Tag: lake living

Things to Consider For First Time Boat Buyers

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Boats of different kindsWhen you are looking for the ideal boat, there are lots of things to consider before you make the purchase.

A boat is a significant investment. You don’t want to squander your money on a boat that is not right or suitable for you. Buying a boat is not complicated either, but you do need to do your research and prepare before making your purchase.

So to help you, here are some things to consider as first time boat buyers:

The Type of Boat

The first thing you have to take care of is the actual type of boat that you will be using. This concerns the type of activities that you will be doing in your boat as well.

Will you be, for instance, sailing, fishing, skiing, or wakeboarding in your boat? Depending on how you answered, you may be looking for a sail boat, bass boat, pontoon, or something that meets in the middle.

The Brand of the Boat

There are thousands of manufacturers and models of boats in the market. Finding a suitable and reliable brand can be confusing for many people who are not affiliated with the market. Research about brands of boats is very important. This it will allow you to purchase a boat that is perfect for you.

Look at brochures and compare the prices of the boats online and read reviews about a particular brand or model of boat that you are considering before you seal the deal.

A Used or A Brand New Boat?

You will need to answer this question in order to purchase the right boat. This is generally associated with how much cash you are willing to spend on your boat.

A new boat will obviously cost you more money, but should not require as many repairs or maintenance costs. Used boats can be found at bargain prices and in good condition, but will usually require much more intensive shopping and research to ensure a good deal.

A Private Seller or A Dealer?

You will also have to consider this factor when you are purchasing a boat. Most people expect to pay less when dealing with a private seller. Dealers will add their own costs on top of the original price of the boat.

However, dealers are less likely to sell you a lemon without any issues, while securing a boat privately may end up with you having a boat that needs frequent repairs. Purchasing a boat from a dealer will also allow you to acquire a warranty for the boat. This option will not be afforded to you from a private seller.

The key point to remember for boat buyers is to put in the time and do your homework before making the purchase, every step of the way. From how you plan to use the boat, to expected prices, and even boat maintenance so you can check out your craft before you buy!

Tips for Keeping Your Lake Pollution Free

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Relaxation at lakeFor those who currently own property on the lake, you probably  know the importance of keeping it clean and pollution free.

Not only does keeping it clean help maintain a balanced eco-system, but it also adds beauty to your neighborhood and your home.

In addition, it also keeps the nearby surroundings fresh and free of bad odor. These can occur due to dead fish or algae growth. To help make sure your lake stays as clean as possible, just follow these easy tips for keeping your lake pollution free!

Maintain Your Boat Engine

Much of the pollution which is spread into lakes is caused by boats which are extremely dirty or do not have proper engine maintenance. Oil leaks from boats are one of the most common causes of pollution in lakes. Make sure to maintain your boat engine and wash your boat regularly to ensure it is contamination-free and does not harbor creatures from other bodies of water.

Make sure to travel at low speeds where marked, as big waves erode shorelines. Also, when it comes time to replace your boat motor, opt for a 4-cycle engine rather than a 2-cycle one. With a 4-cycle engine, your boat will cause less air pollution and lose less gasoline in the water.

Have a Lake-Friendly Landscape

When possible, it is usually a good idea to plant a buffer strip of native plants along the waters edge. This can vary from lake to lake, and it is important to familiarize yourself with shoreline management laws and regulations for your lake before you take any action. A lake specialist real estate agent should be able to help you with this if you have any questions.

One of the best ways of preventing contaminants from entering lakes is by promoting lake-friendly landscaping. This can include planting flowers, destroying invasive plants near the lake, installing permeable walkways, and managing your storm water runoff. Also, make sure to avoid using pesticides and fertilizers in your lawn near the shore. These are all some effective, yet simple, ways you can use your landscape to keep your lake pristine and pollution free.

Clean up Immediately

Lake trash clean upAlways clean up trash immediately. Though it may be obvious to most, avoid throwing any type of trash or litter into the water. Another tip is to always keep a garbage bag in your boat. This can be used for trash you create, as well as an easy outlet to dispose of any trash you may encounter while out boating.

