat owners. It extended some boat sales tax and mortgage interest deductions when filing a 2014 federal income tax return.

The catch is that the boat has to include a sleeping berth, cooking and toilet facilities, and be offered to new owners who paid substantial state sales taxes on a new or used boat purchase last year. If there is a loan taken, mortgage interest paid on the loan may also be be deducted from a person’s federal income taxes, according to the nation’s largest boater’s advocacy group, Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS).

THE SALES TAX DEDUCTION The Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014 continues to offer a federal tax deduction for state sales taxes. Boaters must choose either the state sales tax deduction or state income tax deduction on their federal tax return, but cannot take both.

If the state sales tax deduction is taken, the sales tax on a boat purchase must be

32 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

applied at the same tax rate as the state’s general sales tax. In order to claim the sales tax deduction, tax returns must be itemized. State sales taxes are entered on IRS form Schedule A, line 5b.

THE BOAT LOAN DEDUCTION For those owners with a secured boat loan, mortgage interest paid on the loan may be deducted from their federal income taxes.

Taxpayers may use the home mortgage interest deduction for one second home in addition to their primary home, and must itemize deductions on their returns. A boat is considered a second home for federal tax purposes if it has a galley, an installed head, and a sleeping berth.

During federal budget negotiations last year, some in Congress sought to eliminate this deduction for boat owners while keeping it in place for second home and recreational vehicle owners. BoatUS advocated for a more equitable all-or-nothing approach when applying the deduction, and boaters did not get unfairly singled out.

Some boaters may be unaware of this potential tax benefit because not all lending institutions send borrowers an Internal Revenue Service form 1098, which reports the interest paid. Not receiving the form does not preclude taking the deduction. If form 1098 is not available, boaters should contact their lender for the amount of interest paid and should enter it on line 11 on Schedule A, along with the lender’s tax ID number. If a form 1098 is sent, boaters should simply enter the amount on line 10 of Schedule A.

SORRY, AMT For those who fall under the Alternative Minimum Tax, most deductions are unavailable. Boaters are urged to contact a tax preparer or financial advisor for more information.

For more details, go to www.IRS.gov and download Publication 936 or the Fact Sheets. For state tax deduction information, download Publication 600, which also includes state-by-state tax tables.

ITN | GREAT LAKES

Great Lakes

SKIPPERBUD’S OPENS WISCONSIN SERVICE CENTER SkipperBud’s will open a new full service Boating SuperCenter in Walworth, Wis.,which is on Lake Geneva in southeastern Wisconsin.

The new facility will compliment its existing operations on Lake Geneva, which include new boats on display at the Abbey Resort and Marina, which sits on the Lake Geneva waterfront in Fontana, Wis., and a nearby year-round display showroom.

The new 100,000 sq. ft. facility will service the Geneva Lakes area, which includes Lake Delavan, Lake Como, Lauderdale Lakes, and Lake Geneva. It will be a multi-purpose facility showcasing the dealership’s boats, housing a boat service shop, parts and accessories, and finance departments, and containing a heated winter storage building.

SkipperBud’s Geneva Lakes Boating SuperCenter will display both new and used boats. New boat models include bowriders, deck boats, cruisers, yachts, pontoons jet boats, and ski/surf boats.

The service center provides full service and is managed by Brian Krueger, a Mercury Marine certified technician, as well as an ABYC

certified technician. He leads a team of service people who can perform both in-season repairs, as well as off-season repairs on boats in winter storage.

The new facility offers a heated winter storage space with concrete floors. While in heated storage, boaters can have SkipperBud’s service team perform repairs, maintenance services, and upgrades so that boaters will have a ready boat for springtime. The winter storage building can accommodate boats up to 50 ft.

MICHIGAN LOWERS BUI LEVELS On Dec. 30, 2014, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation lowering the blood-alcohol-content level limit to .08 for operating watercraft, snowmobiles, and off-road vehicles in the state. The limit had been lowered from .10 to .08 for road vehicle use in 2003, but it had remained at .10 for the other activities.

“It is vital to keep our waterways and other recreational areas safe for all Michiganders,”

Snyder said on his website. “This is common-sense legislation. We want people to operate all vehicles responsibly without harming themselves or others.”

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and state law enforcement agencies have stringent penalties for violating BUI laws, and they include large fines, suspension or revocation of boat operator privileges, and jail terms, according to the USCG.

When the Coast Guard determines that an operator is impaired, the voyage may be terminated. The vessel will be brought to mooring by the Coast Guard or a competent and un-intoxicated person on board the recreational vessel. Depending on the circumstances, the Coast Guard may arrest the operator, detain the operator until sober, or turn the operator over to state or local authorities.

BAJA NAMES STELLAR TRADERS AS GREAT LAKES REP Baja Marine, parent company of Pro-Line, Baja, Donzi, and Fountain Boats, has appointed Stellar Traders, LLC, with regional offices located in Algoma, Wis., to be the company’s manufacturer’s representative for the Great Lakes region, encompassing the states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Ohio.

Johnny Walker, Baja Marine’s CEO, said this appointment will expand the company’s reach into a crucial market for its popular fishing, family, and high performance boats.

“Boaters throughout the Great Lakes region will appreciate our quality boat brands, which provide safe and affordable fun for families, fishermen, and performance enthusiasts on inland lakes and rivers large and small. Our recent decision to re-introduce the ‘retro’ Donzi 34 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

Classic line was aimed at boaters in this area in particular,” Walker said. “We are delighted to have Stellar Traders with its broad local reach and expertise to help us in better serving this key region.”

“We are looking forward to giving fishing enthusiasts, pleasure boaters and sportsmen in this large and important market the benefit of Baja Marine’s advanced construction techniques and a wider range of choices and enhanced options in available equipment and boat layouts,” said Jake Maring, one of the Principals of Stellar Traders LLC, who is based in the Algoma regional office.

ITN | GREAT LAKES

DIVERS FIND TWO 19TH CENTURY BOATS IN LAKE ONTARIO A team of New York shipwreck hunters have located the wrecks of two 19th-century canal boats on the bottom of Lake Ontario, according to a Jan. 22, 2015 news story on www.inquisitr.com.

Three members of the Rochester team—Jim Kennard, Roger Pawlowski, and Roland Stevens—discovered the sunken boats last year by using side-scan sonar on the lake’s eastern end. One of the canal boats is 65 feet long, while the other is 78 feet long. The sunken boats were discovered a few miles apart between Oswego and Sacket Harbor, reports MSN.com.

The identification of the wrecks has not yet been determined, although Kennard, Pawlowski, and Stevens believe they were built in the mid-1800s, when the Erie Canal was widened to allow the passage of larger boats.

when they sank. Both boats had damage that indicates that the cargo that they were carrying most likely shifted during fast-changing weather conditions that are common on Lake Ontario.

The team went through the records for more than 600 Lake Ontario shipwrecks, but was unable to discover a match to either of the sunken vessels.

Kennard added that the vessels were most likely older boats. He figures that their owners were attempting to get one more voyage out of them hauling cargo before retiring them.

Kennard said the two shallow-draft boats were most likely being towed by steamboats

“They took a chance. It didn’t work,” Kennard said.

OHIO ANNOUNCES BOATING ACCESS FUNDS The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) awarded nearly $2.9 million in grants for boating access facility projects to improve public access to Ohio waterways.

Additionally, $364,689 in grants were awarded to 34 community boating safety education programs. Funding for the grants comes from Ohio’s Waterways Safety Fund.

Sixteen boating facility design and construction projects will be funded through the Cooperative Boating Facility Grant Program. Six projects will provide enhanced recreational opportunities for users of motorized watercraft. Ten of the projects will help support the state’s fastest growing boating opportunities by improving waterway access for non-motorized boats, such as kayaks and canoes.

The 34 Boating Safety Education Grants awarded for 2015 range from $1,431 to $25,429. The ODNR Division of Watercraft strives to keep boaters on Ohio’s waters safe by providing funding assistance

to local communities and nonprofit organizations through this competitive grant program. Last year, 22 community organizations shared more than $308,000 to help fund community boating safety education programs.

Ohio law requires any person born on or after Jan. 1, 1982, to be able to show proof they have successfully completed an approved boating safety education course if they operate any powered watercraft greater than 10 horsepower. Many community boating safety education programs also focus on boating skills development and basic water safety.

The Waterways Safety Fund consists of a portion of the state motor fuels tax, watercraft registration and titling fees, and funding from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Visit www.watercraft.ohiodnr.gov/grants, for a list of grant recipients and project descriptions.

