Don't miss these great wakeboarding spots around the US!
Wakeboarders can build their ability to complete complex jumps, add a number of rotations to their spins and master challenging skills such as inverts. But it’s important to find a spot in which the conditions are just right for an exceptional wakeboarding experience. Here, we’ll take a look at 10 great wakeboarding spots you won’t want to miss.
1. LAKE BOMOSEEN
Lake Bomoseen is the largest lake in Vermont and is located in the towns of Castleton and Hubbardston in Rutland County. In addition to the exceptional wakeboarding environment, the area is known for its spectacular natural scenery. The lake is situated on the border of the Taconic Mountains and has a shoreline of cottages and restaurants, which help drive interest across the lake community.
2. LAKE POWELL
Lake Powell, spanning across Utah and Arizona, is the largest manmade lake in the country. The lake receives over 2 million visitors each year, many of whom arrive ready to test their wakeboards on the smooth and open waters.
3. LAKE HAVASU
Lake Havasu in Arizona features an environment of contrasting sandstone reds and deep lake blues. The spot is becoming immensely popular with both amateur and experienced wakeboarders, and so boarders visiting Lake Havasu should book their place and try to find time during nonpeak hours to visit.
4. WAIALUA RIVER
Waialua River in Hawaii comprises a 20mile stretch of the waterway on the east coast of Kauai. The river is one of the only rivers in Hawaii that can be easily navigated and so throughout the summertime, the location is a hotbed of activity for watersports lovers.
5. TABLE ROCK LAKE
Rated as one of Missouri’s most visited watersports spots by TripAdvisor, Table Rock Lake offers the opportunity to wakeboard without the need for a wetsuit, due to its temperate waters.
6. LAKE ALLATOONA
Lake Allatoona, 35 miles northwest of Atlanta, is one of the few areas across the country in which each local wakeboarding school is operated by worldclass wakeboarders. This means that international competitions are often hosted in the area as professionals prefer the region for its calm waters and comfortable boarding conditions.
7. DALE HOLLOW LAKE
Dale Hollow Lake is rated as one of the cleanest lakes across the country, which is ideal for those wakeboarders used to getting a mouth full of water when trying out the latest moves. The lake is also hidden away on the border between Kentucky and Northern Tennessee, allowing wakeboarders to avoid the crowds.
8. SUWANNEE RIVER
Suwannee River, located between Florida and Georgia, has been a longtime host of the Rockstar Wakestate Pro Tour. Its calm waters and serene environment ensure the conditions are perfect for honing complex moves.
9. LAKE AUSTIN
Lake Austin is the location in which the locals beat the heat and shred the calm lake waters throughout the summer months. It’s an area in which boarders are likely to find a more social space to party while enjoying a unique wakeboarding experience.
10. COLORADO RIVER
Considered one of the premier watersports spots in the U.S., the Colorado River combines calm waters with numerous wakes for optimal wakeboarding conditions. It’s the ultimate destination for those looking to test their mettle and improve their skills this season!
Get ready for that upcoming summer trip by speaking with our trusted experts today. We’re now offering affordable pricing on the leading wakeboard vessels. Call today to learn how you can maximize your wakeboarding experiences!
Enthusiasts across the U.S. are seeking out the latest boating gadgets to enhance their
experiences on the water. And manufacturers are now responding to the demand with
technology that supports and complements the boater’s lifestyle. Our specialists have been
analyzing the 2016 marketplace carefully in recent weeks, and in this latest post, we highlight
five of the musthave boating gadgets for 2016.
1. Fish Finder
For the fisherman looking to improve the efficiency of his fishing on the lake this year, why not
choose from the leading fish finder tools available in the current marketplace? Fish finders work
by reflecting pulses of sound energy, showing the pond bed and the underwater debris around
the boat. Some of the latest tools can even provide details on water temperature. One of the
leading options is the Garmin EchoMAP 73SV CHIRP Fishfinder, which features SideVu
technology to present a crystal clear picture of all water areas through the use of sonar.
2. Weather Meters
The latest weather meter technology is designed to collect realtime information on the weather
conditions near the boat’s location. They can be plugged into a cell phone to provide boaters
with a considerable range of information, from wind speed to storm potential in the area. A
leading example of the top wind meters available on the current market is the WeatherFlow
Weather Meter, which plugs into the user’s cell phone audio jack and provides full data on the
heat index, wind chill, crosswinds, wind direction and other weather conditions.
3. Power Chargers
For the ultimate in safety when boating on the lake, boaters must keep a highperformance
power charger on deck at all times. Power chargers can be used to efficiently restart the boat
when it loses power on the water. A highly rated option within 2016 marketplace is the Nature
Power LithiumIon Charger and Jumpstarter, which has been engineered with a full digital
display for intuitive performance. The product works to restart cell phones via two USB ports, as
well as boat engines. It includes overvoltage protection to help boat owners avoid damaging
their engine.
