Discover the world’s greatest yachting destinations, on your terms. Leave packed cruise ships and cookie-cutter vacations in your wake and experience the world as it was always meant to be - authentic, unscripted, and awe-inspiring. From the white-sand beaches of the Virgin Islands to the historic shores of Croatia or the vibrant blue waters of Tahiti, this is your chance to enjoy an extraordinary trip like no other. Immerse yourself in nature and create lasting memories as you explore the world side-by-side with those who mean the most to you.
It’s your vacation, make the most of it with The Moorings.
Boat Review: Two New Fishing Models from Sea-Doo
The Switch Fish pontoon boat and the FishPro Apex 300 PWC.
By
Kaylie Jasinski
31 A Real Retirement Adventure
Aubrey and Terri Smoot recently spent a year circumnavigating the Great Loop aboard their Aspen powercat.
Interview by Beth Crabtree
35
Preparing Your Powerboat for Winter Winterization tips and tricks.
By Drew Maglio
39
See the Bay: Chestertown, MD
Like so many Chesapeake Bay port towns, Chestertown goes way back to pre-revolutionary days.
By Mike Pitchford, Steve Sharkey, and Brian Leney
42
Easy Chartering Part III
Tips for making it through the first stressful day.
By Zuzana Prochazka
60
Fishing Hot Spot: Kiptopeke, VA
Where to stay and what species to target to have an awesome angling adventure.
By Kaylie Jasinski
Dave King’s photo of the Poppa Francis graces the cover this month. She is pictured here leaving the dock after being loaded to kick off a busy oyster restoration season with Oyster Recovery Partnership.
# Photo by Chris Cerino
LIVE LIFE AT SEA LEVEL
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EDIToR
Kaylie Jasinski, kaylie@proptalk.com
SENIoR EDIToR
Beth Crabtree, beth@proptalk.com
CoNTRIBUTING EDIToR
Lenny Rudow, FishTalk Angler In Chief, lenny@fishtalkmag.com
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CoNTRIBUTING WRITERS
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DISTRIBUTIoN
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PropTalk is a monthly magazine for and about Chesapeake Bay boaters. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited without prior consent of the officers of SpinSheet Publishing Company. SpinSheet Publishing Company accepts no responsibility for discrepancies in advertisements.
PropTalk is available by first class subscription for $45 a year, and back issues are available for $4 each. Mail payment to PropTalk Subscriptions, 612 Third Street, Suite 3C, Annapolis, MD, 21403.
PropTalk is distributed free of charge at more than 950 establishments along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. Businesses or organizations wishing to distribute PropTalk should contact the PropTalk office at (410) 216-9309 or beatrice@proptalk.com.
navigating peace of mind
Unpredictable waters
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, lled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Navigational exibility
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you nancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to speci ed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for nancing
If you nanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only ful lls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your nancial interests are safeguarded.
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the exibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with con dence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
A Happy Seneca Creek Boater
By Kaylie Jasinski
Aproject important to many that has been in the works for several years, finally got some good news recently. On September 9, Baltimore County executive Johnny Olszewski joined federal, state, and local elected officials and community stakeholders to celebrate plans to protect, preserve, and transform an 85-acrage parcel of the former Charles P. Crane facility grounds as waterfront park space.
When the C.P. Crane Generating Station, a coal-fired power plant, closed in 2018, there was a lot of discussion, and speculation, as to what would happen to the property. Would it be developed into single-family homes and/or condos? Would it be used for an industrial purpose? Or dare we say, could it be a park?
The former power plant property is located at the entrance of Seneca Creek, my home creek, on the Upper Chesapeake Bay. Up until just a few years ago, while no one liked the idea of living near an industrial plant, the red and white smokestacks were a constant beacon out on the Bay. They always showed me the way home. And it’s true what they say—‘better the devil you know than the devil you don’t.’ And no one knew what
would happen to the mostly marshy and undeveloped property after the plant closed.
It was acquired by Forsite Development in 2021 and the plant was demolished in 2022. During the fall of 2023, there were more serious talks about the possibility of preserving the land as open space and transforming it into a public park. Nearby communities along with the support of local politicians rallied together to advocate for the same great cause.
For many years my mom, Bonny Jasinski, worked tirelessly to help bring this project to fruition, from attending public hearings and testifying on behalf of our community to meeting with local politicians and members of
Forsite. The work took countless hours and often occurred behind the scenes and out of the public eye. I am enormously proud of her and all the work she has put into this project, because while there were many questions in the beginning, as of September, we all got the answer we had been hoping for.
The Baltimore County Council unanimously approved the acquisition of the property which is supported by $10 million in Maryland’s Program Open Space (POS) grant funds.
In a press release announcing the acquisition, Olszewski said, “Preserving this large, waterfront property for all to enjoy—even as we continue exploring additional land acquisition opportunities throughout Baltimore County—is all a
# Beautiful marshlands surround the former power plant property.
# My mom, fourth from left, spoke on behalf of the Seneca Park Community during the Sept. 9 ceremony.
#
part of our ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for our residents. I extend my thanks to our federal and state partners for their support on this meaningful acquisition, and Councilman Marks along with community members from Bowley’s Quarters and beyond, for their tireless advocacy on behalf of this scenic Seneca Creek space which will be enjoyed for generations to come.”
The property, located close to multiple county parks, will provide a connection supporting a regional park network with connected water trail access. And with so much overdevelopment around the Bay already, this was a huge win.
“With this acquisition, we are helping to create a nearly unbroken green space from Carroll Island to the Hammerman area of Gunpowder Falls State Park,” said Baltimore County Councilman David Marks. “It’s a huge win for Baltimore County’s Eastside and for our environment.”
The purchase is expected to be completed in the coming months. As a
community member who lives and boats adjacent to this property, I think it’s safe to say many of us took a collective sigh of relief, followed by an ecstatic ‘Hell yeah!’ when we heard the news. To know that this property will be preserved as green space for current and future generations feels pretty great. To everyone who worked on this project, and especially my mom, THANK
Help Locating Parts
“PYOU! Now each time I cruise past the former plant location or kayak through the surrounding marshes, as I watch fish jump while bald eagles soar overhead, I’ll be breathing a sigh of relief knowing that we won.
Letters
We recently received this letter from a reader and are hoping someone in our extended network can help with his request:
lease help me locate a source of parts for my boat. I’m restoring a 1995 Maxum 3255 SCR. I have put in two new engines. I have a list for all other parts of the boat, including names and numbers, but have no idea of where/whom to contact to get these parts?
“I have contacted the Maxum Boat Owners forum but have gotten no response. I have contacted all the mechanics at ours and nearby marinas (we are at the Jordan Point Marina in Virginia).
“Originally Bayliner and Sea Ray were owned by the same company as
Maxum (Brunswick Co.), but neither says they carry Maxum parts and can cross-check the part numbers.
“I get PropTalk monthly and see articles on people restoring boats. Please help me find a parts supplier for an older Maxum boat. I really want to get this boat in original condition. I’ll contact anyone in the USA, but just don’t know who/where. Please provide names, addresses, phone numbers for Maxum parts suppliers if you possibly can.
“So far, I’ve hit a dead-end everywhere I’ve searched. (That includes Great Lakes Skipper, who has some parts, but very limited).
“I really appreciate your efforts in this, my reach out for help. I’ve had my boat for two years now. It never crossed my mind that finding a source of original 1995 Maxum boat parts would be this hard. This is one of my ‘bucket-list’ items and being 80 years old maybe I shouldn’t have tried boating, but I did what I could afford and now want to see it through to completion.
“If you need my Hull I.D. number or any other identification information, just let me know. With your PropTalk distribution/readership I’m hoping this request is doable. You’re my last hope.” ~Tom Grant
Editor’s Note: PropTalk readers, if you know where/how to find Maxum boat parts, please reach out to Tom directly by phone, (434) 2489518, or email at l.h.grant@att.net. I would love to be able to help him finish his bucket list project. Any suggestions are welcome!
Send your questions, comments and stories to kaylie@proptalk.com
The former C.P. Crane power plant before it was demolished in 2022.
Meet Biscotti
Owners Nicki and Donald Plata share this photo of their Aussie doodle Biscotti, who just turned four on July 6. They say, “She is a rescue dog, born with a genetic eye disorder, but that doesn’t stop her from being a sail girl! Biscotti is adventurous and loves the water. She also loves being at Anchorage Marina in Baltimore where adults and children stop by to say hi to her.”
Meet Tiller
Bill Carruth shares this photo of his puppy, Tiller, just seven months old at the time. They are pictured on Carruth’s Steiger Miami 21 deep vee on the Severn River en-route to Lake Ogleton. He says, “Tiller is an Australian labradoodle, which means she barks with an accent!”
Want to see your boat dog featured in PropTalk? Email one to three photos and a short description to kaylie@proptalk.com.
Fall is Here - Safe Boating Tips and Hurricane Prep
The arrival of autumn signals a shift in our boating. Cooler air and water temperatures mean extra precautions must be taken to be safe out on the water, while fall also means hurricane season. BoatUS has tips to keep both us and our boats safe in the changing season.
Safe Boating Tips:
Lifejackets—Unexpected falls overboard could be big trouble fast, so wear a lifejacket that fits over your clothing or consider investing in a float coat (a combination winter jacket and PFD). A lifejacket or float coat can give you more time to self-recover as there are fewer boaters on the water, decreasing your chance for good Samaritan help. Some of the most comfortable lifejackets today are inflatable models and can be easily worn over outer gear, but keep in mind inflatable jackets should not be used when air temperatures are expected to be below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Proper Clothing—While it may be a sunny October day when you head out just wearing a T-shirt, ensure that it’s synthetic or wool, as wet cotton has no thermal value. Additional layers can be added as the day and temperatures change. It’s also a good idea to keep a spare set of clothing aboard in a drybag. If it looks like rain is in the forecast or you expect to become wet from sea spray, invest in some foul weather gear—a rain jacket and rain pants or bibs will go a long way to keeping you dry and comfortable, and will also help block out the wind.
Batteries—While smartphones work in all seasons, battery performance declines as temperatures drop. On average, a cellphone battery can last two to three years, or 300 to 500 charge cycles, depending how much it’s used and recharged. The biggest drain on battery life is the energy your phone uses trying to find and connect to Wi-Fi or data networks. With all these variables, don’t trust that your phone’s battery life will be there for you when you need it. Carry a spare power pack aboard when cold weather boating. You don’t want to lose a critical navigation app, or the ability to call for help if necessary. The same goes for personal locator beacon batteries.
For a closer look a cold weather boating, go to BoatUS.org/cold-water-boating
Hurricane Prep:
When it comes to protecting your boat from hurricanes and tropical storms, there are so many factors to consider, depending in part on where you keep your boat (on land, in a slip, on a lift…).
To find tips for your specific situation, we highly recommend visiting the BoatUS website. The storm-planning help, easily downloadable and all available free, includes a BoatUS Magazine Hurricane Preparations Guide and Hurricane Preparation Worksheet you can easily take to the boat to review to ensure you haven’t missed anything, and a Guide for Preparing Boats and Marinas for Hurricanes.
A playlist, which includes hurricane preparation videos, makes it easy to understand the steps to take and additional articles, such as how to use protected canals or why some lines break before others, are also available.
Visit BoatUS.com/Hurricanes for upto-the-minute storm tracking tools with live satellite images and checklists for what to do before and after a hurricane strikes.
# Boating safety changes as temperatures cool. Photo by Alyssia Greiner, courtesy of BoatUS
Champions of the Chesapeake
Chesapeake Conservancy has honored Defensores de la Cuenca co-founder and executive director Abel Olivo, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin, and U.S. Representative John Sarbanes as Champions of the Chesapeake, the organization’s most prestigious honor recognizing extraordinary leaders from across the Chesapeake.
Chesapeake Conservancy’s president and CEO Joel Dunn and executive vice president of external affairs Mark Conway presented the award to Abel Olivo during the Festival del Rio Anacostia, which works to improve and promote the well-being of Latine residents in the Anacostia watershed.
“Abel Olivo and Defensores de la Cuenca are fostering the next generation of Chesapeake Bay advocates and conservation leaders,” said Conway. “People of Hispanic or Latin descent represent roughly eight percent of the more than 18 million residents of the Chesapeake watershed. Abel’s leadership has enabled Defensores de la Cuenca to introduce thousands of Spanish speakers to outdoor experiences through tree plantings, trash clean-ups, professional development opportunities, and more. Core to our mission, Chesapeake Conservancy applauds Defensores de la Cuenca’s efforts to ensure the outdoors are welcoming places for everyone to restore their mind, body, and soul.”
Olivio stated, “At Defensores de la Cuenca we are building a network of Latino leaders who are taking action to support Madre Tierra.
Through family-friendly events and educational initiatives, we create spaces that are welcoming and inviting, ensuring that Latin@/e participants have fun and make positive connections to nature. We share information about the myriad ways the environment impacts us and how we, in turn, impact the environment. This grassroots approach fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, empowering our community to advocate for policies that reflect our values and needs.”
Olivo continued, “When Latino voices are included in environmental policymaking, the policies that emerge are more equitable, just, and effective. Our perspectives bring a unique understanding of the interconnectedness of community health, environmental justice, and economic sustainability. What we are building is essentially a movement. It is incredibly special to receive recognition from the Chesapeake Conservancy for the monumental work that we are undertaking to build capacity at the community level.”
Awards to Senator Cardin and Representative Sarbanes were presented at the
31st annual Maryland Land Conservation Conference convened by Forever Maryland, a nonprofit founded to promote and advance land conservation statewide through education, advocacy, and outreach.
At that time Dunn stated, “U.S. Senator Ben Cardin and Congressman John Sarbanes are two of the Chesapeake’s fiercest advocates in the United States Congress. During their time in office, they championed funding for Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts and the important work of the Chesapeake Bay Program, led efforts to establish the proposed Chesapeake National Recreation Area (which would bring National Park Service status to the nation’s largest estuary), and fought for clean water, biodiversity, equitable public access to the Chesapeake Bay, and land conservation.”
“The Chesapeake Bay is one of our largest estuaries and the lifeblood of Maryland’s economy and culture. It has been an honor of a lifetime to spend my career working with partners like Congressman John Sarbanes and so many dedicated partners, like the Chesapeake Conservancy, to protect and preserve our treasured Bay,” said Senator Cardin.
“It is an honor to be presented with the Champions of the Chesapeake award alongside my friend and longtime Bay advocate, Senator Ben Cardin,” said Congressman Sarbanes. “Like those who live and work across the watershed region, I share a passion for protecting our environment and know that preserving national treasures like the Chesapeake Bay is essential to addressing climate change, driving economic growth, and ensuring the well-being of the next generation.”
Chesapeake Conservancy’s mission is to conserve and restore the natural and cultural resources of the Chesapeake Bay watershed for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. Learn more at chesapeakeconservancy.org.
# U.S. Senator Ben Cardin
# U.S. Representative John Sarbanes
# (LtoR) Chesapeake Conservancy’s Mark Conway, Defensores de la Cuenca co-founder and executive director Abel Olivo, and Chesapeake Conservancy president and CEO Joel Dunn. Photo by Ken Nadali Photography
Tug, Tug, Tug!
The much-loved annual Maritime Republic of Eastport (MRE) Tug of War will rock both shores of Spa Creek on November 2 as the 25th edition unfolds. This over-the-water endurance event pits teams of tuggers on each side of the ‘Gulf of Eastport.’ They pull on a specially made 800-pound rope that is extended over the Annapolis Harbor. The event is for fun, bragging rights, and to raise money for charitable organizations.
On the Eastport side, you’ll find tuggers and fans on Second Street next to the Chart House restaurant. On the Annapolis side they will rally at Susan Campbell Park at City Dock. Tugging starts at the crack o’ noon.
After all the heats are over and the winning side is declared, it’s party time. There will be music, dancing, food, and libations on both sides of the Spa Creek Bridge.
Patti Slaughter, Premier of the MRE, says, “Over the years we have donated more than $900,000 to local charities. We have a strong team of more than 100 volunteers, and more are still needed. Information about signing up for a tug team will be posted as we get closer to the event.”
This year, for the first time the tug will be live streamed. Find it through the Where In Annapolis app.
