May/June_2013

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June 2013

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

appear on pages 8, 9, and 10 of this issue. They exemplify what I consider a pervasive problem— federal agencies overlooking the

WHERE BOATERS GO FOR NEWS

needs and desires of the more than 4.2 million registered boaters on

Publisher & Editor in Chief F. Ned Dikmen

the Great Lakes. This continuing omission of Great Lakes recreational

Managing Editor Karen Malonis

boaters and sportsfishermen from May/June is a fun time of the year

government actions that affect them

on the Great Lakes. The change from

is appalling.

one season to another, spring to

We are major users of these

summer, is full of great expectations.

waterways for boating, fi shing,

It seems that everyone is looking

swimming, and other recreational

forward to the warm, sunny days of

activities. We contribute more than

summer and the prospect of relaxing

$9 billion a year to the economies of

days on the Great Lakes.

the Great Lakes, and we don’t have

To help you enjoy the summer

a representative on the Great Lakes

boating season, especially the Great

Advisory Board. Why?

Lakes as a fi sherman’s paradise,

In my letter to the acting EPA

we profi le four Pro-Line models.

administrator, I said there is a

The Pro-Line boats are ideal for

simple way to rectify this wrong.

fishermen, but they also cross over

I asked him to appoint a recreational

into the multi-function area, meaning

or sportsfishermen to this advisory

they’re suitable for a fun time fishing

board to make sure the voices of

Associate Editor Jerome A. Koncel Contributing Writers Joseph Carro Peter Burakowski

Graphic Design Mila Ryk Andrea Vasata

Advertising | Sales Inquiries Neil Dikmen p 312.266.8400 • f 312.266.8470 e info@greatlakesboating.com

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

2013 is a registered trademark (73519-331) of Chicago

Boating Publications, Inc., its publisher, 1032 N. LaSalle

one day and a relaxing time cruising

this stakeholder group are heard

the waters the next day.

and hopefully acted upon by

Another boat that all boaters should

the government.

consider for their relaxing days on

The response from the EPA

p 312.266.8400 or e kmalonis@greatlakesboating.com.

the Great Lakes is the Azimut 43HT.

was disheartening. I never got a

This 44-foot hardtop unit offers

Great Lakes Boating Magazine is available online at

direct “Yes” or “No” to my request.

greatlakesboating.com and at any of the distribution

smooth navigation in all weather

Instead I was told that municipal

centers and newsstands in areas surrounding

conditions, while presenting a

and state officials could represent

the Great Lakes. Postmaster should forward all

contemporary Italian interpretation

our concerns.

undelivered issues to Great Lakes Boating Magazine,

Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

For editorial inquiries, contact Great Lakes Boating Magazine at 1032 N. LaSalle, Chicago, IL 60610

1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

of the traditional trawler.

For far too long, we Great Lakes

All manuscripts should be accompanied by a self-

Because the most important aspect

boaters have tolerated government’s

of an enjoyable boating experience

addressed stamped envelope. Great Lakes Boating

actions as being just another thing

Magazine is not responsible and will not be liable for

is making it a safe one, we present

we have to deal with if we are to

non-solicited manuscripts, including photographs.

a series of articles on this topic.

enjoy boating and fi shing on the

Great Lakes Boating Magazine does not assume

The USCG offers its regular feature,

Great Lakes. All too often, the

liability or ensure accuracy of the content contained

highlighting how to safely navigate

needs and concerns of Great Lakes

docks. We also present an overview

boaters and fi shermen have been

on the improvements recreational

brought to the government, and then

boaters have made in boating safety,

simply been shunted aside for more

and how we can make even greater

Magazine do not constitute an endorsement or

important matters.

guarantee of their safety by Great Lakes Boating

strides in this area. Finally, we

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. Material in the publication may not be

describe the items that should be

I urge you to call the appropriate EPA

included in a ditch bag.

representative and demand that a

Great Lakes Boating Magazine editorial and executive

boater and/or sportsfi shermen be

staff. Past copies may be purchased by sending a

added to the advisory group.

written request to the offices of Great Lakes Boating

And fi nally, I want to call your

reproduced in any form without written consent of the

attention to the Letters to the Editor

Magazine. For reprints contact: FosteReprints,

and the accompanying editorial that

p 800.382.0808 or f 219.879.8366.

04 GLB | May/June 13

TABLE OF CONTENTS

20 OTC

23 EXPRESS LENGTH:

FEATURES

FEATURES • PRO-LINE • BOAT SAFETY • TALL SHIPS • MARINE ELECTRONICS

BEAM: DRAFT (HULL): DEADRISE:

12 16 20 30

FUEL: COCKPIT AREA: COCKPIT DEPTH: MAX HP:

34

SPOTLIGHTS

23’0” 8’6” 17” 20° 125 gal 52 sq. ft.

25”

300

Pro-Line introduced its first 23-foot cabin boat in 1978 and it was an instant success. Today’s 23 Express takes midsize family boating to a new standard. With more seating, storage, fishboxes, and amenities, there is no better value on the market.

SPOTLIGHTS DEPARTMENTS DEPARTMENTS • AZIMUT 43 MAGELLANO • FATHER’S DAY FISHING GIFTS • HOW TO NAVIGATE LOCKS • DITCH BAG

24 27 28 34

IN THE NEWS IN THE NEWS • GREAT LAKES • FISHING • MARINAS • NATIONAL • SAILING

36 40 42 44 46

• PUBLISHER’S NOTE • LETTERS TO EDITOR • EDITORIALS • NEW PRODUCTS • BOAT CARE AND FEEDING • MARINE MART • ADVERTISER INDEX • EVENTS CALENDAR

04 08 10 48 50 52 54 55

Read

GRE AT L AKES BOATING on your tablet or smartphone

visit: greatlakesboating.com

VISIT NOW! SUBSCRIBE ADVERTISE VIEW VIRTUAL MAGAZINE

GreatLakesBoating.com

GREAT LAKES BOATING FEDERATION NEW IMPROVED MOBILE FRIENDLY! GreatLakesBoatingFederation.com

The 23 Express is a state-of-the-art fishing machine designed with crew and family in mind. Think of it as 30 feet of fishing and cruising capacity packed into a 23-footer. Give it a rigorous workout while fishing on Saturday and then take it cruising on Sunday. This model has been built to meet and exceed NMMA and Coast Guard specifications, so it will provide you and your family enjoyment for years to come.

Pro-line Boats started out in 1968 as a small company that built fishing boats for local guides. Since that time, the builder has grown and evolved into one of the largest fiberglass fishing boat companies in the world.

Throughout its history, Pro-Line’s business philosophy has been the same: to listen to its customers and based on their feedback to deliver the best designed fi shing boat for their hardearned money.

Pro-Line Boats 1653 Whichards Beach Road Washington, NC 27889 800-344-1281

prolineboats.com

06 GLB | May/June 13

LET TERS TO EDITOR

Letters to editor THE REQUEST Bob Perciasepe, Acting Administrator Environmental Protection Agency Dear Mr. Perciasepe: It recently came to my attention that the EPA has announced the members of its Great Lakes Advisory Board.

These advisers are to help support the implementation of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), a very important and essential multi-agency undertaking designed to restore the Great Lakes and make it a better place for our future generations.

In reading the list of advisers, I was appalled to fi nd that it does not include one person who reflects and/or represents the more than 4.2 million registered boaters on the Great Lakes. Th is glaring omission of a major user of the Great Lakes does a real disservice to the millions of people who enjoy countless days and hours recreating on the Great Lakes. All too often, the federal government seems to either overlook or ignore the needs and desires of this large segment of the American population. Th is has to stop right now, and you have the opportunity to rectify this situation.

As it stands, this advisory board is missing a major stakeholder who can make significant contributions to the government’s efforts to restore the Great Lakes and keep them a sustainable ecosystem for the foreseeable future. If this advisory board is to be effective and relevant, it must include an individual who represents the needs and desires of recreational boaters and sportsfi shermen.

I thank you for taking this time to read my letter and understand my urgent concerns about the makeup of the GLRI advisory board. As a leader of the Great Lakes Boating Federation, which is the voice of more than 4.2 million boaters on the Great Lakes, I am asking you to add a boating representative.

F. Ned Dikmen, Ph.D. Publisher, Great Lakes Boating Chairman, Great Lakes Boating Federation

THE RESPONSE Dear Dr. Dikmen: Thank you for your April 3, 2013 letter to Acting Administrator Perciasepe expressing concern about recreational boating representation on the Great Lakes Advisory Board.

We agree with you that the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is an important program that will benefit future generations of people who live, work and recreate in the region.

We received many excellent nominations, with a limited number of appointments to fi ll the membership of the Board. A multi-agency panel identified candidates based on a variety of factors in addition to qualifications, such as geographical interest, gender, and cultural and other forms of diversity. Th ough a boating representative was not appointed, that does not mean that recreational boating interests will not be represented. For example, some of the state and municipal representatives are keenly aware of the importance of boating to their local and state economies. Additionally, all Board meetings will be open to the public. As such, we hope the Great Lakes Boating Federation will consider attending future meetings to communicate its interests.

Should you have any questions, please contact Rita Cestaric, the designated federal official for the Board, at cestaric.rita@epa.gov or 312-886-6815. Th ank you again for communicating your interests to us.

Cameron Davis Senior Advisor to the Administrator

08 GLB | May/June 13

THE REPLY Cameron Davis, Senior Advisor to the Administrator Environmental Protection Agency Dear Mr. Davis: I am in receipt of your letter of April 11, 2013, regarding my letter to Acting Administrator Perciasepe expressing my concerns about not having a boating representative on the Great Lakes Advisory Board.

While I appreciate your quick response, I find this note to be inadequate in responding to my concerns.

First, you write that a multi-agency panel identified candidates for the board. While you are telling me about the selection process, you did not explain how this group could have not included a recreational boater and/or sportsfisherman on the list. Th is glaring omission, as I noted in my previous letter, is a great disservice to the needs and desires of the 4.2 million registered boaters and the more than 1.6 million sportsfishermen on the Great Lakes.

Not appointing a representative from either one or both of these major stakeholder groups is appalling.

Second, to say that state and municipal representatives would represent recreational boating interests is a disservice to these public servants. With the many and varied interests that they represent, it’s apparent that the needs and desires of recreational boating and sportsfi shing would not be uppermost in their minds.

Finally, you never answered my request to have the EPA Administrator add a recreational boater and/or sportsfi sherman to the advisory board. By not taking such action, the administrator would be disrespecting the needs and desires of one of the largest, if not the largest, users of the Great Lakes. Moreover, it would be another example of how the federal government is not listening to the citizens of the Great Lakes Basin. Th e lack of representation would cause boaters and anglers to wonder if the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is being true to its mission of restoring the Great Lakes for all users, both now and in the future.

F. Ned Dikmen, Ph.D. Publisher, Great Lakes Boating Chairman, Great Lakes Boating Federation

JOIN GREAT LAKES BOATING FEDERATION TO PRESERVE AND PROTECT BOATING To get your voice heard amidst the din and clatter of a dysfunctional government, boaters on the Great Lakes should join the Great Lakes Boating Federation (GLBF).

GLBF is the voice for the 4.2 million boaters on the Great Lakes. It is the organization that boaters depend on in advocating and defending the rights of Great Lakes boaters.

For more information or to join the Great Lakes Boating Federation,

www.greatlakesboatingfederation.com, email: glbf@greatlakesboatingfederation.com visit

or call 312-266-8408.

greatlakesboating.com | 09

EDITORIALS

Stop Ignoring the Voices of Recreational Boaters There comes a time in everyone’s life when they have to take a stand for their own well-being and self-confidence. Well, the same holds true for recreational boaters. Now is that time for recreational boaters to stand up for their rights, and we’re leading the charge. We’re taking as our motto that of the fictional news anchor Howard Beale from the movie “Network” who said, “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it any more.”

The cause of our anger and outrage is the federal government’s lack of concern for and acknowledgement of the social, political, and economic impact of recreational boaters and sportsfishermen. In its words and actions, the government has blatantly disregarded our needs and desires.

The most recent example of this was the list of people the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) appointed to its advisory task force to help with the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). As the saying goes, “This was the straw that broke the camel’s back.”

In appointing 16 people to its advisory board, EPA selected university professors, scientists, elected officials, native Americans, and even a foundation executive. Anyone missing? Only the largest and most avid users of the Great Lakes, i.e. recreational boaters and sportsfi shermen.

Two things to note before continuing. First, the GLRI, a federal interagency initiative that involves 11 federal agencies working together to restore that Great Lakes to their rightful position as one of our nation’s great natural resources, is both an admirable goal and one that will aid future generations using the Great Lakes.

Second, this magazine and its association counterpart, the Great Lakes Boating Federation (GLBF), believe that it is important for all individuals to have their voices heard on issues that concern them. The GLBF, as the voice of more than 4.2 million boaters on the Great Lakes, represents the needs and desires of Great Lakes recreational boaters, so it has a vested interest in the GLRI. An issue such as the GLRI certainly deserves its attention and involvement.

When EPA announced its list of advisory board members, we were “appalled” at the lack of boaters or sportsfi shermen. Th is

was a “glaring omission.” We sent a letter to the acting head of the EPA expressing our concern about this advisory board and asked him to appoint a boater or angler to the board.

In our letters, which you can find on the previous pages, we stated that the advisory board list was inadequate because it did not include any representatives from the more than 4.2 million recreational boaters and anglers who are major users of the Great Lakes. We are major stakeholders in the Great Lakes.

We generate more than $9 billion a year in economic benefits to the area.

In its appointments to the GLRI advisory board, EPA has shown a blatant disregard for these major stakeholders. Th is glaring omission must be rectified if the actions of the GLRI are to be considered useful and not hollow. There’s only way to rectify this wrong—the EPA must appoint a member or even two to represent the needs and desires of recreational boating and sportsfi shermen.

At press deadline, Cameron Davis, a senior advisor to the acting head of EPA, responded to us stating that the agency takes the needs of boaters very seriously, but would not appoint a recreational boater or Great Lakes angler to the advisory board. Davis said in his response that state and municipal representatives “are keenly aware of the needs of boaters,” and any boaters or anglers interested in the GLRI advisory board’s activities are certainly welcome to attend its open meetings.

