JUNE 2021 • VOL. 8 NO. 1
Breeze Chain O’ Lakes
INSIDE
Learn to sail Safety on the water Fishing tips
Page 2
CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE
JUNE 2021
Did you know?
Statistics from the United States Coast Guard indicate that, in 2019, 86 percent of drowning victims in recreational boating accidents where cause of death was known were not wearing life jackets. The National Park Service reports that drowning is the top cause of visitor deaths in national parks and that nearly all of those deaths are preventable. One of the simplest ways to prevent drowning is to follow the advice of the Park Service and wear a life jacket at all times when near or in the water. This includes when wading, swimming, fishing, boating, and engaging in watersports or other water-related activities. The Park Service notes that there are three types of life jackets, but only two come in child and infant sizes. Inherently buoyant (primarily foam) life jackets and hybrid (foam and inflation) life jackets are available in child and infant sizes. The Park Service recommends both types of life jackets for swimmers and nonswimmers. People who intend to engage in water sports should know that some hybrid life jackets are designed specifically for such activities. The third type of life jacket is inflatable life jackets, which are only available in adult sizes and should never be worn by poor or non-swimmers. (METRO CREATIVE)
Simple safety tips for water sports enthusiasts
top: Water sports make summer even more fun. Safety should always be the utmost priority for anyone involved in such activities. above: Children love water sports and can safely participate in ageappropriate activities with a little planning. STOCK PHOTOS The Breeze
Bodies of water like lakes, rivers and oceans often elicit fond memories of fun times spent under the sun. Safety should always be a priority when spending time on the water, especially when participating in water sports, including swimming and water skiing. According to the World Health Organization, more than 40 people die by drowning every hour of every day, which equates to around 372,000 deaths each year. Many of those deaths, the vast majority of which occur in low- or middle-income countries, are preventable, and safety is at the core of drowning prevention. Though drowning incidents are not as prevalent in the United States and Canada as they are elsewhere in the world, the popularity of water sports in both countries underscores the importance of revisiting the various ways to stay safe when out on the water.
Take lessons
The carefree nature of spring and
summer can make it easy for water sports enthusiasts to forgo lessons before trying their hands at water skiing and wakeboarding. But such lessons can teach people techniques that can keep them safe on the water. Courses teach everything from how to get up and out of the water to how to properly handle a tow rope. They also can teach boaters how to navigate waters while towing skiers, tubers and wakeboarders.
Learn the signals
Learn hand signals and go over them before getting in the water. The National Safety Council emphasizes the importance of basic hand signals, which can be used to help boaters communicate with the people they’re towing. Hand signals are vital because water sports tend to be noisy, so nonverbal communication may be the only way boaters can communicate with the people they’re towing. Signals can be used to communicate anything from directions of turns to speed requests to the condition of the person being towed. A list of hand signals can be found at www.boaterexam.com/safety/safetycommon-hand-signals.aspx.
Inspect tow lines
The NSC advises inspecting tow lines prior to beginning. Such inspections can confirm that tow lines are not caught in
the propeller or wrapped around anyone before the activity begins.
Take your time
Wait for the propeller to stop before getting back on the boat. People being towed should always wait for propellers to stop before climbing back into the boat. It doesn’t take long for propellers to stop, and those extra few seconds can dramatically reduce risks for accidents or injuries.
Only during the day
Visibility is compromised once the sun goes down. That can make it hard for boaters to see any obstacles that might appear in the water, and it also makes it very difficult for them to communicate with the people they’re towing. As a result of such difficulties, the NSC urges water sports enthusiasts to only engage in such activities during daylight hours.
(METRO CREATIVE)
On the cover: Community Sailing School students enjoy a beautiful day on the water. Learn more about the school and its offerings on Page 5. PHOTO COURTESY OF KATHLEEN WINKIEL OF THE COMMUNITY SAILING CLUB The Breeze
JUNE 2021
CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE
Page 3
Catch More and Bigger Fish this year
10 tips to better fishing
If you’re among the 50 million Americans who plan to wet a line this year, there’s no doubt that as you wait to feel that familiar tug at the end of your fishing line this summer, you’ll ask yourself, “How can I catch more fish and bigger fish?” Ever since people started to enjoy sport fishing, they’ve been asking that question. It’s a question some of the most recognized names in fishing are often asked – anglers such as Al Lindner, Tony Roach, Mike Iaconelli, Ott DeFoe and Jacob Wheeler. With thousands of places to fish and thousands of fishing lures that one can use to catch fish, where do you even start? Anyone who’s put time on the water knows that the big one isn’t always caught by the most experienced angler in the boat. In other words, there can be a lot of luck in fishing. On the other hand, if you want to consistently catch more fish and bigger fish more often (create your own “luck”), you can set yourself up for greater success if you embrace some of these important habits offered by the fishing folks at Rapala:
Go to where the fish are
Many lakes, reservoirs, ponds and rivers hold fish, but there are some bodies of water where the conditions seem to produce an outsized number of fish or trophy-size fish. For example, professional bass fishing tournaments tend to be conducted on big bodies of water that are known for their
big numbers. Before you head out, do your homework – go online and read fishing reports, study lake and river reports produced by state departments of natural resources, and visit your local fishing tackle retailer – to get information about specific lakes, rivers and in-shore fishing areas.
