While drifting over an expansive sand flat off the coast of California recently, all three anglers on my boat hooked up simultaneously with big white sea bass. Pandemonium ensued, and no one had time to run to the chart plotter to create a waypoint so that we might return to the fish later. But I was wearing a new Quatix 7x Solar Edition smartwatch, which allowed me to mark the spot as I battled the fish.

The idea of using a smartwatch to catch more fish might sound far-fetched. Smartwatches from brands like Apple, Carbinox, Coros, Polar and Tag Heuer can perform an amazing number of functions, but most of these wrist-worn computers fail to focus on the marine market. Only one company—Garmin—has developed smartwatches with boating anglers in mind. 

With suggested retail ranging from $699.99 to $1,199.99, Garmin’s latest series of marine smartwatches—the rugged Quatix 7 series—incorporates a mind-boggling array of boating and fishing features.

Watch Vs. Phone

A key question among boating anglers often arises: Why do I need a smartwatch when I can use my smartphone? While these two types of mobile devices perform many of the same functions, the smartwatch has advantages on a boat. For one, a smartwatch is more accessible, says David Dunn, senior director of marine and RV sales for Garmin.

“On a fishing boat, phones usually get tucked away in a safe, dry place so they don’t get wet or fall on the deck or go overboard,” Dunn explains. “A smartwatch, on the other hand, is strapped to your wrist, so you don’t have to run to the helm or risk dropping your phone while on deck.

“Each Quatix also carries a 10 ATM underwater rating, so you need not worry about getting them wet or even reaching into the livewell to grab a bait,” he adds.

With a smartwatch, you can quickly check a text—maybe about a hot bite—while fishing or handling other onboard tasks. That said, in order to access text and email, Quatix marine smartwatches require a wireless connection to a smartphone that has a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. The watch-to-phone connection occurs with the Garmin Connect app using Garmin’s ANT+ wireless technology. 

MFD Control

One of the coolest functions of the Quatix smartwatch is the ability to monitor and control one of many Garmin multifunction displays. For example, I can stream information and access control of my Garmin GPSMap 723xsv using the 7X Solar watch from anywhere on the boat, even while fighting a fish. 

To do this, you first create a Wi-Fi network on the MFD, assigning it a name and password. Make sure you note these for future reference because you will need them to wirelessly connect using the Quatix settings menu. Once the connection is made, it opens a world of possibilities, including the ability to control the chart plotter, view depth readings, and adjust the depth scale or sensitivity. 

While it might not result in more fish, the Quatix also allows you to control a Fusion onboard audio system from anywhere around the boat or on the dock.

Motor Monitor

“Quatix smartwatches can also keep you abreast of engine operating parameters; for instance, if you need to transfer command of the helm to a crewmember while you grab a bite to eat or tend to other duties,” Dunn says. 

“The Quatix will replicate the engine display from the MFD. So, with a twist of the wrist, you can see the boatspeed, rpm, volts, engine temperature and more, even while checking on the condition of your live-bait supply or just digging into the cooler for a sandwich.”

These smartwatches can also be configured to serve as a remote control for Garmin’s Reactor autopilot systems. You can change the heading, engage pattern steering and follow a GPS track, even when you’re not at the helm. That can prove handy when you’re on deck tending trolling lines.

Independent Operator

Even without a connection to a smartphone or an MFD, Quatix smartwatches offer a wealth of angling-related information and functions. Each has a built-in multiband GPS to provide position information anytime and anywhere. 

You can record an MOB directly on your Quatix (independently of the MFD) at the press of the touchscreen and save that waypoint as a fishing spot for future reference.

Each watch comes loaded with Garmin’s SkyView maps and offers support for Garmin’s BlueChart g3 coastal charts (sold separately and updated wirelessly) showing fish-holding reefs, wrecks and ledges, as well as critical navigational data. 

The watches also include built-in tide charts, and you can program them to alert you to important tide phases so you can plan to be at the right place at the right time to intercept fish.