CMU IDENTIFIES SPREAD OF INVASIVE SPECIES Central Michigan University’s Institute for Great Lakes Research (IGLR), which detects, tracks, and maps the spread of invasive species, has discovered previously unknown locations of faucet snails, small invaders that threaten waterfowl,in the coastal wetlands ecosystem of he Great Lakes.

“Preserving and restoring coastal wetlands and preventing their further destruction by the spread of invasive species such as the faucet snail is critical to ecosystem integrity,” said Donald Uzarski, IGLR director and CMU professor of biology.

“We are entering the fifth year of a

five-year, basin-wide project that covers 10,000 miles of shoreline in the U.S. and Canada, collecting data on every aspect of Great Lakes coastal wetlands with the goal of measuring ecosystem health.”

Uzarski is the administrator of a $10 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. The grant allows IGLR researchers to collect chemical, physical, and biological data from all Great Lakes basin coastal wetlands.

unknown locations of faucet snails (Bithynia tentaculata) in the Great Lakes.

Faucet snails were introduced to the Great Lakes in the 1870s and are found along rocky shorelines and on river and lake bottoms. They can grow up to ½ inch in length. They spread by attaching themselves to aquatic plants, boats, anchors, and other recreational equipment. They can survive for days out of the water because they can close their shells. This makes it nearly impossible to eradicate these infestations.

These efforts recently yielded the discovery and addition of previously

greatlakesboating.com | 35

ITN | GREAT LAKES

Great Lakes

GREAT LAKES WATER LEVELS ON THE RISE By the end of 2014, water levels on all of the Great Lakes were above normal for the first time in 15 years, according to reports from Detroit Office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL).

All of the lakes were above their 2013 levels last summer except for Lake Ontario. For the first time since 1998, water levels of Lake Superior, the largest of the five Great Lakes, were above their monthly average levels. At the same time, water levels on Lake MichiganHuron, which are two lakes treated as one for hydrological purposes, saw the second straight year of seasonal rise. In August 2014, Lake Michigan-Huron reached its highest level (578.99 ft.) in 15 years.

The 3.2 feet rise in water levels from a record low in January 2013 to

December 2014 was about 3.2 feet, which tied a record for the largest increase in any two-year period.

Drew Gronewald, a research hydologist at GLERL, said the major reason for this surge in water levels is record rainfall and runoff in the Great Lakes basin.

Precipitation has been above average for most lake basins every month of 2014. The seasonal rise in water levels was above average for the upper Great Lakes (Superior, Michigan, and Huron) in both 2013 and 2014. Lake Superior water levels have been above their average monthly means since April 2014, which marks the first time this has occurred since 1998.

USDA ANNOUNCES GRANTS TO REDUCE FARM RUNOFF Agriculture Sec. Tom Vilsack announced in January the grant recipients for a newly created program that targets farm conservation efforts in priority regions across the country. The goal of these grants is to improve the quality of soil, water, and fish and wildlife habitat by reducing farm runoff.

The Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) is funding 115 projects across the country. The federal program

is investing more than $370 million, and because each project requires at least a 1-to-1 match, this brings the total investment to more than $740 million annually.

RCPP will fund more than 20 projects in the eight Great Lakes states, including one in Michigan’s Saginaw Bay watershed and another in the Western Lake Erie watershed.

Each of the projects in the Great Lakes region helps reduce farm runoff—a vexing problem

that contributes to harmful algal blooms, beach closings, and unsafe drinking water.

The RCPP was created by the 2014 Farm Bill and is a combination of four former conservation programs. Funding for the Great Lakes region is targeted at reducing nutrient and sediment runoff from agricultural land as a way to improve habitat for fish and wildlife.

USFWS FINDS ASIAN CARP IN CAWS Silver carp DNA has been found in the Chicago Area Waterways Systems (CAWS), according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), The federal agency collected eDNA samples of CAWS in October 2014, and released their findings in January 2015. The sampling data show the presence of bighead or silver carp DNA throughout CAWS, including close to the Chicago River lock in downtown Chicago, which is less than one block from Lake Michigan.

A committee of key, diverse regional stakeholders known as the “Chicago Area Waterway System Advisory Committee” has been formed with a goal to reach consensus on a set of recommendations that it will present to elected and appointed local, state, and federal officials and the public on short-and long-term measures to prevent Asian carp and other aquatic invasive species from moving between

36 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

the Mississippi River and Great Lakes basins through the CAWS. The Advisory Committee is working toward a deadline of Dec. 15, 2015.

The committee recommended the follow actions to reduce the risk of invasive species moving between these two great waters: • Designing a new engineered channel to be constructed in the approach to the Brandon Road lock, a potentially effective location for reducing one-way movement of species towards the Great Lakes.

• Evaluating, designing, and engineering control technologies to deploy in the approach channel and the Brandon Road lock structure.

• Undertaking research to further evaluate reconfiguring locks as a means to control aquatic invasive species while maintaining the health of native aquatic life and habitat.

LEARN ABOUT THE FISH IN YOUR AREA, WHERE TO FIND THEM AND TIPS TO HELP YOU CATCH ’EM. IT’S ALL HERE.

ITN | FISHING

Fishing

LAKE STURGEON RECOVERY CONTINUES A recent lake sturgeon population study in Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River indicates a slow, steady sturgeon population recovery owing to cleaner water, effective fishing regulations, and vigilant enforcement, according to the Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR). This success story may one day allow anglers to catch 100-pound sturgeon.

“This strategy has worked very well,” said Henry Drewes, northwest region fisheries manager with the Minnesota DNR. “The fact that the lake sturgeon population has continued to expand in numbers, as well as in size and age distribution, under ever-increasing angling pressure is credit to those who worked together to bring about this recovery.”

There are an estimated 92,000 lake sturgeon longer than 40 inches in the system, which compares to an estimated 59,000 fish in 2004 and 17,000 in 1989.

The outlook for lake sturgeon hasn’t always been so positive. Overharvesting through the late 1800s and early 1900s decimated the lake sturgeon population in Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River. Despite reduced harvests, poor water quality played a major role in limiting sturgeon recovery.

Water-quality improvements directly linked to clean water regulations beginning in the 1960s set the stage for the restoration of this unique fish. Better water quality in the Rainy River initiated a dramatic response in lake sturgeon reproduction and survival, which became the basis for population recovery.

“The recovery of the Rainy River is one of the best examples of how clean water regulation positively influenced angler opportunities in Minnesota,” Drewes said.

SALMON LIMIT REMAINS AT FIVE FOR MICHIGAN ANGLERS Michigan anglers may only catch five salmon a day once the 2015 fishing season opens. This is the same number as in 2014, and state fisheries officials are looking for new ways to determine what the daily limit should be, according to an article by Howard Meyerson on the blog page of mlive.com/ outdoors_impact.

At present, the daily limit is determined by the success of charter anglers (three fish or more per outing) and the catch rate per angler. The new method of deciding to either raise or lower the daily limit would be based on the volume of forage in the lake,

according to Todd Kalish, Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources’ Lake Michigan basin coordinator.

salmon were caught, said Tracy Kolb fisheries biologist at the DNR.

Kalish said that chinook salmon feed mainly on alewives, and the number of alewives on Lake Michigan remains low. Higher bag limits allow alewive populations to be conserved by getting more of the predators out of the lake.

Preliminary observations on the 2014 class of alewives indicate that it was not strong, according to Randy Clarmunt, fisheries research biologist at the DNR’s Charleston Fisheries Search Station. “There are definitely fewer fish in the lake, and the million dollar question is why,” Clarmunt said.

The recreational harvest of chinook salmon in 2014 was around 73,000, which was a slight increase over 2013, but a significant drop-off from 2012, when 186,000 chinook

“The question is whether the fishery is crashing or declining substantially because of too few alewives or because of stocking cuts and having fewer fish,” Clarmunt said.

PENNSYLVANIA EXPANDS YOUTH FISHING DAYS The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is expanding its Mentored Youth Trout Days program to include all trout waters stocked by the PFBC and managed under Commonwealth inland regulations. The move comes in response to angler requests for more fishing opportunities.

mentored youth days, but knows that not all will be stocked due to weather conditions, time constraints, and scheduling logistics.

The first Mentored Youth Trout Day will be March 28, the Saturday before the regional opening day of trout season in 18 south central and southeast counties. The second one will be held on April 11, the Saturday before the statewide opening day of trout season. Mentors and children can each keep two trout, which must be at least seven inches long.

