As the Fall months creep into our calendars, boat owners in cooler climates acknowledge, with sadness, that it’s time to put the boat away. Outside Storage? It’s a thought and an option but consider that you may be threatened by snow build up, tornadoes or hurricanes. The success of storing your boat outside depends on how well your boat is protected from the conditions outdoors.                          Rinse/Flush Rinsing the outside of your boat and trailer thoroughly with fresh water will remove excess salt. Pay particular attention to your trailer’s leaf springs, wheel hubs and brakes that are constantly submerged during launching and retrieval of your boat. Flush your engine's cooling system with fresh water in line with your engine manufacturer’s salt removal recommendations. This will minimize corrosion and overheating issues come spring. Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present. Salt Watch out for salt. Buy a good salt remover to minimize corrosion. Add fuel stabilizer to top off your fuel tanks. Here is one recommended by CLR Marine. Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer & Performance Improver - 32oz *Case of 4* STA-BIL Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer is a diesel additive that keeps fuel fresh for quick, easy starts and maximized for engine performance. Designed for use with all diesel engines, and all diesel fuels, Sta-Bil Fuel Stabilizer Diesel formula prevents sludge and sediment formation, cleans and lubricates fuel injectors to improve performance and helps remove water. It is safe to use and recommended for use at every fill up, with the 32 ounce bottle treating up to 320 gallons of fuel. Batteries Remove the batteries from your boat and store in your garage or basement. Batteries should be connected to a battery charger that will give them a good charge and one that w automatically switches to a float/trickle charge to keep your batteries topped up. Match your charger to the type of battery you are charging. Using a charger manufactured for lead acid batteries to charge an AGM (absorbent glass mat) battery will cause damage to the battery. If you choose to keep your batteries in the boat, connect a solar trickle charger. These chargers will keep your batteries topped off without the hassle of removing heavy batteries from your boat. Cleaning Clean the exterior with the proper fiber glass or wood cleaner needed for your boat. Bright work can be cleaned by removing the wood or cleaning it as it is - installed. Be careful to not get the wood cleaner onto the deck surfaces. The exterior should be dried with a chamois cloth. Vinyl seat cushions and backs should be cleaned with vinyl cleaner. Hard surfaces inside the vessel can be wiped with all purpose cleaners. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Don’t forget the bottom paint. Before you store, spend the time to give your boat a thorough cleaning. CLR Marine has many products by trusted brands such as Powerhouse, Davis Instruments, Jabsco, Shurhold, and Swobbit, to help winterize and clean. You will be grateful in the spring during launch time that your boat is already clean as the new boating season begins. Cover Up If you store outside in your yard, driveway, or a boat yard, a boat cover is a must to prevent damage from winter conditions. Leaving your boat in the water is not recommended. The boat is exposed to rough weather, and has a greater possibility of sinking if you aren’t monitoring it often. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/boat-outfitting/winter-covers.html and https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/winterizing.html Circle May 21, 2022, on your calendar. The date is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water and a great boating season. In the meantime, during the cold winter months, cozy up to the fire and read your boating manuals, new safety regulations and weather information. Fair winds and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please get in touch with CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. _________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.  

Boat Outfitting Equipment and Supplies When it comes time for outfitting your boat, you can get all your boating supplies and boating accessories from us. You will never need to go anywhere else for your boat outfitting, because we have all the boat supplies you need. If you're looking for anchors/chain/rope, anodes, antifouling systems or boarding ladders, we have you covered. We can also offer you a selection of bottom paint and bow thrusters to choose from. You may also want cleaning supplies that offer deck/galley options so you can get your boat sparkling and ready to enjoy. We also have display mounts and docking accessories to complete your outfitting needs.

