Upgrading Your Boat: Why Replacement Parts Pay Off

Posted on by Brian Speier

Why Choose Replacement Parts Over Repairs for Your Boat

You love getting out on the water, but sometimes your trusty boat feels like it’s showing its age. Maybe the engine is sputtering more often or the upholstery is starting to tear. You’ve considered upgrading to a new boat, but that’s a big investment and your current one still has a lot of life left. The solution? Replacement boat parts. Upgrading key components of your boat can make it feel brand new again at a fraction of the cost. New seats, a tune-up for the engine, a fresh coat of paint – small fixes like these go a long way. Your boat deserves some TLC, and replacement parts are an easy way to get back to enjoying hassle-free days on the lake or sea. Keep your boat in ship shape this season with some strategic upgrades. Your wallet and your crew will thank you.

Top Reasons to Upgrade With New Replacement Boat Parts

Upgrading key components of your boat with replacement parts just makes sense. Here are a few reasons why: 

Lower Maintenance 

Replacement parts are built to today’s standards using modern materials and technology. They simply last longer and require less maintenance than older parts. You’ll spend less time and money on repairs, tune-ups, and part replacements in the long run. 

Improved Performance

New propellers, engines, navigation equipment, and other upgrades can significantly improve your boat’s performance, handling, and efficiency. You’ll get better gas mileage, faster acceleration, tighter turning, and more. Who doesn’t want a faster, smoother ride?

Enhanced Safety

Modern replacement parts also boost safety. New propellers and engines reduce risks of overheating, fires or stalling. Updated navigation, autopilot, and wireless equipment provide more accurate information to avoid collisions or getting lost at sea. For peace of mind, safety upgrades are well worth it. 

Higher Resale Value 

If you do decide to sell your boat someday, replacement parts will increase its resale value. Buyers will appreciate a well-maintained boat with newer, high-performing parts and will likely offer a higher price. You’ll recover more of your investment, so replacement parts really do pay off in the long run. 

Upgrading with replacement parts may cost more upfront, but the benefits to your boating experience and your boat’s value over time make it a smart choice. For the do-it-yourselfer, it’s a chance to learn new skills and take pride in maximizing your boat’s potential. When it comes to your boat, only the best replacement parts will do!

Upgrading your boat with new replacement parts has so many benefits. 

Cost Savings

Replacing old, failing parts now can help avoid expensive repairs down the road. Things like a new bilge pump, fuel filter, or battery can give you peace of mind and help your boat run more efficiently. 

Increased Safety

Nothing is more important than the safety of you and your passengers.  Replacing aging life jackets, fire extinguishers, anchors, and other critical gear gives you confidence in emergency situations.  New non-skid deck surfaces prevent slipping to avoid falls, while redesigned railings and grab bars provide extra security. 

Higher Resale Value

If you ever want to sell or trade in your boat, upgrading key components will make it much more appealing and valuable to potential buyers.  They’ll appreciate a well-maintained boat with high-quality, reliable parts ready for adventure on the open water. 

Upgrading your boat parts pays dividends both now and down the road.  For savings, performance, safety and resale value, replacement parts are an investment that’s well worth the cost.  Your boat and all who sail in her will be glad you did.

SUPs for Sale: A Buyer’s Guide to Stand Up Paddle Boards

Posted on by Brian Speier

What to Look for When Buying a SUP

Have you been wondering why stand up paddle boarding has become such a popular watersport lately? Maybe you’ve seen people out on the lake or ocean riding the waves and thought it looked like a fun new challenge. Well, you’re right – it is fun, and a great workout too. As with any new hobby, getting started can be overwhelming. There are so many options for SUPs for sale, how do you know which one is right for you? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get out on the water and experience the thrill of SUPing for yourself. By the end, you’ll be paddling with confidence in no time.

When shopping for a SUP, there are a few things to keep in mind. 

Board Size

First, consider how you’ll use your SUP. Smaller boards, under 10 feet, are nimble but harder to balance on. Longer boards, over 12 feet, are more stable but slower to maneuver. For all-around use, a board 10 to 12 feet long is a good size. 

Board Type

The two most common are inflatable SUPs and hard boards. Hard boards are more rigid but heavier, while inflatables are lighter and more portable but may feel less stable. Inflatables can work great for beginners or those on a budget.

Construction 

Look for a SUP made of durable materials like military-grade PVC for inflatables or epoxy resin and fiberglass for hard boards. These provide rigidity and durability. Avoid cheap materials like PVC tarpaulin.

Accessories

You’ll want a high-quality paddle, leash, pump, and PFD. A leash keeps your board close in case you fall off, and a PFD provides safety. For inflatables, a dual-action hand pump makes inflation easier.