Keep asking why
In a fishing magazine article, pro angler Mike Iaconelli was asked about why he loves fishing and why bass pros are so good at it. Iaconelli said he looks at fishing like solving a puzzle. When he catches a fish, he asks himself, “Why did that happen?” so he can learn from it and keep catching more.
Focus on structure
Have you ever noticed when you go to a party how everyone hangs around the island in the kitchen? Fish are no different, really – they like to hover around rocks and reefs, hang around dock and pier posts, and hide in weed beds.
Keep your lure in the water
It’s pretty simple, if you want to catch more fish, you simply need to spend more time fishing and keeping your lure in the water.
Big healthy fish can’t resist a wounded fish
Big fish are looking for the easiest meal. That’s why they zero in on wounded fish.
One of the most effective lures ever created is the Original Floating Rapala, a lure created with natural balsa wood that recreates the wobbling motion of a wounded bait fish better than any other lure in the world. It’s why, according to the International Game Fish Association, more world record fish have been caught with a Rapala than any other lure.
Rely on needle sharp hooks
Many fish have hard mouths so you need to use a hook that will hold on when a fish bites down on your bait, according to VMC, whose hooks are used by anglers worldwide. Fishing pros like Ott DeFoe and Jacob Wheeler rely on needle sharp hooks to win major bass tournaments.
Replace your fishing line
Your fishing line is the only thing between you and landing the fish of your dreams, so don’t take a chance. Make sure to check your line regularly for nicks and abrasions, according to the experts at Sufix fishing line, and get into the habit of replacing your fishing line every year if you fish frequently.
Big fish, big lures
In general, big fish are kind of lazy. They want to eat as much as they can while spending the least amount of energy getting their food. It’s kind of like hanging out on the couch all day and having a fully stocked fridge within just a short reach. So, when
you’re going after bigger fish, try using bigger lures.
Practice catch and release
To get bigger fish, anglers need to practice catch and release. That means when you catch a fish, quickly release it back into the water where it can grow bigger. If you want to make a meal, follow local fishing regulations and harvest only what you need.
Have fun catching anything
One of the greatest joys of fishing, whether it’s freshwater or saltwater, is that sometimes, you never know what’s going to bite. If you can appreciate every catch, including those less-than-desirable species, you’re guaranteed to have a great time on the water every time. If that fits your idea of fishin’ fun, Rapala has identified an assortment of catch anything lures that will catch virtually any type of fish on any type of water. If you want to learn more about catching more and bigger fish, consider visiting the blog on Rapala.com, which is chock full of information.
(BPT)
Successful anglers know to do their homework before heading out on the lake. Reading online fishing reports from the DNR and visiting the local tackle store are a couple of ways to stay informed. STOCK PHOTO The Breeze
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CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE
JUNE 2021
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Sailing Bay JUNE 2021
CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE
Page 5
on the
COMMUNITY SAILING CLUB TEACHES A LIFE-LONG LOVE FOR THE WATER by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT
As the summer sun warms the Chain O’Lakes, the water community comes alive and a variety of boats appear on the lakes as families and friends gather on pontoons or in speedboats to glide along the sparkling blue water. While a ride in any boat is exciting, there is nothing more beautiful than the majestic sailboats with their colorful sails unfurled on a bright sunny day. Entering Pistakee Bay, there are sure to be a variety of sailboats heading out into the water as the Community Sailing Club at Pistakee begin their summer classes. If there was ever a summer where it was important to enjoy time out of doors and look for some new and interesting activities for your family, it is this year. Last year the sailing school cancelled classes due to the COVID-19 pandemic but are ready to resume lessons with changes and precautions in place. “Because of the COVID rules, there will be smaller groups working together,” said Kathleen Winkiel, one of the founders
and an original board member of the Community Sailing School. Winkiel said in the past the students would work with different instructors and pair with different students while in the boats so that they would build friendships and practice team building. This year will be different because of the pandemic. The number of students will be less and the students will work, when possible, with just one instructor. They will attempt to have the student remain in the same boat for the day, with their instructor. Members of the same family will be able to work together in one group. Students will remain outside as much as possible and maintain a distance from each other while they receive onshore instruction. In case of rain, classes will be held inside the Pistakee Yacht Club. Hand washing will be encouraged and distance from each other will be maintained in compliance with the COVID-19 recommendations. Read current COVID-19 protection rules on the sailing school’s Facebook page or on their website. While in years past, classes were available starting at age 4, this year
Winkiel said they will start at age 8. Just as in the past, classes are offered on a weekly basis from June 7 through Aug. 13, with the exception of the Fourth of July week. Each session is one week and lasts from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., giving time for instruction on shore and time in the boats The students will enjoy learning the basics of sailing and also about caring for the boat. They work together, placing the boats in the water, sailing out in the bay, and returning to the shore at the end of the lesson. For those who are truly interested in sailing, there is the choice of signing up for the entire sailing class season rather than just a one-week camp, at a reduced rate. This cost would be about 30% less than the entire season would cost at the regular weekly rate. Classes are also offered for adults either as partners or single person classes, for those new to sailing or for someone who feels the need to brush up on sailing skills. These adult classes are held later in the day toward evening.
