Wakesport Makeover Transform any boring old boat into a wakesport machine. BY ZENON BILAS
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pecialized wakesport boats offer the ultimate tow characteristics for wakeboarders, wakesurfers and waterskiers alike. But a few accessories can dramatically enhance the tow-abilities of virtually any boat, whether it be a runabout, deckboat, fishing boat, sport jet or pontoon. Boat add-ons can assist in four areas: They can help the driver operate more safely and proficiently; help the driver maintain an accurate speed; provide stable towing; and improve wake size. The driver’s skill impacts the person in tow’s safety, success and fun.
Mirrors
The mirror is a crucial accessory for towing wakesports. This accessory allows the driver to keep an eye on the person behind the boat along with any boating traffic while still facing forward. All drivers should use a mirror when towing anyone behind the boat. A mirror has been a standard feature on specialized wakesport boats for 60 years. Today after-market mirrors are available for all boats, even center console boats, pontoons and PWC. After-market mirrors usually provide 100 to 140 degrees of view. Manufacturers achieve a wider rear view by increasing the width of the mirror and 28
AUGUST 2020
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LAKELANDBOATING.COM
utilizing a convex design. The wider the view, the easier it is for the driver to see the person in tow as he or she swings out to the side of the boat. More expensive mirrors typically offer higher quality glass for a sharper, more detailed view. Mirrors can be attached to the windshield frame, deck near the helm, tubing on a wakeboard tower or the hardtop on a center console T-top. Place the mirror near the driver toward the center of the boat, so that the driver has a symmetrical rear view. Placing the mirror on the windshield above the passengers’ heads gives the driver an unobstructed view.
Rear-facing mirrors positioned near the driver help them keep an eye on people being towed behind the boat.
