2016 Houston Boat Show Official Program

OFFICIAL PROGRAM

ROGER CREAGER WELCOMES YOU TO THE LARGEST INDOOR SHOW FOR OUTDOOR SPORTS IN THE SOUTHWEST!

61st Annual Houston January 8—17, 2016 NEW! BOOTH-FINDER PUBLISHED BY

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FOLD-OUT SECTION

TEXAS FISH & GAME

MAGAZINE

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OFFICIAL PROGRAM

2016

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

January 8—17, 2016 We’d like to thank our show sponsors:

GEICO, Fishing Tackle Unlimited, Mattress Firm, Houston Area Chevy Dealers, and GMC Program Published by

Texas Fish & Game Magazine 1745 Greens Road • Houston, TX 77032 (713) 227-3001 • (800) 750-4670 STAFF: Ardia Neves VP Sales Larry Dalton, Advertising Coordinator Anna Campbell, Graphic Designer

Download the Boat Show Program MOBILE EDITION

Roy Neves Publisher

CONTRIBUTORS:

• Interactive Tools • Videos • Links to Exhibitor websites & More

Visit www.FishGame.com 2 |

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HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

Chester Moore, Lenny Rudow, Linda Water Nelson PHOTOGRAPHY: Houston Boat Shows, Chester Moore, Canstock, Bigstock, DPC

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OFFICIAL PROGRAM

2016 HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW TABLE OF

Contents 6 Introduction Seminars & 8 Events

FEATURE ARTICLES

26

2016: Whatever Floats Your Boat

42

Freshwater Fishing

10

Exhibitor Directory

32

In Search of the Perfect Boat

44

Personal Watercraft

15

Buyer’s Guide

36

Trailer Splash

45

Weather Watch: Playing it Safe

NEW Booth Maintenance Information 46 38 A1 ALL Finder Fold Out Matters Technology for Section Boaters Fishing for 40 Big Trout 4 |

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HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

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2016 HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

Show

Just Up and Have a Rockin’ Good Time

T

HE HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL Boat, Sport & Travel Show has been a family tradition since 1956. It gives families a day together, exploring outdoor activities that will enhance everyone’s lifestyle and bring the whole family closer. After 61 years, the annual Houston International Boat, Sport & Travel Show is still the largest Indoor Show on the Gulf Coast with a little something for every member of the family.

Show Up and Rock the Boat If you’re new to boating or even thinking about it, then the Houston Boat Show is the 6 |

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perfect place to learn more. Did you know there are 365 million trillion gallons of water on the earth? Learn about how exploring the open water helps reduce stress from fast-paced everyday life and brings families together while they create lifetime memories. Experienced boaters already know about the benefits of boating and they also know that the Boat Show is the place to go to get greatest deals on new boats and boating gear and to learn about the latest in marine technology and maintenance.

The 2016 Houston Boat Show will feature more than 1,000 powerboats, luxury cruisers, fishing boats and personal watercraft. So whether your passion includes fighting for the big catch out in the Gulf, jumping the waves on

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

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your PWC, cruising around the lake at a serene pace or paddling yourself to wherever you want to go, you can find it all here. Remember, many manufacturers and Boat Dealers are offering special Pre-Season Savings and Boat Show Specials in a rare indoor environment where you can see, touch and compare before you buy.

Rock the RV

This 10-day show features a great selection of campers, travel trailers and accessories for a perfect family getaway.

Owning a camper gives you the freedom to travel and explore any time of the year.

Who wants to stay in a strange hotel when you can travel in the comfort of

SEMINAR

SPEAKER SCHEDULE FRIDAY, JAN 8TH 4:00 PM Topic: Speaker: Sponsor: 6:00 PM Topic:

Speaker: Sponsor: 7:00 PM Topic: Speaker: Sponsor:

Trout Fishing with Artificial Baits Capt. Dean Muckleroy LMC Marine Center

How to Target Reds, Trout and Flounders on Lake Sabine Capt. Mike Cacciotti Reynolds Marine

Winter Time Bass Capt. Will Kirkpatrick LMC Marine & Triton Boats

SATURDAY, JAN 9TH 1:00 PM Topic: Speaker: Sponsor:

Trout Fishing with Artificial Baits Capt. Dean Muckleroy LMC Marine Center

2:00 PM Topic: Speaker: Sponsor:

Kayak Fishing Hobie Pro Staff Austin Canoe & Kayak

4:00 PM Topic:

Speaker: Sponsor: 7:00 PM Topic: Speaker: Sponsor: 8 |

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Fishing Galveston Bay Using Live and Artificial Baits Capt. Steve Coffee Hook Spit Fishing Gear

PreSpawn Bass Capt. Will Kirkpatrick Lowrance Navico 8 -1 7

your own space and at your own pace?

Sleep in—There’s no check out time!.

Toy Land

Already own a boat or RV? The 2016 Houston International Boat, Sport & Travel Show is the perfect place to outfit your ride with a new sound system, GPS system, fishing or wakeboard

BASS TUB SCHEDULE

THURSDAY, JAN 14TH 6:00 PM Topic:

Speaker: Sponsor:

Fishing Galveston Bay Using Live and Artificial Baits Capt. Steve Coffee McClain Trailers

SATURDAY, JAN 16TH 1:00 PM Topic: Speaker: Sponsor:

Catfishing Chad Ferguson Capt. Kirk’s Marine

2:00 PM Topic: Speaker: Sponsor:

Kayak Fishing Hobie Pro Staff Austin Canoe & Kayak

SUNDAY, JAN 17TH 2:00 PM Topic: Speaker: Sponsor:

How To Fish Galveston Jetties and West Bay Capt. Mike Cacciotti Reynolds Marine

FRIDAY, JANUARY 8TH 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm SATURDAY, JANUARY 9TH 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm SUNDAY, JANUARY 10TH 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm MONDAY, JANUARY 11TH 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm, 7:00 pm

NOTE: SCHEDULES FOR ALL EVENTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

TUESDAY, JANUARY 12TH 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm, 7:00 pm WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13TH 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm, 7:00 pm THURSDAY, JANUARY 14TH 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm, 7:00 pm FRIDAY, JANUARY 15TH 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm, 7:00 pm SATURDAY, JANUARY 16TH 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm SUNDAY, JANUARY 17TH 1:00 pm. 3:00 pm 2 0 1 6

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tower. Or you can gear up with hottest new wakeboards, tubes and towing equipment. Whatever outdoor adventure you seek, we have the gear to get you there.

the latest fishing gear, fish finders, powers poles and more. Check out the live fishing demos in the giant 5,000 gallon Bass Tub or learn something new from one of our informative free seminars.

More than a Boat Show

Kids Play

Not only does Houston’s Biggest Boat, Sport & Travel Show have more than 16 acres of boats and campers, there are hundreds of exciting pursuits for the whole family. Maybe a hot tub or sauna is what you prefer? Or maybe a golf cart or ATV for some off-road fun?

Maybe a new mattress or recliner to rest up after these fun excursions? There’s something here for the whole family from jewelry to fashion, paintings to cookware, toys and more.

Let Us Be Your Guide

Head over to our Gear, Guides & Tackle Territory where you can book a hunting/fishing adventure at one of the many lodges and excursions from Texas to Alaska, schedule a day with a local fishing or hunting guide, stock up on

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The 2016 Houston Boat, Sport & Travel Show has fun for the kids, too. From the traditional Fish-o-Rama where kids of all ages can catch live fish right at the show, to the fun of Bubble Runners where kids get to “run” across the water in their own little bubble, your kids are in for a treat.

Croc Encounters

Croc Encounters was established in 2005 as a non-profit sanctuary dedicated to rescuing unwanted reptiles.

Most of the 23 species of crocodiles are threatened or endangered in the wild. Public education is essential to the preservation of these species.

Reptiles are often viewed as being mean or scary. Croc Encounters fights this stigma by giving a close-up look at these

Croc Encounters

amazing animals. Crocodilians provide a window into the earth’s history, being one of the closest living relatives to dinosaurs. They are attentive parents and gentle mates. The importance of these animals is great, the consequences of their destruction are far-reaching, and their preservation is within reach.

Now more than ever, the importance of understanding this fascinating species is critical for its survival. Come, learn and be entertained by Croc Encounters live alligator show at the Houston Boat, Sport & Travel Show.

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2016 HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

Exhibitor Directory A

1Smart Spa

Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock Booth # 881

Booth # 936, 937

Grid: L3

Booth # 315

Grid: I6

Booth # 361

Grid: J5

A Action Realty

Advantage Marine Ins. LLC Alaskan Wilderness Outfitting Company

Grid: H3

C

Cajun Paradise Lodge & Charters Booth # 656

Grid: K4

Grid: P3-R4

Grid: I3

Carefree Boat Club

Booth # 281

Grid: H6

Booth # 838, 847

Grid: L3

Booth # 747

Grid: L4

Booth # 556, 557

Grid: K5

Booth # 209, 210, 211

Grid: H6

Booth # 826

Grid: K3

Lobby Hall D

Grid: Lobby

Anchor Marine Insurance Angel’s Marine

Booth # 815

Atlas Industrial Supply, Inc. Booth # 329

Austin Canoe & Kayak Open Area # 7000

Grid: I3 Grid: K5-K6 Grid: K6-L7

Catch A Trophy Fishing Guide Service on Lake Conroe, Texas

Booth # 915

Grid: I3

Bass Pro/Tracker Marine

Open Area # 10900, 9905 Grid: P1-R3

Baumann Propeller, LLC

Grid: J3-J4

Booth # 918, 919, 921, 922, 923 Grid: J3

Grid: K4

Fishing Tom Guide Service

Booth # 663

Grid: J4

Five Star Scooters

Booth # 769

Grid: I4

Freedom Boat Club

Booth # 738

Grid: L4

Fujimi Luxury Massage Chairs

Booth # 278

Grid: H6

Booth # 103, 104, 105, 106

Grid: H6

CCA Texas

Chandeleur Charters

Charter Lakes Marine Insurance

Booth # 856

Coastline Custom Aluminum Booth # 730, 731, 754, 755

Coastline Marine

Open Area # 12500

Cutco Cutlery

Booth # 678

DeMontrond RV

Grid: K3 Grid: K4

Grid: T3-T4 Grid: H4

D

Grid: F1-G3

Discount Hitch & Truck Accessories

BAAD Marine Supply

Open Area # 718

Booth # 727

Open Area # 4900

B

Grid: I4

Fishing Tackle Unlimited

Coastal Prairie Outdoors

Grid: L6

Booth # 674

Grid: I5

Aqua Gardens

Booth # 249, 250, 251

Grid: K4

Booth # 413

Coastal Cruizers Custom Carts, LLC

Art by L. Mower, LLC

Booth # 631

Fishing Tackle Unlimited – SHOW SPONSOR

Antique & Classic Boat Society

Grid: K5

Grid: K5/K6

Grid: J5

Circle It Organic Concentrated All Purpose Cleaner

Booth # 456

Grid: J5

Booth # 561

Angling Adventures – Capt. Jamie C. Pinter

Aqua Lube

F

Fish Dude’s Guide Service

Open Area # 10500

Booth # 870

AMI Insurance Agency

Booth # 332

Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Grid: G1-H3

Captain Roy’s Captain School

America Outdoor Furniture

Excell Boat Lifts LLC

Far Flung Outdoor Center

Open Area # 4905

Grid: J4

Amber Way Jewelry

Booth # 519

Camping World RV Supercenter

Booth # 624

Alaska’s Bearclaw Lodge

Endeavour Marina

Booth # 831

Grid: K3

Booth # 780, 781

Grid: H4

Booth # 518

Grid: J5

Booth # 216, 217

Grid: I6

Booth # 935

Grid: L3

Funny Bricks

G

Booth # 628

Grid: K4

Booth # 322, 363

Grid: J6

Galati Yacht Sales

Galveston Bay Fishing Team

GEICO – SHOW SPONSOR

Grind Terminal Tackle

Duce Rods

Gulf Coast Complete Marine Service

Open Area # 8000

Grid: L6-M7

Bowden Marine Sales & Service

E-Z Boat Storage & Valet Launch

Breakwater Marine Electronics

Eagle Point Fishing Camp

Booth # 626, 627, 658, 659

Grid: K4

BRP - SEA-DOO® & EVINRUDE® Open Area # 5000

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Grid: H6-I7

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Booth # 680

Grid: H4

Booth # 201

Grid: G6

Booth # 563, 566

Grid: J5

Elton Porter Marine Insurance

GripStic

Booth # 304

Grid: H6

Groves Guide Service Booth # 630

Booth # 212, 213

Open Area # 12000

Gulf Coast Marine

Grid: K4 Grid: I6

Grid: T6-T7

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 Grid: A6-A7

E

Booth # 833, 834, 835, 850, 851, 852 Grid: K3-L3

Impulse Fishing Charters Booth # 757

Grid: K4

Booth # 560

Grid: J5-K5

Booth # 651

Grid: L4

J

Booth # 203

Grid: H6

Booth # 567

Grid: J5

Booth # 341, 342, 343, 344

Grid: M6

Booth # 647, 648

Grid: L4

Grid: H3

Grid: K6

Grid: R1-S3

Grid: G5

Ideal Outdoor Living

Booth # 908

Booth # 230

Open Area # 11900

iCooler - Intelligent Recreational Cooler

JZ Custom Rails, Inc.

Gulf Coast Boating Center Inc.

Boats Etc.

Grid: K4

I

Grid: I4

DROP-OFF Boat & RV Specialty Cleaning Products

Grid: I4

Booth # 629

Booth # 614

Grid: H3

Booth # 714, 715

Hooks Plus

Jordan’s Outdoor Fun

Booth # 880

Grid: K5, H3

Booth # 910, 911, 912, 913, 914, 971, 972, 973, 974, 975 Grid: I3

Grid: J5

Grid: G6

Booth # 427, 904

Grid: I3

Booth # 419

Booth # 100

Biotherapy, Inc.

Booth # 869

Hook Spit Fishing Gear

Johnston & Mayer Oasis Yachts

Grid: K6

Grid: H3

Grid: L3

Grid: R6-S7

Booth # 226, 227, 258, 259

Booth # 804

Booth # 934

Hill Norvell Alaskan Fishing

Open Area # 11000

Grid: G6

Biobor Fuel Additives

Grid: I5-I6

Jarman Marine Yacht Sales

Booth # 101, 102

Bethy Creek RV Resort

Booth # 312

HEVC Box

Grid: K4-L4

Getaway Adventures Lodge

Grid: K5

Grid: K3

Booth # 733, 734, 735

Gene’s Powersports Country – EZ Dock

Grid: K4

Booth # 528, 529

Booth # 933

Harborwalk Community, Yacht Club & Marina

Grid: K1-L3

Booth # 758

Dottie’s

Grid: J5

Open Area # 7905

Grid: K3

Bay Area Sailing School

Booth # 367

HappyFeet USA

iPainFree

Genesis II Art & Photography

Grid: F4-G4

Grid: K3

Grid: I5/J5

Grid: H4

Open Area # 4500, 4700

Booth # 859

Happy Feet

Booth # 568

Galveston Yacht Basin

Booth # 704

Dockside Marine

Grid: I4

Intercoastal Financial Group, LLC

Booth # 827

Bay Area Sailing Association

Booth # 612, 613

Hackberry Rod & Gun

Grid: I4-J5

Gene’s Powersports Country

Dockside Boat Lifts

Grid: L3

Booth # 713

Grid: J5

DMJ Charters

Booth # 848

Hackberry Charters

Booth # 383

G & S Trolling Motors, Inc.

Booth # 366

DLFender/Wipeout Eraser

H & H Tents and Events

Gypsy Guide Service Booth # 771

H & H Rods

Grid: I4

H

Booth # 661, 662

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

K

Kemah Boardwalk Marina Booth # 384

Ken’s Beef Jerky

Booth # 950, 951, 952

Kevin Severance Insurance Booth # 200

Grid: K3-L3

Kevin’s Boat & Motor Repair Booth # 633, 634, 635 Open Area # 12505

Kroll’s Marine

Open Area # 8005

Grid: G6

Grid: K4-L4 Grid: U4

Grid: M6-N7

L

Laguna Custom Rods Booth # 926, 959

Grid: J4

Grid: G5

Lakeshore Sports

Open Area # 4100

Grid: K3 Grid: F5-G6

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INTERNATIONAL 2016 HOUSTON BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW Larry Cohen

Booth # 657

Grid: K4

LaRue’s Guide Service Booth # 664

Grid: J4

LeafGuard by Beldon Booth # 204

Grid: H6

LiftMasters Gulf Coast Booth # 604, 605

LMC Marine Center

Open Area # 1100, 2100

Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905

Grid: H4 Grid: A5-B6 Grid: H1-I3

Low Country Satellite & Audio Booth # 938

Lowrance - Navico Booth # 610, 611

Lynn Sailboats

Open Area # 12507

Mantus Anchors

Grid: L3

Booth # 207, 208 Booth # 716

MarineMax

Grid: H6 Grid: I4

Booth # 300, 385, 708, 777 Grid: G5-G6, H4 Open Area # 3100, 6005 Grid: D5-I6

Master Hitch, Inc.

Booth # 269, 270

Grid: I6

MATTRESS FIRM – SHOW SPONSOR Open Area # 9000

McClain Trailers, Inc. Open Area # 8300

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Mercury Marine

Open Area # 10000

Grid: P6-Q7

Mike Hood’s Marine Propeller Service Booth # 637, 638

Grid: L4

Booth # 618, 619, 666, 667

Grid: J4

Booth # 977

Grid: H3

Millennium Marine, Inc. Miracle Grill Mat Mobile Graphics Booth # 636

Mt. Houston Marine, Inc.