To get an updated list of the waters stocked with trout, anglers should visit: http://fish and boat.com/stocked.htm.

Each year, the PFBC stocks approximately 530 streams and 120 lakes across the Commonwealth with nearly 3.2 million adult trout. Each trout weighs on average about one-half pound and is 11 inches in length. The PFBC expects to stock a majority of the trout waters in advance of the

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© PA Fish and Boat Commission

The Mentored Youth Trout Day was launched in 2013 as a pilot program on 12 waters. Its current expansion requires youth anglers to obtain a free PFBC-issued permit or a voluntary youth fishing license.

ITN | FISHING

FISH ART CONTEST ENTRIES DUE MARCH 31 The 17th annual Wildlife Forever State-Fish Art Contest is now accepting entries from kids in Grades K-12.

To enter, young artists must create an original illustration of their chosen state-fish. In addition, they should also submit a personal one-page written essay, story, or poem on its behavior, habitat, and conservation needs.

Entries must be postmarked

by March 31, 2015. Judging will be held in April, and the winners will announced May 8, 2015.

Entries are categorized in four grade levels: K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12. Educators nationwide can utilize Fish On!, the free, full-color State-Fish Art Lesson Plan, which combines the disciplines of science and art.

This contest is open to all students, and the first-place winning state artists, written word winners, and their families, will be invited to attend the EXPO that is held in conjunction with the Forrest L. Wood Cup bass world championship on Aug. 21-22 in Hot Springs, Ark.

Every attending winner will be recognized personally on stage and will receive awards, fishing gear, and prizes. National Art winners, including the Best of Show and Art of Conservation, will also be announced. In addition, all winning art and written words will receive national recognition on the State-Fish Art website and be displayed on the “Wall of Honor” at the EXPO. For more information, visit www.statefishart.org. for complete details and to download the free Fish On! Lesson Plan or request it on a free CD.

MUSKY FISHING CHALLENGE Muskies Inc. Chapter 64 will present the Beast of the East Musky Fly Fishing Challenge on approximately 50 miles of the Allegheny River from the Kinzua Dam to Tionesta in Northwest Pennsylvania. This fly gear only tournament is scheduled for April 10 and 11, 2015.

The Nittany Valley Musky Alliance, Muskies Inc. Chapter 64 is a non-profit organization whose goal is to promote and improve musky angling in Central Pennsylvania. The organization also supports education, awareness, and musky stocking programs in the region.

Alliance member Corey Siple said, “Fly anglers targeting muskies use lures 6 to 10 inches in length with 10 weight fly rods.” He added that the lures used to fool muskies are usually in the form of large streamers or oversized

poppers. That’s why the Challenge requires only fly gear.

Siple said the Musky Fishing Challenge is a new and exciting event that will potentially draw musky anglers from as far away as Wisconsin. Hopefully this event will also garner attention from local fly anglers and bring deserved attention to these magnificent fish lurking in the waters of Northwest Pennsylvania.

Entrants in the Beast of the East Fly Fishing Challenge must register by April 1. To receive an entry packet with more information, email nvmainc@gmail.com. Interested parties can also find more information on this event by going to Facebook and visiting either the Nittany Valley Musky Alliance, Muskies Inc. Chapter 64, or the “Beast of the East” Musky Fly Fishing Challenge.

NEW REPORT RECOMMENDS EATING GREAT LAKES FISH Furthering its commitment to protecting and preserving the Great Lakes, Shedd Aquarium commissioned a report to assess the sustainability of Great Lakes fisheries.

Leveraging tools from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program, research partners at the University of Michigan studied five fish species in the Great Lakes waterways, finding that most support culinary conservation.

Shedd’s Right Bite program is the leading sustainable seafood initiative in the Midwest, working with individuals, families, culinary professionals and researchers to increase the availability of sustainable seafood in Chicago’s

marketplace. The study resulted in the following Right Bite consumer recommendations:

• Rainbow smelt: Best Choice • Yello perch: Good Alternative • Lake trout: Good Alternative • Lake whitefish: Good Alternative • Walleye: Good Alternative

The study used Seafood Watch’s external assessment model to determine each individual species’ sustainability rating based on location, population size, rehabilitation efforts and local harvesting rates and practices throughout the basin. Researchers learned that as a whole,

the majority of individual populations studied are well-managed and abundant, resulting in a recommendation from Shedd.

Shedd Aquarium’s Right Bite program aims to address issues of overfishing and aquatic health. Shedd partnered with various restaurants through the Right Bite program to help make an impact, while also empowering consumers to identify and purchase sustainable seafood options.

For more information about Shedd’s Great Lakes conservation initiative, visit www.sheddaquarium.org/GreatLakes.

greatlakesboating.com | 39

Marina

ITN | MARINA

PLANS FOR PLATTSBURGH MARINA MOVE AHEAD The Plattsburgh (N.Y.) City Council voted in early January to approve a new public-private marina next to the existing Plattsburgh Boat Basin, according to a Jan. 10 article by Joe LoTempilio on the website: www.pressrepublican.com.

Almost a year to the date from when the city councilors rejected two proposals for operating the marina, one from Navtours USA and one from Plattsburgh Boat Basin, the city is now partnering with Navtours USA, which has a boat rental operation on Lake Champlain, to manage/operate the new marina for the city.

Plattsburgh Mayor Jim Calnon said the new development is designed to enhance the waterfront area and downtown corridor.

Navtours USA will operate the marina during the established boating season from May 15 to Oct. 4 and will get a reduced price on 12 of the slips, which it will use for docking boats that it will rent out. Another six of the 34 slips will will be available for transient boaters, most notably workers commuting from Canada.

Calnon said the new marina will not compete with the next-door neighbor Plattsburgh Boat Basin.

He added that the new marina will not have a service center, a fuel dock, or a restaurant. Boaters looking for these services can visit the Boat Basin.

The city will build 34 new docks at Dock Street Landing that will be able to accommodate boats up to 40 feet long. In addition, there will be 25 moorings. Rent will be $82 per lineal foot of boat length.

MENTOR MARINA [OHIO] NO MORE The Mentor City Council has generally reached a consensus that it is not financially feasible for the city to operate a marina, according to a January article by Betsy Scott on the website: www.newsherald.com/general-news. The current dilemma facing the council is what to do with the existing marina.

The report indicated that marina maintenance and improvements over the next few years could reach more than $27 million. The marina had a net operating loss of $524,390 during the past five years— counting debt on the purchase price and investments made since then—despite being at full capacity.

Scott reported that in late 2014, the city received a report on the marina’s condition, the regional market, the marina’s place within the market, and cost estimates for required maintenance and improvements.

The 500-slip marina is very popular with boaters, but does not generate enough profits to pay for improvements needed for an aging infrastructure. The city’s Lagoons Committee told the city council to look at other options.

There are only two: creating public parkland or opening it to private development.

The city is hiring a real estate research firm to determine what value can be put on the property so the city can recover its financial investment and identifying a use of the property that would be compatible with maintaining the nature preserve, which the city will always maintain.

PENFIELD [N.Y.] APPROVES MARINA EXPANSION The Penfield Town Board approved in January a development project that would nearly double the Southpoint Marina on the south end of Irondequoit Bay, according to an article by Meaghan W. McDermott in the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle. The project had been held up for several years over concerns that its construction would disrupt a bald eagle’s nest.

Rochester Waterfront Properties LLC, a development company owned by the Daniele family, which owns the marina and nearby restaurants, will build 176 new slips at their Southpoint Marina, which currently has 186 slips. The developers will also build a 150-seat restaurant overlooking Irondequoit Bay, a private pool for marina members, and a clubhouse with bathrooms, showers, and recreational areas.

The project was stalled for nearly six years in part due to the presence of a legally protected bald eagle’s nest in a corner of the 40 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

bay, on wooded land owned by the Danieles. At issue was whether the proposed expansion would disturb the eagles by having constructions inside a 660-foot buffer zone required around eagle nests.

To advance the project, the developers conducted a full environmental study of their proposal, which was sent to and accepted by the town board of Penfield in Nov. 2014 and approved in Jan. 2015. Besides the eagle’s nest, the study addressed other environmental concerns related to water quality, aquatic creatures, traffic on Empire Boulevard and the project’s impact on shoreline wetlands.

At press deadline, construction on the clubhouse had begun, and the new docks will be available to rent in April, according to Danny Daniele.

