A Brief History of Rum at Sea

For centuries, sailors have shaped the cocktail scene. Although their standard fare didn’t quite match the modern Old Fashioned, the concoctions sailors developed decades ago influenced the way we currently enjoy alcohol. During the 16th century, sailors from the British Navy were given rations of beer and wine. However, the wine quickly turned to vinegar and the beer spoiled long before ships reached land. The introduction of rum from the Caribbean gave crew access to liquor that wouldn’t spoil, but the poor quality of the rum inspired the sailors to spice it to enhance the taste. When the rum rations were reduced in 1740, sailors were given sugar and lime to make up for the decreased quantity; the mixture became known as grog. Sugar and lime not only improved the taste of the drink, but the vitamin C also helped prevent scurvy. Grog was so popular that the drink soon spread beyond the sea to shore and inspired recipes that are still enjoyed today.

Classic Daiquiri
1½ oz. light rum
1 oz. lime juice, freshly squeezed
1 tsp. sugar or simply syrup

In a cocktail shaker, shake all ingredients well with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Dark ‘n’ Stormy
2 oz. dark rum
4 oz. ginger beer
½ cup ice

In an old-fashioned glass, combine rum and ginger beer. Add ice and stir.

Rum Runner
¾ oz. spiced rum
¼ oz. blackberry liqueur
¼ oz. crème de bananes
2 oz. orange juice
8 oz. crushed ice

In a blender, combine spiced rum, blackberry liqueur, crème de bananes, orange juice, grenadine, and crushed ice. Blend until slushy and pour into glass.

Tomorrow We Sail
3½ oz. champagne
½ oz. LBV port
½ oz. dark rum
1 tsp. triple sec

In a champagne flute, combine ingredients and garnish with a twist of orange peel.

By Susanna Botkin, Southern Exposure August 2016

H2O Infusion

When entertaining on the boat on a hot day, remember to keep your family and guests well hydrated. Water is always better than soft drinks, and infused water is fresh, delicious and pretty for serving. Most fresh fruits will work well as will frozen or drained canned fruit; also consider using the trimmings of watermelon, mango and pineapple to infuse water. Just wash them well before trimming, place trimmings in water, infuse for at least 4 hours, strain, and then serve. For each recipe, use half-gallon canning jars or a clear, plastic pitcher and let infuse for 4 hours and pour over ice. Refill the containers with water once or twice so that you always have a refreshing beverage on hand.

CUCUMBER LIME
Thinly slice one cucumber and one lime. If you don’t have a fresh lime, use a squirt of lime juice.

CITRUS BLUEBERRY WATER
Thinly slice two oranges. (Leave the rind on for stronger flavor.) Add 1 cup of blueberries.

PINEAPPLE MINT
Peel and thinly slice about 1/4 of a pineapple. The more thinly sliced the pineapple, the more flavor it will infuse. Add 5-6 leaves of mint.

WATERMELON BASIL
Combine 1 cup of finely chopped fresh watermelon (without rind) and 5 basil leaves.

STRAWBERRY LEMON
Add fresh strawberries, washed and sliced along with one sliced lemon with rind on.

GRAPEFRUIT RASPBERRY
Add two or three slices of thinly sliced grapefruit with rind on. Squeeze the rest of grapefruit and add ½ cup raspberries.

GRAPE AND ORANGE
Combine 1 cup of grapes sliced in half and one thinly sliced orange with rind on.

APPLE CINNAMON MINT
Combine 1 thinly sliced apple, and one cinnamon stick (not cinnamon powder) and top with a few mint leaves.

By Lori Ross

Signs it’s time to head back to shore

Summer brings the perfect conditions for a day out on the water. Whether you’re taking the boat out for a solitary cruise or showing friends and family that perfect snorkeling spot, there are plenty of opportunities to take a step back, grab a drink and soak up the summer sun. However, the start of summer also brings other changes in weather besides the heat—sudden storms can appear unexpectedly, placing you and your passengers in danger.