Anchor Watch

Should your fishing plans include an overnight stay in a remote anchorage, a Quatix smartwatch can serve as a critical safety item. That’s because it features an anchor alarm to wake you up if the anchor drags, and it works with or without a connection to an MFD. 

In addition, the new 7X Solar has a powerful LED flashlight on the side of its titanium housing so you don’t stumble around in the dark while checking the anchor.

A Quatix can also facilitate payment at the fuel dock so you don’t have to grab your wallet and risk dropping it in the drink. Using the Garmin Pay app, you can add a credit card to the Garmin account on the watch ahead of time. When paying for fuel, ice and other provisions, just hold your wrist to a pay scanner for a secure, contactless e-payment. “It’s almost too easy,” Dunn says.

Marine-specific smartwatches can do much to make life on the water easier and more productive for boating anglers. While they come with a high price tag, their wide range of functions are clearly useful for anglers, cruisers, and anyone else who drives a boat. I wouldn’t be surprised to see other major marine electronics brands jumping into this market in the years to come. 

The post Using a Smartwatch to Catch More Fish appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

Yeti Camino 35 Carryall

The improved Camino 35 Carryall by Yeti now features deployable dividers and two zippered interior pockets that provide an as-needed option to a single large compartment. Made with the same tough, waterproof material as the Panga Duffel, this redesigned tote allows you to keep your wet gear separate from dry stuff, and it helps organize what you carry more efficiently. $149.99; yeti.com

Salt Life Stealth Trooper Bibs

Waterproof, all-weather Stealth Trooper bibs from Salt Life are built for the long haul with reinforced, welded seams and a double-layered seat and kneepads. Waterproof zip pockets, flap cargo pockets and a heavy-duty Cordura pliers pocket keep essentials handy. Velcro closures at the ankle keep water out, and waist snaps allow an adjusted fit. $126; saltlife.com

Frabill Conservation Ultralight Net

Made for easy, one-handed operation, Frabill’s Conservation Ultralight net features a generous 21-by-24-inch hoop, and a light 48-inch carbon-fiber handle with a molded grip. Its updated Pow’R Lok yoke provides exceptional stability and strength, while the knotless mesh bag with a flat bottom cradles and protects fish for a perfect release. $139.99; frabill.com

Plano Atlas Tackle Pack

Combining the durability of a tackle box with the light weight of a tackle bag, the Plano Atlas Tackle Pack holds four utility boxes, sits on a waterproof HDPE base, and incorporates a patented magnetic Dropzone tool grabber, as well as a bungee-cord rod holder, tool holders, water-resistant phone storage, internal zippered mesh pockets, molded side pockets and comfortable shoulder straps. $199.99; planomolding.com

Rapala Elite Scissors

Armed with a high-performance, lightweight Cerakote coating to protect against abrasion, corrosion and UV rays, Rapala’s Elite scissors feature serrated blades to handle braid, monofilament and fluorocarbon lines. Spring-loaded for one-handed operation, with a sliding lock for storage, the 7-inch Elite scissors also boast an ergonomic handle design and side cutters to clip up to 15-pound wire. $46.99; rapala.com

Costa Tuna Alley

Costa’s popular Tuna Alley frame, now with Pro Series upgrades, includes an updated vent system, adjustable nose pads, and top and side shields. Frames come in three colors—matte black, gray and Wetlands—and are available with Blue Mirror, Gray Silver Mirror, Green Mirror, Copper Silver Mirror, Sunrise Silver Mirror or gray 580G mineral glass lenses. Starting at $257; costadelmar.com

Bajio Roca

Made with a tough, bio-based nylon, Roca Black Matte sunglasses with Blue Mirror polycarbonate lenses from Bajio include an oversize frame for reduced glare and complete coverage against overall light intrusion. Polarized lenses feature LAPIS blue-light-blocking technology that measurably minimizes eye fatigue and strain for longer, more productive days on the water. $199; bajiosunglasses.com