Th is response is totally inadequate. It does not address our request to add another advisory board member and shows a lack of concern for our needs. We’re mad as hell and are not going to take it any more! It’s time for the federal government to stop ignoring the needs, desires, and voices of recreational boaters and sportsfi shermen.

If you believe the federal government needs to acknowledge and pay greater attention to the recreational boaters and sportsfi shermen on the Great Lakes, please contact Rita Cestaric, the designated federal official for the Board, at: cestaric.rita@epa.gov or call her at 312-886-6815 and tell her the EPA needs to add a recreational boater of sportsfi shermen to the board.

Agree? Disagree? Want to Comment?

Email your thoughts to letters@greatlakesboating.com 10 GLB | May/June 13

Nuclear Dump on the Great Lakes?

Recreational boaters and sportsfishermen take great pride in protecting the Great Lakes. They not only boat in these waters, but many of them also fish and swim in them. Because there are 4.2 million registered boaters on the Great Lakes, their voices matter, and nearly every one of them agrees that burying nuclear waste in the Great Lakes is not a good idea.

We recently found out that at least one important party disagrees with our beliefs on the burying of nuclear waste. We received a press release indicating that Ontario Power Generation (OPG), one of Canada’s largest utility providers, plans to construct an underground waste dump on the shore of Lake Huron.

When a group of concerned citizens got “whiff” of OPG’s plan, they launched an online petition to stop it. They also put up a digital billboard on one of Toronto’s major expressways that gathered a great deal of publicity for their efforts. Here’s what they’re objecting to in their petition.

OPG plans to build an underground nuclear waste dump, which it calls a “deep geological repository,” on the shore of Lake Huron in the municipality of Kincardine, Ontario. According to OPG’s plan, the “repository” would be built about two-thirds of a mile from shore and then underground to within 1,600 feet of the lake.

Although we have not taken a scientific poll of residents and Great Lakes boaters to get their opinions on the matter, it appears that the number of people opposed to OPG’s plan is growing for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is that some of the nuclear waste remains toxic for more than 100,000 years. Despite the growing opposition, the federal government is expected to approve the plan by the end of the year.

“This dump puts at risk the fresh water of the Great Lakes, which contains 21 percent of the world’s fresh water and is relied upon by 40 million people in two countries,” said Beverly Fernandez, a member of Stop the Great Lakes Nuclear Dump Inc., one of several groups that have formed to raise awareness of OPG’s proposal. “We are bringing this issue to the public’s attention because we believe that Canadians and Americans deserve the opportunity to learn more and voice their opinion on an issue that will affect generations to come.”

Even before OPG has received approval to proceed with the project, it had paid $10.5 million (C) to the municipality of

Kincardine and four adjacent municipalities for their support of the effort, according to the Stop the Great Lakes Nuclear Dump, Inc. In addition, if the utility can secure federal government approval, it will pay the five municipalities more than $35.7 million (C) over 30 years. The catch here, according to the opposition group, is that the municipalities must not waiver from consistently “exercising their best efforts to support the construction and operation” of the dump.

Fernandez said that university professors, physicians, and individuals intimately familiar with the government processes are speaking out against OPG’s plan. Rod McLeod, former deputy minister, Environment (Ontario), said, “I think the OPG proposal is very unwise.”

William Fyfe, retired professor emeritus in geochemistry at the University of Western Ontario and an international consultant on nuclear waste, said, “You do not put nuclear waste near things like the Great Lakes or the great rivers in case there’s a leakage that you haven’t expected.”

Suzanne Sorkin, an East Lansing, Mich. family physician, said, “I worry about the safety of the Great Lakes water supply for my current and future patients. A leak from these dangerous wastes could contaminate Great Lakes drinking water and fisheries far into the future.”

Stop The Great Lakes Nuclear Dump Inc. is a non-profit organization comprised of ordinary Canadians who believe that the protection of the Great Lakes from buried radioactive nuclear waste is responsible stewardship, and is of national and international importance. In order to protect the Great Lakes, this group believes that radioactive nuclear waste should not be buried anywhere in the Great Lakes Basin. It urges citizens to sign its online petition to send a message to the Minister of the Environment to stand up for the protection of the Great Lakes.

We applaud this group’s efforts and urge you to support the same. To learn more about the issue, visit: www.stopthegreatlakesnucleardump.com. To sign the online petition, go to: www.gopetition.com/petitions/ stopthegreatlakesnucleardump.html.

Don’t ever forget that governments and others should hear and consider the voices of recreational boaters and sportsfishermen when it comes to issues affecting the Great Lakes.

greatlakesboating.com | 11

P

ro-line Boats started out in 1968 as a small company that built fishing boats for local guides. Since that time, the builder has grown and evolved into one of the largest fiberglass fishing boat companies in the world.

This year marks another milestone in the company’s evolution as it has moved into a new 250,000 sq. ft. manufacturing home on the Pamlico River in Washington, N.C. Pro-line sees its new location on the waterfront as an ideal spot for on-the-water tests and equipment checks. Couple these resources with the dedication, passion, and single-minded pursuit of perfection of Pro-line’s workforce and it’s easy to understand why Pro-Line is able to provide families, professional anglers, guides, and many others with the boats of their dreams. prolineboats.com

12 GLB | May/June 13

Length Beam Draft (Hull) Deadrise Max HP

32’4” 10’10” 23” 22 ° 600

PRO-LINE 32 E XPRESS Boaters looking to take their vessels on a hardcore run to

sleeping comfort, the 32 Express has a large mid-cabin

deep water dive sites or simply looking for a fun day of fishing

sleeping berth located to the aft of the cabin.

and swimming on the islands, need to look no further than

Cabin amenities include numerous storage compartments,

Pro-line’s 32 Express, the boatbuilder’s answer to a true

positive lock door latches, mood lighting, a low maintenance

crossover boat.

headliner, and a head with enough space and other amenities

When boaters take their fi rst steps into the cabin, they’ll

that it can honestly be called a bathroom.

immediately forget any notion of “roughing it” because

Above deck the 32 Express boasts a full helm station, bench

this is an uncompromising fi shing boat enhanced with a

seating on the port side, an oversized bait station, fl ush

touch of luxury. The full galley includes a freshwater sink,

mount tackle box, oversized below deck and foam-insulated

state-of-the-art microwave, convenient stovetop, a fl ush

fishboxes, a quick access freshwater hose, a spacious

mount refrigerator, and Staron® non-porous countertops.

cockpit, a collapsible rear bench seat, and a wide beam of

The forward wrap-around seating is comfortable, while the

nearly 11 feet. Everything is designed and included to make

flush mount dining table converts into a large bed. For more

the boating experience fun, enjoyable, and hassle-free.

greatlakesboating.com | 13

26 SUPER SPORT Boaters can look forward to outstanding performance when they step aboard ProLine’s 26 Super Sport with its faster hull, smoother ride and better fuel economy.

On deck there’s an abundance of fishing features. A lighted baitwell is integrated into the transom aft of the deck to ensure plenty of angling room. Two large insulated fishboxes can be found in the deck, while rod storage is located under the gunwale. Rod holders are strategically placed above the gunwales. There’s a large forward casting deck with two storage lockers, and the console has a usable enclosed head.

When it comes time to sit and relax, the 26 Super Sport provides comfortable results.

Length Beam Draft (Hull) Deadrise Max HP

26’4” 8’6” 18” 23 ° 450

The console has a forward molded bench seat with backrest, and on the aft deck there is a foldaway transom bench seat with backrest.

23 DUAL CONSOLE Providing a bit of nostalgia, Pro-Line’s new 23-foot Dual Console embodies the versatile spirit of the company’s original 24-footer, but with a full complement of contemporary advancements.

From its numerous seating configurations, pass-through windshield, loads of storage space and a sleek, modern design, the 23 Dual Console will provide boaters with countless hours of recreation in a fun bow-riding style. Whether it’s skiing, diving, sightseeing, camping, or just enjoying a simple day on the lake, river or coast, this boat will do it all.

And when it’s time to cast a hook, the 23 DC continues Pro-Line’s heritage of angling excellence with amenities that include rod holders, a lighted baitwell and a roomy fishbox.

Length Beam Draft (Hull) Deadrise Max HP

14 GLB | May/June 13

23’0” 8’6” 17” 20 ° 300

23 E XPRESS Introduced in 1978, Pro-Line’s first 23-foot cabin boat, the 23 Express, was an instant success. Today the new 23 Express takes mid-size family boating to a new level with plenty of seating, storage space, fishboxes, and thoughtful amenities. For boaters and families, this boat is a true value.

The 23 Express is a state-of-the-art fishing machine designed with crew and family in mind. This is a boat that can be fished hard on Saturday and used for cruising on Sunday. Built to meet and exceed NMMA and Coast Guard specifi cations, the practical 23 Express will provide fishing and cruising enjoyment for years to come.

prolineboats.com Length Beam Draft (Hull) Deadrise Max HP

23’0”

Length Beam Draft (Hull) Deadrise Max HP

23’0”

8’6” 17” 22 ° 300

23 XP The new 23 XP is an offshoot of Pro-line’s best selling 23 Express and is equipped with a true pilothouse hard top.

This crossover boat is loaded with more fishing and cruising features than any boat in its class. From a full cabin with sleeping berth and porta potty to ample deck seating, storage space, and fishing appointments, this model delivers reliability. Anglers will appreciate the lighted baitwell with raw water washdown as well as the fishboxes with macerator.

The 23 XP is a multi-functional cabin boat that can be used for fi shing or cruising in nearly any weather condition.

prolineboats.com

8’6” 17” 20 ° 300

greatlakesboating.com | 15

IMPROVING BOATING

By Jerome A. Koncel

T

he best way to enjoy recreational boating, fishing and the boating lifestyle is by making safety a key component of the boating experience. Most boating

accidents are unexpected, but also a regular occurrence on the Great Lakes. As part of its mission to promote boating

EVERYONE'S RESPONSIBLE Although boating safety is everyone’s responsibility, two organizations in particular have taken leadership roles in this area: the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) and the USCG.

safety and to keep everyone aware of boating dangers, the

NSBC’s role is to promote safer boating experiences through

United States Coast Guard (USCG) provides a yearly update

education, outreach, and training. The USCG shares a

on boating accidents, fatalities, and damages.

similar mission and works in partnership with states and

At press deadline, the USCG had not released its official

other organizations to perform the same tasks. The USCG’s

statistics on boating fatalities for 2012, but sources tell GLB

Division of Boating Safety is dedicated to reducing the loss of

that the final tally will be the lowest or among the lowest since

life, preventing injuries, and reducing property damage that

the USCG has been keeping track of them.

occurs on U.S. waterways by improving the knowledge, skills, and abilities of recreational boaters.

This drop is good news after fatalities increased 11 percent in 2011 over 2010. Although fatalities were up, the number

Although the number of boating fatalities has been fairly

of boating deaths has been fairly stable for the last 10-12

stable over the last decade, the USCG points out that

years staying around the 700 number. That this number

boating under the influence and not wearing a life jacket or

has remained constant is a good sign because the number

personal flotation device are the two single biggest factors

of people who are participating in boating has reached an

in fatal boating accidents. Based on this information, some

all-time high of more than 73 million, according to the 2011

organizations and associations have pushed hard to mandate

National Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) survey released

that everyone aboard a boat must wear a life jacket.

by USCG.

Unfortunately, not all members of the boating industry have

Despite these significant improvements in boating safety,

supported this cause. In fact, there is a significant segment

there’s still a lot that needs to be done to reduce boating

of the industry that views such an effort as an infringement

accidents and fatalities. The celebration of National

on their personal freedom, and in some cases, they describe

Safe Boating Week, May 18-24, is a good time to update

mandatory life jackets as another unnecessary and unwanted

our readers on what’s happening with boating safety.

intrusion by the federal government into the lives of its citizens.

16 GLB | May/June 13

Commenting on boating fatalities, Virgil Chambers, NSBC’s

complete a boating safety/education course, only one state

executive director, said nothing will happen unless "boaters

(Alabama) mandates an actual boating license. It is important

make some significant changes.” If recreational boaters are

to note that a boating certificate and a boater license are not

serious about boater safety they need to make wearing of

the same thing.

personal flotation devices and taking of boater education classes integral parts of their boating lifestyle. At the same time enforcement of boating under the influence (BUI) laws and promotion of don’t drink and drive programs are needed.

Chambers said that while the concept of mandatory life jackets for all boaters is a worthy goal, it is a lost cause as a legislative proposal. “We’re simply not going to get the federal government to pass any laws mandating the wearing of life jackets,” said Chambers. “We’ve gone down that road, and it’s not passable.”

At present 42 states require operators to take a Boating Safety Education and Boating Class. Every state has its own boating rules, laws and regulations, and the boating class requirements for obtaining a boat license or safety certification vary from state to state.

Regardless of state boating class requirements, boater safety classes are a great investment of time and money. As an added bonus, most boat insurance providers provide a discount to those boat owners who successfully complete a

This has not deterred the NSBC. It has developed the “Wear

boating education/safety class, noting that such classes will

It” campaign, a voluntary effort to let boaters know about the

increase an operator’s water safety skills.

different types of life jackets available to them and to have them wear a life jacket all the times they are boating.

BUI LAWS

Chambers said there are good statistical reasons behind the

Boating under the influence is a law in most states, and

“Wear It” campaign. In 2011, 533 of the 758 boating fatalities

the problem with this law is not in its need, but rather in its

resulted from drowning, according to the USCG. Of these

enforcement.

drowning victims, 84 percent were reported as not wearing a life jacket. Whether these individuals could have been saved if

So what about efforts to stop drinking and driving a boat?

they were wearing a personal flotation device is up for debate,

Although some states and localities have taken it upon

but it certainly wouldn’t have hurt.

themselves to enforce BUI laws, they are simply not enough law enforcement officers to make a significant difference.