ITN | MARINA

WAUKEGAN HARBOR IS ATTRACTIVE OFFERING Waukegan Harbor is conveniently located between Chicago and Milwaukee, and the beautiful Illinois harbor offers a multitude of options for boaters’ needs.

Waukegan Harbor is divided into two basins, North and South. The South Basin has both stationary and floating docks with accommodations for vessels up to 65 feet long.

The North Harbor features fixed concrete piers and can accommodate vessels up to 150 feet in length.

Flags Great America, shop at Gurnee Mills, or just relax at the attractive public beach.

For anglers, Waukegan Harbor is paradise. Just offshore, fishermen will encounter some of the best fishing Lake Michigan has to offer with all varieties of trout, salmon, and perch. pumpout service, as well as competitive fuel prices. And both basins offers easy access to restrooms and laundry facilities.

There is four point tie-up on all docks, along with satellite TV hookup, potable water, and 30

Whether mooring for the season or staying for a weekend, boaters will find plenty of things to do in and around Waukegan, including

or 50 amp electrical service. Along with utilities, Waukegan Harbor includes a dock box and newly installed Wi-Fi service in the rental price.

A fuel dock inside the South Basin offers free

live music concerts, two live theaters, and numerous art galleries. In addition, boaters can catch a top-rated live show at the historic Genesee Theatre, enjoy the thrill rides at Six

As far as dining opportunities, visitors can access everything from hot dogs, delicatessen fare, and ice cream to upscale dining at the Lakeside Terrace at SiVer Place. Additionally, the Waukegan Yacht Club opens its dining area to the public for lunch.

Boaters looking for a great place to stay on Lake Michigan need look no further than Waukegan Harbor.

TORONTO YACHT CLUB MAY BE SAVED The owners of Toronto Island Marina said they are willing to assume the debts of the nearby floundering Island Yacht Club (IYC), which was built decades ago as a refuge from discrimination, and manage its day-to-day operations, according to a January article by Mike Adler in the North York Mirror.

Post WWII, Jewish boaters were denied membership in local yacht clubs, so they opened their own yacht club on the Toronto islands in 1951. Membership fluctuated over the years, but in 2004, a fire destroyed its clubhouse.

The IYC built a new clubhouse in 2006, but William Tassel, its commodore, told Toronto city council’s executive committee that its members haven’t returned. The club has 120 slips, but only 41 voting members and its cash flow is “perilously constrained,” said Kassel.

The club “operates at a significant deficit” and owes the city $251,000 in rent and property tax—money the city is unlikely to get if IYC were to fall into receivership, a city report says.

On Dec. 5, a city committee approved an arrangement with the principal owners of the Toronto Island Marina, who are prepared to repay IYC’s debts and manage its day-to-day operations..

“We’re assuming all risks,” said Bill Duron, who with two other owners of the marina, Gary Lovas and Carl Lovas, will deal with the city on IYC’s behalf.

The marina owners are prepared to invest $1 million at the club, whose docks “are in terrible disrepair” and are too short for today’s boats, Duron said.

ROGERS CITY MARINA EXPLORES PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP Hefele came up with an alternative proposal, according to a January article by Jordan Travis on the Alpena News website: www. thealpenanews.com.

Late last year, members of the Rogers City Council considered a proposal from a private management firm that called for turning over the operation of the city marina to a private contractor. As the council was considering this option, City Manager Joe

Instead of hiring a private contractor, Hefele thought it would be better to form a public-private partnership to run the marina.

Under his arrangement, the city would continue to operate the marina, while the private company (Northern Michigan Marine Management Services) would staff it and provide additional services.

In addition to staffing, the marina management company would provide repair services, onand off-site boat storage, and a boat lift. “There would be a straight dollar amount that we would pay them to handle staffing,” Hefele said.

At press deadline, Hefele had presented his proposal to the harbor advisory committee, to a public hearing on Feb. 3, and hoped to have a contract before the city council for their Feb. 17 meeting. If approved, it will mean that boaters visiting the marina will have more services at their disposal.

greatlakesboating.com | 41

National

ITN | NATIONAL

WIN $10,000 IN LIFE JACKET DESIGN COMPETITION The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is now accepting entries for the 2015 Innovations in Life Jacket Design Competition. At stake is a first place prize of $10,000 for the best new design. Boaters, arm chair inventors, design, engineering or high school students have until the April 15 deadline to submit their design to BoatUS.org/design.

Five judges will review the entries, looking for the the newest technologies and design ideas for the next generation of these life-saving devices. In addition to the BoatUS Foundation, the other sponsors are the Personal Floatation Device Manufacturers Association and the National Marine Manufacturers Association.

The goal is to find the best new life jacket ideas based on four criteria: wearability, reliability, cost, and innovation. The winners will be announced in September at the International Boat Builders Exposition and Conference, which will take place in Louisville, Ky.

The five judges for the design competition are: Lili Colby, co-owner of MTI Adventurewear, a paddlesport life jacket manufacturer; Chris Stec, chief operating officer of the American Canoe Association; Chuck Hawley, a marine industry consultant and former “West Marine Advisor” with 40,000 miles of open ocean sailing experience on both coasts; Joe Fogarty, vice president at Image Base, a business communications company in Chicago that has made videos for NMMA’s Discover Boating campaign; and Frank Solazzo, a team leader with Leland Limited, which supplies life jacket manufacturers with the small, high pressure gas-filled cylinders used for inflatable life jackets.

BEWARE E15 AT N.C. GAS STATIONS Sheetz Convenience Stores, Altoona, Pa., announced on Jan. 21 that it would offer E15 fuel, i.e., gas containing up to 15% ethanol, at 60 of their North Carolina locations beginning in early 2015. Boat Owners Association of the United States (BoatUS) believes this could be a problem for recreational boaters, motorists, and many other users of gasoline-powered equipment and vehicles.

There currently are no marine engines warrantied to run on E15 and according

to most boat engine manufacturers, any damage due to the use of this higher ethanol blend fuel will void the warranty. In the U.S., nine out of every 10 boaters own a trailerable boat that is most often filled up at a roadside gas station, not at a marina gas dock. While any gasoline with greater than 10% ethanol (E10) is prohibited for use with recreational boat engines, it’s a common practice among trailer boaters to fill the tow vehicle first, then simply pull the boat up to the pump and insert the same gas pump

nozzle into the boat’s fuel tank. Because there is only a small, inadequate warning label on the pump pointing to the prohibited uses of E15, boaters may disregard it and fill up with E15.

BoatUS, which has nearly 20,000 members in North Carolina, will continue to lobby Congress to reform the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS)—a law which forces these higher blends and less compatible fuels onto the public.

BASS PRO GROUP ACQUIRES RANGER BOATS Bass Pro Group, LLC, which owns Bass Pro Shops, has acquired Fishing Holdings, LLC, a manufacturer of fishing boats that include Ranger Boats and the Stratos and Triton boat brands from Platinum Equity, a global firm specializing in mergers and acquisitions.

Platinum Equity, a venture capital firm, acquired the Stratos and Ranger Boat lines in 2009 from Genmar Holdings, Inc. It added the Triton boat line in July 2010 from Brunswick Corp. The three lines were merged to form the Fishing Holdings, LLC, brand name in Flippin, Ark. “Nearly five years ago we pledged to provide the resources and support necessary to help the company grow and evolve, while respecting the heritage and deep roots in fishing that make it so special,” said Platinum Equity Partner Louis Samson. “We achieved our goals and I am very proud of all that has been accomplished during our stewardship.”

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Randy Hopper, president of Fishing Holdings, said, “We’re very fortunate to be partnering with an organization with so much understanding of the industry and our brands. This new alliance will provide synergies that will strengthen our independent dealer base and ensure our continued focus on fishing.”

Johnny Morris, founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops, said, “We’re excited about the association with these iconic brands. Ranger Boats founder Forrest Wood has been a longtime friend and someone who has made a tremendous impact on our industry. We look forward to building on such a rich history.”

Morris added that Fishing Holdings will continue to operate from its Flippin, Ark. headquarters under existing management.

ITN | NATIONAL

BILL WOULD PROTECT FISHING RIGHTS ON FEDERAL LAND Rep. Dan Benishek (R-MI) introduced a bill into the House of Representatives on Jan. 27, 2015, that would would protect every American’s right to access federal lands for hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting activities.

In a press release announcing the “Recreational Fishing and Hunting Heritage and Opportunities Act,” Benishek said his legislation would create an “open until closed” policy for sportsmen’s use of federal land and would block threats

from interest groups that seek to limit hunting, fishing, and shooting on America’s federal lands.