Xtratuf Ankle Deck Boot Eco

The Ankle Deck Boot (ADB) Eco combines the Xtratuf legacy with an innovative plant-based replacement for neoprene. Retaining the familiar design with a nonmarking, slip-resistant outsole, the 100 percent waterproof Eco is built with Yulex, a natural rubber derived from the sap of the Hevea tree, for a boot that is as durable and comfortable as the original ADB. $89.95; xtratuf.com

Pelagic Vaportek Hooded Performance Fishing Shirt

Featuring proprietary water- and stain-repelling technologies, UPF 50-plus sun protection and a UV protective hood, the Vaportek Hooded Performance Fishing Shirt from Pelagic is made of a lightweight and comfortable stretch-flex 100 percent polyester, and keeps you cool with full-length mesh panels for optimal airflow. Available in four colors, now including Black Fish Camo, in sizes S to 3XL. $60; pelagicgear.com

Columbia Skiff Guide Woven Short-Sleeved Shirt

Spend a day on the flats in comfort with the Columbia Skiff Guide woven short-sleeved shirt made from 100 percent recycled polyester. Back vents provide circulation, Omni-Shade technology lends UPF 50 sun protection, and Omni-Shield repellency resists stains. Fishing-friendly details, like a sunglasses cleaning patch and a rod holder, add functionality. $50; columbia.com

AFTCO Rescue Fishing Shorts

Made from fabric developed using regenerated nylon from decommissioned fishing nets and industrial plastics, the Rescue Fishing Shorts from AFTCO offer four-way stretch, UPF 30 sun protection and stain resistance. Key features include a reinforced pliers pocket, an elastic drawstring waist, hand pockets and a zippered back pocket. Available in khaki, Aquifer and charcoal, in sizes 30 to 42. $89; aftco.com

Gill Xpel Tech Hoodie

The Xpel Tech Hoodie from Gill with wicking fabric provides UV 50-plus protection, repels water and oil, and controls odors. Xpel fabric technology remains effective for up to 50 washes. Available in Shadow Camo, Pool Camo, Ice, Twilight, Glacier and white in men’s XS to 4XL, as well as Palm Print, Ice, Pool Blue and white in women’s sizes 4 to 12. $54.95; gillfishing.com

Guy Harvey Performance Raglan Sun Protection Top

Raglan sleeves and moisture-wicking properties keep you comfortable and cool in the Performance Raglan Sun Protection Top from Guy Harvey. It’s made from recycled materials, including plastic bottles, and a portion of the proceeds benefits the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, which conducts scientific research and educational programs to help save our oceans. $45; guyharvey.com

Bluefin Tournament Shorts

Fashioned from lightweight, ultra-soft, durable and quick-drying microfiber fabric, the Tournament shorts from Bluefin offer the comfort of four-way stretch, and are designed for utility with a right-side cargo pocket, pliers pocket, two rear pockets, and adjustable waist straps for the perfect fit. Available in sizes 30 to 40, in khaki and navy. $59; bluefinusa.com

Huck Performance Bucket

Built of tough SpryTech, which outperforms the HDPE used in disposable 5-gallon buckets, the Huck Performance Bucket is nearly indestructible, functional and engineered to stay out of landfills. Vibram performance-rubber feet keep it from sliding on the deck and offer a place for fingers to grab for better handling and control. $119.95; thehuckbucket.com

Smith Coated Knives

Coated knives from Smith’s feature 400 series stainless-steel blades, a corrosion-resistant coating and ergonomic, nonslip TPE handles. Fillet knives in 7- and 9-inch models have flexible tips for precise cutting, and a stout midsection for powering through bone. The 4-inch Baitbreaker includes a serrated top edge. All knives include a breathable sheath with a belt clip. $28.99 to $39.99; smithsproducts.com

Read Next: Essential Gear for a New Boat

Calcutta Tuna/Billfish Bag

Designed to keep large pelagics like tuna, wahoo or billfish chilled and fresh, and to ease the handling and transport of such oversize fish, the Calcutta Tuna/Billfish Bag features three compression straps to hold ice in place. The bag can also be unzipped and used to blanket an entire day’s catch. Reinforced grab handles and sturdy tarpaulin material add durability. $399.99; calcuttaoutdoors.com

The post New Fishing Gear for 2022 appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

You’ve read dozens of reviews, spent two days at the boat show, taken a couple of test rides, and finally picked the one. But your new boat is far from ready to go fishing. First, you must outfit your ride with the correct accessories and safety gear. We asked three boat-business veterans to share their picks of essentials and most desirable add-ons.

