Free Boating Tips

So you are about to start fishing. First things first, you need to bait your hook. Do you know the correct way to bait you hook? Below are some tips that will help you attract and catch more fish by simply baiting your hook better.

Firstly, you need to use sharp hooks. Buy new hooks frequently and replace your old ones. If you keep your hook on the line for a long period of time you should sand the point to keep it nice and sharp. Try to buy the best hooks you can (if you buy the cheapest you may save a few dollars but in the long run is it worth it?).

Hooks vary in size, shape and color so go for the hook that is best for the fish you are targeting. If you’re not sure, ask the people in your local fishing store. Some fish are supposedly attracted to red hooks (some sand varieties of fish target bloodworms and can be attracted to the red color of the hook) but a plain silver hook will usually do.

So you are ready to bait your hook. It sounds very easy but are you really baiting your hook correctly? Below are some common bait varieties and suggested ways to apply them to your hook.

1) Shrimp (prawn) should be put on the hook tail first and so the body of the shrimp curls up into the shape of the hook. Most people bait shrimp the other way (head first) but this will cause the shrimp to fall off more easily. Try to keep the hook entirely in the shrimp when threading through. Most fish species don’t mind if the shell is left on. Some people believe in de-shelling the shrimp but this takes time and often makes them soggy and they may fall off the hook easier. You can take the head off the shrimp as this often makes the shrimp too big to fish with if left on (and as an added bonus you can add the heads of the shrimps to your burley bucket to attract more fish)

2) Octopus should be baited using the tentacles foremost so they cover the hook. As with the prawn the octopus should thread over the hook to disguise it.

3) Squid is a good bait as it is hardy, easy to place on a hook and is hard for nibbling fish to nibble off. Just thread the squid over the hook and once again try to disguise the hook with the bait. Also try to use the softer parts of the squid body as some fish may not like the harder parts found near the head.

4) White bait, Mulie or any other small fish really needs to be hooked with a gang of hooks (at least 3 hooks in a row) otherwise they simply slide off the hook.

So next time you are baiting your hook, take the time to try to disguise your hook and make sure that the bait sticks on your hook securely. This will help you catch more fish and save you time as you will not have to keep replacing your bait.

The best and easiest maintenance for your boat is to simply get out on your boat an use it. Problems often start after long periods where the boat has not been used!

Obviously there will be times when you are unable to use your boat. Winter is probably the time where you will get the least use out of your boat. But in summer when the weather is good, you should get out on your boat as much as possible.

Using your boat frequently will prevent seals from drying out and keep all parts of your boat nice and lubricated. Your fuel tanks will not fill up with condensation as you will regularly be using old fuel and replacing it with new fuel. Problems occur most of the time when boats are neglected for long periods of time.

So what do you do if you must leave your boat for a long period of time? Firstly, consider turning the boats engine over at least once a month. Make sure the engine runs for about 10 minutes minimum. If you have an outboard be careful to ensure a water supply is pumped into the motor to prevent damage. You should also always watch this water supply as hoses can become kinked and kids can turn them off which can result in extensive damage to your motor in seconds.

Try running all other devices in your boat to keep them in a good state. This includes all elecrtical devices, pulleys, steering, winches and cables. A quick flick of a switch once a month may save costly repairs down the track.

If you have an outboard motor and plan to not use it for an extended period of time, be sure the motor is trimmed down to ensure parts of the motor stay lubricated. If the boat is kept outdoors be sure to purchase a good quality boat cover to keep it out of the elements.

Basic maintenance indeed, but these small tips could save you big money repairs.  

Many people will drive their boat both on and off a trailer. I personally do not think it is a good idea. Below are my main reasons why you should never drive your boat either on or off your trailer.

If you drive your boat off the trailer, you are putting stress on your engine as soon as you get into the water. Most people allow their cars a few seconds to warm up, so why wouldn’t you do the same for your boat? Most engines will require substantial revving to give them enough power to slide a boat off the back of a trailer. This revving causes stress on the motor and will most likely decrease it’s life span considerably.

