* Slower speeds on the water will reduce fuel usage. 

* Proper use of trim tabs reduce drag, especially while accelerating up to planing speeds. 

* Minimize the amount of time that you idle at the dock 

* Minimize the use of onboard generators. 

* Use dock-side electrical power in lieu of generators. 

* Have a float plan so you know exactly where you’re going. 

* Make sure the hull is clean. 

* Don’t under-power your boat. It’s important you have enough motor to handle the load. 

* Check your propeller. If your boat is slow "out of the hole" or lacks top-end speed, you might have the wrong propeller. 

* A well-tuned engine uses less fuel.

* Use the grade of gasoline specified by the engine manufacturer.

Keep your engine well tuned to prevent fuel and oil leaks. Secure an oil absorbent pad or pillow in your bilge and under your engine where drips may occur. Check the pads often, do not let them clog the bilge pump, and dispose of them as hazardous waste at a marina or local hazardous waste collection center.

Spill-proof your oil changes

For oil changes, use an oil change pump to transfer oil to a spill-proof container. Wrap a plastic bag or absorbent pad around the oil filter to prevent oil from spilling into the bilge.

When fueling, stop the drops!

Prevent fuel spills by filling fuel tanks slowly and using absorbent pads or rags to catch drips and spills. Don’t "top off" or overflow your fuel tank. Leave the tank 10% empty to allow fuel to expand as it warms.

Do not add soap

Never use soap to disperse fuel and oil spills. It increases harm to the environment, and it is illegal.

Minimize boat cleaning and maintenance in the water

Reduce toxic discharges from bottom paints

Minimize the discharge of heavy metals found in soft-sloughing antifouling paints by using a less toxic, or nontoxic antifouling paint. Use only non-abrasive underwater hull cleaning techniques to prevent excessive paint discharge. Remember, dry storage reduces the need for antifouling paints and saves money.

Dispose of hazardous waste properly

Dispose of paints, batteries, antifreeze, cleaning products, oil, oil filters and other hazardous wastes at a hazardous waste collection facility or event.

Plan A-head! Manage sewage wastes properly

Never discharge sewage within 3 miles of shore. Use harbor pump-out stations and shore-side facilities. If you don’t have an installed toilet, use a port-a-potty and empty it at a harbor dump station or bathroom.

Stow it, don’t throw it!

Keep your trash on board. Never throw cigarette butts, fishing line, or any other garbage into the ocean. Take advantage of shore-side facilities to recycle plastic, glass, metal, and paper.

Reduce Greywater discharges

Use a phosphate-free biodegradable soap to minimize the impacts of greywater on the marine environment. Also minimize discharge by doing dishes and showers on shore whenever possible.

Popular boating search tags:

• www boatfinds com

Become scentless

Stay away from junk fish

Change fluorocarbon after a fight

Pick the right lure depending on depth

Anglers should be aware that a fish’s best vision occurs at the surface. The moment you go past 50 feet in most coastal waters, the color spectrum becomes much narrower. Use your colorful lures near the surface, and your whites and darker lures in deeper water where bottom fish key on contrast, not on color. Keith Jones, director of fish research for Berkley

source Boating Life

Installing bulkheads and cabin soles. Accommodation; number of berths verses expected number of crew. Cabin soles. How many heads? Designing and equipping a galley. Various fuels for your stove (gas, diesel, alcohol, paraffin). Placement of sink and stowage of food and other stores.

Building in Steel or Aluminum - Part 2

Overview; Building from scratch verses Building from a kit. Detailed text, photos and illustrations showing the various methods of sail and powerboat boatbuilding in Aluminum, Multi-chine steel, Round bilge steel, Radius chine steel. Building the shell; hull, deck and cabin construction. Avoiding corrosion in steel and aluminum boats. Specialist tools required.

Building in Steel or Aluminum - Part 1

Overview; Building from scratch verses Building from a kit. Detailed text, photos and illustrations showing the various methods of sail and powerboat boatbuilding in Aluminum, Multi-chine steel, Round bilge steel, Radius chine steel. Building the shell; hull, deck and cabin construction. Avoiding corrosion in steel and aluminum boats. Specialist tools required.