Open Area # 9500, 9505

Grid: L4 Grid: N3-O4

N

National Weather Service

Palmer Power Corporation Booth # 335

Passionately Rivalicious

Grid: I4

Booth # 967

Grid: J3

Grid: N6-O7

Grid: M5-N5

Northshore Marine

Open Area # 6327

Nutty Buddies Too Booth # 677

Grid: K5-M5 Grid: H4

Oil Paintings & Frame Warehouse Booth # 978, 979

Olympic Pools & Spas

Grid: H3

Booth # 279, 306, 308, 309,377 Grid: H5-I6

Outdoor Republic Booth # 222

Grid: J6

RJ Hunting & Fishing Service

Grid: I6

Rocky Mountain Nut Roasters

Booth # 679

Grid: H4

Booth # 346

Grid: L5

Booth # 347

Grid: L5

Booth # 467

Grid: J5

Booth # 428, 429

Grid: K5

PlashLights

Porta-Bote International

Booth # 857

Grid: K3

Booth # 256

Grid: K6

Ron Hoover Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 Grid: A3-B4

Russelure

Booth # 924

Power Home Remodeling Group Premier Boat Dock & Patio

S

Booth # 109

Grid: G6

Booth # 770

Grid: I4

Safe Floor

Pro Powersports of Conroe

Sarge Customs

Open Area # 5000

Grid: T1-U3 Grid: H6-I7

R

Booth # 569

Grid: I5

R.P.I. Marketing

Booth # 327, 358

Grid: K6

Randy McGovern

Red Wing Boat Company, Inc. Reel Men Fishing Charters Booth # 622

Reynolds Marine, Inc. Open Area # 8500

RG Enterprizes Booth # 242

Booth # 829, 830

Grid: K3

Booth # 606

Grid: H4

Booth # 284, 285

Grid: G6

School of Seamanship

R and S Yacht Service

Open Area # 9100, 9105

Grid: J3

Sackett’s Sailing Center

Premier Yamaha Boating Center

Booth # 654, 655

O

Open Area # 11500, 12501 Grid: R3-S4

Grid: L5/L6

Personal Go Fan /Cynex

Open Area # 12900

Booth # 672

Rinker’s Boat World

Booth # 273, 274, 275

Neptune Shallow Water Anchors

M

Marcaccio’s Guide Service

Booth # 231, 232, 233, 252, 253, 254 Grid: K6

Grid: I4 Grid: U4

P

McCombs Properties

Grid: K4

Grid: N5-O6 Grid: J4 Grid: L4-N4 Grid: M6

Shorestation Boat Lifts and Docks Signature Shutters of Houston Booth # 316

SMG Wake Of Houston Open Area # 1900

SOFTUB

Grid: I6

Grid: A1-B3

Booth # 235, 236

Grid: L6

Booth # 345

Grid: L5

Booth # 752

Grid: K4

Booth # 224

Grid: J6

Southern Drift Apparel Spice Exchange Sport Divers

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INTERNATIONAL 2016 HOUSTON BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW Sport Marine

Open Area # 8100

Grid: M5-N6

Texas Fish & Game Magazine Booth # 816

Grid: I3

Booth # 671

Grid: I4

Star Glow Products International

Texas Law Shield

Stillwater Refuge

Texas Marine

Booth # 229, 272, 522, 652

Grid: K6

Booth # 961

Grid: J3

Stone & Sons Marine

Booth # 513, 514, 515, 570, 571, 572 Grid: I5

Stow-A-Way Marina & RV Park Booth # 675

Suncoast Marine Works Open Area # 12005

Surfside Marina

Grid: I4

Grid: T6-U7

Booth # 471, 472

Grid: I5

T

Open Area # 11005

Grid: S6-S7

Team Windows

Texas Mobile Shrink Wrap Booth # 466

Grid: J5

Booth # 621

Grid: J4

Booth # 469, 470

Grid: I5

Texas Outdoors Journal, Inc. Texas Shoreline Properties Texas Sport Boats

Open Area # 2900

Grid: B1-D3

Open Area # 4313 Booth # 607, 608

Grid: G5-I5 Grid: H4

Open Area # 8700

Grid: L3-N3

Open Area # 3005

Grid: E6-F7

Texas Sportfishing Yacht Sales

Texas Yamaha Motorsports

Booth # 381

Grid: H5

The Boat Lift Company

Booth # 558

Grid: K5

The Nautic Group

Telltales Magazine Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905

Texas Beer Bus

Grid: L1-M3

Booth # 324

Grid: J6

Booth # 711

Grid: I4

Booth # 338, 339

Grid: L6

Texas Bluewater Mafia Texas Boat Exchange Texas Boat Sales

Open Area # 12100, 12101 Grid: T5-T6

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Open Area # 7900

Tuff Spas of Texas

Booth # 317, 318, 319

Open Area # 10100, 11100, 12105 Grid: P5-R6

Texas Tigé Marine

Team Mancuso Powersports

Topper’s Camping Center

Booth # 218, 219, 266, 267 Open Area # 3900, 9900 Booth # 980, 981

The Palms Marina

Grid: J6 Grid: D1, N1 Grid: H3

Booth # 681

Grid: H4

Booth # 772

Grid: I4

Booth # 559

Grid: K5

Booth # 726, 759

Grid: K4

Grid: K1-K3 Grid: I6/J6

Wild Alaska Sportfishing Booth # 858

Wild West Motoplex Open Area # 5000

Williams Party Boats, Inc.

Grid: K3 Grid: H6-I7

Booth # 623

Grid: J4

Booth # 836

Grid: L3

Booth # 650

Grid: L4

Wonderful Windows and Siding

U

U. S. Customs and Border Protection

Booth # 927, 928, 929, 930, 931, 954, 955, 956, 957, 958 Grid: K3

Worlds Best Box/Amazing TV Box

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Booth # 810, 811, 812, 873, 874, 875 Grid: I3

Underwater Green Fishing Lights Booth # 710, 775

Veer Group, Inc.

Grid: I4

V Grid: L6

Booth # 947

Grid: L3

Booth # 263

Grid: J6

Booth # 808, 877

Grid: H3

VibaBody Machine Vrienden Umbrellas

Booth # 301

Grid: G6

Booth # 370

Grid: I5

You Name It! Personalized Rings and Other Things

Booth # 238, 239, 246, 247

Venice on the Lake RV Resort

Y

Yacht Service displaying SeaDek Boat Flooring

l

W

The Ranch House on Baffin Bay

Waterloo Rod Company U.S.A.

The Rust Game Place & Meat Market

Wave Pads of Texas

TKO Lures

West Yachts & Brokerage

Booth # 916, 969

Grid: I3

Booth # 276

Grid: H6

Booth # 422, 463

Grid: J5

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

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2016 HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

Buyer’s Guide ATVS & MOTORCYCLES

KAKU STAND UP PADDLEBOARDS Fishing Tackle Unlimited – SHOW SPONSOR

CAN-AM® Wild West Motoplex

Open Area # 718 ...................................... GRID: J3-J4

Open Area # 5000 .....................................GRID: H6-I7

LEGACY KAYAKS Austin Canoe & Kayak

Open Area # 11900 ..................................GRID: R1-S3

LIVE WATERSPORTS STAND UP PADDLEBOARDS Fishing Tackle Unlimited – SHOW SPONSOR

ODES Boats Etc.

Open Area # 7000 ....................................GRID: K6-L7

POLARIS Team Mancuso Powersports

Open Area # 11005 ..................................GRID: S6-S7

YAMAHA Texas Yamaha Motorsports

Open Area # 3005 .................................... GRID: E6-F7

BOAT LIFTS, SLINGS & DOCKS Booth # 226, 227, 258, 259 ........................... GRID: K6 Booth # 332 ............................................. GRID: K5-K6

Gene’s Powersports Country – EZ Dock LiftMasters Gulf Coast

Booth # 604, 605 ...........................................GRID: H4

Premier Boat Dock: Home of Touchless Boat Cover

Booth # 428, 429 ........................................... GRID: K5

Shore Station Boat Lifts

Booth # 285 ...................................................GRID: G6

The Boat Lift Company

Booth # 218, 219, 266, 267 ............................GRID: J6

BOATS - OTHER BOTE STAND UP PADDLEBOARDS Fishing Tackle Unlimited – SHOW SPONSOR Open Area # 718 ...................................... GRID: J3-J4

DIABLO KAYAKS Austin Canoe & Kayak

BENETEAU POWER YACHTS The Nautic Group

MERCURY INFLATABLES Mercury

Open Area # 718 ...................................... GRID: J3-J4

OCEAN KAYAKS Austin Canoe & Kayak

OLD TOWN KAYAKS Austin Canoe & Kayak

Open Area # 7000 ....................................GRID: K6-L7

PERCEPTION KAYAKS Austin Canoe & Kayak

Open Area # 7000 ....................................GRID: K6-L7

Fishing Tackle Unlimited – SHOW SPONSOR

Open Area # 7000 ....................................GRID: K6-L7

HOBIE KAYAKS Austin Canoe & Kayak

Fishing Tackle Unlimited – SHOW SPONSOR

Open Area # 718 ...................................... GRID: J3-J4

JACKSON KAYAKS Fishing Tackle Unlimited – SHOW SPONSOR

Open Area # 718 ...................................... GRID: J3-J4 JAN

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Open Area # 12900 ..................................GRID: T1-U3

BLACKJACK Red Wing Boat Co. Inc.

Open Area # 9100, 9105 ......................... GRID: N5-O6

BLACKWOOD LMC Marine Center

Open Area # 1100, 2100 ......................... GRID: A5-B6

Open Area # 7000 ....................................GRID: K6-L7

BONEFISH Gulf Coast Marine

WILDERNESS SYSTEMS KAYAKS Austin Canoe & Kayak

Fishing Tackle Unlimited – SHOW SPONSOR

Open Area # 718 ...................................... GRID: J3-J4

Open Area # 4313 .....................................GRID: G5-I5

ALUMACRAFT Boats Etc.

Open Area # 11900 ..................................GRID: R1-S3

Kroll’s Marine

Open Area # 8005 ...................................GRID: M6-N7

Open Area # 7000 ....................................GRID: K6-L7

Open Area # 1900 ................................... GRID: A1-B3

BERKSHIRE PONTOONS Premier Yamaha Boating Center

Ron Hoover RV & Marine

ALBEMARLE CAROLINA CLASSIC YACHTS Texas Sportfishing Yacht Sales

Open Area # 12505 ....................................... GRID: U4

BENNINGTON PONTOONS SMG Wake of Houston

Booth # 347 ................................................... GRID: L5

Open Area # 718 ...................................... GRID: J3-J4

FEEL FREE KAYAKS Austin Canoe & Kayak

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1

BLUE WAVE Mt. Houston Marine

BOATS - POWER

DURAS INFLATABLES Kevin’s Boat & Motor Repair

Open Area # 1100, 2100 ......................... GRID: A5-B6

Open Area # 718 ...................................... GRID: J3-J4

PORTA-BOTE FOLDING BOAT Porta-Bote International

Open Area # 7000 ....................................GRID: K6-L7

Fishing Tackle Unlimited – SHOW SPONSOR

Open Area # 8000 ................................... GRID: L6-M7

Open Area # 12507 ....................................... GRID: U4

LIVINGSTON DINGHIES Lynn Sailboats

Open Area # 7000 ....................................GRID: K6-L7

Booth # 733, 734, 735 ..............................GRID: K4-L4

Open Area # 3100, 6005 ..........................GRID: D5, I6

BASS CAT Bowden Marine Sales & Service BAYLINER LMC Marine Center

NATIVE WATERCRAFT KAYAKS Fishing Tackle Unlimited – SHOW SPONSOR

Excell Boat Lifts, LLC

Open Area # 1900 ................................... GRID: A1-B3

AZIMUT YACHTS MarineMax

Open Area # 718 ...................................... GRID: J3-J4

Open Area # 10000 ................................. GRID: P6-Q7

Dockside Boat Lifts

AXIS SMG Wake of Houston

ALWELD Kroll’s Marine

Open Area # 8005 ...................................GRID: M6-N7

AVALON PONTOONS Texas Marine

Open Area # 10100, 11100, 12105 ..........GRID: P5-R6

Open Area # 9500, 9505 ......................... GRID: N3-O4

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 ................. ..............................................................GRID: A6-A7

BOSTON WHALER MarineMax

Open Area # 3100, 6005 ..........................GRID: D5, I6

CAPE HORN Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

CAROLINA CAT Gulf Coast Marine

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 ................. ..............................................................GRID: A6-A7

CAROLINA SKIFF Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

CARVER YACHTS The Nautic Group

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1

CHAPARRAL Texas Marine

Open Area # 10100, 11100, 12105 ..........GRID: P5-R6

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

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Buyer’s Guide CHRIS CRAFT SMG Wake of Houston

GLACIER BAY Gulf Coast Marine

Open Area # 1900 ................................... GRID: A1-B3

COBALT Lakeshore Sports

Open Area # 4100 ....................................GRID: F5-G6

COBIA Gulf Coast Complete Marine Service

Open Area # 12000 .................................. GRID: T6-T7

CONTENDER Gulf Coast Marine

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 ................. ..............................................................GRID: A6-A7

GLASTRON Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

GO-DEVIL Northshore Marine

Open Area # 6327 ...................................GRID: K5-M5

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 ................. ..............................................................GRID: A6-A7

CREST PONTOONS Texas Boat Sales

GODFREY PONTOONS Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

GRADY-WHITE MarineMax

Open Area # 3100, 6005 ..........................GRID: D5, I6

Open Area # 12100, 12101 ...................... GRID: T5-T6

GRAN TURISMO The Nautic Group

Open Area # 1100, 2100 ......................... GRID: A5-B6

GULF COAST Gulf Coast Marine

CRESTLINER LMC Marine Center

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1

CREVALLE BAY BOATS Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

CROWNLINE Texas Boat Sales

Open Area # 12100, 12101 ...................... GRID: T5-T6

CYPRESS CAY PONTOONS LMC Marine Center

Open Area # 1100, 2100 ......................... GRID: A5-B6

DARGEL Mt. Houston Marine

Open Area # 9500, 9505 ......................... GRID: N3-O4

EL PESCADOR LMC Marine Center

Open Area # 1100, 2100 ......................... GRID: A5-B6

EPIC Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

EVERGLADES Gulf Coast Marine Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 ................. ..............................................................GRID: A6-A7

EXCEL Gene’s Powersports Country

Open Area # 11000 ..................................GRID: R6-S7

FAT CAT Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

FLATS CAT Kroll’s Marine

Open Area # 8005 ...................................GRID: M6-N7

FORMULA The Nautic Group

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1

FOUR WINNS Texas Sport Boats

FRONTIER Red Wing Boat Co. Inc.

Open Area # 9100, 9105 ......................... GRID: N5-O6

G3 The Nautic Group

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1

GALEON YACHTS MarineMax

Open Area # 3100, 6005 ..........................GRID: D5, I6

GAMBLER Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

GEKKO TOW BOATS The Nautic Group

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1 J AN

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Red Wing Boat Co. Inc.

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Open Area # 3100, 6005 ..........................GRID: D5, I6

MISTY HARBOR PONTOONS Dockside Marine

Open Area # 4500, 4700 ..........................GRID: F4-G4

MITZI SKIFF Gulf Coast Marine

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 ................. ..............................................................GRID: A6-A7

MONTEREY LMC Marine Center

Open Area # 1100, 2100 ......................... GRID: A5-B6

MOOMBA SKI Rinker’s Boat World

Open Area # 11500, 12501 ......................GRID: R3-S4

MOWDY Suncoast Marine Works

Open Area # 12005 ..................................GRID: T6-U7

NAUTIC STAR Reynolds Marine, Inc.

Open Area # 8500 ....................................GRID: L4-N4

Texas Marine

Open Area # 10100, 11100, 12105 ..........GRID: P5-R6

Open Area # 9100, 9105 ......................... GRID: N5-O6

NAUTIQUE Dockside Marine

Open Area # 3100, 6005 ..........................GRID: D5, I6

NITRO® Bass Pro/Tracker Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

PARKER Red Wing Boat Co. Inc.

Open Area # 8100 ...................................GRID: M5-N6

PATHFINDER Gulf Coast Complete Marine Service

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1

Mt. Houston Marine

Open Area # 2900 ................................... GRID: B1-D3

PHOENIX Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

PREMIER PONTOONS Lakeshore Sports

HARRIS MarineMax

HURRICANE DECK BOATS Ron Hoover RV & Marine JH PERFORMANCE Sport Marine KEY LARGO The Nautic Group

KEY WEST Texas Sport Boats

LAGUNA Ron Hoover RV & Marine LARSON Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

LEGEND Texas Sport Boats

Open Area # 4500, 4700 ..........................GRID: F4-G4

Open Area # 10900, 9905 ........................GRID: P1-R3

Open Area # 9100, 9105 ......................... GRID: N5-O6

Open Area # 12000 .................................. GRID: T6-T7 Open Area # 9500, 9505 ......................... GRID: N3-O4

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

Open Area # 4100 ....................................GRID: F5-G6

Premier Yamaha Boating Center

Open Area # 12900 ..................................GRID: T1-U3

PRO-DRIVE Gene’s Powersports Country

Open Area # 11000 ..................................GRID: R6-S7

Open Area # 2900 ................................... GRID: B1-D3

RANGER Premier Yamaha Boating Center

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

RANGER SALTWATER SERIES Red Wing Boat Co. Inc.

