What is Fly Fishing?

Photo Courtesy of Montana Angler

Fly fishing is a timeless angling technique that has captivated enthusiasts for centuries. Unlike traditional methods that rely on weighted lures to cast lines, fly fishing employs lightweight artificial flies made of feathers, fur, and synthetic materials. This unique approach requires anglers to delicately present the fly, mimicking the natural movements of insects on the water’s surface. Fly fishing is not just a sport; it’s an art form that demands patience, skill, and an understanding of aquatic ecosystems.

The Essence of Fly Fishing

Photo Courtesy of LOOP Tackle

At its core, fly fishing is about more than just the catch; it’s about immersing oneself in nature and embracing the serenity of the great outdoors. Whether wading through a pristine river or casting from the banks of a tranquil lake, fly fishing offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the natural world. The rhythmic motion of casting, the soothing sound of water flowing over rocks, and the anticipation of a strike create a sense of tranquility and mindfulness that is unmatched in any other outdoor pursuit.

The Craft of Fly Tying

Central to the art of fly fishing is the craft of fly tying. Fly tying is the process of creating artificial flies that imitate the appearance and behavior of natural insects and baitfish. Anglers meticulously select materials such as feathers, fur, and synthetic fibers to craft lifelike imitations that entice fish to strike. Tying is not only a practical skill but also a creative pursuit that allows anglers to experiment with different patterns and designs, customizing them to suit specific conditions and imitating the prey species that fish are feeding on.

Beyond its practical application, fly tying serves as a form of artistic expression for many anglers, who take pride in crafting intricate patterns and mastering the techniques of this ancient art. Whether tying classic patterns passed down through generations or inventing new creations inspired by nature, the tying process is a deeply rewarding aspect of the fly-fishing experience.

The Thrill of the Catch

Photo Courtesy of Forbes

While the catch is undoubtedly exciting, the true thrill of fly fishing lies in the process itself. Whether casting dry flies to lure in trout on a summer evening or drifting nymphs through fast-flowing riffles, each scenario presents its own set of challenges and rewards. From reading the water and understanding fish behavior to selecting the right fly and executing the perfect cast, fly fishing offers a constant opportunity for growth and learning. It’s a sport that encourages anglers to push their boundaries, hone their skills, and embrace the joy of the chase.

Fly fishing is not just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that fosters a deep appreciation for nature and a sense of camaraderie among fellow anglers. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a novice angler, this activity offers endless opportunities for adventure, discovery, and connection with the natural world. So grab your gear, head to the water, and let the magic of fly fishing take you on a journey you’ll never forget.

Best Portable Water Filters for Backpacking

Man drinking from water bottle
Courtesy of CloudLine

Portable water filters are essential for backpacking. Here are some of the best in 2023: 


Backpacking has taken off as a long-term activity all over the world. It takes more commitment than hiking, as backpacking involves traveling while carrying your clothes and other things you need during your journey. Usually, those who are backpacking do so very affordably. However, it’s the preparation that takes time and money. 

A reliable portable water filter is one of the most important essentials for backpacking. A portable water filter is a unit used to purify water from untreated sources. This is extremely necessary, as when you’re backpacking or camping, you’ll need an easy way to treat the natural water near you. With harmful organisms living in water, this filter can keep you from getting sick and allow you to continue your backpacking journey.

Best for an Individual: Sawyer Squeeze and Katadyn BeFree

woman pouring purified water into water bottle
Courtesy of Sawyer

For those who travel solo or take a quicker backpacking trip, you will want a filter resembling a water bottle. The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter is constantly ranked high in this category. The Sawyer holds 32 fluid ounces and is very user-friendly. It comes with two ‘dirty’ pouches you fill with water. Then, after a few seconds, you can pour your clean water into the provided bottle. The Katadyn BeFree is another great competitor. The filtration for Katadyn is all within one bottle, so there is no transferring. It’s very lightweight and collapsible for easy packing—the two range from $40 to $45. 

