Starting a Competitive Fishing Team in High Schools and Colleges

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The thrill of casting a line, the patience as you wait, and the rush of excitement when you finally get a bite; fishing isn’t just a pastime—it can be a competitive sport. The idea of competitive fishing at the high school and college levels has recently gained traction. Here’s a step-by-step guide to starting a fishing team and shining a light on those already making waves.

 1. Research and Interest Check

Start by gauging the interest within your school. You can:

– Conduct surveys.

– Host informational meetings.

– Spread the word through school clubs or bulletin boards.

 2. Draft a Proposal

Once you have adequate interest, create a proposal. This should include:

– Purpose of the team.

– Estimated costs (gear, travel, registration for events).

– Proposed training and competition schedule.

 3. Get School Administration On Board

Present your proposal to the school authorities. Some things they might look for are:

– Benefits to students.

– Costs and possible funding sources.

– Alignment with school policies and values.

 4. Locate a Faculty Advisor or Coach

Like any sports team, having a faculty member who can guide and support the team is crucial, ideally someone with fishing experience.

 5. Fundraising and Sponsors

There are costs associated with starting a team, from gear to competition fees. Consider:

– Organizing fundraisers.

– Seeking local business sponsorships. Local fishing or sports stores might be interested – be sure to contact us if your school is in the greater Cleveland area.

– Applying for grants or scholarships to promote sports or outdoor activities in schools.

 6. Affiliation and Registrations

To compete, you’ll likely need to:

– Register with local, regional, or national fishing associations. They often provide guidelines for competitive fishing.

– Stay updated on rules, regulations, and events.

 7. Training and Preparation

Once set up, focus on:

– Regular practice sessions.

– Building teamwork.

– Developing strategies based on different fishing conditions and locations.

 8. Participation and Growth

After your team is established:

– Participate in local, state, or even national events.

– Encourage growth by recruiting new members each year.

– Continuously evolve based on experiences and feedback.

 Showcase: Teams Making a Splash

1. Bryant University’s Fishing Team: Located in Rhode Island, this collegiate team competes in various tournaments, including the Bassmaster College Series.

2. Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Bass Fishing Championship: A testament to the sport’s growth, IHSA has an annual championship, with many high schools participating.

3. Auburn University Bass Sports Club: This college team from Alabama has made a name for itself in various national competitions and inspires many aspiring fishing teams.

 Conclusion

Starting a fishing team can be both exciting and challenging. However, with the proper planning, support, and dedication, it’s an opportunity to turn a leisurely activity into a competitive and enriching experience. Embrace the thrill, nurture the passion, and who knows? Your school might reel in the big one!

We Offer Non-Locking, Easy Access Latches

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SL1000 S.S. dual function Lock Latch, with Plastic Handle

Regarding latches, there are many different options on the market. But if you’re looking for a non-locking latch that’s easy to access, we have just what you need.

Their LR800, SN1000, and CL316 latches are all designed to provide secure access without the hassle of a key. They’re also effortless to install, making them the perfect solution for various applications.

LR800 kid fishing dusk, LR800 non locking latch

The LR800 is ideal for live wells and bait wells. Twist the ring to open and close. Solid detent provides firm actuation. The arrow shows the direction cam is pointed.

SN 1000 non locking latch

The top strength and water-tight SN1000 is a non-locking latch ideal for storage compartment hatches and doors. It features a comfortable open-handle grip that is easy to use, even when wearing gloves. When not in use, the handle lies flush with the body. The SN1000 is made of engineered plastic composites and stainless steel materials.

CL316 SS D handle Compression latch with engineering drawing non locking latch

The CL316 boat stainless steel water-tight compression latch is polished to a mirror finish and designed for vertical surfaces (not water-tight on horizontal surfaces). Designed to withstand heavy use on hatches such as live wells. 

Features

  • Non-locking: These latches don’t require a key, making them easy to access for anyone who needs to get into the compartment
  • Easy to install: The latches are designed to be installed quickly and easily.
  • Durable construction: The latches are made from high-quality materials built to last.
  • Variety of sizes and styles: We offer a variety of sizes and types of latches to fit your specific needs.

Benefits

  • Convenience: The non-locking design makes it easy to get in and out without fumbling with a key.
  • Versatility: The latches can be used in various applications, from compartments, bikes, motorcycles, and cabinets to gates.
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To learn more about Sarasota Quality Product’s non-locking, easy-access latches, visit our website, fill out our contact form, or call us today!

We are a leading manufacturer of high-quality latches and locks. Based in Westlake, Ohio, we are fully committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products and service.

What to do if Lightning is Looming

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lightning, boat safety, storm, thunderstorm

Last week was National Lightning Safety Awareness Week, an excellent reminder to stay vigilant about the dangers of lightning, especially during these warm summer months when the fishing season is in full swing. It’s worth taking a moment to highlight the critical importance of understanding and respecting the power of lightning, especially when you’re out on a watercraft.

A lightning strike is one of the deadliest forms of weather-related incidents. According to the National Weather Service, hundreds of people are severely injured or killed by lightning strikes in the U.S. each year. Being out on a watercraft during a storm place you at an increased risk of being struck due to the lack of surrounding taller objects.