Open Area # 12900 ..................................GRID: T1-U3

REGAL SMG Wake of Houston

LOWE Capt. Kirk’s Marine

MAJEK Premier Yamaha Boating Center Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 2900 ................................... GRID: B1-D3

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Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 ................. ..............................................................GRID: A6-A7

MERIDIAN YACHTS MarineMax

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

MAKO® Bass Pro/Tracker Marine

Open Area # 10900, 9905 ........................GRID: P1-R3

MALIBU SMG Wake of Houston

Open Area # 1900 ................................... GRID: A1-B3

MANITOU PONTOONS The Nautic Group

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1

MASTERCRAFT Dockside Marine

Open Area # 4500, 4700 ..........................GRID: F4-G4

MAVERICK Gulf Coast Complete Marine Service

Open Area # 12000 .................................. GRID: T6-T7

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

Open Area # 12900 ..................................GRID: T1-U3

Open Area # 9100, 9105 ......................... GRID: N5-O6

Open Area # 1900 ................................... GRID: A1-B3

REGENCY® Bass Pro/Tracker Marine

Open Area # 10900, 9905 ........................GRID: P1-R3

ROBALO The Nautic Group

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1

SANGER Texas Boat Sales

Open Area # 12100, 12101 ...................... GRID: T5-T6

SCARAB JET MarineMax

Open Area # 3100, 6005 ..........................GRID: D5, I6

SCARAB OFFSHORE The Nautic Group

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1 2 0 1 6

12/14/15 11:48 AM

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW SCOUT MarineMax Open Area # 3100, 6005...........................GRID: D5, I6

SEA ARK Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 10500...................................GRID: P3-R4

Northshore Marine

Open Area # 6327....................................GRID: K5-M5

SEA BORN LMC Marine Center Open Area # 1100, 2100.......................... GRID: A5-B6

SEA FOX The Nautic Group Open Area # 3900, 9900......................... GRID: D1, N1

SEA HUNT Gulf Coast Marine

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001.................. ...............................................................GRID: A6-A7

Rinker’s Boat World

Open Area # 11500, 12501.......................GRID: R3-S4

SEA PRO Ron Hoover RV & Marine Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500................ GRID: A3-B4

SEA RAY MarineMax

Open Area # 3100, 6005...........................GRID: D5, I6

SHALLOW SPORT Coastline Marine

Open Area # 12500................................... GRID: T3-T4

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SHALLOW STALKER Gulf Coast Marine Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001.................. ...............................................................GRID: A6-A7

SHEARWATER LMC Marine Center

Open Area # 1100, 2100.......................... GRID: A5-B6

SHOALWATER Texas Marine

Open Area # 10100, 11100, 12105...........GRID: P5-R6

SILVER WAVE PONTOONS Ron Hoover RV & Marine

2016

STERLING Capt. Kirk’s Marine Open Area # 10500...................................GRID: P3-R4

STINGRAY The Nautic Group

Open Area # 3900, 9900......................... GRID: D1, N1

SUN TRACKER® Bass Pro/Tracker Marine Open Area # 10900, 9905.........................GRID: P1-R3

SUPRA SKI Rinker’s Boat World

Open Area # 11500, 12501.......................GRID: R3-S4

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500................ GRID: A3-B4

SYLVAN PONTOONS Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 1100, 2100.......................... GRID: A5-B6

TAHOE® Bass Pro/Tracker Marine

Open Area # 8700.....................................GRID: L3-N3

TIBURON Gulf Coast Marine

SKEETER LMC Marine Center

SOUTH BAY PONTOONS Texas Tigé Marine SPORTSMAN Boats Etc.

Open Area # 11900...................................GRID: R1-S3

Premier Yamaha Boating Center

Open Area # 12900...................................GRID: T1-U3

STAMAS YACHTS Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500................ GRID: A3-B4

STARCRAFT Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 10500...................................GRID: P3-R4

Open Area # 10500...................................GRID: P3-R4

Open Area # 10900, 9905.........................GRID: P1-R3

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001.................. ...............................................................GRID: A6-A7

TIDEWATER Texas Sportfishing Yacht Sales

Open Area # 4313......................................GRID: G5-I5

TIGÉ Texas Tigé Marine

Open Area # 8700.....................................GRID: L3-N3

TRACKER® Bass Pro/Tracker Marine

Open Area # 10900, 9905.........................GRID: P1-R3

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Buyer’s Guide TRITON LMC Marine Center Open Area # 1100, 2100 ......................... GRID: A5-B6

TWIN VEE Gulf Coast Marine

CLOTHING

Endeavour Marina

Dottie’s

Gulf Coast Complete Marine Service

Booth # 528, 529 ........................................... GRID: K5

H & H Tents and Events

Booth # 848 ................................................... GRID: L3

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 ................. ..............................................................GRID: A6-A7

Hook Spit Fishing Gear

Open Area # 2900 ................................... GRID: B1-D3

Laguna Custom Rods

VERANDA PONTOONS Texas Sport Boats WELLCRAFT The Nautic Group

Booth # 910, 911, 912, 913, 914, 971, 972, 973, 974, 975 ................................................................... GRID: I3 Booth # 926, 959 ........................................... GRID: K3

Southern Drift Apparel

Open Area # 3900, 9900 ........................ GRID: D1, N1

WORLD CAT Gulf Coast Marine

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 ................. ..............................................................GRID: A6-A7

XCURSION PONTOONS Rinker’s Boat World

Booth # 345 ................................................... GRID: L5

CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS Antique & Classic Boat Society Lobby Hall D............................................. GRID: G8-H9

Bay Area Sailing Association

Booth # 100, 101 ...........................................GRID: G6

Open Area # 11500, 12501 ......................GRID: R3-S4

XPRESS Premier Yamaha Boating Center

Open Area # 12900 ..................................GRID: T1-U3

YAMAHA JET Texas Marine

Open Area # 10100, 11100, 12105 ..........GRID: P5-R6

YELLOWFIN YACHTS Texas Sportfishing Yacht Sales

Carefree Boat Club

Booth # 413 .................................................... GRID: I5

CCA Texas

COM-PAC Lynn Sailboats

Open Area # 12507 ....................................... GRID: U4

Open Area # 12507 ....................................... GRID: U4

BROKERAGE BOATS & RVs Galati Yacht Sales Booth # 322, 363 ............................................GRID: J6

Gulf Coast Boating Center, Inc.

Booth # 212, 213 ............................................ GRID: I6

Jarman Marine Yacht Sales

Booth # 203 ...................................................GRID: H6

Johnston & Mayer Oasis Yachts

Booth # 567 ....................................................GRID: J5

MarineMax

Booth # 300, 385 .....................................GRID: G5-G6

Texas Sportfishing Yacht Sales

Booth # 607, 608 ..........................................GRID: H4

The Nautic Group

Booth # 513, 514, 515, 570, 571, 572 ............ GRID: I5

ENGINES – I/O & INBOARD CRUSADER Palmer Power Corporation Booth # 335 .............................................. GRID: L5-L6

INDMAR Rinker’s Boat World

Open Area # 11500, 12501 ......................GRID: R3-S4

Booth # 980 ...................................................GRID: H3

Palmer Power Corporation

Booth # 671 .................................................... GRID: I4

PLEASURE CRAFT Palmer Power Corporation

Bethy Creek RV Resort

Booth # 880 ...................................................GRID: H3

Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock

WINDRIDER Lynn Sailboats

Booth # 335 .............................................. GRID: L5-L6

Stone & Sons Marine

Mercury

Booth # 624 ....................................................GRID: J4

Open Area # 12507 ....................................... GRID: U4

Booth # 708, 777 ...........................................GRID: H4

Palmer Power Corporation

Booth # 518 ....................................................GRID: J5

NauticShare

Alaskan Wilderness Outfitting Company

CATALINA Lynn Sailboats

Booth # 633, 634, 635 ..............................GRID: K4-L4

MarineMax

Booth # 663 ....................................................GRID: J4

Freedom Boat Club

CRUISES & LODGES

BOATS - SAIL

Booth # 240, 241 ........................................... GRID: L6

Kevin’s Boat & Motor Repair

MERCRUISER Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Texas Law Shield

Open Area # 4313 .....................................GRID: G5-I5

Booth # 519 ....................................................GRID: J5

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4 Open Area # 10000 ................................. GRID: P6-Q7 Booth # 335 .............................................. GRID: L5-L6

Booth # 335 .............................................. GRID: L5-L6

VOLVO PENTA Lakeshore Sports

Open Area # 4100 ....................................GRID: F5-G6

Palmer Power Corporation

Booth # 335 .............................................. GRID: L5-L6

Booth # 881 ...................................................GRID: H3

ENGINES - OUTBOARD

Booth # 631 ................................................... GRID: K4

EVINRUDE BRP - EVINRUDE®

Far Flung Outdoor Center

Getaway Adventures Lodge

Booth # 614 .................................................... GRID: I4

Hackberry Charters

Booth # 612, 613 ............................................ GRID: I4

Hill Norvell Alaskan Fishing

Booth # 869 .................................................... GRID: I3

R.P.I. Marketing

Booth # 327, 358 ........................................... GRID: K6

Sacketts Sailing Center

Open Area # 5000 .....................................GRID: H6-I7

Coastline Marine

Open Area # 12500 .................................. GRID: T3-T4

Gene’s Powersports Country

Open Area # 11000 ..................................GRID: R6-S7

Gulf Coast Marine

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001 ................. ..............................................................GRID: A6-A7

Booth # 109 ...................................................GRID: G6

Kroll’s Marine

Booth # 772 .................................................... GRID: I4

Lakeshore Sports

Booth # 858 ................................................... GRID: K3

Northshore Marine

Booth # 623 ....................................................GRID: J4

Red Wing Boat Co. Inc.

The Ranch House on Baffin Bay Wild Alaska Sportfishing

Williams Party Boats, Inc.

Open Area # 8005 ...................................GRID: M6-N7 Open Area # 4100 ....................................GRID: F5-G6 Open Area # 6327 ...................................GRID: K5-M5 Open Area # 9100, 9105 ......................... GRID: N5-O6

Booth # 980 ...................................................GRID: H3

ELECTRONICS - MARINE

Reynolds Marine, Inc.

Booth # 422, 463 ............................................GRID: J5

Breakwater Marine Electronics

Ron Hoover RV & Marine

West Yachts and Brokerage

BULKHEADS, PIERS & BOAT HOUSES Dockside Boat Lifts Booth # 226, 227, 258, 259 ........................... GRID: K6

Kinsel Docks

Booth # 284 ...................................................GRID: G6

Premier Boat Dock: Home of Touchless Boat Cover

Booth # 428, 429 ........................................... GRID: K5

The Boat Lift Company

Booth # 218, 219, 266, 267 ............................GRID: J6

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BoatShowProgram.indd 18

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Booth # 626, 627, 658, 659 ........................... GRID: K4

Lowrance-Navico

Booth # 610, 611 ............................................ GRID: I4

Millennium Marine, Inc.

Booth # 618, 619, 666, 667 ............................GRID: J4

Underwater Green Fishing Lights

Booth # 710, 775 ............................................ GRID: I4

ENGINE PARTS, ACCESSORIES & REPAIRS Biobor Fuel Additives Booth # 230 ................................................... GRID: K6

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

Open Area # 8500 ....................................GRID: L4-N4 Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

Sport Marine

Open Area # 8100 ...................................GRID: M5-N6

GO-DEVIL Northshore Marine

Open Area # 6327 ...................................GRID: K5-M5

MERCURY Bowden Marine Sales & Service Open Area # 8000 ................................... GRID: L6-M7

Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

Dockside Marine

Open Area # 4500, 4700 ..........................GRID: F4-G4 2 0 1 6

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HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW Gulf Coast Complete Marine Service Open Area # 12000................................... GRID: T6-T7

Lakeshore Sports

Open Area # 4100.....................................GRID: F5-G6

LMC Marine Center

Open Area # 1100, 2100.......................... GRID: A5-B6

MarineMax

Open Area # 3100, 6005...........................GRID: D5, I6

Mercury

Open Area # 10000.................................. GRID: P6-Q7

Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500................ GRID: A3-B4

Texas Boat Sales

Open Area # 12100, 12101....................... GRID: T5-T6

Texas Sport Boats

Open Area # 2900.................................... GRID: B1-D3

RAY ELECTRIC Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 10500...................................GRID: P3-R4

SUZUKI Gulf Coast Marine Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001.................. ...............................................................GRID: A6-A7

LMC Marine Center

Open Area # 1100, 2100.......................... GRID: A5-B6

Northshore Marine

Open Area # 6327....................................GRID: K5-M5

Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500................ GRID: A3-B4

Suncoast Marine Works

Open Area # 12005...................................GRID: T6-U7

BoatShowProgram.indd 19

TOHATSU Kevin’s Boat & Motor Repair

Reynolds Marine, Inc. Open Area # 8500.....................................GRID: L4-N4

Open Area # 12505........................................ GRID: U4

Rinker’s Boat World

Open Area # 12507........................................ GRID: U4

Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Lynn Sailboats

TORQEEDO ELECTRIC Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 10500...................................GRID: P3-R4

YAMAHA Boats Etc.

2016

Open Area # 11500, 12501.......................GRID: R3-S4

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500................ GRID: A3-B4

SMG Wake of Houston

Open Area # 1900.................................... GRID: A1-B3

Sport Marine

Open Area # 8100....................................GRID: M5-N6

Open Area # 11900...................................GRID: R1-S3

Texas Boat Sales

Open Area # 8000.................................... GRID: L6-M7

Texas Marine

Open Area # 12500................................... GRID: T3-T4

Texas Sport Boats

Open Area # 12000................................... GRID: T6-T7

Texas Sportfishing Yacht Sales

Open Area # 1000, 1005, 2000, 2005, 3001.................. ...............................................................GRID: A6-A7

Texas Tigé Marine

Bowden Marine Sales & Service Coastline Marine

Gulf Coast Complete Marine Service Gulf Coast Marine Kroll’s Marine

Open Area # 8005....................................GRID: M6-N7

LMC Marine Center

Open Area # 12100, 12101....................... GRID: T5-T6 Open Area # 10100, 11100, 12105...........GRID: P5-R6 Open Area # 2900.................................... GRID: B1-D3 Open Area # 4313......................................GRID: G5-I5 Open Area # 8700.....................................GRID: L3-N3

FINANCING Intercoastal Financial Group, LLC

Open Area # 1100, 2100.......................... GRID: A5-B6

Booth # 560...............................................GRID: J5-K5

Open Area # 3100, 6005...........................GRID: D5, I6

FISHING & HUNTING GUIDES AND CHARTERS

MarineMax

Mt. Houston Marine

Open Area # 9500, 9505.......................... GRID: N3-O4

Premier Yamaha Boating Center

Open Area # 12900...................................GRID: T1-U3

Red Wing Boat Co. Inc.

Open Area # 9100, 9105.......................... GRID: N5-O6

Alaskan Wilderness Outfitting Company Booth # 624.....................................................GRID: J4

Alaska’s Bearclaw Lodge

Booth # 870..................................................... GRID: I3

12/14/15 11:48 AM

Buyer’s Guide Booth # 826 ................................................... GRID: K3

GIFTS, JEWELRY, & ACCESSORIES

Booth # 881 ...................................................GRID: H3

Amber Way Jewelry

Angling Adventures - Capt. Jamie C. Pinter Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock

Cajun Paradise Lodge & Charters

Booth # 656 ................................................... GRID: K4

Catch A Trophy Fishing Guide Service on Lake Conroe Texas

Booth # 727 ................................................... GRID: K4

Chandeleur Charters

Booth # 769 .................................................... GRID: I4

Coastal Prairie Outdoors

Booth # 856 ................................................... GRID: K3

DMJ Charters

Booth # 758 ................................................... GRID: K4

Eagle Point Fishing Camp

Booth # 281 ...................................................GRID: H6

Aqua Gardens

Endeavour Marina

Booth # 935 ................................................... GRID: L3

E-Z Boat Storage & Valet Launch

Booth # 273, 274, 275 .................................... GRID: I6

Galveston Yacht Basin

Funny Bricks

Passionately Rivalicious

You Name It! Personalized Rings and Other Things

Booth # 831 ................................................... GRID: K3

Coastal Cruizer Custom Carts, LLC

Galveston Bay Fishing Team

Booth # 103, 104, 105, 106 ...........................GRID: H6

Booth # 713 .................................................... GRID: I4

Getaway Adventures Lodge

Booth # 614 .................................................... GRID: I4

HOME FIXTURES & SERVICES

Booth # 630 ................................................... GRID: K4

Booth # 838, 847 ........................................... GRID: L3

Groves Guide Service Gypsy Guide Service

Booth # 771 .................................................... GRID: I4

Hackberry Charters

Booth # 612, 613 ............................................ GRID: I4

Hackberry Rod & Gun

Booth # 859 ................................................... GRID: K3

Hill Norvell Alaskan Fishing

Booth # 869 .................................................... GRID: I3

Impulse Fishing Charters

Booth # 757 ................................................... GRID: K4

LaRue’s Guide Service

Booth # 664 ....................................................GRID: J4

Marcaccio’s Guide Service

Booth # 716 .................................................... GRID: I4

Reel Men Fishing Charters

Booth # 622 ....................................................GRID: J4

RJ Hunting & Fishing Service

Booth # 857 ................................................... GRID: K3

Stillwater Refuge

Booth # 961 ....................................................GRID: J3

Texas Bluewater Mafia

Booth # 711 .................................................... GRID: I4

The Ranch House on Baffin Bay

Booth # 772 .................................................... GRID: I4

Wild Alaska Sportfishing

Booth # 858 ................................................... GRID: K3

Williams Party Boats, Inc.