Best for a Group: Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System

pieces of the platypus gravityworks filter
Courtesy of Task & Purpose

Multiple sources have ranked the Platypus GravityWorks Filter as the best for a group. A gravity filter uses gravity to push the water down through the filter and can be used for multiple systems. This specific filter is excellent for a larger group, considering it can hold up to four liters of water. Of course, it can be used in smaller groups for fewer trips to the water source. The one downfall is its size. More oversized and bulky, this filter is best if your backpacking trip makes multiple camping stops. The average price is $135.

Best of Chemical Purifier: Katadyn’s Micropur Water Tabs and Aquamira Water Treatment

water tablets for water purification
Courtesy of GearLab

Another filtration option is using tablets or drops to purify the water in your container. One of the best in tablet form is Katadyn’s Micropur Water Tabs, while one of the best for drops is the Aquamira Water Treatment. The best part of these filtration additions is that they can remove more than a bottled water filter. Specifically, the Micropur Water Tabs go a step further and remove viruses on top of bacteria and protozoa. They are effortless to use by just adding them to your water bottle or pot for cooking. The drop water treatment is similar and also kills viruses. With this, you have a two-part system that you drop into one liter of water. These purification methods are much more affordable, ranging from $15 to $20 for multiple uses.

Honorable Mentions

the lifestraw
Courtesy of Insider

Another device that has gone viral is the LifeStraw. The LifeStraw is popular not only for backpackers but also for emergency preparedness. It is, just as the name indicates, a straw. You can stick the straw in a body of water and drink right from the source. The water goes through a filter as it is brought up through the straw. You can get this straw for $20 to $50 depending on quantity.

Photo courtesy of REI

The SteriPen Ultra UV Water Purifier is a system in its own category. The SteriPen uses UV rays to destroy bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. All you do is place the device into your water bottle and stir it around until the pen tells you the process is complete. This process is fast, portable, and takes away the potential aftertaste that can come from using chemical filters. It is rechargeable using a USB but claims to have 100 uses in a full battery life. The price is $130.


A reliable water filter is paramount for those who backpack or camp often. It’s always important to know the source of your water and how it is treated. If you can’t answer these questions, consider one of the options above to ensure you stay safe and healthy. Happy backpacking!

For individual backpackers, two top-rated options are the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter and the Katadyn BeFree Water Filter. The Sawyer Squeeze offers a user-friendly design with two pouches for water filtration, while the Katadyn BeFree is a lightweight and collapsible filter that operates within a single bottle. Both filters are suitable for solo travelers and are priced between $40 and $45.

The Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System is highly recommended for group backpacking trips. This gravity-powered filter can hold up to four liters of water and is ideal for larger groups. While it may be bulkier than some individual filters, its capacity and efficiency make it an excellent choice, particularly for trips with multiple camping stops. The average price for this filter is around $135.

If you prefer chemical purification methods, two reliable options are Katadyn’s Micropur Water Tabs and Aquamira Water Treatment. The Micropur Water Tabs are tablets that eliminate not only bacteria and protozoa but also viruses, offering comprehensive purification. Aquamira Water Treatment, available in drop form, is similarly effective against viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. Both options are affordable, ranging from $15 to $20, and can be conveniently added to your water bottle or cooking pot.

Yes, there are a couple of specialized options worth considering. The LifeStraw is a popular device that functions as a straw you can directly place into a water source and drink through. It filters the water as you sip, making it useful for both backpackers and emergency situations. The SteriPen Ultra UV Water Purifier utilizes UV rays to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. It’s rechargeable, quick, and avoids the potential aftertaste associated with chemical filters. The SteriPen is priced at $130 and offers around 100 uses on a full battery charge.

Best Binoculars for 2022

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Whether you’re observing wildlife on the lake, identifying constellations in the night sky, or just getting a close-up view of your surroundings, it’s essential to own a solid pair of binoculars. Depending on the activity, different features will be more important. For example, those interested in astronomy will want to pick binoculars with large objective lenses which produce powerful light-gathering abilities. However, for regular everyday use, you’ll want lighter binoculars with decent magnification. No matter your purpose, we’ve got a recommendation for you! Check out our top five best binoculars for Summer 2022.