Secure Your Belongings

Whether on your boat or on your dock make sure that your belongings are secured. At high speeds it is very easy for items to get blown out of the boat and fall into the water. This can also happen on your dock. Lakes can experience very high winds and items can easily end up in the water. Many items, such as floats, paddles, chairs, etc should either be secured to the dock or brought into the house when not in use.

Volunteer for Lake Clean-Up days

Volunteer Most lakes have organizations that strive to keep the waters and shorelines clean. These organizations will often have scheduled clean-up days in which people get together and volunteer their time to clean up the lake. Find out if there are institutions like this in your area and contact them to find out more ways you can help.

When it comes to owning lake property, helping to maintain your lake is beneficial for you and everyone around you. Clean water means better fishing, more enjoyable swimming, better views, and in the long run better house prices!

Enjoying the Lake in the Off Season

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

On a lake, it is easy to find things to do on hot, summer days. Swimming, boating, skiing. The list is unlimited. But what about during the off season?

Forget about “winterizing” your lake home and staying away until spring. There are many things to do at a lake during the off season. Keep these activities in mind to enjoy your lake home year round!

Off season boatingBoating

Never underestimate the fun of a fast boat, but not the kind of watercraft into which you climb and speed away.

Consider giving an RC boat a try. Remote control boats are not just for children. There are plenty of models intended for “kids” of all ages.

Many are inexpensive and dependable, and some models are for those with a competitive streak requiring a small investment.

Whatever your level of interest, toss an RC boat into the cold waters during winter, grab that remote control, and prepare for a great time.

But why limit yourself to boats? The wide open spaces and low population at the lake during frosty months is the ideal time to try out RC planes as well.

Fishing

Fishing in the off seasonAlthough summer is the the season for fishing, committed anglers will tell you that fish bite in the cold months as well. Specifically bass and hybrids.

The lake waters are much more calm because it isn’t crowded. A good tip is to use a small crankbait. Target rocks or wood structures, moving along slowly.

The fish may be sluggish, but they still have to eat!

Eating 

Okay, so you don’t have to necessarily be at a lake to eat during the brisk seasons. But, there’s nothing like cooking a large pot of chili and lounging by the fire in the evenings at your cozy lake home.

After dinner, bundle up and take a night walk to the bank and admire the way the waters glitter, reflecting the moon in the clear, winter sky.

Or build an outdoor fire using a fire pit or within a circle of stones. Roast marshmallows and exchange fun conversation, or a ghost story or two.

Or watch the sun rise in the still quiet from the back porch with a steaming mug of coffee.

Hiking

Lake hikingAlthough many animals hibernate during the winter, there is still plenty of wildlife to observe on a walk down a winding trail.

Deer, rabbits, and foxes can be spotted year-round as well as brilliantly colored species of birds.

Don’t be surprised if you encounter types of birds that are not indigenous to the area as they take a rest from migration.

Majestic eagles can still be spotted in the winter, but may not be as numerous as they are in summer.

Shopping

Nearby towns often have fall craft shows, Thanksgiving festivals or Christmas parades. What a great way to spend time with family attending a community event involving winter holidays.

Local shops often have an eclectic blend of Christmas selections that would make great unique gifts.

While you’re out, choose a restaurant to warm up in and order a winter dish that normally wouldn’t be available in summer months.

Lake homes are not just for summer fun. There are numerous ways in which a lake home can be a pleasure during the winter. This winter start a few new traditions that will allow you to return to your wonderful lake home in the cooler months as well as the warm ones.

Boating Etiquette for Beginners

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Boating is a way of life for water lovers, which is why there are certain rules that must be followed to ensure everyone’s safety.

If you’re new to boating, here are some general boating etiquette tips & advice (for both passengers and pilots) you should be aware of to ensure passenger safety, both on and off the water.