Price 

SUPs range from $500 to $2,000 or more for premium brands. As with most gear, you get what you pay for. If you’re just starting out, look for a reputable brand like ISLE Surf & SUP or SereneLife for under $1,000.

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll find a SUP perfect for your needs before you know it. Now get out on the water and enjoy!

When it comes to buying a quality SUP online, you have a few solid options. 

REI 

REI is a popular outdoor gear and clothing retailer that offers a nice selection of inflatable and hard SUPs.  They frequently have sales and markdowns on last season’s models. REI also has a generous return policy, so you can test out your new board and return it if it’s not the right fit. 

Backcountry 

Backcountry is another highly reputable retailer that carries brands like Bote, Hala, Red Paddle Co., and more.  They offer free shipping on most items and have a price match guarantee.  Backcountry’s customer service is also top-notch if you have any issues with your order.  

Evo 

For the biggest selection of cutting-edge SUPs, check out Evo.  They carry all the latest models from leading brands like Starboard, SIC Maui, and NRS.  Evo frequently has sales with up to 60% off, so you may be able to score a sweet deal on a premium board.  They also offer financing options and free shipping on most products. 

In the end, you can’t go wrong with any of these retailers.  Do some comparison shopping, check out user reviews, and go with the site that has the best deals on high-quality boards that match your needs.  With the right board from a reputable brand, you’ll be out enjoying your favorite waterway in no time!

Tips for Outdoor Decks in Maine

Posted on by Brian Speier

If you are considering a deck or dock construction project, you will want to build your new outdoor structure to last. Also, you are likely hoping to make the new deck as maintenance-free as possible. If your deck or dock is going to be built in a more extreme climate, such as Maine, then there are added considerations in order to ensure durability.

Let’s first address issues for all deck and dock construction, regardless of location:

Test Out the Size

Before you settle on a size for a deck, This Old House suggests that you carefully decide upon the dimensions of your outdoor surface. Stakes and twine allow you to try to move around in the area and see if it really is large enough. If you already have your outdoor furniture, you can place it within your staked out area and see if you, your family and your guests have enough elbow room to move around freely.

Codes and Permits

You will need to apply for a building permit to build a new deck or dock in Maine. For example, in Portland, Maine, you will be looking at a 20-day permit approval process. This Old House suggests that you also need to think about the requirements that you may have to meet for your homeowners’ association. They may have aesthetic requirements that go above and beyond building a simple, structurally-sound deck.

The Surface and Type of Material is Key

You are fighting the elements of saltwater spray, snow, sun, hail and rain. You will need the very best materials that are highly resistant to rotting, warping and degradation. You also need materials that are termite resistant. Another key factor is that you won’t want to choose a material for your deck surface that will become dangerously slippery under snow or frost conditions. This has a huge impact on the type of material you will choose. Finally, the material you choose will dictate how much work you will have to do in terms of deck maintenance each year.

According to Decks & Docks Lumber Company, options for dock construction materials in Maine include:

Pressure-Treated Wood: This option works for docks only if it meets regulatory requirements. The chemicals used to treat the wood can harm drinking water quality and aquatic life. You will need to seal and stain the wood yearly, which can also harm the environment.

Composites: This is deck material created by wood encased in plastic. It has a range of costs, from relatively inexpensive to a bit expensive. It is important to buy composites that have smaller wood particles encased fully in the plastic in order to avoid warping. It does not need to be sealed and does not harm the environment. The only real drawback is that it will get hot in the blazing sun of summer.

Modified Wood: This is softwood that has been thermally modified with heat and steam to make it highly durable and more water-resistant. It does not have the drawbacks of either pressure-treated wood or composites because it does not need to be stained or treated, it won’t harm the environment, it looks natural and it doesn’t get hot in the sun.

Frost Heave and Water Level Fluctuations

The Maine Lakes Society recommends that if you are building a dock and the water level changes drastically throughout the season, you need to build a floating dock. With minor water level fluctuations, you can build a dock that is suspended from the lake surface by pipes. A floating dock that is portable and that you only leave in the water for no more than seven months each year will exempt you from needing a Natural Resources Protection Act permit.

Your local county building inspector will be able to provide the guidelines for the proper depth of footings for a land-based deck to avoid the problems of frost heave.

Leave Room to Shovel the Snow Off

The question is, “Would you rather shovel the snow over the top of the deck, or would you rather shovel it under the lower railing?” You will have to pay attention to code while opting for room to push that snow right from the deck surface and over the edge.

