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th l 5 1 ua n n n A tio i Ed A Special Reader Service of CONFESSIONS OF A BOAT SHOW ADDICT THE YEAR OF MID-RANGE FOUR-STROKES SKEETER BOATS EXPANDS FOUR-STROKES REQUIRE DIFFERENT LUBRICATION A close-up look at the latest models from some of your favorite manufacturers. BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com 21 2009 Book of Boats listing, features The Boats.... Fiberglass Aluminum Alumacraft Crestliner Fisher Lowe Starcraft Monark War Eagle Weldbilt Allison Aries Bass Cat Bullet G3 Phoenix Procraft Stratos Skeeter Nitro Triton Charger Xpress Features Page 22.....Boat show addict Page 28..... Year of mid-range four strokes Page 32......Four strokes requires different lubrication Don Gasaway’s regular boating column for Tennessee Valley Outdoors appears on page 8 in this issue. Tennessee Valley Outdoors invites boat manufacturers whose fiberglass and aluminum fishing boats are sold in Tennessee to send information for our annual Book of Boats. If you do not see a brand represented it is because we did not receive this information. We will update readers on these brands as we receive information Nashville Boat Show 22 BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com 2009 Book of Boats Aluminum Boats Confessions of a boat show addict By DON GASAWAY Alumacraft www.alumacraft.com Many great family stories are built around experiences in one of these boats. the Lunker CS and Tiller are easy to trailer, easy to launch and easy to own. They feature generous storage space and rod lockers for everyone’s gear. Large llivewell, bow and aft casting platforms, full electrical system and battery storage. Twin-plated 2XB Bow and 5-person capacity makes this a boat families can enjoy for generations. Add a fuel efficient outboard, your favorite camera and you’re set. Length: 16’6” Beam: 76” Weight: 700 pounds Max HP: 2009 Book of Boats Aluminum Boats Crestliner www.crestliner.com The modified CX BassV-hull is a quality, ready-to-fish bass boat that’s also very budget friendly. Crestliner designed an aluminum hull that's lighter than fiberglass and handles like a dream. There is a long list of features including a trolling motor and depth finder, and are factory-rigged with a Mercury outboard and a custom trailer. The CX is available in 17 and 19 foot lengths. Towns open waterfront tap into boater dollars Would you like to improve your community’s access to your area waterway? Six 2008 BoatU.S. Recreational Boating Access Award winners can show you how. The winning projects – in Florida, Ohio, Minnesota and North Carolina – offer a range of innovative solutions for communities struggling to keep their waterfronts open to boaters, anglers, and citizens. Communities that improve boating access can also reap economic rewards that area and visiting boaters bring to merchants, restaurants and service providers. For information on the projects and winners, visit http:// w w w. B o a t U S . c o m / g o v / AccessAward As long as I remember, going to the boat show was always a hoot. It was a chance for a small town guy to see what anglers from all over were buying. It brought up visions of trips to be experienced and it was a learning experience. The key to maximizing knowledge from a boat show is preparation. Having a game plan will allow you to learn with a minimum of exhaustion. The place to begin is on the Internet. All of the manufacturers of boats have web pages. So do the marinas, manufacturers and often the sponsors of the show itself. Boat shows are composed of thousands of square feet of products, places to go, and other bits of knowledge. Covering the entire show and still being able to focus on your favorite sport, takes effort. Some shows are so large that one feels he needs a GPS just to get around. Once you have selected the show. Check the ads that appear in newspapers, magazines, on radio and television will provide you with specific information as to when the show is coming to town. Look for the products and seminars that interest you. If you plan to make purchases make a list of the items you are seeking. You can make two lists, one that you have to buy and the second of things you would like to examine. Perhaps you will buy something from the second list and maybe you just want to see it. Week day traffic is lightest and exhibitors can spend more time with you. Arrive early to allow maximum time to spend getting the information you seek. If you are with a group, make arrangements to meet at a specific location and time. You may want to see different things or become separated. Kids do not want to spend the same amount of time at a booth as