The Tug got its start in 1998 when the Eastport Bridge closed for repairs. One of many events to promote merriment and independence (also to promote business in Eastport during the long bridge closure), the Tug has lived on and remains a wellloved day-long party on both sides of Spa Creek each year.
To volunteer, sponsor the event, or learn more visit themre.org.
# The 25th MRE Tug of War on November 2 will be live streamed for the first time.
Photo courtesy MRE/Facebook
Stay Tuned! Fish For a Cure Fundraising Auction Coming Soon
For the past several years, Team FishTalk/PropTalk has hosted an online auction to support our team’s fundraising efforts for Fish For a Cure (F4AC). As many of you know, F4AC is a fishing tournament and fundraising challenge, and all funds raised directly benefit the Cancer Survivorship Program at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s Geaton and JoAnn DeCesaris Cancer Institute. The tournament takes place November 9, but the real bragging rights go to the team that raises the most money for a great cause.
Last year, our team came in 10th in the fundraising challenge surpassing our goal of $10,000 by raising $12,380. We also won both the Grand Slam fishing category (longest stringer of three unique Bay sportfish species) and the Invasives category. Since 2017, we have raised more than $75,000 for charity!
This year our goal is to raise $12,000. To do that, we will be announcing our fundraising auction very soon. The auction will be held on FishTalk’s Facebook page at facebook.com/fishtalkmag.com. We will have a gallery of items in which to bid on including a guided fishing trip with Lenny Rudow, a guided goose hunt with Bryan Point Outfitters, a Mustang PFD, Spy Optic sunglasses, a cooler, weekend stays, fishing art from our very own Eric Packard, and more!
Once the auction is live, we will post an album with separate photos of each item up for bid and participants must enter their bid in the comments section of their desired item. To be sure that you are seeing the current bids, click “all comments” and then “view more comments.” Once the auction concludes, we will ask the highest bidder to make their donation on our team page at Fish For A Cure: fishtalkmag.com/f4ac. If you have any questions, we are always here to help, so stay tuned, and get ready to bid!
Located in Shady Side, MD, offering a warm & vibrant community with quick access to the Bay, Annapolis & Eastern Shore. Membership provides so much more than just a place to keep your boat. Escape. Relax. Enjoy!
New state-of-the-art floating docks
River view pool, clubhouse and restaurant
Boating and non-boating memberships
Reciprocity with 100s of clubs worldwide
To enter the tournament, learn more about the cause, purchase Shore Party tickets, or make a donation, visit fishforacure.org
# One of Eric Packard’s original paintings up for auction last year.
Enjoy Maryland Seafood and Win Prizes
Earlier this summer, Maryland’s Best, a marketing program of the Maryland Department of Agriculture, announced the release of the Maryland’s Best Seafood, Eat Food pass. Consumers who sign up for the pass will use it to explore Maryland restaurants dishing out fresh and local seafood.
“Maryland is known for its blue crabs, but we also have many other local seafood options now, such as perch, farm-raised oysters, wild Chesapeake blue catfish,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture secretary Kevin Atticks. “I invite Maryland residents and visitors to sign up and start eating your way through the state.”
The pass, developed in partnership with Bandwango, aims to encourage the consumption of fresh Maryland seafood. Consumers can head to the Maryland’s Best website and follow the instructions to download the web-based platform. From there, simply select a
restaurant on the list or a seafood event, check in on the platform, and build up points to win prizes includ ing a Seafood, Eat Food cutlery set, water bottle, or “Shuck Yeah, I ate Maryland Seafood” T-shirt.
“Not only are you enjoying delicious seafood from Maryland’s waterways, you are also supporting local jobs and the economy by ensur ing you’re eating local,” said Stepha nie Pazzaglia, chair of the Maryland Seafood Marketing Commission.
The campaign runs through Octo ber 31, and you can collect points up to once a day until then.
Best of all? It’s free to sign up and you don’t have to download an app. Visit marylandsbest.maryland. gov/seafood-eat-food to get started, and don’t delay! You only have a few weeks left to participate so sign up, support local restaurants and water men, enjoy delicious seafood, and win prizes.
# The web-based passport is free to use; no need to download an app!
Boaters and anglers who have volunteered to help get veterans and their families out on the water tell us it is one of the most rewarding things they’ve ever done. Most of the nonprofit programs that take veterans out on the water need all kinds of volunteers: captains and boats, individuals to set up and serve meals, crew during the on-water excursions, anglers with teaching skills, and sponsors to donate funds, fishing gear, and more. Here is a sampling of regional programs for veterans and their families. Maybe one will speak to you.
Boaters Serving Veterans
Chesapeake Regional Accessible Boating (CRAB) offers customized programming for recovering and disabled veterans, including sailing clinics and regattas, fishing excursions, and more. CRAB has a fleet of adaptive sailboats and a Gemini Freestyle 399 powercatamaran that can accommodate up to five guests in wheelchairs. crabsailing.org
Heroes on the Water helps warriors, first responders, and their families relax, rehabilitate, and reintegrate through kayak fishing and being outdoors. heroesonthewater.org
Heroes Outdoor Therapy connects veterans with outdoor-friendly recreation by working with nonprofits, outfitters, and charters. They plan, coordinate, fund, and guide recreational trips all over the country for veterans. heroesoutdoortherapy.org
Project Healing Waters was created to rehabilitate vets through fly-fishing. Started in 2005 serving wounded military service members at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the program has expanded nationally. The Maryland Park Service partners with Project Healing Waters on activities
and events in Maryland’s 75 state parks. projecthealingwaters.org
Valhalla Sailing Project teaches recovering, transitioning, or wounded veterans to sail and race on the Chesapeake, helping them to regain and recapture their sense of teamwork, family, community, and self. Its mission is to prevent veteran suicide. valhallasailing.org
Wounded Warriors Day on the Bay provides a stress-free day on the Bay for veterans and their families. Its next annual outing will take place August 16, 2025. wwdayonthebay.org
U.S. Patriot Sailing inspires wounded, disabled, and combat veterans to navigate new horizons through the competitive sport of sailing, with chapters in Annapolis, MD; Hampton Roads, VA; and San Diego, CA. uspatriotsailing.org
Did we miss your favorite organization that takes veterans out on the water? Email beth@proptalk.com.
# Courtesy of Project Healing Waters
Working in the Marine Trades, One Step at a
Time
When 18-year-old Blaise Edwards’s mom stopped by the Port Annapolis booth at the Annapolis Powerboat Show, she picked up a card and handed it to him, saying he should call to see if they needed anyone. His phone call led to on-the-job training starting in April 2024 and full-time employment by the end of the summer. Here’s what he told PropTalk:
work and doing things over and over again. You have to do that and stay dedicated to get bigger jobs in the future. You might not get every job, so apply to a bunch.
MaRINE sERVICE
Did you have any skills going into it, or did they teach you everything? I had some skills just from growing up sailing and powerboating, but other than that, they taught me most of the mechanical parts and professional side of how to fix things. Who was your mentor, or were there a few of them?
My manager is Richard Krolak. At Port Annapolis, we have a bunch of service people in different departments—rigging, engines, systems, and paint. They rotated me through the departments (except for paint) based on what person needed extra hands. At the start, I was just following people around and listening; now I’ve been doing more by myself, and they check my work at the end.
Can you list some specific jobs you did?
I learned how to replace a new bilge pump, cutting the wires and splicing them back in… We stepped a mast and took it out of a boat, removed a sail and stowed it (or sent it off to be fixed) for winter storage. I have been working with the lift crew hauling out boats.
What is your job now, and what do you hope to do there in the future? I work where I’m needed because they’re trying to build my experience in all departments. I enjoy the rigging and lift crew. I like cranes and big machines; it’s really cool to see those big boats getting lifted up. What would you recommend to young people considering marine trades work?
Make sure that you’re dedicated, because sometimes it feels like busy
# Blaise Edwards at work at Port Annapolis.
Boatbuilding History in Annapolis Q&A
With Author David Gendell
e asked PropTalk co-founder David Gendell some questions about his latest book, “The Schooner America: A Lost Icon at the Annapolis Warship Factory,” and his research process. Here are his responses:
When you first started researching the fate of the Schooner America, did you know anything about the Annapolis Warship Factory?
I knew there was Navy boatbuilding at scale at Eastport in World War 2 and sporadically at other points before and after that war, but I did not understand the scope of what went on in WW2 or the amazing entrepreneurial and operational aspects of the shipbuilding. What surprised you about PT boats when you researched warships built here?
The Patrol Torpedo boats built at Annapolis (and elsewhere) were tactical offensive weapons that were built to operate very surgically, in shallow water, with the element of surprise, and to pack a hard punch and get away quickly. In many ways today’s Naval Special Warfare
Shopping
community is directly descended from the WW2 PT boats. The biggest surprise to me was the speed of the boats... a wooden 70-footer running up to 47 knots!
How did you learn about the boatyard culture at that time in Annapolis?
Some things are timeless: the motivations and relationships between those who fund the boats, those who work on the boats, and the connective tissue between the two groups. This was in place at the Annapolis Yacht Yard in the 1930s and 40s, and in many ways it is still in place today. I firmly believe that the great marine industry we enjoy at Annapolis in the 21st century is directly descended from the work
at the Annapolis Yacht Yard during WW2 where hundreds of people were thoroughly trained and gained experience in all aspects of boating business from design to carpentry to electronics to rigging to marketing, sales, and back office. After the war, as Annapolis evolved into a yachting center, those people went out and formed the foundation of the marine industry we all know and love today. You’ve known a lot of historians in Annapolis can you name the most important influences on you?
I love and live by the William Faulkner quote: “I discovered that my own little postage stamp of native soil was worth writing about and that I would never live long enough to exhaust it.” Although in this case we might
substitute “patch of brackish water” for “native soil.” To that end, I get great energy from reading, learning from, and, if possible, spending time with those who feel similarly.
There are, of course, a few specific people who influence and inspire me along the way. Gary Jobson has an insatiable amount of energy and curiosity, and I would add “sailing historian” to the long list of descriptors associated with him. Over the years I was lucky enough to develop close friendships with history-minded sailors such as the late David Dunigan, Fred Hecklinger, and Laurence Hartge, all of whom were deeply influential in the America project.
In terms of getting deep into Annapolis and the specific history here I have been lucky enough to call Carol Patterson and Jane McWilliams friends and influences (together they wrote the history of Annapolis’s Bay Ridge neighborhood, and McWilliams is the author of the seminal “Annapolis, City on the Severn”).
# Motor Torpedo Boat 275 was the first Torpedo Boat built at the Annapolis Yacht Yard. Annapolis Maritime Museum, Erik & Thea Almen Collection.
What’s next for you?
I am under contract to deliver another book to the same publisher. “Battles at Annapolis: Army, Navy, and Two Remarkable Football Games” is scheduled to be published in August 2025. It covers the 1893 and 1942 Army-Navy football games, the last
Don’t Let Your Motor Choke To Death!
Take Control of the 3 Most Common Fuel Related Engine Problems:
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Leaks
two played at Annapolis. These two games were played under unique circumstances by young men who, not long after the games, were involved in extraordinary combat service on behalf of the United States. Find updates at davidgendellbooks.com.
Stop by for stocking stuffers, hats, tees, hoodies or dog gifts. Gift cards, too!
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cca anglers Night out Gather 5:30 p.m., talk at 6 p.m. at Fisherman’s Inn in Grasonville, MD. Join CCA for a talk on angling tactics with Eddie Weber (@Severn. River.Angler), talking about all the dos and don’ts around targeting Snakehead.
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Precious cargo: the amazing collection at the mariners’ museum 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News, VA. Free for members, $10 for guests. The lecture will also be livestreamed and is free to watch online. The Mariners’ Heritage Collection of 35,000 objects is one of the most regarded in the United States, and worldwide.
19 cheers for clean beer 12 to 5 p.m. at Susky River Beverage Co. in Perryville, MD. This event is organized by The High 5 Initiative and aligned with the passing of the Clean Water Act. The aim is to make the connection between our rivers and the local drinking water, which includes making beer at Susky River farm brewery and other local breweries.
October
19-20 58th annual U.S. National oyster Festival
At the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds in Leonardtown, MD. Great entertainment, shucking contest, oyster tastings, and more. Single day admission $15 or weekend pass for $25, kids 12 and under are free.
26 oysterFest
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD. Celebrate the Bay’s favorite bivalve with an array of tasty food and beverage options including oysters, live music, an oyster slurp-off, retriever demonstrations, children’s activities, and more.
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Yorktown market Days - Paws at the river
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Riverwalk Landing in Yorktown, VA. This special day is designed to bring awareness to animal rescue organizations and help place adoptable pets in their furever homes. Featuring a pet portrait station, delicious doggy delights, and informational booths, also trick-or-treating for the kids. Free.
26 Sailabration: Sailing traditions in Ink
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fell’s Point Broadway Pier in Baltimore, MD. A festival celebrating the lives of sailors and the art of tattooing, featuring live tattoo demonstrations, music and performances, tall ships, and more. Presented by the Pride of Baltimore II.
25 - Nov 2
Ghost Ship - Get Shipwrecked on the SS John W. Brown
Once adrift throughout the oceans of the world, the ghost ship is now tied on Pier 13 in Baltimore, MD, and waiting for you! Aboard the Liberty Ship SS John W. Brown. Opens at 7:30 p.m., last tickets sold at 10 p.m. This event is open for children 12 years or above and supervised at all times. Tickets $35 at ssjohnwbrown. org
27 Public cruise on Tennison
2 to 3 p.m. at the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons, MD. Relax and enjoy a leisurely one-hour sightseeing cruise on the river aboard the Wm. B. Tennison, a historic buyboat. $9 for adults, $5 for children (infant through 12 years).
28 caPca monthly meeting 6:45 to 8:30 p.m. (inperson and hybrid) at the Annapolis Elks Lodge in Edgewater, MD. Speaker: Capt. Bob Schwartz. Topic: Occoquan River - Working Together to Keep the Waters Safe. Chesapeake Area Professional Captain’s Association.
Chesapeake Calendar
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the archaeology of harriet tubman’s birthplace 5:30 p.m. at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Van Lennep Auditorium in St. Michaels, MD, and available virtually. In late 2020, a team of archaeologists began searching a remote part of Dorchester County for evidence of Harriet Tubman’s early life. In this talk, Dr. Julie Schablitsky will provide a look at the historical research and archaeological work that has gone into locating and interpreting these early Tubman sites. Tickets: $8.
30 Public cruise on Tennison 2 to 3 p.m. at the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons, MD. Relax and enjoy a leisurely one-hour sightseeing cruise on the river aboard the Wm. B. Tennison, a historic buyboat. $9 for adults, $5 for children (infant through 12 years).
November
2 eastport tug of War
At the crack o’ noon on the Spa Creek Bridge. The longest international Tug of War over water in the world! All funds raised benefit various charitable organizations in the Annapolis area.
2 madness on the marshyhope Invasive catfish tournament and food festival at Federalsburg Marina and Recreational Park in Federalsburg, MD. Target species: blue catfish and northern snakehead. Sign up to volunteer for the day with CCA at ccamd.org or register for the tournament.
2 FSFF monthly Fly tying 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Free State Fly Fishers clubhouse (behind Ford Hall) at the Davidsonville Family Rec Center. Join FSFF as one of its members instructs guests on how to tie a couple of fly patterns and demonstrates proper tying techniques. All materials will be provided. Please bring your vise and tying tools if you have them. Questions: rybeer@gmail.com
3
time change - Fall back At 2 a.m., turn your clocks back to 1 a.m. and enjoy that extra hour of sleep.
6
FSFF monthly meeting 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Free State Fly Fishers Clubhouse (behind Ford Hall) at the Davidsonville, MD, Family Rec. Center. Speaker: Joe Bruce. Questions: rybeer@gmail.com
8 the Guns of cSS Virginia 12 to 1 p.m. at the Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News, VA. The Confederate ironclad that fought in Hampton Roads on March 8-9, 1862, had a mixed armament of shell guns, rifled guns, hot shot guns, howitzers, and a ram. Free for museum members, included in $1 admission. Also livestreamed and free to watch online.