Second, while USCG and NSBC and the National Association

What about national efforts?

of Safe Boating Law Administrators have been pushing the “Wear It” campaign and education efforts to inform boaters

The latest effort to enforce BUI is dubbed “Operation Dry

about the ease of wearing life jackets and how they’ve

Water (ODW),” an annual campaign focused on enforcement

changed over the years, the wear rate is miniscule, only 4-5

of BUI laws and educating all boaters about the risks of

percent, according to USCG. In short, not very many people

operating a boat under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

wear personal flotation devices when they’re on a boat.

ODW, a multi-agency, education and enforcement initiative launched by the National Association of State Boating Law

Chambers points out there’s good news and bad news about

Administrators (NASBLA) in 2009 in partnership with the

boating safety. Boats themselves have become safer over the

USCG, puts thousands of local, state and federal marine law

years. In addition, more people are being saved in distressed

enforcement officers on the water just before the Fourth of

situations than ever before because of the technology and

July to give BUI enforcement high visibility before a holiday

equipment on boats. Despite these positive signs, the number

known for drinking and boating—and deadly accidents.

of boating fatalities has not decreased.

Those caught operating a vessel under the influence will find their voyage terminated and their vessel impounded.

BOATER EDUCATION How about making boating licenses mandatory just like a driver’s license? Don’t individuals need a boating license to drive a boat just like motorists are required to have a driver’s license? It depends on where one lives. Many states require individuals to pass a boater’s exam before operating a boat.

Others simply require that an individual take a boating safety course and pass an exam. Still others require operators under the age of 16 to have a boater’s license.

What’s missing? There is no federally mandated boating license required to operate a boat. In fact, while every state and the District of Columbia requires some or all boaters to

greatlakesboating.com | 17

Penalties may also include arrest, fines, loss of boating

The USCG is committed to keeping the Great Lakes as safe

privileges, even loss of driving privileges in some states.

as possible. At the same time, it realizes that preserving life

Despite the fact that it is against federal law and most state laws for a person with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher to operate a recreational vessel, BUI continues to be a major problem in the U.S. and accounts for a disproportional number of on the water deaths. Alcohol was a contributing

on the Great Lakes is a team effort. That’s why it urges all boaters to take a boating education course and have their vessels checked by the USCG Auxiliary.

SAFETY DIRECTIVES

factor in just 6 percent of boating accidents overall, but figured

As noted earlier in this article, boating safety is everyone’s

in 16 percent of boating fatalities, according to the USCG.

responsibility, but here are four specific tips to help everyone become a safer boater.

“We want boaters to know the risks of drinking and boating,” said John Fetterman, law enforcement director for NASBLA

WEAR

and national spokesperson for ODW. “These are needless

onboard; wear it.

deaths in a recreational activity that is safe and enjoyable

DON’T

when people stay alert and follow the rules.”

boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal, so don’t

A LIFE JACKET—Don’t just have a life jacket

DRINK AND OPERATE A BOAT—Operating a

do it.

USCG EFFORTS

BE

Besides tracking the number of boating fatalities, accidents,

boating regulations and the Rules of the Road and make

and damages to property from boating accidents, USCG

sure the boat is ready for the season. Seek out available

investigates the causes of these misadventures. As noted

boating education classes and vessel safety checks, which

earlier, the USCG reports that BUI and not wearing personal

are often offered at low or no cost by local Coast Guard

flotation devices or life jackets were the two most dominant

Auxiliary flotillas.

factors in boating fatalities.

LOOKOUT

Because USCG believes that an educated boater is a smart

boaters and avoid excessive speed.

one, it looks very thoroughly into boating trends and whether

A RESPONSIBLE BOAT OWNER —Learn safe

AND LIVE —Keep a sharp lookout for other

Remember: a safe boating experience is an enjoyable one.

the people who operated boats in accidents where people died had any boating safety/education courses. The statistics in this area are enlightening. In 2010, the USCG reported that 86 percent of all boating fatalities occurred on boats where the operator had not received any boating safety/education course. It added that 76 percent of the anglers who were fishing from a boat did not take any boating safety courses.

Given its mandate to promote a safer boating experience, the USCG is pro-active in its boating safety efforts. It actively urges all recreational boaters to make sure everyone on board wears their life jackets at all times. It has come up with a strategic plan, the National Recreational Boating Safety Program 2012-2016, designed to reduce fatalities and injuries via 11 objectives and strategies. The problem with this plan is that has not been very well publicized and promoted.

18 GLB | May/June 13

All photos cour tesy of United States Coast Guard

B

ay City, Michigan is small waterfront town that lies alongside the Saginaw River, a few miles from the shallow water of Saginaw Bay. It’s a quaint city with historic charm, a real downtown and only about 33,000 people. But come July 11-14, the town’s population will jump to more than 100,000 when the Tall Ships descend on Bay City. As the only offi cial host port in the State of Michigan, Bay City will welcome the TALL SHIPS© CHALLENGE fl eet and host a tall ship event unlike any other.

The Tall Ships The summer’s Tall Ship extravaganza in Bay City will see the town host at least 11 tall ships as part of its fifth Tall Ship Celebration event, a maritime festival that has twice received ©

the Tall Ship America “Port of the Year” award. Nine of the ships, including three that have ties to the War of 1812, will be available for boarding and touring. Two additional ships will offer sailing excursions throughout the festival.

The Flagship Niagara, the namesake of a ship that played an important role in the decisive Battle of Lake Erie, is a floating commemoration of the War of 1812. Both the Pride of Baltimore II and the Lynx are interpretations of private vessels that originally sailed out of Baltimore’s Chesapeake Bay and were called into service by the United States government as

Docking in Bay City for the first time in 2013 are Sörlandet and Peacemaker. Sörlandet was built in 1927 in Norway and currently serves as a floating school ship for Class Afloat, a private Canadian school offering programs for 11th and 12th grade high school students and university courses aboard the ship as it sails the globe. Sörlandet was in the Great Lakes once before, having served as the Norwegian pavilion during the 1933 World Fair in Chicago.

Savannah, Ga., is the home of Peacemaker, a tall ship that will enter the Great Lakes for the first time in 2013. The ship was intended to be a private yacht and was built in 1989 on a riverbank in southern Brazil by a family of Italian boat builders. Peacemaker has become a seagoing representation of peace and unity.

“privateers,” essentially legal pirates that plagued British war

Rounding out the Bay City 2013 tall ship fleet are the “Twin

ships and enhanced the small U.S. Naval fleet.

Brigantines,” Pathfinder and Playfair from Toronto, Madeline

20 GLB | May/June 13

from Traverse City, Mich. and Unicorn, a ship that hails from New Jersey and is crewed entirely by women. For the last two years, Unicorn’s leadership development programs onboard the ship have focused on the daughters of deployed military personnel.

Sail a Tall Ship One of the real treats of the Bay City event is the opportunity for attendees to sail the schooner Hindu from Key West, Fla. and Bay City’s own Appledore IV. Sailing excursions will be available throughout the festival, with up to four departures

These ships are the core of the 2013 Tall Ships© Challenge

per day from Thursday, July 11 through Sunday, July 14.

fl eet. They will participate in a series of races and rallies

Those wishing to board the tall ships will have the option of

throughout the Great Lakes including port visits in Toronto,

a three-hour dinner, as well as traditional sailing adventures.

Ontario Canada (June 20 to 23); Cleveland, Ohio (July 4 to 7);

All will offer a view of the magnificent tall ship fleet from the

Bay City, Mich. (July 11 to 14); Duluth, Minn. (July 26 to 28);

water. Prices vary and reservations are required. For more

Chicago, Ill. (August 7 to 11); Green Bay, Wis. (August 16 to

information, please visit www.baysailbaycity.org.

18); and Erie, Pa. (September 6 to 8). The series this year also includes a number of smaller events in the US and Canada commemorating the War of 1812, including a September 2 re-enactment of the Battle of Lake Erie at Put-In-Bay, Ohio.

Today, most Tall Ships are owned and operated by nonprofi t organizations whose missions are grounded in environmental education and/or sail training, particularly personal development experiences for youth. Almost all make berths available for temporary crew or sail trainees.

The Maritime Festival

Regardless of age or sailing ability, most people who have the

While the ships are at the heart of the Bay City event, the

passion can live the dream and enjoy a tall ship adventure of

Celebration has much more to entertain and enlighten guests

their own. Those people interested in sailing from port-to-port

of all ages. Starting with the grand arrival of the fl eet on

aboard a tall ship this summer should visit www.sailtraining.org

Thursday, July 11, almost all of the other activities and special

or www.tallshipcelebration.com for links to the ships visiting

events that make up Tall Ship Celebration are free with a paid

Bay City.

admission to the festival.

An event within the event is the International Maritime Music

Tickets and Prices

Festival, which is a celebration of the music of the sea and

Tickets for the four-day festival are now on sale. Admission

the “chanteys” that helped crews work in unison while toiling

is $8 per person, per day. Souvenir Passports, which are

aboard square-rigged ships during the Age of Sail. In 2013,

required to board and tour each visiting tall ship one time,

the world, including Armstrong’s Patent and Nanna & Anke from the Netherlands, Mals De Mer from Belgium, Banana Boat from Poland, Warp4 from Ireland, and from the U.S. musicians Bounding Main from Illinois, The Hardtackers from

Patrick Hadley

the Tall Ship Celebration will welcome musicians from around

Ohio, and Boca Musica and Hoolie from Michigan. These same musicians will be featured Friday through Sunday evening in the “Foredeck” where guests can also fi nd a selection of Michigan craft-brewed beers.

The Ring of Steel Action Theatre will demonstrate the fine art of “Piratin” through stage productions, pirate games, crafts and basic “tom foolery.” The Ring is the largest theatrical fencing salle in the country and specializes in the art of stage combat, a multi-disciplinary art that combines acting with elements of fencing, martial arts, dance and music.

Just outside the festival entrance is the Delta College Planetarium & Learning Center that will host a free exhibit of antique etchings that feature images of people, ships and events related to the War of 1812. The collection is on loan to the Planetarium from the National Naval Archive in Washington, D.C. Professional storytellers, a giant mural, a fine art show, make and take crafts for young people and more will add to the full experience that is Tall Ship Celebration.

greatlakesboating.com | 21

Patrick Hadley

are available for an additional $8 per person before June 30

Bay City has produced Tall Ship Celebrations in 2001, 2003,

and $10 thereafter. Passports are valid for the entire festival

2006 and 2010 and won “Port of the Year” honors for its

so those persons planning on attending for several days will

efforts in 2001 and 2006. When it welcomes the Tall Ships©

only need to purchase one Passport per person. Both daily

Challenge fl eet in July 2013, Bay City will once again be

admission tickets and Souvenir Passports will be available for

the only official host port for the state of Michigan and the

purchase through the website www.tallshipcelebration.com

smallest host port in the Great Lakes.

and at the festival admission gates.

For more information about Tall Ship Celebration: Bay City,

Tall Ship Celebration: Bay City is presented by Dow Corning

visit the organization’s website www.tallshipcelebration.com.

and sponsored by St. Mary’s of Michigan, Dow Chemical Co.,

For information about planning a trip to Bay City, contact

Consumers Energy, Citizens Bank, Wildfire Credit Union and

the Great Lakes Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau at

Independent Bank.

(800) 444-9979 or visit www.visitgreatlakesbay.org.

22 GLB | May/June 13

Azimut Magellano 43HT Following the success of its new flybridge version, Azimut Yachts introduces the new Magellano 43HT, a 44-foot hardtop from the Magellano Collection. While Azimut has modifi ed the external layout, the vessel still off ers smooth navigation in all conditions in a contemporary, Italian interpretation of the traditional trawler.

greatlakesboating.com | 25

The styling of the 43HT is an ongoing collaboration between Dutch designer Cor D. Rover and the Azimut Yachts team.

Their special attention to detail has resulted in an Italian interpretation of a traditional trawler, a craft that offers a series of technical and functional features and an intelligent use of onboard space.

The Magellano Collection strives to meet the needs of a growing number of owners, who are now looking for an attractive exterior design, more contemporary interiors, and spaces that are perfect for entertaining onboard. The 43HT satisfi es this desire with its muscular, streamlined navigator look with a vertical bow, which is a distinctive feature of the Magellano line. The interiors have canaletto walnut cabinets, while light-colored fabric inserts adorn the doors, contributing to the boat’s airiness.

To insure reduced pitching and a signifi cant mitigation of wave impact, this Azimut has a “dual-mode” hull that pairs the rounded forms of the keel line with broad, hard chines and a large capacity in the forward section that culminates in a vertical bow. The ultimate effect of this engineering design

Specifications

is navigation that’s extremely smooth and comfortable at any

LOA Beam Draft Max Speed (at half load) Max Cruising Speed (at half load) Fuel Capacity Water Capacity

44’9”

speed and in any weather condition, even in heavy seas.

14’5”

In addition, the hull’s design also produces greater efficiency

3’11”

at low and medium speeds compared to a planing hull

18-22 Knots

of equal displacement and length at the waterline. Thus,

14-18 Knots

operators are able to reduce fuel consumption, even at

443 Gals.

cruising speeds of between 14 and 18 knots.

158 Gals.

THE INTERIOR

T

he 43 HT can hold up to 443 gallons of fuel, allowing for long voyages at 9 to 10 knots and the comfort of a displacement boat. At the same time, the boat can

The salon of the 43 was designed for comfort, convenience, and social interaction.

perform like a planing boat, using its twin Cummins QSB 5.9

A comfortable and spacious C-shaped sofa is located

engines available in 305 or 355 hp to accelerate to top speeds

forward, right next to the helmsman’s station, in order to

of between 18 and 22 knots.

create a unified area that encompasses both guests and the

The 43HT is the first Magellano equipped with a hardtop rather than a fl ybridge, making it well-suited for inland waterways. Its low height clearance enables the boat to navigate smoothly under fi xed bridges on main rivers and

captain at the helm. The helmsman’s seat pivots to integrate with the dinette area, offering additional seating. The galley is positioned toward the stern in order to efficiently serve the interior dinette as well as the cockpit’s dining area.

canals. In addition, a folding mast is available to allow the

While maintaining a shaft-line system, better adapted to

boat to further lower its clearance for the lowest of overhead

the propulsion needs of an all-weather boat, the two cabins

navigating obstacles. (With the mast down, the minimum

intended for the owner and guests respectively, are both

height clearance from the waterline is only 11 feet.) For

equipped with heads featuring a separate shower. A third

boaters who like sunlight and fresh air, the hardtop has four

room, starboard, can be converted into a third cabin with

glass windows, two of which open.

a single bed or used as additional storage space.