an adult. Wives want to see different things than do husbands. Once at the show, take time to look over the program that is usuall passed out as you enter. It often has a floor plan and list of the exhibitors. A pen or highlighter marking pen can be used to mark the exhibits and seminars of major interest to you. Make check marks beside the names of exhibitors who might stock the things you want to purchase. Make note of the time and location of seminars you want to attend. Some shows announce the seminars as they are taking place, some do not. Be sure you have a watch so that you do not miss your favorite speaker. Make note on the program of any last minute substitute seminar speakers or exhibits. Such changes are usually posted at the entrance to the show or at the seminar area. Take a cassette tape recorder to the seminar. Most speakers have no problem with your taping their speech, but it is important to ask permission first. Take notes in a spiral notebook. You might even have some questions that you hope the speaker will answer, prepared in advance. That way if he does not cover the subject, you can ask during the Q & A that usually is part of any seminar. Pay attention to what is being said and avoid side conversations with your companions. If the subject is one in which you are intensely interested, sit near the front so that you can concentrate. If you are only passively interested, sit in the back or on an aisle. That way if you decide to leave during the presentation, you will disturb only a minimum number of other people. Wear comfortable shoes. Most of the time you will be walking on concrete. Hiking or a new pair of athletic shoes are a good idea as they provide support and cushioning for the feet. See SHOW ADDICT, page 32 tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 6010 Highway 58 Chattanooga, TN 37341 423-344-1276 ProTeam 175 TXW World’s #1 Selling Aluminum Fishing Boat SEE US AT THE CHATTANOOGA BOAT SHOW World’s #1 Selling Pontoon Fishing or Pleasure We Have the Right Boat for You! 23 24 BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com 2009 Book of Boats Aluminum Boats Aluminum Boats Fisher www.fisherboats.com Length: 16’6” Beam: 76’ Weight: 790 lbs Max HP: 60 Capacity: 5 persons The single console Fisher 16 Avenger SC is a rock-solid fishing performer. It has all the basic fishing features like aerated livewell, trolling motor harness and locking rod storage. Vinyl floor and deck are easy to clean. And the wide beam and elevated front deck make great fishing platforms with plenty of room for a family of four. The 16 Avenger SC rides on a factory-matched trailer with GalvaShield protection and is backed by our Fish Forever Limited Lifetime Warranty. Fuel Capaity: 110 gallons Book of Boats 2009 Aluminum Boats Lowe 2009 Book of Boats Monark www.monarkmarine.com The Monark King King 195 offers an all welded hull for years of trouble -free boating. Wide vee hull with reverse chine provides a soft dry ride. Folding stern bench seat and comfortably padded walk-in bow seating area. The King King 195 is an Ideal fishing machine and can be converted into a genuine family fun boat. A life time limited leak proof warranty is included. There is also a life Length: 19’4” Beam: 95” Max HP: 175 Weight: 2009 Book of Boats Aluminum Boats www.lowe.com So Stable You'll Think You're Still On The Dock -- The Stinger® Bass Series features the widest decks available - up to 50% larger than most leading competitors. These advanced designs are more stable and run better with lesser HP outboards and heavier 4-strokes. Tournament-class, standard components include a MotorGuide® trolling motor, Lowrance® fish locator, Teleflex® gauges, painted trailer with swing tongue, plus your choice of Mercury® outboard. Key fishing features include a 44" long, 23 gallon divided livewell with timer and super-reliable Flow-Rite® plumbing, plus an easy-access, center-mounted 7' rod locker, four in-deck storage compartments, under-seat storage, driver and passenger seats and two movable pedestal fishing seats. To ensure years of trouble-free operation, Stingers feature totally wood-free, all-welded, all-aluminum construction backed by our Lifetime Limited Warranty. Starcraft www.starcraftmarine.com Length: The Starfish 176SC is the serious fisherman’s dream 17’8” come true. Its rugged Power-Trac Hull tames rough water, Beam: while it’s impressive features give you everything you need 92” for great outings, including an optional trolling motor,two Fuel Capacity: aerated livewells,two rod lockers, bow casting deck with 32 gallons fishing seat location and lots of storage room for all your Max HP: gear. BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com *Price does not include trailer. 