8-10 easton Waterfowl Festival
For three days, discover the best of local wildlife, nature, art, heritage, food, and fun at the Waterfowl Festival in Easton, MD. Tickets: waterfowlfestival.org
9 Fish For a cure
F4AC is a fishing and fundraising competition that supports the Cancer Survivorship Program at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s Geaton and JoAnn DeCesaris Cancer Institute. The 18th annual tournament, Paul C. Dettor Captain’s Challenge, and Shore Party (5-9 p.m.) will take place at Safe Harbor Annapolis. Shore Party tickets cost $150 per person for those not in the tournament. Donate or register at fishforacure.org
13
Frederick Saltwater anglers monthly meeting
Food starts at 6 p.m. followed by meeting at 7 p.m. at 289 Willowdale Drive, Frederick, MD 21702. Each meeting has a speaker, vendor, prize raffle, and 50/50.
16 FSFF hands-on Session
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Free State Fly Fishers Clubhouse (behind Ford Hall) at the Davidsonville, MD, Family Rec. Center. Club member Jim Del Bovi is going to address kayak fishing safety in tidal waters. Questions: rybeer@gmail.com
16 Yorktown market Daysharvest Festival
9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Riverwalk Landing in Yorktown, VA. Kids young and old will enjoy this autumn extravaganza, which features a live animal show, petting zoo, balloon art, inflatable axe throwing, hay rides, and a pie eating contest. Purchase holiday staples like turkey, sweet potatoes, green beans, cornbread, dinner rolls, and pumpkin pie. Local jewelers, painters, and photographers will also be selling their holiday handiwork. Free.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD. The event highlights artisans and craftspeople who come from near and far to exhibit and sell coastal and sea-glass related jewelry, home decor, art, and more. Tickets: $10 for members, $22 for non-members.
30 middle river lighted boat Parade
The Mid-Atlantic’s largest lighted boat parade and almost the largest in the US! In Middle River, MD. To register, text name, address, and boat type to (410) 463-2686. Gift cards in excess of $300 for every captain!
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rrYc lights on the creek lighted boat Parade
Hosted by the Rappahannock River
Yacht Club (RRYC) on Carters Creek in Irvington, VA. Parade forms at 5:30 p.m. near Custom Yacht Service on the eastern branch of Carters Creek. RRYC will be open to the public to watch the parade and will host a post-parade party at 7 p.m. Prizes. The parade is open to any type or size of boat.
Two New Fishing Models from Sea-Doo
By Kaylie Jasinski
Last month I had the opportunity to test out two new fishing-focused models from Sea-Doo on Gull Lake in Minnesota—the FishPro Apex 300 PWC and the Switch Fish pontoon boat. Let’s break down both here.
TFishPro Apex 300
he FishPro lineup from Sea-Doo has been around since 2019, but for 2025, Sea-Doo has introduced an exclusive model. All of the FishPro models share similar advantages such as the ability to access more water, less prep and cleanup thanks to having a smaller watercraft, faster travel to and from fishing spots, the ability to get anglers closer to the water and the fish, a lower purchase price and operating costs, easily accessible features, and a flexibility that moves beyond fishing to family fun on a PWC.
The FishPro Apex 300 is the most advanced and exclusive fishing-specific watercraft in the lineup, and it’s only available for a limited one-year production run.
Equipped with advanced combustion efficiency (ACE), this pulse-pounding 300-hp Rotax 1630 three-cylinder engine is supercharged with an external intercooler, delivering high efficiency and amazing acceleration. This allows anglers the flexibility to travel farther distances to the fishing grounds and get there in a hurry. The ride is made more comfortable thanks to the adjustable steering damper that smooths the adventure by reducing the amount of feedback riders feel through the handlebars.
This model comes equipped with all the standard tournament-worthy features of the FishPro Trophy, such as a modular swivel seat, a 51 L LinQ cooler with integrated livewell and washdown, and an iDF (Intelligent Debris Free) pump system that affords riders the ability to clear a clogged intake with just the push of a button.
Other standout features include a nineinch Garmin fish finder GPS; seven rod holders; a rear deck extension, which adds stability and four LinQ attachment points that allow riders to carry more tackle, equipment, or fuel for the day’s adventures; a tall touring windshield; an adjustable handlebar riser; pop-up cleats to make docking easier and which store out of the way when not in use; and a heavyduty grab handle that makes beaching, launching, and landing safer and easier. While testing out the FishPro Apex 300 in Minnesota, I was impressed initially by its maneuverability, responsiveness, and of course, speed. This is no sluggish watercraft bogged down by gear—it’s a lean, mean, fish-fighting machine! I easily got mine up to 65 mph while zipping around Gull Lake, though I found 45 to be a nice cruising speed. The beauty of that was that we could fish one spot for an
hour or so and if the fish weren’t biting, we could be miles away in a matter of minutes. Fishing PWCs are sometimes compared to fishing kayaks for their ability to get anglers closer to the water and into areas less accessible for larger boats, but again, that speed is where the real difference lies. Where kayak anglers may usually only travel a few miles from their launch point, PWCs open up a whole new playing field.
The 360-degree modular swivel seat, accessible from the bench seat, allows for added comfort and a higher viewpoint while fishing stationary, and if you want to get even higher, anglers can stand on the large and stable rear platform. There’s plenty of room even with a cooler on the stern. In fact, I could walk all around the PWC and it never felt as though it would tip over.
I fished while stationary and while trolling, and there was really only one thing I would add—the ability to have some sort of spot-lock system to save anglers from frequent adjustments if fishing in tight quarters. However, many anglers do not have this ability and they do just fine, and it did not hinder my fishing fun in the least. In fact, this was one of the more enjoyable experiences I’ve had fishing from a smaller watercraft in quite some time.
# The author testing out the Sea-Doo FishPro Apex 300.
Switch Fish
Last year we wrote about the Switch, Sea-Doo’s jet-propelled tri-hull pontoon boat, and now the company has introduced the Switch Fish for fishing enthusiasts.
Available in 18- and 21-foot lengths, both Switch Fish models are powered by the Rotax 1630 ACE 230-hp engine (the 18-footer is also available with a 170-hp engine).
The beauty of the Switch lineup is their versatility—these boats are like your own personal Lego set with the ability to basically “build” your own boat. Simply relocate the seats, tables, coolers, and any other accessories with ease to fit your needs. In fact, thanks to the LinQ attachment system, you could change the entire layout of the boat each and every time you go out on the water, depending on whether it will be a fishing excursion or a day of family cruising fun.
Some of the standard fishing features include a fully integrated from the factory bow-mounted Garmin Force Kraken trolling motor, two Garmin fish finders (one at the bow and one at the helm), two fishing pedestal seats, a quick-attach 68 L LinQ cooler and livewell, a dedicated locking storage space for tackle and valuables, a separate quick-access rod storage compartment for up to four rods, front and rear corner doors to provide easy access to the dock and the water, and more.
One other thing I really liked about this model—everything is on one level. Most traditional center console fishing boats have forward and/or rear casting decks that require a step up. On rough days this can sometimes prove a little dicey, so from an accessibility and a safety standpoint, I can definitely see the benefits of having the
entire deck layout on one flat level. After testing out the Switch Cruise Limited last year, it’s safe to say that this model was fully designed with the angler in mind—Sea-Doo did not simply throw a few rod holders on an existing model. And like all models in the lineup, this is a pontoon that handles like a PWC. Equipped with Sea-Doo exclusive iBR (Intelligent Brake and Reverse) technology, the Switch is the only pontoon on the market with a braking system. Throttle, brake, and reverse are controlled with bicycle handbrake-style levers which makes steering, docking, launching, and loading a breeze. Each Switch also comes standard with a trailer, with the aim of easing the ownership experience, especially for new boaters.
To learn more about either of these models, visit sea-doo.brp.com. And stay tuned for our video review!
# Trolling off the stern of the Sea-Doo Switch Fish.
A Re A l Reti R ement Adventu
R e
FGreat Loop
Interview by Beth Crabtree
or Chesapeake boaters Aubrey and Terri Smoot, there was a time when a cruise to Tangier Island felt like a big trip, but after traveling 8239 miles on the Great Loop, a run to Tangier seems like going around the corner. The couple recently spent a year, with their good dog, Yudee, circumnavigating the Loop aboard their Aspen powercat Shorebilly Too. They arrived home to the Southern Bay in April. Here they share in their own words some highlights of the trip and tips for those considering the Loop.
Planting the seed of adventure
Terri: One night over docktails in 2008 a family friend mentioned a route that could take a boater around the eastern half of North America. That planted the seed of adventure. As we headed towards retirement, the question was, “what would we do with all that time?” With the Great Loop growing larger and larger in Aubrey’s mind, the answer was obvious.
A boat for the Loop and beyond
Aubrey: Our Loop boat, the Shorebilly Too, is a 37.5-foot, 22-inch-draft Aspen C-108 powercatamaran, very different from the typical Loop boat. We wanted a boat that would endure past our Great
Loop trip and handle the choppy conditions of our home cruising grounds of the Southern Chesapeake. Aspen is characterized by its asymmetric hull design, which allows us to travel at 20-plus mph in threefoot seas and still drink coffee. In two-foot seas you don’t even notice the conditions. Shorebilly’s speed, efficiency, and capability meant we were able to do a bigger Loop than many. We took many side trips and saw some spectacular sights. For instance, traveling from Quebec City to Montreal against the eightplus-mph current of the St. Lawrence wasn’t an issue because we had the power and speed to overcome the challenge. Cutting across Lake Michigan only took a
# On the Tennessee River, heading toward Chattanooga.
few hours, and when we cut back, we caught right back up to the rest of the fleet. Jumping out to the Bahamas in less than desirable conditions was an option given no other window was forecast for at least 10 days.
One of the best features of the Aspen C-108 is that it is trailerable, so we can tow it back to areas of the Loop we wish to revisit. It’s the perfect size for cruising, docking, managing locks, and pleasure cruising.
# Going into Morton’s Bay on the Rideau Canal. It was a perfect swimming hole, and we spent the afternoons diving off the boat.
Rethinking the wonders of the world
Terri: In New York, we headed up the Hudson River all the way to Lake Champlain, and from there we took the Richelieu River to the mighty Saint Lawrence River. Instead of heading west to Montreal, we headed northeast to Quebec City. Wow!
Aubrey: Next, we turned the Shorebilly Too around and fought the St. Lawrence all the way back to Montreal. Double wow!! We hopped over to Ottawa and the beautiful Rideau Canal, which snakes through the Canadian waterways to Kingston, ON. This allowed us to play in the Thousand Islands and Clayton, NY.
Industrial rivers to white sand beaches
We ducked back deep into Lake Ontario to a little-known location called Main Duck Island. This was a whole other level of pretty! We shot up to enter the Trent-Severn Waterway, and the world kept getting prettier. When we entered the Georgian Bay, the beauty kept increasing. We transitioned to the North Channel of Lake Huron—even prettier.
Terri: We loved anchoring out in remote areas with lots of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and rafting with Looper friends. As pretty as the scenery is, the people you meet might be the number one attraction. It’s the ultimate cohort of like-minded people, all with a sense of adventure, all experiencing something new; all going in the same direction.
Leaving the amazing beauty of Canada behind us was actually depressing until we hit Mackinac Island—and a trip we thought couldn’t get any better did. The island and the trip down Lake Michigan make you rethink the wonders of the world. We zig-zagged across Lake Michigan allowing us to explore both the east and west sides. The northeast side of the lake has towns that can’t be missed. Door County, on the northwest side in Wisconsin, was equally stunning. Shooting back to the southeast side of the lake yielded fun places like Luddington, Pentwater, Saugatuck, and St. Joseph before heading back across to Chicago.
Aubrey: Due to lock maintenance by the Army Corps of Engineers, we got held up for several weeks waiting for the locks south of Chicago to open. America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association’s (AGLCA) executive director, Kim Russo, who was there for us whenever there was a challenge, worked diligently to organize the backed-up Loopers into 20-plus flotillas and negotiate with the Corps to schedule pleasure craft locking.
Eventually we reached the Northern Mississippi River and at the Ohio River made a short jaunt north to Kentucky Lake which gave us access to the Tennessee River, where we detoured to Chattanooga allowing us to see the fall foliage reflect off the pristine waters (and the Chattanooga Choo-Choo). The industrial American inland rivers were impressive and travelling on them was a unique way to experience the heartbeat of the country.
From the Tennessee River we connected with the Tennessee-Tombigbee Canal, and the Tombigbee led us to Mobile Bay, where we zig-zagged to enjoy both sides and experience the Alabama hospitality. Mobile Bay leads to the Panhandle ICW and traverses through Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, AL; Pensacola FL; and more. These are perhaps some of the best beaches in the world with white silicon sand that squeaks as you walk on it.
At Apalachicola, FL, we staged for our Gulf of Mexico crossing to Tarpon
Springs, and from there we took the Florida ICW. With the Shorebilly’s two-foot draft, we shot into the Everglades and visited Goodland and Everglades City, leaving a smaller open water crossing to the Florida Keys. Since we were days ahead of our reservations in Marathon, we went north to John Pennekamp State Park for reef snorkeling. Then, after we had enjoyed all the Keys have to offer, we returned to the city crowds of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm.
Bumpy ride to a boater’s paradise
Aubrey: At West Palm we shot 70 miles out in the Atlantic to the Bahamas West End. The day called for good conditions, but the weather resources don’t always get it right. About 30 miles out we ended up in seven- to 10-foot seas. It was more than we bargained for, but not unsafe with an eight to nine second period between waves. I had to be very active on the wheel, but the Shorebilly was the real hero of the story. She did great, going 13 mph up the waves, eating through the chop on top, and zooming down at 23 mph.
Terri: The effort was so worth it. We spent three weeks running around the Abacos. The Bahamas are a boater’s paradise with beauty so bold the eye and mind almost can’t process it.
# Big O’s restaurant on No Name Cay, Bahamas, is famous for swimming with the pigs. We fed them instead.
Classic and quaint, Southern living
Terri: Leaving Florida and entering Georgia we transitioned from opulent wealth to classic southern living. The live oaks with the Spanish moss stood in direct contrast to the Florida modern glass-front housing. Moving north, each community proved more and more quaint as we traveled through Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Not wanting the trip to end, we extended it by doing the Albemarle Loop. Towns around the Albermarle Sound offer two-night free dockage. Each town was rich in history and delightful in character. At the other end of the Dismal Swamp Canal, which was gorgeous, lies Norfolk, where we started our journey. When we arrived home, our dock was full of friends cheering us on.
Not done yet!
Advice for someone considering doing the Loop:
Aubrey and Terri: We have, and will, do many trips around the Bay with the Shorebilly. We plan to revisit the East Coast ICW and make another trip (or three!) to the Bahamas. As for large trips, we are discussing the possibility of the “Down East Loop” which circumnavigates Nova Scotia, Prince Edwards Island, Long Island, and more. We are also considering the Inside Passage into Alaska.
Just know that wherever the Shorebilly goes, she will be flying the AGLCA gold flag, for we are very proud of our accomplishment of completing the American Great Loop. Where else in this era at this phase of life can you find a real adventure? #
For anyone interested in reading about the trip in detail, Aubrey and Terri documented their journey at: keeping-you-in-the-loop.blogspot.com/?m=1.
• Take your time to read up on the possibilities and design your trip with flexibility to change plans as needed.
• Join AGLCA, attend a rendezvous, and listen to all the podcasts. It’s a great way to learn about the Loop, route options, reading weather/water conditions, and collaborate with great people: greatloop.org
• In many locations you can take a break and fly home. We rented a car in Chicago and twice in Florida to visit our children.
• There are people everywhere to help you if you need it. We had a gentleman from Quebec City take us in his luxury car to get oil at a hardware store.
• Stuff happens... It’s okay to make a mistake. Everyone does.
# Our stunning view for two days in picturesque Vergennes, VT, located off Lake Champlain.
# The Shorebilly Too is a 37.5-foot, 22-inchdraft Aspen C-108 powercatamaran.
Mark Your Calendars!
53rd Annual Easton Waterfowl Festival:
November 8-10 on Maryland’s Eastern
Shore
For three days every November, multitudes of visitors discover the best of local wildlife, nature, art, heritage, food, and fun at the Waterfowl Festival. While strolling along the lovely streets of Easton, MD, visitors can discover the town and a tradition that has been going strong for generations.