Launching and Returning Your Boat

It’s important to launch and return your boat as efficiently as possible.  Other boaters will likely be waiting in or around the ramp or dock, so exercising discretion and care while launching or returning is critically important. Important rules to remember:

  • Become familiar with the procedures of a particular facility ahead of time
  • Prepare your boat by taking off tie-down straps and covers in an out-of-the-way place. Load coolers, tackle, and other gear ahead of time as well
  • Once you have launched, move quickly aside (but not hurriedly) to allow other boaters to do the same

When returning, tie up your boat on the opposite side of the dock so that other boaters may take off while you are retrieving your tow vehicle.

Marina Etiquette

Marina etiquette is an integral part of boating etiquette to pay attention to.  After refueling or loading your boat at the marina, move to a temporary docking station and park if you need to go inside for groceries or other items. Don’t keep others waiting while you take care of business. At the marina, you should also:

  • Keep your area clean and free of debris
  • Assist other boaters who are docking and de-boarding
  • Put carts and other equipment intended for common use back where it belongs when you are finished

Boating Safety On the Water

Boat wakes can cause damage to floating docks, can cause seawall damage, and have even thrown children off floating docks. Keep in mind that you are responsible for your own wake, and should be accountable for any damage you cause by it.

If your wake causes other boaters distress, knocking items (or people) off a dock, you could be held liable for damages or injuries. Be mindful of wake zones at all times and remain in compliance.

When overtaking a boat, allow for as much room as depth conditions allow for. Consider your wake, and slow your speed if necessary to ensure you don’t rock the other vessel. If that vessel is a sailboat, overtake it by passing astern to avoid blocking its wind. If you are the vessel being passed, slow your speed to a reasonable clip to allow the other boater to get around you safely.

Leave plenty of anchorage between yourself and other boaters, especially when carrying multiple passengers or playing loud music. Sound carries much farther on the water, and you want to avoid disturbing your neighbors if at all possible. Avoid traveling between a fishing boat and the bank, even if that watercraft does not appear to be moving.

Rules of Anchoring Your Boat

Boat anchorWhen first entering an anchorage, reduce your speed significantly so as not to create any wake at all. The rules of anchoring deem that the first person into the anchorage is the one who determines the swing radius. Mimic the leader in how you tie off and anchor, and use roughly the same amount of distance between boats.

These boating etiquette rules will go a long way toward ensuring your time on the water is as pleasant as possible. Boating consists of a tight-knit community of individuals, which is why good manners are so important.

Pet Travel: How to Prepare Your Pet for a Trip to the Lake

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Dog at lakeA trip to the lake with the entire family is truly a special experience, but spending time on the lake just isn’t the same without your pet(s).

Trying to find a place for your pet to stay while you’re away from home can be an expensive hassle.  While many people wouldn’t even consider leaving their pets behind, pet travel certainly does have its own unique set of challenges.

If you do decide to take your pet with you, be sure to use the following tips to prepare your pet for the trip: Continue reading “Pet Travel: How to Prepare Your Pet for a Trip to the Lake”

Five Reasons Your Lake Home Needs A Landline Phone

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Landline phoneThe Chicago Tribune estimates that around 40% of all homes nationwide no longer have a landline phone.

There are still plenty of good reasons to maintain a landline, especially if you own a lake home.

Here are four reasons why you should consider maintaining a landline phone at your lake home.

#1. Works when the power is out

Homes near the lake are susceptible to power outages, which is why it is especially important to install landline phones in them. Should the power go out, you’ll still have a means of communicating with others, and might be able to obtain help much sooner as a result.

#2. No bars, no worries

Cell and VoIP phones are notorious for poor or weak signals and static or tinny echo effects that make it difficult to carry on a conversation. These things can be an even bigger problem near a lake, especially if the lake is in a remote area.

Clarity is never a problem with a landline, so you never have to worry about a lack of cell coverage.