25 26 BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com 2009 Book of Boats Aluminum Boats Aluminum Boats War Eagle www. wareagleboats.com Following in the reputation of all War Eagle Boats, the 962 Tomahawk is built tough, but performance is its strong suit. The transom has a built-in jackplate and air ride hull with a reverse chine for more lift, improved turning ability and a very smooth ride. One optional feature is the cool mist air conditioning system—located in bow, the cool mister will keep you cool on those hot days. The tomahawk gives you strength and durability of aluminum, but with style and comfort you may not expect from aluminum. The 962 has a very stylish console and interior. It comes standard with hydraulic steering. Other noteworthy standard features include: two top loading rod lockers that accommodate rods up to 7 1⁄2 feet, a butt fishing seat with powerpole extension, a casting seat with pole extension, lockable storage, storage under seat, an ice chest, a divided livewell (68 quarts), a 25-gallon built-in fuel tank, 24v trolling motor wiring, bilge pump (500gph) and splashwell. 2009 Book of Boats Weldbilt www.weldbilt.com The Weldbilt boat is one of the best buys for your money on the market today. They are all welded, no rivets. Flat, semi-V or tunnel hull, custom made for you. Standard features include one bow seat, one or two cross seats and one transom brace. Choose from 16, 22 or 27 for transom height, nonpainted, green or gray paint. Custom options are inseat or side livewell. Front decks come in 40, 48 or 60 inches in length. Console can either be side or center console. Aluminum floors are factory installed. Storage options include a 55” rodbox, 72” rod box, 36” S/S dry box, dry storage for cross seat with showbox lid or livewell, storage compartment in rear seat and splash well. With so many options to choose from, your Weldbilt will be unique. See a dealer for more information on ordering your Weldbilt. Weldbilt offers many options to the outdoorsman so specific information regarding length, weight and capacities will be individual based upon your choices. Dalton Marine 1117 Murray Ave. • Dalton, GA 706-226-3595 www.DaltonMarineInc.com Best prices in North Georgia Fish ‘n’ Ski & Bass Boats Dalton Marine COMANCHE E-Tec HO Bentley Pontoon Boats Champion Center Console Boats SPECIAL ES INCENTIV S ON BOAT S & MOTOR BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com 2009 Book of Boats Aluminum Boats Xpress Allison www.xpressboats.com www.allisonboats.com The ProSport bass boat is truly in a class by itself with Length: unsurpassed quality and performance, design efficiency, 20’3” comfort and convenience. Beam: The ProSport features a unique console designed for 88” side or center steering and provides full wind protection Weight: for all passengers. Side steering is standard. Center steer1040-1080 lbs ing on this bass boat is a no-cost option. Optional side-slide Fuel Capacity: seat track allows the boat to be driven from the center or 30 gallons side. Livewell: The XB-2003 ProSport bass boat comes standard with 33 gallons gel coat trim color on the hull and deck wings, the console, Suggested HP: plus the front and rear deck steps along with accent pin up to 175 striping on the sides. Book of Boats The popular Hyperlift Series has expanded to include more of what you want!! In addition to the favorite H51 and H18, are the all new H22 and the H18PFC. There are now more lengths to choose from. Enjoy the amazing performance of the Xtreme Hyperlift Hull and delight in the roomy layouts with extended casting decks. Included is an extensive list of popular features such as Euro style seating, large aerated livewells, lockable rod lockers and sizeable storage units. For the crappie fisherman, the H18PFC offers a panfish layout with deeper sides and a wider decks for added stability. 2009 Fiberglass Boats WSCC Bass Cat 2009 Book of Boats Fiberglass Boats 27 www.basscat.com The all NEW Bass Cat Puma FTD is the “baddest” boat in the line up for ‘09. Bass Cat simply took the front half of the Puma and married it with the back half of the Cougar FTD; the best characteristics of both boats ... resulting in one awesome bass boat. You have a 20’4” hull with a 94” beam, it’s rock solid and will cut the waters surface with ease. This new hull is found on all four 20 footers ... both Pumas and Cougars. The new hull is quicker, more stable, and provides an even softer ride. One ride will ensure this a fact not a claim Construction is Bat Cat’s innovative “all fiberglass” vacuum compressed technology ... transom, stringers, and