Driving a boat onto a trailer is just as bad. Although the engine would have warmed up, you are likely to stir up the sand with your propellor. This stirring up of the sand means the water that flows into your engine is also going to be mucky. Sand and other debris will enter your motor which can build up and cause damage.

When riding your boat onto your trailer you are also more likely to run aground, or worse still hit your propellor into something. Riding the boat onto your trailer also takes a fare bit of skill and opens up the possibility of a multitude of accidents.

So what is the best way to get your boat too and from your trailer? Use the winch! If the effort of manually winching isn’t for you, consider upgrading to an electric winch. It will ultimately be better for your boat, therefore giving you more years of trouble free boating. 

Looking for a way to save money on you new luxury boat? Chartering your boat out could be the option you are looking for!

These days there are professionals who you can hire to charter out your boat for you. They will take care of all the work. They will take clients out, look after your boat, organize advertising and help with the paper work.

So why would you want to charter your own boat out?

Firstly, chartering your boat out will obviously bring in money. The extra money you will receive will help you pay off your boat sooner. With this in mind, if you are in the process of looking for a boat perhaps you can spend a little bit more knowing you will get your money back from chartering it in the future.

Chartering your boat out can also lead to healthy tax deductions. The cost to use and maintain your vessel for chartering can often be claimed as a tax deduction. Speak with your accountant to find out more.

Of course there are some negative aspects to boat chartering. The main problem with chartering out your boat will be ware and tear. Accidents will always happen, but hopefully they will only be minor scratches and perhaps a few dents. Remember, most of this wear and tear can be easily fixed, so don’t let it put you off from chartering your boat.

The final problem may be that your boat will be being used when you wan’t to be using it. This problem can’t really be managed, you may have to just grin and bare it. 

Do you want to learn how to operate a sailing craft? Below are some tips on where to gain the experience and knowledge to learn how to sail a yacht. 

One of the best ways to start to learn how to sail is to join your local sailing club. The sailing club is a great place to meet friendly people, see all different types of boats in action and to apply for any vacancies that open up.

Being part of a sailing club will help you determine what sort of sailing you like (either racing or cruising) and it will help you determine what sort of boat you will be after.

Another option to learn how to sail is to enrol in a sailing school. These courses may cost a bit more than joining a sailing club, but can offer you 2 week full time or monthly part time courses to learn how to sail. 

A final way to learn how to sail is to join a friend that you know who sails. Not everyone is so lucky to have such a friend so if not consider the first two options instead.

Sailing is both a great skill and an art. Proper training will ensure both your safety and enjoyment during this wonderful sport.

The rules of the road (or the rules of the water) for boaters are recognized throughout the world. Below are some rules that you must know as a captain (skipper) before getting out on the water.

Firstly, a captain must always be in charge of the boat and be on the lookout at all times. It is the captains responsibility to ensure the welfare of all passengers on board. A captain should never be under the influence of any substances and should always be vigilant.

When approaching a boat head on, always alter course to the right (or starboard) to pass the other vessel. If both boats do this no collision will occur. If the boat you are approaching starts veering to the wrong side, slow down and try to avoid the oncoming vessel.

When overtaking a boat, you can go round either side. The main rule here is to overtake at a reasonable speed so as not to cause wake or chop for the other vessel. Always pass at a safe distance away from the boat. If your boat is being passed, maintain current speed and direction.

If a boat is crossing your path, the boat to the right hand side (starboard) has right of way. If you are approaching a boat that is about to cross your path on the right, you can either slow down or turn to the right (starboard) to go behind the crossing boat.