26 GLB | May/June 13

Father’s Day fishing gifts

This Father’s Day, celebrate dad’s fi shing spirit by netting him some new gear from Rapala®. Choose from a wide selection of must-have lures, tools and accessories at your local sporting goods store or visit www.rapala.com.

RAPALA® SCATTER RAP® The patent-pending Scatter Rap® Series flaunts classic balsa body shapes and has a new Scatter Lip, which creates an industry first ‘evasive action.’

The Scatter Rap brings game-changing action to the water produced by an innovative and uniquely designed curved lip, which perfectly mimics a spooked baitfish fleeing attack, triggering bite after bite.

and new color patterns and comes in four silhouettes, including the Scatter Rap® Crank, Scatter Rap® Minnow,

Ideal for bass and other multispecies gamefish, the Scatter

Scatter Rap® Shad and Scatter Rap® CountDownw.

Rap series can be cast or trolled, is available in 14-16 classic Suggested retail price: $8.99

STORM® SMASH SHAD A shad-style bait, the Smash Shad is packed full of action and is ideal for all fishermen. In the water, it portrays a deliberate, steady cadence on the swim with a stable rolling action at all speeds, bringing fish in for the bite.

The Smash Shad is available in 22 enticing colors, including six

SUFIX®832 – CAMO AND HI-VIS YELLOW FISHING LINE For bass anglers trying to match vegetation for the

UV Bright Finishes.

perfect blending technique, Camo 832 is the line Suggested retail price: $4.99

for the job. For saltwater anglers, Hi-Vis Yellow 832 provides the strength and abrasion resistance, paired with a new high-visibility color, creating a do-it-all line for any saltwater application.

Suggested retail price: $21.99 (150 yd.), $39.99 (300 yd.) and $69.99 (600 yd.)

RAPALA.COM Choose apparel specifically designed for different outdoor occasions, from the boat to a night on the town. Overnight shipping (if ordered before 1 p.m. CST) is available.

Visit www.rapala.com for pricing. greatlakesboating.com | 27

SAFELY NAVIGATING LOCKS

By Joseph Carro U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Division

N

HOW LOCKS WORK

avigating the intricacies of “locking” isn’t something boaters encounter every day, even in the Great Lakes region, but it’s a reality they’re

likely to encounter at one time or another, so it’s important to understand the basics.

Navigation locks are among the world’s oldest

This example shows a boat “locking up.”

engineering achievements, dating as far back as 960 A.D., during China’s Song Dynasty. Since that time, engineers have developed many ways to build locks, but they all serve basically the same purpose, that is, they function as marine elevators that move boats from a body of water at one height to a body of water at another height. Although there are some locks in the Great Lakes and upstate New York, the heaviest

The boat floats into the lock and the lower gate is closed.

concentration of locks in the U.S. is along the nation’s large river systems: the upper Mississippi River, the Ohio River, and the Columbia River through Oregon and Washington state.

One of the first things boaters need to know about navigating locks is the issue of right of way. Vessels operated by the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have priority over recreational boats at all times and, for safety reasons, larger

Valves are opened at the top end of the lock, allowing water from the upstream side into the lock chamber.

vessels, like barges, take precedence over smaller ones. And two small vessels can use the lock at the same time, so share the space. It’s not only good boating etiquette, but it also saves time and water.

It’s best for boaters to learn as much as they can about a specifi c lock before they try to navigate through, because lock facilities vary in size and

As the lock fills with water, the boat floats up until the gate on the

operation. Some have lockkeepers, who provide the

upstream side can be opened and the boat floats out.

operators with instructions once they’ve entered the lock. Others are unmanned, in which case boaters are on their own. Many locks operate on specific time schedules, and boaters should know that in advance to avoid too much waiting. A good source of information on locks is a nautical chart of the area, which will not only indicate a lock’s location, but also the width and length of the lock chamber. Other useful resources are cruising guides of the waterways you’ll be traveling.

28 GLB | May/June 13

“Locking down” is a similar process, except that the valves on the downstream side let water out of the lock chamber until the water is the same level as the downstream side.

As a general safety precaution, everyone on the boat should always wear their life jackets and make sure no one in the boat is standing on the foredeck or on the roof when it’s passing through a lock. Every passenger onboard, including pets, should remain well inside the vessel and away from the sides. Locks can be very narrow, and any slight bump against the sides can throw people overboard. For this and other obvious reasons, boaters should never use locks at dusk or after dark when it’s difficult to see and maneuver properly.

Boaters preparing to go through a lock should be sure their vessels are equipped with at least two lines that are 50 feet long. Boaters will need this to moor their vessels to the floating mooring bits (posts) on the lock chamber wall that move up and down as the water level rises or falls. Once the boat has entered the chamber, boaters should be sure to put fenders over the side to keep it from scraping the lock wall or another vessel.

When boaters are in the vicinity of locks, they should pay close attention and adhere to all posted signs. They should listen carefully to the instructions from the lock operator and be alert to everything that’s going on around them.

Finally, obey the rules. Those who operate locks have seen boaters do crazy things when locking through, such as entering waters where they shouldn’t be and cutting in front of barges. The latter can be particularly dangerous because barge operators can’t always see the smaller vessels, and they may be unable to stop. The procedures for navigating locks are there for a reason—everyone’s safety.

HOW TO SAFELY NAVIGATE A LOCK • If boaters are unfamiliar with the area, they should do some research beforehand. A good thing would be to purchase at a local marina or marine supply store a cruising guide of the waters in which they’ll be operating. Note the location of the lock, how to best contact the lockmaster, and any other information that will help the vessel pass through without mishap.

• Using the VHF-FM marine band radio, boaters should inform the lock ahead of time to signal their intention to pass. It’s also a good idea to get information about the current status of the lock’s operation. For small boats, there’s usually a small bell or buzzer near the approach to signal their arrival.

• To protect the hull from the rough surface of the lock’s walls, position multiple fenders along the sides of the boat. The lock walls and guide ropes tend to be slippery, so the operator and crewmembers may want to wear protective gloves.

greatlakesboating.com | 29

Better Electronics Better Boating

By Jerome A. Koncel

I

f there’s any one sector of the boating industry that constantly responds to the quest for new, innovative, and exciting products, that area is marine electronics.

And this year is no exception to that rule.

BEST SELLERS Among the fastest moving pieces of marine electronics equipment being sold to boaters this year are safety-related electronics. “Safety sells,” said Scott Heffernan, sales

Marine electronics manufacturers are not sitting still when

manager at the GPS Store, Inc., one of the country’s largest

it comes to providing new and innovative equipment for

retailers of marine electronics.

recreational boaters and anglers. What was new last year may be considered old by some boaters, but as with many new technologies, it takes time to work out the kinks and glitches.

As a result, the first manufacturer with new technology has an advantage over competitors, but the last one into the fray may achieve long-lasting advantages.

30 GLB | May/June 13

Through the first quarter of this year, Heffernan said that safety-related electronics have been among the hottest sellers at The GPS Store in North Carolina, as well as on its website. Asked why there’s such an interest in these products, Heffernan replied, “There has been so much innovation in

this area, with products getting smaller and more affordable.

And no matter how well equipped a boat is with electronics already, there is always an incentive to increase safety on the water using the latest technology. We also see more families and friends purchasing safety gear for their loved ones, because they want them to come home safely.”

Among the safety-related marine electronics equipment, the fastest sellers have been the new crop of Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and personal locator beacons (PLBs), both of which are vital pieces of equipment in speeding rescue teams to boaters in emergency situations. EPIRBs alert rescue authorities to the vessel’s location anywhere on the Great Lakes, in fact, anywhere in the world. PLBs notify search and rescue entities to the individual’s location in distress situations. PLBs equipped with GPS provide rescuers with the exact latitude and longitude of the distressed individuals.

them in the dark, in the fog, or around the bend of a river.

Although many boaters believe the GPS locators on their

Boaters can also call up information on AIS-equipped

smartphones are all they need in emergencies, this is not

vessels and use this information in a variety of ways to

true. Although the GPS locators are very useful in helping

improve safety in congested waterways,” said Schneider.

people in emergencies, when boaters are out on the water, the only sure thing they can depend on as a secure means of communication are EPIRBs. Simply activate the device, and know that help is on the way.

CHIRP TECHNOLOGY If there’s one technology that seems to be the talk of the boating and fishing world, it’s the introduction of compressed

Another electronics tool that has emerged in recent years

high-intensity radar pulse (CHIRP) technology. Marine

and is now considered standard electronic safety equipment

Electronics Journal described this new technology as a

for recreational boaters is an automatic identification system

“game-changer” in terms of its impact on fishing. Power and

(AIS). In simple terms, AIS lets boaters see and identify

MotorYacht said CHIRP transducers are “revolutionizing”

boaters by broadcasting a signal, and it lets those boaters see

the fishfinder industry. For now, it’s a new technology with

your vessel (see Great Lakes Boating, Sept./Oct. 2012, pg 34).

a premium price that will change the way serious fishermen

Because AIS works on VHF, it doesn’t depend on clear line of

identify and target their game fish.

sight like radar. Commercial vessels have used this equipment

Prior to CHIRP, conventional sonar sent out a single pulse

for some time, but technology has now made it more

over one frequency, typically 50 or 200 kHz. The transmitted

affordable to recreational boaters. Boaters should consider

pulse is a short duration one, a ping, so the amount of energy

purchasing VHF technology with built-in AIS, such as that

transmitted into the water is limited. When it returned, the

currently being offered by Standard Horizon, as part of their

results would show bottom lines and fi sh, but would lump

new boat package or when they’re upgrading their radios.

images of fish together as one image. If there were multiple

“Having this type of technology, along with items like

fish underwater, they would be lumped together.

emergency floating handheld VHF radios, personal strobe

CHIRP technology modulates the pulse sent out across a

lights and other products in a fl oating ‘ditch bag’ gives

range of frequencies. CHIRP’s long-duration pulse puts

boaters—and their families—peace of mind. And that is

more energy on the target, sounding like chirps, resulting in

always a wise investment,” added Heffernan.

improved separation and detail. For serious sportsfishermen,

Allen Schneider, vice president/sales, SI-TEX, said AIS equipment is “selling like hot cakes,” and this trend should continue throughout the year. “Connected with today’s

CHIRP technology allows them to identify where the fish are at, the type of fish, i.e., whether they are big or small, and provide both at a far better range or depth.

modern chartplotters, AIS provides the added safety

Garmin and Simrad were the fi rst two manufacturers to

of seeing other AIS-equipped vessels and being seen by

incorporate CHIRP technology into their fi shfi nders, i.e.

greatlakesboating.com | 31

Garmin’s GSD-26 (retail price of $2,000) and Simrad’s BSM-2

Dragonfly is engineered for simple operation with automatic

(retail price of $2,495). The most recent introduction into the

sonar optimization and a single controller that lets anglers

field is Furuno’s DFF!-UHD, a CHIRP-enabled fishfinder.

quickly dial through DownVision, sonar and GPS menu

Furuno says its fi shfi nder is designed to operate over a broadband range of frequencies utilizing a broadband transducer. It transmits and receives pulses across a range of

displays. Dragonfl y’s built-in 50-channel GPS is available with Navionics Silver charts or Gold small chart downloads for inland and coastal waters.

90 frequencies within each transmission. What separates this

Another example of small but powerful electronics

unit from others are the Accu-Fish and Bottom Discrimination

equipment are the multifunction display (MFD) units

Mode (BDM) features. The Accu-Fish assesses and analyzes

from Furuno, the GP1670F, which offers a 5.7-inch color

the fi sh details to provide the angler with the approximate

LCD, and the GP1870F, which offers a larger 7-inch

size of the fish. The BDM tells the angler the makeup of the

wide-format screen. Each unit delivers all the capabilities

bottom, whether it be sand, gravel, rocks, or mud.

customers expect from contemporary GPS chartplotters,

MORE

including hi-sensitivity internal GPS, quick chart redraws,

POWERFUL UNIT

simple operation, C-Map’s latest 4D cartography and

Tom Surran, Raymarine’s general manager, pointed out

easy-routing capability.

that electronics manufacturers are now producing smaller,

What makes these combo products different from other MFD

yet more powerful electronics equipment to fit the space

units is their powerful fishfinder capabilities. The GP1670F

limitations on boats. The smaller, but more powerful pieces

and GP1870F not only incorporate Furuno’s unparalleled,

of equipment are a real boon to boaters.

multi award-winning fishfinder functionality, but also feature

Raymarine’s latest entry into this market is the high-

their groundbreaking BDM, Accu-Fish, and Post-Processing

performance Dragonfly™ Sonar/GPS that brings the power

Gain technology. Until now, the tremendous benefits of these

and crisp detail of advanced CHIRP sonar to inland and

proprietary fish finding technologies were only available in

coastal anglers at a very affordable price. The stand-alone

Furuno’s dedicated fishfinder products.

Dragonfly is a dual-beam CHIRP sonar and GPS chartplotter in one and is ideal for smaller boats of almost any kind.

Surran says that Dragonfly’s DownVision™ sonar technology organizes the return pulses into a photo-like image of the underwater. “It lets anglers explore the structure and target fish like never before,” Surran said. Dragonfly is built with two discrete CHIRP-enabled sonar channels. One is the ultra high-resolution DownVision channel and the other is the highresolution sonar channel targeting fish.

32 GLB | May/June 13

WHAT’S NEXT By the time this article reaches your hands, marine electronics manufacturers and producers will be well on their way in developing new and exciting products that will change the marine electronics marketplace. From numerous reports and surveys, it seems clear that the next area for development will be smartphones and tablets and apps.