subfloor incorporating full upright foam flotation. These advanced techniques help provide a limited transferable lifetime warranty. Length: 20’4” Beam: 94” Weight: 1845 lbs Fuel Capacity: 52 gallons Suggested HP: 200 - 300 H 18 Length: 18’ Beam: 94” Weight: 1290 lbs. Max HP: 150 Fuel Capacity: 30 gallons 28 BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 The year of midrange four strokes By DON GASAWAY Four-stroke outboard engines have been around for a few years. First there were the high horsepower models and then later came the small horsepower engines. This current model year might be call the "Year of the Midrange FourStrokes." Most companies have taken the proven design of the larger fourstrokes and integrated new technology. Yamaha has taken the reliable overhead cam design and put a lot of power into a small package. The F-40 model uses a transistorized control ignition system for reliability. It is controlled by a micro-computer and produces a clean running engine, said David Meeler, Product Marketing Information Manager for Yamaha. The F-40 uses an electronic fuel injection system that has proven itself on Yamaha engines of the past. Sensors in the system monitor the engine and the atmospheric conditions. They produce an engine that starts easily in both hot and cold conditions. Just turn the key. It also operates on 87 octane fuel found in most marinas. This is the first year, this engine has the optional electonic Command Link Control gauges popular with the larger Yamaha models. The variable rpm control on the F-40 runs between 650 and 900 rpms either up or down in 50 rpm increments and hold the speed desired. The control is available on the multifishing tiller which is front mounted making it possible to operate the boat using a single hand. This fishing tool makes is possible to troll and pass over fish, then turn around and go back over them at the same throttle speed as long as the engine is not pushed over 3,000 rpm. Yamaha expects this engine to show up on aluminum boats, pontoon boats, fishing boats, inflatables and some of the bass boats. Mercury Marine's entry in this field is the Flyway 25 EFI four stroke. It has a battery-free electronic fuel injection system and is available in electric and manual start models. It has available power trim or gas assist and standard dual water pickups in the gear case making for ease of getting into shallow water. The Flyway 25 EFI's multi-functional tiller handle allows for control shift, throttle, throttle friction, steeling, trim and stopping with one hand. It is available in both tiller and remote control versions. For the waterfowler, it comes with Advantage camouflage pattern designed by Jordan Outdoor Enterprises, Ltd. The pattern incorporates cattails, millet, milo, corn stalks, sunflowers, oak and maple leaves, cedar and oak limbs plus a variety of other plant life. For the Honda loyalists, there is the BF40 and BF50 outboards for 2009. The goal for these models was to boost efficiency, add electronic fuel injection and reduce weight. The Lean Burn Control technology yields fuel savings of nearly 20 percent. Holeshot and acceleration are improved by advancing ignition spark timing. The engine control module increases injection timing to produce a more potent air/fuel mixture. Regardless the end use, the midrange motors are a welcome addition to the outboard marine engine field. Each year technology improves the size, appearance, and workability of the outboard engine for use by outdoorsmen and women. Don Gasaway is a long-time boating columnist for Tennessee Valley Outdoors. He is interested in everything outdoors, but specializes in boats. He lives in Marion, Illinois and can be reached at [email protected] tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com Book of Boats 2009 Fiberglass Boats Aries www.aries-boats.com Standard Equipment: 100% Hand Laid Construction • Limited Life Time Warranty • All Composite Transom & Hull Reinforcement • Registered Transom Lock System • All Fiberglass Inner Liner • High Performance "V" Hull Design • Poly Flake Finish with Gelcote Hull • 2 Large Rod Lockers • 4 Dry Storage Boxes • Front Deck Step with Storage • Tournament Live-well with Recirculate - Pump Out System • Large Ice Chest between Seats • Big Man console with Tact, Speedometer, Fuel, Volt, Trim, Water Pressure Gauges • Modular Passenger Side Console with Glovebox • Windshields • Pro-Tech Cushioned Front Deck • Automatic Bilge Pump • 40 Gallon Fuel System • 2 Bank Battery Charger - 10 Amp per Bank • Interior Light • Teleflex Sea Star Hydraulic Steering • Custom Steering Wheel • Plush Marine Grade Carpet • plus much, much