With years of experience rigging hundreds of boats, the experts agree on one thing: Choose the best electronics, accessories and safety gear to avoid frustration and have more success on the water.

Must-Haves

Josh Murphy, owner of Norfolk Marine in Virginia, has seen rigging and outfitting get easier and more affordable. “The biggest advancement is integration of electronics from different companies,” he says. An owner can purchase a fish finder from one manufacturer, a radar from another, and a navigation system from a third company, then run all systems from a single multifunction display. Nonetheless, most new-boat buyers are installing matching electronics packages from one manufacturer. “The quality and performance of each brand is excellent across the board,” he says, so anglers don’t have to buy from different brands to get the best unit.

Murphy says his customers are looking for the latest features, such as side-scan and midband chirp sonar, and navigation systems with satellite-connected weather radar and water-temperature overlay, which now come standard on many new chart plotters. For inshore boats, 360 or forward-seeing sonar is becoming more popular, especially units with a transducer that mounts on a trolling motor, which work best in water shallower than 30 feet.

Murphy is particularly impressed with broadband radar, which he says is virtually as sensitive as traditional open-array radar and better suited for small boats. Solid-state radar produces less microwave emission and provides a clearer image of weather, obstacles and shore, he says. The closed systems have no moving parts and come in a smaller package perfect for smaller boats.

With today’s electronics, “the sky is the limit,” Murphy claims. The latest models let you control the boat systems, including sound and security, and monitor the vessel’s vitals from anywhere. Onboard cameras and high-water and temperature sensors even allow you to keep track of conditions when you’re not on board. “It’s all controlled through an app on your smartphone,” Murphy says.

Including factory-installed electronics into your boat deal could save you time and headaches, especially if you lack experience in that department. Plus, retrofitting a boat later is often more costly.

Outrigger Choices

With accessories, “the key is getting the best stuff right off the bat, so you don’t have to replace gear continually,” says Keith Fraser, owner of tackle retailer Alltackle.com. If trolling is part of your fishing plans, you’ll need outriggers, and he says there are great options for smaller boats now. For boats under 25 feet, manufacturers recommend 15-foot poles, while boats from 26 to 30 feet should go with 18-footers. “But carbon-fiber poles are lighter and stiffer, allowing anglers to use longer riggers.”

Docking and Anchoring Needs

Dock lines should not be overlooked, and neither should the right anchor and rode. Aside from dock lines to assist with launching the boat, carry a lead line slightly longer than the waterline to bring the boat from the trailer to the dock. In addition, two shorter ropes and a couple of boat bumpers will keep your new ride from being damaged.

To anchor a boat up to 30 feet, Fraser recommends 3/8-inch three-strand nylon rope at least three times the length of the deepest water in which you plan to anchor, and longer if you often anchor in deep areas or places with strong prevailing winds or currents. Add a length of 5/16-inch chain to resist abrasion and help the anchor dig into the bottom. Danforth anchors are easier to store, but not as reliable on soft bottom as a claw-style Bruce anchor.

Fraser reminds customers that an anchor is essential safety gear if the boat loses power. “So keep a backup anchor on board,” he says.

For the same reason, Fraser recommends an appropriately sized drift sock, which besides slowing a boat’s drift, will also keep the bow into the wind and waves, and help maintain a safe, slower drift in case of a breakdown.

For quick anchoring in shallow water, anglers are rigging skiffs and bay boats with power-anchoring systems. Push a button, and the extendable poles stick into the soft bottom to hold the boat quickly and quietly, and in the perfect position for casting. In deeper water, users partially deploy the poles to control how the boat drifts. To achieve the best results, many new owners are installing two poles, one on each side of the engine.