Best for Day Hikes

Photo courtesy of photospecialist.com

For all those relaxing daytime hikes near your lake house, we recommend the Pentax AD 8 x 25 WP. There is nothing too glamorous about this pair. They’re not designed for serious birding or for examining subjects with precise detail. Rather, their assets are their compactness, waterproof coating, and relative inexpensiveness. They also have a multi-layer coating to ensure maximum light transmission.

Best for Spotting Wildlife

Image courtesy of Amazon

The Swarovski Optik SLC Series is an excellent option for viewing wildlife. At a higher price point, it’s certainly a worthwhile investment. The company that manufactures these binoculars created a signature quality lens called Swarovision, which offers a wider view for better peripheral vision. Another asset of the Swarovski is the sharp color and clear vision — perfect for getting detailed, up-close pictures of the wildlife in your backyard. Built with durable materials, these binoculars are also wear-and-tear resistant, so you can enjoy the views for years to come.

Best for Turbulent Weather

Image courtesy of Amazon

If a little stormy weather doesn’t stop you from looking out at nature, you’ll want to try the Athlon Optics Midas MD. These durable binoculars can sufficiently withstand humidity, dust, and intense weather conditions. Further, its focus dial can adjust reliably across a wide range of depths, allowing for sharp, close-up views. Its advanced coated lenses allow for better light transmission as well. And of course, given its design to withstand less-than-ideal weather circumstances, these binoculars are waterproof.

Best for Stargazing

Image courtesy of newegg

Admiring the night sky is one of the great perks of owning a lake home. Away from the city, you can find much brighter constellations. For getting an even clearer view, the Canon 10X42L IS WP is a perfect choice. Due to the gyro-stabilization feature, they achieve an anti-wobble effect. According to Space.com’s review, this feature makes you “feel like they’re being held on an invisible tripod.” The downside to these binoculars is their bulkier weight, which is true for most binoculars designed for nighttime use.

Best for Sitting in Nature

Image courtesy of Amazon

For everyday use, the Olympus 10×42 Pro is a great choice for simply observing the natural world around you. Compared to other binoculars, these are relatively compact, lightweight, and versatile. With top-notch high-performance optics, they have amazing close-up abilities. Specifically, you can look at subjects as close as 1.5m away. Further, they’re waterproofed and nitrogen filled which prevents fogging. Although the power isn’t quite as strong as more heavy-duty binoculars, they are perfect for everyday use. 

From wildlife to constellations, there’s no shortage of astounding aspects of nature. With these top binoculars for summer 2022, you can get a close-up view of all of it.

Best Lake Vacation Destinations for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Previously on our blog, we covered the best lake vacation destinations for relaxation. You can lay back at these lakeside retreats and enjoy the scenery. But for some people, the easygoing atmosphere may feel too slow. Maybe you’re the first out the door on a hiking trip, always ready to explore the wilderness. You’d rather spend all day exploring a new mountain than being inside reading a book. Check out these top five lakes for outdoor enthusiasts! If this describes you, we’ve got you covered.

Moosehead Lake, Maine

Photo courtesy of Destination Moosehead Lake

Philosopher and writer Henry David Thoreau referred to Moosehead Lake as “uninterrupted.” Its 120-mile stretch of water (the second largest in New England following Lake Champlain) winds through gorgeous mountainous scenery, reasonably untouched by man-made features. For the best hiking, Mount Kineo offers plenty of different trails for all experience levels. If you’re an advanced hiker, you won’t want to miss the Pinnacle Pursuit – a six-mountain hiking challenge with incredible views that are worth the arduous effort. And, of course, as its name suggests, you’re bound to catch glimpses of wildlife such as moose, falcons, loons, and otters.

Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

Photo courtesy of National Park Service

Along the south shore of Lake Superior, on Wisconsin’s northernmost point, sits the Apostle Islands. These gorgeous sandstone cliffs and sea caves are only accessible by boat. Further, camping is the only accommodation while staying on these islands, making them a perfect destination for serious outdoor enthusiasts. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is home to more lighthouses than any other National Park. If you enjoy bird watching, bring binoculars while on the island – you’ll likely find plenty of new birds to identify. The archipelago gets more than 240 species of winged visitors every year. You’ll need to plan your visit in advance, but it’ll be well worth the trip.

Lake Chelan, Washington

Photo courtesy of Visit Chelan County

On average, Lake Chelan sees 300 annual days of sunshine. At this iconic lake destination in the Pacific Northwest, it’s rare that you’ll ever take a rain check on hiking plans. Besides the sunny weather, Lake Chelan is close to Mount Rainier National Park and North Cascades National Park. Immersed in these stunning alpine landscapes, you’ll have an abundance of hiking trails at your fingertips. These national parks offer over 250 miles of trails for mountain bikers, hikers, motorcyclists, and horseback riders. There are plenty of opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding on the water. In short, if you can’t get enough of nature, Lake Chelan is the place to be.

Lake George, New York

Photo courtesy of Adirondack Almanack

Lake George is nicknamed “Queen of the American Lakes” for a good reason. Although the town of Lake George is small and quaint, its natural surroundings are expansive. Located near the Adirondack mountains, it’s known for its proximity to stunning foliage and mountainous views. If you own or rent a lake house along its 32-mile shoreline, you’ll have access to countless outdoor activities – whitewater rafting, motorcycling, horseback riding, hiking – you name it! And if you need a day off, head to Million Dollar Beach along Lake George’s shore.

Lake Lure, North Carolina

Photo courtesy of Southern Trippers

Tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Lure offers both gorgeous lake views and 1,000 acres of wilderness. The scenery is so outstanding that Lake Lure has been a movie destination for shooting Dirty Dancing, The Last of the Mohicans, and other films. To get a good look at everything, climb up Lake Lure’s Chimney Rock for expansive views. Overall, the abundance of hiking trails and nature activities make this southern lake a perfect spot for outdoor lovers. 

Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails! We hope you enjoy your next lake vacation at one of these top destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.

Lake Insects to Watch Out For

Photo by Clément Falize on Unsplash

Summertime at the lake means a lot of things — swimming, boating, hiking, and other favorite outdoor activities. But one of the least enjoyable aspects of lake life is coexisting with outdoor creatures. We’re not talking about elk, ducks, and other wildlife you’re trying to spot — we’re talking about pesky lake insects. While it’s useful to remember bug spray and other strategies to keep insects away, it’s also helpful to identify these pesky bugs. After all, it’s hard to know which bugs to stay away from when you aren’t sure what they look like! Plus, with more skin exposure during the summer months, you may be even more vulnerable to these (often bloodthirsty) bugs. Today, we’ll be going over various types of annoying insects at the lake — and what to do if you see them!

Mosquitos

Photo courtesy of Mosquito Authority

Raise your hand if you’ve ever had a mosquito bite on the lake. That’s all of us, right? According to the CDC, mosquitos love the water because that’s where their larvae and pupae (young, developing mosquitoes) live. Not to be confused with gnats (which are generally harmless), mosquitoes are not lake insects to be messed with. Because mosquitoes thrive on blood, when they land on you, they leave painful, itchy bites. They can also spread diseases, such as the organisms that can pass heartworm disease to dogs. To keep the mosquitoes at bay, be sure to apply bug spray correctly each time you go outside, especially during the summer.

Horse Flies

Photo courtesy of uwm.edu

Like mosquitoes, horse flies are also constantly in search of blood. These fast-flying lake insects are commonly found around bodies of water such as streams, ponds, and lakes. There, they most often prey on animals, spreading animal diseases such as anthrax, trypanosomiasis, and tularemia. Although horse flies get their name from their livestock-preying reputation (especially horses, since they’re attracted to movement), they can bite humans as well. This is especially true during the summer when they require more blood during mating season. To steer clear of horse flies, be sure to keep garbage containers or other areas of animal waste sealed tightly.