Family Vacation Week
New this year is the Family Vacation Week held the Fourth of July week. The camp focuses on the family working together to learn to sail. While sailing will be the main activity of the week, there will also be other family bonding activities. These will include such things as use of the standup paddleboards, craft activities, and a tour of the Chain O’Lakes. A unique family vacation where everyone will have fun and gain new skills. Who will be the better sailor, parents or children, by the end of the camp? Students generally look forward to sailing classes, some with excitement and others with a little trepidation. But once involved in placing the boat in the water, their smiles become larger and they become eager to sail, Winkiel said. With smiles and giggles, they begin to take charge of the sailboat and attempt to maneuver it through the water. With the instructor in the boat working with
SAILING • CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
top right: The excitement of learning how to sail brings happiness as this young girl learns to control the ropes during a Community Sailing School class. top left: One of the lessons learned at the Sailing School, is the importance of teamwork. These students are working together to roll up the sail for next day’s use after their lesson. KATHLEEN WINKIEL – COMMUNITY SAILING CLUB The Breeze
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CHAIN O’ LAKES BREEZE
JUNE 2021
SAILING • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 the student, correcting errors can be done easily before they become a major problem or bad habits are learned. The classes focus first on safety, then on fun, and then on learning to sail. Falling into the water is inevitable especially for first time sailors. Thus, the need to wear a life jacket. The instructors will get the student back into the craft and work with him or her on what they did to cause the fall and ways it can be prevented in the future.
Proper attire and equipment
When taking a sailing class, one does not just show up for class. There are a number of items that are necessary to bring for both comfort and safety. First and most important is a life vest, properly sized. A child-sized type111 Coast Guard PDF life vest is mandatory. Be sure it fits well and is comfortable. The kids and the instructors will wear the vest the entire time they are outside, in or around the water for their safety. Footwear is also important. Wear shoes that can get wet and won’t fall off. They should be able to be tied or fastened with Velcro to keep them on the child’s feet if he does fall in the water. Fastened sandals will also work, as will Aqua Socks. Aqua Socks are a special type of sock for use in the water. Sailing boots are also a good choice. The one type of footwear that may not be worn is flip-flops as they may flip off. Other items that are recommended for your sailor to bring include lunch and snacks. Sailing is strenuous work so they will need food. A refillable water bottle will help prevent dehydration. Sunscreen should be worn, even on days when it is overcast. A hat and sunglasses will be appreciated on hot and sunny days. Clothing often gets wet so a change of clothes (at least one) is in order. A towel to dry off and warm layers of clothing that can be added or removed as weather dictates.
Who’s sailing?
Not surprising, many of the first students at the Sailing School were children of members of the historic Pistakee Yacht Club. Today it is not only yacht club members’ children that make up the classes but also their friends and others in the area who just decide they would like to learn more about sailing. Sailing appeals to both males and females. While sometimes the teenage youth, especially the boys, are pulled into the world of the speedboats, it is surprising how they fall in love with sailing as they become adept at handling the boat and realize the power they have in controlling
the sailboat as it moves through the water. Learning to sail has been compared to learning to ride a bike. Once you learn, it is a lifetime skill. It returns when you pick it up again even after some time has elapsed. There may be a need for some updating and practice but the basic skill is there.
About the Community Sailing School
In 2012 yacht club members Jim Huemann and Kathleen Winkiel, along with two newer club members Sally Lucke Elkes and Tom Kartheiser, created a vision plan to form a new sailing club that would be independent of the yacht club but would rent space from the Pistakee Yacht Club. These four members formed a board and after choosing the name for the school, embarked on an ambitious fundraising campaign to raise $100,000 for the school. Through their efforts, the Community Sailing School was born. Fundraising has continued to support the sailing school allowing them to grow. Their biggest fundraiser has been the annual Gatsby Gala, a night of dining, dancing, and silent auctions at the yacht
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we hope that we will be able to return to holding the Gatsby Gala this year, but it is too early to tell at this time.” The Community Sailing School at Pistakee is held on the grounds of the historic Pistakee Yacht Club at 3300 Rocky Beach Lane, Johnsburg on Pistakee Bay. For more information about the club and available classes, visit the website at www. commsailpistakee.org, find it on Facebook or call 815-385-9871. Sign up your child or your family to learn more about sailing.
fom top: Time for a bit of one-on-one instruction. This student listens intently as his instructor explains how to maneuver around the round buoys in the water; With a smiling face, this young man is ready to sail. Like all members of the sailing classes, he is wearing a life vest for safety.
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club. Attendees dress in the costumes of the 1920s. A parade of the school’s boats with the students at the sails is also part of the program. Last year the Gatsby Gala was not able to be held because of the pandemic, which resulted in a loss of funds for this not-forprofit organization. “Because of the lack of income from the gala, this year we started a Go Fund Me page to raise money for the school,” Winkiel said. “It has been successful but
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JUNE 2021
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