Booth # 623 ....................................................GRID: J4

America Outdoor Furniture Cutco Cutlery

Booth # 678 ...................................................GRID: H4

Fujimi Luxury Massage Chairs

Booth # 216, 217 ............................................ GRID: I6

Ideal Outdoor Living

Booth # 312 ................................................ GRID: I5-I6

Kemah Boardwalk Marina

Booth # 384 ...................................................GRID: G5

McCombs Properties

Booth # 231, 232, 233, 252, 253, 254 ........... GRID: K6

Stow-A-Way Marina & RV Park

Booth # 675 .................................................... GRID: I4

Surfside Marina

Booth # 471, 472 ............................................ GRID: I5

The Palms Marina

Booth # 681 ...................................................GRID: H4

MARINE PARTS & ACCESSORIES (OTHER THAN ENGINE) Aqua Lube

Booth # 657 ................................................... GRID: K4

BAAD Marine Supply

Booth # 204 ...................................................GRID: H6

Coastline Custom Aluminum

Booth # 938 ................................................... GRID: L3

Discount Hitch & Truck Accessories

Open Area # 9000 ................................... GRID: N6-O7

JZ Custom Rails, Inc.

Booth # 977 ...................................................GRID: H3

Mantus Anchors

Booth # 978, 979 ...........................................GRID: H3

Master Hitch, Inc.

Booth # 279, 306, 308, 309, 377 ...................GRID: H6

Millennium Marine, Inc.

Booth # 222 ....................................................GRID: J6

Mobile Graphics

Booth # 467 ....................................................GRID: J5

Neptune Shallow Water Anchors

Booth # 316 .................................................... GRID: I6

PlashLights

Booth # 381 ...................................................GRID: H5

Safe Floor

Booth # 238, 239, 246, 247 ........................... GRID: L6

Yacht Service displaying SeaDek Boat Flooring

Larry Cohen

LeafGuard by Beldon

Low Country Satellite & Audio

MATTRESS FIRM – SHOW SPONSOR Miracle Grill Mat

Oil Paintings & Frame Warehouse Olympic Pools & Spas Outdoor Republic

Power Home Remodeling Group Signature Shutters of Houston Team Windows by Beldon

KOHLER Palmer Power Corporation

Wonderful Windows and Siding

Booth # 209, 210, 211 ...................................GRID: H6 Booth # 249, 250, 251 ................................... GRID: L6 Booth # 915 .................................................... GRID: I3 Booth # 730, 731, 754, 755 ........................... GRID: K4 Booth # 366 ....................................................GRID: J5 Booth # 647, 648 ........................................... GRID: L4 Booth # 207, 208 ...........................................GRID: H6 Booth # 269, 270 ............................................ GRID: I6 Booth # 618, 619, 666, 667 ............................GRID: J4 Booth # 636 ................................................... GRID: L4 Booth # 967 ....................................................GRID: J3 Booth # 346 ................................................... GRID: L5 Booth # 770 .................................................... GRID: I4 Booth # 301 ...................................................GRID: G6

Booth # 808, 877 ...........................................GRID: H3

Booth # 836 ................................................... GRID: L3

Booth # 335 .............................................. GRID: L5-L6

VOLVO PENTA Palmer Power Corporation

Booth # 335 .............................................. GRID: L5-L6

WESTERBEKE Palmer Power Corporation

YAMAHA Texas Yamaha Motorsports

Kevin’s Boat & Motor Repair

Advantage Marine Insurance, LLC

Gulf Coast Complete Marine Service

Booth # 361 ....................................................GRID: J5

AMI Insurance Agency

Anchor Marine Insurance

Booth # 556, 557 ........................................... GRID: K5

Charter Lakes Marine Insurance

Open Area # 3005 .................................... GRID: E6-F7

MARINE SERVICES

INSURANCE Booth # 747 ................................................... GRID: L4

Booth # 335 .............................................. GRID: L5-L6

BoatShowProgram.indd 20

Booth # 568 ............................................... GRID: I5-J5

Harborwalk Community, Yacht Club & Marina

Booth # 341, 342, 343, 344 .......................... GRID: M6

Vrienden Umbrellas

8 -1 7

Booth # 680 ...................................................GRID: H4

Angel’s Marine

GENERATORS

J AN

Booth # 519 ....................................................GRID: J5

Booth # 833, 834, 835, 850, 851, 852 ......GRID: K3-L3

Jordan’s Outdoor Fun

Veer Group, Inc.

20 |

Booth # 200 ...................................................GRID: G6

MARINAS

GOLF CARTS & UTILITY VEHICLES

Fishing Tom Guide Service

Open Area # 7905 ....................................GRID: K1-L3

Kevin Severance Insurance

Booth # 528, 529 ........................................... GRID: K5

Dottie’s

Booth # 674 .................................................... GRID: I4

Fish Dude’s Guide Service

Booth # 563, 566 ............................................GRID: J5

GEICO – SHOW SPONSOR

Booth # 456 ................................................... GRID: K5

Booth # 370 .................................................... GRID: I5

Booth # 201 ...................................................GRID: G6

Elton Porter Marine Insurance

Booth # 738 ................................................... GRID: L4

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

Booth # 633, 634, 635 ...............................GRID: K4-l4 Booth # 240, 241 ........................................... GRID: L6

LiftMasters Gulf Coast

Booth # 604, 605 ...........................................GRID: H4

Mobile Graphics

Booth # 636 ................................................... GRID: L4

National Weather Service

Booth # 672 .................................................... GRID: I4 2 0 1 6

12/15/15 10:24 AM

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW Booth # 335............................................... GRID: L5-L6

PROPELLERS/PROPELLER SERVICE

Booth # 569..................................................... GRID: I5

Baumann Propeller, LLC

Palmer Power Corporation R and S Yacht Service

Texas Mobile Shrink Wrap

Booth # 466.....................................................GRID: J5

MISCELLANEOUS PRODUCTS & SERVICES Aqua Gardens Booth # 456.................................................... GRID: K5

Biotherapy

2016

PUBLICATIONS Telltales Booth # 558.................................................... GRID: K5

Booth # 827.................................................... GRID: K3

Texas Fish & Game Magazine

Booth # 637, 638............................................ GRID: L4

Texas Outdoors Journal

Mike Hood’s Marine Propeller Service Palmer Power Corporation

Booth # 335............................................... GRID: L5-L6

Booth # 816..................................................... GRID: I3 Booth # 621.....................................................GRID: J4

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES A Action Realty Booth # 315..................................................... GRID: I6

Booth # 427, 904............................................ GRID: K5

CIRCLE IT Organic Concentrated All Purpose Cleaner

Booth # 278....................................................GRID: H6

DLFender/Wipeout Eraser

Booth # 704....................................................GRID: H4

DROP-OFF Boat & RV Specialty Cleaning Products

Booth # 804....................................................GRID: H3

Five Star Scooters

Booth # 780, 781............................................GRID: H4

GripStic

Booth # 304....................................................GRID: H6

H & H Tents and Events

Booth # 848.................................................... GRID: L3

Happy Feet

Booth # 367.....................................................GRID: J5

HappyFeet USA

Booth # 933.................................................... GRID: K3

HEVC Box

Booth # 934.................................................... GRID: L3

iCooler - Intelligent Recreational Cooler

Booth # 383....................................................GRID: G5

iPain Free - Instant Pain Relief Spray

Booth # 651.................................................... GRID: L4

Personal Go Fan/Cynwark

Booth # 679....................................................GRID: H4

RG Enterprizes

Booth # 242................................................... GRID: M6

Star Glow Products International

Booth # 229, 272, 522, 652............................ GRID: K6

VibaBody Machine

Booth # 263.....................................................GRID: J6

Wave Pads of Texas

Booth # 276....................................................GRID: H6

Worlds Best Box/Amazine TV Box

Booth # 650.................................................... GRID: L4

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT KAWASAKI Team Mancuso Powersports Open Area # 11005...................................GRID: S6-S7

SEA-DOO BRP - SEA-DOO®

Open Area # 5000......................................GRID: H6-I7

Gene’s Powersports Country

Open Area # 11000...................................GRID: R6-S7

Pro Powersports of Conroe

Open Area # 5000......................................GRID: H6-I7

Team Mancuso Powersports

Open Area # 11005...................................GRID: S6-S7

Wild West Motoplex

Open Area # 5000......................................GRID: H6-I7

YAMAHA WAVERUNNERS Gene’s Powersports Country

Open Area # 11000...................................GRID: R6-S7

Team Mancuso Powersports

Open Area # 11005...................................GRID: S6-S7

Texas Yamaha Motorsports

Open Area # 3005..................................... GRID: E6-F7 JAN

BoatShowProgram.indd 21

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HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

2 0 1 6

| 21

12/14/15 11:48 AM

Buyer’s Guide Harborwalk Community, Yacht Club & Marina Booth # 312 ................................................ GRID: I5-I6

McCombs Properties

Booth # 231, 232, 233, 252, 253, 254 ........... GRID: K6

Texas Shoreline Properties

Booth # 469, 470 ............................................ GRID: I5

RV ACCESSORIES & SERVICES Aqua Lube Booth # 249, 250, 251 ................................... GRID: L6

Atlas Industrial Supply / Pelican

Booth # 329 ............................................. GRID: K5-K6

Bethy Creek RV Resort

Booth # 880 ...................................................GRID: H3

Discount Hitch & Truck Accessories

Booth # 366 ....................................................GRID: J5

E-Z Boat Storage & Valet Launch

Booth # 680 ...................................................GRID: H4

Eagle Point Fishing Camp

Booth # 201 ...................................................GRID: G6

Master Hitch, Inc.

Booth # 269, 270 ............................................ GRID: I6

Stow-A-Way Marina & RV Park

Booth # 675 .................................................... GRID: I4

Venice on the Lake RV Resort

Booth # 947 ................................................... GRID: L3

RVs - FIFTH WHEELS CROSSROADS CRUISER AIRE Topper’s Camping Center

K-Z DURANGO Terry Vaughn RVs

BIGHORN Lone Star RV

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

CHAPARRAL Lone Star RV

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

CROSSROADS Z-1 Camping World RV Supercenter

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

CRUISER RADIANCE TOURING Topper’s Camping Center

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

CYCLONE Lone Star RV

K-Z SPORTSMEN Terry Vaughn RVs

PRIME TIME CRUSADER Terry Vaughn RVs PRIME TIME SANIBEL Terry Vaughn RVs

WINNEBAGO DESTINATION DeMontrond RV WINNEBAGO VOYAGE DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

RVs - MOTORHOMES FOREST RIVER SUNSEEKER Topper’s Camping Center

RVs - POP UPS FOREST RIVER ROCKWOOD Topper’s Camping Center Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

RVs - TOY HAULERS

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

EVERGREEN TESLA Topper’s Camping Center

Open Area # 4905 ................................... GRID: G1-H3

FOREST RIVER VENGEANCE Topper’s Camping Center

Open Area # 4905 ................................... GRID: G1-H3

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

FOREST RIVER CEDAR CREEK DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

FOREST RIVER HEMISPHERE DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

FOREST RIVER HERITAGE GLEN Topper’s Camping Center

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

FOREST RIVER ROCKWOOD DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

FOREST RIVER SALEM DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

FOREST RIVER SANDPIPER Topper’s Camping Center

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

FOREST RIVER SILVERBACK DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

GULF STREAM CANYON TRAIL Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

HIGHLAND RIDGE OPEN RANGE Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

22 |

J AN

BoatShowProgram.indd 22

8 -1 7

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

Open Area # 5900, 5905 ...........................GRID: H1-I3

DUTCHMEN AEROLITE Camping World RV Supercenter Open Area # 4905 ................................... GRID: G1-H3

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

CRUISER STRYKER Topper’s Camping Center

EVERGREEN BAY HILL Topper’s Camping Center

Open Area # 4905 ................................... GRID: G1-H3

DUTCHMEN COLEMAN Camping World RV Supercenter

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

DUTCHMEN DENALI Camping World RV Supercenter

Open Area # 5900, 5905 ...........................GRID: H1-I3

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

WINNEBAGO MINNIE WINNIE DeMontrond RV

CROSSROADS Z-1 Camping World RV Supercenter

DRV MOBILE SUITE DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905 ...........................GRID: H1-I3

DUTCHMEN ASPEN TRAIL Topper’s Camping Center

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

DRV FULL HOUSE DeMontrond RV

RVs - TRAVEL TRAILERS

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

Open Area # 4905 ................................... GRID: G1-H3

DUTCHMEN DENALI Camping World RV Supercenter

Open Area # 4905 ................................... GRID: G1-H3

ELKRIDGE Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905 ...........................GRID: H1-I3

EVERGREEN I-GO Topper’s Camping Center

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

FLAGSTAFF Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905 ...........................GRID: H1-I3

FOREST RIVER HEMISPHERE DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

FOREST RIVER HERITAGE GLEN Topper’s Camping Center

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

FOREST RIVER ROCKWOOD DeMontrond RV

FOREST RIVER WORK & PLAY Terry Vaughn RVs FOREST RIVER XLR DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

HIGHLAND RIDGE HIGHLANDER Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

K-Z INFERNO Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

K-Z MXT Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

K-Z STONERIDGE Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

K-Z VENOM Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905 ......................... GRID: L1-M3

WINNEBAGO SCORPION DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

WINNEBAGO SPYDER DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

FOREST RIVER SALEM DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

FOREST RIVER SHASTA DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

FOREST RIVER VIBE DeMontrond RV

Open Area # 4900 ....................................GRID: F1-G3

FOREST RIVER WILDWOOD Topper’s Camping Center

Open Area # 7900 ................................... GRID: K1-K3

FREEDOM EXPRESS Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905 ...........................GRID: H1-I3

HEARTLAND MALLARD Camping World RV Supercenter

Open Area # 4905 ................................... GRID: G1-H3

HEARTLAND NORTH PEAK Camping World RV Supercenter

Open Area # 4905 ................................... GRID: G1-H3

JAY EAGLE Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905 ...........................GRID: H1-I3

2 0 1 6

12/14/15 11:48 AM

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW JAY FEATHER Lone Star RV

TORQUE Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

JAY FLIGHT Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

JAY NORTH POINT Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

JAYCO OCTANE Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

JAYCO PINNACLE Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

JAYCO SEISMIC Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

JAYCO WHITE HAWK Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

TRAIL RUNNER Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

VENTURE SONIC Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905.......................... GRID: L1-M3

VENTURE SPORT TREK Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905.......................... GRID: L1-M3

VOLTAGE Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

SAFETY EDUCATION National Weather Service Texas Law Shield

Booth # 671..................................................... GRID: I4

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Open Area # 8900, 8905.......................... GRID: L1-M3

K-Z COYOTE Terry Vaughn RVs

Booth # 927, 928, 929, 930, 931, 954, 955, 956, 957, 958................................................................... GRID: K3

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Open Area # 8900, 8905.......................... GRID: L1-M3

K-Z SPORTSMEN Terry Vaughn RVs

Booth # 810, 811, 812, 873, 874, 875............. GRID: I3

SCHOOLS & INSTRUCTION

Open Area # 8900, 8905.......................... GRID: L1-M3

K-Z SPREE Terry Vaughn RVs

Bay Area Sailing School

K-Z VISION Terry Vaughn RVs

Open Area # 8900, 8905.......................... GRID: L1-M3

LAREDO Lone Star RV

NORTH TRAIL Lone Star RV

E-Z Boat Storage & Valet Launch Booth # 680....................................................GRID: H4

Galveston Yacht Basin

Booth # 568................................................ GRID: I5-J5

Surfside Marina

Booth # 471, 472............................................. GRID: I5

The Palms Marina

Booth # 681....................................................GRID: H4

TACKLE, FISHING & HUNTING ACCESSORIES Aqua Lube Booth # 249, 250, 251.................................... GRID: L6

Atlas Industrial Supply / Pelican

Booth # 329.............................................. GRID: K5-K6

BAAD Marine Supply

Booth # 915..................................................... GRID: I3

Baumann Propeller, LLC

Booth # 827.................................................... GRID: K3

Breakwater Marine Electronics

Booth # 626, 627, 658, 659............................ GRID: K4

Duce Rods

Booth # 981....................................................GRID: H3

Fishing Tackle Unlimited

Booth # 606....................................................GRID: H4

Grind Terminal Tackle

Booth # 224.....................................................GRID: J6

H & H Rods

Nautic Sailing School

School of Seamanship

Texas Boat Exchange

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Booth # 810, 811, 812, 873, 874, 875............. GRID: I3

OAKMONT Lone Star RV

STORAGE FACILITIES

Booth # 561.....................................................GRID: J5

Booth # 338, 339............................................ GRID: L6

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

Booth # 224.....................................................GRID: J6

Cajun Paradise Lodge & Charters

Sport Divers

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

Booth # 654, 655............................................ GRID: K4

Sport Divers

Booth # 102....................................................GRID: G6

Captain Roy’s Captain School

Open Area # 8900, 8905.......................... GRID: L1-M3

Booth # 977....................................................GRID: H3

Randy McGovern

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

Booth # 672..................................................... GRID: I4

K-Z CONNECT Terry Vaughn RVs

Booth # 656.................................................... GRID: K4 Booth # 714, 715............................................. GRID: I4 Booth # 918, 919, 921, 922, 923.....................GRID: J3

Booth # 908....................................................GRID: H3 Booth # 661, 662.............................................GRID: J4

Hook Spit Fishing Gear Booth # 910, 911, 912, 913, 914, 971, 972, 973, 974, 975.................................................................... GRID: I3

SPAS & POOLS

Hooks Plus

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

1Smart Spa

Laguna Custom Rods

Open Area # 8900, 8905.......................... GRID: L1-M3

Olympic Pools & Spas

PRIME TIME AVENGER Terry Vaughn RVs

Booth # 936, 937............................................ GRID: L3

PRIME TIME LACROSSE Terry Vaughn RVs

Booth # 279, 306, 308, 309, 377....................GRID: H6

Softub

Open Area # 8900, 8905.......................... GRID: L1-M3

PRIME TIME TRACER Terry Vaughn RVs RIVERSIDE Lone Star RV

Open Area # 5900, 5905............................GRID: H1-I3

ROCKWOOD MINI LITE Topper’s Camping Center ROCKWOOD ROO Topper’s Camping Center

STARCRAFT AUTUMN RIDGE Camping World RV Supercenter

Booth # 950, 951, 952...............................GRID: K3-L3

Nutty Buddies Too

Rocky Mountain Nut Roasters

Booth # 752.................................................... GRID: K4

The Rust Game Place & Meat Market

Open Area # 4905.................................... GRID: G1-H3

Open Area # 4905.................................... GRID: G1-H3 JAN

SPORTING ART Art by L. Mower, LLC

STARCRAFT LAUNCH Camping World RV Supercenter

8 -1 7

Booth # 618, 619, 666, 667.............................GRID: J4

Neptune Shallow Water Anchors

Booth # 967.....................................................GRID: J3

Sarge Customs

Booth # 559.................................................... GRID: K5

Open Area # 4905.................................... GRID: G1-H3

Booth # 657.................................................... GRID: K4

Millennium Marine, Inc.