Look forward to future developments.

Last Ditch Effort M

ost experienced boaters have heard stories about boating disasters, such as vessels suddenly capsizing, sinking or even catching fire far from

help and/or the reach of other boaters. These misadventures usually share a few things in common: the crews began the day without a care in the world and things (sometimes several things) go wrong quickly. At the moment boaters realize this really is happening to them, there is no amount of money they wouldn’t pay for having the proper safety gear.

“Safety gear, particularly modern rescue electronics, can literally make the difference between life and death,” said Scott Heffernan, sales manager for The GPS Store, Inc. “There are many stories with happy endings, where families were saved because they had planned for that worse case scenario by preparing a ditch bag with items to help them be found by rescuers,” added Heffernan.

Ditch bags contain those items that boaters need in the event of an emergency. They are designed to keep safety electronics and survival gear organized and ready for immediate abandon ship situations. They are meant to “grab and go” when boaters only have seconds to get in the water or life raft. This floating bag and its contents then become the lifeline.

WHAT SHOULD BE

INCLUDED?

Here are some of the things that should be packed inside:

EMERGENCY POSITION INDICATING R ADIO BEACON (EPIRB): Boaters should pack an EPIRB like the ACR Global Fix Pro in a ditch bag to notify the Coast Guard and local Search and Rescue teams of the emergency and provide the GPS position over two separate frequencies, i.e., 406MHz and 121.5MHz, respectively. Some EPIRBS are meant to be manually deployed, while others activate automatically if the vessel sinks. These are required equipment on many commercial and passenger vessels, and for good reason.

PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACON (PLB):

PLBs like

the new ACR ResQLink are small but powerful rescue aids.

Much like an EPIRB, the PLB broadcasts a 406MHz satellite distress signal to the Coast Guard and a separate homing signal for local Search and Rescue authorities to pinpoint the boater's position. precise positioning. Prepared boaters should have an EPIRB While the ResQLink is small enough to attach to a flotation

for the vessel and a PLB for each person aboard because

vest, it boasts an accurate 66-channel internal GPS for

individual crew may end up miles apart in an emergency.

34 GLB | May/June 13

EMERGENCY HANDHELD VHF:

An emergency

handheld VHF, such as Standard Horizon’s HX851 handheld, is designed for use in ditch bags. It comes with a Digital Selective Calling (DSC) distress button and built-in GPS that alerts all DSC-equipped vessels in range of the distressed vessel's position. This is a vital piece of equipment for emergencies because nearby boats are a boater's best shot at quick rescue. A fully functioning waterproof VHF lets the boater talk with rescuers and other vessels. The HX851 also floats, glows in the dark, and has a built-in strobe light that automatically activates when the radio gets wet.

LIGHTS: Being rescued takes on a whole new sense of urgency when darkness arrives. In the darkness, boaters must be seen to be found, regardless of the electronic aids they have at their disposal. For these reasons, a stocked ditch bag should contain plenty of emergency strobe lights. The ACR’s RapidFire vest strobe, for example, is designed to attach to each crewmember’s life jacket and activate with a pull-pin. This tiny light puts out a bright flash and

operates for eight continuous hours, which can make a big difference in surviving.

PERSPECTIVE Although this list of ditch bag items seems fairly complete, it is just some of the equipment that goes into a well-stocked ditch bag.

Other things boaters might include are: * whistles and signal mirrors to help the distressed boaters get seen and be heard by nearby boats and rescuers * water packs, flashlights, duct tape, glow sticks, protein bars and sunglasses for comfort and safety.

For more information on ditch bags and safety equipment, contact The GPS Store, Inc. at 800-477-2611 or visit www.TheGPSStore.com.

greatlakesboating.com | 35

Great Lakes

MIDWEST’S LARGEST IN-WATER BOAT SHOW SET FOR CHICAGO

This year’s 2013 show includes: • Free powerboat and sailing lessons at the Discover Boating Dock where attendees have the opportunity to learn everything from boating safety to advanced docking and precision control.

• Kayak and stand up paddleboat (SUP) lessons and demonstrations will take place at the Jump In Lake Michigan! Cool off at Try it Cove.

• Attendees can learn how to scuba dive at the DEMA ‘Be a Diver Pool.’ At a heated, tropical pool, individuals will Great Lakes boaters will be happy to know that the Progressive Insurance Chicago In-Water Boat Show, will be held June 13-16 at 31st Street Harbor, Chicago’s newest

be provided with scuba gear, and certifi ed instructors will offer lessons on how to scuba dive. The only thing learners need to bring is a swimsuit.

state-of-the-art marina.

The 2013 Progressive Insurance In-Water Boat Show will be The second annual in-water boat show, the largest of its kind in the Midwest, will feature more than 150 recreational powerboats and sailboats for sale, dozens of vendors showcasing the latest in marine accessories and gear

open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The admission price is $10 for adults, and children 15 years and younger will be admitted free of charge.

and attractions for all ages on land and water, including ChicagoInWaterBoatShow.com

free paddlesports on Lake Michigan, and on-water boater education programs for boaters with all levels of experience.

NORTHERN MICHIGAN BOATING EXCURSIONS This summer, Unsalted Sailing, an organized but unaffiliated

“Unsalted Sailing Flotilla” takes place August 10-16 and

flotilla, will explore the islands, beaches, towns and harbors

welcomes people of all levels of sailing skill.

of Northern Michigan in the comfort and safety of sailing with others. Individuals can sail their own boat; charter a boat from the Bay Breeze fl eet; take an American Sailing Association course along the way; or simply book a double cabin and leave the driving to an experienced captain.

Two excursions are planned for this summer:

Participants will harbor hop in Grand Traverse and Little Traverse Bays with expected visits to Suttons Bay, Northport, Charlevoix, Omena Bay, Elk Rapid or Old Mission Harbor, Bower’s Harbor and Marion Island.

There will be boating presentations, wine tasting, nature hikes and the “Twisted Sheet Regatta.” The ASA 101/103

“Unsalted Island Hopping” takes place June 22-28 and

combo course and the 104 course will be offered. Visit

provides everyone with the opportunity to explore the

www.bbyc.com/unsalted-events/unsalted-sailing-flotilla.

Manitou Islands, Beaver Island, High Island, Holy Island, Mackinac Island, Marion Island, the Les Cheneaux Islands and possibly cross over into Door County, Wis. Participants will hike, kayak, browse island towns and explore deserted islands. These events are for intermediate to advanced skill levels as the passages are longer and involve sailing at night at least once. ASA 104, 105 and 106 certifications classes will be offered as well. Visit www.bbyc.com/unsalted-island-hopping.

36 GLB | May/June 13

All excursions are now open to powerboats.

Call 231-941-0535 or email baybreeze@bbyc.com for pricing and more details.

MICHIGAN APPROVES EMERGENCY DREDGING FUNDS Gov. Rick Snyder of Michigan signed legislation on March

In March, the state legislature, acting on a recommendation

27 allowing for $21 million in state funds to be used for

from the governor, approved emergency funding as a

emergency dredging of Michigan harbors and marinas.

supplemental funding request and then made some financial

Record low lake levels on the Great Lakes and Lake St. Clair

transfers before the money could be spent.

prompted the Michigan state legislature to consider and approve the emergency funding.

The dredging program would remove accumulated sediments at the bottom of waterways to maintain adequate depth for

“As the Great Lakes State, we need to ensure the availability

shipping and boating. To determine which locations would get

of our beautiful waterways to boaters to support tourism,

the funds, the Dept. of Natural Resources surveyed 83 public

local communities, the state economy and safe boating,” said

recreational boating harbors and 58 locations will receive

Snyder. “I thank the Legislature for approving these funds in

emergency money for dredging.

time for the boating season.”

BAY HARBOR LAKE MARINA TO HOST BOAT SHOW for sale at the event. There will also be on-land displays with exhibitors presenting an array of items, including smaller watercrafts, pontoons, boating fashions, kayaks and boating accessories. In-water product demonstrations will also be available at the show.

Admission to the show is free, making this the perfect way to spend the day with dad over Father’s Day weekend. Visitors to the in-water show will be able to stroll the docks, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a wonderful summer day.

The show will be open on Friday, June 14, from noon to 8 p.m.; Saturday, June 15, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, June 16, Bay Harbor Lake Marina in Bay Harbor, Mich., will host its 11th

from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Annual In-Water Boat Show on June 14 –16, 2013.

bayharbor.com // 231-439-2544

Patrons can expect to see a range of one-of-a-kind exhibitors this year, offering everything from yachts to boating goods

CLIMATE CHANGE AND WATER QUALITY STUDY Michigan Sea Grant (MSG) is leading the outreach and

about climate and water quality. CEDO is organizing a six-

education component of a five-year project focusing on

week, inquiry-based study at the New Tech High School in

climate change and water quality. Researchers are using

Ypsilanti, Mich. Teachers and students will participate in

the western basin of Lake Erie and the Maumee River

both classroom and experiential learning, including a cruise

watershed as a case study that may be applicable to

sponsored by MSG.

other areas in the Great Lakes, such as Saginaw Bay and Green Bay.

Researchers will continue gathering and analyzing data about the increasing intensity of spring storms and their

There are four main parts to the project that addresses

timing relative to agricultural practices, such as fertilizer

weather and climate, land use and water quality. Michigan

application. This connection between heavy and more

Sea Grant (MSG) and others based at the U-M School of

frequent storms, agricultural practices, population, land

Natural Resources and Environment (SNRE), are leading

use and water quality may be a key factor to the increased

three of the four components of this project.

amount of phosphorus entering Lake Erie.

MSG is working with the U-M Center for Engineering Diversity and Outreach (CEDO) to promote science-based learning

greatlakesboating.com | 37

Great Lakes

ASIAN CARP UNLIKELY IN BARGE BALLAST TANKS There is little chance that Asian carp could be transported

Study results showed that while it may be possible for early

and introduced into the Great Lakes by barge ballast tanks,

life stages to be transported in a barge ballast tank for long

according to a study conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard

periods, the likelihood that these life stages would survive

Research and Development Center in coordination with the

passage through the pump when the tanks are deballasted is

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

very low. The risk is further reduced because early life stages

There has been concern that Asian carp eggs, larvae and fry contained in towboat and barge ballast tanks could be carried

are only present in the affected waterways for a limited time each year.

past electrical dispersal barriers operated by the U.S. Army

Funding for the study came from the Great Lakes

Corps of Engineers and released into the Great Lakes.

Restoration Initiative, a multi-department effort embracing 11

To determine the validity of this concept, researchers investigated the early life stages of Asian carp entering barge ballast tanks through either cracks or holes in the hull and

federal departments and using Great Lakes research and restoration efforts to rehabilitate the health and well-being of the ecosystem.

then seeing if they could survive there, thereby bypassing the existing electrical dispersal barriers in the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal.

ICONIC RACEBOAT TO BE LOANED Designed by Douglas van Patten and built in 1938 by Greavette Boatworks, Miss Canada III will be placed on special loan from the Antique Boat Museum (ABM) for the summer of 2013. Described by Motor Boating Magazine in the 1938 Detroit Gold Cup Race as being “beautifully handled and the most perfect running boat,” Miss Canada III was widely regarded to be in an elite class of hydroplanes.

In 1939, Miss Canada III was declared the 7 Litre Class World Champion as she won the President’s Cup. In 1947, Miss Canada III set the 7 Litre Class World Speed Record at 119 The Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, N.Y., is planning to

mph. Then in 1948, using a new Rolls Royce Merlin engine,

loan Miss Canada III, a former World Champion raceboat,

she would go on to win Detroit’s Silver Cup Regatta.

to the Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre located in Gravenhurst, Ontario, Canada.

Miss Canada III will return to Canada where it will be united with another Canadian racing masterpiece, Miss Canada IV,

Miss Canada III will be the centerpiece of the Centre’s

which will be the feature boat at this year’s Antique & Classic

“Race Boat Glory, Muskoka Legends Live On,” this

Boat Show, July 4 to 7 at Muskoka Wharf. Miss Canada IV was

summer’s leading commemorative exhibit.

built in the late 1940s and she would excel to speeds of more than 200 mph.

WINNETKA (IL) RESIDENTS MAY LOSE BOAT RAMP Boaters from Wilmette (Ill.) who use the town’s only boat ramp

Park district officials said the water near the ramp must be

may face a closed ramp this boating season if water levels

at least three feet deep for the park district to allow boat

don’t change quickly.

launching. At press deadline, the water level was just barely

Barring signifi cant rainfall, the Lloyd Park boat ramp in Winnetka could be closed this boating season due to the low water level and sand accumulation, park district officials said. At press deadline, water levels were up, but how much was still to be determined.

38 GLB | May/June 13

reaching three feet. If the ramp is closed, boaters would be forced to take their vessels north to either Waukegan or Lake Forest.

HAGERTY CLASSIC INSURANCE Headquartered in Traverse City, Mich., Hagerty pioneered the

Price Guide in 2012. Comprised of the most popular classic

first classic wooden boat insurance program in 1984 when

boats, pricing information has been assembled by valuation

other insurance companies still deemed vintage wooden boats

experts utilizing a number of sources including private sales,

uninsurable. The Hagertys were vintage boat enthusiasts and

auction data, insured values and data from classic boat

understood firsthand the extreme care owners give their prized

dealers. To use the Hagerty Classic Boat Price Guide, or

possessions. The Hagerty Agreed Value policy was developed

for more information, visit www.hagerty.com/valueyourboat.

specifically to meet the unique needs of classic boats (wood and fiberglass) and allows policyholders to receive the full monetary value of their vessel in the event of a total loss.

Hagerty offers a multitude of resources catering to the needs of classic boat enthusiasts including the aforementioned price guide and a youth outreach program dedicated to the

Hagerty has since grown into the leading provider of collector

future of the hobby and geared toward getting young people

boat insurance in the world and features low premiums,

involved in this industry.

fl exible navigation with no fi xed limits, unlimited land transportation, club discounts and in-house claims handlers who work exclusively with classic boats.