From its founding in 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has been able to not only share the unique Eastern Shore heritage with visitors but also help to preserve it, raising nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships, and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy. Some of this year’s festival highlights include:
Fine Art and Photography Exhibits: Renowned wildlife artists and photographers from across the country will showcase their work in a series of exhibits spread throughout Easton. Visitors can expect to see stunning paintings, sculptures, decoys, and photographs that capture the beauty and majesty of the natural world. The works will be available for purchase, providing a unique opportunity to own a piece of art that reflects a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
For the Dog Lovers: All the outdoor venues are dog friendly, and three exhibits specifically focus on our lovable furry friends. Dog lovers will be thrilled by the retriever demonstrations at the Bay Street Ponds, the incredible competition between professionals and amateurs alike at the DelMarVa Dock Dogs exhibit, and the lightning-fast field trial dog demonstrations at the Chesapeake Bay Pavilion. At each pavilion, visitors can enjoy a variety of beverages and foods to help make their experience tasty and fun.
Quackin’ Trail for the Kids: New this year, parents can pick up a map for their kids at a ticket kiosk. The trail will lead kids to educational activities such as the Phillips Wharf Fishmobile, “Skyhunters in Flight” raptor show, the live Mermaid story times, face painting, and art activities throughout the festival. And don’t miss the kid’s calling contest at the Sportsman’s pavilion. Kids ages 10 and younger are free to enter with the purchase of an adult ticket.
Conservation Corner: The Waterfowl Festival is committed to the conservation of our wild open spaces and will feature presentations and exhibits from leading organizations in the Chesapeake Bay Pavilion.
Eastern Shore Feast: Enjoy a variety of culinary delights throughout downtown. Local restaurants will feature incredible Chesapeake Bay fare, and the food trucks scattered throughout will offer something delicious for everyone. Guests over 21 can enjoy the new Duck Blind and Decoy bars, the famous Bullitt Garden Tasting Pavilion, and the ever-popular Beer Wetlands.
Helpful Tips:
• Tickets are required for every adult and child over the age of 10 and may be purchased online or at the festival. Ticket booths are located at each designated Waterfowl parking lot and will only accept credit/debit cards. Tickets cost $25, admission is good for all three days of the festival, and gives you access to all galleries and pavilions (except tasting pavilion) as well as bus shuttles and parking at auxiliary lots around Easton.
• Free parking is available at Easton Middle School, Easton High School, and Easton Elementary school. All locations have accessible parking and bus stops and are easy to get to downtown.
• The festival is spread throughout the town of Easton. Buses run continuously throughout the festival from 10:30 a.m. through 5 p.m. daily. You can find the bus routes and stops marked on the festival map, in the pocket guide available at any ticket kiosk, and in the Waterfowl Festival app. A festival ticket (or printed proof of online purchase) is required to ride the bus.
For a map of the festival, a schedule of events, and to purchase tickets visit waterfowlfestival.org
# Photos courtesy of the Easton Waterfowl Festival
Preparing Your Powerboat for Winter
By Drew Maglio
Another season has come and gone, and winter will soon be here! It is that unfortunate time of the year when boaters, far and wide— with the exception of those occupying more southerly states—must face the unfortunate reality of the changing season. But how does one begin to winterize one’s vessel, particularly when time is of the essence?
For starters, you must determine if you are inclined to undertake the task of winterization yourself. If not, it is time to get on the “list” of one of the many inundated shops in the area—and to such an end, there is not a moment to waste. Shops this time of year are typically backlogged for weeks, if not months, and are definitively not miracle workers who are able to turn back the clock on the autumnal cycle.
Drain & Antifreeze
But the number one imperative to note when deliberating winterization of one’s vessel: all systems which contain water must be drained before storing one’s boat
away for its winter’s nap. The former is neither up for negotiation nor debate, as water expands upon freezing—and is therefore apt to crack, shatter, or otherwise destroy any equipment or machinery where it is not completely drained. Such an imperative applies to raw water cooled (RWC) engines, generators, air conditioning pumps and units, pressurized freshwater systems, and so on. All these systems (and any others with raw water) must be drained before significant freezing temps are encountered.
The prevailing guideline is as follows: “x degrees for x hours,” is likely to result in catastrophic freeze damage from the physical expansion of water molecules as it freezes. For example, 15 degrees for 15 hours. Any night-time temperature under 15 degrees, ought to induce quick action for non-winterized boat owners!
But winterizing one’s own boat is not actually a complex task; it simply entails draining water (which includes fishing drains with a thin rod to unseat any clogs from sediment accumulation) and back-filling with protective
antifreeze. Owners of outboard-powered boats can rejoice: outboards are typically self-draining, which allows them to be used basically all winter as the weather allows—but while the preceding is generally true, owners will want to check their outboard manufacturer’s (shop or owner’s) manual to be sure.
PWC’s and jet-powered boats by Yamaha and Sea Doo (and other BRP propulsion systems on boats of another OEM) are often, at least partially, closed-cooled—meaning coolant is circulated within the engine on a closedloop, with an internally ‘honey-combed’ heat-exchanger serving as the point of contact between the coolant itself and the sea. On such boats, one will want to follow the manufacturer-recommended procedure to a “T.” In my experience, this process typically entails the running of the engine out of the water—being sure to remove any water remaining in the jet pump and cooling system, which typically takes around a minute. Heat exchangers, usually made of copper, expand better than iron or aluminum, but
# According to the MD DNR, semicustom covers cost the same as shrinkwrapping boats around 30 feet for two seasons and can last five to 10 years.
are still apt to crack under the duress of freezing temperatures; therefore, they must also be drained. Nonetheless, on inboard-powered boats and sterndrives, one will wish to drain all the water and backfill with antifreeze if raw water cooled (i.e. no heat exchanger). Draining of a RWC inboard would include the engine block, cylinder heads, and intake manifold—in addition to the exhaust manifolds, exhaust risers, exhaust muffler, and/or any other accessories like an oil or power steering cooler. All individual drains will likely have to be removed. Upon removal, there are typically two to three gallons of water within the engine at any given time. If there is even a trickle from one of the “single-point” drain systems, it is likely clogged with sediment—and this will need remediation before backfilling with antifreeze. But if winterizing oneself, always know your engine make, model, and serial number so that you may locate all drains—and therefore, remove all water first, before backfilling with antifreeze.
In winterizing, antifreeze serves two primary functions: 1) it helps displace any residual water; and 2) it contains additives which help combat corrosion. This is recommended because it also serves to mix with any stubbornly persisting water. I always leave any drains open while backfilling (through cooling system hoses) with antifreeze, to ensure that all water has been displaced and drained before replacing the drain and filling the entire engine, generator, or other systems.
Annual Maintenance & Repairs
Winterization also affords the best opportunity to complete annual maintenance— i.e. oil and oil filter change(s), fuel filter replacement(s), lower unit oil change, etc. For owners with easily accessible carburetors, i.e. those mounted atop intake manifolds, ‘fogging’ with fogging oil by spraying the oil directly into the throat of the carburetor until the engine begins to stutter is prudent (since it is not much additional work). Additional maintenance tasks to
# If planning to do winterization tasks yourself, be sure to consult your owner’s manual and follow it to the letter.
Winter
and undertake repairs, since most shops tend to be less busy by the middle of December—and such a slow period
often continues until early March. If owners elect to wait until spring for repairs and upgrades, as many do, it is likely they will not have their boat back and completed by the middle of the following summer. But boat expenses tend to compound—hence why many owners decide to seek a holiday reprieve that continues into the New Year. While understandable, serious owners should begin to think about work needed for the upcoming season by the middle of February at the latest. Such a declaration includes planning ahead for routine maintenance like anode replacements, bottom painting, and barrier coating, as well. Remember: preparation for next season begins now. Avoidance now can, and often does, derail the ensuing season.
Either way, do not fret too much beyond preparing one’s boat for its winter’s nap by ensuring all systems containing fresh water are drained—and that one’s vessel is
# If you plan to hire a professional for your winterization needs, don’t wait. Photo courtesy of Bay Shore Marine/Facebook
adequately covered by a good custom cover supported by poles and straps, or the moretraditional shrinkwrap. In my experience, the latter works better for most people, but I have long employed the former to great effect. While it is not ideal to leave old oils or other fluids demanding annual replenishment, I have often done so myself numerous times with no observed detrimental effects.
In short, my advice as a marine mechanic and serial boat-owner is as follows: take care of the basic necessities first, and then prepare for next season’s eventualities. In life as well as in boating, it is often important to enjoy one’s current place. Enjoy the offseason for its elemental repose, which will serve to make the proceeding boating season more fruitful when it arrives. And take heart, for it always does. That is, as long as you take care of your vessel. If you don’t, all bets are off—especially with a creature so fickle as a boat. #
# Sadly, haul-out season is almost here for most boat owners.
Chestertown, MD
By Mike Pitchford, Steve Sharkey, and Brian Leney
Reading a cruising article, or most boating articles for that matter, is designed to put you there. If we, your friendly authors, do it right, you can almost taste the salt air, feel the bad weather, moan about the engine problems, and revel in the ice cream cone you found. In short, you feel the simple joy of being a cruising boater.
Our See the Bay articles are designed not just to inform, but also to tempt you to visit. Have I been there? What did I miss or what will I miss by not going? Our goal is that you are enticed to plan a cruise, jump on your boat, and experience the fruits of a cruising visit as outlined in the article.
So, let’s talk about Chestertown, because this place should be on your list!
History
Like so many Chesapeake Bay port towns, Chestertown goes way back to pre-revolutionary days. It was founded in 1706 and named one of six Maryland “Royal Ports of Entry.” The economic boom that followed this designation made the town and many of its citizens wealthy. In less than 50 years Chestertown was second only to Annapolis in port operations in the colony.
Today the town boasts a population of a little over 5000. The wealth produced in the early to mid-18th century is shown in the plethora of brick mansions and townhouses that dominate the waterfront. Not surprisingly, Chestertown is second only to Annapolis in its number of existing 18th-century homes.
In May 1774, five months after the British closed the port of Boston as a result of the Boston Tea Party, the good citizens of Chestertown adopted provisions that prohibited the buying, selling, or drinking of tea. Popular legend has it that they also dumped tea into the Chester River, following Boston’s example. We couldn’t document this, but they do have a Tea Party Festival every year (usually around Memorial Day weekend).
Chestertown is also a ‘college town.’ Abutting the historic district, a short walk from the waterfront brings you to the campus of Washington College, a private liberal arts college founded in 1782. Washington College is the 10th oldest college in the United States.
Unlike so many “Washington slept here” places, our first president had a very distinct involvement with
Washington College. He fiscally supported the founding of the college, granted the founders the right to use his name, served on their governing board after its founding, and received a Doctor of Laws degree from the College in 1789.
For more history, visit the Bordley History Center at 301 High Street. A walking tour map (self-guided) is available there.
Annapolis
Baltimore
Rock Hall
# Pick up a self-guided walking tour map from the Bordley History Center.
# Make friends with Keke the resident cat at The Bookplate.
Chestertown
Visiting Chestertown
One of the most fun parts of any weekend visit to Chestertown is a stroll through an extensive Farmer’s Market. The town dockmaster reports that this attraction alone helps fill his transient slips every weekend. Several blocks of High Street, just a short walk from the municipal marina, are blocked off every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon to accommodate the market.
Chestertown has a vibrant art community with at least nine art galleries within easy walking distance from the marina. Book a class to make your own art at Art on High or the Kaleidoscope Art Studio or visit the numerous galleries with works by local artists. Galleries include Tish Fine Art Plus, The Skipjack Art Studies, Chestertown River Arts, Hegland Glass, The Artists’ Gallery, MassoniArt Gallery, and The Collection.
You can get yourself lost at The Bookplate, one of the most interesting and eclectic bookstores on the Bay. Here you can wander from aisle to aisle and room to room in this former home that is now packed with books on every subject. Cat lovers can enjoy visiting with Keke, the resident cat, who is friendly and entertaining.
Dining in Chestertown
Play it Again Sam is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch sandwiches. You’ll always find a lot of locals eating there or taking it to go. The Evergrain Bread Company always has a crowd waiting to enjoy freshly baked bread and pastries with a cup of coffee.
Stam’s Luncheonette preserves elements of its 19th-century pharmacy location combined with an old-fashioned ice cream parlor. It is a truly unique setting with a wonderful lunch selection. After lunch enjoy your favorite ice cream or sundae.
The Kitchen at the Imperial provides a comfortable and interesting venue for lunch or dinner for a couple or a group. With a focus on farm-to-table, eating at The Kitchen is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Watershed Alley is one of the newer restaurants in town and highlights the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Its menu, offering a variety of seafood and local farm food, receives good reviews.
At The Retriever, next door to the Watershed Alley, you can sample oysters from various points around the Bay. You can also enjoy a variety of appetizers and a small selection of entrees while sampling the huge selection of scotches, whiskeys, and other adult beverages from around the world.
Bad Alfred’s Brewpub and Distillery makes small-batch craft spirits. You can schedule a tasting tour and get a behindthe-scenes look at the process, or just enjoy a wide variety of spirits and other drinks along with their wood-fired oven menu.
Modern Stone Age Kitchen is an award-winning “foodery” featuring scratch-made, artisan food made with local ingredients. More than just a restaurant serving breakfast and lunch, it’s a bakery, grocery store, and food lab where you can take cooking classes focused on reviving ancestral food practices to make nourishing food.
Looking for an upscale glass of wine or tasting flight along with a refined selection of tapas and small bites? Visit Casa Carmen Winery’s Bodega at 312 Cannon Street, just a short walk from Chestertown Marina. Their tasting room was created in the spirit of the traditional wine bodegas of Spain and South America. The atmosphere is cozy and chic, but with advanced notice they can also handle events for up to 30 people in a private space. Managed locally by Erika and Tyler, this is Casa Carmen’s only location other than a farm in West Grove, PA.
# Casa Carmen Winery.
# For those in search of ice cream, there is Sugar Doodles Sweet Shop and Stam’s Luncheonette (pictured).
Sweets
Those with a sweet tooth should be sure to check out Bespoke Chocolate where you can get an assortment of handmade chocolate and fudges. For those focused more on ice cream (one of the major food groups), there is Sugar Doodles Sweet Shop and Stam’s Luncheonette.
Coming soon
The 98 Cannon Riverfront Grille at the municipal marina suffered a fire in 2021 and closed. Due to preexisting foundation issues (the restaurant is partly over water), the rebuilding was more than the owners could manage and it was put up for sale. It languished on the market for a couple of years but was recently purchased by a developer. Keep an eye on the site as the plans are for a complete demolition of the current structure and the building of a new waterfront restaurant scheduled to open in May, 2026.
Getting There
Chestertown is about 38 nautical miles from Annapolis. This is an easy two-hour trip if you have a speedy vessel (meaning you could get there after work on a Friday afternoon in summer for a two-night weekend). Don’t let the distance deter you. It is well worth it for the scenery, especially along the upper reaches of the river where it narrows.
The Chester River is well-marked all the way to town. There are two six-knot speed limit areas to watch out for, marked by buoys. The first one is at Rolphs Wharf and Marina, a few miles before reaching Chestertown, and the other is in front of the Chester River Yacht and Country Club, about a mile before town. On our trip in September, we saw a few seine nets and many trap floats, but they were all located well out of the main channel.
The Chestertown Marina is a municipal marina located within easy walking distance to most of the attractions and dining in town. The city purchased the marina, rebuilt it, and maintains 15 transient slips to welcome visitors. Make slip reservations on their webpage by clicking on the Reservations tab. Or call (410) 778-3616 to speak with the manager, Paul Coleman. Paul or his assistant, Tom, should be there to greet you and help with docking. Be aware that there may be some river current flowing through the marina. The marina has both floating and fixed docks. #
A Tall Ship in Chestertown!
Chestertown is home to the schooner Sultana. It is the flagship of the Sultana Education Foundation. The mission of the foundation is to “provide transformative educational experiences in which students investigate the natural and human history of the Chesapeake Bay while exploring solutions for a more sustainable ecosystem.” The Sultana is a classroom, an ambassador, and a landmark all in one.