There are some sound signals used by larger ships and ferries to indicate the actions that are about to take. One short blast means i am altering my course to the right (starboard). Two short blasts means i am altering my course to the left (port). Three short blasts indicated i am going to go backwards (astern). And finally five short blasts indicates i am unsure what you are doing. This last five blasts basically means you should get out of the way. These above signals are universally adopted so you should know them especially if you are an offshore boater or go out in busy shipping channels or ports.

Some basic rules are that power should give way to sail. Power boats should also give way to commercial vessels and any vessel undertaking work such as dredging. 

There is also a little jingle to help remember the rules on the water. Look right, turn right and give way to the right.

If everyone adheres to these simple rules, collisions at sea will become a thing of the past. Make sure you know these rules and remember to always keep a lookout when boating.

When starting up your boats engines, you should have a step by step understanding of what to do. Below is a list of 7 procedures to safely and successfully start your vessels engines. 

1) Firstly and most obviously ensure you have enough gasoline to start the engines and for your voyage. Ensure gas lines are connected and open and that the gas is primed and ready to go. 

2) Check the engine space for gasoline vapors. Do a sniff test for any gas vapor that might be present. Do not start the engines until this smell has disappeared. If you have an inboard engine be sure to engage the blowers to remove any smell of gas. 

3) Ensure oil and coolant levels are within the acceptable range. If the levels are outside the parameters, fill them up immediately. Open the raw water sea cocks if fitted to your boat.

4) Now you are ready for the starting process. Firstly ensure the main switch and kill switches are in the correct positions for staring.

5) Examine the water you are in and decide if it safe for the propellor to start. Make sure no individuals are in the water near the propellor and make sure the water is deep enough.

6) Start the motor. If it doesn’t start within a few seconds stop, wait 15-30 seconds and try again. Do not turn the engine over for more than 10 seconds at a time as you will drain the battery.

7) Do a quick test to make sure the motor is running correctly. Did the motor start first time? Is the water pump streaming a constant flow of water? Is their smoke blowing? Be sure to check these things as it will give you an idea regarding the condition of the motor.

Once these 7 checks and tips are done you can be on your way. Be sure to do these checks each time you start your boats engines. Have a safe and fun trip!

If you go fishing from your boat it can be both an exhilerating and rewarding experience. You can however learn many things that will help you catch more fish next time you are out on your boat. The art of catching fish is great fun and everyone always wants to catch the biggest fish and heaps of them. So have a read to learn some tricks and secrets to help you catch more next time you go boating.

It is always essential to fish with the correct equipment and gear from your boat. You should purchase some high quality rods and reels but be sure to steer clear from the 12 foot beach rods. You should purchase particular rods targeted at the type of fishing you will be doing but as a general rule the standard egg beater is acceptable for most kinds of fishing. Before you get out there, you should also own some good quality sinkers, fishing line, hooks, swivels, tackle box and a sharp knife.

The bait you use should be aimed towards the species you will be trying to catch. Always buy bait that looks fresh and be sure to keep it chilled until you need to use it. Always try to purchase a few different kinds of bait so you have some variety when you are out on the water. Depending on which fish you are chasing you could also carry along some lures. It is best to be prepared and bring along a variety of baits and lures as once you are out on the water it is pretty hard to get any more.

Approach your fishing location as slowly as possible. This will prevent the fish from swimming off as soon as you get there. Once you reach the fishing spot throw some berley in straight away to attract the fish over to your boat. Get your lines prepared with as small a sinker as possible and have rigs setup to target the species you are after.

After this is done you will ready to get going and start catching some fish. As soon as you start fishing you should feel closely for any bites and stay patient. If you get a few bites you should strike back on the rod or reel to try to set the hook into the fishes mouth. If the immediate striking doesn’t work try doing it later to see what works best. Every species of fish strike a piece of bait at different times so experiment and see what works best for you.

If you have got a fish on your line it is time to bring it in. You will need to keep the line tight at all times to prevent the fish from spitting the hook out and swimming away. If you are fishing with a rod, pull the rod back and then proceed to reel in as the rod falls back down to parallel with the water. Never point the rod upwards more than 45 degrees or it may break.