XPS Pontoon Power Steering Unit Don’t get left behind…take advantage of the ease, control, and power of GEN 2, the most advanced XPS Power Steering yet! The Panther XPS G2 Power Steering System is a hybrid system that combines the durability and dependability of cable steering with the ease of automobile-like power steering. The Panther XPS G2 gradually reverts to cable steering in case of hose failure, steering fluid leak, or power loss to the pump, so you’re NEVER without steering. Engineered to make steering your boat as effortless as the vehicle you drive. No matter the vessel you operate, XPS offers affordability, confidence, fitness, and all-around ease of operation. Safe: Existing Cable steering acts as a safety backup in case of system failure  Exceeds ABYC mechanical and hydraulic steering standards Effortless: Automobile like effort  Eliminates prop torque  Easy to maneuver in tight quarters, especially around docks and landings Broad Fit Range:  Designed to fit any boat or pontoon that can use cable steering  The cylinder can be fully extended without interference  Outboard engines 90-250Hp Save Time & Money:  Self-bleeding hoses  Utilize existing mechanical steering Save Power: Stored energy allows for short pump run-times  Less power draw substantially reduces the risk of dead batteries

Flex-Fit™ PRO Polyester Size 9 Boat Cover for Pontoon Boats - Grey *20'-22' Centerline Length *102" Max Beam Width Available in 10 sizes that fit practically all 14 – 23 foot boats. Economically priced, our Flex-Fit™ PRO universal cover is an excellent choice for storage and trailering. Our Flex-Fit™ PRO boat covers feature a strong and durable 1/4″ shock cord encased into the hem for a snug fit. One tie-down kit is included for quick and easy tie-down. Mesh Storage bag is included. Poly-Flex II - Economically-priced 5.3 oz. Solution-Dyed Marine Polyester with urethane coating. Lightweight and strong. Good resistance to tearing. Durable water repellency, UV and mildew resistant finish. Breathable to help allow interior moisture to escape. Designed and sewn in the USA. (3 Year Limited Warranty). Boat Types: Pontoon Boats Features: Construction - Join seams are folded four-ply. No raw edges  Stitching - Double stitch construction for added strength and durability  Weather Resistant - Anti-wick thread throughout construction  Double Reinforced - Tie-down loops sewn into hem  Best Warranty in the Business - Best Warranty in the business based on fabric selection All Carver Covers are Made in the USA

MIAMI BEACH — Nine marine manufacturers were honored for innovative achievement this morning — the opening day of the Miami International Boat Show.   Winning companies received their awards during a media breakfast held at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The Innovation Awards, organized by the National Marine Manufacturers Association and judged by Boating Writers International, recognize innovative products that benefit the marine industry or consumer. The products must be "practical, cost-effective and available to the consumer within 60 days of award receipt." The judges chose the winners from 50 products entered in eight different categories. “There were some exceptional entries this year, and it made the judging process a challenge,” said Zuzana Prochazka, Miami Innovation Awards chair and member of the BWI board of directors.   The judges selected winners for every category, and several additional products were given honorable mentions. In the consumer electronics and software category, the judges selected the NavNET 3D by Furuno USA Inc. NavNET is a multifunction navigation suite available in both standalone and black-box units.“This is a truly game-changing product that sets the standard for the industry,” judge John Wooldridge said. Two honorable mentions were also awarded in this category, which the judges say was crowded with excellent entries. The first went to the HX850S floating hand-held, GPS-enabled VHF from Standard Horizon, and the second was presented to the Satellite Personal Messenger Device, also known as SPOT.   The AirBattens from UK-Halsey Miami was the winner in the Consumer-Installed Non-Electronic Hardware category. According to the judges. AirBattens increases in-mast furling mainsail performance by 15 percent by significantly improving sail shape. An honorable mention in this category was given to the design of the Adaptive Seating & Steering System developed by Shake-A-Leg Miami.   In the Consumer Personal Gear category, the Innovation Award was presented to the Coastal Compact Life Raft from Revere Survival Products.  The H2 LED Dock, Marina and Pier Lights by TouchStone Accent Lighting took home the award in the Consumer-Installed Docking and Fendering Equipment category. The H2 LED cleat light was called a simple, well-engineered and sleek light available in 12-volt or solar versions that mount under a standard 10-inch cleat. The True North 34 from Pearson Yachts/True North Yachts was the winner in the Inboard and Outboard Cruisers category. The judges said the 34-foot True North combines an innovative hideaway tailgate/transom and moveable cockpit seating for a truly unique design. Walker Bay Boats' Airis High-Pressure Inflatable Kayak was deemed the winner in the Inflatables, Small Boats Up to 15 Feet and Tenders category. Constructed using patent-pending AirWeb technology, this one-of-a-kind performance hull design can be inflated to more than six psi, resulting in a rigid and stable platform that is lightweight and compact enough to be carried as a backpack, the judges said. Yamaha Motor Corp. took home the award in the PWC, Jet Boats and Pontoon Boats category for its Wave Runner SHO. Yamaha's SHO features several PWC-industry ‘firsts,' including: A nano-engineered hull that decreases the craft's weight by 25 percent; a no-wake mode that automatically sets engine RPM at optimal no-wake speed; and cruise control. The RPT (Revolutionary Planning Technology) pontoon tube design by Sylvan Marine received an honorable mention from the judges in this category. In the Runabouts and Fishing Craft category, judges presented the Innovation Award to Boston Whaler for its 230 Dauntless. The revolutionary approach to seating in the Dauntless 230 sets it apart in its class, according to the judges. This year's Environmental Award went to the Eco-Star 200 electric boat by Starcraft Marine. The Eco-Star 200 combines access to electrical motors with exceptional maneuverability of twin propellers, all on the popular deck boat platform. The judges considered this design to be a positive step for both the boating industry and use of alternative energy propulsion systems.   Congratulations to all the 2008 Innovative Achievement Award winners from CLR Marine.   We must mention one of the 2007 Innovative Achievement Award winners was the Companionway CloZures. 

