As the weather warms up and spring arrives, many boaters eagerly take to Southwest Florida waters to enjoy the moderate temperatures and subsiding March winds. However, with increasing boating activity comes the need for heightened awareness and caution to ensure everyone’s safety on the water. Below, we’ll discuss some essential tips for navigating springtime boat traffic and staying safe while enjoying your on-water adventures. Plan Ahead and Be Prepared: Before heading out on the water, take the time to plan your trip carefully. Check the weather forecast and be aware of any potential chan ..read more

As winter bids farewell and boating weather improves with the arrival of spring, it’s time to prepare our boats for another season of adventure on the water. Like your home, your boat deserves a thorough spring cleaning to ensure it’s in top condition for increased outings. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or a novice captain, here’s why a spring cleaning session for your boat is a must-do: Maintain Your Investment Your boat is more than just a vessel; it’s an investment in memories, experiences, and relaxation. Regular maintenance, including spring cleaning, helps protect this investment and ..read more

Are you ready to dive into the world of boating? Look no further than the Bonita Springs Boat Show, a must-visit event for boating enthusiasts of all levels. Hosted at the Bonita Springs Poker Room from February 29 to March 3, this annual event promises an unforgettable experience filled with fun and bargains! Explore a Vast Array of Boats Priced to SellWith hundreds of boats on display from the area’s top dealers, the Bonita Springs Boat Show offers a fantastic opportunity to explore a diverse range of vessels. Whether you’re in the market for a crowd-pleasing pontoon, a spacious cruiser, or ..read more

Whether you’re a seasoned or novice Southwest Florida boater, understanding the impacts of our saltwater environment on your outboard motor is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. One essential practice often overlooked is the post-saltwater use ritual: flushing your outboard. Below, we’ll dive into why this step is necessary and how it can significantly contribute to preserving your valuable investment. The Corrosive Challenge: Saltwater, with its corrosive nature, poses a constant threat to the metal components of your outboard motor. The high salt content can lead to corr ..read more

The November 2023 Ft. Myers Boat Show had a great showing with a number of inquisitive folks asking a variety of questions at my exclusive seminar(s). The question that was mostly asked was, ‘WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO CATCH FISH’? The answer: ‘Every Month”!  Every species of fish that we have in our rivers, creeks, canals and estuaries are here year-a-round. During seasonal changes, some species become less in number and sizes due to water temperatures, migratory patterns and spawning rituals. Below is a quarterly outline of what anglers may expect to catch throughout the y ..read more

Firstly, I want to thank all of our ‘Military Veterans’ and active personnel for their bravery, support and service for protecting the United States of America and our allies. It takes courage to join the any military branch that may require one to put their ‘life on the line’ at a moment’s notice and be transferred to domestic or foreign ports, leaving their families and friends behind, not knowing if they will return. That is a lonely feeling. I salute Navy, Airforce, Army, Coast Guard and of course my Marine Corps brothers and sisters. SEMPER FI! The flags representing each branch of our mi ..read more

The Fort Myers Boat Show opens the door to a world of boating possibilities. At the show, you’ll encounter a wide array of boats, accessories, seminars, and much more, all conveniently situated in a single location. It’s more than just a show; it is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about boating or those looking to get into the lifestyle. First and foremost, attending the show allows you to explore an extensive lineup of boats and watercraft. Whether you’re in the market for a small vessel, roomy pontoon boat, or wave-taming center console, you can step on board, inspect the craftsma ..read more

It’s been a fun and eventful summertime for 1st Mate Vicki and I working areas of the Florida Keys (‘KEYS’) when the winds permitted. A lot of our fellow Marine Industries Association of Southwest Florida and Tampa Bay members also take opportunities to do the same. A recent trip to Marathon produced quite a bit of Mahi-Mahi action for us, even though it was extremely hot during the day. Fortunately, the 10-12 mile per hour easterly winds provided just enough relief with less humidity to where we could enjoy full days of trolling the waters. We have plans to join the Maverick Boat Group togeth ..read more

 FORT MYERS,FL — As we approach the one-year anniversary of the devastation brought to southwest Florida by Hurricane Ian, the Marine Industries Association of Southwest Florida and Tampa Bay (MIA) and the Old Salt Fishing Foundation has wound down its Boaters Helping Boaters Fund. The fund was established to provide relief to those who make a living on the waterfront directly impacted by the storm.   “We are very proud that this grass roots effort was supported by so many of our members, and other marine businesses and associations around the country”, said MIA president Hans ..read more

Summertime draws Southwest Florida boaters to venture onto our area’s waters and enjoy the sun’s warmth. However, amidst the enjoyment, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential dangers of heat exposure while boating. Heat-related illnesses can quickly turn a day of leisure into a health emergency. In this blog post, we’ll explore effective strategies to avoid the dangers of high temperatures while enjoying your time on the boat. Stay Hydrated: Your Lifeline on the Water Proper hydration is the cornerstone of heat safety. On a hot day, boating can lead to rapid dehydration due to the combinat ..read more