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13 Tips for Taking Kids Fishing

Will you be taking the kids fishing for the first time? Not sure how to plan for their fishing adventure? Check out the following 13 tips for a fun and memorable experience:

Make sure to pack plenty of snacks and cold drinks

Morning trips are best because the fish bite better and kids have more energy

Pick a sunny day with moderate temperatures

Leave YOUR fishing rod at home

Make sure to take plenty of breaks from fishing

Plan alternative activities to do if the weather turns bad or your child gets bored

Emphasize that fishing is fun, catching is a bonus

Choose a spot close to home

Make sure there are restrooms nearby

Keep the trip short (1-2 hours)

Remember you are taking the kids - they are not taking you

Take lots of pictures

Have fun

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10 Reasons to Take Kids Fishing

Are you planning a fishing trip for the kids? Fishing is fun for kids of all ages. Check out these ten reasons to take kids fishing:

Give your spouse the day off. "Happy wife, happy life."

Make it a game. You can quiz the kids on different lures, bait, and fish.

Spend quality time together. Taking the kids on fishing trips creates lasting memories that will last a lifetime.

Kids love being on or near the water.

Enhance their creativity. Take the kids to the bait shop and have them pick a fishing lure. You’ll be surprised at what uses they can come up with besides using it for catching fish.

Helps build character. Fishing is about patience. Untangling lines, losing your lures, or losing your catch. But it’s all worth it when you see your child smile and thank you for taking them fishing.

Remember to take a boater safety class and always carry a marine first aid kit. You never know when you’ll have to get a hook out of your finger or hand.

Kids enjoy being in the elements. They are willing to endure the heat, rain, and wind as long as they’re having a great time.

Great fishing tales. After a day of fishing, they’ll want to tell everyone about their day.

Keep the fishing trip all about them. As long as they’re catching or trying to catch fish, that’s all that really matters. Big or small, they’re just happy to be spending time with you.

What are some other benefits to taking the kids fishing?

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Tips for Winter Fishing

Do you enjoy fishing? Have you given winter fishing a try? Winter fishing provides anglers interesting challenges and opportunities for a great day of fishing. But before you head out, make sure your safety is your top priority. Here are some helpful winter fishing tips to keep you safe:

Never fish alone! If you happen to fall in the water or encounter symptoms of hypothermia, it’s best to have help around.

Carry spare clothing. In case you fall in the water, you can change into dry clothes.

Carry extra gloves. Your hands are going to get wet, so in order to prevent frostbite, put your hands in warm, dry gloves often. And if your gloves do get wet, you’ll have an extra pair to wear.

Carry a thermos with warm liquid, decaffeinated tea or soup. Caffeine can exaggerate the feelings of cold so it’s best to avoid drinking it. Also, you don’t want to shock your system if you’re already suffering from exposure, so don’t drink anything that’s beyond warm. Maintain a steady flow of warm hydration.

Keep blankets or sleeping bags in your backpack or car.

Carry a cell phone or radio in case you need to call for help.

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6 Winter Fishing Tips

Are you planning on going winter fishing? Winter can be a rewarding season of the year for anglers. And it's obvious that fishing during the winter is very different than fishing in the summer. So before heading out, check out the following tips for a safe winter fishing adventure.

Don't fish alone! If you happen to fall in the water or encounter symptoms of hypothermia, it’s best to have help around.

Carry spare clothing. In case you fall in the water, you'll have dry clothes to change into.

Carry extra gloves. Since you’re going to be fishing your hands will be getting wet. In order to prevent frostbite, put your hands in warm, dry gloves often. Avoid prolonged contact with the water and if your gloves do get wet, you’ll have an extra pair to put on.

Carry a thermos with some warm liquid, decaffeinated tea or soup. Caffeine can exaggerate the feelings of cold so it’s best to avoid drinking it. Also, you don’t want to shock your system if you’re already suffering from exposure, so don’t drink anything that’s beyond warm. Maintain a steady flow of warm hydration.

Keep blankets or sleeping bags in your backpack or car.

Always carry a cell phone or radio; in case you need to call for assistance.

What is hypothermia? Hypothermia is when your core body temperature drops and you lose heat faster than your body can replenish it.  Also note, it doesn’t have to be below freezing to experience hypothermia. During the summer, prolonged exposure to cold water can cause hypothermia.

What are the symptoms of hypothermia? Symptoms include feeling numb, dizzy, disoriented, slurred speech, shivering, and weakness.  If you or anyone experience any of these symptoms, keep calm. Lie down if possible; use the blankets to keep warm and sheltered from the elements. Call for medical assistance as soon as possible.