  IN STOCK! Garmin Force™ Freshwater Trolling Motors & Accessories   Garmin's Force™ Freshwater Trolling Motors and accessories are now in stock. Garmin brings aboard the most powerful and most efficient trolling motor available. Check it out today!     Move your fishing to a higher level with force. The Force trolling motor is the most powerful and most efficient trolling motor available. Wireless chartplotter connectivity provides navigation, autopilot and anchor lock features. Use the precise anchor lock to hold your boat in the same location while you fish. Force includes a convenient wireless foot pedal that provides instant control and responsiveness yet feels and steers like a cable-steered pedal. See more fish and structure clearly with integrated Ultra High-Definition scanning sonar. It also includes a handheld remote control with a built-in sunlight-readable display. The remote gives you complete control of the trolling motor and simple point-and-go gesture steering.       Specials    Closeouts   Remanufactured    Rebates

Towing & Trailering   Trailering can add new dimensions to the sense of freedom that comes with boating, and that's one of the reasons it's so popular. With a trailerable boat, you're free to boat on just about any lake, river, bay or inlet. Trailering is great way to explore different waterways in your state or region it's also the most affordable way to store your boat. The tips below can help you learn all about towing and boat trailer maintenance.   Look for Certified Trailers  NMMA Trailer Logo. Highly trained third-party inspectors visit the manufacturer each year and physically inspect boat trailer models, ensuring compliance to all certification requirements.     Trailering your boat can add new dimensions to the freedom that comes with boating.  If you've never trailered a boat, there are several things you need to consider. First, determine the towing capacity of your car, truck or SUV. You can find this information in the owner's manual of your vehicle. Usually compact family sedans are not suitable for towing more than a small, aluminum fishing boat or PWC with a properly mounted hitch and lighting plug . Most standard pick-up trucks and SUVs can trailer boats up to 25 feet, but always consult your vehicle owner's manual for limitations.   The owner's manual of your boat will list the "dry” weight of the boat, less fuel and gear. When you're assessing your vehicle's towing capacity, be sure to add several hundred pounds to the dry weight to account for gear, gas and accessories.     As the weight, length and beam (width) of a given boat increase, so does the muscle power needed to launch and retrieve it. A small boat may be easy for one person to handle at the ramp, but larger boats (generally those more than 25 feet) may require additional hands. Don't be afraid to ask for help at the ramp if you need it, trailer boaters are always happy to help.   STOP Invasive Species   By following these guidelines:   Never release live or dead bait or bait packaging into a water body, or release aquatic animals from one water body into another. Share live bait with other anglers or empty your bait bucket in the trash before leaving the area. Don't drive the boat through aquatic plants; avoid chopping vegetation with outboard motor propeller Once on dry land, drain water out of every conceivable place that can hold water: Follow factory guidelines for eliminating water from engines. All engines hold water, but jet drives on personal watercraft and other boats can hold extra water. Remove the stern drain plug and put boat on an incline so that all the water drains out. Drain livewells, bilge and transom wells. Empty water out of kayaks, canoes, rafts, etc. Remove any visible plant, fish, and animal or fragment as well as mud, which can house them. Check trailer, in and around the boat itself, the anchor, props or steering nozzle (PWCs and jet boats), lines, fenders, paddles Rinse your boat, trailer, and equipment. Clean and dry anything that came in contact with the water. It is best to use high-pressure, hot (104°F) water or a solution of one percent table salt and water. A garden hose will work if no other option is available. Air-dry your boat and equipment for as long as possible—at least five days is optimal.               Specials   Closeouts    Remanufactured    Rebates  