Ken’s Beef Jerky

Booth # 256.................................................... GRID: K6

Open Area # 7900.................................... GRID: K1-K3

Booth # 926, 959............................................ GRID: K3

Larry Cohen

SPECIALTY FOODS

Spice Exchange

STARCRAFT AR-ONE Camping World RV Supercenter

Booth # 629.................................................... GRID: K4

Russelure

Booth # 677....................................................GRID: H4

Open Area # 7900.................................... GRID: K1-K3

BoatShowProgram.indd 23

Booth # 235, 236............................................ GRID: L6

Tuff Spas of Texas

Booth # 317, 318, 319................................ GRID: I6-J6

Open Area # 8900, 8905.......................... GRID: L1-M3

2016

Booth # 924.....................................................GRID: J3 Booth # 829, 830............................................ GRID: K3

Texas Bluewater Mafia

Booth # 711..................................................... GRID: I4

Texas Boat Exchange

Booth # 338, 339............................................ GRID: L6

TKO Lures

Booth # 726, 759............................................ GRID: K4

Underwater Green Fishing Lights

Booth # 710, 775............................................. GRID: I4

Waterloo Rod Company U.S.A.

Booth # 916, 969............................................. GRID: I3

Booth # 815..................................................... GRID: I3

TOURISM

Booth # 419.....................................................GRID: J5

Far Flung Outdoor Center

Genesis II Art & Photography

Oil Paintings & Frame Warehouse

Booth # 631.................................................... GRID: K4

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

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| 23

12/14/15 11:48 AM

Buyer’s Guide R.P.I. Marketing

Open Area # 11000 ..................................GRID: R6-S7

Booth # 327, 358 ........................................... GRID: K6

Sport Divers

Booth # 224 ....................................................GRID: J6

Texas Beer Bus

Booth # 324 ....................................................GRID: J6

EZ LOADER Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

Dockside Marine

Open Area # 4500, 4700 ..........................GRID: F4-G4

Gene’s Powersports Country

Open Area # 11000 ..................................GRID: R6-S7

TRAILERS

Lakeshore Sports

AMERATRAIL Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Texas Marine

Open Area # 4100 ....................................GRID: F5-G6

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

Mt. Houston Marine

Open Area # 9500, 9505 ......................... GRID: N3-O4

AMERITRAIL Texas Sportfishing Yacht Sales

Open Area # 10100, 11100, 12105 ..........GRID: P5-R6

Texas Tigé Marine

Open Area # 8700 ....................................GRID: L3-N3

Open Area # 4313 .....................................GRID: G5-I5

HAUL RITE Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 8000 ................................... GRID: L6-M7

KARAVAN Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 12900 ..................................GRID: T1-U3

MAGIC TILT Boats Etc.

Open Area # 12100, 12101 ...................... GRID: T5-T6

Lynn Sailboats

BASS CAT Bowden Marine Sales & Service

BEAR Premier Yamaha Boating Center Texas Boat Sales

BOATMATE Texas Tigé Marine

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

Open Area # 11900 ..................................GRID: R1-S3 Open Area # 12507 ....................................... GRID: U4

Premier Yamaha Boating Center

Open Area # 8700 ....................................GRID: L3-N3

COASTLINE Premier Yamaha Boating Center

Open Area # 12900 ..................................GRID: T1-U3

Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

Suncoast Marine Works

Open Area # 12005 ..................................GRID: T6-U7

CONTINENTAL McClain Trailers, Inc.

Open Area # 12900 ..................................GRID: T1-U3

Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

MARINE MASTER Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

MASTERCRAFT Dockside Marine Open Area # 4500, 4700 ..........................GRID: F4-G4

Open Area # 8300 ...................................GRID: M5-N5

McCLAIN Coastline Marine

Open Area # 11900 ..................................GRID: R1-S3

Lakeshore Sports

DIAMOND CITY Boats Etc.

Open Area # 12500 .................................. GRID: T3-T4

Gene’s Powersports Country

Open Area # 4100 ....................................GRID: F5-G6

Lynn Sailboats Open Area # 12507 ....................................... GRID: U4

McClain Trailers, Inc.

Open Area # 8300 ...................................GRID: M5-N5

Mt. Houston Marine

Open Area # 9500, 9505 ......................... GRID: N3-O4

Red Wing Boat Co. Inc.

Open Area # 9100, 9105 ......................... GRID: N5-O6

Reynolds Marine, Inc.

Open Area # 8500 ....................................GRID: L4-N4

Ron Hoover RV & Marine

Open Area # 1505, 2500, 3500 ............... GRID: A3-B4

Texas Boat Sales

Open Area # 12100, 12101 ...................... GRID: T5-T6

Texas Marine

Open Area # 10100, 11100, 12105 ..........GRID: P5-R6

Texas Sportfishing Yacht Sales

Open Area # 4313 .....................................GRID: G5-I5

RANGER Red Wing Boat Co. Inc.

Open Area # 9100, 9105 ......................... GRID: N5-O6

ROAD KING Capt. Kirk’s Marine Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

SHORELAND’R Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

Texas Marine

Open Area # 10100, 11100, 12105 ..........GRID: P5-R6

TEXAS BRAGG McClain Trailers, Inc.

Open Area # 8300 ...................................GRID: M5-N5

TRAILMASTER Capt. Kirk’s Marine

Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

TRITON Team Mancuso Powersports Open Area # 11005 ..................................GRID: S6-S7

Texas Yamaha Motorsports

Open Area # 3005 .................................... GRID: E6-F7

VM Texas Boat Sales

Open Area # 12100, 12101 ...................... GRID: T5-T6

TROLLING MOTORS MINN KOTA Capt. Kirk’s Marine Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

G & S Trolling Motors, Inc.

Booth # 628 ................................................... GRID: K4

Gulf Coast Complete Marine Service

Open Area # 12000 .................................. GRID: T6-T7

MOTORGUIDE Capt. Kirk’s Marine Open Area # 10500 ..................................GRID: P3-R4

G & S Trolling Motors, Inc.

Booth # 628 ................................................... GRID: K4

l

24 |

J AN

BoatShowProgram.indd 24

8 -1 7

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

2 0 1 6

12/14/15 11:48 AM

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

2016

BoothFinder Finder p

NEW FOLD-OUT SECTION

Open Areas 1000 to 3900

Hall E

Open Areas 4000-7905

Open Areas 8000-9905

Booths 100-981

Booths 238-347

Halls C&D

Hall B

Open Areas 10000 to 12900

Hall A

The following FOLD OUT SECTION provides a detailed floor plan of the show.

Boat and RV dealers exhibiting in OPEN AREAS are shown on the Floor Plan by Name and Area Number.

To find a smaller BOOTH Exhibitor, check the Booth Listings on the REVERSE FLAP PANEL (A3) covering the right side of the FLOOR PLAN MAP (next 3 pages) and look for the Booth Number and Grid Location on the Floor Plan.

You can also look up Exhibitors in the EXHIBITOR LISTING (p8-14) and in the BUYER’S GUIDE (p15-24).

A1 |

PHOTO CREDIT

2 0 1 6

J A N INTERNATIONAL 4 - 1 3 J A &N TRAVEL 8 - 1 SHOW 7 HOUSTON HOUSTON BOAT, SPORT INTERNATIONAL & TRAVELBOAT, SHOWSPORT

2 0 1 3

| A1

2016 HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

BoothFinder Look up booth Number and Grid Location on the Alpha List below

123 | A | B | C

D | E | F | G | H...

...H | I | J | K | L | M...

...M | N | O | P | R | S

T|U|V|W|Y

1Smart Spa

Cutco Cutlery

Happy Feet

Mobile Graphics

Team Windows

A Action Realty

Discount Hitch & Truck Accessories

HappyFeet USA

National Weather Service

Telltales Magazine

Harborwalk Community, Yacht Club & Marina

Neptune Shallow Water Anchors

Booth # 936, 937.........................Grid: L3 Booth # 315...................................Grid: I6

Booth # 678................................. Grid: H4

Booth # 366.................................. Grid: J5

Advantage Marine Ins. LLC

Booth # 361.................................. Grid: J5

DLFender/Wipeout Eraser

Booth # 704................................. Grid: H4

Alaska’s Bearclaw Lodge

Booth # 870...................................Grid: I3

Booth # 367.................................. Grid: J5 Booth # 933..................................Grid: K3

Booth # 312...............................Grid: I5/I6

Booth # 636..................................Grid: L4 Booth # 672...................................Grid: I4 Booth # 967.................................. Grid: J3

Nutty Buddies Too

Booth # 677................................. Grid: H4

Booth # 381................................. Grid: H5 Booth # 558..................................Grid: K5

Texas Beer Bus

Booth # 324.................................. Grid: J6

Texas Bluewater Mafia

DMJ Charters

HEVC Box

Alaskan Wilderness Outfitting Company

Dockside Boat Lifts

Hill Norvell Alaskan Fishing

Oil Paintings & Frame Warehouse

Texas Boat Exchange

Amber Way Jewelry

Dottie’s

Hook Spit Fishing Gear

Olympic Pools & Spas

Texas Fish & Game Magazine

America Outdoor Furniture

DROP-OFF Boat & RV Specialty Cleaning Products

Hooks Plus

Duce Rods

iCooler - Intelligent Recreational Cooler

Booth # 758..................................Grid: K4

Booth # 624.................................. Grid: J4 Booth # 281................................. Grid: H6 Booth # 838, 847.........................Grid: L3

Booth # 226, 227, 258, 259.........Grid: K6 Booth # 528, 529.........................Grid: K5

Booth # 804................................. Grid: H3

AMI Insurance Agency

Booth # 747..................................Grid: L4

Booth # 714, 715..........................Grid: I4

Anchor Marine Insurance

Booth # 556, 557.........................Grid: K5

E-Z Boat Storage & Valet Launch

Booth # 209, 210, 211................ Grid: H6

Eagle Point Fishing Camp

Booth # 201................................. Grid: G6

Booth # 869...................................Grid: I3 Booth # 910, 911, 912, 913, 914, 971, 972, 973, 974, 975.........................Grid: I3 Booth # 629..................................Grid: K4

Booth # 383................................. Grid: G5

Ideal Outdoor Living

Booth # 833, 834, 835, 850, 851, 852..... .................................................Grid: K3/L3

Elton Porter Marine Insurance

Impulse Fishing Charters

Aqua Gardens

Endeavour Marina

Intercoastal Financial Group, LLC

Excell Boat Lifts LLC

iPainFree

Far Flung Outdoor Center

Jarman Marine Yacht Sales

Fish Dude’s Guide Service

Johnston & Mayer Oasis Yachts

Fishing Tackle Unlimited

Jordan’s Outdoor Fun

Booth # 826..................................Grid: K3 Booth # 456..................................Grid: K5

Aqua Lube

Booth # 563, 566......................... Grid: J5 Booth # 519.................................. Grid: J5 Booth # 332............................ Grid: K5/K6

Booth # 249, 250, 251.................Grid: L6

Art by L. Mower, LLC

Booth # 631..................................Grid: K4

Booth # 815...................................Grid: I3

Atlas Industrial Supply, Inc.

Booth # 674...................................Grid: I4

Booth # 329............................ Grid: K5/K6

BAAD Marine Supply

Booth # 915...................................Grid: I3

Booth # 918, 919, 921, 922, 923............. ................................................. Grid: J3/J4

Booth # 757..................................Grid: K4 Booth # 560.............................Grid: J5/K5 Booth # 651..................................Grid: L4 Booth # 203................................. Grid: H6 Booth # 567.................................. Grid: J5 Booth # 341, 342, 343, 344........Grid: M6

JZ Custom Rails, Inc.

Booth # 647, 648.........................Grid: L4

Baumann Propeller, LLC

Fishing Tom Guide Service

Bay Area Sailing Association

Five Star Scooters

Bay Area Sailing School

Freedom Boat Club

Bethy Creek RV Resort

Fujimi Luxury Massage Chairs

Biobor Fuel Additives

Funny Bricks

Biotherapy, Inc.

G & S Trolling Motors, Inc.

Breakwater Marine Electronics

Galati Yacht Sales

Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock

Galveston Yacht Basin

Cajun Paradise Lodge & Charters

Gene’s Powersports Country – EZ Dock

LiftMasters Gulf Coast

Genesis II Art & Photography

Low Country Satellite & Audio

Booth # 827..................................Grid: K3 Booth # 101, 102........................ Grid: G6 Booth # 100................................. Grid: G6 Booth # 880................................. Grid: H3 Booth # 230..................................Grid: K6 Booth # 427, 904.................. Grid: K5, H3 Booth # 626, 627, 658, 659.........Grid: K4 Booth # 881................................. Grid: H3 Booth # 656..................................Grid: K4

Booth # 831..................................Grid: K3

Booth # 384................................. Grid: G5

Booth # 780, 781........................ Grid: H4

Booth # 561.................................. Grid: J5

Booth # 518.................................. Grid: J5 Booth # 216, 217..........................Grid: I6

Kevin Severance Insurance

Booth # 200................................. Grid: G6

Kevin’s Boat & Motor Repair

Booth # 633, 634, 635............Grid: K4/L4

Booth # 935..................................Grid: L3 Booth # 628..................................Grid: K4

Laguna Custom Rods

Booth # 926, 959.........................Grid: K3

Larry Cohen

Booth # 657..................................Grid: K4

Booth # 322, 363......................... Grid: J6 Booth # 568..............................Grid: I5/J5

Booth # 419.................................. Grid: J5

Carefree Boat Club

Ken’s Beef Jerky

Booth # 950, 951, 952............Grid: K3/L3

Booth # 733, 734, 735............Grid: K4/L4

Captain Roy’s Captain School

Kemah Boardwalk Marina

LaRue’s Guide Service

Booth # 664.................................. Grid: J4

LeafGuard by Beldon

Booth # 204................................. Grid: H6 Booth # 604, 605........................ Grid: H4 Booth # 938..................................Grid: L3

Getaway Adventures Lodge

Lowrance - Navico

Catch A Trophy Fishing Guide Service on Lake Conroe, Texas

Grind Terminal Tackle

Mantus Anchors

CCA Texas

GripStic

Marcaccio’s Guide Service

Chandeleur Charters

Groves Guide Service

MarineMax

Charter Lakes Marine Insurance

Gulf Coast Boating Center Inc.

Circle It Organic Concentrated All Purpose Cleaner

Gypsy Guide Service

Booth # 413...................................Grid: I5

Booth # 614...................................Grid: I4

Booth # 727..................................Grid: K4 Booth # 663.................................. Grid: J4 Booth # 769...................................Grid: I4 Booth # 738..................................Grid: L4

Booth # 278................................. Grid: H6

Booth # 908................................. Grid: H3 Booth # 304................................. Grid: H6 Booth # 630..................................Grid: K4 Booth # 212, 213..........................Grid: I6 Booth # 771...................................Grid: I4

H & H Rods

Booth # 661, 662......................... Grid: J4

Coastal Cruizers Custom Carts, LLC

Booth # 103, 104, 105, 106........ Grid: H6

H & H Tents and Events

Booth # 848..................................Grid: L3

Booth # 610, 611..........................Grid: I4 Booth # 207, 208........................ Grid: H6 Booth # 716...................................Grid: I4

Booth # 300, 385, 708, 777..................... ......................................... Grid: G5/G6, H4

Master Hitch, Inc.

Booth # 269, 270..........................Grid: I6

McCombs Properties

Booth # 231, 232, 233, 252, 253, 254.Grid: K6

Booth # 279, 306, 308, 309, 377............. ................................................. Grid: H5/I6

Outdoor Republic

Booth # 222.................................. Grid: J6

Palmer Power Corporation

Booth # 335.............................Grid: L5/L6

Passionately Rivalicious

Booth # 273, 274, 275..................Grid: I6

Personal Go Fan /Cynex

Booth # 679................................. Grid: H4

PlashLights

Booth # 346..................................Grid: L5

Porta-Bote International

Booth # 347..................................Grid: L5

Booth # 467.................................. Grid: J5

Premier Boat Dock & Patio

Booth # 428, 429.........................Grid: K5

R and S Yacht Service

Booth # 569...................................Grid: I5

R.P.I. Marketing

Booth # 327, 358.........................Grid: K6

Randy McGovern

Booth # 654, 655.........................Grid: K4

Reel Men Fishing Charters

Booth # 622.................................. Grid: J4

RG Enterprizes

Booth # 242.................................Grid: M6

Booth # 559..................................Grid: K5

TKO Lures

Booth # 726, 759.........................Grid: K4

Tuff Spas of Texas

Booth # 317, 318, 319.............Grid: I6/J6

U. S. Customs and Border Protection

Booth # 927, 928, 929, 930, 931, 954, 955, 956, 957, 958........................Grid: K3

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

Booth # 810, 811, 812, 873, 874, 875.Grid: I3

VibaBody Machine

Safe Floor

Vrienden Umbrellas

Sarge Customs

Waterloo Rod Company U.S.A.