Hide the Unsightly Stuff Underneath

If you have enough room under your deck, you can give it a lattice skirt and hide your garden hose and extra woodpile tarps under the deck. A big caveat is to use lattice because you want the deck to breathe from the underside, especially if you use wood. This prevents premature rotting. Also, don’t put so much underneath that you prevent airflow. Finally, don’t put the woodpile for the wood stove under the deck, especially if it is abutted to your house or made of wood because you will have created a termite magnet

Douglas Knight New Canaan

Sixteen of the Best Destinations to Travel to If You Enjoy Fishing

Posted on by Brian Speier

Douglas Knight New Canaan

There are incredible fishing destinations all over the world. The types of fishing, locations, and adventures are extremely varied and a lot of fun.

Key West, Florida

Charters are available throughout Key West and the variety of fish is amazing. Deep sea excursions and shoreline fishing run all year so there is never a wrong time to take a trip. There is everything from blue marlin to yellowfin tuna swimming in the waters.

Iztapa, Guatemala

The waters of Iztapa, Guatemala are the place to find Pacific sailfish. Peak fishing runs from November through April. During April, May, and June the blue marlin run is fantastic. From January through June schools of yellowfin tuna fill the waters.

Great Abaco, Bahamas

Great Abaco is located at the northern tip of the Bahamas. The angling opportunities are superior in the flats, the reefs, and the sea. April and May is the peak season for white marlin and blue marlin arrives in July. Black-fin and yellowfin tuna migrate annually through the blue waters. For the opinion of an expert please visit Douglas Knight New Canaan.

Venice, Louisiana

Redfish anglers will never run out of opportunities in Venice, Louisiana. This is also an excellent location for flounders, black drum and spotted seatrout. There is also an abundance of marches in the bayous.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The Caribbean is the place to find marlins. Between April and July, Punta Cana provides the game boats. Sailfish also make an appearance occasionally. Most fishers catch tuna, wahoo and billfish strikes by the dozens.

Belize

Belize is an incomparable fishing experience and an island paradise. The tarpon, permit, and bonefish are in abundance. The slams are thrilling all year long. Late fall and midsummer provide an opportunity for bigger tarpon but the fishing is sensational all year.

Panama

Panama is the place to catch the really big fish. The reefs, wild coastline, and offshore seamounts make Panama one of the finest fishing places on the globe. Zane Grey Bank offers massive schools of tuna, and some wahoo and Mahi. Fishing is a year-round opportunity but the rainy season makes the area extremely wet.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Anglers can catch their fill right offshore with blue-water fishing. The area offers Dorado, sailfish, wahoo and some marlin. Cabo San Lucas has opportunities all year but the abundance is May through June.

Graham Island

Graham Island is south of Alaska near Canada’s northern tip. The islands of Langara and Graham are some of the most popular fishing grounds in the North Pacific. The fishing resorts are spectacular and offer abundant schools of salmon. Massive Pacific halibut and chinooks also frequent the resorts.

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

The best fishing captains in the world perfected their current techniques in the waters of Puntarenas. The abundance of fish is year round but the best months are January through April and November and December. The waters are always filled with yellowfin tuna and roosterfish make an appearance from June through September. For some interesting ideas please visit Douglas Knight New Canaan.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun, Mexico is the home of massive sailfish from March through May. There are also opportunities for fly-fishing and light-tackle. The waters are known for black-fin tuna, dolphin fish, and wahoo near the reefs and banks. The flats around Isla Blanca provide the opportunity to catch seatrout, bonefish and baby tarpon.

Jardines de la Reina, Cuba

Jardines de la Reina is comprised of numerous islets providing access to the southern coast of Cuba. Anglers have a choice of fly-fishing or tackle and lodge on yachts. The offerings include permit, cubera snapper, tarpon, and bonefish.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The waters here are dominated by striped marlins. Anglers can get up close to wahoo, dolphin fish, massive marlins and yellowfin tuna. The fishing is excellent all year but February through the middle of June are when the striped marlin run.

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Prince Edward Island is in Eastern Canada. In 1797 the largest bluefin tuna was caught in these waters. There is a choice of whole fish, chunked or live bait. It is important to realize this is a catch and release fishery.

Cairns, Australia

The variety of marine life species in the Australian Great Barrier Reef is massive. Seventy percent of the black marlin catches in the world come from the waters of Lizard Island and the Cairns. September through December is the peak time for black marlin. Big bait is required for the rainbow runners, mackerel and tuna.

Montauk, New York

Thus area is filled with light-tackle species. The months of September and October represent the fishing season. The stripes are lured by bay anchovies near the shoreline. Expect to find weakfish, fluke and bluefish little tunny in these waters.