The proposed legislation would limit these threats by directing the federal land managers at the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to facilitate access for hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting activities on federal lands.

said that fishing and hunting is a normal part of life in the Upper Peninsula.

“Like so many people in Northern Michigan, I grew up bird and deer hunting in the fall months and ice fishing during the winter. It is so important to pass on these traditions to future generations of sportsmen and to ensure that responsible access to federal land is available,” said Benishek.

Rep. Benishek, a lifelong sportsman and resident of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula,

CHAPARRAL BOATS ANNOUNCES BOAT GIVEAWAY As part of its 50th Anniversary celebration, Chaparral Boats is giving away a 203 VR Vortex jet boat and trailer with a retail value of $34,456.

website. The Vortex Giveaway is open to residents of the contiguous 48 states.

Participants must be 21 years of age to enter.

Limited to one entry per person.

“We thought giving away one of our newest and most exciting models would be a great way to celebrate Chaparral’s Golden Anniversary,” said Jim Lane, president of Marine Products Corp., which manufactures Chapparal boats. “The Vortex line is enjoying runaway sales at early season boat shows. We wanted to go big and go exciting.”

The promotion is already attracting tremendous interest with an avalanche of participation at boat shows and via the company’s

Chaparral, along with jet drivetrain supplier BRP Rotax, is sponsoring the Giveaway. The promotion, which launched Jan. 9, will conclude when the winner is selected by a random drawing at Chaparral’s headquarters in Nashville, Ga. on or about Aug. 5, 2015.

Anyone interested in registering can sign up and view full contest rules at Chaparralboats.com. Entrants can also visit their local Chaparral dealer or file a mail-in entry directly to the Chaparral factory.

SECOND BIKE AND BOAT TOUR PLANNED Following a successful event in 2013, the organizers of the Boaterz n’ Bikerz Hull of a Tour2 announced their second outing called The Freedom Ride, which will take place May 15-23.

D.C., on May 23. Jim Kreuger, Regal Marine regional sales manager, is the road captain taking participants along scenic byways and highways to stops at select Freedom Boat Clubs and historical venues.

The Freedom Ride will be a nine-day guided motorcycle and boating trip originating in Sarasota, Fla. and concluding in Washington, D.C. The tour will launch on May 15 from the Freedom Boat Club’s Marina Jack location in Sarasota, Fla., and conclude with the Rolling Thunder motorcycle rally in Washington,

Key stops along the way include St. Augustine, Fla.; Charleston, S.C.; Cape Hatteras, N.C.; Williamsburg, Va.; Gettysburg and York, Pa.; and Annapolis, Md. The Rolling Thunder rally is one of the largest annual motorcycle rallies in the world, traveling from the Pentagon to the National

Mall and then to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The rally honors prisoners of war and those lost in action.

“Our 2013 ride from Destin, Fla., to San Diego, Calif., was fantastic—we had such an amazing time and met so many folks who shared our love for boating and motorcycling,” said Wanda Kenton Smith, chief marketing officer Freedom Boat Club, owner of Kenton Smith Marketing, and event organizer. “Those who rode the first time around haven’t stopped talking about a second trip ... so we’re gearing for another run.”

greatlakesboating.com | 43

ITN | SAILING

Sailing

2014 MARITIME HEROES AWARD WINNERS Old Pulteney Single Malt Scotch Whisky and US Sailing, along with consumers nationwide, have chosen the recipients of the 2014 Maritime Heroes Award. This year’s winners, Richard Ramos and Aleef Mahmud of Medford, Mass., were honored at a gala event on Jan. 22, at the US Sailing National Sailing Programs Symposium (NSPS) in New Orleans, La. Richard Ramos never thought he would sail again following a diving accident that left him with a disabling spinal cord injury. After meeting Aleef, an engineer from RIT through Community Boating, Inc., the two created an apparatus that would allow Richard and others with similar injuries to pursue their marine passions.

According to Aleef, the system works via a secured seat mounted on a circular track to allow rotation, which allows the user to control the tiller of the boat through a bi-directional crank and a series of lines that are controlled by the sailor.

“What Richard and Aleef have accomplished embodies our definition of the 2014 Maritime Hero. They have restored hope in the lives of many sailing enthusiasts and we are honored to present them with the award for their outstanding contributions,” said Pat Graney, President of International Beverage.

US SAILING’S ROLEX YACHTSMAN AND YACHTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR Terry Hutchinson of Annapolis, Md., and Stephanie Roble of East Troy, Wis., were named US Sailing’s 2014 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtswoman of the Year.

In 2014, Terry Hutchinson was atop the leaderboard at major regattas more times than any other American sailor. The 2014 award is Hutchinson’s second; he previously earned the honor in 2008 following his win of the TP52 World Championship.

The 46-year-old father of three is a native of Annapolis. He learned to sail at age three in a Dyer Dhow that was attached by a line

to his parent’s Concordia yawl. Going back and forth on the end of that line set him on a course to becoming a college star at Old Dominion University (Norfolk, Va.) where he earned Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association (ICSA) All-American honors four times (1987, ‘88, ‘89, ‘90) and was twice recognized as College Sailor of the Year (’89 and ’90).

Stephanie Roble was recognized by the selection panel for her versatility; her accomplishments as a skipper and as a crew; and her competitive successes on a variety of platforms, sailing against both men and women. Based on her 2014 match racing

results, she begins the New Year as the top American match racer, with a ranking of number three in the world.

The 25-year-old Roble began her sailing career in dinghies and scows from Lake Beulah Yacht Club in her hometown of East Troy. She twice earned ICSA All-American Honors (2010, 2011) while competing for Old Dominion University (Norfolk, Va.) from which she graduated in 2011. Roble has made the transition to match racing with a goal of winning the Women’s Match Racing World Championship while continuing to compete in the Melges 20, J/70 and Etchells classes.

PREMIERE SAILING LEAGUE - A NEW WAY OF RACING…AND THINKING The new Premiere Sailing League, America, promises to change the way people think about amateur sailing in the U.S. The series kicks off this August and will be comprised of four district qualifying regattas that divide 72 sailing club teams by region (North-Chicago; South-New Orleans; East-Newport; West-San Francisco) to compete for top ranking. The best four teams from each district then compete head-to-head in the Premiere Sailing League National Championships to be held in Annapolis, Md., during the United States Sailboat Show in October.

“The Premiere Sailing League (PSL) is the first event of its kind in the U.S.,” said PSL’s Director and Founder Benjamin A. Klatzka, an avid sailor and successful businessman who recently moved from Germany to Newport, R.I. to pursue his dream of bringing the sailing league format to the public. “It is structured after the enormously successful sailing leagues pioneered in Germany and 44 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

Denmark (www.sailing-championsleague.com), with the objective of strengthening community and camaraderie within the sport of sailing by providing an integrated platform that brings sailing clubs together to compete at both a local and national level.”

Each of the Premiere Sailing League teams will be made up of four sailors representing yacht clubs and sailing organizations. Sailing will be conducted in fun, easy-to-sail J/70s.

Klatzka will announce a Warm up/Test Run Event at the beginning of the season for prospective competitors, team and event sponsors, and organizers for host venues.

For more information, go to www.premieresailingleague.com or contact Benjamin Klatzka at 617-480-8775, info@premieresailingleague.com.

ITN | SAILING

SUMMER CAMPS FOR TEENS ABOARD A TALL SHIP This spring, the first ocean-going full-rigged ship to be built in America in more than a century will begin sailing, and teens will board in July and August for thrilling oneand two-week Education at Sea camps. The 200-foot Sailing School Vessel (SSV) Oliver Hazard Perry, hailing from Newport, R.I., has a 500-ton steel hull and a 130-foot tall rig with square sails on all three masts. She will have a captain, officers, a cook, an engineer and a dozen other professional crew members, but the balance of her crew will be none other than the students themselves.

Registration for camp, which is on a first-come, first-serve basis, is now open to the public.

Camp Details: Tentative schedule and itinerary (subject to change):

Boston, MA – Newport, RI Ages: 15-18 years (High School) August 2 - 15, 2015 High School 2-week Program Newport, RI – Boston, MA Ages: 15-18 years (High School) August 16 - 22, 2015 Middle School 1-week Program Boston, MA – Newport, RI Ages: 12-15 years (Middle School) July 5 - July 18, 2015 Middle School 2-week Program Newport, RI – Portland, ME Ages: 12-15 years (Middle School) July 26 - August 1, 2015 High School 1-week Program: Almost 50% full!