4. Solar Powered Lanterns
To maintain optimal safety while boating on the lake this year, boat owners must maintain
superior visibility. The leading solar powered lanterns are ideal for this level of water safety. In
2016, one of the primary market options is the Luci Light, which is only the size of a DVD when
in storage, but when inflated offers an exceptionally bright light that can be used in an
emergency or as a backup anchor light for those evenings on the lake.
5. Waterproof Tablets
For the business person constantly connected to his work teams, waterproof mobile products
are an essential addition to the boating experience. The latest waterproof tablets can now be
submerged in water while retaining their seamless connection. A highlyrated option is the Sony
Xperia Z4, which features a crystal clear display and a waterproof body to support both the
entertainment and business needs of the avid boater.
Upgrade your boating experiences this coming year with the latest gadgets and accessories
highlighted in this post. To learn more about the newest market products, speak with our trusted
team today.
Boating and technology may seem to be strange bedfellows since so many people are drawn to the boating lifestyle as a way to get away from the distractions of the outside world and the stresses of everyday life. Nonetheless, technological advances are happening every day that makes it easier and easier to live the boating lifestyle, even for people who don’t own their own boats! Among these handy innovations are the #boatingapps for Apple and Android devices, and while many are designed to keep you and your family safer in one way or another, they are all designed to make your boating life more convenient.
The Different Types of Apps
There are many different kinds of mobile apps available these days, and they can be divided into several subcategories. The majority of boating apps out there are dedicated to important things like weather, navigation, and trip planning. However, there are also boating reference apps, safety, apps devoted to fishing, and apps that can connect you with help if you become lost or need assistance when you're out of cell phone range. Some apps are free, others you pay for, and others require a subscription, but if you're an avid boater, many of these are well worth the cost.
The Best Boating Apps
Type Name Availability Cost
Weather
Planning
Marine Weather Apple and Android Free
FishWeather Apple and Android Free
NOAA Buoy and Tide Apple and Android Free
NOAA Weather Apple and Android Free
Boat Ramps Apple and Android Free
GetMyBoat Apple and Android Free
Jeppesen Plan2Nav Apple and Android Free
Safety and
Reference
Navionics Apple and Android By region
Practical Encyclopedia of Boating Apple and Android $18.99
Nautical Flags and FlagBag Apple and Android Free
USCG Boat Essentials Apple and Android Free
BoatUS Apple and Android Free
Grog’s Animated Knots Apple and Android $4.99
Fishing My Fishing Advisor Apple and Android $4.99
Weather Apps
These apps provide information from sources like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, exclusive weather stations, and thousands of other weather stations from around the world. On top of weather forecast information, they also provide data about tides, buoys, sea temperatures, wind speeds and directions, and wave speeds, heights, and directions.
Planning Apps
There are a number of tripplanning apps out there that all focus on different things, including helping you locate boat ramps and equipment rentals, providing charts, and helping with navigation.
Safety and Reference Apps
These include a great deal of information for boaters, including general boating knowledge, Coast Guard safety checklists, a database of nautical signal flags and their meanings, water tower listings, and even illustrated diagrams for tying different knots.
Fishing Apps
Many of the fishing apps are concerned with when and where to catch the best fish, so they focus on weather patterns, temperatures, astronomical conditions, and even the different types of lures to use to catch the fish you're looking for. Advancing technology out in the world means that there's an everincreasing amount of sophisticated boating tech and gadgets available to boaters, mariners, and anglers.
With mobile apps, you can take vital knowledge with you everywhere you go, because the safety apps can prevent trouble and save your skin if you get stuck, the planning and weather apps provide charts, navigational information, and forecasts, and the fishing apps can even direct you to the best waters. As long as you download the apps you need before you go, #boatingapps can make the boating lifestyle more organized and safer than ever before.
Boating Kids Just Plain Rock.
Boating isn't just a fantastic way to get away from the world and relax because it’s also a family-friendly activity that can teach kids a great deal about the world. In fact, there are many aspects of the boating lifestyle that can enrich a child’s education.
For instance, #kidswhoboat don’t just learn about boating, but also about navigation, safety, mechanics, and knots. Moreover, boating teaches a love of the outdoors, appreciation for nature, and everyday survival skills that are quickly being lost in a world where children spend most of their time inside glued to electronic devices.