School of Seamanship

Wave Pads of Texas

Shorestation Boat Lifts and Docks

West Yachts & Brokerage

Signature Shutters of Houston

Wild Alaska Sportfishing

SOFTUB

Williams Party Boats, Inc.

Spice Exchange

Wonderful Windows and Siding

Sport Divers

Worlds Best Box/Amazing TV Box

Booth # 224.................................. Grid: J6

Booth # 650..................................Grid: L4

Star Glow Products International

Yacht Service displaying SeaDek Boat Flooring

Stillwater Refuge

You Name It! Personalized Rings and Other Things

Booth # 924.................................. Grid: J3 Booth # 109................................. Grid: G6 Booth # 770...................................Grid: I4 Booth # 829, 830.........................Grid: K3 Booth # 606................................. Grid: H4 Booth # 284, 285........................ Grid: G6 Booth # 316...................................Grid: I6 Booth # 235, 236.........................Grid: L6 Booth # 752..................................Grid: K4

Booth # 229, 272, 522, 652..................... .....................................Grid: K6, I6, J5, K4 Booth # 961.................................. Grid: J3

Booth # 710, 775..........................Grid: I4 Booth # 238, 239, 246, 247.........Grid: L6 Booth # 947..................................Grid: L3 Booth # 263.................................. Grid: J6 Booth # 808, 877........................ Grid: H3 Booth # 916, 969..........................Grid: I3 Booth # 276................................. Grid: H6 Booth # 422, 463......................... Grid: J5 Booth # 858..................................Grid: K3 Booth # 623.................................. Grid: J4 Booth # 836..................................Grid: L3

Booth # 301................................. Grid: G6

Booth # 370...................................Grid: I5

Booth # 513, 514, 515, 570, 571, 572..... .......................................................Grid: I5

Stow-A-Way Marina & RV Park Surfside Marina

8 -1 7

The Rust Game Place & Meat Market

Sackett’s Sailing Center

Miracle Grill Mat

JAN

Booth # 681................................. Grid: H4

The Ranch House on Baffin Bay

Venice on the Lake RV Resort

Booth # 256..................................Grid: K6

Millennium Marine, Inc.

Booth # 977................................. Grid: H3

Booth # 218, 219, 266, 267......... Grid: J6

The Palms Marina

Russelure

Hackberry Rod & Gun

Booth # 859..................................Grid: K3

Booth # 469, 470..........................Grid: I5

The Boat Lift Company

Veer Group, Inc.

Hackberry Charters

Booth # 730, 731, 754, 755.........Grid: K4

Booth # 621.................................. Grid: J4

Texas Shoreline Properties

Rocky Mountain Nut Roasters

Stone & Sons Marine

Booth # 618, 619, 666, 667......... Grid: J4

Booth # 466.................................. Grid: J5

Texas Outdoors Journal, Inc.

Underwater Green Fishing Lights

Booth # 857..................................Grid: K3

Coastline Custom Aluminum

Booth # 612, 613..........................Grid: I4

Booth # 671...................................Grid: I4

Texas Mobile Shrink Wrap

RJ Hunting & Fishing Service

Coastal Prairie Outdoors

Booth # 856..................................Grid: K3

Booth # 816...................................Grid: I3

Texas Law Shield

Booth # 772...................................Grid: I4

Power Home Remodeling Group

Mike Hood’s Marine Propeller Service

Booth # 637, 638.........................Grid: L4

Booth # 338, 339.........................Grid: L6

l

Booth # 675...................................Grid: I4 Booth # 471, 472..........................Grid: I5

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

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| A2

p

Angling Adventures – Capt.

Jamie C. Pinter

Booth # 978, 979........................ Grid: H3

Booth # 711...................................Grid: I4

see floorplan fold out

Booth # 680................................. Grid: H4

Angel’s Marine

Booth # 934..................................Grid: L3

2016 HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW A

B

C

E

F

G

Hall E

SMG Wake of Houston

1500

1505

3900

Texas Sport Boats

t AISLE 3000 u

2900 t AISLE 2000 u

t AISLE 1000 u

1900

2500

4900

The Nautic Group

t AISLE 4000 u

1

2

D

3500

4905

DeMontrond RV

Camping World

4700

3

Dockside Marine CROC ENCOUNTERS

Ron Hoover Marine

Ron Hoover Marine

Ron Hoover Marine 4500

Dockside Marine

4

Use FLAP A3 to Find Individual Booth Numbers u

1100

5

2100

LMC Marine Center

3100

LMC Marine Center

4100

MarineMax

4313

Texas Spo Yacht

Lakeshore Sports

300 385 384 383 382 & 385 301 302 303

285 284-285 283 282

6

Gulf Coast Marine

2000

2005

Gulf Coast Marine

3001

3005

3000

Texas Yamaha Motorsports

Gulf Coast Marine

Concession Seating

t AISLE 4000 u

1005

t AISLE 3000 u

1000

t AISLE 2000 u

t AISLE 1000 u

7

200 201 202 203

4001

4000

109 108 107 106 103-106 100 101-102 102

Discover Boating

4005

Discover Boating

GMC

p

(No Entry)

ENTRANCE

E

8

D

BoothFinder Symbols 9

Concessions

A

A3 |

2 0 1 6

Emergency Medical Center

Public Restrooms

B

Show Ticket OfďŹ ce

C

D

HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

E J A N

F 8 - 1 7

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

Halls C&D

O

Hall B

t RV AREA u

Bubble Runners

Lone Star Lone Star RV RV

904 905 906 907 908

910-914 916 975 974 973 972 971 969 & & 911 912 913 914 915 969 971-975

808 881 880 879 878 877 & 804 805 806 807 877

810-812 875 874 873 872 871 870 869 & 811 812 813 814 815 816 873-875

780-781 780 779 778 708 777 & 704 705 706 707 777

710 775 774 773 772 771 770 769 & 715 716 775 711 712 713 714-715

681 680 679 678 677

675 674 673 672 671 670 669

604-605 605 606 607 608

610-611 611 612-213 613 614 615 616

980-981 980 978-979 978 977

6900

Food & Bar

000 966 967 000 000 962-964 000 962 963 000 961 000 000 919 000 918-923 000 922 921 000 923 000 924 000

7900

7905

Topper’s Camping Center

8900

GEICO

926 927-931 000 000 959 958 957 000 000 955 956 000 954 000 & & 000 000 000 928 000 930 929 000 931 000 959 954-958

8905

Terry Vaughn RVs

000 950-952 000 950 951 000 949 000 948 000 947 000

8700

718

9905

Bass Shop Track Mari

The Nautic Group

9500

9505

000 934 933 000 935 000 000 936-937 000 938 937 000

t GUIDES, GEAR & FISHING TACKLE TERRITORY u

ne

9900 t AISLE 9000 u

Camping World

5905

t AISLE 8000 u

t AISLE 5000 u

5900

Texas Tigé Marine 833-835 838 852 000 000 850 851 000 000 849 848 000 847 000 & & 000 000 835 834 000 836 000 000 837 000 850-852 847

000 858 859 000 857 000 856 000 855 000 854 000

Fishing Tackle Unlimited

000 827 826 000 828 000 000 829-830 000 831 830 000 726 730-731 000 000 759 758 757 000 000 756 755 000 000 754 & & 000 727 000 000 728 729 000 000 000 731 759 754-755

000 751 752 000 750 000 749 000 748 000 747 000

618-619 667 000 000 000 666 664 663 000 000 661-662 000 661 & 000 000 621 619 000 000 622 623 000 000 624 666-667

626-627 659 000 000 000 658 657 656 000 000 654-655 000 654 & 000 000 628 627 000 000 629 630 000 000 631 658-659

000 651 652 000 650 000 649 000 000 647-648 000 647

Mt. Houston Marine

8500

000 733-735 000 735 734 000 736 000 737 000 738 000

Mt Hous Mari

Reynolds Marine

ne

000 633-635 000 635 634 000 636 000 000 637-638 000 638

mbers u

4313

Texas Sportfishing Yacht Sales

513-515 572 571 570 569 568 567 566 & 514 515 516 517 518 519 570-572

563 561 560 559 558 556-557 556

471-472 471 469-470 469 468 467 466

422 463 461 460 459 458 457 456 & 429 463 424 425 426 427 428-429

6327

8300

9100

Northshore Marine 413 414 415 416 417 418 419

McClain Trailers

Red Wing Boat Co.

8100

4005

Discover Boating

t AISLE 5000 u

107 106 105 103-106 104

101-102 102

206-207 208

322 363 361 360 359 327 358 & & 363 324 325 326 358

218-219 270 269-270 268 267 266 & 216-217 217 266-267 219

226-227 263 261 260 259 258 & 222 224 227 258-259

315 316

272

209-211 210 211 212-213 213

5000

Sea-Doo and Evinrude

p

6005

MarineMax

329

332

347 346 345 344 343 341-344 338-339 339 340 342

335

231-233 256 255 254 253 252 251 249-251 250 & 229 230 252-254 232 233 235-236 236

7000

Austin Canoe & Kayak

238-239 247 246 245 244 243 & 239 240 241 242 244-245

8000

Bowden Marine

8005

Kroll’s Marine

9000

9005

Hous Are Che Deal

Mattress Firm

p

(No Entry)

ENTRANCE

Red W Boat

Sport Marine

t AISLE 9000 u

279 278 277 276 275 273-275 274

202 203 204

317-319 318 319

370 369 368 367 366

312

t AISLE 8000 u

283 282 281

309

t AISLE 7000 u

306

302 303 304

t AISLE 6000 u

383 382 381

9105

522 524 525 526 527 528-529 529

ENTRANCE 6T

D

C

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LOBBY

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New Year, New Season for Boating BY LENNY RUDOW

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HAT’S THE BEST THING about the new year? Why, it’s boat show season, of course.

Whether you’re planning to buy a new boat or just enjoy gawking at all the gleaming fiberglass, there’s no better way for you, your friends, and your family to see a slew of boats at the same time, in the same place. Added

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bonus: boat dealers plan on selling at these shows, so deals abound. Ready, set, let’s go to the boat show!

New Boat Trends One of the most startling things you’ll see at the boat show is the integration of technology. Yes, even boats are becoming “smart.” A prime example can be found in the new Connext system (made by and for Yamaha).

This is a touch-screen unit that not only provides digital

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switching ability for systems like ballast tank filling and evacuation, all electrical systems ranging from lights to the stereo, and even pre-set cruising and towing modes, it also serves as an information display for things like water depth, fuel level, and compass heading. Essentially, it’s both a control system and an information hub for the boat.

And Connext is not unique. Particularly in the high-end watersports market, many manufacturers are JAN

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installing similar proprietary all-in-one control and data systems at the helm. Yet at the same time, marine electronics manufacturers are integrating similar abilities in their MFDs. You can mount an MFD from the likes of Raymarine, Garmin, Simrad, or Lowrance, and use it as a control station for much of the boat—in some cases, even bringing Wi-Fi aboard.

For many boat owners, all this complexity isn’t really necessary. But if you’re an angler looking for a more

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utilitarian fishing boat, 2016 still holds a number of surprises for you. One of the most useful innovations we’re seeing in new model center consoles, for example, is the integration of adjustable backrests for bow seating. First

seen just a few years ago, virtually all center console builders are now adding them to models that offer the common V-shaped seats in the bow.

Another seating trend that’s taking off is the extension of forward console

seats. In the past we always found rather uncomfortable, bench-like seating in this spot. But many builders have begun extending this seat, turning it into a full-blown lounge. Not only is it a lot more comfortable to sit in, but

The trend in center console seating is moving toward comfort.

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Powerful Progress

Lower priced boat-motor-trailer packages are another welcomed trend for 2016.

you usually get a generous bulk-stowage area underneath, too.

In smaller boats, another movement in the industry is sure to be quite welcome: the shift to lower priced boatmotor-trailer packages. Several builders have come out with new-for-2016 models in the 16’ to 18’ range with MSRP at under $20,000. No, these aren’t the fanciest boats in the world and they don’t have the biggest powerplants nor the most optional equipment. But the rising cost of boats has been a major

concern among middle-class boaters for years, and it’s about time manufacturers We’re seeing major advances in responded by offering boat-motor-trailer packages that are affordable to the aver- marine propulsion, too, particularly when it comes to outboard engines. So age American. many, in fact, that it’s worth looking at Beyond these general trends in several manufacturers individually: boats, you’ll find a slew of new gear at the boat show. Every major electronBRP – The big ics manufacturer has new news came last units hitting the market year, of course, right now, ranging from with the introsimple $100 fishfinders duction of the to networked systems G2 secondworthy of a sportfishing generation yacht. Here are just a ETECs. These few of the other things are now availyou might encounter durable in 200 to ing a day at the show: 300 horsepower new lifts incorporating models, and offer hydraulics (instead of improved fuel econthose rusty old cables); omy, faster accelerainflatable throwtion, lower emissions, cushions that replace and improved rigging. the old square pads We’ve had the opportu(but take up a quarter Evinrude ETEC nity to run a number of the space); waterproof from BRP. of boats with G2’s on stereo speakers that hook up to them during the past your cell phone; dive masks with year, and the jury is built-in waterproof POV cameras in—these engines get a (and waterproof cases that turn big thumbs-up. your phone into an underwater video camera); the list goes on and on.

Connext touch screen digital control system.

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HONDA – The BF 90 has been tweaked to increase max RPM, to create the BF100. While that’s not a huge Honda’s 90-Horse has increased RPM.

Mercury Verado

leap, note that it’s a significantly lighter outboard (by 112 pounds) than the BF115.

MERCURY – The entire Verado and Pro FourStroke outboard lines now benefit from trickle-down technology, thanks to improvements made for Mercury’s new Verado 350. Better knock sensors, a combined lift pump/ high-pressure fuel pump, and an external fuel/water separator (replacing the fuel filter under the cowl) are all important changes. But one do-it-yourselfers

will love is the addition of a sticker under the cowl which has scan-able QR codes that take you to howto service videos. With your phone in-hand, you can learn how to handle maintenance chores on the spot.

SUZUKI – All the major players now offer joystick control on multi-engine outboards, and Suzuki has expanded their Precision Maneuvering Control System to include 150 through 300 horsepower outboard applications.

Suzuki outboards now include precision joystick control.

That’s what’s new, but in this case, a quick flash-back is also in order. In 2012 Suzuki introduced new DF15A and DF20A outboards, featuring battery-less EFI. With three seasons of hard use on a DF15A test engine—ranging from saltwater fishing to hunting to trot-lining—we can now confidently say that these motors are as rugged and reliable as they come. Added bonus: battery-less EFI eliminates the usual problems associated with ethanol gumming up the carburetor.

TOHATSU – The latest news from Tohatsu comes on the smaller end of the horsepower scale, with redesigned four, five, and six horsepower portables.

Here’s the kicker: these engines are incredibly light—the four-horse model weighs just 57 pounds. Their 15 and 20 horse engines also got a boost, with a power tilt feature added. And since these engines are available in 15” and 20” shaft lengths, an appropriate model

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SHO 150 and 250 X-Shaft, the updated F150, and a new F8 portable. But one of the greatest advancements Yamaha has made recently has flown under the radar screen of many boaters: their shift dampener system. This propeller feature, which has now worked its way through the majority of Yamaha’s propeller line-up, vastly reduces the clunk and thunk of shifting into and out of gear. If you haven’t experienced it yet, you should—the difference is dramatic.

Tohatsu’s full line of outboards includes lightweight portables ranging from 2.5 to 20 horsepower.

can be found for everything from small pontoon boats to saltwater fishing skiffs.

YAMAHA – Yamaha started 2015 with this introduction of six—count ‘em, six—new models including the V MAX SHO 115 and 175, the V MAX

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So: are you psyched up? We sure hope so. And when you do start wandering through that fiberglass forest, use these boat show shopping tips to make it as productive as it is fun.

1. BRING a digital camera or keep your cell phone handy, and take lots of pictures. By the end of the day the different boats begin to run together in your mind, so back up your memory with pictures. Extra Tip: snap off a pic of the price sheet displayed on a

model of interest, to continue comparison shopping when you go home.

2. SOME BOATS will have a ton of options while others will only have a few, and that can make a boat that’s a good value appear overly expensive (or viseversa). Break out a Yamaha calculator or pad VC and pen, and make V Max sure you’re comparSHO ing apples to apples.

3. DEALERS go to boat shows with selling in mind. This is a good time to negotiate your best deal, so you may be able to get an option or two for free, if you’re willing to sign on the dotted line at the show.

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A Boater’s Shopping Guide 32 |

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BY LENNY RUDOW

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RE YOU SEARCHING FOR THAT ideal fishing, hunting, or waters-

ports boat? This boat shopper’s guide will help you make a smart pick.

You’re shopping for a boat?