In the late 1990s, local leader, John Swain, advanced the idea of building a reproduction of the (Americanbuilt) Royal Navy schooner HMS Sultana. A not-forprofit group, Sultana Projects, Inc., was formed to fund the construction of the ship. The town rallied to build a temporary shipyard and the keel for the Sultana was laid in October 1998.
Over 3000 students participated in the community and educationally led effort, with a core group of volunteers logging over 150,000 hours of time building the ship. The Sultana was launched in March 2001. Since then, more than 8000 students a year have boarded the Class B tall ship for educational trips consistent with the foundation’s mission. To learn more, visit sultanaeducation.org.
# The Schooner Sultana. Photo by Chris Cerino
Easy Chartering Part III Tips for Making it Through the First Stressful Day
By Zuzana Prochazka
Over the last few months we’ve been running a three-part series on beginning chartering. Part I included tips on managing the decisions and bureaucracy of charter setup, and Part II focused on how to embrace a powercat, which is most likely the type of boat you’ll have on a weeklong charter in another country.
In Part III, we’ll describe the first day of charter which is always chaotic and never easy. It’s a long day of hurry-upand-wait, bored kids, and disorganized crew members eagerly waiting for their vacation to start. For a skipper, it’s usually the hardest day of the entire process. The first day of charter is all about hard work and long hours. Your crew may be ready for rum drinks and sunshine, but you’ll be busy with tech and chart briefings, paperwork, and deciding on a safe anchorage for the first night. It’s best to come armed with a checklist and low expectations. The checklist I can help with; the expectations are up to you.
The Checklist
Check in with the base early on the first day and ask where to stow your luggage where it will be out of the way but also out of the sun. Bring your ID and whatever file you have on the boat already, including your crew list.
Secure contact information for the office and cell phones for key personnel because if things occur after hours, you’ll need help. Keep your crew busy and away from base personnel who are stretched thin on changeover day. You’re the leader of your group so take charge.
Ask your crew to fill in any lastminute provisioning needs even if you took the provisioning option via the charter company. This ensures you’ll have plenty of snacks and your crew will have a focus.
Attend the chart briefing if there is one. More companies now put the
chart briefing online as a video. I’m not a fan. There’s no substitute for local knowledge, so watch the video before you arrive but then bring a list of questions to ask the base personnel. Get a weather forecast and ask about where/how you can find updated weather throughout the week. Ask about connectivity along the cruising grounds. That will tell you whether you can make a call back to the base for assistance or download a new weather forecast.
Attend the tech briefing with your first mate. This will teach you about the boat. Even if there was an online video, a base tech rep will walk you through your particular vessel in detail. They know these boats inside out, so ask questions and listen to what they say and also what they don’t say because that’s a clue to the boat’s particular issues. If they seem wiggly on a battery issue, probe for more details.
# Have patience. It’ll all get easier once you’re out there and you’ll have a terrific week in paradise.
Photo by Zuzana Prochazka
Bring your first mate (but not the whole crew) to both of the briefings above and record them on your phone with both audio and video. You’ll be able to refer back later when you have no idea where the manifolds are to switch the freshwater tanks or how to start the generator, for example.
Check the water and fuel levels even if the base says the boat is full. Learn to operate the genset and the watermaker if there is one. Ask that the dinghy be inflated and that the outboard is tested right in front of you. Find the dinghy pump and outboard kill switch key.
Test the VHF and make sure the chartplotter is in feet and English. Test the galley stove and oven and find the location of the propane tank. Lift it to see if it’s full and find the solenoid switch if there is one.
Lay eyes on safety equipment including fire extinguishers, fire blankets, bailers, buckets, extra line, PFDs, and tools. Take your crew on a walkthrough of the boat’s safety items once all is settled and before you head out.
Don’t take no for an answer. If a system like a bilge pump or generator isn’t working, press the issue until it’s resolved. Good enough isn’t good enough once you’re out there.
Don’t come to the base tired or hungover on the first day, which is long and will be exhausting. When it’s time to leave, don’t be offended if the charter company insists on driving you out of the marina. It’s their boat and once they take the wheel, you have zero liability.
Start the week with a short and manageable first day even if that means overnighting in the marina. Everyone needs to learn the boat and racing to an anchorage as it gets dark on the first evening is tough, so pace yourself.
Patience is key
Have patience with everyone—the base personnel are scrambling, your crew including your kids are probably bored, and you’re stressed with the million details you have to address and memorize. It’ll all get easier once you’re out there, and you’ll have a terrific week in paradise.
This concludes PropTalk’s threepart fall charter series. To catch up on parts one and two, visit proptalk.com/category/chartering
# Start the week with a short and manageable first day.
# Ask your crew to fill in any last-minute provisioning needs.
Explore the Bay with Argo
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s you’ll read in these pages, Chesapeake Bay powerboat club members enjoy many fun cruises, social events, and educational opportunities. Share your club’s excursions and other benefits of membership. Send appproximately 350 words (sometimes longer) and clear photos of pretty boats and happy boaters to beth@proptalk.com. PropTalk’s Club Notes section is powered by Argo navigation and social boating app (argonav.io). Argo’s web app allows its premium subscribers to explore, plan, and document their trips on a desktop and sync effortlessly with any device. The latest app update increases loading speed up to 10 times faster.
SMBC’s Off-Season Community Events
By Jim Berry
Autumn is upon the DelMarVa area, revealing vibrant fall colors, festivals celebrating the harvests of crops, and the many parades throughout the area delighting young and old with their own unique hues of music, sound effects, participants in uniforms, and flamboyant costumes. Fire trucks, marching bands, and civic groups abound. Everyone loves fall as a more pleasant extension of summer.
Southern Maryland Boat Club (SMBC) may be “off the water” for the year, but we are still active in community events as part of our outreach program. Members recently displayed several boats at the St. Mary’s County Family Fest open house event conducted at Piney Point Lighthouse and Museum in Piney Point. It was well attended, and club members enjoyed displaying their race boats and interacting with adults about the club, but they especially enjoyed all the kids that came through. They sat in the drivers’ seats of real race boats, and dozens of smiling faces were digitally captured for memories.
Next came the St. Mary’s County Fair parade. This annual stroll through the fairground complex showcases local entrepreneurs, first responders, civic groups, various clubs such as SMBC, and school bands. Thousands of fair visitors line the parade route to gather in the excitement presented. Our members are always anxious to show off their toys.
Preparations are underway for club participation in the Leonardtown Annual Veteran’s Day Parade on November 11. The parade begins at 10 a.m. Last year 2800 marchers and participants displayed their patriotism and gratitude to the many local heroes that have served, and those that still do, to protect the freedoms we all enjoy. This parade has been called by outside observers as the largest Veteran’s Day parade
in Maryland. Nationally known dignitaries are frequent in this parade. The club is proud to honor all service members, past and present.
2025 will certainly be eagerly anticipated with more boats coming out of the barns to be restored, and others brought to Southern Maryland from other areas of the country to be showcased at our two planned events. Learn more at southernmarylandboatclub.com
# Kids were invited to sit in the driver’s seat at the St. Mary’s County Family Fest.
Photo by Tocky Lawrence
Members of the Chesapeake Bay Cruisers (CBC) of the Marine Trawler Owners Association (MTOA), enjoyed a September Cambridge Cruise, hosted by Aubrey and Jan Vaughan. Fifteen people and eight boats made the event. The weather was great for the entire weekend. Friday evening we had a docktail party in the gazebo next to the boats. Everyone brought their own beverage and an appetizer to share. A lot of sea stories got retold as we enjoyed the company. Dinner was on your own following the happy hour. Saturday cruisers were on their own to discover the town. Several people had breakfast at the Black Water Bakery, about a 15-minute walk from the marina. Three people hired an Uber to visit the Harriet Tubman Museum which was about 20 minutes away by car. Dinner Satur-
Cruising Through Fall
day night was at Blue Ruin. Sue and Chuck Bartlett drove to Cambridge to join us. Sunday was another clear day, but the forecast was for higher winds later in the day, so many headed home early.
MTOA had a booth at TrawlerFest held in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, September 24-28. Booth volunteers shared their enthusiasm for MTOA with prospective new members.
As this issue hits the docks, CBC members will be preparing to travel by boat or car to Gray’s Creek off the Magothy River for a fall barbeque hosted by Marion and Rick Brumback at their waterfront home.
A holiday brunch is planned for December, and looking ahead, in September of 2025, the MTOA
National Rendezvous will be held at Somers Cove Marina, in Crisfield, MD. To learn more about MTOA, visit mtoa.clubexpress.com
September cruise.
Crab Feast and Beer Tasting
By Norm Render
Over the Labor Day holiday Back Creek Yacht Club (BCYC) members took full advantage of the extended weekend by having back-to-back events on Lankford Creek off the Chester River near Rock Hall, MD. The weather was fully cooperative, and on Saturday an armada of 13 member vessels descended on Lankford Bay Marina to attend the two events.
We began with our annual Crab Feast. More than 50 members dined on the large and extra-large crabs that were sourced locally on the Chester River. Side dishes and desserts were brought by the attendees. This event was a huge success, and no one went home hungry.
The following afternoon, members reconvened for a “Beer, Brats, and Burgers” beer tasting event where participants bring a six-pack of their favorite beer. Each six-pack is split three ways, with two beers going in to the “tasting pool,” two other beers going into a cooler for members to enjoy after the tasting, and the final two beers being split between two raffle baskets (which were given away at the end of the evening). There were IPAs, sours, pilsners, stouts, and some low-alcohol offerings as well. After the beer tasting, it was tough to discern a winner with so many great beers from many different styles to choose from. The big winners were the folks who took home the raffle baskets that contained one each of all the beers tasted.
Monday the armada headed down the Chester River with members headed back to their respective home ports. While the boating season is winding down, BCYC has many events left on the calendar for this year. If you’re interested in adding some folks to your list of boating buddies, check us out at backcreekyc.org
Accomplishing Our Goals
Members of America’s Boating Club Wilmington (ABCW) thoroughly enjoyed some of the beautiful boating weather on the Upper Chesapeake Bay in September. As we begin plans for winterizing our boats, we are somewhat envious of several of our members who are planning their November trips south to Florida and the Bahamas for the winter.
We congratulate two of our members who recently completed the Radar Course offered by the ABC Baltimore squadron, and three of our members who are involved in supporting the update of educational courses offered by the national organization, America’s Boating Club.
In the meantime, the ABCW social committee has been hard at work proposing entertaining and educational activities that will highlight the social
events for the fall and winter season.
October features a super social in Wilmington, DE, with guest speaker Glen Gauvry. He is the founder and director of the Ecological Research & Development Group Inc. (ERDG), a nonprofit wildlife conservation organization with a mission focused on the conservation of the world’s four extant horseshoe crab species.
December will feature the everpopular Holiday Social complete with an exchange of white elephant gifts. January and February socials will be held on Zoom and feature speakers from all over the country. We are currently considering a topic on the Mallow’s Bay Ghost Fleet, or possibly the current research on the dolphins appearing in the Upper Chesapeake Bay.
The purpose of ABC is to improve boating skills through education, pro-
mote safe boating practices, and to enjoy being together as like-minded mariners. We are accomplishing all of that! To learn more, visit abc-wilmington.com or contact us at wspsboaters@gmail.com.
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# Bill Barber, ABCW education officer and treasurer, will head south to the Bahamas this fall with wife Joan.
Smith Island Crab Skiffs at the 77th National Hard Crab Derby
Recap and Photos by Paul Denbow
It was a beautiful day in Crisfield for the running of the Smith Island Crab Skiffs at the 77th National Hard Crab Derby. Five teams made the trip to Crisfield ready to race on August 31: Fat Oyster with Peyton Emely, Sea Ya Later with Steve Evans, Slippery Eel with Bart Eckhardt,
Twisted Oyster with Ralph Justice, and Swamp Rat with Tuffy Garrett. In race one, Emely in Fat Oyster led the field to the start and held on to claim the win. This earned him the Lawson Tyler Trophy. Race two saw Eckhardt come from mid-pack to take his maiden win in Slippery Eel and win the Dickie
White Memorial Trophy. After a slow start, Justice in Twisted Oyster turned things around and charged through the field to win the National Crab Skiff Championship. Trophies were presented by past club president and event coordinator Paul Emely and crab skiff technical director Joe Strohmer.
# Ralph Justice in Twisted Oyster putting the move on Tuffy Garret in Swamp Rat
# Bart Eckhardt in Slippery Eel fending off a challenge by Steve Evans in Sea Ya Later
# Peyton Emely in Fat Oyster on his way to win race one.
# Ralph Justice wins back to back National Crab Skiff Championships.
# Race two winner Bart Eckhardt with the Dickie White Memorial Trophy.
# Peyton Emely accepting the Lawson Tyler Trophy for his race one win.
Smith Island Crab Skiffs at Oxford
September 21 not only marked the last day of summer, but also the last Smith Island Crab Skiff race of the 2024 season. Three skiffs made the trip to Oxford: Swamp Rat with Tuffy Garrett, Twisted Oyster with Ralph Justice, and the hometown favorite Slippery Eel with Bart Eckhardt. While it was a small field, the three skiffs provided some great racing. Four three-lap races were on tap for the day. Race one saw Justice in Twisted Oyster come from the third starting position to claim victory. In race two, Garrett in Swamp Rat held on to a narrow lead over Justice, but Justice nipped him at the line to steal the win. Race three saw Justice again come from the third position to claim the win. After a close race with Justice in Twisted Oyster, Eckhardt in Slippery Eel held on to win race four. Thanks to everyone that came out to watch the races and support the Smith Island Crab Skiffs.
Recap and Photos by Paul Denbow
# Ralph Justice in Twisted Oyster getting ready to pass Tuffy Garrett in Swamp Rat to take the win in race two.
# Ralph Justice in Twisted Oyste r moving up on Tuffy Garrett in Swamp Rat
# Passengers on the Oxford-Bellevue ferry watch race four winner Bart Eckhardt in Slippery Eel
# Ralph Justice in Twisted Oyster side by side with Tuffy Garrett in Swamp Rat as they race past the Oxford-Bellevue ferry.
The Dog That Follows You Home: A Passion for Bunker and Ellis Cruisers
Asweet mahogany antique powerboat with downeast lines tied up to the dock at our yacht club recently, and even from a distance I could see her brightwork gleaming in the summer afternoon sunlight. Curiosity prompted me to go down to the dock and have a look, and the closer I approached her, the prettier she became. She was (and is) a completely restored Bunker and Ellis cruiser named Grayling, and her owner, Steve Kloeblen, just happened to be aboard.
I’ll confess that I have an incurable fondness for antique wooden cruisers, but as we began chatting, Steve interjected, “This story really isn’t so much about
By Capt. Michael L. Martel
me, though,” he explained, “but more about Doc Clarke—Malcolm Clarke, but we just call him ‘Doc’—who found her and restored her. Doc has a ‘thing’ for these Bunker and Ellis cruisers. He has saved a couple of them, at least. I bought her from him. You’ll want to talk to him first.”
“Well, I’m a sailor and actually a boat that I had restored in 2011 was my first powerboat,” Doc told me. “But when I was growing up, I always had sailboats and my best buddy through high school was a sailor and had an antique schooner named Surprise. But his father, John Porter, was a real powerboat guy. In 1964 he had a 44-foot Bunker and Ellis built, the
biggest they ever built, with only one engine, which was unusual for a boat that big, but he wanted only one engine for simplicity.”
“Visiting in the summertime in Maine, I had a chance to go out sailing often, and I said to myself back then that ‘if I ever get so old that a sailboat becomes impractical, I think I could get one of these Bunker and Ellis Boats.’ John Porter’s boat was built in 1964. That was at the end of the Bunker and Ellis boat building era. They built, I think, 58 boats over about 30 years, just the two of them, in Southwest Harbor, Maine. Raymond Bunker was the designer, and he and Ralph Ellis built the boats.”
Around 2010 Doc sold his sailboat and found a Bunker and Ellis 42-foot boat, which is named Alaria. “It was in a dump in Ellsworth, ME, but it was still nominally owned. I bought it for almost nothing. I have a nephew, Peter Johanson, who has a boatyard in Rockland, ME, named Johanson Boat Works, and I asked him to truck it to his yard, and we got together restoring it. And oh, $800,000 later, I had a spectacular powerboat.”