So what can you do to stay safe? Here are some steps to keep in mind:

1. Stay Weather-Aware

The key to avoiding lightning danger is preventative action. Regularly check weather updates and forecasts when planning your fishing trips. The NOAA Weather Radio, weather apps, and VHF marine radio are your best friends in staying updated. If there’s even a slight chance of thunderstorms, it’s better to reschedule your outing.

2. Know the Early Signs of a Storm

While modern technology provides accurate weather forecasts, things can change rapidly. Be aware of the early signs of a thunderstorm: increasing winds, darkening clouds, distant rumbles of thunder, or flashes of heat lightning in the sky.

3. Head for Shore

If you’re out on the water and notice signs of an approaching storm, head for the shore immediately. It’s not advisable to wait until the storm is upon you before taking action. If you’re near a marina, dock your boat, put everything in various compartments, lock them, and seek shelter in the nearest building.

4. Disconnect Electronics

Prevent them from getting fried by a possible lightning strike. Store them away in waterproof compartments.

5. Can’t make Landfall? Stay Low and Centered

Your boat becomes the only shelter available when you cannot reach land before the storm hits. Make sure your PFD is on and tight. Avoid touching the water, metal objects, or any electrical equipment.

Adopt a safety position. This position involves sitting or crouching low in the boat’s center, feet together, and hands on your knees. It reduces the potential paths for lightning to travel if it strikes the boat. Make sure your rubber-based shoes are on your feet.

6. After the Storm

Once the storm passes, check for injuries and damage. Look for electrical damage or potential fire hazards, especially if lightning strikes your boat.

Remember, the purpose of National Lightning Awareness Week is to educate, not to scare. As an angler, understanding the power and danger of lightning and knowing the appropriate steps can make the difference between a close call and a tragedy.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and let’s continue enjoying our time out on the water – safely!

Superior Stainless Steel Hinges You Can Trust

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In the world of hinges and hardware, many options are available for both professional and casual use. But if you’re looking for superior quality and exceptional performance hinges, our stainless steel hinges should top your list.

The Power of Stainless Steel

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Selecting and installing the right hinges can dramatically affect the functionality and lifespan of your fishing boat. One of the most recommended options today is stainless steel hinges, known for their durability, strength, and corrosion resistance.

Sarasota Quality Products provides a line of stainless steel hinges that epitomizes these advantages. These hinges are crafted with precision and expertise, ensuring they can withstand even the harshest conditions, particularly in marine environments. They maintain their integrity and function exceptionally well in environments where other hinge types falter, thanks to their natural resistance to rust and corrosion.

Flush Mount and Butt

flush mount hinge, hinges, stainless steel hinge

With our products, you’re guaranteed top-quality hinge butts designed with careful attention to detail. Our flush mount hinges are another exceptional offering providing a clean, streamlined look, perfect for any modern application.

Marine

These hinges are highly resistant to the corrosive elements of sea air and water. These marine hinges can handle the rough-and-tumble life aboard any vessel, maintaining their functionality and aesthetics no matter the circumstances.

USA-Made Quality

USA flag, USA company

As a proudly USA-based company, Sarasota Quality Products provides top-of-the-line products and top-tier service. When you buy from us, you’re supporting a local business that delivers the highest quality products while investing back into the community. Plus, you’re guaranteed excellent customer service, assuring a seamless shopping experience from start to finish.

Conclusion

Whether you fit out a new or used bass boat, the quality of the hinges matters. Choose Sarasota Quality Product. You can trust our expertise and dedication to quality for hardware, marine, and flush mount hinges—Sarasota Quality Products — where quality meets trust and customer satisfaction.

7 of the Very Best Boat Trailering Tips

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boat, boat trailer, boat trailering tips

Properly securing your boat to a trailer and ensuring a safe transport experience is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your watercraft. This blog post will discuss the best boat trailering tips, emphasizing The Key Captain Trim Engine Up/Down system. Learn how this tool can make your boat trailering experience safer and more efficient!

Choose the Right Trailer for Your Boat

The trailer should be designed for your boat’s size, weight, and type. A compatible trailer will protect your boat and make your trailering experience smoother and more secure.

Inspect and Maintain Your Trailer

Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as rust, damaged tires, or malfunctioning lights. Addressing these issues promptly will help prevent potential accidents and prolong the life of your trailer.

Load and Balance Your Boat Properly

Ensure the boat is centered on the trailer, with the weight evenly distributed. Improperly balanced boats can sway during transport, causing potential damage and increasing the risk of accidents.

Secure Your Boat with Quality Straps

Once your boat is correctly loaded onto the trailer, secure it with high-quality straps. Ensure the straps are tight and in good condition, as loose or damaged straps can lead to accidents or damage to your boat.

Utilize The Key Captain

The Key Captain, boat trailering, trim up, trim down

The Key Captain system is an innovative remote control device that simplifies boat trailering. The Trim Engine Up/Down feature allows you to remotely raise or lower your boat’s outboard or stern drive engine. This function is beneficial when loading and unloading your boat, enabling you to control the engine position without being physically at the helm.