#3. Secure your privacy

The problem with wireless phones is the fact that they can easily be intercepted. This can happen in a number of ways, including:

  • The use of rogue cell phone towers to divert and capture data
  • “Bluejacking”, which involves sending unsolicited information to Bluetooth-enabled devices
  • Hacking of computers in order to “spy” on VoIP phone calls

Cell phone conversations may also be audible by others who are using ham radios, police scanners, and similar devices. Radio equipment like this is often found on boats, making it possible for someone to hear your conversation while cruising past your residence. Landline phones are less penetrable and are far more secure than cell phone technology.

#4.  Provides more reliability for security

Many alarm systems these days must be synced to a landline in order to work properly. The reason why so many security companies require this is because they know how dependable a landline actually is compared to a VOIP or digital phones, which are susceptible in power outages.

First responders can easily pinpoint your location because a landline transmits its address information directly to the dispatcher whenever you call 911.

In the age of cell phones and Internet, there are still plenty of good reasons to maintain a good old-fashioned landline phone, especially in lake homes. Whether you’re looking to buy a lake house or already live on the water, you can benefit from installing a traditional landline, even if you predominantly use other forms of communication.

Child Water Safety Tips to Consider at The Lake

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

child water safety, wearing life vestLake homes have a timeless appeal for both children and adults, since people of all ages are so wildly attracted to the water.

Keeping everyone safe around the water needs to be a top priority. This is because of potential threats in, and around the lake or any body of water. Drowning is the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury death in the United States.

Ten people die from unintentional drowning in the U.S. every day, and of these ten drownings, two are children aged 14 or younger.

The following is a number of critical child water safety tips that will help to keep your children and your family safe around the lake. Continue reading “Child Water Safety Tips to Consider at The Lake”

Tips on How to Deal with Bugs & Insects on the Lake

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips
Woman applying mosquito repellent bug spray next to lake
Photo courtesy of Mamavation.

There are a huge number of advantages to living in a lake house. From the scenic views to the ability to go fishing or swimming whenever you want. However, like every other place in the world, there are always a few drawbacks – even if they are small ones. For example, living on a freshwater lake means that you may have to deal with a few bugs now and again, whether they’re harmless mayflies or those pesky mosquitoes. The following are a few tips on how to deal with bugs and insects (the pesky variety) so that they don’t take away from the amazing lake living experience:

Mosquitoes

Mosquito spray bug repellent

Mosquitoes are easily one of the most irritating bugs to deal with. Odds are you’ve been bitten by a mosquito at least once or twice in your lifetime.

Mosquitoes breed and thrive in an environment that combines standing water, heat, and humidity. These conditions are optimal for them to breed. This means that when summer comes around, odds are you’ll see your share of mosquitoes around the lake.

The following are a few tips to help you deal with those mosquitoes so that they don’t ruin your summer. After all, you’ll want to enjoy those sunsets without swatting at mosquitoes every second.

  • Install ceiling fans – Mosquitoes do not take kindly to breezy environments. If your lake home doesn’t already have ceiling fans, you should consider installing them. Not only will they keep mosquitoes away – they’ll also improve the comfort of your home! If you have a porch or a deck that you enjoy using during the spring or summer seasons, you may want to consider installing a ceiling fan or two out there as well.
  • Install screens – We all like to leave our doors and windows open during the warmer days of the year in order to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the house. However, this is an open invitation to mosquitoes. Install screens so that you can open your home up without letting any mosquitoes or other flying bugs in. You may even want to screen your porch in if you haven’t done so already.
  • Avoid standing water – Yes, your lake home is technically sitting on a huge area of standing water. However, prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs even closer to your home by making sure you don’t leave any form of standing water out in your yard.
  • Add citronella plants to your yard – Mosquitoes can’t stand citronella. You can use citronella candles to help keep mosquitoes at bay as well as put citronella oil on your skin to keep from being bitten. You may even want to plant a few citronella plants in your yard around your home. Even potted citronella plants on your porch can help prevent a mosquito invasion.

Mayflies

Bug spray Young child near flying insects
Photo courtesy of Mamavation.

Okay, so mayflies aren’t nearly as annoying as mosquitoes – mostly because they don’t bite. But, that doesn’t mean that they aren’t a huge nuisance.  After all, nobody wants a cloud of mayflies surrounding their head as they try to enjoy the outdoors.