Bay boats and skiffs are often rigged with a high-powered trolling motor. Location lock is one of Fraser’s favorite features. The trolling motor is integrated with the GPS to hold the boat in position with a push of a button. Most models can be operated with a key fob for hand- and foot-free control.

Dry and Cold Storage

One thing in short supply on most boats is storage. Whether it’s dry storage, tackle storage or cold storage, capitalize on space to make the most of what’s available.

One of Fraser’s favorite add-ons is a locking, waterproof tackle-storage system. The hard-plastic cases can be mounted anywhere on the boat and accommodate a half-dozen traditional tackle trays. To prevent corrosion on lures and terminal tackle, the latest boxes produce a chemical that coats the contents in a thin film.

Cold storage is critical on any fishing boat. Many boats come with in-deck fish boxes, but the crew still needs room for bait and lunch.

Fraser says modern supercoolers pack extra insulation to keep contents cold for days. Coolers seem to take the most abuse on a boat, so look for one with a metal bar through the hinge, and rubber latches that won’t break off. To keep bait frozen without a freezer, place a soft-sided cooler inside a hard cooler and pack both with ice.

Fraser recommends an insulated fish bag for bigger fish. “Most are species-specific,” he points out. There are long, narrow models for wahoo, king mackerel or other long fish that might not fit in the fish box. And always store lunch in a separate cooler. Fraser sees new boaters using soft-sided coolers for food and a separate, hard cooler for drinks. He suggests stocking the lunch cooler with ice packs, which are colder than regular ice, and won’t leave food swimming in meltwater.

Tools of the Trade

For most applications, two gaffs are a good idea. One should have a 2-inch bite for smaller fish, the other a 4-inch bite for the big catches. A 6- to 8-foot handle is ideal for smaller boats.

At least one landing net is also important. Based on the size of the fish you intend to target, pick one with a 24- to 40-inch hoop, and a collapsible handle for easier storage.

Scissors are the safest way to cut line and bait, so keep a lighter pair with curved blades for line and light wire, and heavy shears with straight blades for cutting bait chunks.

Two fillet knives—a sturdy model for cutting bone and thick skin, and a flexible blade for slicing the meat away from the bone and skin—are minimum cutlery needs. A shorter, serrated knife will take care of cutting bait. Keep knives sharp with a hardened tungsten carbon sharpener. Pack a steel file for keeping hooks sharp.

Short-nose pliers provide more torque to pull knots tight, while long-nose pliers are better for digging a hook out of a fish. And don’t forget a dehooker for quick and safe hook removal.

Also carry a well-stocked toolkit that includes standard ratchets and box wrenches, wire crimps, and a voltage meter for minor repairs, along with a few spare parts for on-the-water emergencies.

Lighting

Besides the required white anchor light and green and red navigation lights, Fraser says many owners are adding fishing and accent lights. Inside the boat, white LED lights offer the best visibility, while red or colored lights protect night vision. To see navigation aids and obstacles in the dark, carry an LED spotlight. LEDs are the best choice for marine lighting because the small lamps are sealed from the elements and produce very little heat.

Safety Gear

No one knows more about the pitfalls of powerboating than Ed Schrader, a Sea Tow franchise owner in Hampton Roads, Virginia. After years of rescuing wayward boaters, he’s seen it all. “Advanced materials and systems make boats safer,” he says, but that doesn’t mean emergencies won’t happen. Schrader stresses, “The best way to stay out of trouble is to learn to use the systems and don’t take safety for granted.”

In addition to the minimum safety and rescue equipment required by the Coast Guard, Schrader recommends a 25-watt VHF radio with a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number to make it easier for tow services to find the boat. A handheld 5-watt VHF comes in handy for closer communications and if the user has to exit the boat. “Be sure you know how to read the boat location on the GPS,” he says.

Cellphones are great for nearshore communication, but limited battery life makes them less reliable. Always carry an external charger to power the phone if the boat loses power.

