Tag: boating

Online Spotlight: Lake-Link: “Beyond The Water”

Posted on Staff

Lake-Link

 

 

The Midwest’s largest site dedicated to fishing!

Lake-Link provides fishing reports, topographical maps, a lake database and message boards and much more!

Additionally, the site features articles, fishing tips and tactics, moon charts. 

Outdoor enthusiasts from New York to the Dakotas have a valuable resource in Lake-Link, a website with everything from fish reports and boating equipment bargains, to forums on camping and archery.

This site also allows anglers to buy discount bear bait online (Lake-Link’s tagline is “Beyond the Water.”)

Lake-Link offers visitors customized outdoor information and resources across 12 states from the eastern seaboard to the Rockies.

For sale-priced j-plugs, tales of the meanest walleye, on-demand outdoor radio shows and more, visit www.lake-link.com.

Waterfront Dining on Fort Loudoun Lake

Posted on Staff

If you visit or live on Fort Loudoun Lake, Tennessee be sure to check out these great restaurants, some of which are located right on the water.

You can even reach all of them by boat!

Calhoun’s Restaurant

calhouns ft loudoun waterfront diningLocated right on the lake, just above Ft. Loudoun Dam, this waterside venue even offers boat parking!

The deck features a tiki hut with a limited menu, and you can find live music played many nights during the warmer months.

Inside the restaurant you will find a menu that features a little bit of everything,  from BBQ to typical bar food.

For those looking for an adult beverage, the bar is stocked with all your typical spirits, and you can even find local beer, crafted from the Smoky Mountain microbrewery, on tap.

Calhoun’s is also family friendly and has a kid’s menu featuring items such as grilled cheese and chicken fingers.

Lakeside Tavern

lakeside tavern patio by lakeLakeside Tavern features fabulous views of the lake, whether you are sitting on the outdoor patio or one of the many large window tables inside.

The menu is an eclectic mix, covering everything from hand cut aged angus steaks, to brick oven pizza, to salad, pasta and beyond.

Another favorite at this location is the weekly Sunday brunch, which includes specials on Bloody Marys and Mimosas as well as an assortment of breakfast and lunch menu items.

Lakeside Tavern, like the others, can also be reached by land or by water.

Willy’s Bar and Grill

willys bar and grill knoxvilleWilly’s Bar and Grill offers a friendly hometown atmosphere with a tasty menu.

You can arrive by car or by boat, and enjoy seating inside or outside on one of the decks overlooking the water below.

The menu here features your traditional bar food fare.

During football season stop by and watch the Tennessee Volunteers play football on the projector screen, or stop by on karaoke night and sing along to your favorite tune!

Willy’s is pet friendly, and one interesting item you will find on the menu is the “Rex Special,” a combination of hamburger meat, hotdog meat, and traditional dog food served up for your four-legged friend.

Sorry bipeds, this one is for dogs only!

Dockside Grill

dockside grill louisville landingDockside Grill is another great location featuring karaoke and live bands during the warm months. Located at the Louisville Landing Marina, feel free to stop by boat, car, or foot!

The menu at Dockside Grill features many traditional burgers and snacks, but is best known for the seafood platters and sandwiches.

Many of these restaurants have limited hours or may even close during the winter months, so be sure to visit their websites and give them a call before making plans to visit!

Do you have a favorite restaurant or watering hole on the lake? If so comment below and let us know about it!

 

 

 

Visit Us at the 2016 Atlanta Boat Show!

Posted on Staff

2016 Atlanta Boat Show LogoAnother year, another boat show!

This year the Atlanta Boat Show runs from January 14 – 17,  and we would love to see you there!

Lake Homes Realty corporate staff and local expert real estate agents will be available throughout the entire show and look forward to discussing all things lake living.

In the past two years, we have met hundreds of lake lovers, marveled at the best in class boats, and met vendors for all kinds of lake related items, and this year should be bigger than ever!

Thinking About Buying on the Lake?

If you are thinking about buying a lake home, we want to make the process as easy as possible!

LakeHomes.com now has more than 32,000 properties for sale across 200+ lakes.

We will have local, specialized lake agents from states across the South, including Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina!

Some of the lake expert agents who are attending will be from lakes including Lake Lanier, Lake Jackson, Lake Allatoona, Lake Martin, Lake Hartwell and more.

Our agents know the ins and outs of their lake market and will be more than willing to help you find a lake property that best fits your needs.