Ready for a day of winter fishing? What do you fish for during the winter months?

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AhoyCaptain Loyalty Rewards Program

First Time Shopper Reward:

We Want AhoyCaptain To Become Your First Choice For Boating Supplies!

Here's a Bonus Incentive To Come Back!

$5 off your next online purchase of $50 or more for "First-Time Shoppers"!

$10 off future online purchases for our loyal "Returning Customers"!

Coupons apply to all items - even Sale Items!*

Special Coupon Codes are sent by email immediately following checkout

Use your Special Coupon Code during your next online purchase at AhoyCaptain.com

First-Time Shopper Rewards apply to online purchases only

Not valid with any other Coupon offer

One coupon per purchase

Customer Loyalty Rewards:

We Appreciate Our Relationship - We Value Your Loyalty And Support and We Reward You For It!

$10 off future online purchases for our loyal "Returning Customers"!

Coupons apply to all items - even Sale Items!*

Special Coupon Codes are sent by email immediately following checkout

Use your Special Coupon Code during your next online purchase at AhoyCaptain.com

Loyalty Rewards apply to online purchases only

Not valid with any other Coupon offer

One coupon per purchase

* Excludes Closeout Items, Special Orders, Services or Gift Certificates

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We're at the United States Sailboat Show!

Join AhoyCaptain.com for the nation’s oldest and largest in-water boat show, the United States Sailboat Show, October 10-14, 2013. This show attracts more than 50,000 boating enthusiasts from around the world to historic Annapolis, Maryland. The Chesapeake Bay town is also home of the U.S. Naval Academy.

The Annapolis Boat Shows has launched a mobile app to easily purchase tickets and explore what the show has to offer. For more information visit www.usboat.com.

Make sure to stop by our Booth B12-B14 for all your must-have boating accessories!

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See Us At The 2013 US Powerboat Show!

Join us for the 2013 United States Powerboat Show, October 3-6, 2013. This show is the nation’s oldest and largest in-water powerboat exhibition.

The show with keep with its tradition of showcasing more than 350 new boats at the Annapolis City Dock in Annapolis Harbor. The show features everything from luxurious motor yachts and trawlers to high-performance boats and offshore fishing machines. Attendees will also find a wide selection of marine equipment, high-tech electronics, accessories, gear and related services such as boating lessons, rentals, insurance firms and lending institutions.

The Annapolis Boat Shows has launched a mobile app to purchase tickets and explore what the show has to offer. Download the app here, or for more information visit www.usboat.com or call 410-268-8828.

Stop by and visit us in Booth B2-B4 for all your must-have boating accessories!

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See Us At The Newport International Boat Show

We’re excited to be a part of the 43rd Annual Newport International Boat Show, September 12-15, 2013! One of the largest in-water boat shows in the country. Come see us in Booth A52-A54 and check out our huge selection of marine equipment and accessories for all your boating needs. You’ll also have a chance to see a couple new products:

Ultra Anchors - The SEXIEST anchor on the market!

Frigoboat - The MOST efficient refrigeration systems available!

Need tickets to the show? We’re giving away Free Tickets to the Newport International Boat Show with a purchase of $50 or more. We hope to see you there!

What boating accessories are you interested in?

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The Basics of Trailering Your Boat

Do you trailer your boat? The trailer is likely the second most essential component of boating. It’s important to take good care of your trailer. If your trailer happens to be out of commission, how are you getting your boat to the ramp? It can already be challenging enough to trailer your boat to the launch ramp. Here are some basics you need to know before heading out and trailering a boat.

Photo Credit: Discover Boating

Trailering Your Boat Checklist

Cross your trailer's safety chains when connecting to the vehicle.

Is your trailer tongue jack all the way up, or folded and locked? You don't want to hit a neighborhood safety bump with the wheel down.

Is every lug nut tight? They should be torqued to about 85 pound.

Have a secure tie-down strap for the back of the boat, or a pair of transom straps for a bigger boat.

Trailer tires carry higher pressure than cars; inflate to 50 PSI and watch for signs of wear.

Test your trailer brakes (if you have them) by pumping the brakes near your home, not on the highway.

Are those trailer lights working? Check the brake lights, taillights, and turn signals.

Make sure your trailer ball fits the trailer, seats snugly without debris inside the hitch, and the fastener pin to your vehicle’s tow hitch is secure.

Check local and state requirements regarding brakes and any additional equipment that may be required.

Another great tip is to keep a spare hub kit in your tow vehicle for emergency use. A complete kit includes a hub, bearing, seals, dust cap, lug nuts and bolts, and some grease.