Building in Fiberglass Part 4

Detailed text, photos and illustrations showing the various methods of sail and powerboat boatbuilding in Fiberglass Sandwich, Single skin fiberglass, Male & Female moulding. Building the shell; hull, deck and cabin construction. Specialist tools required.

Building in Fiberglass Part 3

Detailed text, photos and illustrations showing the various methods of sail and powerboat boatbuilding in Fiberglass Sandwich, Single skin fiberglass, Male & Female moulding. Building the shell; hull, deck and cabin construction. Specialist tools required.

Building in Fiberglass Part 2

Detailed text, photos and illustrations showing the various methods of sail and powerboat boatbuilding in Fiberglass Sandwich, Single skin fiberglass, Male & Female moulding. Building the shell; hull, deck and cabin construction. Specialist tools required.

Building in Fiberglass Part 1

Detailed text, photos and illustrations showing the various methods of sail and powerboat boatbuilding in Fiberglass Sandwich, Single skin fiberglass, Male & Female moulding. Building the shell; hull, deck and cabin construction. Specialist tools required.

Budgets and Planning

Initial planning and calculations of how much will it all cost. How to save money and keep within your budget. Budgets for building maintaining your boat. VAT certificates. EU Norm- The rules and how to comply. Chartering your boat. The KISS factor. Overview boatbuilding materials and methods, Fibreglass construction, Metal boatbuilding including Steel and Aluminum, Wood Epoxy, Plywood and traditional timber boatbuilding.

The Choice of the Construction Material

Wanting to build a boat but don't know what material to use for her?

Great fishing tips for the all-purpose fisher

1. Glue your bait

2. Downgrade your bait for bigger fish

3. Pack a Sharpie

4. Drag your line to a couple yards behind your boat

5. Tune your crank bait

6. Don't be afraid to use a grub

7. Let your bait hit the bottom

8. Mimic animals with your lure (grub, frogs, shad, ect.)

9. Find the food, find the fish

10. Handle fish with care

source Boating Life

New to sailing? Learn from this quick review of the sailing basics!

1. Choose calm, uncrowded waters

If you’re just starting to master sailing basics and learn how to sail, then one of the most important beginner sailing tips to remember is to practice in ideal conditions of light winds and low traffic. 

2. Choose a small boat to learn how to sail

It’s easier to learn how to sail with fewer lines and sails. A small dinghy will be more responsive and easier to maneuver, and is also perfect for practicing test capsizes in (see tip #7 below). 

3. Begin on a boat rigged with one sail

Similar to the above, beginning on a boat that’s rigged with just one sail will make learning sailing basics easier and less complicated. 

4. Follow sailing basics for safety

There are certain sailing basics for safe boating that should go without saying, no matter what your level of expertise. These include always telling someone before you go out on the water, always bringing a flotation device and knowing in advance how to swim. For additional information, please see our safe boating pages. 

5. Research tide, wind and weather conditions

Check the weather forecast so you can be prepared for whatever the weather might bring. Be sure to bring along adequate provisions, clothing and basic weather gear as needed. Boating and sailing basics means always being prepared. 

6. Become familiar with sail control

The best sailors are the ones who are able to adjust sail settings to take the best advantage of different wind and water conditions. In general, sails should be relatively flat when the wind is either very light or very strong, and full when there is a moderate wind. 

7. Capsize on purpose

This may seem like one of the oddest beginner sailing tips we could suggest, but it’s better to practice how to handle a capsized sailboat within a controlled environment, as opposed to an uncontrolled one. We learn best from experience, and the valuable sailing basics you’ll pick up from going through a test-capsize in a small dinghy will serve you well in the event of a real-life one. 