2015 atlanta boat show lake homes realty booth
Lake Homes Realty booth from the 2015 Atlanta Boat Show

Talk to Us about Your Lake Experience

Have you used LakeHomes.com to find a property or used a Lake Homes Realty real estate agent?

We want to hear about your experience! Stop by the booth, and tell us your story.

Or, even if you have not used our services, just drop by, and tell us all about your lake experience.

We always love to hear about your lake, and why it is special to you.

What to Do at the Show

The Atlanta Boat Show is an annual event held at the Georgia World Congress Center and features more than just boats for sale.

This year’s Kid Zone will feature face painting, balloon art, a bouncy area, trout fishing and other kid friendly events.

For the older kids (like mom and dad!) there will be attractions such as the Miss GEICO speedboat, a giant aquarium for bass fishing, a sailing simulator, live music and so much more!

There will also be educational opportunities and special classes on DIY boat maintenance and repair, as well as other topics such as fishing and boat safety.

The Show Schedule

The show will be 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. this Thursday (1/14) and Friday (1/15), 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday (1/16), and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday (1/17).

The event takes place at the Georgia World Congress Center, hall C.

Lake Homes Realty will be located in the same space as the last 2 years, in booth 332. We look forward to seeing you there!

 

 

 

Birmingham Sailing Club on Logan Martin Lake

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

The Birmingham Sailing Club is located on Logan Martin Lake near the Logan Martin Dam.

Regattas, which is a series of boat races, are held at the end of the week on Saturdays and Sundays. There are also major races held at different times throughout the year.

This is a private club that is located 40 miles east of Birmingham. The organization is dedicated to:

  • Providing programs for its membersBirmingham Sailing Club logo in red, white and blue
  • Promoting Sailing, as well as sailboat racing with members
  • Promoting safety out on the water
  • Encouraging a friendly atmosphere for all social activities

BSC History

Before 1960, sailing was almost unknown as a sport in the Birmingham area, except for a few enthusiasts who were willing to travel for two hours or more in order to visit North Alabama.

The club was incorporated in June, 1963 with 44 Charter Members. Many of the members had very little sailing experience, with Sam Caldwell serving as the first Commodore, or leader of the group.

Today, the club boats nearly 150 members.

Importance of the BSC

The Birmingham Sailing Club offers many educational course, events and fun with racing.

There are educational courses that take place at this club including Junior Sailing classes and general classes. The Junior Sailing Camp is open to children who are 8 to 17-years-old.

Each child learns how to or improve basic sailing skills while using Optimist sailboats, Club 420’s and Lasers.

The wonderful thing about the club is that they not only offer classes for the young ones but for adults as well.

They also hold safety classes on the water to help ensure that there are no accidents with their members.

If you are a beginner to sailing, and you want to give sailing a try, sign up for the next course or contact the education lead, Jack Rogers, to register.

His contact information is as follows:

Jack Rogers
205.979.1831
education@birminghamsailingclub.org

If you have sailed before and you want to get in as a crew member or even a skipper, then contact Laura Graham. Her contact information is as followed:

Laura Graham
205.215.4344
commodore@birminghamsailingclub.org

If you are interested in becoming a member of this club, you will need to apply for the membership.

In order to do this you will need to contact the membership board at: 205.960.6534 or email them at: membership@birminghamsailingclub.org.

For more information visit their website at here.

 

Boating and Propeller Safety

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Did you know that a typical 3-blade propeller runs at 3,200 rpm? It can inflict 160 impacts each second.

A typical propeller from recreation vessel can travel from the head to the toe on a person in less than 1/10 of a second.

However, most of the propeller accidents can be avoided by following these guidelines for the best in propeller safety.

Measures of Prevention

boat propeller

There is an engine cut off lanyard that can be clipped and worn on a life jacket. If the lanyard is pulled from the switch, the engine shuts off automatically.

You should also have a person keep watch of the propeller area to ensure that people are a safe distance from it while in the water.

Safety Tips

  • Before you start the engine, walk to the back of your boat to ensure that there is no one near the propeller. People that are in the water may not be visible from the wheel.
  • Never allow your passengers to board or even exit the boat from the water when the engine is running. Even when it is in idle or in neutral, the propeller may spin.
  • Educate all of your passengers about the location, as well as the danger, of the propeller.
  • Call attention to, as well as discuss, any labels around the boat.
  • Be alert when you are operating the boat in congested areas. Never enter any swimming zones.
  • Take additional care when you have a skier being pulled behind your boat.
  • Never permit any passengers to ride on the gunwale, bow, seat backs, transom or anything that is not specifically designed to be a seat. They may fall overboard.
  • Children should always be watched very carefully.
  • Establish rules for the swimming platform, seating and boarding ladders.
  • If someone should fall overboard, stop immediately. Keep the person in sight, and move extremely slowly. Assign another passenger to continuously monitor the person in the water. Turn your engine off, and then you can bring the person on board.