These days, checking the weather forecast is as easy as taking a quick peek at your smartphone for one of the many weather apps available or checking your onboard radar. However, the time-honored tradition of scanning the horizon can be just as handy when your cruising itinerary takes you outside the realm of cellular service. Keeping track of the cloud cover and how it changes is one of the best ways to make sure summer voyages remain safe and enjoyable for the entire crew. Here are some signs to help you determine if it’s time to head back to shore.

Clouds can appear in almost infinite configurations across the sky but can be separated into manageable groups. Determining which group those looming clouds in the distance belong to can help to ease worries about potential inclement weather. Different types of clouds have descriptive names that depend on their appearance. For example, the common cumulus cloud (which indicates fair weather) has a defined outline and dense texture while its sunlit parts reflect a brilliant white light. Stratus clouds are composed of a thick, light gray base layer. The sun is barely visible behind this type of cloud, which often indicates an upcoming light drizzle. Other clouds are based on their process of formation, so it’s important to keep an eye on their development in order to recognize potential hazards.

Predicting weather patterns can be as easy as asking a series of questions based on cloud formation. While scanning the skyline, ask yourself about the types of clouds you can see. Are they increasing or decreasing in volume and amount? Are they moving higher up into the atmosphere or moving closer to the surface of the water? Watch out for heavy, dense clouds with a vertical formation, such as the cumulonimbus, as these can signal approaching thunderstorms with strong winds. Mariners throughout the centuries have developed a few quick sayings, or proverbs, dedicated to remembering the signs of approaching storms. Here are some of the more popular ones:

Red sky in the morning, sailors take warning. Red sky at night, sailor’s delight.
A red appearance to the sky at night can indicate high-pressure systems and good weather ahead. However, a red sky in the morning can indicate high water content in the atmosphere as well as low-pressure systems moving in, meaning a potential chance of rain.

Mackerel skies and mares’ tails make tall ships carry low sails.
A few high-flying cirrus clouds signal fair weather. However, when they increase dramatically in number they create what is known as a mackerel sky, which carries the possibility of rain.

By Susanna Botkin, Southern Exposure June 2016

Marina Palms Yacht Club & Residences, North Miami Beach, FL

The all-new, full-service marina at Marina Palms Yacht Club & Residences is now open and features brand new construction at a prime location on the ICW in North Miami Beach, Florida. Designed for vessels up to 100 feet LOA, the marina and private boat club allow residents to experience the benefits of a waterfront lifestyle. The property’s former marina built on the shores of Maule Lake was a popular boating destination in the 1970s and 80s, but the facility fell into disrepair until 2013 when crew started clearing the marina basin for a current depth of 9′ to 12′. The dock system features two fixed dock fingers that flank the north and south side of the marina and a floating dock spine that cuts down the center of the basin. All 112 slips have electricity and fiber optic cabling for voice, data and high speed Internet. The fuel station and high-speed dispensers are fed from two 12,000-gallon tanks providing both diesel and gasoline service. A fulltime dock master, dockhands and a yacht concierge will arrange for vessel cleaning, maintenance, provision, and even plan entertainment for yacht owners. The marina is the centerpiece of Marina Yacht Club & Residences, a development that features two, 25-story condominium towers with 468 units. marinapalms.com

By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure May 2016

Southern Exposure’s Q&A: Kevin Dodge, Photographer and Diver

Underwater photographer and free diver Kevin Dodge combines his two passions— photography and diving—and presents unique shots of underwater life. dodgeocean.com

SB: How did you become interested in diving and photography?
KD:
I am a third generation native from South Miami and spend a lot of time in the Florida Keys fishing, diving and free diving. My father was a big diver as well; he even dove for treasures on different ships. When I was only two, I would hang on his neck before he would dive. He said that when he would go under I would splash on the surface waiting for him to come back for a breath so I could once again grab and hang on. My true love became free diving spearfishing from a very young age. I earned money as a commercial spearfisherman and continue to spearfish to this day. I went to Florida State where I played baseball and also modeled professionally for many years. In 1994, I switched sides of the camera and began shooting the models that I had worked with for years. Just a few years ago I decided to combine these two talents to produce something very unique, showing the ocean and its inhabitants in a way that has not been seen before.