Applying similar principles to automobiles, Hagerty expanded into the collector vehicle insurance market in 1991. Today, Hagerty is the world’s leading provider of classic car

“Growing up along Lake Michigan, our family has a great

insurance and offers coverage in all 50 states, as well as

appreciation for why this region is so appealing to boaters,”

the UK and Canada. They also publish Hagerty Classic Cars

says McKeel Hagerty, President and CEO of Hagerty. “As

magazine, the largest circulated collector vehicle magazine,

owners and restorers of classic boats, we had the same need

as well as the Hagerty Price Guide, which tracks current

for specialized insurance coverage, and when it didn’t exist

values on the most popularly traded classic cars.

we created our own product.”

www.hagertymarine.com // 800-762-2628

In addition to insurance for qualifying classic and wooden boats, Hagerty launched the first-ever Hagerty Classic Boat

greatlakesboating.com | 39

Fishing

FISH IN DRUG-TAINTED WATERS SUFFER REACTIONS Fish swimming in drug-tainted waters, especially those

The Swedish research paper was just another study

where anti-anxiety drugs are commonplace, will suffer

pointing to the mounting evidence that pharmacueticals

adverse reactions, becoming more aggressive and anti-

are environmental contaminants. It appears that miniscule

social, according to a Swedish research study published

amounts of medicine put into rivers and streams can alter

in Science. The university researchers indicated these

the behavior of fish and other mammals.

reactions could threaten the existing fish population and

The Swedish research team said it is highly unlikely that

upset the dynamics of the marine environment.

eating such drug-exposed fish would harm humans. Jonnson

The research team put young wild perch into an aquarium,

noted that a person would have to eat four tons of perch to

exposed them to waters with highly diluted anti-anxiety

consume the equivalent of a single pill put into the water.

drugs, and then measured their feeding, schooling, and hiding behavior. “They became asocial and more active than they should be,” said Michael Jonsson.

MINNESOTA DNR CHANGES LAKE REGS Mille Lacs Area Tourism

In addition to new walleye regulations, the lake’s 27- to 40-inch protected slot regulation for northern pike will be narrowed to a 33- to 40-inch protected slot, with only one pike longer than 40 inches. The possession limit is three.

Similarly, the smallmouth bass bag limit and slot limit will be broadened to allow for more harvest. The new regulation is a 17- to 20-inch protected slot. The possession limit is six, with only one longer than 20 inches in possession.

The new regulations aim to keep the total walleye kill below

Minnesota’s Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR) implemented

the combined state-tribal 2013 safe harvest level of 250,000

regulations that will limit the harvest of walleye and potentially

pounds. Fishing regulations may be adjusted if angler kill is

increase the harvest of northern pike and smallmouth bass

expected to be either too high or lower than anticipated. This

on Mille Lacs Lake as part of an effort to rebuild the lake’s

year’s safe harvest level is the lowest established since treaty

walleye population.

management began in 1997.

When the walleye season opens May 11, anglers will be able

The fundamental concern for fi sh managers is that not

to keep walleye only between 18- and 20-inches or longer

enough walleye are becoming big walleye because of

than 28 inches. All others must be immediately released. The

increased mortality rates. A secondary concern is that

possession limit is two, with only one longer than 28 inches.

mature male walleye numbers have decreased. www.mndnr.gov/millelacslake

BOOK FISHING GUIDES AND CHARTERS IN REAL-TIME A partnership between WFN: World Fishing Network, and

the continental United States, Mexico, Canada, Brazil, South

ReserveFishing.com, the world’s first real-time fishing guide

Africa, Belize and more. Through this partnership, visitors

booking system, allows visitors to WorldFishingNetwork.com

to WorldFishingNetwork.com can compare fishing guides

to research, compare and book a fi shing guide in a matter

by price, specialties, ratings and more. Using a calendar,

of minutes.

visitors can instantly see who’s available on the dates they

ReserveFishing.com is a one-stop-shop for charter and guided fi shing trips in almost every fi shing destination in

40 GLB | May/June 13

want to fish. They can then reserve a fishing trip in minutes, thereby eliminating the need for phone calls and back-andforth emails.

KID FRIENDLY FISHING NEWS COMING TO DNR WEBSITE When Michigan’s Dept. of Natural Resources asked parents if

At press deadline, the project had amassed more than 40

they knew about friendly fishing places for eight-year old kids,

vetted locations. To get more sites, DNR is asking anglers

most answered “No.”

and angling families to submit their favorite fishing spots to

This parental response prompted state fisheries managers to develop a family friendly fishing Web site that was launched just before the 2013 fishing season.

“There are a lot of families who don’t know where to go to

the DNR Website: www.dnr.state.mi.us, click on Fishing, and then proceed to “Family Friendly Fishing Waters.”

Dexter said the state DNR will list all the amenities at each site, such as bathrooms and playgrounds, making it easy for parents to know what is

start fishing,” said Jim Dexter, chief of fisheries for the DNR.

there. Making this information

“Our concept is to identify a few locations in every county in

available to beginning anglers

the state. No matter where you live, if you’ve thought about

is extremely helpful to getting

fishing, you could find a place that’s been vetted that tells you

them involved in fishing at a

what’s available and how to fish for them,” Dexter added.

young age.

LUND’S TOURNAMENT CONTINGENCY BONUS Contingency—the term implies a possibility, a chance. But the

At each of four NWT events, as well as the AIM contest in

truth is, from the earliest walleye tournaments more than

Oconto, Wis., Lund will write a cool $1,000 check to the

30 years ago to today’s progressive contests, the possibility

highest placing Lund angler. Additionally, the second highest

of a Lund angler taking the top check is better described as a

placing Lund fi nisher will win an extra $750. And the third

“likelihood,” even a near certainty.

placing Lund-runner will walk away with $500.

That’s because throughout the history of walleye competitions,

*To activate Lund Boats’ tournament contingency bonuses,

successful tournament anglers have captained Lund boats.

each tournament requires a minimum field of 65 boats/teams.

Just in time for walleye tournament season, Lund Boats is offering pot-sweetening bonus checks to the highest placing

Qualifying anglers must fish from a 2009 or newer model Lund Boat throughout the duration of the event.

Lund anglers on both the Cabela’s National Walleye Tour (NWT) and AIM Pro Walleye circuits—the “contingency” is that top finishers must run a Lund Boat.*

GET REDUCED RATE ON TWINS TICKETS Kids and adults who have a 2013 Minnesota fishing license

Those who want to buy discount tickets should go to

can buy discounted tickets online to six Minnesota Twins

www.mndnr.gov/twins and enter the transaction number,

baseball games and receive a free regulation blaze orange

which is printed on the license. A limited number of tickets

Twins logo baseball cap as part of a special promotion with

are available for each game and will be reserved on a first-

the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

come, first-served basis. The offer is available online only.

The special rate started with the April 13 home game against

Minnesota 2013 fishing licenses can be purchased online

the New York Mets. It also includes home games on April

at www.mndnr.gov/buyalicense.

27-28 against the Texas Rangers, Aug. 3 against the Houston Astros, Aug. 18 against the Chicago White Sox and Sept. 7 against the Toronto Blue Jays. Discounted ticket prices range from $12 to $20, depending on the game.

greatlakesboating.com | 41

Marinas

NEW BUFFALO MARINA DREDGING

The first of these was a municipal grant of $200,000 from the Pokagon Fund, which had previously made a $150,000 grant to the city for the dredging of the municipal harbor and the river.

In late February, two state legislators from the area brought more good news to the city. They said the state’s Emergency Dredging Fund included $1 million for the dredging of the New Buffalo Municipal Marina. This money was expected to arrive in time for the dredging project to be completed in time for the opening of the 2013 boating season. In a subsequent press release, the state DNR said that it would waive the requirement that local governments match the funds The city of New Buffalo, Mich., announced at its Feb. 19

appropriated to them by the state.

city council meeting that it had secured permits from the

The municipal marina has a significant economic impact on

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Michigan Dept. of

New Buffalo. The harbor generates more than $7.7 million

Environmental Quality to do emergency dredging of its

in annual revenue throughout the area, which supports 130

municipal harbor and the shallow areas of the Gallen River

jobs, and those jobs generate $2.5 million annually in labor

used by boaters to travel between the city’s harbor and

income (New Buffalo Harbor Fact Sheet, U.S. Army Corps of

Lake Michigan.

Engineers, 2010.)

In the weeks following the meeting, the city council

At press deadline, the dredging work was near completion.

announced two major funding sources for the dredging.

SHEBOYGAN RIVER MORE NAVIGABLE habitat restoration projects. It resulted in 400,000 cubic yards of sediment being removed, reducing health threats to people, fish and wildlife, improving fish and wildlife habitats, increasing recreation and economic opportunities, and improving the entire Great Lakes ecosystem.

“All of the harbor towns along Wisconsin’s lakeshore depend on boating traffi c as an important part of their tourism economy. With many harbor towns experiencing lower water levels, we’re glad Sheboygan’s harbor can offer boating visitors not only an alternative option, but also a new option to continue visiting Wisconsin’s lakeshore communities,” said Amy Wilson, Sheboygan’s tourism Although low water levels on lakes Michigan and Huron are prompting marinas in Michigan and Wisconsin to prepare for a rough boating season in 2013, those on the Sheyboygan River are doing just the opposite, thanks in large part to a milestone achievement that occurred in 2012.

After more than 30 years of collaboration between local, state and federal agencies, the Sheboygan River is now open as a cleaner, deeper, and more navigable waterway.

The 30-year Sheboygan River project was completed last year and saw more than $70 million spent on dredging and

42 GLB | May/June 13

director. “This year, we’re reaching out to more than 2,000 owners of larger boats who normally frequent Lake Michigan harbor towns. We want to let them know Sheboygan’s harbor is now a destination for their large vessels.”

Sheboygan’s water and shore activities for boaters range from fi shing and beach activities to shopping, dining and entertainment—all within walking distance of the Harbor Centre Marina. This season, the city is also introducing new courtesy docking sites along the Sheboygan River. visitsheboygan.com

CLEVELAND MARINA CLOSED FOR THE SEASON Boaters expecting to use Cleveland’s Edgewater Marina,

currently being spent on demolition. Another $3 million will go

severely damaged by Superstorm Sandy, for the 2013

to installing new docks and electrical lines, Anderson said.

boating season, found out in April that the marina will be undergoing demolition and repair work this boating season, leaving more than 200 boaters without a place to dock their vessels and with limited options, according an April 12 article in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will pay 75 percent of the rebuild cost. The state of Ohio will pay for most of the balance.

Anderson said Sandy proved a blessing in some ways. The

The Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources, which manages the facility, told FDL Marine, Inc., the concessionaire, that the state is short of time, money, and materials to rebuild the facility. As a result, Edgewater won’t reopen in 2013.

The concessionaire owner, Joe Anderson, said the state DNR, which operates and manages all of the city of Cleveland’s marinas, remains committed to rebuilding Edgewater Marina at a cost of approximately $4.3 million. About $1.3 million is

marina, he said, was long overdue for a makeover. “Those docks were the original docks, and they weren’t in the best of shape,” he said. “Edgewater will become a brand new facility and one of the nicest facilities in Cleveland.”

Boaters who moored at Edgewater is 2012 have limited options. Edgewater is willing to store some boats at its lower, winter rate and the nearby Olde River Yacht Club has a limited number of slips available at a reduced price.

MENTOR LAGOONS MARINA RENOVATES DOCKS The city of Mentor

electric, that price increases to $39 per lineal foot, according

(Ohio) plans to spend

to a March 21 article in the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

approximately $17,000 this spring to install water and electricity on fl oating docks at Mentor Lagoons Marina, which has 465 wet slips.

Plans call for water and electric to be installed on floating docks F10 to F56, with water on all the fl oating docks and electricity on just 50 of them. The rate for a non-amenity floating dock ranges from $600 to $900. Once upgraded with water and

One area of concern for the marina is Lake Erie’s water level, which currently is three or four inches below average. The U.S Army Corps of Engineers predicts the water will rise a foot by June 1. However, if the water level should drop, the marina would lose 10 E docks because of the sediment built up in E dock area. The combination of low water levels and sediment build up would prevent boats docking at certain E dock slips.

As a precaution, Bob Martin, the city’s director of parks, recreation and public facilities, said the city is holding six fl oaters out of the marina in case they’re needed for E dock owners. “We can dredge out that area but it’s $10 a cubic yard so it would cost $300,000. We just can’t do that right now. If we do it next year, we’ll have to budget for it.”

PORT HURON MARINA EXPANSION PLANS OK’D The new owner and developer of the Water Street Marina in

hotel, a 5,000-square-foot restaurant and room for future

Port Huron, Mich., had its expansion plans approved by the

development. Among the future plans being considered are

Port Huron Planning Commission in April and is currently

a new boat launch ramp and additional marina parking.

moving ahead with its development project.

Newspaper reports said the purchase agreement Amerilodge

The Amerilodge Group of Rochester Hills, Mich., which

signed with the city calls for it to begin site work for the hotel

purchased the marina property for $300,000, plans to add

within 90 days of having its hotel plan approved. In addition,

a Holiday Inn Express Hotel and restaurant to the property.

the developer has six months within which it is to begin

In addition, the new owner is talking with the state about

pouring the footings for the building.

tentative plans to rehabilitate 100 of the marina’s 374 existing slips and perform dredging of the harbor.

The city Planning Commission made the quick time frame for development an important part of the acquisition agreement

The site plan approved by the Planning Commission

because the property went undeveloped for three years under

features an 83-room, three-story Holiday Inn Express

previous ownership.

greatlakesboating.com | 43

National

SANCTUARY CLASSIC PHOTO CONTEST

Islands to the Florida Keys. The “tournament” asks anglers to fish in National Sanctuaries, take photos and enter them into a contest at www.sanctuaryclassic.org. Each week of the Classic, anglers who submit photos will be eligible to receive valuable gift certificates via online voting.