BENEFITS OF BOATING
Bringing kids into the boating lifestyle is an important rite for boating families because boating has personal, educational, and behavioral benefits for children and adults alike. When you learn to boat, you also learn about steering, mechanics, and maneuvering a large vehicle. Not only will this give children a sense of responsibility, but it will also come in handy when it’s time for them to start driving cars. Boating also involves navigation, reading maps and charts, using compasses and GPS guidance, and understanding communications, and all of these can be lifesaving skills. Similarly, knowing how to tie different knots, handle rope, and make and repair rope are other boating skills that also have applications in other areas of life, and they have the unique ability to teach patience, which can be one of the hardest lessons to impart.
AGE CONSIDERATIONS AND SAFETY
There are a few things to consider when you're thinking about introducing your kids to the boating lifestyle, including their age and their ability to understand and appreciate safety concerns. Boating can be dangerous, so kids who are becoming involved must have the proper training and supervision to proceed safely. For younger children, they can learn simpler things like boating terminology, how to put on safety vests, how to swim, and where everything goes. As the children get older, they can be given more responsibilities and learn more adult safety lessons, including emergency protocols, steering dingies or the #kidsboat, and the workings of the vessel. Want to learn more about boat safety while riding with children? Check out our blog with safety tips to help you have a great time on the water.
ACTIVITIES TO INTRODUCE KIDS TO THE LIFESTYLE
If you're worried that your kids might be afraid of the water, get sea sick, or get bored, there are a few ways you can ease them into the boating lifestyle to make it a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone. This is important for many reasons, including that if you live the boating lifestyle and want to nurture this same passion in your children, you should introduce them to boating in the right way. For one thing, keep the first few excursions short, and make sure the shore is always in sight. This will alleviate fear and anxiety, and make it easier to get home in case of illness or panic. Also, you can try incorporating boating with a combined introduction to other fun activities, such as:
● Sailing
● Fishing
● Kayaking and canoeing
● Boardsports and water skiing
● Tubing
The boating lifestyle is a familyoriented way of living, appreciating nature, seeing the world from a new perspective, and spending time together on the water. It’s never too early to get your kids involved, and even babies can participate by getting comfortable in the water and getting used to wearing personal floatation devices. As a hobby or lifestyle, boating can teach kids about the world, mechanics, navigation, knot-tying, and other skills, but it can also help them learn to be responsible, to be patient, to appreciate a new passion, and to value time with the family.
There are things we love to hate about fishing.
All #fishermen worth their salt know there's no feeling in the world better than making a good catch, and they're willing to endure the early mornings, cold feet, wet clothes, and pricked fingers just for the chance to feel the thrill of reeling that baby in. But while fishing may seem like a relaxing and quiet pastime with no stresses or headaches, there are definitely a few struggles that every dedicated fisherman has encountered at one time or another.
1. WHEN SOMEONE POACHES YOUR FAVORITE SPOT
Most anglers have their favorite spot: that place where everything feels right and the fish are always biting. So there's nothing worse than planning a fishing trip, getting a head start on the day, and getting to your best place only to find that someone else is already there.
2. BEING UP BEFORE THE SUN
Fishing takes dedication, and to get the best catch; you have to be the early bird. That means being awake and out the door before your family is up, before the sun is up, and often before your favorite coffee place is even open.
3. GETTING WET WHEN YOU DON'T MEAN TO
Whether you slip on a rock and fall in, have to dive in to loosen your anchor, or have to retrieve your best lure, sometimes going fishing means getting wet when you didn’t want to.
4. CATCHING YOURSELF INSTEAD OF A FISH
Fishing hooks are funny things, and they can have a tendency to end up in places they aren't meant to go. Like in fingers. Or cheeks. And other body parts from which they need to be carefully pried out. Whether you reach into your tackle box and grab the wrong end of a hook or cast in a strange way and catch yourself instead of a fish, most anglers have a few #funnyfisherman stories about hooking themselves or a friend.
5. LOSING A FISH OR GOING HOME EMPTY HANDED
When it comes to fishing, the ultimate goal is to have something to take home at the end of the day, and sometimes you have to fight for it. So there's nothing worse than going home without having caught a single fish or fighting a line and having that darned #funnyfish slip off at the last second. Actually, there is one thing that’s worse: fighting to reel in a fish only to have it stolen by a shark, alligator, or another fish.
6. WHEN THE ELEMENTS DON'T COOPERATE
Most anglers will fight through any element nature can throw at them (that’s why ice fishing exists), but sometimes the weather just refuses to cooperate. Sometimes this means it rains during your entire weeklong fishing trip, now and then it means getting sunburnt in places you didn’t know existed, and other times it means watching the wind blow your line a mile away from where you wanted to cast.