Ants

Photo by Prabir Kashyap on Unsplash

Although ants are not only a lake house problem, dealing with these insects is almost synonymous with summer lake life. From the front porch to the backyard to the boat dock, ants are everywhere. Some are harmless and some can be dangerous, but because there are over 12,000 known species of ants, it’s hard to generalize. In the absence of clarity, a good rule of thumb is to let them be. For example, running around barefoot outdoors is never a good idea due to the risk of fire ants. And when picnicking by the lake, be sure to keep all your containers tightly sealed to avoid some ant visitors.

Cockroaches

Photo courtesy of Dorling Kindersley/Dorling Kindersley/Getty Images via the spruce

Although they’re definitely grotesque for those of us who are squeamish, cockroaches are typically harmless lake insects. However, in some people, they can cause allergic reactions. When in doubt, it’s best to stay away. At your lake home, the best protection against cockroaches is proper hygiene. Keep your house relatively tidy, clean up food messes, and store leftovers in the fridge. This is especially important to remember if your lake house is a second home. The last thing you want upon returning to your vacation house is a group of unwelcome guests.

Bees and Wasps

Photo by Aljaž Kavčič on Unsplash

What’s that buzzing sound? If you’re spending time outdoors at the lake, chances are, it’s a honey bee or bumble bee. In particular, these bees like to hang out by any flowering plants near the water. As most of us know, when threatened, bees can cause a painful sting. The same is true for wasps. However, these winged insects tend to be more aggressive than bees. Plus, if you’re allergic to their venom, the response can be excruciating. To get rid of wasps (and similar lake insects like hornets and yellow jackets), use a DIY or store-bought spray or hire a professional. 

When it comes to lake insects when in doubt, stay away! And of course, before running out to the lake, bring your bug spray and remember to clean up your picnic. 

Popular New Fishing Technology

Photo by Evan Wise on Unsplash

At its core, fishing is a simple hobby. With just a line, a reel, and bait, you can enjoy an entire afternoon experiencing the peaceful serenity that the lake has to offer. However, in 2022, there’s plenty of technology that can enhance the fishing experience beyond the basics. To learn more about the hottest new products that are flying off the shelves, we spoke to Jackson Wiggins, a sales associate in the fishing department of the Bass Pro Shop in Memphis, Tennessee. From EchoMap tools to aerodynamic bait, check out some of the best fishing technology products to use at the lake!

Garmin EchoMap

Image courtesy of Amazon

If you’ve ever wondered what’s going on beneath the water’s surface, the Garmin EchoMap is for you. Equipped with high-tech sonar, this live scope helps you see the location of fish a little more closely. “It’ll show you how deep the water is, where the group of fish are, and how much distance is between you and them,” Jackson explains. “These are very popular right now.” This sonar will be even more effective paired with a reel equipped with line counters. This way, you can cast your line at exactly the same depth as your fish on the EchoMap.

Rapala Fish Scale

Photo courtesy of Bass Pro Shops

Jackson describes this Rapala digital fish scale as a “game-changer.” This past Black Friday, customers were flocking to the store asking whether this popular product was on sale. Although the scale is small (only about half a pound), its wealth of features makes this product a must-have for any serious angler. It stores the weight of up to eight fish and automatically calculates the total weight so that you can see the sum of your success. Plus, the 500-hour battery life allows you to stay out on the lake for as long as you’d like.

Shimano Baitcasting Reels

Photo courtesy of hookedupmagazine.com

When it comes to reels, a persistent annoyance of every angler is the backlash. However, with these two high-tech reels from Shimano (the Shimano SLX DC and Curato DC) you don’t have to worry about that. “These are impossible to backlash,” says Jackson. “They come with a chip. Anytime their braking system feels some slack or lack of pressure on the line, the chip stops the line from messing up and causing you to sit for five or six minutes.” Both effective and efficient, these baitcasting reels are certainly worth the price tag.