We’re glad you’ve made that decision—and we’re sure you won’t regret it. But let’s make one thing clear right at the start: there’s no such thing as the “perfect” boat. What’s ideal for you one day may be so-so the next, when you shift gears and go after a different species of fish. Or when you go freshwater fishing rather than hitting the saltwater. Or when you decide to go duck hunting, instead of fishing. And that same boat will be sub-par when you take the kids water skiing or wakeboarding. You get the picture—all boats have their own ups and downs relating to each way you use them. The trick is to find the boat that best fits your needs, and is as specialized or as wide-ranging as your own interests. Never fear, dear boater, because we can help you in this search. As you go shopping consider each of these types of boats, and their up-sides and down-sides, before you make your choice.

ALUMINUM SKIFFS These boats are uber-simple, and provide a small, wide-open, fishing or hunting platform. They’re one of the most popular types of boats around, and thanks to high demand on the used market, aluminum skiffs retain their value better than many other types of boats.

UPS:

• Thanks to their simple design, skiffs are just about the least expensive boats on the water.

• Thanks to their simple design, they can be used for just about anything—fishing in all types of waters, hunting (if you choose the boat’s finish appropriately, of course), or just cruising around the lake is no problem.

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• Aluminum construction means they’re lightweight, require less power than similarly-sized fiberglass boats, are easy to trailer, and easy to launch and retrieve.

• Long term maintenance costs are extremely low.

DOWNS: • Aluminum skiffs aren’t the best for handling large waves, nor open waters.

• They have little in the way of creature comforts, and even less in the way of protection from the sun and weather.

• Since they’re light they tend to get blown around easily, which may make drift fishing in a breeze difficult.

• Most don’t have as much eye-appeal as fiberglass rigs.

Bow Riders

When it comes to playing around on the water, bowriders rule. They offer maximum seating, easy accessibility to the water, and peppy performance.

There are a million choices of all sizes and prices out there, and many new boaters start out by buying a boat of this design.

UPS: • Gobs of comfy seating await you and your family.

• A wide range of options are available, from stereos to tow-towers to different sizes and types of powerplants.

• Most have large swim platforms

and aft facing seats, so they’re ideal for towing water toys and wakeboards.

DOWNS: • These boats aren’t usually designed with fishing in mind, and won’t be a first choice for sportsmen. And on most bowriders, hunting is simply out of the question.

• While there is a wide range available, pricing tends to be higher than on simpler boats with fewer creature comforts.

• They offer little protection from the sun and weather.

Center Consoles & Bay Boats:

By placing the steering system in the middle of the boat, a center console offers the most useable deck space of just about any design. You can find them in both aluminum and fiberglass, and though most people think of center consoles as fishing machines, truth be told they’re also awesome for many other uses. In fact, thanks to comfort-adding touches like T-tops and console head compartments, the center console makes an excellent family boat even for those with small children.

Bay boats are really a sub-category of center consoles—but a very important one, especially for those of us living and fishing inshore around the Gulf. They usually have large, open casting decks

Bowriding Cruiser

Center Console

both fore and aft, and less V in the hulls to reduce draft. While this makes them better for fishing inshore, it also means that many bay boats don’t handle seas quite as well as center consoles with deep-V hulls.

UPS: • Maximum deck space means maximum fishability. Plus, putting the steering station and T-top in the center of the boat provides 360-degree fishing action.

• Camo versions are available, so (smaller, aluminum) center consoles can also do double-duty as hunting boats.

• Center consoles are available in both aluminum and fiberglass, in all size and price ranges.

• Larger models are usually built on deep-V hulls, and are ideal for offshore use; bay boat models have less V in the hull, and are ideal for inshore waters.

• Commonly, center consoles over 18’ offer a head compartment inside the console. Versions with and without bow seating are available, so you can choose to make a center console as comfort/ family oriented as you choose.

• Most come with a good selection of fishing accouterments built-in. Coolers, livewells, rod holders, rod stowage racks, cutting boards, and the like are all usually present and accounted for.

DOWNS: • This design doesn’t maximize seating, so it may not be ideal for cruises or sight-seeing with large numbers of people aboard.

• Many center consoles designed

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to handle larger, open bodies of water require large powerplants, big fuel tanks, and lots of draft.

• Those designed to handle larger, open bodies of water are also heavy and require large tow vehicles.

• Larger models built on deep-V hulls are less ideal for inshore use; bay boat models with less V in the hull are less ideal for offshore use.

Dual Consoles & Fish ‘N Ski Boats:

This type of boat has grown increasingly popular lately, and it’s no wonder.

The combination of an open aft cockpit and a bow with seating (similar to that of a bowrider) gives the dual console excellent versatility. While the design may not be ideal for any one activity, it does a god job for virtually every type of activity.

UPS: • The dual console design provides windshield protection for both the captain and at least one other passenger.

• Bow compartments on most DC’s offer additional seating, as well as a bit of extra fishing space.

• Many modern designs incorporate head compartments into the passenger’sside console.

• Dual consoles are also good for watersports; models designed to do double-duty often carry the Fish ‘N Ski designation, and offer things like tow pylons and swim platforms in addition to rodholders and livewells.

DOWNS: • A DC can’t offer as much fishing space as a dedicated fishboat.

• A DC usually doesn’t offer as much seating nor watersports accouterments as a bowrider or a dedicated watersports boat.

• If hunting is in the mix, your choices will be fairly limited (though there are a few DC boats out there which are tweaked to accommodate occasional hunting).

• Dual consoles which offer head compartments usually offer minimal deck space, as the consoles need to be more substantial.

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Pontoon Boat

Pontoon Boats

Yes, they look boxy and rather unboatish. But pontoons have proven their merit, especially on inland lakes and reservoirs, as both party barges and fishing platforms. Since they’re commonly built on a single-level wide-open deck, they’re highly customizable when it comes to seating, console, and layout arrangements, and you can usually choose to have a pontoon boat laid out however you like. Don’t worry about performance, either—if you up the ante to a tri-toon and pay for a large powerplant, lots of models offer speed and performance rivaling V-bottom boats.

UPS: • Their rectangular footprint makes for gobs of deck space.

• Plenty of versions are available which are more or less inclined towards fishing, watersports, or just bumming around on the lake.

• Pop-up head compartments and Bimini tops are options on virtually all makes and models.

• They’re extremely stable, and rock and roll far less than V-hull boats.

DOWNS: • Large waves may roll over the deck, and pontoon boats are not ideal in waterways which are subject to significant seas.

• Load up a pontoon with all the options and seating you desire, and you may find its price goes through the roof.

• Because of their high “fences” along the sides, many pontoons have very high windage and get blown around quite a bit.

• Many pontoon boats turn flat as opposed to banking in turns, which can send coolers and gear—or in extreme cases, people—sliding across the deck.

Specialized Boats If you’re dedicated to a sole purpose, be it backwater fishing or wake surfing, there are models of boats that are just as dedicated as you are. The ups and downs of all of these boats are obvious: the more specialized they are the better they tend to be at one use, but the worse they are for a variety of other uses. A bass boat, for example, simply can’t be beat for fishing in bass tournaments. But it’s exceptionally awful for taking the kids wakeboarding or for running offshore.

How can you pick the specific type of boat that’s best for you and your family?

It’s simple: list out all the things you regularly do afloat, and the things you think you’d like to try. Consider each of the designs outlined here, and the ups and downs of each. Now head for the boat shows, where you can see a large number of these boats side by side.

Finally, choose the boat that both your heart and your brain agree on—and we’re betting, dear boater, that you won’t regret your decision.

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Trailer Splash

HUGE NUMBER OF us are not just boaters, but trailer-boaters.

We keep our fishing and hunting machines in our driveways or back yards, and each and every time we hit the water there’s a trip down the road both before and after.

Yet even those of us who rigorously maintain our boats tend, for the most part, to ignore our trailers. And while

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BY LENNY RUDOW a break-down on land isn’t nearly as inconvenient as it is at sea, it can still cause quite a problem—even an accident. So ask yourself, when’s the last time you: CHECKED THE PRESSURE on your trailer tires. Since trailers sit for longer

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periods than cars or trucks, in-between uses they go through more temperature changes (affecting your tire pressure).

And often, we don’t notice when trailer tires get low because we just don’t pay as much attention to them; it’s far easier to stay on top of the four wheels you drive around with each and every day.

Note that keeping your trailer tires properly inflated really is a big deal.

They support quite a bit of weight and will wear terribly if you pull your boat with them low.

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GREASED THE WHEEL BEARINGS. Most manufacturers believe you should give them a squirt every few thousand miles, but this is hard to keep track of since your trailer doesn’t have an odometer. So it’s better to play this one safe; make a habit of greasing at least once each spring and fall, and again after you make a significant road-trip.

At least once every other season, or every season if you tow extensively, wheel bearing should also be opened up and given a thorough visual inspection.

If your trailer has oil-filled bearings, this won’t be possible. Instead, with these, just look at the hubs to make sure they have the proper oil level and no obvious water contamination.

LUBRICATED THE HITCH. This is one spot almost no one pays attention to. But, do you have to wiggle-jigglefight to get your hitch latched? You shouldn’t have to. Give it a spritz of Boeshield T-9 or CorrosionX, then work the latch open and closed a few times. Not only will this make it easier to operate the latch, it’ll protect the metal, as well.

Note that the coupler should also get a bit of lubrication. It’ll make it easier for the ball to fall into place when you’re hitching up, and also gets rid of a lot of the annoying squeaks and groans you hear while trailering.

LUBRICATED THE JACK STAND. Here’s another item that usually gets ignored until it’s either nearly impossible to use, or it breaks. Depending on the type you have on your trailer it may need to be greased or it may need other lubrication, but either way, treat it right and your trailering life will be easier.

PERFORMED A FULL LIGHT check.

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almost surely know in place and you’ll Keeping the hitch lubricated is one item many boaters forget. already, trailer need an impact lights fail at a specwrench (or possibly tacularly high rate. even a torch) to get The only way to deal with them is to them off. Unless you carry those tools perform a lights check, every time you everywhere you go, merely having the hit the road. spare tire won’t help you one bit.

The solution to this problem is INSPECTED YOUR BRAKES system. simple: at least once a year, loosen the A true story from many years back: I lug nuts, treat them for corrosion if neccouldn’t figure out what that banging essary, then tighten them back down. sensation was every time I stopped As long as you don’t let years at a time while trailering, until I finally noticed go by between spinning those nuts, that the hydraulic ram in the surge you should have no problem removing brakes was moving completely freely, them when you really need to. with no resistance whatsoever. The reason? A brake line had sprung a leak, WASHED YOUR TRAILER down with and there wasn’t a drop of fluid left in freshwater. If you have a bass boat or a the system. Since I always allow extra pontoon you only run at the lake, skip distance when trailering, and hadn’t right on over this one. But each and applied the brakes in a very forceful every time your trailer sees saltwater, manner, I hadn’t even noticed the difit should get a thorough rinse-down ference in my truck’s braking ability. afterwards. Make sure to blast off the But if I’d needed to stop suddenly… whole thing, but pay extra attention to The short story is, check your brake the brakes, lug nuts, lights, and license system’s fluid levels regularly, and also plate, all of which are particular trouble slap an eyeball on the brakes themselves spots. once in a while. And if you happen to If you keep up with all these mainfeel a banging every time you brake, tenance items, will your trailer remain you’ll know what to look for. trouble-free for years to come? Nah. In my experience, no matter how well you REMOVED THE LUG NUTS. This keep it maintained you can still expect one’s a biggie, folks. Many people tow to hit a few bumps along the road. But their trailer for years, believing that with a contentiously-maintained trailer, having a spare tire onboard means they those bumps will be smaller, fewer, and can fix a flat. But quite often, especially much easier to handle. on boats used in saltwater, within a few years those lug nuts get corroded l HOUSTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

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BY LENNY RUDOW

Maintenance Matters

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OOK OUT FOR THESE boat and engine maintenance mishaps, which can put a serious crimp in your boating season.

We hope you give your boat and its engine periodic inspections, keep up with regular maintenance, and fix things as soon as you notice they aren’t operating at 100-percent.

We say “hope” because the numberone maintenance problem is a lack of said maintenance. But sometimes, a regular maintenance chore that we know we need to take care of goes awry.

Try as we might to do the right thing, the wrong thing happens. Look out for these 10 maintenance mishaps, and the time you spend afloat will be worryfree—we hope.

1. THE BROKEN BOLT. We’ve all been there. You choose the correct socket or wrench, apply pressure, and… snap!

Off comes the head. Broken bolts are a major hassle, not only because removing the bolt just became 10 times tougher, but also because you now need to go to the marine supply store and get a replacement.

How can you prevent this problem?

For starters, don’t over-pressure the bolt in the first place. A spritz of PB Blaster, WD-40, or a similar lubricant can work wonders. Spray it on liberally, then give it plenty of time for the juice to seep in.

Secondly, don’t let bolts get corroded in the first place. Usually a bolt that breaks is one that hasn’t been removed for years, while being subjected to lots of moisture and/or saltwater. As soon as you see one going bad, pull and replace it. Finally, when a bolt’s sticky, moderate pressure and some lube

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doesn’t do the trick, and you’re at a loss, try applying some heat. A minute or two with a torch is often all it takes to get a bolt moving again.

2. THE HAZY GLAZE. If you have any sort of clear plastic on your boat—and you almost surely do, either in the windshield, clear canvas curtains, or opening ports—you probably give it regular cleaning. We hope you also polish it with an appropriate product (like Plexus) that replaces the plasticizers, which can leach out over time.

Yet they may still turn hazy; and eventually, it seems like you’re always looking through a thick fog. The first reason this happens is because people clean the clear plastic with a contaminated rag or cloth. All it takes is a tiny bit of grit to scratch the surface of the plastic. The second common reason is using the wrong cleaning products.

Anything containing ammonia, including common window cleaners, will cause the clear plastic to haze up in a flash.

3. GEL COAT GLOSS LOSS. You say you waxed your boat every spring, yet the gel coat is still deteriorating at a rapid pace? While regular waxing is a must, if you don’t eliminate all oxidation first, you lock it in behind that wax and things will only get worse. When you first get ready to wax the hull sides inspect them closely for any chalky spots. If you find any, hit the hull with a good oxidation remover before beginning that wax job.

4. FILTER’S OUT OF KILTER. Fuel filter/water separators go bad with some regularity, whether your fuel becomes contaminated with water or not. Every two or three years, you need to swap them out. Aha! We’ve already identified

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a problem. After two or three years, the threads on fuel filter/water separators quite commonly become corroded. Then it becomes a struggle to remove it, and as you struggle, something breaks. A simple solution is to remove and replace the fuel filter every spring, regardless of its condition.

5. GETTING GOUGED. If your boat lives in a slip, repainting the bottom every few years is a must. But first, you have to get rid of the old paint. Unfortunately, the scraping chore often leads to gashes and gouges in your boat’s bottom. Why? Because many people assume a regular paint scraper or a putty knife is the right tool for the job. It’s not, because most paint scrapers are intended to be used on flat surfaces, not rounded ones like boat hulls. Prevent the problem by grinding off the corners of your scraper or putty knife, to avoid gouging the gel coat as you scrape the loose paint free.

6. FUSE FOLLIES. If your boat has fuses instead of breakers, you probably have perpetual problems with them. In an ideal world you’d replace the system, but in reality, you probably get by with a box of spare fuses and replace some now and again. This works… until it doesn’t.

The reason? The market is flooded with cheap fuses mass-produced overseas, with poor tolerances. It you have perpetual electrical gremlins, there’s a good chance you got a bad batch of fuses. The solution is simple: throw all those cheap fuses away, and get a selection of highquality fuses made in the good ‘ol U.S. of A. 7. OUTBOARD MOUNT MANEUVERS. If you have a long history with small outboards that are mounted with clamps, you’ve almost certainly experienced two things: the clamps becoming too tough 2 0 1 6

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vouch for them since I’ve never used them—Woody Wax is ideal for the purpose, and I operate under the “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it” school of thought, regarding this matter).

9. DON’T SPOIL THE OIL. Regular lower unit oil changes are a must, and if you do this job regularly, you should have one of those handy little pumps that threads onto the neck of the oil bottle. There’s just one problem. Between changes, the pick-up tube of the pump tends to collect dust and grime—which can contaminate the oil the next time you start pumping. Prevent this problem by leaving the pump threaded onto the empty oil bottle the next time you complete an oil change.

to turn because of a lack of lubrication, and the clamps vibrating free, because of the lubrication you gave them. Truth be told, there’s not much of a happy middle ground. You need them lubed a bit, so keep up with that maintenance chore.

But prevent them from spinning open, by connecting the eyes in the two handscrews of the clamps with a zip-tie.

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8. SLICK TRICK. Here’s another double-edged sword: if you don’t wax the deck, it’ll look terrible and become difficult to clean. If you do wax the deck, it’ll become an ice-skating rink. The good news is Woody Wax. This stuff works wonders, without making the deck slippery. (3M and Meguiar’s also make a wax they claim is non-slip, but I can’t

10. EEEEEEW, GROSS. And for our final maintenance mishap tip (drum roll, please) let’s address one of the more odious tasks we boat owners face: cleaning out the portable MSD. At least once each season you’ll need to remove it from the head compartment, get it to a toilet, and hold your nose while you evacuate the contents. But the seals on these things are rarely as effluent-tight as we’d like, and it’s pretty common to have some of the contents leak out as you carry it to the bathroom. True, this probably won’t damage anything. Still, it’s a hideous enough event that we want to take every possible precaution to avoid such sickening spillage. Here’s how: Take a large, heavy-duty lawn-andleaf garbage bag, open it up, and place it on the deck as close to the head as possible. Then move the MSD onto it as carefully as possible, lift the edges of the bag up and around your portable pottie, and carry it to the bathroom while it’s inside the bag. Whew!—thank goodness that maintenance chore is over with for another year.