7. BEING BOATLESS
Whether your boat is in the shop or you just don’t have one, not being able to get out on the open water to find that perfect fishing spot is a real drag. When you’re a #fisherman without a boat, you're limited to wading along shorelines, fishing off piers, and casting off docks, and while these may still be some good hunting grounds, nothing beats casting your line off the back of a boat in the middle of a quiet lake.
Fishing demands patience, dedication, and perseverance on a level that many people don’t have. The struggles of being a fisherman require you to look past unnaturally early starts to the day, expose yourself to all kinds of extreme weather, and sometimes even go home with some holes in your body. But for the angler, these things are more than worth it, because, at the end of the day, nothing gets rid of your worries like a good catch.
Share your Best Fishing Photos and Win!
FREE FISHING IN VERMONT DURING NATIONAL FISHING WEEK!
National Fishing and Boating Week is a time of celebration that highlights the importance of recreational boating and fishing. In 2016, the event will take place during June 4-12 2016. This time is dedicated to all activities and discussions pertaining to fishing and boating. During this week, many states offer a day of free fishing where you can take your boat out on the water and fish, free of charge. In Vermont this day of free fishing is on Saturday the 11th of June and in New York it’s later in the month on the weekend of 25th and 26th. This week of celebration is a wonderful opportunity for many to exercise their fishing skills, enjoy the summer weather, interact with nature and most importantly have fun with family and friends. You could meet up with an old fishing buddy or bring your child out on the water to show them some cool tricks you’ve mastered over the years. If you are bringing your kids onboard for the first time, skim through our article on boat safety tips for children.
ENTER OUR FISHING CONTEST USING #HOOKEDonBOMO TO WIN BIG!
We at Woodard Marine are especially excited for this time of year as we celebrate these activities that we are so passionate about, with both seasoned fisherman and newcomers. In order to spread the joy of fishing and boating, we are hosting a Photo Contest where we want you to upload photos of you and your loved ones in categories ranging from biggest fish to best memory when fishing. Winners of this Photo Contest will receive prizes ranging from a motor to a fish finder. We encourage you to take a few minutes out of your day to upload some photos like these:
As you get ready to go out on the water, be sure to read our article on boating emergencies and how to prevent them.
If you happen to be on Lake Bomoseen next week, come stop by Woodard Marine to check out the variety of services we offer from boat rentals, replacement parts, servicing to a showcase of some of the newest and coolest boats on the dock.
Happy Fishing Week!
The Boating Lifestyle is Why We Do What We Do. It's Everything to us.
Living the boating lifestyle isn't about nautical outfits. It’s not about deck shoes either or owning fancy things. In fact, it’s not even about owning a boat, and it certainly isn't about having the latest toys. The boating lifestyle is about time well spent. It’s about quality time with good people. It’s about being on the open waters with the people you love. And it’s all about freedom, sharing good times, making memories, and feeling the warm breeze in your hair and the cool mist on your face. If that sounds like the kind of life you want, then #bomolife and the boating lifestyle is for you.
BOATING TIME IS FAMILY TIME
Boating means much more than getting on the water in a boat: it’s an opportunity for you and your family to experience the world in a new way and see things from a new perspective. Imagine waking up before dawn, getting the kids ready, and sharing a quiet breakfast before heading out in the morning to catch the biggest fish. Or think about how much fun it could be to spend a sunny day towing friends and family around as they learn to water ski. And don’t forget about swimming in new waters, learning to dive, or teaching the kids to sail. The boating lifestyle is all about families spending time together, learning together, and bonding. And doesn’t that sound better than a weekend in front of the TV and arguing about who’s had too much screen time?
ENJOYABLE EDUCATION THROUGH BOATING
While it may not be the first thing to come to mind, one great thing about the boating lifestyle is the opportunity it affords for education. This includes basic skills and useful arts that are slowly being lost, such as:
● Knot tying
● Driving and mechanics
● Navigation and map reading
● Water safety
● Fishing, cooking and basic survival skills
And while there's nothing wrong with a family weekend together in the city, think about how wonderful it would be not to sit in traffic, to be surrounded by nature, and to be away from all the distractions of everyday life. Not only that, but boating is also a great way to meet new people, spend time with old friends in new ways, and learn new things about yourself. Nothing says stress relief like a quiet sail or zip around the lake, and the boating lifestyle is all about appreciating the simple things in life. There's nothing quite like getting out on your boat with family and friends, and on top of providing some excellent opportunities to teach kids new life skills and helpful lessons, boating is also a wonderful way to build relationships and strengthen family ties. If you like the sounds of sunsets on the water, quality family time without the distractions of modern life, and a slower pace of living, come on out to Woodard Marine and see what #bomolife and the boating lifestyle could look like for your family.
Already living the boating lifestyle? Maybe it's time to upgrade.