Hybrid Hunter Crankbait

Photo courtesy of strikeking.com

If you’re looking to target fish at specific depths, there’s nothing better than a crankbait. And these products from Hybrid Hunter get the job done. “People say it does wonders,” reports Jackson. “The 90-degree angle on the lip makes them unique. This particular angle makes the bait’s action look more lively in the water when it’s in the water.” In this way, the Hybrid Hunter Crankbait is a sure-fire way to attract more fish.

Ego S1 Genesis Net

Photo courtesy of tackledirect.com

At first glance, a fishing net seems pretty basic. However, this Ego Krypttk S1 Genesis net surpasses all the other generic brands. “It’s a very stiff net which extends out 10 feet. It floats, and it’s not going to give,” Jackson explains. And if our word isn’t enough, Jackson noted that even Bill Dance uses this product! With a famous endorsement like that, you can be sure that this net is high quality. 

With these fishing technology products (and a little bit of luck), you’ll be reeling in success in no time!

Top Lake Toys for 2022

Photo courtesy of Nauticexpo.com

This summer, we hope you’re making the most of your time on the water. Boat riding, lounging on the dock and making delicious frozen treats are all excellent ways to live your best lake life. If you’re looking to add more fun and games to your activities repertoire, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of our top picks for lake toys this summer!

Wave Runner Waterproof Football

Photo courtesy of Amazon

Especially if you have kids, you’ve probably turned the backyard of your lake house into a sports field — maybe more than once. Now, with the Wave Runner Waterproof Football, the lake becomes your stadium. This all-weather football is made from heavy-duty materials, perfect for roughhousing outdoors. Complete with a special grip pattern, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice your spiral throw.

Force 1 Velocity Toy Boat

Photo courtesy of Walmart

Toy boats aren’t just for young kids. Adults, families, and groups of friends will love the Force 1 Velocity Toy Boat. This high-tech lake toy comes with a double-hatch body which enhances smooth control over waves, as well as capsize recovery in case you flip over. This remote-controlled toy is capable of racing up to 20 miles per hour. For the competitive ones among us, you can see whose boat is the fastest with a friendly speed-racing contest!

Inflatable Volleyball Net

Photo courtesy of Amazon

Can you spike it over? While you’re in lake mode this summer, enjoy a fun game of volleyball with this inflatable net. Made of high-quality raft material, this lake toy is both durable and fun. It’s perfect for kids, families, and any other guests with a flair for sports. Plus, it’s ideal for both lakes and pools, if you have both on your property!

Tie-Knot Water Balloon Filler & Tying Tool

Photo courtesy of onmilwaukee.com

We all love a good water balloon fight. Everyone’s already soaked in water from the lake, and tossing water balloons at your friends just adds to the fun. With this water balloon filler and tying tool from Tie-Knot, you don’t have to spend hours preparing for a game. Instead, the balloon-maker ties the knot for you. Just put the gun’s nozzle into a water balloon, fill it up, and insert it through the tying mechanism. Then, you’re all set for more efficient and fun games!

Backnine

Photo courtesy of Waboba

If you like Bocce and Disc Golf, you’ll love Backnine by Waboba. This new innovative game features a flying target ring with 4 silicone discs. Players set the course challenge by throwing the ring, and they play according to where it lands. This fun, lakeside-appropriate game comes with a scorecard so you can play for points. Just make sure you’ve got plenty of space in your backyard because these rings can fly up to 130 feet!

Rover iSUP Package with Cupholder

Photo courtesy of WOW

Stand-up paddleboarding is one of the most popular lake sports for a reason. It’s a peaceful, solitary activity, it involves minimal equipment, and you can even do yoga on board. This particular stand-up paddleboard is made of 6-inch thick inflatable material and comes complete with a cupholder. This durable board weighs only 30 pounds and when deflated, it folds up easily into a backpack or trunk. On a calm summer day at the lake, this is the perfect outing.