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A Fishing System for Catching Big Specks

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EVERAL YEARS AGO, I introduced the F.L.E.X. Fishing system, a dedicated plan for catching big fish of any species.

F.L.E.X. stands for Focus-Learn-EliminateExperience and it has revolutionized my personal fishing.

The following are some of the notes from my F.L.E.X. Fishing 速 speckled

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by chester moore trout cheat sheets where I gathered the most detailed information available on giant trout. What you are about to see is truly fascinating and are observations about big trout seldom if ever mentioned in print.

As trout grow larger they begin to

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eat larger prey. The largest trout eat the largest prey. Researchers in Texas and Mississippi have found mullet to be the preferred food of the biggest trout.

Frequently the mullet is half or twothirds the size of the trout.

Big speckled trout feed heavily on ribbonfish (cutlassfish) when they move into bays from the Gulf. Find ribbonfish scurrying to the surface in panic and you will find BIG trout. At a 2 0 1 6

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distance ribbbonfish can be spotted by their silver flashes as they breach.

Trout are not big on migration, but there is some movement between the near-shore Gulf and southern tier of bay and channel systems. Researchers at Louisiana State University say the biggest trout are found in the Gulf, particularly during summer and fall. Nearshore oil and gas platforms as well as boat wrecks can house true monsters.

Salinity can be a factor in locating trophy trout. Researchers with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission have found that adult trout tend to prefer water that is close to seawater in salinity over more brackish water.

A study in Barataria Bay in Louisiana concluded larger trout are most likely to be found over shell or soft (mud) bottom when the water temperature is 75 degrees or higher.

Trout have a layer of tissue that allows them to see in low light conditions and be superior night feeders.

Fishing the pre-dawn hours and using lures or baits with a luminescent quality or that create a stark silhouette can help you exploit this quality and score on big trout.

Sagittae are the sound receptors in fish, and trout have large ones. They are very keen to sounds made by humans and other fish. Throwing lures delicately and working lures and popping corks in a fashion mimicking natural sounds can go a long way to helping anglers catch bigger, wary trout.

Since trout are sensitive both to sound and visual cues, the ability to make long, delicate casts is absolutely crucial in the pursuit of big trout.

Trout have clear, color vision and are super line-shy in clear water. The use of fluorocarbon can help eliminate loss of potential big trout catches.

Trout have both a keen sense of smell and taste which work together simultaneously. Making the right connection when a big trout takes a lure is important because the big fish can be sensitive to non-organic material like plastic.

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FISHING FOCUS symbiotic-type relationship between big trout and alligator gars during the winter in deep, isolated canals. Gars and trout are seen right next to each other seemingly hanging together like a shark and remora.

Could it be the trout are eating the gar’s scraps? Are they simply sharing a similar habitat when their metabolism is low and the gar won’t eat them? Be mindful of gars in the backwaters during winter months.

Researchers in Louisiana have found that manmade reefs attract trout because they concentrate bait fish and help them conserve energy by not having to move much to feed. All big fish prefer not to move more than they have to.

Male trout make a “croaking” noise.

If you catch a bunch of males in an area return there in the evening and prepare to fish late. Males will gather in a spawning aggregation and croak en masse to attract females. This is a highly overlooked time to find big trout at their peak weight.

Big trout often suck topwaters under the surface instead of “blowing up” on it. If this happens to you, wait a second

before setting the hook to give the trout a chance to take it in.

Of the 477 spotted seatrout tagged in a migration study in Alabama, 58 returns were received, and 53 percent exhibited no movement. If you missed a big sow in a particular spot, chances are she is still nearby.

It is a proven fact that a trout’s metabolism slows greatly in winter as its growth rate slows to a crawl. This is even more pronounced in big trout which are by their nature slower moving and more selective.

The biggest trout almost never school. A study conducted by researcher D.C. Tabb found that nearly all trout in excess of six years of age are large, semi-solitary females. These are the giants we dream of.

Big trout are truly elusive, strange fish that do not fit into a particular mold. They are much like giant largemouth bass in that once they reach a certain size, their habits change dramatically. The angler who takes the time to study them and realize they will have to trade catching lots of trout for the chance to get one big trout will probably score on their personal fish of a lifetime.

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BY MATT WILLIAMS

The Line on Fishing Line

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WELL-SCHOOLED angler probably won’t get much of an education here, but a beginner is sure to learn a little something. The topic for discussion is fishing line and a few things to consider in shopping for a string that will best suit your needs.

For starters, remember that not all fishing lines are created equal. The three most popular types are monofilament, fluorocarbon and braid. All three have a place in freshwater fishing arenas, but some are used more frequently than others.

Here’s a look at three most popular types of fishing line:

Monofilament

This is the line many of us grew up with. It remains a mainstay in the arsenals of many anglers, largely because it can be used for a wide variety of applications and techniques. It also is fairly manageable and is the least expensive line for manufacturers to make, which translates to a good price point at the checkout line.

One of the main differences between monofilaments and the other two line types is it has the tendency to stretch under pressure. This can cause some problems with hook penetration on a long cast where there is significant amount of line between you and the fish. However, it can be positive when throwing lipless or billed crankbaits because it gives the fish a little more time to inhale the bait. Monofilaments are generally larger in diameter and lack in sensitivity in comparison to other line types. This may result in reduced castability in heavier line tests and make it more difficult to detect light biting fish.Another major difference between monofilament and fluorocarbon is it 42 |

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FISHING FOCUS floats. This makes it the hands-down favorite for many pro anglers like Jim Tutt of Longview when throwing hard body topwater baits like a Pop-R, Zara Spook or a Lucky Craft Sammy.

“Fluorocarbon will hamper the action of any topwater bait, mainly because it sinks,” Tutt said. “I use mono 100 percent of the time on my topwater baits, but that’s about the only thing I use it for anymore.”

Fluorocarbon

Fluorocarbon line has been on the market for quite a while and during the last decade has become a huge favorite among bass junkies for most chunk and wind applications. Though it closely resembles monofilament, the similarities are only skin deep.

Because of the way it’s manufactured, fluorocarbon line is much less visible beneath the surface, making it more difficult for the fish to see in clear water. Some anglers also contend that it resists abrasion better than mono, which equates to improved durability around heavy cover.

Two other key attributes are that fluorocarbon does not stretch and the line diameter is smaller than monofilament of equal size. This translates to much better sensitivity and better hook penetration on the hookset while maximizing casting performance with larger diameter lines.

Something you need to always remember about fluorocarbon is that it sinks and is much less manageable than monofilament or braid. This makes it a terrible choice when throwing in combination with surface lures. It’s a potential troublemaker on spinning reels because of its tendency to twist and kink.

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Another factor is expense. You can expect to about twice as much or more for a filler spool of fluorocarbon over monofilament, but most serious anglers justify the cost by the improved sensitivity and overall performance.

“Gamma fluorocarbon is about all I use anymore, unless I’m throwing a topwater or flipping in really thick cover,” Tutt said.

Braid

Braided fishing line made its bass fishing debut way back in 1993 when Onalaska bass pro Randy Dearman used a super line called “Lynch Line” to win the Bassmaster Central Invitational held on Sam Rayburn Reservoir. He did it by flipping heavy jigs and plastics tight to ‘Rayburn’s dense willow bushes and buck brush, then relying on the heavy duty line to winch the fish out of the thick cover without the worry of breaking off.

Numerous improvements have since been made to make “super lines” smaller in diameter and stronger and more manageable than ever before, making it a staple in both light and heavy tackle arenas.

“I use it anytime I’ve got a flipping stick in my hands, when I’m throwing a frog around thick vegetation or when I fishing with spinning gear,” Tutt said.

“It’s super sensitive and super strong with zero stretch, so you can turn big fish quickly and horse them out of thick cover. Plus, the smaller diameter lines in 12- to 15-pound test are great to use with spinning reels because they have no memory and don’t twist like fluorocarbon and monofilment will.”

Another distinctive characteristic of braid is it has a tendency to cut or saw through lily pad or hydrilla like a knife, further increasing the chances of landing a fish out of thick vegetation.

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Get Personal with Watercraft

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HERE IS NOTHING quite like skimming along the water’s surface in a sporty personal watercraft designed for just that purpose.

Whether you plan to ride alone or with a passenger or two, there are models designed for comfort and performance that will satisfy your every need.

There are things to consider as you narrow down the list, and – as with boats, RVs and other recreational products – your dealer can be the best source of information. After deciding how many people the vehicle will handle, the first consideration is whether you are going to purchase new or pre-owned. Most dealers carry both, and since they will be servicing the craft they can give you some history of the products on their lot. If you are planning to purchase used from a private party, schedule a pre-sale check up with the dealer you plan to use for maintenance and make sure that the craft is in good shape. If not, pass on the pur-

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BY LINDA WATER NELSON chase and don’t look back.

Whether you are buying new or used, there are a number of issues to tackle before making your choice: • Just like your car or truck, a personal watercraft has an engine at its heart. Depending upon your needs, check out fuel capacity, power and other performance factors and match them to your specific needs. These could include towing tubers and wakeboarders, transportation to less-accessible places or flat out having fun. Your dealer can give you all the pertinent info.

• Never consider a watercraft without testing the seating for comfort and control positions. Yes, there are fit issues and what is just right for you will differ from person to person. If you are not comfortable sitting on the seat on dry land, imagine how uncomfortable

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you will be spending time on the water.

• Try out the handlebar positions to make sure that there is a comfortable one for you. You need to be able to control the watercraft in a range of conditions. Try standing up and sitting down since you will be doing both and don’t compromise on this or you could be compromising on safety.

• Think about storage and amenities. This will tie in to how you plan to use your vehicle. If it is going to be the pack animal for taking things to your cabin or beach, buy accordingly.

• Consider your personal style. As personal watercraft have gained in popularity, manufacturers have grown to offer a range of styles. Think of motorcycles – whether you want a flashy one or something more staid, they are out there for your picking.

• Plan annual maintenance into your budget. Whether you do it purely for safety or maximized performance, your servicing dealer is your partner in this process. Choose him as wisely as you do your watercraft.

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WEATHER WATCH

Playing it Safe

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IND AND RAIN ARE the bane of boaters, trapping us on shore when we’d much rather be out there on the water.

When it comes to weather, of course, discretion is the better part of valor— decide to go out when there are 30 knot gusts and lightning strikes, and you will not be a happy camper. That said, if you cancel your day of fishing every time your friendly local schizophrenic weatherman claims there’s a risk, you may well never leave the dock.

Fortunately, you have gobs of options when it comes to making an educated decision about the weather. In fact, in the past couple of years those options have rapidly multiplied, thanks to the internet, apps, and new inventions.

Here are some of the latest and greatest ways to figure out what’s in store.

Weather Web

Getting on the web is a whole new experience these days, weather-wise.

Sure, you still have those old stand-bys, like weatherchannel.com, weatherunderground.com, and your local news. But some newer sites that focus purely on marine forecasting have taken it a step farther.

Buoyweather.com, for instance, includes not just forecasts but also realtime weather buoy data, wave charts, sea temperature and chlorophyll charts, and tide data. And since the forecasting is based around a chart (choose Texas from the Gulf States list, put the cursor over your specific area, and click), it’s incredibly easy to use. Another good one is Fishweather.com. In fact, I’ve become so accustomed to using this site that I almost never leave the dock without checking it first. Fishweather overlays wind forecasts over a detailed JAN

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NOAA chart, allowing you to choose the exact location and see all the wind, wave, and sea condition data. What’s even better is the ability to break down the forecasts into three hour increments.

For those of us who are sick and tired of NOAA’s overly-broad and unspecific marine forecasts, Fishweather is a handsdown winner.

Another nice thing about using the web for your weather is that you can continue checking it throughout the day, if you have a smart phone. Added bonus: you can set your phone to give you alerts, in case of deteriorating weather. Which leads us to...

APPlied Science

Since that smart phone is in your pocket, why not take full advantage of it? You can choose from countless weather apps these days, although you should recognize that some are a lot better than others. A handful of the most popular include Weatherbug, Weather Underground, The Weather Channel, Bluefin, and Lightning Finder. All have

their own strengths and weaknesses.

Here are some key things to look for when you choose which weather app is best for you. Obviously, you’ll want to make sure it covers the areas where you regularly go fishing and boating.

Remember, some apps only cover specific regions for free, and you’ll have to pay extra to get complete coverage.

Another important item is the availability of current Doppler radar images.

Many apps (or free versions of apps which can be upgraded for a fee) only provide text forecasts. These are usually based on those same NOAA predictions (sometimes they appear verbatim), which really doesn’t help much. On the other hand, real-time animated Doppler lets you see storms to track their direction and speed of travel. This is a great help in deciding when you need to head back to the dock.

Graphic lightning displays are another great feature to look for. Lightning is one of those things we boaters really want to avoid. So, seeing when and where strikes are occurring can help you make much more intelligent go/no-go decisions.

Some apps also include wind speed data, either in an updated or forecasted form. Generally speaking, forecasts don’t do you much good unless you’re on the water for an extended period of time. But real-time wind updates are great for helping you identify trends, the approach of fronts, or changes in the current conditions.

More Tools

Now, let’s say you don’t have a smart phone. Or more likely, you don’t get service in some of the areas you go boating.

There are still some weather tools you can utilize. The first and best is satellite Continued on Pg. 46 u

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weather, such as Sirius/XM satellite.

In most cases it can interface with your chartplotter/GPS, and put those weather maps and forecasts right up on the helm. This is a more expensive option than most others. A receiver costs between $100 and $500 depending on brand, and you’ll also have to pay a monthly access fee which ranges from about $10 to $50/month (depending on what level of service you choose). But that expense gets you everything those apps and web sites offer, and then some.

Finally, for the lightning-averse among us, you can also get a dedicated lightning detector. These don’t cost much ($50 to $100) and are simple to use. Just turn them on, and a series of blinking lights and/or tones will alert you to lightning strikes within range (which varies from unit to unit but covers at least 50 miles) as they take place. It also shows how far away they are.

Aside from all of these goodies and gadgets (technology be damned) you still have those old weather rules that mariners have lived by for centuries.

So, no matter what gear and goodies you may or may not have on board, always remember: —Red sky at night, sailor’s delight.

—Red sky in morning, sailors take warning.

—When grass is dry at morning light, look for rain before the night.

—Sound traveling far and wide, a stormy day it does betide.

—When wind blows from west, fish bite the best; when it blows from east, fish bite the least.

—When clouds look like rocks and towers, you should expect frequent showers.

—Seagulls, seagulls, sitting on sand, it’s never good weather when you’re on land.

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Information Technology for Boaters

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OATING IS AN ACTIVity that requires a certain amount of knowhow, which most of us pick up through experience. But, how’s someone who’s new to boating supposed to learn their port from their starboard? A good starting point is the boating safety class all new boaters are required to take.

Anyone born after 1993 must take this course before they operate a powerboat in the state of Texas, and anyone who’s not already very experienced on the water, regardless of their age, will be well-served by taking it. (Just go to www. boat-ed.com).

Of course, there’s plenty to learn beyond taking the minimum required safety course.

Fortunately, in this day and age there are also plenty of organizations and publications out there which are ready and willing to lend a hand.

One of the most helpful you’ll find is Discover Boating, a public awareness campaign managed by the NMMA (National Marine

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Manufacturer’s Association). Go to www.discoverboating.org, and you can get a free starter CD with gobs of information on boats and boating. You can also read up on different types of boats, what you need to know about owning and operating them, and financing and insuring boats—there’s even an online “spousal conversion kit” that might come in handy if your better half is still on the fence. You prefer reading things the old-fashioned way, on paper? Not a problem; visit the web site and you can sign up to get the

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Discover Boating Beginner’s Guide to boating, which is an excellent resource, through the mail.

The Take Me Fishing campaign, supported by the RBFF (Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation) is another resource you’ll find on the web which is chock-full of good info. And after you peruse the web site for advice, download the RBFF’s free Boat Ramps app onto your Apple or Android smartphone. It gives you the locations of and directions to over 35,000 boat ramps nationwide. You can search by zip code, city, or current location.

When researching specific boats, you can read boating magazine and web reviews, like those found on Fishgame. com. You can also watch video boat reviews, on sites like Boats.com. And there are many owner’s groups which have formed

BY LENNY RUDOW around specific manufacturers.

These often have web sites with message boards; many are full of good info about specific makes and models, but they should also be taken with a grain of salt, since anyone can comment on them and inaccurate information regularly surfaces on “open” message boards.

The ABA (American Boating Association, www.americanboating. org) is another web site with info that should be of interest to new boaters, especially in its Safety section. The same is true of many state agencies including TPWD (Texas Parks

and Wildlife, at http://www.tpwd.state. tx.us/). BoatUS (www.boatUS.com) has another web site that’s rich with information, although boaters should also be aware of the many other services this organization has to offer, including a printed magazine, special-interest divisions and publications like BoatUS Trailering and BoatUS Fishing, as well as many club membership benefits. Most folks, however, will look to BoatUS for their insurance and on-the-water towing needs.

If reading hard-copy is more your speed, grab a few copies of magazines like Texas Fish & Game, which have regular boating how-to columns and feature articles. And of course, you can always go to the ultimate authority on the water – the United States Coast Guard – for more information. Their web site has more than mere advice, too, with downloadable PDF float plans you can use, a video library, and boater’s handbook. However you choose to do your research and learn more about boating, the important thing is simply that you know enough to stay safe on the water. And with all of the resources freely available to you today, that should present no problem at all.

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