SB: What inspires your art?
KD:
I am inspired by the sheer beauty and rawness of nature but at the same time showing it in a very artful way, through my eyes, which are filled with my love for the ocean. I take advantage of lighting angles, depth of perspective, etc. With my ability to free dive, I’ve been able to mix decades of professional photo experience and am able to capture images in a way few can. As far as holding my breath, I hold it as long as I need to capture that special moment. You have to be ready to shoot with your camera when the time is right…you never get a second chance to get that great shot while swimming in the world of marine creatures.

SB: How does it compare to being a “land” photographer?
KD:
I have had the pleasure of working with the world’s top companies: Hyatt Hotels, Bank of America, State Farm, IBM, Ford, Visa, Budweiser, Johnson & Johnson and many others. Shooting people was always much easier as you can communicate with them and you can always reshoot. While shooting underwater you have none of that with fish, especially when some of them are trying to kill you!

SB: What are your favorite spots to create your art?
KD:
My favorite spots to shoot are right here in our part of the world. You really don’t need to leave this area of the Florida Keys or Bahamas. With the Caribbean and Yucatán of Mexico, you have all you need right here.

SB: What do you enjoy most about being an artist?
KD:
Being in control of my time and having the ability to spend time with my children whenever I want. I love the challenge of trying to capture something very special, especially when it’s so hard to get. I also love the danger aspect of it all, such a rush! I always have to be aware of my surroundings, as I am a stranger in their world. The final enjoyment comes from watching others enjoy what you have created, which is by far the best rush of all.

SB: What are your favorite pieces?
KD:
The shots that I am most proud of are my swordfish shots because they are so dangerous and very hard to find. They are the meanest animals I have ever seen and most of the time will try to attack me. Recently a swordfish tried to kill me by spearing me in the chest. I grabbed his sword, pushed it down between my legs and grabbed the other end of his sword as it goes into his head and pushed him off after he charged me. I was beyond fortunate and knew I had escaped death. When I finally got into the boat I realized that I had a hole through my shorts right between my legs! I now have these shorts in a box frame and love to see people’s faces when I tell them this incredible story while they stare at the ripped shorts.

By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure May 2016

Carbon Marine Paragon Super Sport 28

Canadian custom yacht tender builder Carbon Marine’s new Paragon Super Sport 28 made its debut at the 2016 Palm Beach International Boat Show. Carbon Marine’s use of carbon fiber creates a hull that is stunning in appearance, lighter, faster, and stronger than a conventional fiberglass hull for top speed and superior fuel economy and range. A high efficiency Seven Marine 627-hp supercharged V8 outboard powers the Paragon Super Sport 28 to a top speed of more than 75 mph., and the profile changes the game for rough water handling in boats under 30 feet.

Specifications
LOA: 28′
Beam: 8’4″
Draft: 20″
Weight: 3,000 lbs.
Fuel: 130 U.S. gals.
Engines: Seven Marine 627-hp Supercharged V8 outboard
MSRP: $294,000

Contact:
Carbon Marine
14059 Mccowan Rd
Stouffville, ON L4A 7X5
Canada
cam@carbonmarineinc.com
carbonmarine.ca

By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure May 2016

Accon Marine Drink Holders

A relaxing day on the water involves warm sunshine, calm seas and a spot to rest a cold beverage. Accon Marine’s Drink Holders provide a safe space for cups and help prevent spills. Made from marine-grade 316 stainless steel or aluminum, the holders are offered in single and double models and measure 3½-inch in diameter to fit standard cup and can sizes.

An optional wine glass holder insert is also available. Fitting into Accon’s stainless steel bases, the holders are easily removed when not needed and can be snapped back into place. Each model fastens with two #10 screws.