In addition to housing one Type III life vest for each person on the boat (and appropriate kids life jackets), many anglers are opting to wear an inflatable life jacket. Whether a vest or belt-worn model, inflatables are low-profile and lightweight. When the wearer hits the water, a CO₂ canister inflates rubber bladders to provide flotation.

Schrader encourages boaters to carry a satellite rescue beacon. An EPIRB with a powerful GPS signal will alert rescue services anywhere on the globe. On a smaller scale, a handheld personal locator beacon can be carried in a life-jacket pocket. A signal whistle and strobe lights further improve communication in a rescue event.

To round out safety equipment, Schrader suggests a portable bilge pump and battery charger. To plug a leak, he carries silicone tape and foam footballs. Cable ties can save the day, he adds. On-the-water injuries miles and hours from help require a well-stocked first-aid kit and survival blankets. Schrader also carries extra water in case the day lasts longer than expected. “Most important,” he adds, “don’t forget to put in the bilge plug.”

The list of gear may seem long and expensive, but equipping the boat with the right stuff not only improves safety but also increases enjoyment. Powerboating involves a lot of moving parts and requires great responsibility. Outfit the boat properly to ensure years of worry-free fishing and enjoyment.

The post Essential Gear for a New Boat appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

There’s no better time than spring, with prime fishing season around the corner, to add a few enhancements to your fishing machine. From innovative propulsion options to better ways to keep baits in the strike zone, here are some products to make your time on the water more enjoyable and productive.

Rapid Switch Shade

With seasonal temperatures on the rise, shade is a welcome relief when spending long hours on the water, and the Rapid Switch System Shade—for skiffs and center-consoles—now offers a viable alternative to cumbersome umbrellas and Bimini tops, which often interfere with fishing. Its top features include carbon-fiber telescoping struts that quickly install into dedicated flush-mount receivers, so gunwales and decks stay clear, and Soltis Horizon 86 fabric, an open-mesh, vinyl-coated polyester fabric that is tear- and mildew-resistant, and blocks heat while maintaining airflow. Once the poles are deployed, the shade is drawn tight, yet it can be tilted or raised as the angle of the sun changes. When not needed, the poles and shade can be quickly repacked and stowed in a deck box or compartment. Kits are stand-alone or connect to existing T-tops or rod holders. Starting at $1,150; rapidswitchsystems.com

Sharrow MX-1 Propeller

Featuring a unique looped blade design, Sharrow MX-1 custom propellers are now available for recreational outboard and sterndrive engines ranging from 100 to 450 hp. Each prop is CNC-machined and made to order, taking several weeks to produce. Benefits include lower planing rpm, reduced vibration and tip degradation, plus increased fuel efficiency and top-end speed. Company president Greg Sharrow says the difference in performance and handling is noticeable, especially in hard turns and reverse. The MX-1 propellers are available in aluminum ($4,500) and stainless steel ($9,000); sharrowmarine.com.

Grand Slam 1000 Electro-Hydraulic Outrigger Mount

Designed for outriggers up to 24 feet long, the Grand Slam Electro-Hydraulic outrigger mount offers push-button fishability. The system lets you adjust a rigger’s lift from zero through 75 degrees without leaving the helm or having to stand on the gunwales. Incremental stops are set at 30, 45 and 60 degrees. As an added safety feature, outward rotation won’t occur without releasing the locking mechanism. Lift and rotation of the unit are driven by a 1,000 psi hydraulic pump with a control manifold and valves. The GS1000 installs flush with the top, so all lines and wiring are concealed. The mount pairs with Twist & Lock Carbon Fiber Tele-Outriggers. $8,995; tacomarine.com

Rotating Rod Holders

Conditions on the water tend to change frequently, and your ability to adapt usually results in more fish in the box at the end of the day. Rotating rod holders from Boat Outfitters afford you that advantage. Available in 15- and 30-degree models, these durable and strong holders—made of premium, treated stainless steel to inhibit rust and withstand up to 135 pounds of pressure—are designed to rotate to the desired position.