more. Book of Boats 2009 Fiberglass Boats Bullet www.bulletboats.com The bullet is a true high performance hull and a serious fishing platform. The forward casting deck is spacous and uncluttered. In fact, the 21XRD raised deck extends back into the cockpit 10 inches further than the 21XD’s deck that makes the forward casting platform positively huge without taking away from the aft platform. The cockpit is all business. A foot throttle resides under the single drivers console and Telefax Seastar Pro hydraulic steering and trim controls help keep the Mercury outboard in line. The cushion-grip custom steering wheel feels thick and solid. There is little in the way of wind protection for the driver and absolutely none for the passenger, so this is without a doubt, a purist’s rig. Length: 20’10” Beam: 7’7” Weight: 1285 lbs Fuel Capacity: 35 gallons TENNESSEE VALLEY OUTDOORS • JANUARY 2009 tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com Book of Boats 2009 Book of Boats www.procraftboats.com Whether you´re a pro-angler or a water sports enthusiast, the feature-packed 200 Combo is just the boat for you. Length: STANDARD FEATURES: 20’4.5” Comfort, Safety & Convenience, Folding boarding ladder Beam: Glove Box/Cooler Compartment, Non-skid swim plat96” form, Passenger grab handle, Stowable ski tow bar, FlotaWeight: tion Meets or Exceeds NMMA and U.S. Coast Guard Re1850 lbs quirements, Convertible top, Construction, Hand Laid Fuel Capacity: Hull, ProGuard 10 -ear Hull Warranty, Composite Foam 36 gallons Filled Stringer System, Custom/Performance, Factory rigged to Mercury® Marine specifications, Stainless steel propeller, Dash/Console, Sirius® Capable AM/FM CD Player w/ MP3 Jack. Book of Boats 2009 Stratos www.skeeterboats.com When it comes to crossing rogue wakes and handling tight turns, no other bass boat performs like a Skeeter. The sophisticated design and practical application of the SX180 make it an excellent choice for smart anglers who want affordable performance and a soft, dry ride. www.stratosboats.com Smooth, quiet, solid, stable and focused on fishing... Welcome to the added confidence, total performance muscle and unbelievable price of the all-new 2009 Stratos 1760DV. Engineered to easily outdistance the dated technology of noisy aluminum boats, this multi-species model is available as a single or dual console and offers a world of floor, storage and fishing space. Deep inside the fiberglass design, the 100% composite construction works with foam-filled fiberglass stringers and a polyurethane composite transom to deliver optimum strength and durability. The specially-engineered hull carries a wider footprint and is geared for strong performance with outboards from 75 to 115 hp. Combined with the added efficiency of No-Feedback steering and solid tracking features, the 1760 offers a rewarding alternative to the weaker traits of aluminum designs. Book of Boats 2009 Fiberglass Boats Fiberglass Boats Skeeter 2009 Fiberglass Boats Fiberglass Boats Procraft 29 Triton www.tritonboats.com Triton's New X3 Series Triton boats have always been renowned for their Length: smooth, dry ride, but the extra-wide stance of the X3 Se209’9” ries takes rough-water riding comfort and handling to a Beam: new plateau. Due to their wider running surface, the X3s 95” deliver the smoothest ride of any boat in the Triton lineup. Suggested HP: This extra width in turn equates to a faster hole shot 175-250 – up to 30% faster than past Triton models. Bury the throttle Fuel Capacity: and the X3’s bowrise stays minimal as the boat literally 53 gallons launches from a dead stop onto its running pad in mere Livewell: seconds! . Fishability of the new Triton X3 Series is unpar44.5 gallons alleled in the bass boating industry. 30 BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com Book of Boats 2009 Book of Boats Fiberglass Boats Charger Fiberglass Boats www.chargerboats.com 396 LIFETIME WARRANTY-100% COMPOSITE Length: At Charger, two things are always on our minds: Boats & 19’9” fishing. Sound familiar? Beam: Imagine this: A versatile boat that's just under 20 feet 95.5” long but with a wide beam of over 95 inches. It runs great Weight: with a 200 horsepower motor, but can handle a 225. It has 1600 lbs everything you expect in a top of the line bass boat...and Fuel Capacity: more, could that be your perfect boat? 44 gallons That's why we designed and built the new Charger 396. The 396 has all the features a fisherman needs, like Suggested HP: 225 raised forward & rear casting decks, a standard Lowrance X-52 Depthfinder w/surface temperature and our RecirculatingCharge-Air Livewell system. Sea Star hydraulic steering. www.theboatshow.org 