Another Weekend, Another Boat Show

Well, we're at it again - another boat show starts tomorrow! This time, we're headed to lovely Georgia for the Savannah Boat & Outdoor Show. Join us!



Once again, we'll have our Robalo, EdgeWater and Chaparral boats with us at our display in Exhibit Hall M. If you're coming to the show, here are a few things you should know before you go:

1. Like free things? So do we. Enter to win sunglasses, windbreakers and other great prizes at the show here
2. Purchase tickets online to be entered into the drawing for a free iPad from of Allstate Boat Insurance AND receive an automatic $1 off ticket prices at the show entrance. Tickets may be purchased with cash only at the door.
3. You can meet RJ and Jay Paul from the History Channel's Swamp People! See the show's other features here.

Get more details on show times, parking and admission at the show website. Hope to see you there!

Spring is Coming!

Sure, it's still February, but we know spring is on its way. And we're lucky enough in Charleston to be able to start our boating season a little earlier than our Northern friends. But to make sure you get your season off on the right foot, you need to de-winterize. There's nothing worse than cranking that engine for the first time on the first nice day of spring and getting.... nothing.




So here are our tips for getting your boat spring-ready:

1. Check the oil: This is especially crucial if you didn't change your oil before you tucked your boat in for winter - and if you didn't now's the time. Change the oil filter as well, and check the oil in your outdrive if applicable.

2. Check out that battery: A dead battery does no one any good. Reattach those cables, and wipe the terminals clean if there is any corrosion.  If your battery takes water, fill it on up - a dry battery is a bad battery. Check your volts with an amp meter. If it's dry, recharge. If it's still got nothing, it might be time for a new one (which we, of course, would be more than happy to help you with!).

3. Change the fuel filter: Hopefully you topped off your tank at the end of summer last year to prevent moisture buildup. Change out your fuel filter and check the fuel line for cracking. Replace it if necessary.

Those are three big things (but by no means a comprehensive list). Here are a few more thoughts:

• Change the spark plugs
• Lubricate the engine with WD-40
• Check all hoses
• Test the bilge pump
• Check rudder and shafts
• Inspect the prop
• Test the VHF radio
• Check the trim
• Inspect personal flotation devices (please do!)
• Check the fire extinguisher expiration date (this one's important too!)

What are de-winterization steps you take every year? Remember, you can always make an appointment with us to make sure your boat gets a comprehensive check before boating season hits.

The Scoop on the All-New Chaparral 277 SSX

We've been talking about this boat for awhile now. We've been waiting to get to know it since August of last year. And now, others have caught the bug associated with this boat. Meet the new 2013 Chaparral 277 SSX.



Let's start from the front and work our way back. The adult-sized bow area has unique seats that don't force you to sit sideways or put your legs up if you don't want to, thanks to the L-shape bench to port and across the bow, and a separate, forward-facing seat to starboard. One of the boat's options are pull-up cleats, which make the once treacherous path around the bow of the boat safe for your toes. Storage capabilities start (but doesn't stop) under the bow seats.

In the cockpit, the vinyl wrapped helm feels good, is obviously well done and adds a note of luxury to the boat. It's also easy to get inside the helm to wiring if that ever becomes necessary. A removeable cockpit table allows you to gather... or not. It's there if you want it, and not in the way when you don't! Large storage lockers in this area provide plenty of room for all of your boating accessories. The storage drawers roll in and out easily - we liked not having to fight with them, or worry about them rolling open at inopportune times.

In the stern area, you again have options: either leave the stern open so you can easily walk through the cockpit area to the swim platform and off the boat, or add the removeable cushion to create a lounge seat. 

Now for the details: the boat has a yacht certified passenger capacity, is 27 ft long (obviously) and has a 105 gal fuel capacity.

Check out more details on the 277 SSX on our online brochure. You can also check out this recent review from Boating Magazine.

Is this boat in your future?

Fishing Vacation? Here's How to Pack

Are you planning on leaving our fairly mild South Carolina climate to go fishing in much warmer weather? Or maybe the opposite is true - you want to find some great ice fishing opportunities. If you're driving, you can obviously bring whatever gear you'd like. But if you are flying to your fishing destination, then you know you need to think a bit harder about what you bring. So here are some tips and tricks on packing your fishing gear for that plane trip:



Use a soft tackle bag: Pack your gear in a soft-sided bag. Hard boxes might crack when tossed around with other baggage. A bonus: you can probably fit more in a soft bag than in your traditional box! Think about taking your lures apart so you can fit more of them in. Sure, this gives you a little more work to do once you arrive at your fishing destination, but we think it's worth it if you need a variety of sizes for success.

Pack your rods in tubes: If you're bringing your rods with you, pack them in a sturdy rod tube you can check. Alternative, bring 4 and 5 piece rods that you can pack in your primary checked bag. It's easy enough to use PVC pipes and plastic caps to make your own rod tubes. Make sure they are clearly marked with your contact information and the ends are securely fastened.


Use generic bags: It may be better to use bags that are not branded from a fishing company. That way, no one knows what's inside, and your gear is much less likely to be messed with - or stolen.



Practice makes perfect: Do a packing trial (less fun than a sea trial, we know) a few days before you need to pack up your things for real. That way, you can experiment with how to make everything fit the best and alter your packing list as needed. Nothing like a little preparation to make the night before you leave a little less stressful!



Check out FishAbout for more packing tips (some of which are not specific to fishing).



Where are you taking your gear this year for a great fishing trip?