Are You Ready for the New Bayliner Element XR7?
Bayliner has been making remarkable boats for about 60 years, and the Element XR7 is no exception. The latest Element model has a sleek, modern design that offers all the benefits of a fiberglass boat with the room, luxury, and stability of a pontoon boat. The Bayliner Element XR7 completely captures everything that’s great about the boating lifestyle—the vessel is comfortable and roomy, it’s designed to host plenty of people, it’s equipped for safety and relaxation, and it was built with a smart design that maximizes the fun you can have out on the water.
BEST FEATURES OF THE ELEMENT XR7
Perhaps one of the best things about the Element XR7 is its capacity: the boat can comfortably fit up to 16 passengers, meaning you and 15 of your closest friends and family can go for a ride in luxury, and make memories to last a lifetime on this boat. The large deck is laid out with plush loungestyle seating in the forward and aft sections of the boat. And when you do have a full house, the enclosed head in the starboard console offers total privacy, unlike the traditional folding canvas curtain used on most pontoons. And to make water access and aquatic activities more accessible, there are folding ladders both forward and aft, a portside boarding gate, and swim steps.
While the Element XR7 comes standard with a 150horsepower FourStroke motor from Mercury, there’s also the option to upgrade to Mercury’s 200horsepower Verado motor. But even with the additional power and higher speeds, each seat on the boat still feels safe and secure. The Element XR7 is also equipped with infloor storage and two large ski lockers, giving you easy, safe, and convenient places to store all your gear, even when you're traveling at top speeds.
A UNIQUE STYLE AND DESIGN
One of the first things you notice about the Element XR7 is that it’s a pontoonstyle without the full pontoon design. That’s because the new Element was built with the proprietary Mhull design that’s more like a trimaran than a pontoon, giving the boat more stability, better tracking, and more predictability in rough and calm waters. What's more, the fiberglass construction also makes the Element XR7 better for tow and wake sports like water skiing and wakeboarding, and makes the boat better suited for saltwater cruising. Safety was also a primary consideration in the design of the new Element, so the helm console was built on a raised platform that sits five inches higher than the deck, giving the driver a better line of sight and more headroom.
Starting at just $39,999, the Element XR7 is a luxury vessel at an economy price, especially when you consider the innovation and ingenuity that went into the design. The standard features in the latest Element are often pricey addons in other boats because this craft was built for luxury and comfort as much as it was for fun on the water. Bayliner has succeeded in seamlessly merging all the best qualities of a pontoon with a fiberglass boat. The resulting Element XR7 is a recreational vessel that offers room, comfort, stability, storage, and safety unlike anything else on the market, and that encapsulates the essence of the boating lifestyle so well that you'll wonder how you ever got along without it.
This boat is so awesome, Woodard Marine is taking custom orders as we speak!
The Boating Lifestyle is Always #Trending.
If you’re like most people enjoying the boating lifestyle, you like to keep up with the latest trends, even if you don’t end up implementing them. Being “in the know” is one way to fully immerse yourself in the culture of boating, which is what having fun on the water is all about. Naturally, the boating world sees countless innovations every year, and different activities and products are always falling in and out of favor. Since you like to keep up to date, here are five recent trends that you may want to consider.
CUSTOMIZED BOAT INTERIORS
Whether your boat is used or brand spanking new, having an interior that speaks to your unique personality will really allow you to unwind and be yourself out on the water. Most boating enthusiasts consider their boat a home away from home, and everyone is customizing their homes these days, so why not your boat, too? The number of retired baby boomers getting out on the water and stretching out the distance with longer cruises is on the increase, which is one big reason customizing interiors have become so popular. Some of the most common interior boat renos take place in the galley, but window upgrades, new lighting, hardwood floors and new upholstery are also standard.
GADGETS, GADGETS EVERYWHERE
It’s no surprise that the makers of smartphones would include marine apps in their vast array of offerings. Navigational gadgets are always popular, but you can also find apps and gadgets that cover a broad range of other topics. These include tracking your mileage and fuel usage, chart plotting, weather prediction, budgeting for boating and even sharing the best fishing locations with friends. Make sure you don’t take too long to get onboard, though because new apps are being added all the time.
REDISCOVER THE PONTOON
To some boaters, pontoons are ugly and stand out on the water like an unsightly blemish, but that hasn’t stopped them from making a comeback. Many younger boaters are falling in love with the pontoon for its versatility and great value. If you are new to the boating lifestyle, a pontoon may be the ideal introductory vessel. Larger pontoons can accommodate doubledigit numbers of friends and family, making them perfect for summer entertaining.