“I really still don’t like powerboats,” Doc continues, “But the Bunker and Ellis boats, they’re so pretty. When summering in Maine, whenever I saw one, I kept saying to myself that if I ever had to have a powerboat, that
Making YOUR BOaT New
would be the way to go. And they’re all very well-built boats. They’re all cedar planked over oak frames, and the planking just pretty much never wears out. They built about half yachts and half lobster boats. And the yachts such as Alaria and Grayling are really built to very high specifications and there’s quite a bit of very nice joiner work in them too,” Doc recalls.
“And then, one day, I happened to see a boat in a boatyard in Rockport, ME, right on the corner of Route 90 and Route 1, and I said, ‘boy, that’s an old Bunker and Ellis.’” It was abandoned and covered but ‘kind of ratty,’ Doc relates. Doc asked about it and was told that the owner had moved to Florida, hadn’t paid a storage fee for about five years, and would he like to buy it?
“So, I said, ‘God, what’s the alternative?’ And they said, ‘well, another year or two, we’re going to take a chainsaw to it and put it in a dumpster.’ So, what was I to do? It’s sort of like a dog that follows you home.”
The dog that followed Doc home, once restored, became Grayling, actually her original name, a Bunker and Ellis 35-foot cruiser. “I bought it for basically nothing, but it was perfectly sound.
“The first year when I had her, after I had her restored in 2011, I took her to the Mystic Wooden Boat Show, and she won “Best” in the category of professionally restored powerboats,” Doc recalls.
“I wasn’t using the boats enough, so I decided I would sell Grayling. Steve Kloeblen ended up buying it, and he’s been a very good home for her. She was originally built in 1954.”
Steve Kloeblen, who bought Grayling from Doc, now tells his story: “I’ve had a number of boats over the years, power and sail. We bought Grayling four years ago from Doc, but we were looking for more of a picnic boat, perhaps a boat for doing a little cruising on, and she’s just the right size for that. We just came back from a three-night trip through Buzzards Bay, Marion, Quisset and Hadley’s Harbor, and Cuttyhunk last night and back
this morning, and she’s perfect for that. But we’ve also taken her to Maine three times and one time for I think five weeks. She is perfect to cruise to Maine on for my wife and me. It’s two long days, but we average about 12 knots. So, we’ll do basically 110 miles to 120 miles each day. So, it’ll be Bristol to Gloucester or Bristol to Rockport, first day, and then on to Boothbay or Penobscot Bay in the second hop.”
“In summary, she is a tight, very strong boat. Even after 70 years, we took off the garboard planks and the wood was solid like iron. What they did with those boats, with the keels anyway, they were all cut from a single tree, and they would take the trees out and bury them in the muck in a salt pond and leave them there for years until they thought they needed them. And then the Bunker and Ellis guys soaked them in motor oil and creosote, and probably something to thin it. You can’t put a scratch into it after 70 years.”
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Marine Engine & Generator Sales • Parts • Service
By Capt. Rick Franke
The boat show is over, and it is definitely fall. But there is still a lot of good boating weather and fall fishing out there. Put off the “fall haul” for a while and enjoy some autumn boating. While gearing up for the fall hauling season, area shops are reporting lots of winter plans and a good winter season. Let’s hope they are right!
Andy Dize of Roudebush Yacht and Engine Works in Dundalk, MD, checks in with us. “With the summer boating season ending, in addition to the work we are currently performing, we are looking forward to a few repair and new construction projects showing up at the yard. We recently repaired a 34-foot Pacemaker for engine starting issues and at the same time picked up the client as a new slip holder. We also performed a bottom clean, repair, and paint as well as replaced the tilt-trim assembly on a 26-foot Carolina Skiff.
“We are in talks with a local client to build a new 28-foot aluminum workboat for their commercial diving operations. The boat will be powered with twin 115hp outboards. Additional new construction efforts being looked at include a new class of aluminum workboats for use aboard USCG inland river tenders. For your refurbishment or new construction needs, please reach out to Andy to discuss. We can handle boats up to 44 feet long in our climate-controlled building.”
J.J. Williams of Osprey Marine Restorations in Tracys Landing, MD, reports that a major project in their
shop is nearing completion. A Canadian built Neptunas 47 yacht has had its teak deck removed and replaced by a fiberglass deck with non-skid panels. The project is in its final stages and should be completed within a week. J.J. also reports that the order book is filling rapidly, and he expects a busy winter with repair and refinishing jobs.
Buster Phipps at Phipps Boat Works in Deale, MD, reports the completion of a long-term project to replace the windows and rotted out frames on an Island Gypsy trawler yacht. The boat also had all her varnish work redone.
# A rare Sea Otter 18 being rehabbed and repowered at Roudebush Yacht and Engine Works in Dundalk, MD.
# A Canadian-built Neptunas 47 in for a deck replacement at Osprey Marine Restorations in Tracys Landing, MD. Photos by Rick Franke
As soon as the trawler left the shop, the crew brought in Miss West River, a classic wooden bay built, for some routine annual maintenance. Next up is a wooden downeast style boat with serious rot problems in the cabin top. Phipps is also anticipating a busy winter.
Rob Hardy of Composite Yacht in Trappe, MD, reports that they are busier than ever. “We’ve got a few things going on. We’ve been doing a massive refit on a North Bay 38, a New England boat. It’s practically a full refit. We are still working on Burt Reynolds’s old boat. It’s a high side express pilothouse; I think it’s a Palm Beach 42. We are just wrapping up our all-new 39-footer. We are really excited about that boat. She’s built for outboards. We will have her at the Annapolis Powerboat Show, so we are scrambling, trying to get her done.
“We just finished a new 26 with an upper station. We also have a 42 under construction. This is the Markley 46 hull cut down to 42 feet. We added a bracket and hung three Suzuki 350s on it. We made some modifications to make her look more
modern. Most deadrises have a boxy trunk cabin, but we rounded that off to give it a sleeker look. We sea trialed her the other day and we are really happy about how she’s shaping up; she ran really well.” In response to my question about the need for hull modifications on the 42, Rob replied, “No, deadrise hulls do really well with outboards. The hull flattens out in the rear and makes for a good running bottom.”
Rob continued, “New builds that we have coming up include a contract to build a 46 on our 46 hull. We have a contract for a research vessel for St. Mary’s College that we’re getting ready to start. We also have a contract, based on our 55 hull, for a large yacht tender. That will be a 55-foot walkaround with a pair of jets powered by C-18 Caterpillars. Also, we have the regular paint jobs and repair jobs coming and going. With the fiberglass capability we have, and being a full service outfit, it’s a constant stream of painting, repairs, and upgrades. Needless to say, we will be busy all winter.”
Most of us are familiar with the gyroscopic vessel stabilizers manufactured by Seakeeper and a few other companies. These stabilizers are very effective but are best suited to larger vessels. Recently Seakeeper introduced a new system called Seakeeper Ride that is suitable for smaller vessels and operates on a completely different principle. John Norton from Annapolis Harbor Boat Yard explained how the system works. “Ride is a vessel attitude control system. It is very similar to a trim tab. The actuators or controllers are mounted on the transom, but it operates about a hundred times faster than a trim tab. Inside that actuator is a direct drive electric motor that adjusts the angle so much faster than a human can respond. It is fully automated, so it’s not necessary to do manual inputs on the Ride. There is a sensor that’s mounted inside the boat. It tells the system whether it’s rolling port or starboard or pitching up or down and automatically adjusts to counter that up to a hundred times a second. It is very effective both when up on plane and also at lower speeds.” The Ride system comes in three sizes: the 450 is for boats up
# A Seakeeper Ride vessel attitude control system installed on a Heritage 231 Sportsman at Annapolis Boat Yard.
# The actuator which replaces the trim tab in a Seakeeper Ride vessel attitude control system installed at Annapolis Harbor Boat Yard.
# The heart of a Seakeeper gyroscopic stabilizer. This unit came out of a 38-foot cruiser at Annapolis Harbor Boat Yard in Annapolis, MD.
# Rotted window frames being replaced on an Island Gypsy trawler at Phipps Boat Works in Deale, MD.
# The first boat built in Joe Reid’s Thomas Point line of cruisers at Mast and Mallet in Mayo, MD.
to 26 feet, the 525 for 27 to 30 feet, and the 600 for boats 31 to 35 feet.
Joe Reid of Mast and Mallet in Mayo, MD, shares his latest project “It’s an Ellis downeast boat which was constructed up in Southwest Harbor Maine. It was originally built in 1989 as a launch and at some time during her life got converted into a cabin style
cruising boat. It’s diesel powered and has teak cabin sides, teak coamings, and windshield frames. The traditional hardware is all bronze. Right now it needs repair on the starboard coamings for rot caused by freshwater leakage into it. I’ll be repairing that and replacing the wood; maybe the entire cabin side. I’m not sure about
Complete Yacht Services
that yet until I open it up.” Joe pointed across the parking lot to a green-hulled Chesapeake-style cruiser. “That’s the first boat I built in the Thomas Point line. The prototype was called a Rabbit 38 by Kaufman design. As soon as I bought the design, I changed the name. I’m doing some minor repairs and sprucing it up so the owner can put it on the market.”
A 1989 Ellis built in Southwest Harbor Maine. It was originally an open launch, but was converted to a cabin cruiser. It’s in Mast and Mallet in Edgewater, MD, for some bad wood replacement.
The power plants on the new CY 42 nearing completion at Composite Yacht in Trappe, MD. Courtesy of CY
Hank Reiser of Marine Services LLC at Pocahontas Marina in Edgewater, MD, reports in. “We have a 1966 MFG 15 that we are doing a restoration on and right now the transom is being replaced by a coosa board core. The other boat is a 1946 Hutchinson Sport Utility 26. It’s getting a complete restoration—paint, varnish, hardware, the
whole works. It’s an inboard. It was repowered with a Crusader V-6. Originally it was Chrysler-powered back in the forties.” Hank shared his winter outlook. “It’s looking like a good strong winter. We have a lot of work on the books. Of course we can always use more.”
On that positive note, we’ll wrap up this report. Remember, if you are on the
water in this late season, be extra careful. The water is cooling fast, so hypothermia can become a real issue. Also, there are not as many other boaters out and about if you should need assistance. Be safe and we’ll see you next month.
The busiest machine in a boat yard is the Travelift. A lift gets some TLC before the fall rush from the crew at Holiday Point Marina in Edgewater, MD.
A new transom is being constructed for a 1966 MFG 15 at Marine Services LLC at Pocahontas Marina in Edgewater, MD.
A 1946 Hutchinson Sportsman Utility in for a complete renovation at Marine Services LLC at Pocahontas Marina in Edgewater, MD.
Sounds Problematic
In a new study published by the University of Adelaide in South Australia, researchers have identified a potential new threat to oyster reproduction: human noise pollution.
“Numerous marine larvae (including oysters) rely on natural sounds to navigate and select their dwellings,” explained Dr. Brittany Williams. “Noises from shipping, machinery, and construction are pervasive and pose serious environmental change that affects both terrestrial and marine animals.”
The study shows that acoustic technology can bolster oyster recruitment in habitat restoration projects in low-traffic areas, but that in areas with extensive human noise pollution, recruitment was not enhanced.
“This suggests that noise pollution might cloak the intrinsic sounds of the ocean,” said study co-author Professor Sean Connell, “exerting profound ramifications on marine ecosystem vitality.”
Project at Poplar
NOAA scientists are working at Poplar Island as they research how fish of different species utilize different habitats and wetlands. So far, they’ve implanted nearly 400 fish including white perch, red drum, croaker, gizzard shad, striped bass, spot, and eels with telemetry transmitter tags. With 77 telemetry receivers at Poplar Island, scientists hope to learn what designs fish prefer, so engineers can design future restoration projects to include better habitat. A full analysis of the results is expected by the spring of 2026.
By Lenny Rudow
Poormans Produces
Two new records were set for the state of Maryland in recent months, one of which is a first: a yellowedge grouper. The state has never had a yellowedge grouper record in the past, but then angler Jian Feng Li brought in a 38-pounder caught in Poormans Canyon. The world record yellowedge is 48.6 pounds, and the state judged Li’s fish impressive enough to qualify as the first recorded state record for the species. In a strange quirk of fishing fate, just three days earlier angler London Anthony cranked up a 20.6-pound blueline tilefish—also at the Poormans. That bested the old 20-pound record by over half a pound, earning Anthony his place in the record books.
Studying Smallies
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources is studying marked hatchery smallmouth bass released into the Shenandoah watershed to help determine how stocked fish contribute to fish populations. The priority waters in this five-year study (now in year two) are a 10-mile section of the South River and a 10-mile stretch of the South Fork Shenandoah. Biologists will use genetic markers from fin clips of fish they catch to determine if they were wild reared or brood stock fish and evaluate how much the stockings have contributed to the population.
# Maryland has an all-new record, this one for yellowedge grouper.
Photo by Gary Tyler, MD DNR
Tournamen T n ews
Fish For a Cure! Fish For a Cure!
November is here, Chesapeake anglers, and you all know what that means: it’s time for Fish For a Cure. As usual, Team FishTalk/ PropTalk will compete in this one-ofa-kind event, and we invite everyone to do the same. This year’s tournament will be held on Saturday, November 9, with fishing taking place from 6 a.m. through 4 p.m. It’s a catch and release event with prizes awarded for the longest rockfish stringer of three fish (per team), the longest stringer of five perch, the longest stringer of three invasive species including catfish and/or snakeheads, and the longest “Grand Slam” of three different sportfish.
The fishing is fun, but the real purpose of this tournament is to help cancer patients at the Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s Geaton and JoAnne DeCesaris Cancer Institute. All of the funds raised by tournament participants go to this cause, for which Fish For a Cure has now raised more than $5 million. If you’ve been
reading FishTalk, you’ve probably already picked up on the fact that we’re big supporters of this event, and with good reason—cancer touches just about all of us in one way or another sooner or later, and these patients need our support. We’ve spoken with them, we’ve seen firsthand the impact this angling event has on people who are battling for their lives, and we hope that everyone reading this will put down the magazine right now, go to the computer, visit fishforacure.org, and sign up a new team.
Teams may compete to catch fish, but the real competition is in the Paul C. Dettor Captain’s Challenge where each team raises donations for the cause. Winners in that category not only get bragging rights, but they also get to go fishing knowing they’ve accomplished something critically important for people in a time of need. Added bonus: the Shore Party that follows the tournament at Safe Harbor Marina is not to be missed!
Fishing Hot Spot Kiptopeke State Park in Cape Charles, VA
By Kaylie Jasinski
More species than you can shake a stick at, tons of history, and sometimes, the fish even jump right into the boat—what more could you ask for?!
Two years ago, some of the PropTalk/FishTalk crew headed south to fish the concrete ships at Kiptopeke State Park in Cape Charles, VA, and it was one of the most fun and productive fishing days of the whole year. This year, we decided early on that we had to return.
History Refresher
For those not familiar, the Kiptopeke breakwater is made up of nine concrete ships, partially sunken, and lined up end-to-end just offshore. They are close enough to paddle to; just be sure to stay around the perimeter and do not attempt to go in between any of the vessels. But just how did the ships end up here?
World War II had led to a scarcity in steel, but concrete was cheap. So, in 1942, the U.S. Maritime Commission ordered 24 ships to be built, and the contract was awarded to McCloskey and Co. in Tampa, FL. These ships served throughout World War II and two even saw combat. After the war ended, nine ships were scuttled in 1948 to protect the Little Creek-Cape Charles Ferry terminal. All nine previously served as transport and training vessels in the South Pacific.
When the Chesapeake Bay-Bridge Tunnel was completed in 1964, the ferry terminal was no longer needed at Kiptopeke and eventually closed, but the
breakwater remains. Similar to the allure held by the Ghost Fleet of Mallows Bay, the concrete ships stand guard over the Kiptopeke beach, their rusting hulks partially submerged and overtaken by the sea. Personally, it’s one of the coolest and unique places I’ve ever fished on the Chesapeake Bay.
Where To Stay
Anglers have the option to stay directly at Kiptopeke State Park, which offers two and three-bedroom cabins, six-bedroom lodges, RV and tent camping, yurts, and a bunkhouse. Other facilities/at tractions include a boat ramp, lighted fishing pier, picnic areas, five miles of hiking and biking trails, a playground, a
# My first bull red drum and my PB fish at 42.5 inches!
# Those bull reds put up one heck of a fight.
beach bathhouse, and swimming beach. Seasonal interpretive and educational programs focused on natural history, birding, and Bay ecology are also available.