Towing Capacity

Your vehicle is rated for a particular tow capacity, or a certain amount of weight it can stand to pull. Don't push the limits of your vehicle’s rating. Overworking your vehicle will only result in costly engine and/or transmission work. Also, make sure you're not comparing your boat's dry weight to your tow capacity. Dry weight refers to the boat's weight without any gear and gas. Add a few hundred pounds to the dry weight to give yourself some cushion. Even then, don't push the upper limits of the tow capacity of your vehicle.

How often do you check your boat trailer for wear and tear?

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Boat Safely

Are you ready to spend more time on the water this summer? We are pretty sure the answer is yes. It’s important to remember to boat responsibly to ensure not only your safety, but those of your passengers and others around you.

Did you know that according to the U.S. Coast Guard, 70 percent of boating accidents are a result of operator error. Let’s stay safe on the water by following the tips below:

Wear a life jacket.

A life jacket should be available at all times for every single person aboard and should be properly stored for easy access. It should fit properly. Remember to test jackets at least once a year for wear and buoyancy and toss the ones that are waterlogged or leaky.

Know the rules.

Knowing the nautical “rules of the road” are important. Always maintain a safe speed and keep a watchful eye on your surroundings.

Be aware of carbon monoxide.

Boat engines produce carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless and poisonous gas. Poor cabin ventilation and faulty equipment can contribute to the problem, but carbon monoxide emissions can even affect you on your boat’s swim platform and other areas near the engine where gases could build up. Install carbon monoxide detectors on your boat and be aware of the early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as headaches, nausea, weakness and irritated eyes.

Get your boat inspected.

Take advantage of a free Vessel Safety Check (VSC). A VSC is a free examination of your boat by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary to verify the presence and condition of all required safety equipment.

Take a boating safety course.

We recommend taking a boating safety course. There is no such thing as being too prepared. Boating safety courses are inexpensive and don’t take a lot of time to complete.

Drive safe.

Don’t drink and boat. Boating under the influence is not much different than driving under the influence. Leave the alcohol at the docks or designate another passenger to drive your boat. Help keep everyone aboard and those around you safe.

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Boating Safety

Do you enjoy spending time on the water? I think we know the answer to that. Especially with the long weekend coming up. Lots of boaters will be out enjoying time with family and friends on their boat. With boating comes great responsibility. 

A day on the water should be enjoyable for everyone. Safe boating you may think is pretty easy, but it does take some planning ahead of time and then some common sense once you're out on the water. We've got some boating safety tips to help keep you and your loved ones, plus those around you, safe while out on the water.

Wear Your Life Jacket

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) estimates that life jackets could save 80 percent of all boating fatalities. As the boat operator, you are responsible for the safety of your passengers. Accidents can happen, so make sure everyone on board is wearing their life jacket.

Prepare a Float Plan

Your float plan should include your vessel's information, all passengers, safety equipment on board, where and when you will be on the water, and when you plan on returning. In case of an accident or emergency, help can arrive faster if someone knows where you are and when you are expected back.

Check the Weather

Keep in mind that the weather can change very quickly once you're out on the water. This is one of the leading reasons boaters get into trouble. Check the weather before heading out and while out on the water. Be observant of rapidly changing conditions or listen to a radio.

Know How to Navigate Your Vessel

The USCG estimates that 70 percent of boating accidents are due to operator error. We recommend taking a boating safety course.

Also, keep an eye out for others out on the water at all times.

Tip: Remember "Red, Right, Returning" when navigating a channel. This means a boater should keep red markers to the right (starboard) side of the vessel when returning to the harbor. The green markers should be to your left (port) side of the vessel.

Don't Drink and Boat

According to the USCG, a third of all fatalities on the water are a direct result of boating under the influence (BUI). Leave the alcohol at the docks. Trust us, boating is fun, you won't need the alcohol!

Let us know if there are any other boating safety tips you follow. Enjoy a safe boating weekend!

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Introducing the PureUV – The World’s First LED-UV Water Sterilizer

We are excited to debut, the PureUV.  It is an ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) water sterilizing solution utilizing high output LED UV lights to sterilize and purify drinking water.  We're headed to the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show and will have it on display there.

Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) is a disinfection method that uses ultraviolet light to the kill harmful micro-organisms and pathogens. UVGI sterilization has been an accepted practice since the early 20th century and is used primarily for medical sanitation but increasingly in a variety of applications, such as food, air purification and to sterilize drinking water in holding facilities.

PureUV kills chlorine-resistant parasites such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia, harmful bacteria like E.Coli and viruses not visible to the naked eye. Micro-organisms, bacteria and viruses are rendered inactive without adding any potentially harmful chemicals to your drinking water.