  • Replace lights – Mayflies are attracted to certain colored-lights. Light bulbs that produce a yellowish color won’t attract mayflies as much. Neither will sodium vapor bulbs. Consider replacing your outdoor light bulbs and turn all outdoor lights off when you turn in for the night. If you prefer to leave lights on for security reasons, consider installing motion-detecting lights that only turn on when motion is detected.
  • Keep the yard clean – Keep the area around your yard clean, keeping the grass trimmed and rid of dead organic matter. This includes leaves and branches which can attract mayflies.

Roaches and Ants

Roaches and ants can be a problem no matter where you live, whether it’s on the lake or in the city. Keep the following tips in mind to help prevent roach or ant infestations:

  • Don’t leave food out – Never leave food out, in or outside your home. This is sure to attract roaches or ants. Always throw away your leftover food in a sealed garbage can, garbage disposal, or put it away in your refrigerator.
  • Seal gaps – Go through your lake home and make sure there are no gaps in your window and door openings. Caulk your windows and add weatherstripping to your doors to eliminate entry points.
  • Keep the area around your home clear – You should have at least a foot of space between your lake home’s exterior and any shrubs, mulch, or trees to help protect against easy entry into your home by insects.

Living on a lake can be an absolutely amazing experience so don’t let the thought of bugs put you off. Following these tips can certainly help to keep your lake home bug-free. For more tips and advice on enjoying your time at the lake, read here.

Must Have Items For Safe Boating

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Family on boatThere are many ways that you can ensure safety as well as enjoyment as a boat operator. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with safety equipment and consider items that will provide comfort while using your vessel.

Always ensure that you have the valid Certificate of Number while the boat is in use. This will allow you to prove registration and ownership should you be approached by law enforcement.

You should also keep on your boat at least one wearable life jacket for each person on board.

The life jackets must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved, which would be indicated on the label. They also must be the appropriate size and type for each person, and in good condition.

A throwable, such as a life ring or flotation cushion, must be kept on board for vessels 16 feet or longer.Flotation device for boat safety

In the case of an emergency, a whistle and an emergency light would be necessary. Emergency lights come in many varieties such as strobe lights that can be attached to the boat, lantern-styles, and utility style for bright, adequate illumination. Distress signals are required for boat use as well. Signals such as an orange distress flag (used by day only), or signal flares.

Another item required to keep on board for safe boating is a fire extinguisher. Although you are surrounded by water, it is still necessary to keep a fire extinguisher handy in case of a fire. Be sure that you have the correct type for your boat, meeting the minimum requirements for the size and type of your vessel.

There are some situations in which you may need to make lots of noise, besides the laughter and fun from passengers on board. In meeting, crossing, or overtaking situations, sound signals are required. This is particularly during times of reduced visibility or while at anchor. You will need to keep at least one sound producing device available, such as a bell, a whistle, air horn, or gong.

To aide in navigation, it is helpful to keep a lake map available for reference. Many boats come equipped with GPS, which is the most convenient way to navigate waters.

But in the absence of GPS, or if it fails for whatever reason, keeping a lake map would ensure efficient navigation. Lake maps also inform of any lake hazards, general configuration, and character of the bottom and will include prominent landmarks and facilities.

Besides safety equipment, there are many things that you can keep on your boat that will ensure comfort and convenience. A VHF Radio would be used for communication and emergency traffic, and an AM-FM radio would be great for your favorite tunes or to catch up on local news.

A compass is a great idea to keep on board, as well. You can purchase a magnetic compass to ensure that your boat is pointed in the right direction at all times.Compass for boat safety

Be sure to always keep a tow line on board, and that it is an efficient length. 75′ is recommended, by at least 1/2″ thick. A small tool kit and spare parts would come in handy should you ever find yourself in a situation that requires repair.

Waterproof flashlights in various sizes and styles can be purchased as well and would be easy to tuck into a small space out of the way. And don’t forget extra batteries!