MSRP single/double starts at $62.36/$76.12; acconmarine.com

By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure May 2016

Boston Whaler 250 Outrage

Serious angler

Boston Whaler unveiled yet another boat to the Outrage line, the 250 Outrage, a bold center console that made its debut at the 2016 Miami International Boat Show. Blending comfort and capability, the power fishing machine is designed to facilitate long, leisurely days on the water with family and friends. It features an ergonomically pleasing design with a full 360-degree of walkaround, high gunnels and thoughtfully placed handrails for security. Spacious, comfortable seating include a forward two-person lounge with armrests and additional opposite seating in the bow with a lot of elbowroom. At the helm, an optional deluxe seat upgrade features an adjustable captain’s chair and stationary companion seat. Aft, a convertible bench offers more great seating and folds cleanly away for maximum fish-fighting space. Anglers will value fishing features such as a large in-floor fishbox with overboard drain and dedicated 5-gallon bucket storage, gunnel-mounted rod holders, optional outrigger-ready hardtop with additional rod holders, and a standard deluxe learning post with a bait-prep area, dedicated tackle storage drawers, and a pressurized 30-gallon livewell.

Specifications
LOA: 25′ 5″
Beam: 9″
Draft: 20″
Weight: 5,350 lbs
Fuel/Water: 172/26 U.S. gals.
Engines: Twin Mercury 225 Verado 450-hp
MSRP: contact company

Contact:
Boston Whaler
100 Whaler Way
Edgewater, FL 32141
(877) 294-5645
bostonwhaler.com

By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure, April 2016

Torqeedo’s Cruise 10.0

Clean, green and quiet

Torqeedo’s new Cruise 10.0 is a clean, green and quiet electric outboard that’s simple to operate yet provides great speed, thrust and power.

The Torqeedo’s Cruise 10.0is an outboard DC motor and propeller provide up to 12kW at peak input and 10kW of continuous power. The 48V outboard delivers impressive performance while maintaining the simple handling and installation of a low voltage system. It comes with an integrated electric tilt, easily mounts to the vessel’s remote steering and is available in three shaft lengths.

MSRP $7,999; torqeedo.com

By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure, April 2016

Southern Exposure’s Q&A: Jake Cordero, Artist

When in South Florida, look for artist Jake Cordero’s vibrant paintings that convey his passion for cultures, nature and animals.

SB: Tell us about yourself and what prompted your creativity and art.
JC:
I grew up around the Davie Boulevard area in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. I believe my early exposure to the arts really sparked my creativity and my view of the world. I started art and music when I was 6 years old in a Broward magnet school. These magnet programs put different mediums in my hands and I haven’t stopped since.

SB: When did the marine world become part of your work? What was the attraction?
JC:
During my academic studies I had to work on the many “-isms” of art history, but being a native Floridian, the ocean was my backyard. I’ve always had something nature-driven in my personal sketches and paintings. Over the past few years, the unique, colorful, cultural style within my marine themes has had an amazing response and continuous demand and well received by my fellow Floridians as well as abroad.

SB: What was the boating industry like when you started compared to how it is now?
JC:
I feel the boating industry has exploded and keeps breaking new barriers. Every boat show I attend, I’m amazed at how many diverse vendors attend and how the quality and innovation continues to increase.

SB: What is your main objective when you are creating a work of art?
JC:
My main objective is to “say something.” Similar to the ocean, I like to dig slightly deeper than just a pretty picture. For my marine subject matter, the vibrant colors I use are as close to mimicking these beautiful creatures flourishing in their natural environment. I’m a guest in their world, and they don’t feel threatened by my presence. It’s pretty amazing when I get a close-up and the light rays hit their scales… Mother Nature is pretty incredible.

SB: What do you enjoy most about being an artist?
JC:
The challenges of innovation and creativity. I am constantly growing artistically and feeding off my surroundings. I get to test my creativity and hone new skills and the aesthetics of different mediums. The joy of getting better and better at my craft and creating a small window into my visions and artistic story is what it’s all about. Art makes people feel something. Whether they connect or disconnect, there’s still some type of reaction received.

