Tag: lake life

Trotline Fishing: Fill Your Freezer

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

A trotline is a long rope or cord, used for fishing, which features with multiple hooks that dangle from it.

These lines require little attention or effort to maintain.

The wonderful thing about a trotline is that you are fishing without standing there for hours on end.

trout on trotline

You can put the line out and then in the morning go back to it for your fish.

As you take the fish off the line, you can replace the bait and throw it right back in the water!

Setting up Your Line

First, bait the hooks with the bait of your choosing. Live bait, such as worms, shrimp and minnows, usually work well.

After baiting each hook, simply attach one end to a tree limb or something similar on one side of the lake.

Next, extend the rope out to its full length, and tie to opposite end to a second anchor. Be sure the line is submerged in the water and not sitting at the surface.

Caution and Local Laws

Make sure to always clearly mark your trotline, as it can be dangerous to others who are swimming or fishing in the area.

You can mark these lines by attaching such things as plastic jugs to the anchor points to call attention to where you line extends to and from.

Many states have laws in place limiting how long a trotline can be out, how it has to be marked, and a limit to the number of hooks that can be used.

Check with your local game and wildlife ranger for more information.

Making a Trotline

The easiest way to get a trotline is to buy a pre-made one, like this one from Bass Pro Shop.

You can also create one out of rope, cord, and fishing hooks, dangling a hook from the rope every three to five feet or so. You can find easy, step-by-step instructions here.

Why a Trotline?

Trotlines are fantastic for catching a large number of fish in a relatively short period of time, particularly catfish.

These edible fish are perfect for throwing a big get together at the lake, such as a fish fry!

Or you can always filet and then freeze the fish, which can keep for up to six months and is an excellent source of protein.

 

How Living on a Lake Can Reduce Your Stress

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Research has shown bodies of water, including lakes, seas and oceans and rivers, can have significant positive impacts on one’s physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

These “blue spaces” as the article calls them, can reduce stress levels and increase feelings of happiness.

People who live close to lakes often experience a variety of these benefits including the following:

Privacy

Unlike noisy, overpopulated, and polluted cities, lakeside properties are generally more secluded and properly maintained to promote remoteness and privacy.

This is a great advantage for people who prefer to keep to themselves or are looking for a nice place to which they can retreat after a long day at work.

This privacy also often means homes are away from noisy highways and nosey neighbors.

Relax

SunsetWaking up and seeing a magnificent view is sure to please any home owner, but nothing quite parallels the breathtaking view of a sunrise over the lake.

The sound of water flowing or lapping against the shoreline is soothing, and is commonly used in mental health clinics and on sound machines for aiding sleep.

Unwind in the evening with a peaceful, colorful sunset and the tranquil sounds of crickets singing and fish rolling on the water.

Fun & Entertainment

Lake FunThe lake practically screams excitement.

With so many activities to choose from, from boating and fishing, to swimming and skiing, the lake is the perfect spot for some summertime fun.

Having guests over for entertaining is better at the lake too!

Many lake homes have giant decks, pools, or docks designed to accommodate large parties and are great for holiday celebrations and cookouts.

Health & Fitness

In addition to benefits mentioned above, living on the lake also gives you the opportunity to focus on your fitness.

By living on the lake you will most likely have easy access to activities such as canoeing, paddle boarding, biking, swimming, or hiking, which are all fun but also great cardiovascular workouts.

Lake living comes with many built-in benefits that can positively impact your mental and physical health and is a great way to reduce your stress levels. For more ways the lake can benefit you, check out our article about the healing affects of water therapy!

Boating License 101: Must-Know Boating Regulations

Posted on Staff

man, woman and child on boatHave you ever been in a boat with an operator that seemed a bit reckless and/or ignorant of seemingly obvious safety issues?

Has anyone ever admitted to you that they have a boating license but that their spouse, child or friend took the online test for them?

If so, you will be interested to know there are a variety of ways to educate yourself and others on common boat terminology, regulations and restrictions.

When it comes to water sports you can never be too careful so share your knowledge with anyone operating a boat.

State Boating License Requirements

Most states require boat operators to obtain a boating license prior to driving in the water.

Obtaining a state license requires you to pass a written or online test.

Although state regulations may differ slightly there are numerous requirements that are the same across the country from lakes to oceans and rivers.

There are only eight states that do not require a boating license in the United States. America’s Boating Course has the full list showing which states require and which do not require a boating license.