How To Prepare For The Fishing Experience at Kalu Yala

Posted on by Brian Speier

Kalu Yala, a new and sustainable village nestled along the Panamanian river and rainforest, features many fun and eye-opening experiences that have all led to having a more interesting experience. In several of the programs, you get firsthand learning experiences from the local Panamanians who specialize in a multitude of fields. Expert locals from the outdoor recreation institution will share their knowledge of the wild to shape your understanding of outdoor skills. What are some of the things prepare for with your fishing experience in Kalu Yala?

Prepare for the Unforgettable

A Kalu Yala bad experience is the antithesis of what happens at this off-the-grid location. Your fishing experience will have you trudging through the lush, green jungles of Panama. The fish you catch don’t come any fresher, and as you wrestle them ashore, you will have the option to eat them fresh at the table. Ever gone spearfishing in the Pacora River? The truth about Kalu Yala is how you will get to do all those things and more. You will also hike an orchard, explore a gigantic bamboo stand and eat fresh tamarindo. When you compare Panama to Costa Rica, the country experiences a little more heat than its friendly neighbor, which makes the fresh-caught fish even tastier as you slap them down on the table. In fact, a Kalu Yala bad experience is almost unheard of because this destination has a little something for everyone.

Real-World Application and Learning

One of the biggest rules about the Kalu Yala becomes about taking real-world situations and giving them a practical application. It’s one of the first things that you will learn as you come here. Like with many of the countries that experience warm rain, Panama has a distinctive smell because of the rain, but it never smells bad. It’s just a distinct aroma, and once you have come to Panama, you learn how to recognize this smell easily. Every fisherman from any corner of the globe can appreciate the fishing experience he finds in Kalu Yala because the fish taste particularly fresh. In addition, they have been known to put up legendary fights. You can tailor your trip to the Kalu Yala to fit with your interests.

The Driven Community of Dreamers

In this community, you have a group of dreamers and idealists who have congregated in one space to foster an environment of learning. This is the magic of sublime living at its finest. Spearfishing in Kalu Yala becomes the modern man’s escape from the stresses of everyday living. In total, Kalu Yala has 80 residents and 50 of them are interns.

What Kind of Fish Can You Catch Here?

One of the most common fish you will catch here is Tilapias. Fishing here can be a blast, and you have the most dramatic scenery in the background. You feel like you have entered into paradise when you come to Kalu Yala, and there’s much good to see here. A lot of people come here because they have heard how good the fishing is. On top of the fishing, you can dig big holes to create what’s known as an aquaculture pond. It sits integrated with the greenhouse. One person said they have helped to make it big enough that there’s now seven Tilapia of a full size in the pond. What’s the key idea behind this? First, fish taste delicious. Second, whatever fish eat, they will excrete from the body and into the water. This water will then be used as a fertilizer for young plants. Outside the Tilapias, you will also find a crustacean here known as a Prawn.

All-Around Learning Experience

As you go fishing, you have the opportunity to observe some of the local wildlife living in their natural habitat. This is actually how the aquaculture pond project had been created was through the observation of biology. Ever enjoyed the sights of a crystalline mountain river? It doesn’t get much more interesting than what you will see here in Kalu Yala. The simplistic act of living here never gets boring. After a day of fishing, perhaps you want to cool off from the harsh Panamanian heat and leap into the river. You can also swing back in a hammock and take a relaxing midday siesta. What you choose to do in Kalu Yala is not half so important as how much fun you have while you’re doing it.

The truth about Kalu Yala is that it’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else. The students and interns who come here have all dedicated themselves to learning more about sustainable living. The great thing about when you’re not fishing is how you can connect on a deep level with intellectually stimulating individuals who will provoke deeper thinking and passionate learning. It’s an experience that everyone should have.

Brian Speier Freeport Shares 5 Tips for the Winter Angler

Posted on by Brian Speier

Whether you’re an experienced Maine winter angler or new to it, tips from experienced anglers help more than fish tales. Here are five tips to haul in a bigger winter catch.

1. What to Wear
Your success fly fishing requires patience, curious fish and the right gear. Your gear needs to include the proper attire, so you can last longer in cold, especially knee deep or more in frigid water. Lay out your winter wear the night before, preferably by your heater. You’ll wake up to toasty, warm fishing wear. Here’s the best outfit to wear for long lasting warmth.

  • a hat,
  • fingerless gloves,
  • layer a couple of wool or synthetic fiber long-sleeved thick t-shirts,
  • top with a wool sweater if it is really cold,
  • fleece-lined pants,
  • two pairs of fleece socks,
  • rubber soled boots with studded bottoms,
  • rubber waders.

