Wednesday, 09 September 2015 00:00

Fall Boating Perks

Fall is approaching and it will bring the somber end-of-summer vibes with it. Pack away your swimsuit, enjoy your tan while you have it, and kiss the warm weather goodbye - but whatever you do, don't send your boat in for storage just yet. Summer boating is nearly impossible to compete with, but that doesn't mean fall boating should be overlooked completely; it's still good for something

It's good for your game
With a change in location and bait, fall can be a great time for bass fishing. The colder weather and water temperatures will coax the bass into shallower waters. It's best to use bait that does well in shallower waters: crankbait, spinner bait, or jerkbait to list a few. Because bass are more aggressive in the fall, preparing for cold months with little feeding ahead, they're willing to work for their food - so it will be especially beneficial to use lures that look like the shad that they're feeding on. Regardless of what type of bait you are using, try and mimic the shad with the color.

For some, especially Michiganders, fall is just as exciting as summer. September rolls around and it's finally that time again - bird hunting; another perk to boating in the fall. Waterfowl, birds that frequent the water, can be easier to spot when you're out on the water. Most hunters can hunt on foot, but not all hunters have a boat to go out on - going out on the water can give you an upper hand.

It's good for you
Many enthusiastic boaters view boating as a stress relief or a way to unwind after a long week. With that in mind, fall boating does not disappoint. While they may not provide hours of soaking up the sun out on the water the way summer does, fall boating trips still aren't too shabby. It's not the most popular boating season of the year, so the colder weather can provide some roomier waters as well as more peace and quiet. Don't get me wrong, it's a great feeling being out on the boat with fellow boaters scattering the water, exchanging the occasional wave and head nod as your boats pass each other - but sometimes you need a little extra room to unwind. Not to mention the scenery. There isn't a lot that can compare to autumn leaves surrounding you with their reflection hitting the water. 

It's good for your boat
Even just taking your boat out for a couple rides in the fall can be beneficial. Fall can be a popular time for the beginning of winterizing, but sometimes you need that one last trip out on the water. The last trip can not only help with the looming separation anxiety that you and your boat are about to experience, but it can also help your boat stay in good shape while sitting in storage. When storing you boat for a long period of time it is best to do so with an empty gas tank, might only take a couple of rides to do so. While taking it out for the last ride, pay attention to how it's running. Catching a little problem before putting your boat into storage can prevent it from turning into a big problem over time.