Vessel Versus Boats and Ships

Vessel is a catch all term for all types of floating devices designed to carry people or goods. Larger boats and ships are usually referred to as vessels more often than smaller boats.

Boats are small vessels propelled by oars, sails, or engines.

Ships are large vessels that usually carry boats as a safety measure.

What Boats Need Registered

Small non-powered boats such as canoes and kayaks do not require a boating license.

Sailboats, personal watercraft (PWC) and power boat regulations differ state to state depending on the engines horsepower and/or the size of the boat.

Basic Terminology

Make sure to know these common terms for boats prior to taking the drivers seat.small boat near dock with labeling letters around it

A. Bow – front of the boat

B. Stern – rear of the boat

C. Port – the left side of the boat when onboard and facing bow

D. Starboard – the right side of the boat when onboard and facing the bow

Hull – main body of the boat (i.e. bottom, sides and deck)

These terms are just the beginning of the detailed information on regulations you will need to know to pass your test.

Other important terms include certain lights and other items that help one to pinpoint the direction and location of your boat in the water.

Age Variations

Alabama requires that all operators 12 and over pass a boating license test unless they were born prior to April 28, 1954. Those born prior to this date need a vessels license but are exempt from taking the test.

Other states only require vessels license for those under the age of 16.

The minimum age that can obtain a license in a lot of states is 12 but others are 14.

The United States Coast Guard (USCG)  has a detailed listing of age restrictions, personal flotation device requirements, minimum passing scores and more useful information broken down by state.

Approved Online Test

The USCG link above provides information regarding which states allow and which do not allow online testing. All of the states reviewed for this article, Lake Homes Realty states, allow online testing.

This link also provides a lost of several boating courses and tests boat operators must take.

Cost of Courses and Tests

Most states require an online course be taken prior to taking the test. Boater-ed.com offers online courses with the final exam at the end.

Pricing for the course and test in Texas is $20 whereas pricing in most of the Southeastern states is $29.50.

Boater Exam also offers courses by state and the online test for around the same pricing.

Renewal Periods

The majority of states have no expiration date for boating license certificates.

Texas boating license are only valid for a year and Minnesota boating licenses expire at the age of 18 when the license is no longer required.

Boating License 101 Extra Prep 

For the overachievers, Boater Exam has 134 videos on YouTube that detail all of the information you will need to take a boating license exam and be safe operating your boat or PWC.

Why Boating Regulations Matter

For your safety and the safety of those around you the knowledge of boating regulations, standards, requirements and terminology is priceless.

Knowing boating laws makes you all the wiser and more prepared for any adventure you may encounter even when your state does not require you to obtain a license.

Lake Home Parties – Tips for Creating an Unforgettable Experience

Posted on Staff

A fun lake home party is not stressful when you organize, plan and prepare properly. Parties at the lake can create unforgettable memories for family and friend when you plan appropriately.

Prior to Party Prep

group of men and women in bathing suits dancing

Pick a party theme that correlates with the special occasion or time of year. Set a date and time for your guests.

To ensure optimal attendance send out a ‘Save the Date’ message via text, Facebook, and/or email as soon as the date is set.

If you are having a birthday party pick an age appropriate theme that the guests of honor chooses.

If you are having a party for another occasion, do your best to pick a fun, colorful theme that correlates well with the dreamy lifestyle of lake home living.

Lake Home Party

three kids catching air on a tube being pulled behind a boatSome parties require games and expensive rental equipment for guests entertainment.

A great lake home party will allow guests to enjoy swimming, boating, skiing, floating, paddling, sunning and any other sports the hosts already own equipment for.

Decoration Preparation

At lake home parties the main goals are spending time together and making memories while soaking in the sun and enjoying aquatic sports.

Keep decorations simple ~ the lake is picturesque enough. Take advantage of the view and let your lake home create the dream party.

Allow the scenery to naturally relax your guests and promote lake life conversations on the wonders of the lake.

Food Preparation

Unless you plan to spend your time maintaining food and refreshment areas be sure to prepare foods that take little to no attention after preparation.

toddler drinking from a water bottle One easy idea is a crock pot full of hot dogs. Simply add water, heat the dogs then turn the slow cooker to the keep warm setting when they are hot. Keep a cooler nearby with condiments for the dogs.

Single serving bags of chips and other easy single serving snacks will not consume your time during the party.

Have a few coolers with a variety of can drinks and make sure there is plenty of bottled water.

Be sure to have paper plates, napkins, plastic utensils and trash cans in a few places to decrease clean up time later.