Avoid felt soled boots in winter. Always turn your waders inside out to dry, so any condensation on the interior dries completely before you wear them again. If you fish from a boat, cover the studded sole boots with a crocs styled protective cover called “Over Boot Stud Covers,” so you don’t damage the flooring. Keep some hand warmers in your pocket to pluck out and thaw your fingers, so you can bring in that big catch.

2. Tow the (Right) Line
Line choice matters more in winter. You’ll need to fish sub-surface, so try a 5′ sink-tip line, such as the Orvis “Streamer Stripper.” Rio and Scientific Angler also make good lines for Maine winter fishing. This versatile line lets you fish in shallows to about a depth of 10 feet with no adjustments except highsticking and cast angle.

3. Mind Your Flies
Expect to lose your flies. It happens. Learn to tie a simple knot that you can manage even with numb fingers. Some swear by the Orvis knot. Try smaller flies in winter. Flies to try:

  • black and gold stone,
  • grey or tan dry size 22 or smaller,
  • midge style (Orvis example).

4. Fishy Behavior
Fish enjoy finding a comfortable environment in winter, too. They favor staying close to the banks in winter. They tend toward slow water, so they don’t have to fight current (a waste of their energy). The energy fish willingly expend in winter also means you need to closely watch your line because it’ll experience more subtle hits than warmer seasons. If your indicator budges at all, set the hook.

5. Little Icebergs
While you watch your line, also watch the waters. Maine in winter means freezing or below freezing temperatures. The water isn’t wearing your toasty get up and freezes. Watch for ice. Large blocks or chunks of ice break off from banks or ice shelves and float down river. This happens more often when you fish down river from a dam. The ice can knock you off your feet into the icy water. This puts you at risk for hypothermia. Watch for ice. Always carry a dry change of clothes with you. Store them in your vehicle. If you do hit the water, stop fishing immediately. Go get out of the wet clothing and visit the emergency room. Your body temperature can quickly drop to a dangerous level. Always fish with a buddy for fun amd safety. The buddy system can save your life.

Prepare yourself for a cold winter’s day and enjoy a sizzling pan of seared fish that evening. Before you hit the water, review the state fishing regulations, local information and obtain an appropriate license. Also, bookmark the state’s fish identity guide. That way, you know what to throw back. Not every species is legal to catch in winter. Stay warm and eat well.

5 Tips To Successful Portland Fly Fishing

Posted on by Brian Speier

Runoff is a depressing season of the year among Portland fishers and this comes with lower returns from their trade of fishing. During such a period, you need to have some unique skills that can allow you to increase your effectiveness. Fly fishing is an activity that calls for special skills and knowledge to reduce the wastage people get into while doing it. To help you achieve your goals while fly fishing in Portland, here are simple tips you should adhere to.

User brighter or darker colored flies

One of the things that could distract you while fishing is the color of the water. Sometimes when the water is too dirty, it could take you longer to get your first catch, so it would be advisable to choose darker flies in this case. This is because fish is able to see the silhouette of the dark fly easily than when you use a bright specimen. Again, in off-colored water, fish is more likely to understand the brighter colored flies, so whether you are using nymphs or streamers, apply this rule and you will have success at the end of the day.

Fish worms

Many people in Portland underestimate a fish worm, but in most cases it works. Worms offer a good amount of protein that fish will not ignore, so if you find using insects slow, you could try out fish worms. The most recommended option in this case would be the San Juan worms, which work well and have a high rate of success.

Keep track of patterns

As a fly fisher, you should record details after every fishing trip. This information can be used in the future and will help you to remember subtle details and patterns that come up during each fishing day. If you fish on some water bodies consistently, this method is likely to work since you will be in a position to predict what to expect so you can prepare adequately in advance. Having knowledge about a certain water body also gives you the privilege of applying specific techniques that are bound to work, which saves you time besides increasing your chances of success.

Tying effective knots

The other subtle yet effective strategy you could apply is tying effective knots. The biggest failure when fishing comes as a result of poorly tying the knots, and this is something you can avoid with the right knot tying techniques. To tie effective knots, it is advisable to moisten the knot before you pull the line tight and make sure to do this slowly. Also watch for some weak frays or abrasion that could render your knots incapable to hold a lot of weight. The best way to know if the knot is perfect is to test it with a strong pull.

Practice casting

To make a perfect cast, you need to have the highest levels of accuracy and this only comes with practice and learning. You could even practice against a wall in your compound. Doing so each day will improve your skills in fly fishing.