When I first bought my jon boat, I didn’t even think about navigation lights. To me, boating meant heading out early in the morning and being back before dark. But after a couple of late evenings chasing catfish and realizing I was coming back in low light, I knew I needed to make my boat … Read more

When I first bought my jon boat, it didn’t take long to realize I needed more seating — and more storage. Instead of cluttering up the deck with a cooler and a separate chair, I decided to combine the two and turn an ice chest into a seat. I started with a 48-quart cooler that … Read more

I used to think spark plugs were “one size fits all.” I learned the hard way that picking the wrong ones can cause rough starts, poor idling, or even engine damage. The first thing I check is the manufacturer’s manual for my outboard. Mercury, Johnson, and Yamaha all have specific plug recommendations. I also pay … Read more

If you’re like me, your boat sometimes sits for weeks — or even months — between trips. That’s when fuel stabilizers become your best friend. Without them, I’ve dealt with gummed-up carbs and sluggish performance. I’ve tested a few brands over the years. Sta-Bil has been my go-to for long-term storage because it keeps fuel … Read more

Carburetor problems used to drive me crazy. My 2-stroke outboard would sputter, stall, or refuse to start at the ramp. Nine times out of ten, it came down to dirty carbs. At first, I grabbed whatever carb cleaner was cheapest at the store. Big mistake. Some left residue, and one even damaged a gasket. After … Read more

I remember the first time I bought a Mercury outboard — I had no idea I was supposed to flush it after running in saltwater. A buddy of mine set me straight, and since then it’s become part of my post-trip ritual. Here’s exactly how I flush mine at home with nothing more than a … Read more

One afternoon, I hooked up my Mercury to flush it after fishing and… nothing. No water coming out of the telltale. My heart sank, because that little stream is your motor’s lifeline. Here’s what I’ve learned about troubleshooting when your Mercury won’t flush water. Most of the time, it’s something simple like clogged muffs or … Read more

When I bought my first truck cap, I thought I’d solved all my fishing storage problems. Then I realized my rods were either getting tangled or broken bouncing around in the bed. After a few snapped tips, I got serious about finding a better solution. Here’s what’s worked for me. I’ve learned the hard way … Read more

Hobie, Scott, yak attack railblaza rod holder 2nucanoe fly reel dock DIYno drill Where should I put rod holder on kayak?How do you make a kayak fishing rod holder?How do you store a fly rod on a kayak?Where do you mount a Scotty rod holder?What size PVC fits in kayak rod holders?How do you make … Read more

What life vests are good for kayaking?Is it safe to kayak with life jacket?Are inflatable life vest good for kayaking?What is the difference between a life jacket and a life vest?How do I choose a PFD for my kayak?What is a paddling vest?Is Stohlquist a good brand? also onyx and chinookWhich is Better nylon or … Read more