With The Key Captain system, you can ensure your boat’s engine is in the optimal position for trailering.

Check Your Tow Vehicle’s Capacity

Before hitting the road, ensure your tow vehicle can safely handle the weight of your boat and trailer. Check the vehicle’s owner’s manual for its towing capacity and ensure it’s sufficient for your needs. Overloading your tow vehicle can lead to accidents and damage to your car and your boat.

Perform a Final Walkaround and Safety Check

Before leaving, perform a final walkaround of your boat and trailer to ensure everything is secure and in proper working order. Check the hitch connection, safety chains, lights, and tire pressure.

Conclusion

Boat trailering doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Remember that proper preparation and attention to detail are crucial for protecting your valuable watercraft and enjoying a worry-free trailering experience.

Order The Key Captain Today!

The Key Captain, Key Captain Electronic Locking System for boats and recreational vehicles

The Key Captain Is A State Of The Art Electronic Locking System Ideal For Bass and Other Fishing Boats. If You Need Someone To Walk You Through The Options, call us at  1-440-899-9820, Monday-Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm EST. Or let us know if you’d like to have it installed on a new boat or retrofitted onto your boat through a dealer near you

The Different Types of Bass Boats

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aluminum bass boat

There are several different types of bass boats, each designed with specific features and capabilities to meet the needs of anglers.

fiberglass bass boat

Fiberglass Bass Boats

This is the most common type of bass boat designed to provide a smooth ride on the water. They are typically 16-21 feet long, have a shallow draft, and are powered by outboard engines.

aluminum bass boat

Aluminum

They are often less expensive than fiberglass boats and are lightweight, making them easier to tow and launch. They are typically 14-18 feet long and powered by outboard engines.

pontoon bass boats, pontoon

Pontoon

These boats are designed with a large, flat deck and are ideal for fishing in calm waters. They are often used for recreational fishing and are equipped with livewells, fish finders, and other fishing gear.

fishing boat, bass boats, charter

General Fishing Boats

These boats are designed for anglers who want to fish for multiple fish species, including bass, walleye, and musky. They are typically larger than traditional bass boats and have more storage space and features for storing and organizing fishing gear. Often you will see these boats on a charter expedition.

boat show, boat, center console

Center Console

These boats are designed with a center console that allows the driver to access the controls and navigate the boat easily. They are typically larger than other bass boats and are often used for offshore fishing.

Get the Most Out of Your Fishing Experience

Now that you know how to pick the best bass boat, don’t rush. Take your time, compare the different models, and make sure your preferred boat features align with your specific angling needs. Happy fishing!

Most importantly, ensure your boat gear is safe and sound with The Key Captain!

5 Tips to consider when buying a boat

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boat, bass boat, The Key Captain, buying a boat

Any new boat – a bass, walleye, or pontoon – is a significant purchase. Here are five trustworthy tips to make a sound purchase decision.

Timing can make or break you.

boat fishing, bass boat, spring bass fishing, 2021 fishing trends, fall fishing, best bass boats, Crestliner boat, Sarasota Quality Products

So when is the best time to buy a boat? For most buyers, winter is the best time. According to Boating magazine, late fall also works because many dealers want to move their inventory.  

A general rule of thumb is that most owners and dealers are more willing to cut you a discount when business is slow, and they have several months to wait before any of their boats hit the water again.

Regional boat shows are rife with deals.

boat show, pontoon boat

Besides discounts on a massive selection of boats, you don’t want to miss out on the information you can gather at the shows. Discover Boating editors agree that boat shows are a quick and convenient way to familiarize yourself with manufacturers and compare their products. Many boat festivals invite you to bring the whole family and participate in a fun day of demonstrations, seminars, and activities. In northern Ohio, the next boat show will be the Sandusky Boat Show in August.

Shop local, but always shop around.

As with any significant purchase, don’t go with the first dealer you meet or buy the first boat you see. You will spend much time using your boat, so do your homework. Shopping around allows you to compare and contrast prices and models.

If you’re new to buying a boat, we recommend you shop within 50 miles of your home or marina. Deal with someone who’s been in the business a long time. A local dealer can talk with you about where and how you want to do your boating and make recommendations based on your wants and needs. Like a car dealer, the right boat dealer saves you time and worry.

Finance your boat through a marine lender.

If you’re going to finance your boat, you should always go through a marine lender, not a commercial bank. In finance, boats fall into a strange middle ground between a car and a home. Like cars, boats depreciate, but like vacation homes, the interest is usually tax-deductible,

Even though it’s a niche market, marine lenders are very competitive. So do shop around for the best financing terms you can find.

Enjoy the experience.

The most important thing is to have a good time. Don’t stress, and don’t rush. Savor the adventure, and let yourself fall in love with the right boat at the right time.

About Sarasota Quality Products

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We are based in Westlake, Ohio, and produce top-quality locks and latches for bass anglers, walleye fishers, and the occasional fishing person. We can ship The Key Captain, our signature product, to any US dealership or OEM for installation on your new or used boat. Give us a call, or send us an email if you need help with your product selection.

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