SUP- THE STANDUP PADDLEBOARD
Stand Up Paddleboards, also known as SUPs, have been gaining in popularity for a handful of years, but they just keep winning new fans every single summer. SUP boards provide a great workout for your core muscles, improve balance, strength, and they are relatively easy to learn. They also have a modest price tag when compared to similar water products. SUP boarding isn’t as intimidating either, meaning more people are willing to give it a try. There’s no question that trends in the boating lifestyle will continue to change and evolve, and luckily there will always be something for everyone who loves spending time on the water.
Everyone can wakeboard.
Wakeboarding is one of the fastestgrowing water sports in the past 20 years. This sport is getting more popular by the day because of different factors that can make it more advanced or simple depending on age and experience of the wakeboarder. Regardless of your experience or skill level, there are a few basics that should always be followed to have fun and get the most out of your wakeboarding experience.
Here are five practical tips for getting up and staying up on a wakeboard:
1. ARE YOU GOOFY OR REGULAR FOOTED?
This doesn’t always coincide with being left or right handed. Being goofy footed means you rely mostly on your left foot for balance while regular relies mostly on the right. In wakeboarding, the foot you rely on goes in front. If you use a wakeboard set up for someone with different footing than yourself, you will feel like you can’t keep your balance and will most likely fall. To find out which foot is your dominant one, think about the foot you use to kick a ball or the one that catches you when you lose your balance.
2. DON'T STAND UP RIGHT AWAY
While it might seem counterintuitive, the physical act of standing up is something you want to avoid at first on a wakeboard. Before the boat takes off, position your lower body as if you are sitting in a chair. At this point, the board is perpendicular to the rope. As you feel the machine move forward and start to decrease the amount of slack on your rope, get ready and let the boat start to pull you. When you feel ready, push into the board and slowly straighten your legs. This is a different sensation to simply standing up since it’s more like pushing the board against the water.
3. GENTLE MOVEMENTS ARE KEY
On a wakeboard, any sudden movement can cause you to lose your balance and fall. The key to staying on the board is to make slow, gentle movements at first while you get your bearings. Once you start going, keep your knees softened, slightly bent and gently guide the front of the board to point towards the back of the boat.
4. LEAN BACK
Leaning back on the wakeboard will prevent the front end from going underwater and will help you stay up. It’s also recommended that beginners place the back binding close to the back of the board to position it over the back fin. This puts the user’s weight on the back fin when they lean back and helps make the wakeboard a little easier to control.
5. COMMUNICATE WITH THE BOAT
Having clear communication with the operator of the boat or machine will make staying on the board much easier. Letting them know through hand signals like a thumbsup or thumbsdown will let the boater know everything is going fine or if you need assistance. By always being present and keeping these tips in mind when wakeboarding, you’ll be able to spend more time riding the waves this summer and less time bobbing around in the water wondering what went wrong.
Feeling confident enough to try? Check out our selection of Liquid Force wakeboards perfect for Lake Bomoseen!
Boat Safety Isn't Something to Joke About.
When it comes to safety, preventing boating emergencies has to be one of the most critical elements of your time on the water. Remembering sunscreen, fueling up and making sure your motor is maintained are all important, but if you find yourself in an emergency and don’t take the appropriate action, there may be a serious injury or even fatality.
Here are five common boating emergencies and some tips on how to prevent them:
1. COLLISIONS
The thought of your boat colliding with another vessel or a floating object on the open water is distressing. It’s crucial for every boat operator to take their role seriously, and to take the precautions necessary to avoid a collision. Here are some tips:
● Follow the accepted rules of navigation
● Always maintain a safe speed, especially in the dark or when traffic is heavy
● Don’t consume alcohol while boating
● Don’t operate your vessel when fatigued
● Pay special attention to navigational aids
2. RUNNING AROUND
Getting stuck on the bottom is another issue that happens in our waterways. Most of the time, this happens while traveling at a low rate of speed, but if you are moving quickly, the potential for disaster is significant. Follow these boat safety tips to prevent running aground:
● Know your environment and the waterways you travel in
● Keep in mind the location of shallow submerged objects will change as water levels change
● Bring appropriate charts and learn to read them to determine exact position and water depth
3. FIRE ABOARD
Fire prevention is important in any environment, especially while out on the water. Many boaters accidentally mix fuel, fire and heat which are the three keys to starting a fire. Proper fueling technique and following standard boat safety rules will help prevent this from happening, but if you end up with a fire anyway, here’s what to do:
● Stop the boat immediately
● Instruct anyone who isn't wearing a PFD to put one on
● Move the boat so the fire is positioned downwind
● Shut off the fuel supply if the fire is close to an engine
● Remember not to use water for electrical, grease, oil or gasoline fires
● Use the fire extinguisher to battle the flames, aiming at the base and moving it in a sweeping motion
● Call for help via marine radio and follow any instructions given
4. CAPSIZING AND FALLING OVERBOARD
Sitting in spaces that aren’t designed for sitting isn’t unusual while boating, but it drastically increases the likelihood of someone falling overboard, or capsizing the boat with smaller vessels. Keeping everyone in the areas of the boat designed for passengers is key, but here are some other tips that will help keep the boat upright and everyone inside.