Similar to typical flush-mount rod holders, installation is simple enough for most do-it-yourselfers. Companion backing plates and drain attachments are also available. The rotating rod holders are covered by a five-year manufacturer’s warranty. $175; boatoutfitters.com

Tigress Poseidon Dredge Boom

With the Tigress Poseidon Dredge Boom, center-console boats can easily compete with the big sport-fishers, pulling double and triple dredges down deep to raise boat-shy fish that would otherwise not come up to the spread. The Poseidon is designed to work with 80-pound-class bent-butt rods and Lindgren-Pitman or Hooker electric reels. This handy cockpit accessory features a 7-foot black fiberglass boom, heavy-duty block pulley, and stainless-steel hardware, and it comes with a safety tether complete with stainless carabiner. $649; tigressoutriggers.com

Cox Diesel Outboard

Available in 25-, 30- and 35-inch shaft lengths, Cox Marine’s CXO300 diesel outboard is a powerful alternative to big-block gasoline engines. Based on proven four-stroke V-8 technology and weighing 848 pounds, this diesel Clydesdale burns an efficient 20 to 28 gallons at speeds of 40 to 46 mph. Other attributes include low vibration, impressive torque and responsiveness, noise levels low enough to carry on normal conversations throughout the operating range, and no smoke. The carbon-fiber cowlings come in black or white, and service and warranty are backed by an extensive global dealer network. $55,000; coxmarine.com

The post Accessories to Upgrade Your Boat appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

Wish you had more rod holders? Perhaps a few in strategic locations? How about a place to keep your cell phone or beverage safe but handy? This video shows you some of the best boat accessories to quickly and easily add efficiency and convenience to your boat, and they’re even removable!

The post DIY Rod Storage and Boat Accessories appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

Columbia Force XII Zero

Panga Submersible Backpack 28

Xtratuf Deck Shoe

Fish Hippie Flat Water Button-Down

Hook and Gaff King Tide Watch

Costa Tico

Grundens Tourney Jacket and Bibs

GoFish Cam

AFTCO Nukam Shorts

The post Father’s Day Gift Ideas appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

Minn Kota offers the MKA-55 Stabilizer Kit with several durable features. The Stabilizer rod can be cut to fit. The low profile base can be removed from the deck easily and the pivoting arm folds down when not in use. This kit is compatible with the Ulterra, Terrorova and PowerDrive motors. $64.99; minnkotamotors.johnsonoutdoors.com

Available in standard and long models, Motor Guide’s solution to reducing vibration uses a rugged RAM Mount system to lock the shaft into place to keep it from bouncing in rough water. The base makes a small footprint on the deck and the stabilizer can be lowered by loosening the tension spring knob. $67.99; motorguide.com/store

Designed by an avid angler with a background in industrial plastics, this simple yet durable accessory is custom made to order to fit any motor or application. The beefy cylinder is partially split to slip over the shaft for precise positioning using stainless steel hardware. The proprietary formula of the plastic resists the harmful effects of salt water, UV light and will last for years. Starting at $80, plus shipping. (251) 714-5022.

Custom built to order, the Trolling Motor Support Leg is made from durable polyethylene in either white or black finishes. The simple movable leg design folds against the shaft when the motor is deployed. Stainless steel hardware ensures a snug fit. $50 with free shipping in the US. shallowwatersolutions.com

The post Accessories for Trolling Motor Protection appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

Fishing boats keep getting bigger as more builders join the 40-plus-foot ranks of offshore-capable boats rigged with powerful, fuel-efficient outboards, and the distinction between diesel sport-fishers and center-consoles becomes fuzzier. Range is nearly the same. Sport-fishers have the edge in fuel capacity, while center-consoles have the speed advantage. And when it comes to fishing accessories for big-game species like billfish, tuna and wahoo, there’s really not a lot of differences these days.

“We carry everything the big boats have,” says Tim Achee of Covington, Louisiana, a team member on Split Decision, a 37 Freeman that competes on the Gulf of Mexico big-game tournament circuit. “We have everything but air conditioning and a proper relief station. But we do have a Yeti bucket,” he adds.