On the Eve of the Party

Make sure to have everything you need so that you can start preparing for your guest arrival. If you have decorations, start hanging them the night before.

If you are making specialty drinks or foods make them the night before the party so you do not feel rushed the day of.

Do everything you can the night before so that you can spend time being a host to your guests rather than their cook or waitress.

Lake Home Parties Safety

To be sure everyone stays safe while having fun always have enough life vest and other required safety equipment. Lake Homes Realty has numerous safety articles you can read for more information on keeping your guests safe.

And if there’s a chance the party might last through the night, check out our “Lake Home Guests – Invite the Family for Extended Stays and Be Prepared” story for more advice!

Relax, have fun and take a lot of pictures to remember your lake home party fun!

 

Lake Home Essentials – Make Your Stay Convenient

Posted on Staff

Moving to your summer vacation lake home is easy if you have the essentials you need.

Be prepared and get organized to live conveniently at your lake home.

Kitchen

Spending quality time at your lake home means cooking utensils and supplies are necessities. Here are some things you will need in the kitchen to prepare food:

  • A can opener/bottle opener
  • Silverware, cooking knives, cutting board, wooden spoon, spatula and tongs
  • Oven mitts
  • Coffee and coffee maker
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Sponge and scrub brush
  • Dishes: bowls, plates, cups, pots, pans
  • Dish soap and detergent
  • Trashcan and kitchen bags
  • Corkscrew

Baking Items

If you enjoy baking, bring these items along for the pantry to save you a trip to the grocery store. You can cook quite a bit of food if you are well stocked with these items:

  • Recipe book
  • Glass cooking dishes and cookie sheetspie resting on chocolate decorated plate
  • Large mixing bowls, blender
  • Sugar
  • Salt
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Baking soda
  • Baking powder
  • Flour
  • Butter
  • Shortening
  • Vegetable oil, olive oil
  • Chocolate bits

Bathroom

It is important to keep a clean and orderly bathroom at your lake home. Here is a list of the things you will need:

  • Plunger
  • Soap, shampoo/conditioner
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, comb and brush
  • Bath mat
  • Towels, washcloths and hand towels
  • Scale
  • Small trashcan
  • Shower curtain, liner, rings (if applicable)

Living room

Your personal taste will determine some of the things you will want to bring to your lake home. A few essentials for the living room are:

  • Coasters
  • Board games
  • Table lamps
  • TV, DVD player, DVDs
  • Furniture and preferred décorwood-paneled bedroom with large window

Bedroom

It is always important to get a good night’s rest. Here are things you will want to remember for lake home comfort:

  • Bed, bed sheets, pillows and pillow cases
  • Hamper
  • Hangers for the bedroom closet
  • Side table and lamp
  • Dresser and clothes. Don’t forget the bathing suits and beach towels.
  • Full length mirror

Laundry room

Where ever you spend time doing laundry, you will need these items:

  • Laundry detergent, bleach and dryer sheets
  • Laundry baskets
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Small trash can

Cleaning Closet

To keep your lake home clean, you will want to store these supplies in a closet or cabinet somewhere:

  • Toilet brush and bowl cleaner
  • Rubber gloves
  • All purpose cleaner for glass, tile and wood
  • Stove cleaner
  • Mop and bucket, broom and dustpan

General Items for Around the House and Garage

Here are some essential items you’ll also want:

  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Extra batteries (different sizes)
  • Duct tape, scotch tape, electrical tapetools resting on wood
  • Wood glue
  • First aid kit
  • Tool set which includes: hammer, phillips and flat head screwdrivers, mix of nails, screws, and hooks, wrenches. A saw and sawhorses would be ideal.
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Hose
  • Rakes and outdoor leaf bags
  • Shovel
  • Large trash barrel
  • Sweatshirt, light jacket/rain jacket for cool and wet days
  • Bug spray and Sun block

 

Swimming Safety Tips for Lake Home Owners

Posted on Staff

Every lake home owner should know about swimming safety. As long as you remember these swimming safety tips ,the lake is your best resource for staying cool and relaxing on hot day.

Be Prepared for Swimming Safety

Before swimming in a lake, be sure to find out the depth and terrain of the area you in which you will be swimming so you can prepare accordingly. Some bodies of water my be three feet deep then drop sharply to 20 feet in depth.

swimming safety

Be sure to have enough coast guard- approved life vest for everyone who may need assistance to safely swim. Additionally, when choosing a a life jacket, consider the other water activities you may participate in while wearing it to make sure its the right one for you.