● Make everyone wear a life jacket just in case they end up in the water
● Don’t overload the boat with people or unnecessary supplies
● Don’t allow anyone to sit anywhere not designed for seating
● As the operator, secure an ignition safety switch lanyard to your wrist or clothing
● Avoid boating in rough weather or adverse conditions
● Reduce your speed appropriately when making turns
5. CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
Most people are aware of carbon monoxide’s reputation as a silent killer, but not many associate the risk with boating. The truth is, carbon monoxide is produced anytime a fuel source is burned, including when operating your boat, in the form of engines, heaters, generators or cooking elements. Here are a few tips to keep CO safely away from you and your passengers:
● Don’t allow swimmers to enter any enclosed areas beneath the swim platform
● Keep fresh air circulating no matter what the weather is like
● Ventilate thoroughly if you detect exhaust fumes
● Be mindful of the location of engine and generator exhaust outlets
● Install and maintain carbon monoxide detectors on the boat
Boat safety is a multifaceted activity that covers a broad range of topics, but by taking it seriously and never underestimating the dangers, you can enjoy a safe time on the water every summer.
With Spring here, it's almost time to take your boat out on the open water and enjoy the rising temperatures and the waterside breeze. If you have young children, you’re probably hoping to be able to take them out on the boat in 2016 so that they too can enjoy an exciting open water experience. To prepare for this process, you can now begin to teach your children about the importance of boat safety. In this post, we’ll present five tips for teaching children boat safety this spring.
1. BEGIN EACH TRIP WITH A SAFETY BRIEFING
When taking your children out on the water, it’s imperative to begin each voyage with information on boat safety. As part of this process, you can remind children where they can find life jackets, flashlights and other safety equipment. You can also remind them of the rules for safety when on the board.
2. TEACH CHILDREN ABOUT LIFE JACKET SAFETY
The life jackets are critical safety equipment on your boat, and your children should be taught how to use life jackets safely. Remember; children have growing bodies and so the life jacket that fit them last year might not be suitable for them this year. Ensure they try on the jacket while on the shore to see if it fits them properly.
3. MAKE SURE THEY CAN SWIM
Swimming is an important part of boat safety. Go out with your children on the open water and ensure they know how to swim over a short distance. Then teach them to float using the devices available on your boat. You can teach them the value of their life jacket by having them get used to the feeling of wearing it in the water. This will help ensure they’re ready to use it in case a problem takes place on the boat.
4. PACK SUNSCREEN
Before you set out for the day on your inaugural voyage with your children, remember to pack sunscreen for the trip. Make sure your children have used the optimal amount of sunscreen for the day and teach them the importance of using it on a regular basis as protection from the sun’s rays. While this step may not be directly related to boat and water safety, it’s still a critical step in overall boat safety for kids.
5. SHOW THEM HOW TO GET IN AND OUT OF THE BOAT
While you might be carrying your children from the land onto the boat at this stage, it’s still important that children learn how to take the step themselves. Show them how you can use the boat for leverage and explain how you are using your body to safely make your way inside. By carefully explaining all elements of boat safety, you can teach your children to respect the water while safely enjoying each voyage. To learn more on how to teach children about boat safety, speak with our trusted specialists today!
5 Ways to Get Your Boat Ready for the Water!
The warm weather is now slowly arriving across the country as the winter becomes a memory. With the sunshine following the changing of the seasons, many boat owners are now considering the best techniques for removing their boat from storage and taking it out on the water. In this post, our boat service experts provide tips for taking a boat out of winter storage.
1. BEGIN WITH GENERAL INSPECTION
The first step in removing your boat from the storage space is to complete some general inspection to ensure it remains in optimal condition. Analyze the screws, bolts, and other fittings to ensure they’re properly secured within the boat. Inspect the dock and anchor lines for signs of material chaffing. You may also wish to examine the hull for cracks and blistering.
2. COMMIT TO PROFESSIONAL BOAT SERVICE WORK
While, as an experienced boater, you might be able to check the boat for signs of potential structural problems, it’s important to have your boat reviewed carefully by service professionals before taking it out on the water. The boat service team will complete a comprehensive check, which includes analyzing the fuel lines, cleaning the battery cables and checking your battery water levels. They will also test fuel tanks for signs of leakage.