Safety Equipment that Should be Used

  • Wireless Cut Off Switches
  • Guards for the Propeller
  • Ringed Propellers
  • Interlocks
  • Sensors
  • Anti-Feedback Steering

Propeller Guards Include

There are many different models of propeller guards.

No matter what brand it is, when you have a boat that you take your family on, you need a guard or cage to ensure that no one receives any injuries or worse.

Here are a few of the guards that are available.

  • Holton Marine Ltd: It is a ring guard that has holes in the side of its ring and bars to the rear of it.
  • Hydro Shield: This is a type of propeller guard that is mounted below the prop.
  • LyfGard Propeller Deflector: This is a deflector propeller guard.

For more information check out this safety pamphlet from the United States Coast Guard by clicking here.

 

5 Toys You Need for Your Pontoon Boat

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Having a pontoon boat will open up a whole new world of fun for you and your family. There are many different activities that you can do on a pontoon boat, and if you purchase amazing add-ons you can add even more fun to the experience.

Click on any of the links below for more information!

pontoon boat on the lake

Pontoon Fire Pit

Even though you can already fish, cruise, camp and ski on your boat, you can also add a fire pit.

These fire pits, fueled by natural propane, offer yet another way to relax an evening on the lake, particularly during cooler weather.

Pontoon Lighting

Lighting that can be put under the deck offers illumination for nighttime barbeques and parties. Though not something you will use every time you’re on the water, these lights create the perfect ambiance for a night ride.

The lights mounted to the underside of the boat will make the water glow with amazingly vibrant colors.

Your pontoon lights can even be used to liven up the mood the next time you have a party on your dock!

Mounted Barbeque Grill

There are numerous options for boat mounted barbeque grills. Most options offer a mounting unit with an accessory pole that fits into the same hole where you would put a drink table.

These on-board grills offer a way to cook for your family and friends without having to leave the water. All you have to do is throw some hotdogs and hamburgers on the grill while everyone is swimming!

Diving Board

Half the fun of going out on the pontoon boat is getting to swim. Why not make a splash out there by purchasing a pontoon diving board?

Boards come in various sizes, which can be securely fasted to the boat and used like a regular diving board.

Before taking the first plunge, make sure you check for debris in the water and to ensure that the water is deep enough for safe diving.

Slides

Whether you want a permanent fixture or one that you can put up and take down as you please, there is a pontoon slide out there for you.

Slides can be made of metal or strong plastic and attached to the boat itself for unlimited fun. But if some occasions don’t call for such adventure, say a leisurely cruise along the shore, purchase an inflatable attachment.

These can be blown up and used, and then when it is time to pack it up for the day, the slide is deflated and can be packed away to offer more space.

 

Forget the Fancy Bass Boats, Get a Pontoon Boat!

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

You will never find a better boat to relax on. If you combine the floor plan and the amazingly luxurious seating, it is almost like having a living room on the water. A pontoon that measures 25 feet is able to carry 15 people, and at times even more very comfortably.

Pontoon Boat
Pontoon Boat

The same size of other boats of different styles does not include the same amount of space for the passengers. You would have to squeeze by each other when trying to move. It is more like riding in a car. With pontoon boats, you have floor space to walk, barbeque, and host parties.

If you are out for some sun, you can leave the top off, or if you are one that does not like to be in direct sunlight, leave the top on. The boat is extremely versatile when having fun out on the lake.

There are numerous models that include great features like a galley, live well, recliners, coolers, and a table to eat at or play cards on. They also include a ladder from the water to the floor. This way you can dive into the water and climb back up when it is time to rest.

Newer models also include stereo systems that offer external audio jacks, which allow the hook up of an mp3 player or iPod. Some even have USB ports.

There is a lot of space that will enable you to store water toys and other personal items. You can even purchase a camping enclosure to allow you to spend the night out on the water. There is even models that offer portable toilet with a privacy wall. Here are events that you can host on a pontoon boat:

With a pontoon boat, the options are endless. Imagine being able to spend an entire day that wraps up swimming, picnics, barbeque, music, and more all in one outing. The fun is overwhelming and the memories will last a lifetime.