Choose Enviro-Friendly Products Flexdel's Aquagard products are considered "Environmentally Preferable" because they release low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC) and heavy metals compared to other competing products.   Flitz Products Are Safe For The Environment You can feel good knowing Flitz products are formulated to be safe for you and the environment. For over 30 years, Flitz has been a world leader in the manufacturing of Premium Polishing Products. During that time, the Flitz brand has become known as "The Good Stuff." Ask any user why they buy Flitz products and they will tell you, "Flitz just works the best".   Best Boat Cleaning Products Welcome to Shurhold's "One Handle Does It All!" system. This system quickly and easily allows you to snap over 40 different accessories to the same fixed length or telescoping handles. Shurhold understands that space is limited on your boat and storage is a premium. That is why these boat detailing products are designed to save you time, money and space. One handle on your boat can quickly snap to several different boat cleaning brushes, deck mops, or great boating attachments like a boat hook or paddle.   A More Efficient Way To Clean Swobbit is a more efficient way to clean. Swobbit offers a variety of products including washing brushes and tools, drying mops and cloths, water blades, scrub pads and plates, microfiber products and maintenance k its. The Swobbit System is everything you need to keep your boat looking as clean and new as the day you bought it.  

Pontoon Fender Lock Taco Marine introduces the latest in a line of accessories intended for easy docking along with safety and  convenience. Make your docking experience as effortless as possible. Quickly set your fender lines at the desired length off the side of your pontoon boat. The line remains at optimum length with the mounting pin attached. At the dock, you simply insert the pin into the fitting and your pontoon boat is protected with the fenders in their ideal position. Features: Stainless Steel Type 316 Designed for pontoon boats 1” diameter button Fits 1" - 1-1/4” square tube Nylon ring washer to separate dissimilar metals Mounting application fastens from the bottom of the square tube

    Boat Covers Carver boat covers are available in several categories to give the boat owner a balance between perfect fit and perfect price. Each boat cover category is available in a selection of carefully engineered fabrics to provide you with choices that are right for you and best for your boat.     Carver Quality in Personal Watercraft Covers High Performance protection in Custom Fit and Styled-to-Fit covers in a wide variety of patterns for the serious Personal Watercraft/Jet Ski owner! Carver takes pride in what they build so you can have the highest level of confidence when choosing a cover to protect your investment for years to come!     Kayak/Canoe Covers Carver's Styled-To-Fit and Specialty Kayak and Canoe Covers will keep your units clean and protected. Available in high-quality materials.   Specials    Closeouts    Remanufactured    Rebates  

SnapIt! Marine P001KR Pontoon Boat Single Drink Holder Single Drink Holder sized to fit can drinks with insulated sleeves and many mugs. I.D. 3.625” Overall Height 3.5”. Comes with universal mounting bracket which allows the use of a variety of accessories in one location. Mounting bracket permanently mounts to 1 ¼” square rail commonly found on pontoon boats. No drilling required. All mounting hardware included. Color: White.