At the conclusion of the contest, judges will select four photos to receive special Guy Harvey Sanctuary Classic Scholarship Awards. These photos should exemplify the following themes: kids fishing, kids and family fishing values, kids in the sanctuaries, and kids in the outdoors and kids conservation. At the end of voting, the Guy Harvey Ocean The Sportsfishing Conservancy and NOAA’s Office of

Foundation will present four $1,000 scholarships to winning

National Marine Sanctuaries are sponsoring the Sanctuary

parents/guardians of children under 18.

Classic for 2013. This free fishing photo contest celebrates recreational fishing in America’s national marine sanctuaries and promotes conservation-focused fishing practices.

“Participating and winning valuable prizes couldn’t be easier.

Simply fish responsibly and enjoy yourself in one of our many sanctuaries, submit your photos and encourage friends and

This event begins on June 8, National Oceans Day, and

family to vote online,” said Tom Raftican, president of the

ends on September 2. It encourages families to fish in one

Sportsfishing Conservancy.

of our nation’s National Marine Sanctuaries, which extend from Lake Huron to American Samoa and from the Hawaiian

For more information, contact Tom Raftican at 805-895-3000 or email him at: tom@sportsfishingconservancy.org.

KENTUCKY HOLDS ASIAN CARP TOURNAMENT weather for the small number of experienced fishermen who participated in the tournament.

Barry Mann of Benton, Ky., hauled in a two-day total of 28,669 pounds of carp to win the $10,000 fi rst-place check. Heath Frailley of Calhoun, Ky., was second with 22,005 pounds, earning $4,000.

The immense number of Asian carp that inhabit Kentucky and Barkley lakes prompted DFWR to hold an Asian carp commercial fi shing tournament as a way to quickly and repeatedly remove several hundred thousand pounds of Asian carp from the lakes.

An Asian Carp Fishing tournament, the fi rst of its kind,

Commercial fishermen contestants were not allowed to sell

removed nearly 83,000 pounds of the aquatic nuisance fish

any Asian carp harvested and released all other species

from Kentucky and Barkley Lakes in Western Kentucky, two

caught. Asian carp harvested during the tournament were

of the state’s most important fishing reservoirs.

sold and tournament proceeds will be used to fund future

Sponsored by the Kentucky Dept. of Fish and Wildlife

Asian carp tournaments.

Resources (DFWR) and open only to commercial fishermen,

DFWR said it expects to hold future tournaments such as

the March 12-13 event saw 82,953 pounds of Asian carp

these to reduce Asian carp numbers, at least until viable

removed from the lakes. Although this was far from the 100

markets and local processing facilities are established.

tons predicted by the DFWR, the state agency blamed cold

44 GLB | May/June 13

SUPERSTORM CAUSES $121 MILLION IN DAMAGES It appears that Superstorm Sandy inflicted up to $121 million

NOAA researchers said the heaviest damages from Sandy

in uninsured damages to New Jersey’s fi shing industry,

occurred at marinas in northern Monmouth County.

according to a news report from the National Oceanic and

Structural damage in those areas sometimes exceeded 80

Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that was requested by

percent. Barnegat Bay marinas were hit hard too, reporting

New Jersey members of Congress.

heavy damage, as was the Margate/Somers Point area.

Businesses such as marinas and harborside tackle shops

News reports quoted Rep. Frank J. Pallone Jr., D-N.J., as

took the biggest hits, an estimated $62 million to $105 million

saying the report proves Congress was wrong to reject a

in New Jersey and $58 million in New York, the agency

$150 million fisheries disaster aid package that would have

reported. Another major sector affected by the storm was

been shared not only with fishermen hit by Sandy, but by the

commercial seafood sector, whose damages were estimated at

industry in New England, the South and Alaska. Congress

$14 million in New Jersey and $19 million in New York.

only allotted $5 million in directed aid to the fisheries.

PEER-TO-PEER BOAT RENTALS Cruzin.com, a fully insured peer-to-peer boat rental

on-water towing services should assistance be needed.

marketplace, matches boating enthusiasts who don’t own

Additionally through BoatUS, Cruzin provides free access

a boat with current boat owners who want to defray some

to U.S. Coast Guard approved boating safety education and

of the costs of keeping their vessels.

certification as part of its careful boater-qualification services.

In addition to matching up boat owners with those who want

The company is

to rent, Cruzin provides insurance, pre-screening of renters,

currently launching

towing services, and boating safety education. The peer-to-

its beta program in

peer relationships encourage feedback on the website that

Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

helps others make decisions about what kind of boat to rent,

Cruzin is actively

to whom to rent, and walks everyone through the process to

seeking beta users.

make it as simple as possible. Boat owners create a profile

Invitations to join the

page on www.cruzin.com listing their crafts with photos,

Cruzin beta site can

specs, availability and rental prices. Renters complete an

be requested at

Experian background check and submit boating education and experience for their profiles before inquiring about a boat.

www.cruzin.com, where visitors can also review an overview, “How it Works.”

Cruzin insures both owners and renters with $1 million in hull

www.cruzin.com // 415-940-8199

and liability insurance. Peace of mind is ensured with BoatUS

USCG RELEASES BOATING SURVEY RESULTS More than 73.5 million people boated in 2011, and 17.5

Individually, of the four reporting regions, the Midwest had

percent of all U.S. households owned one of the 22.2

the biggest percentage, with 32.8 percent of its inhabitants,

million boats in the country, according to the 2011 National

participating in boating.

Recreational Boating Survey (RBS) conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).

About 57 percent of all the boats owned by households were registered. The other 43 percent consisted of canoes, kayaks,

It is estimated that out of the 116.7 million households in the

and other manually propelled vessels that were not required

United States, 34.2 million or about 29 percent, had at least

to be registered by most states.

one member of the household participate in boating in 2011.

Of the four regions described in the report (Northweast, South, Midwest and West), the Midwest, which includes most of the states that border the Great Lakes, reported the highest percentage of households participating in boating

The USCG concluded that recreational boating continues to be one of the nation’s most popular outdoor recreational activities, as well as one of the most important generators of income and employment.

at 35 percent.

greatlakesboating.com | 45

Sailing

CHICAGO MATCH CUP AND TALL SHIPS® Peter McGowan

Twelve of the world’s best teams will sail against each other in match race sailing, a form of head-to-head combat similar to the America’s Cup, just feet from the edge of Navy Pier.

They will compete for their share of the $100,000 prize money purse and points earned toward the Tour’s overall World Championship, worth $1.75 million in prize money.

Navy Pier’s east end will be transformed to showcase the best of the Chicago Match Cup and the Tall Ships, promising frontrow seats, hospitality areas and live commentary. Within the Festival area there will be special family-friendly activities, Tall Ships on-board tours and sail-aways, and a fireworks display

This August, sailing will take over Navy Pier as modern match

each evening.

racing meets maritime history. The Chicago Match Cup, a

General admission tickets are $5, with additional opportunities

$100,000 sailing competition and the only U.S. stop on the

to purchase Tall Ships cruises and on-boards, as well as

Alpari World Match Racing Tour, will set sail alongside one of

Chicago Match Cup VIP viewing areas.

Chicago’s most popular attractions, the Tall Ships® Chicago

chicagocuporg // navypier.com

2013 Festival, August 7-11.

LAKE ERIE INTERCLUB CRUISE The Lake Erie Interclub Cruise, which will be held from June

Registration will be held on June 21, and the fleet will leave

22-26, is a popular international sailing event, raced by

the Erie Yacht Club in Erie, Pa., on June 22 for Canadian

boats from the United States and Canada. The five-day series

waters, with the final race at the Buffalo Yacht Club.

combines lively racing and cruising as the yachts race from port to port. The regatta also provides ample time for the racers to enjoy the hospitalities of the participating clubs as

For registration and other information, visit www.erieinterclub.com.

well as to discover the points of interest in each port.

GROSSE POINTE YC TO HOST NATIONALS Nautical Foundation of Grosse Pointe, Mich. It is expected that more than 400 young sailors will participate in the event.

“We are excited and honored to host this prestigious and important sailing event,” said GPYC Commodore William C. Vogel, Jr. “The USODA regatta is a first for the Metro Detroit area and we look forward to extending GPYC hospitality to everyone involved.”

The regatta includes three major events: the USODA Team Race National Championship (July 6-9), USODA Girls National Championship (July 10) and USODA Open Fleet The Grosse Pointe Yacht Club (GPYC) will host the 2013 U.S. Optimist Dinghy Association National Championships on July 6-14 for young sailors, ages 8-15. The event is being hosted in partnership with GPYC and the Grosse Pointe Youth

46 GLB | May/June 13

National Championship (July 11-14). Each event showcases the nation’s best young sailors using Optimist dinghies. For more information, visit http://usodanationals-2013.org.

75TH QUEEN’S CUP RACE Sponsored by South Shore Yacht Club of Milwaukee, Wis., the

comply with all safety and insurance regulations, and have a

annual Queen’s Cup Race is an overnight sprint across Lake

PHRF certificate.

Michigan, which will depart for Ludington, Mich. on June 28.

While focusing on being a family

It’s anticipated that more than 200 boats with crews of more

friendly event, there will also be pre-

than 1,400 people will venture into the open waters.

and post-race parties. Many boats

The Queen’s Cup is one of yachting’s most renowned

will have multiple generations within

offshore races, drawing plenty of yachts with the latest

their crews.

carbon fiber sails and equipment.

For more information, contact Race

The Queen’s Cup Cruising Fleet (jib-and-main only) will

Chairman Kenneth Dziubek at

start several hours ahead to provide cruisers a head-start

qc@ssyc.org.

and added daylight sailing time. Each boat must be entered,

TAXPAYERS MAY PAY FOR AMERICA’S CUP Efforts to raise the $30 million plus necessary to host the

House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, and the Board of

2013 America’s Cup in San Francisco Bay were stalled at

Supervisors for additional help. Unfortunately, raising money

$14 million in February, according to an article in the Marina

for a sailing competition put on by Larry Ellison, the CEO

Times. The news report added that U.S. taxpayers may have

of Oracle who ranked third on last year’s Forbes 400 list of

to pick up the remainder of the bill.

richest Americans with an estimated worth of $41 billion, is

Analysis of the fundraising effort revealed that there was a

a tough sell.

significant drop-off in the number of teams competing for the

It appears that San Francisco taxpayers may have to pay

America’s Cup. Original estimates called for 12 international

the millions needed for putting on the America’s Cup. News

teams to come to San Francisco for the competition. At press

reports said this is not going over well with many local

deadline, only a handful of teams were in the hunt.

residents who believe that the city shouldn’t pickup the tab

The San Francisco Recreation and Park Commission has raised about $9 million from private sources, and the city’s mayor, Ed Lee, is looking to Sen. Dianne Feinstein,

for what is described as “Ellison’s baby,” especially since his personal worth rose $8 billion in 2012 due to a rise in Oracle’s stock price.

SAILING LEADERSHIP FORUM SET FOR 2014 US Sailing will host a groundbreaking event on Feb. 6-8, 2014

perspective and new ideas on how to strengthen and grow

at the Hilton San Diego Resort. For the first time, the Sailing

sailing for the 21st Century sailor. Topics will be themed

Leadership Forum will connect leaders from sail training and

around how to grow the sport, make it safer, and improve

education, yacht club and sailing organization management,

educational programs and regatta management. Instructors,

racing associations and organizations including one-

coaches, race officers, program directors, class/fleet leaders,

design and handicap classes, race officials, and industry

yacht club management, organization leaders, and volunteers

professionals.

will find key takeaways from this event.

The primary objective of the Leadership Forum is to bring

The Sailing Leadership Forum will also feature social

the sport together by assembling leaders and innovators

events, exhibitor displays and demonstrations, pre- and post-

from these areas of sailing for an all-inclusive learning and

forum clinics and seminars for instructor certification, race

networking experience. The Sailing Leadership Forum will

management seminars, Safety-at-Sea seminars, and more.

offer focused group sessions, while addressing subjects relevant to all.

For more information, visit http://leadership2014.ussailing.org.

The Leadership Forum will consist of three days of keynote speakers, presentations, seminars, panel discussions, and break-out sessions that will provide attendees with a fresh

greatlakesboating.com | 47

NEW PRODUCTS

OUTDOOR LANTERN The Outdoor Lantern is both an insect repellent device and a portable, long-lasting outdoor LED lantern, whose functions can be employed separately or together.

Providing a 15 ft. by 15 ft. mosquito-free zone, it is 98 percent effective. It is also DEET-free, portable and odor free.

Weighing only 13 ounces, ThermaCELL utilizes an artificial version of a natural insecticide. The butane cartridge, which powers the mosquito repellent, provides 12 hours of power.

Eight LEDs, powered by four AA batteries, provide the light from the lantern, which has two illumination settings controlled by a switch that is located on the lantern’s base. $31.99 // 866 -753-3837 // mosquitorepellent.com

ROCK-SOLID ANCHOR The Rocna anchor features a folded concave blade, which offers superior holding power and remains stable even under veering loads. Its optimized geometry allows it to rotate in place while remaining buried.

The anchor utilizes a roll bar to ensure it shifts into the optimal setting position, regardless of how it first lands. It typically sets within three feet of where it’s dropped. The roll bar can also act as a grappling point should the anchor become fouled when a buoyed retrieval line is absent. $147.99 // 604-940 -2010 // canmet.com

HAND PUMPS Easy-to-use Thirsty-Mate hand pumps have the same size intake and discharge, allowing unimpeded water flow.

Lightweight and easy to clean, the all-plastic Thirsty-Mate pumps require no priming, are not susceptible to rust or corrosion, and will not mar the boat. If the pumps become clogged, users simply remove the foot valve assembly by applying low heat, such as warm water, and clean out the inside.

Thirsty-Mate pumps are available in four different diameters ranging from 1¼ inches to 3 inches and multiple lengths starting at 12 inches. Spare parts are sold separately. $23 // 203-333-1412 // beckson.com

48 GLB | May/June 13

HIGH-SPEED AMPHIBIAN The world’s fi rst high-speed sports amphibian (HSA), the GIBBS Quadski, has a durable, lightweight composite hull, utilizes patented water-jet technology, and is powered by a BMW Motorrad engine and transmission.