PureUV is installed between the water tank and the pressure pump. Inside the sealed reaction chamber, water circulates through the coiled water column of medical grade hose where it is exposed to the LED UV light creating a deadly effect on micro-organisms, pathogens, viruses and molds.

PureUV was conceived as the next generation of water sterilization devices and was engineered with simplicity and reliability in mind. PureUV has redesigned the concept of a UV sterilization system the ground up. We have removed all of the glass components and the high energy consumption devices. PureUV is the first LED UV sterilization solution making it the most economical method of sterilizing your water available.

PureUV can be coupled with a pre-filter to remove those larger organisms that would otherwise pass through the UV system unaffected. The pre-filter also clarifies the water to improve light transmittance and therefore UV dose throughout the entire water column.

For features and dimensions click here.

We hope to see you at the show!

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2013 Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show

Join us at the 2013 Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show, Friday, April 26th through Sunday, April 28th. Stop by booths A31 and A32. 

We'll have all the products and accessories you'll need for this boating season. As boaters ourselves, we use most of the products we sell. Our friendly and knowledgeable sales team will help you select the best products for your specific needs. Hope to see you at the show!

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We're Headed to the Miami Boat Show!

We're headed down south for the Miami International Boat Show, Feb 14th through Feb 18th! It's the greatest boat show in the world. It's so big that is spans three locations. Boating enthusiasts can shop for boats, marine engines, electronics, accessories, and so much more. This year, we're inside the Miami Beach Convention Center and NOT in the Strictly Sail. We'll be waiting for you in Booth #4265. Some of the popular products we'll have on display are:

DIY Watermakers – watermakers for the rest of us!

Float-Tech Life Inflatable Jackets – comfortable, versatile jacket/vest

Sea-Tee Inflatable Rash Guards – the worlds first inflatable T-shirt

Nauta Flexible Tanks – Extend your range or replace leaking Water/Waste/Fuel tanks

Deck-Guard – Ultra-sonic Bird Repeller

NaviSafe – the only USCG approved battery operated LED navigation lights

But that's not all. We'll have lots more exciting products on display, too many to list. So make plans to visit us in booth #4265. See you at the show! What products are you most excited about seeing?

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Checking Your Boat After A Storm

The storm or hurricane has passed and as a boat owner, we understand you'll want to know if your boat has sustained any damages. Remember that risking your life in order to check on your boat, is not worth it.

Driving may not be the safest thing to do after a storm or hurricane has passed. Before you head out, make sure the water has receded, the roads are clear, and that the traffic signals are working. Please allow emergency personnel and utility workers do their job before you get on the road and add to the traffic.  Here are some steps for you to follow to help you safely checking your boat after a storm or hurricane:

Don’t drive or wade into flooded areas.

Don’t approach a boat if there are dangling or downed wires, or if you smell gas.

Don't climb in or on boats that have piled up together and don't go near ones that are dangling between land and water.

Inspect your boat thoroughly, document any damage and take pictures. Make sure to report your findings to your insurance company immediately. 

If there is damage, move only what is necessary in order to prevent further damage to your boat or nearby property.

Is your boat listing? Check the bilge from bow to stern for water. Inspect lockers and hatches for any damage.

Make sure the cleats have not loosened.

Inspect the hull for any damage that may have occurred.

Start the engines and generator to make sure everything works. If the engine and other machinery have been submerged or gotten wet, it should be “pickled” by flushing with fresh water and then filling with diesel fuel or kerosene.

Don’t move your boat unless it’s crucial to do so. Be extremely careful since storm surges may have reduced water depth or moved channel markers. So be sure to file a float plan.

If your boat is beached, safely take off what you can, remove as much equipment as possible to protect it from looters or vandals. You should tape two notices to the boat. The first notice should read, NO TRESPASSING. The second notice should alert authorities as to your name and how they can reach you.

Protect the boat from weather exposure, leaks, mildew, dry mud, etc. Regardless of the boat’s condition, it should be cleaned and dried out completely.

Remove all non-essential coverings and cushions if they are wet. You don't want to add mold to your list of woes.

If your boat is sunk or must be moved by a salvage company, call your insurance company and have them assist you with the arrangements.

Please don’t sign any contracts for hauling, salvaging, or restoration without checking with your insurance company first. You also don’t want to get involved with scammers that tell you they’ll “work with you” to cover your deductible because that is insurance fraud!

When in doubt, contact your insurance company with any questions or concerns. Always remember, that your life is more important than checking on your boat.