SB: Tell us about one or two of your favorite pieces.
JC:
“Miami Sailfish” is a new release, which has yet to be seen by the public. I took a 25-year-old 7-foot sailfish taxidermy and completely refurbished it and gave it a new voice. This is by far the most unique taxidermy in the world. This was such a fun piece to bring to life.

“Octopus Element” began with reclaimed wood and making it truly unique. The wood was acquired from an old Florida Keys’ shack that was being renovated. I used several mediums, such as aerosol, acrylics and oils and wanted to interpret the strange but gorgeous underwater body gliding through our reefs.

SB: What are some projects you have coming up?  Anything exciting you’d like to share?
JC:
I’m always sketching and designing innovative imagery using various mediums. The end result of what I do is always painting. I paint carved wood, taxidermy, murals, surfboards, Converse Chuck Taylors… I’m really excited about two of my nature pieces being part of a new film. I received a call from NBC Universal Studios requesting to use two of my pieces in a scene for the Ice Cube and Kevin Hart sequel Ride Along: 2. I’m stoked to see how they used them in their scenes. It’s a great honor.

My works are always full of energy and passion. I’m very fortunate to be surrounded by a vibrant and colorful environment, which is clearly rendered in my works. You can see there’s an aboriginal-tribal pattern incorporated in each piece. This is majorly influenced by my love of all cultures, especially many of the primitive pioneers. Being a first generation American from Cuban-Russian parents, diversity has always been around me and I embrace it. Many native cultures create statues and artwork rendering their native animals (i.e. wolf, coyote, orca, bear, etc.) I’m from South Florida, so those animals are not really indigenous to my environment. I began designing the nature I see in my environment and it’s all been history since. jacobcordero.com

By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure, April 2016

Haulover Marine Center, North Miami Beach, Florida

Improvements are coming to a South Florida marina

Westrec Marinas Haulover Marine Center in North Miami Beach, Florida, has been getting a major makeover that is set for completion by spring 2016. Haulover Marine Center on the ICW at Bakers-Haulover Inlet is nestled between Sunny Isles and Bal Harbor, directly across from South Florida’s popular inland sandbar and one of Miami-Dade County’s nicest beaches.

Split into two sites—Haulover Marine Center on the northern end and Haulover Point at the southern end—the center, which provides dry storage for boats and personal watercraft, is getting a bevy of enhancements to its already long list of amenities.

To enhance and modernize Haulover Marine Center, Westrec is adding nearly double the dry storage with a new building slated to withstand a category 5 hurricane and offers 500 racks. The new five-rack-high dry storage building is designed to hold larger multi-outboard engine boats in the 30 to 50-foot range that are popular today and too cumbersome to trailer. The center will also have a new office, retail store and bathhouse.

Amenities:

  • Bait and tackle shop
  • Boat launching ramps
  • Boat rentals
  • Boat wash-down facilities
  • Charter fishing
  • Commercial slips
  • Electric maximum 50 amps
  • Fish cleaning area
  • Freshwater hookups
  • Gas and Diesel Fuel
  • Marine store
  • Pump out
  • In/out dry storage
  • Restrooms
  • Showers

Westrec Marinas
Southern Regional Office
801 N. E. Third Street
Dania Beach, Florida 33004
(954) 926-0300 ext 4
Fax: (954) 922-5485
Westrec.com

By Nathalie Gouillou, Southern Exposure, April 2016

Interview: Josh Kerrigan, owner, Yacht Management

Tell us a bit about yourself, your background, where you’re from . . .
I’m born and raised in Pompano Beach, FL. I grew up on the water. I had my first little boat when I was about 8 years old and loved it ever since. I’m a true native Floridian, both my parents grew up in Pompano also.