Our group opted to stay at an Airbnb, and honestly, I can’t recommend this place enough. The Ladybug in Cape Charles is located just minutes from the Kiptopeke boat ramp, so you can’t beat the convenience factor. And apart from being a beautiful house in an idyllic location, it’s the perfect setup for anglers with plenty of space to park a trailer, plug in, and clean your boat, and it even has a fish-cleaning station.
The three bedroom, three-and-a-half bath farmhouse is surrounded by Magothy Bay State Natural Area Preserve with views of the surrounding farmlands. It was quiet and as peaceful as could be. It’s also one of the most well-stocked Airbnb’s I’ve ever stayed at. But of course, our group’s favorite feature was the 80s retro video game arcade. I’m talking Ms. Pac Man, Galaga, Asteroids, Street Fighter 2, and more. When we weren’t too exhausted after a full day of fishing, you know that’s where we were. To find the listing, simply type “the ladybug Airbnb” into your search bar.
Species To Target
Prior to heading out, we had a few target species in mind, namely cobia, sheepshead, and bull red drum. In total, we caught 11 different species over three days, fishing from the concrete ships to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and in the marshy shallows around Kipto
peke. We struck out sight-fishing for cobia, even though we did see a few, and also sheepshead. Around the bridge tunnel we hooked up with Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and flounder, but just as it was two years ago, the majority of the action we saw was right off the ships.
Towards the end of day one I was bouncing my lure on bottom (a five-inch skirted Z-Man paddletail on a jig head), just off the final ship on the left, straight out from the boat ramp, when I felt a different sort of bite. It was subtle at first, and I thought I had snagged a ray (yikes), when Lenny called out “It’s a big giant bull!” and the drag started screaming.
In Virgina, the limit is three redfish per person, per day between 18 and 26 inches in length. Fish over 30 inches are commonly referred to as “bulls.”
My adrenaline immediately kicked into high gear as I fought to safely bring the fish into the boat. The entire time my emotions swayed between ‘that’s the biggest fish I’ve ever seen!’ mega excitement and fear that after all of that, it would come unbuttoned before I could land it. Thankfully the Angler in Chief, Lenny Rudow, is an amazing and patient teacher and talked me through how to adjust to the fish’s frenetic movements, and he also netted the beastly fish. At
# Nine concrete ships form the Kiptopeke breakwater.
# The Ladybug Airbnb in Cape Charles, VA.
# FishTalk reports editor Dillon Waters and Eric Packard with a double hookup on cutlassfish.
42.5 inches, it was my first bull red drum and my PB fish ever! It was also the first bull red of the trip, and even though Zach Ditmars outstaged me later, I’m holding on to that achievement.
Now about Zach’s fish… I can forgive him for breaking my record because it was a pretty crazy story. At the end of day two, after prospecting for hours around the Bridge-Tunnel, we returned to the concrete ships for one last go before sundown. Similar to my hookup, Zach wasn’t sure what he had at first. Our group was knee-deep in a cutlassfish frenzy (more on that later), when he stopped to take a photo of Dillon Waters’s fish with his rod still in the water. When he went to reel in, he initially thought he had snagged bottom. Then he thought the spot-lock had been disengaged and asked Lenny, “Are we moving?”
It was at that moment that Zach’s drag began to scream, and line was peeling off his reel so fast we thought it was going to completely unspool. Lenny disengaged the spot-lock, and we ran down the fish. After another impressive fight, Eric Packard successfully netted the 49-incher—Zach’s PB, and the biggest fish of the trip. But the really crazy part? That big, beautiful fish was caught on a Coach pink spoon using only 20-pound test—undersized to say the least. And just as Eric was netting the fish, the line broke, but thankfully it was already in the boat. Both Zach’s and my bull reds were safely released after a quick photo.
I mentioned earlier that this all started during a cutlassfish frenzy. While the bull reds were some of the biggest and most exciting catches of the trip, the cutlassfish were by far the zaniest. Each evening, right around sunset like clockwork, a feeding frenzy would begin. Swarms of cutlassfish were jumping out of the water chasing bait. And when I say zany, they were not only slamming themselves into the concrete ships, but they were also jumping into our boat one after another. The water all around us was exploding with fish. So,
Lenny being Lenny, he tried to free net them, and what do you know, it worked! By the end of the weekend, our group of six left town with enough fish fillets to feed an army and some great memories to hold us over during the long, cold winter. If planning your own trip to Kiptopeke, be sure to visit FishTalkmag.com for detailed how-tos for targeting specific species, as well as some tasty recipes if you find success (I can personally vouch for Lenny’s Cutlassfish pinwheel recipemhmm). Until next year!
# Zach’s bull red, at 49 inches, was the largest fish of the trip.
# Dillon with a doormat!
Fishing Tackle for Non-Fishermen
By Eric Burnley
Iam aware the not everyone who reads this outstanding magazine is a fisherman. I also understand that almost everyone who reads this magazine owns a boat. Boats travel over water and fish live in water, so most readers probably have the opportunity to fish. Since you have the opportunity, all you need is the fishing tackle.
Now, if you look at a boat that is owned by a fisherman, there will be enough tackle onboard to open a shop. Don’t let that scare you away from getting enough tackle for the occasional fishing adventure. If you only plan to have tackle for the kids to use while you are at anchor or maybe you might want to relax on a Saturday afternoon by catching some perch or spot for dinner, then a nice spinning outfit should fill the bill. I contacted my friend Jerry Gomber at Folsom Tackle, and he recommend their TSCS II 701 M rod with a 3000 or 4000 EVICT reel. These are not top of the line products, but they are not bargain-basement deals either. With proper care, they will outlast your boat. I would recommend filling the reels with 12-pound monofilament line. While braid will last longer and has less stretch, it is more difficult to work with, especially for those who do not fish on a regular basis.
When you go to purchase your fishing tackle, please select a local tackle shop, not a big box store. The guy in the fishing tackle section of the big box store could have been in the clothing aisle of a department store only yesterday.
The local tackle shop will not only sell you the tackle you need, but they will also fill your reels with the line you purchased and make sure you know how to tie the knots you will need.
There are all sorts of snaps and swivels for attaching rigs and lures to your running line or leader. I have been using the Tactical Angler Clip that looks like a paper clip and was invented by my friend, Alberto Knie.
You will also need some terminal gear. Top-bottom rigs made for spot and croaker will come in handy. Rigs made for blue catfish are pretty much standard equipment since these fish have spread all over the Upper Chesapeake Bay. They are an invasive species. All bottom rigs require sinkers. Bank sinkers between one and four ounces should do the job. If you need anything heavier, you shouldn’t be out in that weather.
When bluefish are around, you will need a few metal lures to cast to breaking fish. I like Stingsilvers for this purpose. Trolling for bluefish is best done with Drone spoons. You will need some trolling sinkers between three to five ounces to tie at least 15 feet ahead of the spoon. Spinning reels are not the best for trolling, but they will get the job done. Since your rods and reels will spend quite a bit of time hidden in a closet, they must be treated with care. You will want to store your tackle in a location where
it won’t get damaged. Try using those swim noodles to protect the rods. They don’t cost much, and they do the job with a nice flair. As for the small stuff, any plastic tackle or toolbox will do.
Bait is easy today. Get a couple of packs of Fishbites bloodworms and some Gulp! swimming mullet, and you are all set when you or your guests want to fish.
# A medium priced spinning outfit and a selection of bottom fishing rigs with some Gulp! and Fishbites will set you up for fishing just about anywhere in the Chesapeake Bay. Throw in a couple of bucktails just for good measure.
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2023 Bayliner Trophy T23PH 225 V6
DTS Mercury Outboard Upgrade, Hours - 10, Solid White Hull and Deck, Hardtop with Roof Hatch, Explorer Rails - Black with Fender Holders, Port and Starboard Extended Platforms, ShipsDek Custom Flooring Package, Bow Roller, and more! $89,995 Riverside Marine, 410.686.1500, sales@riversideboats.com , www.riversideboats.com #20604
2004 Star Craft 2410 Mercury 225Hp 4-stroke Outboard; Head; Fresh bottom paint. BEING SOLD AS IS - PRICE - $19,900 Campbell’s Yacht Sales, Contact PJ Campbell, 410.829.5458, pj@campbellsyachtsales.com www.campbellsboatyards.com
2017 Sportsman open 252 CC Twin F150XB Yamaha Outboards, Venture Trailer 7225, White Hull, Black Powder Coat, Hard-Top w/ Rocket Launchers, Spreader Light and Outriggers, Spray Shield, Simrad 12” GPS, Simrad VHF, Compass, Hours570, Trim Tabs/Trim Gauge, Bottom Paint, Lots of Extras! $94,000 Riverside Marine, 410.686.1500, sales@riversideboats.com , www.riversideboats.com #20803
2021 Everglades 253 CC 25’ Brokerage - Yamaha 300, blue hull, power poles, Garmin electronics, trailer - Ready to go! Just reduced $124,000 Call Bill O’Malley 410.703.9058 or www.seattleyachts.com
2022 Bayliner Trophy T24 CC 250 4S Mercury Outboard, Mercury Warranty until 7/16/25, Hours – 30, Power Assist Steering, (new trailer available for $6,746), Graphite Interior, Stainless Steel Upgrade, SkiTow Pylon, Center Console and Helm Seat Cover, Bow Filler Cushion, CC Fishing Seats w/ Livewell, Digital Dash w/ Mercury Vesselview ink - Twin 9” GPS, and more! $69,995 Riverside Marine, 410.686.1500, sales@riversideboats.com, www.riversideboats.com #20671
2006 Wellcraft 252 Coastal F250TUR Yamaha Outboard, 2008 Load Rite Roller Trailer, White Hull and Bottom, Windlass Anchor, VHF Radio, Garmin GPSMap 540S, Hours - 385, Sink, Raw Water Washdown, Bow Railing, Gunwale Molding, Trim Tabs, Volt Gauge, Clock, Engine Sync, Stereo / Speakers, Compass, and more! $34,995 Riverside Marine, 410.686.1500, sales@riversideboats.com , www.riversideboats.com #20826
2023 Bayliner T25 Pilothouse 300 V6 Verrado Mercury Outboard - White, Hours – 12, Option Package includes: Pump Out and Oxygenated Water System on Starboard Fish Locker, Baitwell System, Raw Water Washdown, Rod Storage, Port and Starboard Cockpit Toe Rails, Simrad 9” NSS evo3s GPS w/ Vesselview Link, Fusion Stereo w/ 4 Speakers, Hardtop Roof Hatch, ShipsDek Custom Flooring Package, Bow Thruster, Diesel Heater, Bow Windlass, Shorepower, and more! $119,995 Riverside Marine, 410.686.1500, sales@riversideboats.com , www.riversideboats.com #20605
2017 Century 2600 CC Twin F200XCA Yamaha’s, Hours - 320, Yamaha Extended Warranty until 04/19/2025, Venture Trailer-8725, White Hull, Boat has brand New Upholstery, fresh Bottom Paint, and Full Detail, Hard-Top with Electronics Box, Rocket Launchers, Spreader Light and Outriggers, Windlass, Fusion Stereo, RayMarine DF / FF / GPS, RayMarine VHF, RayMarine Radar, and moreSingle owner! $89,995 Riverside Marine, 410.686.1500, sales@riversideboats.com , www.riversidemarine.com #20645
2020 Crownline 264CR Brokerage - She’s a fast and fun cruiser, loaded w/ features and nearly every option to make boating fun for family and friends. Asking $99,900 Call Dave Townley 410.271.5225 or www.seattleyachts.com
(Mental Rehab) 27’ Rinker ‘05
$39,900 Dan Tisoskey 267.784.7229 dant@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
2022 Nimbus C8 27’ Brokerage - Mercury F300 XL, Bow thruster, Zipwake, windlass, Simrad electronics pkg, heater/defroster, trailer, turnkey. Ready to go - 3 season boat. $164,000 Call Jeff Jordan 410.320.5183 or www.seattleyachts.com
2024 Nimbus T8 27’ New - Hull #311Well-equipped, fast day boat intended for activities and water sports. $218,383 Call Seattle Yachts Annapolis for more info at 410.397.7323 or www.seattleyachts.com
27’ Cherubini ‘13 $195,000 Jack Kelly 609.517.2822 jack@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
28’ Pacemaker Fly Bridge 1972 All fiberglass, twin 350’s, updated in every way! 10.5 beam runs great, sleeps 6, full galley and head. Rigged to fish or weekender. Baltimore, MD. Asking $25,000 Contact: twhisted@gmail.com - More info photos: www.bit.ly/1972Pacemaker28
28’ Regal ‘15 $109,000 Dan Tisoskey 267.784.7229 dant@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
Ranger Tug 27 2012 WOW! Ranger 27 2012 Beautiful Awlgrip hull, complete 1000 service 30 hours ago, trailer, dinghy Electric OB, generator, heat and air. Complete package! $138,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
2023 Nimbus T9 30’ New - Hull #95Single Mercury 450R, Foiled HullGraphite, Thruster, Radar, underwater lights and more. Yacht quality in a modern dayboat design. $280,000 Call Seattle Yachts Annapolis for more info at 410.397.7323 or www.seattleyachts.com
2023 ocean Sport 30 New - Hull #123 of this offshore fishing designed hull. Offshore capable - Twin 350 Mercury outboards. Quality build, fish or cruise! Ready to sea trial! $450,000 Call Seattle Yachts Annapolis 410.397.7323 or www.seattleyachts.com
2024 Nimbus 305 Coupe New - Hull #414 - Embodies smart functionality with attractive design and elegant lines, made for families. $450,000 Call Seattle Yachts Annapolis for more info at 410.397.7323 or www.seattleyachts.com
Brokerage & Classified
2000 Formula 31 PC FULLY LOADED! T/5.7L 310Hp Mercruiser FWC, B3, Kohler gen, AC/HT, Raymarine axiom, Quantum radar, full canvas & isinglass, sleeps 6. Well-maintained w/ $11K recent work. Kept indoors. Price Reduced! $45,000 202.798.0443 or jperez9630@gmail.com
2023 Cutwater C-32 Sedan $349,987Grasonville, MD - Call John Osborne at 410.236.9930 or john@pocket-yacht.com www.pocketyachtco.com
32’ Fratelli Aprea Sorrento ‘22 A luxurious yacht w/ stunning interior. Spectacular Performance! A dry and comfortable ride at 30+ knots. Handcrafted in Italy for over 130 years by the Fratelli family. Stand out from the crowd w/ this very elegant Yacht! Lightly used as a demo boat. Now offered for sale! Contact S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
2020 Sportsman 352 open Triple Yamaha F300XCA outboards, custom painted white, Engine Warranty until 6/6/25, Engine Hours154, 2020 Venture VATB-18025, (2) Garmin GPSMAP 8622 displays, Garmin GMR 424 xHD2 Open Array, Garmin Reactor 40 autopilot, 12v Air Conditioning System, cabin & helm vents, Optimus 360 joystick, w/ SeaStain upgrade, Taco Grandslam 380s. Sold and serviced by Riverside Marine. This is a consignment listing but trades will be considered. $328,000 Riverside Marine, 410.686.1500, sales@riversideboats.com , www.riversideboats.com #20996
Beneteau Swift Trawler 35 ‘18 New listing, Single Owner. Not too big, not too small, go anywhere trawler. Plenty of exterior & interior space to spread out and enjoy your time on the water. Excellent condition. Many desirable factory upgrades. $430,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
36’ Fratelli Aprea Sorrento 2022 Luxurious Yacht w/ Stunning Interior & Spectacular Performance! Enjoy a dry and very comfortable ride at 30+ knots. Handcrafted in Italy for over 130 years by the Fratelli family. Stand out from the crowd w/ this very elegant Yacht! Lightly used as a demo boat. Now offered for sale. $930,000 S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com
2024 Nordic Tug 40’ New - Hull #12 In-Build. Cummins Engine & Genset Specs. Air, Thrusters and more! Available NOW! Call Seattle Yachts Annapolis for more info at 410.397.7323 or www.seattleyachts.com
40’ Bavaria R40 Coupe ‘23 INVENTORY CLEARANCE – SAVE $120,250. Wonderful Great Loop boat! Sun pad lounging on foredeck. Retractable sunroof. Large light-filled salon w/ galley & dining area. 2 large staterooms w/ centerline berths, 2 heads, swim platform… $799,928 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