8. Respect the boon

Some of the most common sailing injuries are a result of not being aware when the boon is about to swing. To avoid a bump to the head, or even worse, being knocked overboard, one of the most important beginner sailing tips to always remember for both passengers and crew is to be conscious and respectful of the boon at all times. 

9. Learn basic sailing terms

Before you venture out on your first trip, be sure to acquaint yourself with basic sailing terms. Make sure you know the difference between port, starboard, and other important concepts. 

10. Practice makes perfect

Don’t try to teach yourself all the sailing basics. Invest in a good sailing course, research guides and books, and learn from friends with experience.

source Discover Boating

Air Boats

Air boats offer an exciting opportunity to see and fish locations no other boat can reach and are most frequently used in marshes of the southeast, bogs of the upper Midwest and shallow river areas.

MINI AIRBOAT Sale Price: US $3,000.00 Click for more details

All-Purpose Fishing Boats

Built for many activities, such as freshwater fishing and salt-water fishing, these family fishing boats are capable of pursuing many species, including bass. They tend to have higher freeboard than bass boats because they spend more time in rough water.

NEW 24 FT FISH AND FUN TAHOE AVALON PONTOON BOAT WITH FULL CAMPER Sale Price: US $14,999.00 Click for more details

Bass Boat

Bass boats have low, sleek profiles and are built to fish with two or three anglers on board. The minimum length of bass boats starts with 16 feet and can go up to 26 feet.

16 BOAT TRAILER W \ FREE BASS BOAT 65 HP MERCURY NO RESERVE Sale Price: US $480.00 Click for more details

Bowrider Boats

These family boats are the most popular in the runabout/spotboat category and are equipped with extra seats and forward access to the bow, a convenient spot to relax and sun.

2005 Tahoe 254 Bowriderrunabout deck boat no reserve Sale Price: US $21,000.00 Click for more details

Center Console Boats

These open fishing boats are built to take rough offshore waters in pursuit of ocean fish. Rod holders, outriggers and other gear are common fittings onboard.

NO RESERVE 20 SEACRAFT Classic 1972 Potter Built Boat Center Console Vintage Sale Price: US $9,500.00 Click for more details

Closed Bow Runabout Boats

Closed Bow Runabouts are fast and ideal for smaller crews who enjoy the sleek sports car look. These boats are great for watersports activities.

SKI BOAT 16 FT OPEN BOW 128 HPCOBRA WITH TRAILER AND COVER RUNABOUT Sale Price: US $2,840.00 Click for more details

Cruising Sailboat Boats

Cruisers provide the fun of living on the water with the convenience of sleeping, cooking and plumbing facilities. Large enough to serve as a second home at sea, they are popular choices for weekend vacationers.

2004 Formula Boats 330 SS Sun Sport 33 Cruiser Fresh Water Trailer More Sale Price: US $55,100.00 Click for more details

Cuddy Cabin Boats

These are great day cruisers and overnighters for small groups and family boating. Ideal for skiing, tubing and wakeboarding, they are most often powered with sterndrive engines, but outboard power is becoming popular, too.

1989 Well Craft Classic 19Ft Cuddy Cabin Boat Clean W trailer No Reserve Sale Price: US $1,525.01 Click for more details

Day Sailer Boats

Smaller in size they are designed for short trips on the water to nearby destinations. Many sail them just for the fun of using the wind’s power for propulsion. At about 20 ft., day sailers often include a small cabin or "below decks" area for dry storage.

Open Bic sailboat 2009 Sale Price: US $2,199.00 Click for more details

Deck Boats

Deck boats have wide deck to carry 8 to 12 or more passengers (like pontoons) but look and perform more like runabouts. They are powerful, too, making them excellent boats for skiing, tubing and wakeboarding.

2005 Four Winns 264 Funship Deck Boat Sale Price: US $29,500.00 Click for more details

Dinghy Boats

These small crafts are usually less than 10 feet in length, easy to carry on a car top or light enough to carry on board a cruiser. Great for use off the beach, or around the harbor.