$3,000 for two weeks, which includes tuition and all meals.

Call 401-841-0080 or visit www.ohpri.org/ teen-summer-camp for information and a reservation form.

VOLVO OCEAN RACE STOPS IN NEWPORT, R.I. SCA, a leading global hygiene and forest products company, will be the Official Sustainability and Sustainability Education Sponsor of the North American Volvo Ocean Race Stopover in Newport, R.I. The stopover is scheduled for May 5-17, and is the only North American port in the Volvo Ocean Race’s nine-month voyage around the world.

SCA is the sponsor of Team SCA, the first all-female team to sale the race in more than a decade.

As part of the partnership, and in honor of Team SCA’s magenta boat, SCA will host an SCA Magenta Music Night, which will include an evening of live music and activities for Newport Race Village visitors.

Additional details about the concert will be announced closer to May.

SCA’s sponsorship also extends to support for educational programs to help raise awareness about sustainable environmental practices.

For example, as part of The Exploration Zone in the Newport Race Village, SCA will host a sustainable forest exhibit to teach young children about the lifecycle of forest environments.

The competing teams will arrive at the Newport Stopover in May after completing their fifth leg of the Volvo Ocean Race. Over the 12-day stopover in Fort Adams State Park, guests will enjoy sponsored exhibits, educational activities, live entertainment, and have the opportunity to see the Volvo Ocean Race teams in action through the In-Port and Pro-Am races and at the leg start to Lisbon.

CHANGES FOR 2015 BELL’S BEER BAYVIEW MACKINAC RACE Significant changes have been made to the 91st 2015 Bell’s Beer Bayview Mackinac Race, which starts Saturday, July 18, on Lake Huron and is hosted by Bayview Yacht Club.

Race Chairman Peter Wenzler said that the changes start with the setting of a “speed limit” for participation on the Shore Course, the shorter of the event’s two courses, which follows the Michigan shoreline and covers 204 nautical miles.

“The Shore Course is no longer an option for larger boats with a PHRF rating below 99 seconds per mile,” said Wenzler.

Slower boats (rated above 99) have the option of sailing the Cove or the Shore course; however, Wenzler expects most of them to choose the latter. “Placing a speed limit gets all the faster boats on the Cove Island Course and keeps the smaller boats near shore on the Shore Course, so the bulk of the fleet arrives throughout the day on Monday.”

The minimum boat length for entry has been reduced from 27 feet to 24 feet. Safety requirements have been revised so that boats less than 30 ft. in length that don’t satisfy the extensive lifeline requirements may alternatively sail with the crew harnessed and tethered to the boat.

Wenzler said he expects tighter racing in

The J.L. Hudson Trophy, which previously was awarded to the overall winner on the course with the largest fleet, will now be reserved for the winner of the Cove Island Course. The Canadian Club Classic Trophy will serve as the overall award for the Shore Course.

fewer and bigger classes, resulting in better competition.

To register, visit www.bycmack.com.

greatlakesboating.com | 45

NEW PRODUCTS

LED TOW LIGHT The HDTL-WLED-M wireless battery powered LED tow light from Larson Electronics is powered by a rechargeable battery and has stop, tail, turn and hazard strobe light capabilities. It is recharged using a 12-volt cigarette lighter charger.

The unit is encased in a polyethylene case and is mounted on 150-lb. pull rubber coated magnets, which keep it in place during motion, and solid rubber grips, which ensure that no damage or scratching is done to the towing vehicle. It measures 18 inches wide by 6 inches high, and 6 inches deep. $667.50 // 800-369-6671 // larsonelectronics.com

AUTOMATIC BOAT COVER SunstreamÂŽ Boat Lifts has introduced SwiftShieldTM automated cover systems.

Powered with hydraulics and operated with a remote control, the A-Series design actuates an arm with a spring-loaded roller and three-dimensional cover over the entire boat.

The S-Series, which can be mounted to almost any boat lift or dock, rolls the cover on a roller that is mounted in front of the boat. The roller is powered by an electric motor via remote control or by a manual handle. When deployed, the cover unrolls from the roller and drapes over the boat. The forward roller then tightens the cover around the boat with a perimeter cord.

Call for pricing // 253-395-0500 // www.sunstreamcorp.com

CAMERA ADAPTER Boaters can extend the versatility of their GoPro and Garmin VIRB cameras by using Shurhold’s Camera Adapter, which can be locked into any Shurhold handle.

To attach the camera, owners just insert the included screw and tighten loosely.

Then, the device should be tilted to the desired angle and fastened securely.

Underwater footage can be captured from inside the boat or on the dock or while scuba diving. The handle with camera adapter attached can be set in a rod holder for an aerial view of fishing action. It can even be used to inspect under a vessel. $12.95 // 800-962-6241 // www.shurhold.com

46 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

An American Dream… conceived and built here.

F

rom her fuel efficient, Kevlar® reinforced hull and flawless gelcoat finish, the Marlow-Mainship 32 Pilothouse is a work of art. Interior finishes available in teak or cherry, she is equipped with genuine Corian® counter tops for easy maintenance, after all, who wants to spend time cleaning. Consumate craftmanship is to be found everywhere because after all… She is a Marlow.

www.mainship.com

BOAT CARE & FEEDING

WAX-AS-U-DRY Formulated for use on all exterior hard surfaces of boats and personal watercraft, the new Eagle One Wax-As-U-Dry provides a glistening shine and protection from UV damage, corrosion, and adhesion of lake scum.

The formula includes Carnauba wax, which provides a protective seal that can last for months.

After removing a watercraft from the water, just spray lightly and wipe clean with a microfiber towel.

Wax-As-Dry can also be used on engine cowlings and electronic screens to remove water spots.

The product is available at marine stores and national auto parts retailers. $9.99 // 800-832-6825 // www.eagleone.com

STOP ANCHOR STRESS The AnchorSnubber from Davis Instruments absorbs shock loads and helps keep an anchor set, making a boat comfortable at harbor, even in rough waters, adverse currents, or strong winds.

It is also a good choice for semi-permanent installation on a mooring buoy tether.

Absorbing shock loads from wind chop and wakes keeps the mooring ball from slamming into the boat.

Two stainless steel key pin shackles feature a captive-pin design. AnchorSnubber attaches directly to the chain, fitting most sizes of rope rode or snubber line.

The key pin shackles are narrow enough to run through most bow rollers.

The AnchorSnubber comes in black and is 20 inches long. $59.99 // 510-732-9229 // www.davisnet.com

EASY GELCOAT REPAIR MagicEzy 9-Second Chip Fix fills, bonds, levels and colors chips, gouges, wide cracks, and deep scratches on fiberglass surfaces above the waterline on any kind of boat. There is no need to prep the area prior to using. Available in 11 popular boat colors, more exact matches may be achieved by blending two colors.

Repairs are as simple as filling the damage, using the tube’s leveling device to smooth the area, and letting it dry. The result is an attractive, water-resistant, permanent surface repair that can even be sanded and drilled.

It comes in a 0.45 fluid ounce, reusable tube. $24.99 // www.magicezy.com

48 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

HYBRID ENERGY SUPPLY Deep Blue Hybrid is a fully integrated system that acts as an energy supply for both the hybrid drive and all AC/DC electrical loads on board. It can harness solar, wind, plug-in, and regenerative power in its high-capacity batteries.

The batteries can handle large house loads, such as air conditioning and cooking.

Work boats can run large tools, winches, and equipment directly off the high-capacity batteries, and environmental research vessels can access sensitive areas in quiet and undisturbed water conditions.

Deep Blue Hybrid is available as inboard, outboard, or saildrive in the 40 to 160 hp power classes, and as a single or twins. from $125K to $325K // 815-444-8806 // www.torqeedo.com

INTELLIGENT Y ADAPTER Hubbell Marine’s YQ230 Intelligent Y Adapter helps correct electrical system mismatches and is ideal for boats with a 50A, 125/250V requirement that dock in a marina that can only provide 30A, 125V. This adapter combines two oppositely-phased 30A, 125V receptacles to provide 30A, 125/250V of power. It features a three-pole contactor that breaks both hots and neutrals, preventing the possibility of a live plug when not engaged.

Its 50A connector mates with the boat’s male cordset end, while its two 30A plugs connect to 30A shore power.

The unit is environmentally sealed against humidity, fog, and rain.

Approx. $400 // 475-882-4838 // www.hubbell-marine.com

STABILIZER FOR SMALL BOATS With the Seakeeper 5, owners of smaller boats can enjoy the comfort and safety of gyro stabilization.