The Personal Flotation Device Manufacturers Association has a full listing and description of approved personal flotation devices (PFD). Additionally, when choosing a a life jacket, consider the other water activities you may participate in while wearing it to make sure its the right one for you.

Aside from floating in water, one must also be prepared for walking around in the shallow areas. To avoid  stepping on unseen items, such as a rock or glass, it is wise to wear swim shoes in the lake.

Learn to Swim

Everyone who lives by the lake should learn how to swim properly. Finding a trained professional for age appropriate swim lessons is crucial to swimming safety.

Enrolling your child in a swim course also allows them to interact with other lake-loving children around their age! But, if classes don’t seem like the best fit, you can always teach them yourself.

Use a Buddy System

Swimming is a sport that is best enjoyed with a friend.

swimming safety

Even the most skilled swimmers can run into unexpected difficulties, such as cramps or sudden fatigue, when swimming in lakes.

As a general guideline, children under 12 should never be around the water alone. Also, be sure to have a sober adult watching children at all times.

Teach Swimming Safety 

Make sure to set specific swimming safety rules around your lake home that apply to all family members and guest. It is a good idea to write these rules out and post them where they can be seen easily.

Teach everyone your rules, and be sure they understand breaking the rules violates their personal safety.

To get started, check out The America Red Cross’ detailed listing of useful tips and rules for safely swimming in lakes during the summer.

Lake Toys for Family Fun in 2016

Posted on Staff

Lake lovers can find summer fun in numerous ways with lake toys. Modern technology allows for a variety of lake toys ranging in price, style and size.

From boating, fishing, and skiing to inflatable water parks there are lake toys for everyone on the water.

Inflatable Pontoon Slide 

lake toys

Kids and adults of all ages can enjoy the fun of sliding into the lake from their boat.

These inflatable slides come with turbo air pumps and are easily attached to the side of your pontoon for hours of floating fun.

For more information and pricing click here.

Giant Water Mats

Whether you are interesting in jumping, playing, working out or being towed behind a boat you will love these mats.

These foam pads are safe, durable and do not require air to float.

Ranging in size from 150 feet long to 6 feet wide they can hold up to 3000 pounds.

To order and customize your water mat click here.

Sea-Doo Sea Scooter

lake toys

These scooters are perfect for little ones wanting to have some fun with lake toys.

They are also useful to scuba divers and those needing a quick float back to the dock.

Below are four of the scooters Sea-Doo offers:

  • The Explorer X has a battery that last up to two hours, can go 130 feet deep and 3.3 MPH.
  • The Auqua Ranger’s battery last an hour and will reach depths of 30 feet at 2.5 MPH.
  • The VS can reach a depth of 100 feet going 3 MPH and has a battery life of an hour and a half.
  • The Dolphin can reach a depth of 15 feet at 2 MPH and also has a battery life of an hour and a half.

For more information and pricing click here.

Inflatable Water Parks

Inflatable water parks are completely customizable. Lake lovers can choose from floating trampolines, rock climbing walls, bridges, cliffs, swings, slides and more.

For more information and pricing click here.

5 Reasons You Might Be From Lake Norman

Posted on Staff

Lake Norman, often referred to as “North Carolina’s Inland Sea,” is located only 20 miles north of Charlotte.

This body of water boasts more than 32,000 acres and 520 miles of shoreline, making it a regional marvel, one you are lucky to call home.

As a native, these Lake Norman-life facts will are sure to hit home.

Culture is easy to come by.

Aside from typical lake activities like boating, swimming and skiing, you love that you can feed your cultural side without driving to the city (although it’s only a quick trip by car.)

To admire local art, head down to the Cornelius Arts Center or take a stroll down the streets of downtown Davidson to see the work of the area’s numerous local vendors.

On the weekends, festivals and farmers’ markets set up shop in the areas around the lake. Local produce and specialty products are abundant.

The best part: You can only get them on the beautiful Lake Norman shores.

NASCAR. Fishing. Golf.

golf bag in foreground, golfer teeing off in back ground at sunset

Of course, these three things are listed in order of importance.

When you’re at the lake, you love the potential of running into your favorite NASCAR driver.

Many of the best drivers live around the lake because of it’s easy convenient distance from Charlotte, Mooresville and the Speedway.

You also love that living on Lake Norman gives you the best seat in the house for enjoying one of your favorite sports.

After a day at the race, there is plenty opportunity to relax, grab your fishing pole or even play a round of golf on one of Norman’s many championship courses.

Night Life.