Measurements Versus Passengers

If you are unsure of what size pontoon boat you will need, here is a guide to help you. Remember to include the typical people you take on your outings, for example; your kids. Then make sure there is extra room for other family members or friends.

  • 2-6 People: 18-20 Feet
  • 6-10 People: 22-24 Feet
  • 10 or more People: 24 Feet or Larger

Activities

Here is a list of activities you can plan for you outings. They will depend on what type of outing or event you will be hosting and how many people will be passengers on the boat.

  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Cards
  • Barbeques
  • Cocktails
  • Skiing
  • Tubing
  • Camping

No matter how many people you have with you, you will be sure to have fun. Ensure that you purchase a pontoon boat that will accommodate your entire family, plus a few more to make sure you can hold small get-togethers whenever you like.

 

A Beginners Guide to Sailing – Sailboat Terminology

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

If you are ready to take on the wonderful and relaxing world of sailing, then you will need to learn a few things. Here you will learn the most used terminology that you will hear and soon be using yourself.

Boating Terms

  • SailboatAbeam: This means something lies at the right angle from the boat. Example: The buoy is abeam from us.
  • Aft: The portion of the vessel behind the middle area of the vessel
  • Ahead: This means in front of the boat. Example: The land is ahead.
  • Astern: This means behind the boat. Example: The competition is astern.
  • Beam: This is the widest part of your boat. Example: The boat’s length is 50′, but the beam is 14′.
  • Boom: This is the horizontal pole that extends from the bottom of the boat’s mast.
  • Bow: This is the front of the boat.
  • Crew: These are all those who participate in operating the boat.
  • Forward: This is toward the bow.
  • Freeboard: This is the height of your deck above the water.
  • Helmsman: (also called helmsperson) This is the one that steers the boat.
  • Lee and Leeward: (Pronouncing: “lee” and “loo ward”) This is downwind.
  • Port: 1 – This is the left side when you are looking forward. 2 – This is a window in the side of your boat. 3 – Location where boats and ships dock.
  • Rudder: This is beneath your boat. It is a flat piece of wood, metal, or fiberglass that is used to steer it.
  • Running Rigging: This is all of the lines that control any part of your sails, which includes the sheets, outhaul, and halyards.
  • Skipper: This is the person who is in charge.
  • Standing Rigging: This is all of the wires or the cables that hold up the mast.
  • Starboard: This is the right side of the boat when you face forward.
  • Windward: This is towards the wind.

Sailing Tips for Beginners

Now that you are aware of the typical terms used while sailing, here is a list of tips to help you when you are a beginner.

  • Choose un-crowded and calm water when you are beginning.
  • Pick a smaller boat.
  • Use a boat rigged with one sail to start.
  • Follow all sailing basics for the safety of you and your passengers.
  • Research the wind, tide, and weather conditions.
  • Get familiar with the control of the sails.
  • Capsize to ensure you know how to manage should it happen for real.
  • Show respect to the boom.
  • Memorize the terms.
  • Practice as much as possible.

Learning to sail is very exciting, but make sure to take all rules, regulations, and safety information very seriously!

Poker Run on Lake Martin, AL Benefitting Sheriff’s Girls Ranch

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

If you love poker and you are free on June 13th, 2015, then it’s time to get registered for the Sheriff’s Girls Ranch Poker Run on Lake Martin. The event kicks off at 9 AM and will be a fun event benefitting a great cause. On top of that, you may even win a prize!

sheriff's girls ranch poker run on lake martinThe winner of the poker run receives $5,000, and there will also be a drawing for chances to win the following:

  • Yeti Cooler from Custom Trucks Unlimited
  • $500 Gift Card for Holley’s Home Furnishing
  • Hybrid Wake Board from Singleton Marine
  • Neo 15′ x 6′ Water Pad from Sam’s Club

You can support the Alabama Sheriff’s Youth Ranch Poker Run by becoming a participant in the amazing event. There are limited tickets available that are for sale for $450 and tickets are tax deductible. Each year this event raises over $10,000 for the Sheriff’s Girls Ranch.

Live entertainment will be provided by River Dan at the the final stop. Stops on the poker run include:

  • TK’s Texaco – Store 19
  • A.R.E. Park
  • Car Stereo Shop – Floating Marina at Chimney Rock
  • Harbor Pointe Marina at Stillwaters
  • Tiki Hut – Really Fun at Jim Price’s House
  • Bay Pines Marina for the final stop and live entertainment.

For more information and for tickets click here. For more information about the Sheriff’s Girls Ranch visit their website by clicking here.