The Quadski transitions from land to water in less than five seconds and reaches planing speeds in seconds. The HSA weighs 1,300 pounds and is equipped with a 15-gallon fuel tank.

Currently available in five colors—red, yellow, blue, silver and back—the Quadski is available in Florida and soon will go on sale at other dealerships in Michigan, New York, Texas and elsewhere in the Midwest and southeastern United States.

Approx. $40,000 // 248-418-7091 // gibbsspor ts.com

‘HEALTHY’ SUNGLASSES Solar Shield® Fits Over ™ sunglasses are designed to fit easily and comfortably over prescription glasses. Their patented frame designs and lens technology are designed to protect the eyes and the skin surrounding them from UV rays and sun damage.

Solar Shield® Fits Over™ lenses are polarized to avoid blinding glare and block 100 percent UVA/UVB light.

Not only do the polarized lenses provide up to 48 percent more coverage than regular sunglasses (and Advanced UV protection), but they are affordable as well.

Available at Walmart, Walgreens, Kmart, CVS and other retailers.

Sunglasses $19-$25, clip-ons $10-$15 // 800 -959-9038 // diopticssunwear.com

WATERPROOF IPHONE CASE The OBEX iPhone 5 case from Seidio is both dust-tight and waterproof. The two-stage protection system does not obstruct the phone’s functionality. Anti-refl ection glass causes no interference with the camera lens, and the screen protector sits flush with the screen to retain the screen’s clarity.

The case will not impede radio signals or Bluetooth. Rubber stoppers are used in the important ports, and can be easily removed for access. The OBEX will also be available as a case and locking holster combo.

This case line is also available for the Samsung Galaxy S III. $79.95, $89.95 // 832-204-1118 // seidio.com/obex/

greatlakesboating.com | 49

BOAT CARE & FEEDING

COLD-FIT RUB RAILS Mate USA’s Radial Rub Rail is fitted cold, with no pre-heating necessary. The installation begins with the application of a rigid duralene track that is secured to the hull with screws or rivets. The track bends by hand so mounting requires no templates or special tools. The supple PVC profile then snaps onto the track.

Rub rails come in black or white, with custom colors available by special order. The Radial Rub Rail kit comes with 46 feet of rub rail, seven bars of track, two end caps and one joint cap. Also available are 52- and 72-foot kits.

From $182.78 // 954-463-5757 // mate-usa.com

METAL AND CHROME POLISH Shurhold Industries’ Buff Magic is a metal cleaner that’s safe for steel, aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, gold and other precious metals.

Buff Magic can be applied by hand or with an electric buffer.

When buffing, the one-of-a-kind formula changes as it’s used.

The proprietary abrasives in the compound break down into smaller and smaller particles. This enables users to transform a metal or chrome finish from very dull to incredibly glossy.

Buff Magic also removes oxidation, clear coat staining, surface rust, tarnish, and Plexiglas, P800 and finer DA scratches. $28.98 22 oz. can // 800 -962-6241 // shurhold.com

BATTERY RECHARGER Powermania’s Turbo M212E is an onboard three-stage automatic battery charger that has a built-in battery type selector. This allows users to charge two 12V Lead-Acid, AGM or GEL batteries up to 144 Ah to their fullest capacities.

Measuring 8.25” x 5.75” x 2.75”, it weighs only 8.9 lbs. and comes with five feet of prewired AC and DC cables.

The battery recharger offers protection from overheating, over-current, over-voltage, reverse polarity, and short-circuit conditions. This onboard battery charger is fully potted with epoxy to ensure long-term waterproofing and comes with a two-year limited warranty. $119 // 888-581-8168 // powermaniausa.com

50 GLB | May/June 13

FUEL SYSTEM TREATMENT Royal Purple’s Max-Clean® is a state-of-the-art fuel system treatment specifi cally formulated to meet increased ethanol concentrations of E10+ found in marine fuels. The treatment cleans corroded and clogged injectors, stabilizes fuel during winter storage, restores fuel economy and reduces both engine buildup and emissions.

Max-Clean’s proprietary technology targets both the intake system and combustion chamber of a boat’s engine. In most cases it can bring engine surfaces back to a like-new cleanliness, restore fuel economy, performance and reliability, and reduce the chances of build-up related engine failure. Simply mix one ounce of Max-Clean to one gallon of fuel. $16.99 // 888-382-6300 // w w w.royalpurpleconsumer.com

FUEL PRIMER BULB Made from a durable compound that stands up to harsh weather conditions and maintains excellent flexibility in low temperatures, Larand Products’ fuel primer bulb has been lab-tested to pump 20 percent more fuel than competitive primer bulbs and has no seals that can leak fuel.

This fuel primer bulb for outboard motors exceeds US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards and also offers performance and reliability superior to other OEM and aftermarket bulbs. $14.95 // 877-786 - 0606 // w w w.larandproducts.com

BLISTER PREVENTION SYSTEM Interprotect® 2000E with Microplates® is a two-part epoxy coating developed to protect fi berglass hulls from water absorption, which can lead to osmotic blistering.

Microplates® create an overlapping barrier to help stop water migration through the coating. The InterProtect® system can repair gelcoats that have already been damaged by osmotic blistering.

Available in gray or white, InterProtect ® can be used for corrosion protection below the waterline on all underwater metals as well as for blister protection for new fiberglass boats.

Above the waterline, it can be used on fiberglass and all metals.

908-686 -1300 // yachtpaint.com

greatlakesboating.com | 51

MARINE MART

POWERBOAT 44’ Sea Ray Sundancer 1992 Model: Clean and fast with twin low-hour Cat diesels. Full electronics and rev-cycle air conditioned owner’s queen and guest staterooms. Located Chicago.

Call 312-671-1700 or email jro@theyachtexchange.com for complete details. Asking $89K.

MARINASANDTRANSPORT.COM NEW- AND PRE-OWNED MARINA EQUIPMENT Looking to buy or if you have equipment to sell. We also transport boats and offer overseas shipping.

CONTACT: Rob Lee Maritime boattransport@comcast.net 508-758-9409

LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A MARINA? CONTACT: Eddy A. Dingman, CNS Lic: Marina Realestate/Business Broker

847-987-6626 Edingman@cbcworldwide.com COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL, NRT NATIONAL MARINA PROPERTIES GROUP

Financing available to qualified buyers.

Visit: http://golfcourseandmarinasales.com

52 GLB| May/June 13

B7218

2000 32’ FOUR WINNS 328Vista

$89,900

B7931

SKIPPERBUDS.COM

2000 38’ SEA RAY 380DA

$159,995

B7913

2004 32’ FOUR WINNS 328V

$97,900

B8280

2000 38’ SEA RAY 380DA

$139,995

B11561

2005 32’ RINKER 312

$75,995

B3560

2001 38’ SEA RAY 380DA

$139,900

B9837

2008 32’ RINKER 320EC

$109,995

B11576

2002 38’ SEA RAY 38

$149,900

B11019

2009 32’ RINKER 320EC

$119,900

B8475

2003 38’ SEA RAY 380DA

$184,900

B10920

2003 32’ SEA RAY 320DA

$99,900

B10350

2008 39’ CRUISERS 395

$249,900

B7922

2005 32’ SEA RAY 320DA

$169,995

B7169

2005 39’ SEA RAY 390MY

$385,000

B10880

2005 32’ SEA RAY 320Sundancer

$124,995

B11368

2011 39’ SEA RAY 390DA

$359,000

B11039

2005 32’ SEA RAY 320DA

$99,900

B10607

2002 39’ SILVERTON 392

$159,995

B11647

2007 32’ SEA RAY 320DA

$139,900

B11606

2003 39’ SILVERTON 39MY

$184,900 $209,995

B10278

2005 33’ CHAPARRAL 330

$109,000

B11060

2008 39’ SILVERTON 38Sports Bri

B11212

2003 33’ CRUISERS 3372

$104,900

B11181

2004 40’ CRUISERS 400Express

$174,900

B7287

2004 33’ DORAL 33Elegante

$109,900

B11558

2004 40’ FORMULA 40

$229,500 $229,995

B10825

2001 33’ SILVERTON 330Sportbrid

$79,500

B11108

2008 40’ REGAL 4060

B7718

2003 34’ CRUISERS 3470Express

$114,000

B10598

2000 40’ SEA RAY 400DB

$174,900

$104,900

B11588

2000 40’ SEA RAY 450EB

$209,000

$65,000

B10882

2006 40’ SEA RAY 40DA

$259,900

E0152A 2004 34’ CRUISERS 3470 B10104

2000 34’ FORMULA 34PC

B11321

2008 34’ MERIDIAN 341Sedan

$199,500

B11115

2004 41’ HUNTER 41 Aft Cockp

$149,900

B8101

2003 34’ RINKER 342Fiestavee

$119,900

B5978

2004 41’ MERIDIAN 411SB

$279,900

B10784

2005 34’ RINKER 342

$94,997

B10956

2002 42’ AZIMUT 42Fly

$249,900

B8629

2000 34’ SEA RAY 340DA

$84,995

B9473

2003 42’ SEA RAY 420Sundancer

$249,000

BT0024A 2002 34’ SEA RAY 340DA

$94,900

B11617

2004 42’ SEA RAY 420DB

$299,900

$155,900

B11171

2004 42’ TIARA 4200 OPEN

$359,900 $299,999

B11660

2005 34’ SEA RAY 340DA

B7884

2005 34’ SEA RAY 340SDA

$179,995

B11174

2006 43’ SAGA 43

B11406

2006 34’ SEA RAY 340

$180,000

B11326

2008 44’ REGAL 4460Commodor

$319,900

B7921

2006 34’ SEA RAY 340SDA

$179,900

B11551

2009 45’ FORMULA 45

$525,000

B10831

2006 34’ SEA RAY 340DA

$149,999

B8085

2005 46’ SEA RAY 460DA

$375,000

B11289

2008 34’ SEA RAY 340SDA

$179,995

B11598

2005 46’ SEA RAY 460DA

$359,900

B9973

2000 35’ CARVER 350Mariner

$89,900

B11037

2002 47’ WELLCRAFT 47Excalibur

$179,000

B11427

2012 35’ CRUISERS 350

$249,900

B11401

2003 48’ SEA RAY 48DB

$349,000

B10545

2007 35’ LARSON 350Cabrio

$129,000

B11179

2008 52’ SEA RAY 52DA

$685,000

B11132

2006 35’ REGAL 3560

$159,995

B9757

2000 54’ NEPTUNUS 54Express

$350,000

$165,000

B10737

2003 55’ SEA RAY 550DA

$429,000

B11335

2007 35’ RINKER 350FV

B11258

2008 35’ SEA RAY 350DA

$219,000

B10470

2008 55’ SEA RAY 55Sundancer

$1,099,000

B11582

2004 35’ SILVERTON 35MY

$154,995

B11126

2008 56’ CRUISERS 560Express

$649,000

B10853

2000 36’ BAJA 36OUTLAW

$66,500

B11389

2002 57’ CARVER 570 Voyager

$475,000

B11364

2003 36’ CARVER 360Sedan

$169,500

B10736

2007 60’ SEA RAY 60DA

$799,000

MARINE MART

For complete specs & photos of these boats visit:

greatlakesboating.com | 53

MARINE MART

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54 GLB| May/June 13

greatlakesboatingfederation.org greatlakesbo ati ti ngff ederation d org

JUNE

ILLINOIS

JUNE 12-16

JUNE 13-16

Various venues Pellston

PELLSTON’S S UMMERFEST

PROGRESSIVE I NSURANCE C HICAGO I N -WATER B OAT S HOW

JULY PENNSYLVANIA MAY 25-26

visitharborspringsmichigan.com

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INDIANA

bayharborboatshow.com

L AKE ERIE I NTERCLUB C RUISE

M APLE C ITY G RAND PRIX

JUNE 15

Erie Yacht Club Erie

Stone Lake La Porte

G REAT L AKES C HALLENGE B OAT R ACES

apba.org

St. Joseph River & American Legion 223 Constantine

MAY 31 – JUNE 2

JUNE 29-30

S K AMANIA M ANIA FISHING TOURNAMENT

michiganhydroplane.com

Washington Park Michigan City

JUNE 20-23

mcsummerfest.org

Water Street South Haven

IOWA

southhavenharborfest.com

MAY 25

JUNE 28-29

OCI YOUTH FISHING TOURNAMENT

Q UEEN’S C UP SAILING R ACE

Oelwein Lake Oelwein

Ludington Yacht Club Milwaukee to Ludington

oelweincelebration.org

ludingtonyachtclub.org

H ARBORFEST

JUNE 29

MICHIGAN

WATERFRONT WINE FESTIVAL

MAY 17-19

G REAT L AKES B OATING FESTIVAL

visitharborspringsmichigan.com

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Grosse Pointe Shores greatlakesboatingfestival.com

MAY 26

M USKEGON L OST B OAT C EREMONY/B LESSING OF

Marina area Harbor Springs

Q UEEN’S C UP SAILING R ACE South Shore Yacht Club Milwaukee to Ludington ssyc.org

CANADA JUNE 20-23

R EDPATH WATERFRONT FESTIVAL Waterfront Toronto towaterfrontfest.com

JUNE 27-29

THE G REAT TUGBOAT R ACE Roberta Bondar Marina Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario ssm.thegreattugboatrace.ca

N ATIONAL SAFE B OATING WEEK May 18-24

THE

B OATS

Park Rapids Lakes Area Park Rapids

MAY 3-5

FOOD FESTIVAL

N ATIONAL M ARINA DAY June 8

parkrapidsdowntown.com

JUNE 8

lelandmi.com

JUNE 28-29

MAY 11

OHIO

Leland Marina Leland

WISCONSIN

MINNESOTA

lakeeffectboating.com

AND

erieinterclub.com

G OVERNOR’S FISHING O PENER

USS Silversides Museum/Muskegon Channel Muskegon

L ELAND WINE

EVENTS CALENDAR

MAY

PROGRESSIVE I NSURANCE CATAWBA I SLAND B OAT S HOW Catawba Island Club Port Clinton catawbaislandboatshow.com

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