The best way to wrap up a day at the lake is with live music, cold drinks and loved ones.

You, and the other locals, love frequenting the many pubs, diners and restaurants in the towns around the lake.

For a more upscale night, you love treating yourself to the North Harbor Club or Lake Norman Cottage Gourmet Food for a stunning waterfront view and some of the best food North Carolina can offer.

Did we mention fishing?

The lake is also known for some of the best fishing in North Carolina.

You love trying your hand at catching the various fish species like catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, striped bass, and yellow and white perch.

And who knows? You may even reel in a record-breaking catch!

And if you’re not a skilled angler, you’ll enjoy learning from the exceptional fishing guides over at Lake Norman Ventures or Huffy’s.

Down-home luxury.

Is there really such a thing?

At Lake Norman, gourmet food, southern hospitality and luxury amenities meet to create the ultimate lakeside experience.

The areas surrounding the lake range from multi-million-dollar estates to pastoral farmland, with everything in between.

You love that you can shop in a large, chain department store, and then visit the historic districts in the surrounding towns of Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville.

 

Interested in living on one of the most desirable lakes in the Southeast?

With more than 900 listings, ranging in price from $145,000 to $7 million there is sure to be a home that fits your needs and budget.

To find your dream Lake Norman home, contact our lake experts Erica Vaughan and Trish Greer.

 

You May Be From Smith Mountain Lake If…

Posted on Staff

Smith Mountain Lake, referred to by locals as “SML,” is a reservoir boasting more than 500 miles of shoreline in the Roanoke Region of Virginia.

The lake, which encompasses more than 20,000 acres, is nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in the rural southern part of the state.

You may be from Smith Mountain if you love the lake for its character, stunning scenery, and ability to make any day extraordinary.

Tree line and open sky over Smith Mountain Lake

And if the following list seems all too familiar, you are definitely from Smith Mountain Lake.

The area is rural but still connected to civilization.

Perhaps the best part about living on SML is being able to detach from the world among the mountains but still getting to enjoy world-class amenities.

The area surrounding Smith Mountain Lake has everything you could ever need: supermarkets, plenty of restaurants, banks, marinas, fitness centers, and libraries. There are also doctors, dentists, attorneys, and independent retail stores nearby.

What more could you ask for? And with large metropolitan cities close by, like Raleigh or Washington D.C., you know that SML is the best place to be.

Boating, Golf, Fishing…Oh My!

You know that the beauty of living on the lake is that there is an opportunity to both relax AND participate in any outdoor activity of your choosing.

Whether you want to spend the day boating, skiing, swimming, or fishing, Smith Mountain Lake always provides.

In fact, Bassmaster has rated SML in the top 25 best bass fishing lakes in the United States.

If you want to spend your day golfing with your buddies, try your hand on one of the lake’s five championship courses. You know that a day on the lake is whatever you make of it!

You eat your fill of America’s best ice cream.

Who would’ve thought that the best ice cream in America is located in the Roanoke Valley of Virginia? Well, while this is not a verified fact, you know that locals rave about Homestead Creamery’s ice cream.

The specialty frozen treat, as well as local dairy and meat products, are sold in a stand-alone store, a food truck, and also by the carton in local general stores and supermarkets.

As an SML resident, you love taking visiting friends and family to Homestead to give them a taste of what living in Roanoke is really like!

Boats are used more often than cars.

One of your favorite parts about living on the lake is that most restaurants can be accessed by boat.

What better way to cap off a day at the lake than piling into the boat and docking at Bay Roc Marina Cafe, Blackwater, Heath’s, or King’s Point?

Live music, lakefront view, and amazing food – where you live has it all!

Tours on tours on tours.

You’ll be the first to admit there are a great many touristy attractions around the lake…but you secretly love them. You even consider them to be a rite of passage to getting to know the area!

Aside from traditional lake activities, including great dinner cruises and fishing expeditions, popular off-water options include winery tours, visiting the local alpaca farm, and touring the birthplace of Booker T. Washington.

Catching a movie, playing miniature golf, and spending an evening at Hot Shots or Bridgewater Plaza are also some options you’ll want to consider when making your plans.

Interested in living on the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains?” With 1,295 current listings on Smith Mountain Lake, there is sure to be a home that fits everyone’s needs.

Homes on the lake range anywhere from $60,000 to $25 million, so why not find your dream home on one of the most coveted lakes in the region?

To talk to one of our many lake experts about living your lake dream, visit the Smith Mountain Lake page on lakehomes.com.