The scaled Seakeeper 5 reduces resonant boat roll by up to 90 percent on boats 30 feet to 50 feet. A built-in computer actively controls a powerful gyro that dramatically lessens boat movement. Nothing projects outside of the hull to diminish a vessel’s performance.

It requires 1,500 to 2,000 watts to operate, depending on sea state. Weighing 790 lbs., the unit is 30” L x 30” W x 25” H and can be installed off centerline. It is extremely quiet and nearly maintenance-free. $29,900 // 410-326-1590 // www.seakeeper.com

greatlakesboating.com | 49

EVENTS CALENDAR

March • April • May EVENTS FLORIDA

MARCH 6-8

Bonita Springs Boat Show

Birch Run Expo Center Birch Run

MARCH 5-8

Flint Steelheaders Boat Show

MISSOURI MARCH 4-8

www.flintsteelheaders.com

Progressive Insurance St. Louis Boat & Sportshow

www.swfmia.com

MARCH 12-15

America’s Center & Edward Jones Dome St. Louis

MARCH 12-15

Suburban Collection Showplace Novi

Naples/Ft. Myers Greyhound Track Bonita Springs

Dania Marine Flea Market Mardi Gras Casino Hallandale Beach www.daniamarinefleamarket.com

MARCH 13-15

Spring Boating Expo

www.boatmichigan.org

MARCH 13-15

Traverse City Hunting & Fishing Expo

Traverse City Civic Center/Howe Arena Traverse City

Tampa Bay Boat Show

www.tchuntfishexpo.com

Tropicana Field St. Petersburg

MARCH 14

www.tampabayboatshows.com

MARCH 26-29

Palm Beach International Boat Show Flagler Dr. (waterfront) Palm Beach www.showmanagement.com

MARCH 27-29

Finny Slam Fishing Tournament

Pere Marquette Expeditions Ludington www.pmexpeditions.com

MARCH 19-22

Ultimate Sport Show DeVos Place Grand Rapids

www.showspan.com/USG/

Sunnyland Antique Boat Festival

APRIL 10-12

Wooton Park Tavares

Traverse City Boat Show

www.acbs-sunnyland.org

Traverse County Civic Center/Howe Arena Traverse City

APRIL 17-19

www.traversecityboatshow.com

Suncoast Boat Show

MAY 15-17

Marina Jack’s, #2 Marina Plaza Sarasota www.showmanagement.com

Great Lakes Boating Festival

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Grosse Pointe www.boatmichigan.org

IOWA

www.stlouisboatshow.com

NEW YORK MARCH 7-8

Schroon Lake Ice Fishing Derby Schroon Lake 518-532-7953

MARCH 21-22

Champlain Valley RV & Boat Show Crete Memorial Civic Center Plattsburgh www.eastcoastshows.com/ rv-champlainvalley.html

MARCH 27-29

Great Upstate Boat Show Adirondack Sports Complex Queensbury www.thegreatupstateboatshow.com

NORTH DAKOTA MARCH 5-8

Fargo Boat, Camping and Vacation Show Fargodome Fargo www.fargosportshow.com

MARCH 13-15

KX Sportsman Show North Dakota State Fair Center Minot

MINNESOTA

www.kxsportshow.com

Eastern Iowa Sportshow Uni-Dome Cedar Falls

Progressive Insurance Northwest Sportshow

MARCH 29

MARCH 13-15

MARCH 25-29

www.easterniowasportshow.com

Minneapolis Convention Center Minneapolis

MICHIGAN

www.northwestsportshow.com

MARCH 4

MARCH 31

North American Ice Fishing Circuit

Team Extreme Ice Fishing Tournament

Croton Dam Pond Newaygo County www.naifc.com/events

Round Lake Brainerd www.lake-link.com/teamextreme/

OHIO

Ice Out Open Buckeye Lake Millersport www.allsportfundamentals.com

OKLAHOMA MARCH 6-8

Grand Lake Boat Show Grove Civic Center Grove www.grandlakefun.com

50 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

PENNSYLVANIA

MARCH 6-8

MARCH 20-22

Winter Festival

Wisconsin Sport Show

Multiple venues Bayfield

Eau Claire Indoor Sports Center Eau Claire

www.bayfieldwinterfestival.com

www.wisportshow.com

www.epacba.com/school.htm

MARCH 7-8

Ice-O-Rama

By law, a PWC must be registered and display its identification

CANADA

SOUTH DAKOTA

Chequamegon Bay Ashland

Coast Guard approved life jackets. Other required safety equipment

MARCH 14-15

Great Lakes Walleye School & Walleye Expo/Flea Market Scottish Rite Bldg., 4701 Old Zuck Rd. Erie

MARCH 12-15

715-685-9778

Sioux Falls Boat & Sportsmen Show

MARCH 6-8

number. The PWC operator and all passengers must wear U.S.

Central Ontario Boat Show Careport Expo Centre Hamilton, Ontario

includes an appropriate fire extinguisher, daytime distress signal for inland waterways, and a sound-producing device, such as a whistle www.ontarioboatshows.com or horn.

Sioux Falls Arena & Convention Center Sioux Falls

MARCH 13-14

www.siouxfallssportshow.com

or wet suit bottoms. smart to wear eye protection, gloves, Crowne Plaza Milwaukee Airport Hotel It’s also Perchin for MS booties or boat shoes, and helmets. Recommended equipment Milwaukee Sibbald Point Provincial Park

WISCONSIN MARCH 4-8

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sports Show Wisconsin State Fair Park Expo Center www.jsonline.com/sportsshow

MARCH 6-8

Ghost Ships Festival

PWC manufacturers recommend that all MARCH 7 passengers wear wet suits

www.ghost-ships.org

includes a basic first aid kit, water and snacks, sun protection, a

MARCH 13-15

current chart for the area, anchor and tow line, extra engine cut-off www.perchinforms.com lanyard, portable marine VHF radio, and a tool kit for simple repairs.

Canoecopia

Lake Simcoe

Other optional equipment includes an impeller protector and a telescoping paddle.

MARCH 9

Alliant Energy Center Laframboise Children’s Perch Derby Madison Before going out on the water, make sure toRoad understand the West Neebish www.canoecopia.com

regulations in the particularLaird state Township and locality. Age requirements

RV and Boat Show

for operators and passengers vary by state, and some jurisdictions www.facebook.

EAA Grounds Oshkosh

also be local regulations pertaining to speed and hours in areas of

www.rvboatmainevent.com

require a certificate of Personal Watercraft Operations. There may comLaframboiseChildrensPerchDerby operation. And, of course, file a float plan with a close friend or family member for every outing.

greatlakesboating.com | 39

greatlakesboating.com | 51

MARINE MART

PRODUCTS & SERVICES FREE ADS GOT A BOAT TO SELL? Complimentary 25-word classified boat advertisements and PHOTO in the May/June 2015 issue.

(NO STRINGS ATTACHED!)

Email your text-only advertisement to:

classifieds@greatlakesboating.com Free classified boat advertisement offer limited to one per reader.

All classified ads are subject to publisher’s approval. Space is limited. Free ads will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Advertisements for the May/Junw 2015 issue must be received by April 8, 2015.

Advertiser Index Allstate Insurance...................................BC Chicago Harbors/Westrec......................... 7 Crownline .................................................. 3 Donzi Marine............................................ 17 Eaton.......................................................... 5 Honda Marine.......................................... 27 Marlow-Mainship.................................... 47 Oconto...................................................... 33 Port Washington Marina......................... 21

SUBSCRIBE Online!

SUBSCRIPTION RATES US Customers 1 yr $21.50 (6 issues) 2 yr $40.00 (12 issues) CANADA (USD) 1 yr $27.50 (6 issues) 2 yr $46.00 (12 issues)

VISIT:

GreatLakesBoating.com or CALL: 312.266.8400

52 GLB | Ma r ch /A pr il 2015

Progressive Insurance...........................IFC Progressive Northwest Sportshow........ 55 RBFF......................................................... 56 Reef Point Marina...................................... 2 SkipperBud’s....................................... 1, 54 Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers........................ 51 Vicem Yachts......................................... IBC Waukegan Harbor.................................... 37 Zodiac Marine/Reed Yacht Sales............ 31

VISIT NOW!