Tell us about the story behind Yacht Management, how did it come about?
I started Yacht Management as a result of my first job pumping fuel at a Marina in Pompano. A gentleman in the marina had a Sea Ray and offered me $20/week to keep an eye on it. That soon progressed into here’s $200/month can you keep an eye on it, wash it, make sure everything’s working ok, etc. He was my first client. I saw an opportunity with 49 other boats in the Marina to duplicate a similar program. I noticed all the subcontractors coming and going (divers, contractors, detailers, etc) and thought to myself why don’t I create a plan that encompasses all these things and streamlines all the above into a monthly maintenance program, that would make it easier for the owner. One thing turned into another and here we are today.

What attracted you to the marine industry?
The love of boating and just being on the water. I actually went to school to become a firefighter/paramedic, obtained my certifications but I always gravitated towards all things on the water which kept me in the industry.

What sets Yacht Management apart from others in the field? How did you accomplish this and how do you plan to continue to do so?
Yacht Management encompasses a wide variety of services that none of our competitors fully provide. We are a true “one stop shop” for yacht owners. With five marinas, two fuel docks, a full service boatyard and a maintenance division, we provide everything under a single umbrella. Our competitors simply do not offer the scope and breadth of service that Yacht Management provides. We handle everything from dockage, to repairs, to accounting and everything in between. We have all the resources and relationships in place. We can react faster to our client’s requests.

How has Yacht Management evolved throughout the years?
In 2001, Yacht Management consisted of one employee (me) and a single client on a monthly maintenance plan. Presently, Yacht Management employs seventy-three full-time employees and has one hundred and sixty vessels in its monthly maintenance plan. In addition, Yacht Management has five marinas under management or ownership control and two fuel docks pumping approximately one million gallons of fuel each year. In short order, we have become an industry leader in what we do and how we do it. We also work to remain on the cutting edge in terms of technological advancements in the yachting world and utilize the latest programs and resources not only for our clients, but also to streamline our own business on a daily basis.

Tell us a few things that specifically ignite passion and excitement about your job?
The boat owners. With 160 clients on a residual monthly maintenance plan and over 500 clients served on an annual basis the clients keep it interesting and keep us on our toes. Every day is different, We are always modifying our services to meet our clients’ needs.

What do you love most about what you do?
It’s exciting, I really enjoy the diversity in that no day is ever the same. It’s a 24/7 job, boating is something that’s in your blood and you get addicted to it.

Do you have specific examples you would like to share with us on how you believe your company has enriched mariners’ experience on the water?
Yes. We believe we’ve made it easier for owners to enjoy their time spent on the water, we take care of the rest. In several instances we’ve had clients join the program with smaller vessels and because of our program, within a few years, they progress to larger vessels.

Example – We had a customer that bought a 42 footer, he said he would’ve bought a larger boat but he was apprehensive about all the factors that come along with the larger vessel, crew, etc, However, as a result of our services he recently purchased an 80 footer.

What should we expect to see from your company this year?
Yacht Management is currently in the acquisition process of several new marina locations as well as expanding within the industry. We are in a growth stage. I’ve added key personnel to assist with this growth and look forward to a great year.

Are you involved with marine organizations? If so in what capacity, what are some of the responsibilities and what do you enjoy about them?
We are active members of the MIASF, The Fort Lauderdale Mariner’s Club, Florida Yacht Broker Association, and Young Professionals in Yachting and are becoming more involved with these groups.

How involved in the boating and marine community are you? Do you own a boat yourself? If so what is the name and make, and what do you love most about being a mariner?
Yes, I’ve been an avid boater since the age of 8, I try to get out as much as I can to enjoy fishing, cruising with friends, and diving. I also like to go to the islands at least once/year. Personally I own a 31 Contender that fits my needs my needs perfectly at the moment and I try to get out on it weekly.