A fish should be reeled in slowly and constantly so take your time and savour the experience. Using a net will help you get the fish out of the water. Most fish get lost when you try to pull them onboard so a net will prevent these losses from happening. Pliers will also help you to remove the hook from the fish. If you do not intend to keep the fish that you have just caught it is vital to get it back into the water as quickly as possible.

All fish are coated with oil so minimal handling ensures they have maximum chance of survival. The above is a good guide of catching fish but before you catch them you need to find them. You should look for darker water, with a ranging array of ocean bottom. Using a fish finder or GPS will also help you find steep cliffs and drop off’s where fish like to locate. Give each location you try a good go but if you have no luck try changing spots.

Try looking for where other boats are fishing and try next to them but remember to keep an acceptable distance away from their exact spot. So keep these fishing tips in your head and get out there and have a go. Keep reading and asking questions to find out as much about fishing as you can. All good fishermen and women learned how to fish from somewhere so don’t be afraid to keep learning more.

When operating your vessel at night there are a few essential tips you must know. Be sure to read these tips and your local areas laws and regulations to ensure safe nigh time boating. 

Firstly, make sure you always exhibit the correct lights from your boat. For most size boats and in most areas these are a red light on your port or left side, a green light on your starboard or right side and a clear or white light on the stern or rear of the boat. Make sure these lights are all working before you leave and also ensure they are unobstructed.

You also need to make sure these lights are showing during the period of sunset to sunrise. You need to show these lights whilst either underway or at anchor. It is also a good idea to display these lights during daytime periods of limited visibility such as during fog or rain conditions.

It is also essential that you try to maintain your night vision. After a few minutes in the dark your eyes will slowly adjust and your vision will improve in the dark. Try to minimize any lighting on your own vessel to prevent disturbing this vision. You should also show restraint in the use of spotlights so you respect the night vision of others.

Finally, it is important to proceed with caution during night time boating. Many pylons, buoys and markers are unlit so you need to always proceed at a slow and safe speed. 

So with these tips and your local laws and regulations in mind, get out there and give night time boating a go.

Lifejackets are one of the most important safety items to have on your boat. So how come sometimes they fail? Well it’s not the lifejackets that fail it is the people who have either hidden them so they are inaccessible, not purchased as many as required or purchased the wrong sizes who are at fault. Below is a list of hints and tips that will increase the safety of your boat.

First and foremost, always put your lifejackets in a location that is accessible. There are countless boats such as large cruisers that look all posh and neat but have hidden the lifejackets in a spot that would be completely unreachable in an emergency. Try to keep the lifejackets on deck and make sure everyone knows both where to find them and how to use them.

Another important factor is to make sure each person on board has access to a lifejacket. You should have at least one life jacket for every person on board. It is the captain’s responsibility to ensure this and no vessel should ever depart that does not have this.

It is also important to ensure that the life jackets are also the correct size and standard for the people using them. Adult lifejackets are no use to a child and vice versa. In this respect it is advantageous to have extra lifejackets on board to accommodate for different people you have on board.

When to put on a life jacket is also an important issue. Individuals who are poor swimmers go boating alone, children and elderly and people going out in high seas should always wear a lifejacket when on board a boat. Even veteran boaters should put on a lifejacket at the first sign of distress. It is not good to be struggling trying to put on your jacket whilst the boat is taking on water! Be prepared and get the lifejacket on at the first sign of trouble.

Life jackets should also be checked and replaced regularly. Life jackets like all equipment on board a boat will age and deteriorate in time. Check seams for wear and tear and replace as required.

Also remember to choose the correct life jacket for the situations you may encounter. Some jackets are designed for water skiers and jet skiers whilst others are purely for boating. If you are not certain be sure to ask the sale representative as to which lifejacket is best for you.