Read boat reviews online at proptalk.com
(Dilligaf) 35’ Great Harbour TT35 ‘21 $287,900 Jason Hinsch 410.507.1259 jason@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
36’ Bavaria SR36 ‘23 INVENTORY CLEARANCE – SAVE $81,000. Modern family cruiser. Enjoy outdoor living w/ all the amenities including galley & spacious indoor living w/ 2 staterooms, salon, galley prep area, head, A/C, large sunroof, sunpad fwd & aft, much more. $574,792 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
40’ Mainship 400 ‘08 Great condition, efficient single Yanmar 380Hp engine (model 6LY3-UTP). Great Loop-friendly draft: 3’ 8”, bridge clearance: 19’. Include two AC units, bow & stern thrusters, & 9KW Kohler generator. $229,000 Contact S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
2015 Back Cove 41 Express 41’ Brokerage - Beautifully preserved, low hour, downcast classic - yet modern fast cruiser. Cruise to the islands on one tank or scoot at 25+ knots in style. Asking $579,900 Call Dave or Erin Townley 410.271.5225 or www.seattleyachts.com
2023 Nimbus T-11 41’ Brokerage - T11 #186 - Twin 400 Mercs. Joystick, Thruster, Open day boat layout w/ yacht construction quality. 2 Cabins and enclosed head. $399,000 (Over $525K to buy new). Well-equipped! Call Gordon Bennett 410.739.4432 or www.seattleyachts.com
2024 Nimbus C-11
41’ New - Hull #83$700,000 Twin 400 Mercs. Joystick, Thruster, Commuter layout w/ yacht construction quality. 2 Cabins and enclosed head. Call Seattle Yachts Annapolis for more info at 410.397.7323 or www.seattleyachts.com
41’ Bavaria SR41 ‘23 INVENTORY CLEARANCE – SAVE $75,000. Modern family cruiser. Enjoy outdoor living w/ all the amenities & spacious indoor living w/ 2nd galley, salon and 2 large staterooms. A/C, large electric sunroof, sunpad fwd & aft, much more. $674,345 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
41’ Menorquin 120 ’03 Luxurious accommodations. Powerful yacht w/ semi-displacement hull will do 20 knots. Stands out in any harbor. Great for entertaining. Excellent fuel economy. $215,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
2018 Legacy 42 Brokerage - Freshly painted Flag Blue hull, superbly equipped, single 660 Cummins, genset, davits, flybridge and more. Just Reduced - Asking $575,000 Call Bill O’Malley 410.703.9058 or www.seattleyachts.com
42’ ocean Alexander 420 Sport Sedan ‘95 Well-maintained. Luxurious Ed Monk design boasts exceptional performance, construction quality & accommodations. Twin Cat 3208 diesels (1210 hrs), semi-displacement/ planing hull ensures superior performance, great fuel economy & a very comfortable ride. $159,800 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
2022 Pardo Yachts 43 Walkaround, oUR TRADE 43’ Baltimore, MD. Asking $1,199,000 Minimal hours, likenew, turn-key trade-in. Factory and engine/pod warranty remaining. Save over $300,000 off brand-new. To schedule showing or for more information, please contact Ian Dimka: 410.693.7386 or ian@cyc.yachts www.chesapeakeyachtcenter.com
43’ Tiara 4300 Sovran ‘09 High quality workmanship and performance & hard to find. Meticulously maintained w/ all service records are available to a serious buyer. IPS-600 Volvo, Joystick controls make her a joy for shorthanded yachtsman. $395,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
2017 Jeanneau NC14 45’ Baltimore, MD. Asking $449,000 Great condition. Low Hours. Original Owner. Exclusive Freshwater Usage. To schedule showing or for more information, please contact Ian Dimka: 410.693.7386 or ian@cyc.yachts www.chesapeakeyachtcenter.com
(Gotisf) 46’ Grand Banks ‘89 $299,000 Jason Hinsch 410.507.1259 jason@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
2014 Regal 46 Sport Coupe 46’ Pasadena, MD. Asking $374,900 Good Condition. Great couple or small-family cruiser. Joystick Driving. Up-To-Date on Yacht and Engine services. To schedule showing or for more information, please contact Ian Dimka: 410.693.7386 or ian@cyc.yachts www.chesapeakeyachtcenter.com
2018 Prestige Yachts 460 Fly 46’ Edgewater, MD. Asking $799,000 Turnkey single-owner yacht. Remaining factory warranty. Predominately freshwater usage. Upgraded w/ current factory aesthetics options and custom upgrades. To schedule showing or for more information, please contact Ian Dimka: 410.693.7386 or ian@cyc.yachts www.chesapeakeyachtcenter.com
2005 Meridian 490 Pilothouse $299,987 - Grasonville, MD - Call Capt. Lee Cook at 410.703.9911 or leecook@pocket-yacht.com www.pocketyachtco.com
2022 Prestige Yachts 520 Fly 52’ Baltimore, MD. Asking $1,399,000 Volvo DPS installed. Most outfitted, most immaculate 520 on pre-owned market. To schedule showing or for more information, please contact Ian Dimka: 410.693.7386 or ian@cyc.yachts www.chesapeakeyachtcenter.com
Boat Shopping?
53’ Selene 53 ocean Trawler ‘03 430Hp Cummins engine & 52Hp Yanmar “get home” engine. High-quality ocean-going vessel w/ estimated range of 3,851 NM, 1,100 gal of fuel, & 400 gal of water. 3 cabins, 2 heads, salon, galley, pilot house, & flybridge. Equipped w/ 12.5 KW generator, AC, water maker, & more. $700,000 S&J Yachts, 843.872.8080, www.sjyachts.com
Find all of the latest listings at proptalk.com
www.sjyachts.com
2020 Prestige Yachts 590 Fly, oUR TRADE 59’ Baltimore, MD. Asking $1,299,000 Amazing Condition. Outfitted w/ ALL factory options and upgrades. Remaining engine/pod warranty. Custom flybridge enclosure. Available for immediate delivery. To schedule showing or for more information, please contact Ian Dimka: 410.693.7386 or ian@cyc.yachts www.chesapeakeyachtcenter.com
2022 Prestige Yachts 590 Fly 59’ } Annapolis, MD. Asking $1,690,000 Like-New Condition. Single-Owner Yacht. Remaining Prestige and Cummins Warranties. To schedule showing or for more information, please contact Ian Dimka: 410.693.7386 or ian@cyc.yachts www.chesapeakeyachtcenter.com
2016 Prestige Yachts 680 Fly 68’ West Palm Beach, FL. Asking $1,795,000 Great Condition. Nearly $500,000 in refurbishments/upgrades/ maintenance since 2021. Most beautiful 68’ Prestige on the market. To schedule showing or for more information, please contact Ian Dimka: 410.693.7386 or ian@cyc.yachts www.chesapeakeyachtcenter.com
2021 Prestige Yachts 690 Fly 69’ Newport Beach, CA. Asking $3,499,000 Immaculate Yacht. Original Chesapeake Bay boat. EastCoast delivery available. Like-New. To schedule showing or for more information, please contact Ian Dimka: 410.693.7386 or ian@cyc.yachts www.chesapeakeyachtcenter.com
Brokerage/ Classified Order Form
MARKETPLACE & CLASSIFIED SECTIONS
Yacht Sales - Curtis Stokes and Associates, Inc. is hiring new salespeople for our Chesapeake area operation. Candidates must be honest, ethical and have boating experience. This is a commission only position. Contact Curtis Stokes at 410.919.4900 or curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
Seeking P/T Magazine Delivery Drivers for three-day-a-month magazine distribution routes in Maryland. Compensation based upon quantity of stops. Must have a valid driver’s license in good standing, reliable vehicle, and be able to lift up to 25 lbs. For more info, please email info@proptalk.com
ARINE S ERVICES
& ST o RAGE
30’-50’ Deepwater Slips for Sale & Rent Flag Harbor Condo Marina on western shore of Chesapeake in St. Leonard, MD. Slip sales & rentals 410.586.0070/ fhca@flagharbor.com. Storage & Repairs 410.586.1915/ flagboatyard@gmail.com www.flagharbor.com
Sailor’s Wharf Marina on Mill Creek off White Hall Bay, 20-to-45-foot slips with water & 30-amp electric. 1651 Orchard Beach Road, Annapolis, MD 21409. For more information, please call 443.336.3615 or email sailorswharfmarina@gmail.com
SLIPS
S URVEY o RS
Biz Buzz
Mid-Atlantic Dealer
North Point Yacht Sales (NPYS) announces its new role as the official Mid-Atlantic dealer for Sōlace Boats. Known for their groundbreaking designs and unparalleled performance, Sōlace Boats brings a new standard of innovation and luxury to the region. Delivering a unique combination of cutting-edge technology and superior craftsmanship, these boats are designed for boaters who seek both style and high-performance functionality. As a family-owned business, NPYS is dedicated to offering boats that align with its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. “This partnership with Sōlace Boats aligns perfectly with our values,” said Ken Comerford, CEO and president of North Point Yacht Sales. “Sōlace shares our passion for craftsmanship, dedication to building the best boats possible, and commitment to excellence. We are excited to introduce these remarkable vessels to our Chesapeake Bay customers and look forward to growing the brand together with the Sōlace team.” northpointyachtsales.com
Improving Efficiency
AkzoNobel announces that they are partnering with Ocean Craft Marine and Porta Products as part of ‘Project Perfect Storm,’ the first initiative under Ocean Craft’s innovation lab AIME, the Accelerator for Innovation in the Maritime Ecosystem. The partnership involves over a dozen industryleading maritime partners with a shared mission to perfect the efficiency and onboard comfort of the 11.5-meter Offshore Interceptor. The concept is to take an already remarkable vessel and customize every detail even further to maximize the overall efficiency and ensure the most protective platform for the crew. Ocean Craft Marine chose Porta Products to completely reimagine the hull design. Choosing to opt for a premium coating, Porta Products selected AkzoNobel’s Awlgrip and Sea Hawk brands to enhance the new strakeless design of the hull. Jessica Stewart, marketing manager (Americas) from AkzoNobel said, “We are proud to partner with Ocean Craft Marine and Porta Products to use our technology to help drive innovation in the maritime industry. Being part of this project is a testament to the performance of our innovative products and proves that even the smallest adjustments to a vessel’s functionality and design are important and contribute to overall efficiency. We are proud to be part of an initiative aimed at improving vessel performance while maximizing crew protection.” akzonobel.com/en
# Courtesy of Formula Boats
New Model
Coming soon to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the Formula 457 Center Console Fish and Sport models will again push the boundaries of design, engineering, and construction in the offshore center console world, celebrating the finish and amenities of Formula’s renewed entry into the CC market. At 45’7” LOA with a 13’9” beam, and powered by triple Mercury Verado 600-hp engines, the 457 is sure to impress. The 457 CCF is a dedicated and designed fish hunter, shaped and equipped to haul in your catch. Sure-footed, solid, and dependable, it will confidently carry you to offshore fishing grounds or distant ports of call. This model features dual 50-gallon, pressurized live wells aft, which also secure eight dive tanks, port and starboard fish boxes with macerators and available freezer plates, and in-floor storage with Yeti buckets. A secure toe rail makes a solid base for gaffing and hauling in, and with premium Gemlux outriggers, with 22-foot telescoping poles and triple rigging kit, this CCF is built to score you trophies! You will know you’re aboard a Formula when you experience the cabin. Entering through the portside console door, three steps lead down to woodgrain-finish flooring and 6’6” headroom. The cabin is fully appointed for comfortable overnights with a galley, concealed custom-molded sink with cover, stainless pull-out fridge and microwave, abundant storage, and more. A molded private head compartment with a separate stall shower and Vacuflush head make for easy all-day and overnight adventures. The aggressive yet reliable 22 degrees deadrise FAS3 TECH hull anchors the handling of this model, delivering speeds up to 60 mph. To learn more, visit formulaboats.com
Updates and Improvements
Since 1929, Jett’s Marine has been more than just a boating company; it has been a family. As an authorized dealership for Bentley Pontoon by Encore, Bulls Bay, Carolina Skiff, Hurricane, Pioneer, Tidewater, Suzuki, and Yamaha, the company proudly serves Reedville, VA, and the surrounding areas with a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. Some exciting updates: Jack Jett has retired, and Bubba Wilkins has been promoted to vice president of sales and service. With over 41 years of experience at Jett’s Marine, Bubba and the dedicated team continue to provide the exceptional service customers have come to expect. All other employees have stayed on and are thrilled about the new changes within the organization. The facilities have also seen significant improvements, including new hardscaping and a flag display, asphalt paving of sections of the facility with plans for complete paving in the coming years, and the painting of all three storage buildings to match. The company has rebranded its logo and enhanced its social media presence; created a new website; updated its awning with fans, music, and lighting to create a comfortable space for customers; and installed a beautiful fiveby 12-foot entrance light to showcase its new brand and passion for customer service. Business has been very receptive to these recent changes, and Jett’s Marine invites you to stop by and meets its team. jettsmarine.com
Prestigious Ranking
Inc. magazine announced that SailTime Group LLC, parent company to SailTime and PowerTime Fractional Boat Clubs, ranks in the 2024 Inc. 5000 List, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses. In addition to its overall ranking, SailTime Group LLC has achieved impressive standings in specific categories, ranking 11th in the sports industry, 238th in the DMW (District of Maryland-Washington, DC area), and 86th in Maryland. This marks the second time SailTime Group LLC has been featured on the Inc. 5000 list. sailtime.com/annapolis
Team PropTalk Gives Thanks
As summer fully comes to a close and we start transitioning into the fall season, we wanted to take a moment to share what we’re thankful for this year (and encourage you to do the same). We are so lucky to call the Chesapeake Bay home!
“I’m thankful that puppy drum have moved into the Middle Bay in better numbers than ever before! Ooh, and that we got to do our Kiptopeke trip this year in fine fashion, and I got to watch two great fishin’ friends catch their new PBs. Ooh-ooh and that so far this year I’ve only broken one fishing rod.”
~Lenny Rudow
“I’m grateful for my awesome coworkers and their Monday-morning-meeting tales of fixing up boats, buying boats, going on boating adventures, catching big fish, and winning powerboat and sailboat races; our team works hard and plays hard!”
~Molly Winans
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have grown up and still live near the water, especially by the Chesapeake Bay. She has filled my childhood with countless memories—boating, exploring, and swimming in the rivers, creeks, and streams—and so much more. I am grateful to continue enjoying these moments and creating new memories for years to come.”
~Beatrice Roderick
“I’m thankful that I was able to go on a fishing trip with my family and the Angler in Chief this year despite the unpredictable weather forecasts. I am also grateful to be working in an office so close to the water that I can walk by it every day.”
~Royal Snyder
“I am thankful for my family, friends, and amazing coworkers. I’m thankful that I have a job I love in an industry I love. And I’m thankful that I have access to the Chesapeake Bay and the health to enjoy it.”
~Mary Ewenson
“I am thankful for my family and friends and the many and varied opportunities I’ve had to be on the water this year.”
~Elizabeth Crabtree
“I’m thankful for having my own boat and being able to take it on several fishing adventures this year. Also grateful for all my fishy friends who invite me out on their bigger, better boats!”
~Zach Ditmars
“I bought a boat this year! If that’s not something to be thankful for, I don’t know what is! I am also thankful for my husband and my dog who love to go boating with me and for my family, who are always there to lend a helping hand or help show me the ropes.”
~Kaylie Jasinski
“I am thankful for my new home in Annapolis where I get to sail weekly during the summer in the AYC Wednesday Night Racing Series. I’m also thankful for all the SPF office dogs (and the people too).”
~Katie Lange
“I’m thankful for my family’s and my health and to be in the boating business here in Annapolis and the surrounding area.”
~Eric Richardson
“I’m thankful for the joy my husband will have for years to come because his photo made the cover.”