Swimline Log Flume Joust Set

Photo courtesy of Amazon

Jousting isn’t just for the middle ages — you can host a tournament at your own lake house! This log flume joust set comes with 2 inflatable logs and 2 inflatable boppers. Made of heavy-duty vinyl construction, these lake toys are meant to last, so your family can enjoy them for years to come. Once you’ve successfully knocked your opponent into the lake, these inflatable logs are easy to deflate and keep in storage.

Jetson Reef Electric Motorized Kickboard

Photo courtesy of Target

Sometimes, your feet aren’t enough to propel you as far as you’d like to go. With this motorized kickboard, you can explore your slough in no time! This product’s propeller design comes with a 250-watt motor, perfect for any pool or lake. Additionally, there’s a camera attachment for your waterproof camera so you can document your fun adventures on the water. 

We hope these lake toys add to your summer fun at your lake house!

Lake Life in the Slow Lane: Non-Motorized Watercrafts

Photo courtesy of Outdoor News

In 2021, most boats that you’ll see on the lake are motorized. The typical propulsion system for boats, outbound motors are a self-contained unit affixed to the back of the boat which contains an engine, gearbox, and propeller. Essentially, these contraptions take fuel and convert it to power so your boat moves forward. Some motors are inbound rather than outbound, meaning that the engine is inside the boat’s hull. 

While motors are a useful, modern invention for boats, they aren’t always necessary. In fact, there are several joys and benefits of forgoing the motor for paddles, oars, and other manual propellers. If you love being on the water, but you enjoy a slower pace of lake living, one of these non-motorized watercrafts might be perfect for you.

Sailboat

Photo courtesy of CNN Travel

The technology of sailboats is as old as recorded history. Our earliest record of sailboats is from Ancient Egypt when the Nile River and the Mediterranean were used as popular trade routes among various lands. Without the technology of a motor, sailboats simply use the natural wind to propel the boat forward. Because wind is unpredictable, any seasoned sailor knows how to adjust the sails to the wind — a concept that lends itself metaphorically to life. Although the terminology can be complicated, once you learn the tricks of the trade, it’s worth it. 

Canoe

Similar to the sailboat, the canoe’s history dates back thousands of years. Rather than being specific to one country and culture, canoes were likely ubiquitous across the world and instrumental in trade, war, and personal transportation. The English word comes from a Caribbean word meaning “dugout.” This name appropriately reflects the practice of constructing a boat from a tree and carving a hollowed space for sitting. Instead of a motor, typically, canoers use paddles to propel the boat forward. In a two-person canoe, the front paddler controls the speed and power while the back paddler controls the direction.

Kayak

Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

Unlike canoes that have an unspecified origin, kayaks likely originated in northern parts of the world such as present-day Greenland, Siberia, and North America. Meaning “small boat of skins” in the Greenland Eskimo language, these non-motorized watercrafts were first used by Inuit and Aleut people for travel and trading. While these first kayaks were created out of bone, wood, and animal skin, today’s kayaks are mostly made from long-lasting polyethylene plastics. Because kayaks are usually operated by one person, the kayaker will use a double-sided paddle to propel the small boat forward. 

Standup Paddleboards

Most personal watercrafts involve sitting in, not on the watercraft. Not so with SUPs. An acronym for “stand up paddleboard,” SUPs have roots in surfing. The modern sport originated in Waikiki, Hawaii in the 1940s by John Ah Choy, a surfer who as he aged, wasn’t able to get up and down from his surfboard like he could in his younger days. For aid, he used a canoe paddle to catch waves. Eventually, the style gained popularity among other surfers. Usually made of fiberglass and resin, these boards are a sturdy non-motorized watercraft that’s perfect for fishing, yoga, and other lake recreation. 