Vintage Dyer Dink 10 ft Fiberglass Sailing Dinghy Sale Price: US $1,500.00 Click for more details

Dinghy Sailboats

Built to carry one to two boaters, dinghies can offer wet rides and are fun for learning to sail on smaller, less turbulent waters. Some allow the sail and mast to be stowed so they can be rowed as well.

Vintage Dyer Dink 10 ft Fiberglass Sailing Dinghy Sale Price: US $1,500.00 Click for more details

Electric Boats

Electric boats are becoming more popular for easy cruising on smaller lakes. While some boats are built primarily for electric power, fishing boats and pontoon boats are increasingly propelled by electric motors.

2008 Smoker Craft 18 Pontoon Tan and Blue Sale Price: US $10,500.00 Click for more details

Fish and Ski Boats

This craft allows boaters to enjoy the two most popular on-water activities; fishing and skiing. This family fishing and recreational boat has enough power to pull a skier or two, and to get to the fishing spot in short order.

2008 AIR NAUTIQUE 216 SKI BOAT Sale Price: US $29,340.00 Click for more details

Flat Boats

These boats are popular in costal areas where sea trout and redfish live. They can float and run in water less than two feet deep and are ideal for fishing with two to three people on board.

1963 17 Spico V Drive Boat Flat bottom Sale Price: US $1,000.00 Click for more details

Folding Boats

These boats make ideal craft for strapping to a motor home, or sometimes, checking as airline luggage. They are nimble, inexpensive and built to provide a long life of boating fun in fishing and touring.

2000 SHALLOW DRAFT 24 CUSTOM FLATS BOAT COMPLETELY REDONE 10 FOLDING TOWER Sale Price: US $24,995.00 Click for more details

Heavy Welded Boats

Heavy welded boats are emerging as a new and more durable metal boat, it’s a good alternative for fishing boats, runabouts and even some cruisers. These lighter boats perform well with smaller engines, saving fuel.

1993 Discovery 16 Aluminum Boat 1988 Venture trailer 1996 Mercury 25hp Sale Price: US $3,200.00 Click for more details

Houseboats

Houseboats are designed to offer lake house living on the water complete with spacious floor plans and modern amenities for entertaining, dining and sleeping.

44 Trojan Yacht Powerboat Houseboat Boat Crusier Sale Price: US $37,000.00 Click for more details

Inboard Cruiser Boats

Inboard cruisers are powered by inboard engine, these boats "throw" a perfect wake for very serious wake boarders. With the engine set back against the transom, seating is more comfortable and open like a bowrider.

Open Bow Inboard NO RESERVE Classic Collector Restoration Project Fiberglass Sale Price: US $250.00 Click for more details

Inflatable Boats

Inflatable boats range in size from 8-foot dinghies for tenders to 30-foot high performance boats. These boats are suitable for saltwater and freshwater fishing, watersports and more.

2005 Brig Inflatable Hard Bottom Dingy Sale Price: US $2,900.00 Click for more details

Jet Boats

Jet Boats are like bow riders and deck boats, they offer comfortable seating and sunning areas, plus a speedy and exciting ride. They are distinguished from runabouts by their propulsion system, which is enclosed inside the hull.

SUNKISST JET BOAT 468ci CHEVY BIG BLOCK 900 HORSE POWER W 250 SHOT NITROUS Sale Price: US $6,800.00 Click for more details

Jon Boats

A Jon Boat is a multi-purpose camping, freshwater fishing and hunting craft, typically aluminum and powered by a small to moderate outboard. They may be customized with added fishing features like trolling motors and driver consoles.

NEW 2010 TRITON 2070SC FISHING DUCK HUNTING JON ALUMINUM BOAT Sale Price: US $14,988.00 Click for more details

Motor Yachts

Motor yachts are ideal for ocean cruising or navigating large rivers or the Great Lakes, as well as entertaining at the dock. Two engines, usually fueled with diesel and a generator for electricity make them self-sufficient in terms of living accommodations.