 

Nathalie Guillou, March 2016 Southern Exposure

Anguilla’s Altamer Resort

First megayacht resort to come

Altamer Resort, a collection of beachfront boutique villas on Anguilla’s Shoal Bay West is set to get a megayacht marina. New York-based real-estate development firm Time Equities, which acquired Altamer Resort in 2014 announced plans for an expansion of the resort including a megayacht marina complex, which will be the first marina resort built in Anguilla with the highest level of concierge services. The marina will also serve as an official port of entry to the island, with 30 percent of its berths designed to accept yachts stretching between 30 and 200 feet. The new facility is slated to include a 164-unit resort, in addition to duty-free retail shops and a restaurant promenade. Time Equities is partnering with Anaconda Holdings and Cross Island Development to bring its plans to fruition.

“For nearly a decade, Altamer Resort has offered the finest world-class hospitality experience on Anguilla, and we are certain that with the involvement of Jeff Boyd, Chairman of Anaconda LTD/Marine Management and Consulting, along with Cross Island Development, we will collectively enhance that reputation,” said Francis Greenburger, chairman and CEO of Time Equities, Inc. “Altamer Marina will rival some of the most renowned facilities in the region and will not only position Anguilla as a choice destination among the luxury yachting community, but will meet the rising yachting, shopping and dining demands of high net worth individuals.”

Anaconda LTD and Cross Island Development have strong backgrounds in designing and building luxury yachting destinations such as The Yacht Club at Isle de Sol and Port de Plaisance in St. Maarten, in addition to Yacht Haven Grand in St. Thomas.

“We welcome this marina development project as an important enhancement of Anguilla’s tourism product. It is just what the doctor ordered,” said Anguilla Chief Minister Victor F. Banks. villaaltamer.com

Cobra Garage Door Storage Solutions

Nonpareil storage solution for your fishing rods

Give your finest fishing rods the same TLC at home that you reserve for them on your boat. The Cobra Garage Storage Rack uses your garage door as storage—a unique solution to keep your rods from being stacked up in a corner room, occupying precious space and risking damage. The Cobra rack is designed to easily clamp to a standard 21″ garage door panel, clears the hurricane/wind restraint bar and installs in minutes. Each assembly pair can hold up to 10 lbs. The assembly, made of high strength ABS manufactured in Florida, can also be hard mounted to the garage door panels or to walls and ceilings. The adjustable assembly fits the length of the equipment being stored from long beach surf rods, river rods and even garden tools. Store your rods in a safe and easy-to-access location keeping them readily available when the urge to catch that big one arises. Racks are available in 21″ (holds six rods) or 18″ (holds five rods). MSRP $30; cobrastorage.com

A second view of Cobra’s Rod and Reel Storage unit.

Nathalie Gouillou, March 2016 Southern Exposure

Action Craft 19 ACE

Serious fishing platform

The 19 ACE Convertible from Action Craft is the boat anglers can use to fish for largemouth one day and pole the flats for bonefish the next. Bass seats can be removed in very little time for a sturdy, full size, folding poling platform to be mounted. The 19 footer is built to catch fish. The large fore and aft decks and generous 13″ gunnels provide room for serious action. Storage abounds, including room for oversized equipment and fly rods, a built-in cooler compartment and an anchor locker, all with air strut lids. It comes with two LED-lighted and plumbed livewells, and a large insulated fish box for a total of 85 gallons. An 8′ Pro Series Power-Pole, 6″ jack plate, console metal rod holders and poling platform rocket launchers are all standard. When it’s time to put in some serious miles, the 19 ACE has a wide bench seat that offers room for three. With full-width storage beneath, it folds down to fit flush with the deck for increased fishing space. All hardware and fittings are stainless steel, while surfaces are covered in SeaDek.

Action Craft 19 ACE has a pole fishing boat.

Specifications:
LOA: 18′ 11″
Beam: 7′ 6″
Draft: 9 to 11″
Fuel: 45 U.S. gals.
Engines: 150 hp
Top Speed: 63 miles
MSRP: $55,300

Contact:
Action Craft Boats
830 NE 24th Lane, Unit C
Cape Coral, FL 33909
(239) 574-7800
actioncraft.com

Nathalie Gouillou, March 2016 Southern Exposure

 

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