One owner 2002 340 SeaRay 340 Sundancer with 8.1 engines and generator. Full electronics and in super clean condition. Call Chuck at 269-7672195. $149,900. (see photo below)

1986 Tradewinds 38’ Sundeck Trawler: Single SP135 diesel, bow thruster, generator, Stratoglas enclosure, bimini, cruise ready, pillow top cal-queen, fuel polisher.

Call 330-882-4441. $79,900 OBO.

Viking 40 Sportfish with Flybridge: 454 twin Crusaders, generator, teak flooring, surveys 2008 & 2013. Call Larry:

GREAT LAKES

BOATING FEDERATION

815-715-4820, Milwaukee, WI. $38,000 OBO.

MISCELLANEOUS

LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A MARINA? Contact: Eddy A. Dingman Lic: Marina real estate/business broker

NEW

IMPROVED MOBILE FRIENDLY! GreatLakesBoatingFederation.com

847-987-6626

eddy@nationalgolfandmarina.com National Marina Properties Group Financing available to qualified buyers.

AMI MEMBER (association of Marina industries)

Visit: http://nationalgolfandmarina.com

SELL YOUR BOAT on our new redesigned Classified Section at www.greatlakesboating.com greatlakesboating.com | 53

MARINE MART

POWERBOATS

For complete specs & photos of these boats visit: B13259 B13254 B13240 B11114 B13130 B13343 B9802 B10580 B12228 B13358 B12992 B13045 B12875 B13291 B12822 B12648 B13385 B13319 B13252 B13373 B13282 B10475 B11798 B13152 B12920 B12527 B13396 B12608 B13199 B13325 B12599 B13141 B13394 R0482A B13304 B12403 BT0101A B12311 B13261 B7884 B13364 B12673 B13366 E0303A B12328 B12883 B11335 TY0134B B10545 E0133B B12408 B12945

2007 2012 2006 2004 2004 2004 2005 2005 2005 2006 2012 2004 2007 2009 2009 2012 2004 2004 2005 2005 2005 2007 2007 2008 2008 2013 2015 2005 2005 2006 2008 2008 2009 2011 2012 2012 2013 2005 2005 2005 2005 2005 2004 2004 2006 2006 2007 2007 2007 2008 2008 2010

18 21 22 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 31 31 31 31 31 32 32 32 32 32 32 32 32 32 32 32 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 34 34 34 34 34 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 35

SCOUT 187 SOUTH BAY 522CR Crownline 220 EX SEA RAY 300 Sundancer SEA RAY 300 Sundancer MONTEREY 302 BAJA 30 Outlaw BAJA 302 BOSS MAINSHIP 30 BOSTON Whaler 305 Conquest SEA RAY 300SLX TIARA 31 Open FOUR WINNS 318 Vista FORMULA 310 Sunsport SEA RAY 310 Sundancer RINKER 310 EC TIARA 32 Open TIARA 32 Open SEA RAY 32 Sundancer SEA RAY 32 Sundancer SEA RAY 32 Sundancer TIARA 32 Open SEA RAY 32 Sundancer TIARA 32 Open BAYLINER 320 Express SEA RAY 300SLX CRUISERS 328 CX CARVER 33SS FORMULA 330SS CARVER 33SS FOUR WINNS 338 Vista CRUISERS 330 SEA RAY 330 Sundancer CHAPARRAL 330 SEA RAY 330 Sundancer SEA RAY 330 Sundancer SEA RAY 330 Sundancer SEA RAY 340 Sundancer SEA RAY 340 Sundancer SEA RAY 340 Sundancer SEA RAY 340 Sundancer FOUR WINNS 348 Vista SILVERTON 35 MY REGAL 3560 Express CARVER 35SS REGAL 3560 RINKER 350FV FOUR WINNS 328 Vista LARSON 350 Cabrio Formula 350SS SEA RAY 330 Sundancer SEA RAY 350 Sundancer

$24,000 $21,995 $34,995 $99,900 $79,900 $69,995 $79,000 $89,900 $86,500 $139,900 $139,900 $119,900 $99,900 $124,900 $159,900 $119,900 $153,900 $204,900 $114,900 $109,900 $99,000 $229,900 $129,500 $214,900 $85,000 $139,900 $269,900 $124,000 $94,900 $134,995 $149,900 $147,900 $174,995 $169,995 $179,900 $199,000 $215,995 $139,000 $129,900 $179,995 $144,000 $139,900 $129,500 $109,900 $154,500 $129,900 $165,000 $139,900 $119,900 $179,900 $199,900 $219,900

B13194 B10511 HF0624A B11398 C1044A B13167 B11266 B12233 B12118 B12963 B7169 B13200 B13384 B12841 P2044 B11623 B13389 B12248 E0264A B5978 B12848 B12494 B13183 B13208 B13374 B12770 B13255 B11943 B10712 B12923 B11899 B12807 TY0063R B13217 B12489 B12916 B12880 B12776 B8085 B13388 E0113A B13092 B13021 B13381 B13350 B13030 B10470 B13277 B12119 B9579 B13172

2004 2006 2006 2006 2011 2004 2004 2004 2004 2004 2005 2005 2007 2008 2009 2011 2011 2006 2007 2004 2005 2012 2004 2005 2005 2007 2007 2005 2006 2007 2007 2009 2013 2014 2004 2005 2008 2005 2005 2007 2005 2007 2007 2012 2008 2008 2008 2011 2004 2007 2006

36 37 37 37 37 38 38 38 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 39 40 40 41 41 41 42 42 42 42 42 43 43 43 43 43 43 43 44 44 44 46 46 48 50 50 50 50 52 55 55 58 59 62 82

SKIPPERBUDS.COM

TIARA 36 Sovran FOUR WINNS 378 Vista FORMULA 37 PC FOUR WINNS 378 Vista SEA RAY 370 Sundancer PURSUIT 3800 MERIDIAN 381 SEA RAY 380 Sundancer SEA RAY 39 Motor Yachts SEA RAY 390 Sundancer SEA RAY 390 Motor Yachts SEA RAY 390 Sundancer MERIDIAN 391 MERIDIAN 391 TIARA 39 Open TIARA 39 Open SEA RAY 390 Sundancer SEA RAY 400 Sundancer FORMULA 40PC MERIDIAN 411 SB RINKER 410 CRUISERS 41 Cantius SEA RAY 420 Sedan SEA RAY 420 Sundancer SEA RAY 420 Sundancer CARVER 42SS RINKER 420EC SILVERTON 43 TIARA 43 Sovran TIARA 43 Sovran CRANCHI 43 SEA RAY 43 Sundancer TIARA 43 Open TIARA 43 Open TIARA 44 Sovran CRUISERS 440EC SEA RAY 440 Sundancer SEA RAY 460 Sundancer SEA RAY 460 Sundancer SEA RAY 480 Sundancer Cruisers 500 Express SILVERTON 50C SILVERTON 50C MARQUIS 500 Sport Bridge SEA RAY 520Sundancer SEA RAY 550 Sundancer SEA RAY 550 Sundancer SEA RAY 580 Sundancer MARQUIS 59 Sport Bridge AZIMUT 62 Fly Sunseeker 82 Predator

$219,900 $139,900 $169,900 $134,995 $249,995 $295,900 $169,900 $149,900 $174,995 $189,900 $385,000 $239,900 $249,000 $249,000 $499,000 $589,000 $339,000 $234,900 $219,900 $279,900 $139,000 $419,500 $279,900 $289,900 $249,900 $279,000 $189,000 $309,900 $399,900 $409,900 $385,750 $499,900 $849,900 $969,900 $395,000 $289,000 $439,000 $439,000 $349,000 $479,000 $379,900 $499,900 $549,995 $999,000 $549,000 $849,500 $995,000 $1,129,000 $699,000 $985,000 $1,595,000

www.DonziMarine.com â—? 252.975.2000

March 25-29, 2015 • Minneapolis Convention Center

Gear up for all your outdoor adventures!

• • •

Boats for every activity and the latest model RVs More than 30,000 sq. ft. of fishing tackle and marine accessories Book trips with outfitters, lodges & resorts

PLUS, an incredible line-up of boating entertainment and education!

NEW this year! Timber Tina’s World Champion Lumberjills show, and fun, interactive boating courses at the Progressive® Insurance Boat School.

Returning favorites include boat & motor DIY seminars at Fred’s Shed Interactive Learning Center, Marine Electronics University sponsored

by Lowrance, fishing demos at the Texas Bass Tank, Ducks Unlimited Room, Wild Turkey Room, FREE trout fishing for kids, Discover Fly Fishing and more!

Pre-shop, tickets and details at NorthwestSportShow.com