3. STOCK UP ON SAFETY SUPPLIES
Now that your boat and its components have been inspected carefully by service professionals, you can begin to prepare for a new season on the water by stocking up on all required safety supplies. Count the number of life jackets you have available and ensure there are enough for the use of all passengers for the coming year. You should also ensure the boat’s fire extinguisher hasn’t expired over the winter months.
4. COMPLETE THE CLEANING PROCESS
During the winter months, the interior and exterior areas of your boat might have gathered dirt and grime. You’ll likely have to take a day just to clean the boat and make sure it’s in ideal condition for inviting passengers over the coming months. Cleaning work might include polishing hard surfaces and vinyl seating, vacuuming the interior and power-washing the windows and deck.
5. CAREFULLY TAKE YOUR BOAT ON THE WATER
You’re now ready to take your boat out on the open water for the first time in 2016. But remember to keep a close eye on all system elements during the first voyage of the year. There might have been a small issue you’ve missed during the cleanup and maintenance process, and so you’ll need to be extra vigilant throughout this first trip on the water. Our trusted boat service professionals are available at any time to answer your questions and help you complete maintenance of your vessel. To learn more, contact our team directly.
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NAMING YOUR BOAT CAN ALMOST FEEL LIKE NAMING YOUR CHILD
You’ve carefully chosen a boat that represents you or your family, made a large investment into a new lifestyle, and now it’s time to showcase you and your love for the water. There's several ways to go. You can choose funny, clever, business or surname and sometimes ; there's really no rules, do whatever that floats your boat (no pun intended...well, maybe).
Now there's one extremely important rule, once a boat is named DO NOT RENAME! Folklore throughout the ages declares that renaming any boat will anger the Gods of the Sea. According to legend, once a boat is named it is logged by Poseidon, Neptune or in Vermont, perhaps Champ. Any attempt to rename the boat will anger them and cause you much nautical misfortune. If you don't believe us, simply Google what happens when you rename a boat. You are sure to find hundreds of stories of people's unfortunate misfortune.
Another myth that isn't as commonly known is waiting to name your boat. We had one customer who was very particular about naming things and he had a discussion with his family and friends for the better part of three years on what to name the boat. The result: year three, an unmitigated fog rolled in on July 4th causing the boat to crash and inflict several thousand dollars in damage. Don't worry, no one got hurt. Once the boat was fixed, he immediately named it "T2" in reference to the Titanic, generation 2. He ended up selling his boat and purchasing a new one, but before he even hit the water that boat was named and everyone knew it.
Now you know what not to do, but let's get to the fun part. Over the years we’ve seen some hilarious names drive through the Lake Bomoseen channel, but these by far take the cake.
- The Cod-Father
- Fin & Tonic
- Off the Hook
- Virtual Reel-ality
- Aquadesiac
- A Fishy-nado
- Family Dev-ocean
- Reel Magic
- Cod Squad
- Unortho-docks
- In Decent Seas
- Pier Pressure
- What’s Up Dock?
- Amy’s Wine House
- On The Rocks
- Buoys of Summer
- Sea-Nile
- Yeah Buoy
- Artifishial
- Beach Buoys
Share some of your favorites with us!
One initiative is to launch our new Blog to keep you up to date with boating tips & tricks, special events and great promotions.  Our continued goal is to be a source for the boating lifestyle and bringing you new, fresh content is another step in that direction. We encourage all of you to post and let us know where your boating interests lie.
Since we are talking about boat shows, we might as well give you an introduction to our annual Open House and Boat Show. If you haven't attended one of our shows, we highly encourage that you do.  Each year we choose a wicked fun theme while offering the same great show and manufacturer discounts. In the past we have had fantastic shows. Last year, we celebrated our 55th anniversary (the Emerald Anniversary) with a Wizard of OZ theme equipped with our very own yellow brick road!  One major attraction was a 50 inch touch screen that allowed attendees to snap a photo with our custom Woodard Marine backgrounds and email it to themselves for free. It was an absolute hit.  We have also offered a Get Lucky themed boat show in celebration of St. Patrick's Day.  Contestants were able to play a myriad of themed contests including rolling dice to win $10,000 off a boat purchase. The entire day brings in fans and friends from all over Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and beyond.
2016 is looking like we are going to celebrate (spoiler alert) our very own Woodard Marine Sweet 16. The new boats have some amazing new technology and we plan to show them off in style. The annual show will be held during the March (16th-20th), so make a note.  If you have been before, welcome back! If not, come check us out for a fun filled day for the whole family.  Join The Club is our motto and our customers become our family. Again, please feel free to comment and share and let us know what you want to hear.
Happy New Year Boaters! Live #bomolife
Team Woodard Marine