Split Decision owner Scott Robichaux of Grand Isle, Louisiana, has outfitted his catamaran with gear and accessories to catch and keep bait alive, as well as conquer triple-digit-weight blue marlin. Most of the items are duplicated, including AFTCO flying and straight gaffs, tag sticks, Taco Marine ­carbon-fiber outriggers, short teaser rods on bent butts that run off the hardtop rocket launcher, and even four factory-installed tuna tubes and another four temporarily mounted on the transom for tourneys.

“Having different accessories gives us the most options,” he explains. “I call the boat Split Decision because we never know where we might end up. We could fish the in-close oil rigs or make a run all the way out to the Green Canyon. Multiple tuna tubes give us more ammunition. Typically, we free-line a live blackfin or small yellowfin tuna to try for that early-morning blue marlin bite. By midday, we switch over to trolling, so having all the right tools and a full complement of accessories on board just increases our opportunities.”

Ryan Dumas, a teammate aboard Mark Wade’s 39 Nor-Tech Questionable Judgment, based on Dauphin Island, Alabama, is another firm believer in ­redundancy. A pair of standard ­transom tuna tubes are augmented by up to eight temporary ones in tournament settings. “We always try to take at least two of everything: gaffs, bait nets, etc.,” Dumas explains, “just in case we lose one overboard.”

The boat’s normal arsenal includes an 8-foot flying gaff with a 6-inch hook and the IGFA allowable length of 5⁄8-inch rope. A pair of 8-foot straight gaffs with 4-inch hooks are also on board, along with a 4-foot gaff with a 2-inch hook for dolphin.

The team carries at least two kites for surface presentations, and a couple of dip nets to scoop frisky baits out of the livewell with the least amount of stress. “We’re in a center-console, but we’re still competing against 72-foot Vikings, so we have to be prepared,” Dumas says.

Downriggers are invaluable for getting live baits or lures below the surface when targeting wahoo and tuna. Digital models take the guesswork out of depth settings and make retrieval easier. A pair on the transom corners offers even more options and adds yet another layer of redundancy.

Don’t overlook hand tools on the accessory checklist either. Crimpers, pliers and bait knives are essential for rigging, along with hook files, a strap wrench for tightening rod lockdown nuts, and rod tethers to keep those expensive rod-and-reel combos in the boat when encountering rogue waves or unexpected knockdowns.

Most outboard boats forgo fighting chairs due to space limitations, so quality harnesses and fighting belts are critical for the alternate stand-up style of fishing. One size definitely doesn’t fit all, however.

Try on the harness and gimbal belt beforehand to ensure a proper fit. Harnesses should be thickly padded and offer good support for the lower back and shoulders. The gimbal belt should be wide enough to straddle the upper legs, while the kidney harness needs to fit snugly around the hips to maintain the proper center of gravity. The ideal stand-up posture forms a 60-degree triangle for maximum leverage and stamina. And whoever is up first on the rod should adjust the straps and clips long before the initial strike, not after line is pouring off the reel.

Bringing a knife to a gun fight is never fair odds. Add the right big-game accessories, though, and large ­center-consoles are on equal footing when going head-to-head with their diesel counterparts.

The post Offshore Fishing Accessories appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

Keep your coffee hot for hours with the new Rambler 14-ounce mug from Yeti. Made from 18/8 stainless steel, the mug is designed to keep the contents hot (or cold) no matter the temperature outside. Available in classic stainless steel or five DuraCoat colors, with a standard lid.

Price: $24.99

Yeti website

The post Yeti Rambler 14-Ounce Mug appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

Protect your skin from the effects of the sun while maintaining the dexterity needed for boat and tackle management with the Half Finger Guide Glove from Fish Monkey. With 50+ UPF sun protection, a synthetic leather palm for a nonslip grip, and a second-skin fit, you’ll be able to tie knots and handle the boat all day without needing to remove the gloves.

Price: $29.95 Website: fishmonkeygloves.com

The post Fish Monkey’s Half Finger Guide Glove appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.