Banana Boats

Photo courtesy of ootlah.com

We’re not talking about the brand of sunscreen or the delicious banana s’more dessert. Like other lake floats, banana boats are a purely recreational type of non-motorized watercraft. Shaped like a banana, these inflatables come without any type of motor system and can sometimes be tugged behind a motorized boat. Typically, they seat up to 10 people — perfect for a fun-loving group of guests at your lake house. 

Whether you choose a motorized or non-motorized personal watercraft, we hope you keep enjoying the lake in whatever way suits your lifestyle!

How to Make a Raised Garden Bed

Photo courtesy of Real Simple

A garden bed is an excellent way to add both aesthetic appeal and gardening ease to your backyard. In this style, soil is raised above ground and enclosed in some way, typically by a wooden frame. It’s a great way of working around less-than-ideal soil conditions in your backyard. Plus, you can choose the location of your plot, offering great flexibility. For the eager gardener, garden beds also warm up more quickly in spring so you can start your planting earlier. Overall, garden beds require less maintenance in the long-run — you can keep them mulched all year which reduces weeds, you’ll spend less time in a smaller garden, and this manageable look creates a sense of organization in your backyard.

If you’ve decided to make garden beds at your lake house, follow these steps!

Consider the Elements

Photo courtesy of Shain Rievley via HGTV

Just like planting a garden on regular soil, you’ll need to consider all the elements before laying down roots. First off, sun exposure and soil health are key, so you’ll want to ensure that you pick a spot for your garden bed that covers these basics. Keep in mind that your garden will need 8 hours of sun in the summer, so be sure to scope out a plot uncovered by shady trees. If needed, you can get a soil test from your local Cooperative Extension Office to obtain a fuller understanding of what’s going on beneath the surface. This may be especially important if your lake house is an older building with paint on the exterior, in which chemical damage is a risk.

Determine the Size

Photo courtesy of Garden in Minutes

Once you’ve determined the location in your yard, the next step is to choose the frame size. Of course, this decision will vary based on the space you have in your backyard. But regardless of yard acreage, the most important rule of thumb is to be mindful of width. Essentially, you want to be able to reach every plant in your garden without stepping on other crops in the way. In general, 5 feet wide is ideal. If it’s against a fence or wall and you’re unable to reach both sides, aim for less than 2.5 feet wide.

Build the Frame

Photo courtesy of Home Depot

There’s not one way to make a raised garden bed. They come in all different styles, types, and materials — it just depends on your preference, and what looks best in your backyard! Although you can use bricks, steel, or stone pieces to create your frame, the easiest material for beginners is untreated wood. For example, cedar is a widely available and popular material, known for its unique pinkish-red color and ability to thwart insects and decay. But whatever you do, be sure to stay away from treated wood. The infused chemicals could potentially seep into your plant bed and compromise your roots. For the actual construction piece, YouTube tutorials can be a helpful place to start, as well as step-by-step online guides from home improvement retailers.

Lay Landscaping Fabric

Photo courtesy of Grow Food Guide

One of the great benefits of garden beds is their independence from the rest of your yard. If you’re not satisfied with the soil in your backyard — perhaps soil contamination is an issue in your town, or the level of moisture isn’t right — a garden bed is an opportunity to start fresh. To keep your soils separate, the next step is to lay landscaping fabric along the edges of your garden bed. This water-permeable piece of cloth keeps the soil in your garden bed separate from the soil in your yard. Additionally, landscaping fabric discourages weeds and stabilizes soil temperature — a great benefit for helping your plants flourish!

Fill In the Garden Bed

Photo courtesy of Garden Gate Magazine

To fill in the garden bed, you’ll want a good mixture of soil and compost. According to blog Homestead and Chill, the target recipe is 40% soil, 40% compost, and 20% aeration. Next you may have to do a little math. First, calculate the volume of your garden bed (multiply width by length by depth) then convert the amount to cubic yards to determine how much soil you need (check out this gardener’s calculator for more help). Finally, the fun part comes next — you can start planting! If you need tips on how to choose the best plants for your gardening zone, take a look at some of our previous blog posts. We cover tips about gardening in all zone regions of the country!

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