44 Trojan Yacht Powerboat Houseboat Boat Crusier Sale Price: US $37,000.00 Click for more details

Multi-Hull Cruiser Boats

Multi-hull cruisers, also known as catamarans, a wide, airy main cabin is the trademark of these cruisers along with lots of deck space for sunning. They are fuel-efficient and are excellent for long-range cruising and island hopping.

16 ft hobie catamaran with trailerreduced Sale Price: US $500.00 Click for more details

Multi-Hull Cruising Sailboats

Multi-hull cruising sailboats are like cruising sailboats, these are designed for long-range travel and offer spacious accommodations. Their stability and easy sailing characteristics make them popular as rental or charter boats.

2003 Sunfish Racing Sailboat Vanguard Sail Boat Sale Price: US $2,000.00 Click for more details

Multi-Hull Day Sailer Boats

Multi-hull day sailers, also Called "catamarans" when they have two hulls and "trimarans" if they have three, these boats come in a variety of sizes. They are light and fast, and some styles have popular racing circuits.

Multi-Hull Power Boats

Multi-hull power boats (Catamarans) are the most popular multi-hull boats and are usually offered as an alternative to center consoles. Most catamarans are designed for hardcore angling, but some models offer recreational and cruising amenities.

1999 26 GLACIER BAY TWIN YAMAHAS TRAILER CATAMARAN POWER BOAT Sale Price: US $5,100.99 Click for more details

Performance Boats

Performance boats are the sleek sports cars of the boating world, offering high speeds and precise handling to boaters who prefer their thrills full throttle. Marrying big horsepower with sleek hulls results in boats that are equally at home slicing through ocean swells or tearing up inland lakes. Cranking offshore or simply relaxing in a cove, performance boats deliver lots of smiles per hour.

Lake and bay boca grand one of a kind high performance Sale Price: US $4,050.00 Click for more details

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats give families with younger boaters a secure place to enjoy the ride or toddle about when at anchor, thanks to wide decks and "lay pen-like" side rails and gates. When equipped with larger engines they can be as quick as runabouts.

20 ft Grand Island pontoon boat Sale Price: US $7,999.00 Click for more details

Racing Sailboats

Racing Sailboats are usually 20- feet in length with sleek hulls, an open cockpit with sparse seating. They usually lack living quarters because they are built as light as possible for maximum speed and offer an exciting sailing experience.

Open Bic sailboat 2009 Sale Price: US $2,199.00 Click for more details

Sedan Bridge Boats

Sedan Bridge has all the style of a sport fishing yacht, but exchanges a tuna lookout tower and fishing amenities for more deck space and swim platform. They have ample living accommodations including an electrical generator, AC and plumbing.

1988 Sea Ray 345 Sedan Sale Price: US $25,500.00 Click for more details

Sportfishing Boats

Sportfishing boats are great for pursuing large fish. Often equipped with sleeping berths, a galley for cooking and plumbing for convenience, they have the capacity to stay on the water for days.

53 Ocean Yachts Super Sport Fishing Boat Sale Price: US $150,000.00 Click for more details

Stern Drive Cruiser Boats

Stern drive cruiser boats are great for freshwater fishing, watersports, cruising and much more, these boats have all the comforts expected from recreational cruising boats including sleeping, cooking and plumbing equipment.

2000 Monterey 180 Edge bowrider with trailer 135 fresh water hours V6 volvo Sale Price: US $8,650.00 Click for more details

Trawler Boats

Trawlers have facilities for sleeping, cooking and plumbing provide boating fun for weekends on the water with family and friends. They can handle big rivers, lakes and oceans on moderate days.

Grand Banks Trawler 1971 Sale Price: US $89,000.00 Click for more details

Walkaround Boats

Walkaround boats may be the ultimate family fishing boats and are most popular in coastal waters, large bays and the Great Lakes where anglers pursue salmon or offshore ocean species. They are equipped with rod holders, livewells and steps to the forward deck to make it easy to follow a big fish around the boat.

2006 Trophy 2002 Walkaround Sale Price: US $30,000.00 Click for more details