Venta Extendable Pontoon Bow Roller Experience effortless anchor management with the Lewmar extendable pontoon bow roller. Designed for compatibility with the Venta pontoon anchor winch system, this bow roller features gas spring automation, durable stainless steel construction, and ultimate convenience for pontoon boat owners.  Effortless Anchor Management The Lewmar extendable pontoon bow roller is a game-changer in pontoon boat accessory innovation. Crafted with a stainless steel build, this bow roller ensures longevity and durability by preventing rusting, promising years of reliable service. Equipped with gas spring automation, it provides effortless operation, making anchor management a breeze for pontoon boat owners. Perfect for use with the Venta pontoon anchor winch (2022120902), this bow roller retracts discreetly to stow the anchor securely when not in use, preserving deck space and enhancing the boat's aesthetics. Seamless Integration for Enhanced Convenience Designed to seamlessly integrate with the Venta pontoon anchor winch, the Lewmar extendable pontoon bow roller offers unparalleled convenience and compatibility. Featuring the same mounting footprint as standard bow rollers, it provides an easy upgrade option for pontoon boat owners seeking to enhance their anchor management system. With automated deployment and retrieval, this bow roller simplifies anchor handling, streamlining tasks for boat owners and ensuring a hassle-free boating experience. Maximize Efficiency, Minimize Hassle Maximize efficiency and minimize hassle with the Lewmar extendable pontoon bow roller. Keep your anchor secure under the pontoon deck while enjoying the ease of automated deployment and retrieval. Whether you're a seasoned boater or new to the pontoon lifestyle, this innovative accessory promises to enhance your overall experience by simplifying anchor management and optimizing deck space. Invest in the Lewmar extendable pontoon bow roller and elevate your boating adventures to new heights of convenience and enjoyment. Features: Stainless steel construction prevents rusting Gas spring automation for effortless operation Retracts under deck to stow anchor securely and discreetly Easy upgrade with a standard mounting footprint Compatible with Venta™ pontoon anchor winch Durable Stainless Steel Construction - Crafted with stainless steel to prevent rusting, ensuring longevity and durability, promising years of reliable service for pontoon boat owners Gas Spring Automation - This bow roller facilitates smooth and easy anchor deployment and retrieval, minimizing effort and enhancing convenience for pontoon boat owners Secure Anchor Storage - Retracts discreetly under deck to stow anchor securely when not in use, preserving deck space and enhancing the aesthetics of pontoon boats Standard Mounting Footprint - The same mounting footprint as standard bow rollers offers an easy upgrade option for pontoon boat owners, simplifying the enhancement of their anchor management system Seamless Integration - Compatible with the Venta anchor winch, this bow roller makes it easy for pontoon boat owners to upgrade their anchor management system

Double Drink Holder sized to fit can drinks with insulated sleeves and many mugs. Interior Dimension 3.625”(2.9” at narrowest point)x7.85”. Overall Height 3.8”. Cutout on top ring can be useful for hanging sunglasses, etc. Comes with universal mounting bracket which allows the use of a variety of accessories in one location. Mounting bracket permanently mounts to 1 ¼” square rail commonly found on pontoon boats. No drilling required. All mounting hardware included.  Color:  White.

SnapIt! Marine P004CR Small Convertible 2 in 1 Drink Holder This is sized to fit can drinks or 20 oz plastic soft drink bottles. Space saving unit conveniently opens to hold two drinks when needed. I.D. 2.9” Overall Height 4.5”. Comes with universal mounting bracket which allows the use of a variety of accessories in one location. Mounting bracket permanently mounts to 1 ¼” square rail commonly found on pontoon boats. No drilling required. All mounting hardware included. Color: White.

Convertible 2 in 1 Drink Holder This is sized to fit can drinks with insulated sleeves. Space saving unit conveniently opens to hold two drinks when needed. I.D. 3.6” Overall Height 4.5”. Comes with universal mounting bracket which allows the use of a variety of accessories in one location. Mounting bracket permanently mounts to 1 ¼” square rail commonly found on pontoon boats. No drilling required. All mounting hardware included.  Color:  White.