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Fish With Kids

If you love fishing, share that passion with kids. Fishing together will give you the opportunity to bond, teach them a new sport, and create lasting memories they will treasure forever.

Getting kids involved from the get-go is key. Kids love to feel included and teaching them a sense of responsibility can go a long way. Take into consideration how old they are, and give them simple tasks they can be responsible for. It all starts even before you head out the door. Make a list of supplies you will need for your fishing trip. This list should include sunblock, insect repellent, hats, sunglasses, extra clothes, water shoes, personal flotation devices, first aid kit, simple tackle and bait. Also, don’t forget to bring along a cooler filled with snacks and plenty of liquids. Kids tend to get hungrier more often adults. Go down the checklist and have the kids make sure you’ve got everything.  Also, don’t forget to bring along your fishing license.

Choose a location that you know will result in fishing success. Nothing is more disappointing than not catching or seeing any fish. With that being said, also teach kids that fishing is not only about catching fish but trying to catch fish. Be patient with them and give them lots of encouragement. Give them frequent breaks so that they don’t get bored or discouraged. Let them play in the water, throw stones, or any other form of free play to keep them busy.

Teaching kids how to fish is also important. Keep it simple by teaching them the three basic techniques:

Tying a Fisherman’s Knot

Insert the fishing line through the “eye” of the hook.  Pull out about 10 inches of line. Use those extra inches of line and wrap it around the primary fishing line about five times.  Gather the end of the 10 inch line and loop through the eye of the hook once again.

Baiting Your Hook

Instead of threading the worm through the center, it is best to thread the worm lengthwise on to your hook. This will help your worm stay on your hook and prevent a fish from coming and stealing worms off your hook.

Casting

It’s easier for kids to cast over their shoulders. Have them hold down the reel button with their thumb. Get ready to cast the line. As they cast the line have them let go of the button. Reel in the slack line. You want the line tight so you can feel when a fish is tugging on it.

It is best if you show kids how to do these techniques before they actually try to do them alone. Practicing before heading out would be a good idea.

Also, in teaching kids how to fish, take the opportunity to teach them about the safety skills involved in fishing. Such as not playing with the hook and being safe in and around water. It will be essential in ensuring a great fishing experience.

The idea is to make fishing fun. Make it an experience that they will want to look forward to repeating time and time again. Remember, these are memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

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Basic Tools to Keep Aboard

It’s always best to be prepared when traveling on your boat. Carrying a first aid kit is a must, but carrying a tool kit with you is also a good decision. You never know when you might need to repair a canvas or tighten a bolt. First, make sure you have a waterproof marine tool box to keep your tools organized and handy, but also to protect your tools from water damage.

Now, what’s in your tool kit? Here are a few basic tools you should keep in your tool kit onboard at all times.

Canvas Snap Tool: Easily align and fasten inside and outside snaps. Ideal for unsnapping snaps without damaging the canvas. (pictured below)

Duct Tape: Because everyone knows that Duct Tape can fix anything! Electrical tape is another good thing to keep handy.

Manuals: Chances are, if you need your tool kit, you’ll also need your manual – whether for your engine, plumbing, ventilation, or just your boat in general.  You should keep these manuals in your tool box with your tools so that you don’t have to search for them when you truly need them. Make sure you keep these in a large plastic zip lock bag so that they don’t get wet.

Wrenches: Make sure you have several different sizes with you if you aren’t quite sure of the exact sizes that you’ll need.

Screwdrivers: Pick up one of those handy dandy 11-in-1 screwdriver sets at your local hardware store – you’ll thank yourself later.

Canvas Repair Kit: This kit should include small pieces of canvas, needles and string. Learn more about canvas.

Super glue: Because just like Duct Tape, it can fix anything when you’re in a pickle. 

Multi-tool: Having a small multi-functional tool on board, such as Swiss army knife, can definitely come in handy.  Many of these tools include small screw drivers, scissors, knives of all sizes, etc.

Socket set: If you have the room for a complete set, perfect. If not, find out the sizes you need and keep them on board at all times.

Spare Flashlight: with fresh batteries. Make sure your flashlight is waterproof and floats in case of an emergency.

There are several other things to consider keeping on board in your tool kit (depending on the size of your boat and add-on equipment) such as extra fuses, impellers, spare keys, wire cutters, spare electrical wiring, etc.

Make sure you keep your tool kit in a place where you can easily access it, especially in a time of emergency. If you have to use something in your tool kit (such as a spare part) or if something in your tool kit breaks, be sure to replace it as soon as you get back to dock. Remember, keep calm and carry a tool kit. Happy boating!