2009 Nitro www.nitroboats.com NITRO® Z-9 CDC gives you room to fish the perimeter of the boat and the unique design allows a better weight distribution by putting you and your passenger nearer the centerline. Features include a Lowrance® LCX-27C color fish finder wth GPS and 24V MotorGuide® trolling motor. Whether you fish for a living or simply live to fish, you'll want a boat like this. Length: 20’9” Beam: 96” Weight: 1250 lbs. Suggested HP 300 SHOW HOURS KNOXVILLE, TN Thursday & Friday: 3pm - 9pm Saturday: 10am - 9pm • Sunday: Noon - 6pm ADMISSION - $7.00 CHILDREN UNDER 10 FREE JAN 29th - FEB 1st and FEB 5th - 8th DOCKS & LIFTS • CRUISERS • SKI BOATS • DECK BOATS • PONTOONS • BASS BOATS Madisonville Marine • FISHING BOATS • PERSONAL WATERCRAFT • BOATING SUPPLIES Spot Red THE KNOXVILLE EXPO I-75, EXIT 108 CLINTON HWY @ MERCHANTS DRIVE THE BEST DEALS OF THE YEAR! FREE G! PA R K I N THE ONLY! SHOW SPONSORED BY THE EAST TENN MARINE TRADE ASSOCIATION 20 LOCAL DEALERS WITH OVER 200 BOATS ON DISPLAY! BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com 31 Skeeter expands Skeeter Products, Inc., manufacturer of Skeeter brand boats, has recently completed a capital expansion program at the company’s Kilgore, Texas manufacturing plant, increasing the company’s productivity and efficiency, and prepping it to accommodate future growth of its fiberglass boat operations. The core component of the expansion project is a new 25,000 square-foot warehouse facility, allowing the company to store all of its raw materials under one roof, and in a central location. The space will feature adjustable racking systems, designated office space and multiple truck docks to accommodate shipping and receiving. The space is also climate controlled for temperature sensitive materials, including decals, emblems and nonskid mats, etc. “We began construction on our capital expansion project in February of this year, and hope that this will provide a better working environment for our materials and our employees,” says Mike Taylor, Skeeter’s Vice President of Operations. “This will increase our efficiency, providing a more streamlined approach to the unloading of materials and transferring them.” ...will be held at the Jacobs Building at Chilhowee Park Bunch Marine in Knoxville, TN Full Color January 15th thru 18th For more information, visit: www.EastTnFishingShow.com Featured at the show: Kids casting contest Reynolds Marine SPOT RED Admission: $5 per Adult FREE for kids 12 and under. Sponsored by: REYNOLDS RACING AND MARINE 1019 S ROANE ST., HARRIMAN TN I-40 EXIT 347, HWY 27N 1 MILE CALL GLENN REYNOLDS 865-882-9623 www.ReynoldsRacingMarine.com 32 BOOK OF BOATS • JANUARY 2009 SHOW ADDICT Continued from page 22 Older athletic shoes are not a good idea as they lack support necessary to cushion your feet. They are like walking barefoot and can lead to foot problems as well as fatigue. If the outside weather is cold, then you need to do something with your coat. Carrying it is a nuisance. If the show provides a coat checking service, it is worth the cost. If not, perhaps you might want to leave it in the vehicle. A third alternative is to put it in a backpack. Backpacks are also a good place for brochures that you pick up at the show. You can acquire a considerable number of them in the course of visiting all the booths. Although the weight of a brochure is not much, the weight of many brochures is a lot. If you do not remember to bring your backpack, then look for a booth that is passing out plastic "shopping bags." Look around at the other people carrying bags and check for reinforced handles. They are the ones you want. Another help is to take frequent breaks and examine what you have accumulated. Sometimes it is stuff that you do not really want. You can stop for a soft drink and a hot dog while culling your materials. If after reading the brochure you still have some questions, go back to the booth and get answers. It is easier than calling or writing from home later. Finally, check your notes. Did you miss anything that you had intended to see? Attendance at sports shows is a great opportunity to gain the maximum benefit from your money. Don Gasaway is a freelance writer who specializes in the boating industry. He is a regular columnist for Tennessee Valley Outdoors. He lives in Marion, Illinois. Four strokes require different lubrication tennesseevalleyoutdoors.com Book of Boats Fiberglass Boats By DON GASAWAY The new and heavy duty engines produced by the marine industry operate differently from your father's outboard. They have reduced engine emissions and increased reliability. But, with that comes a need for lubrication. And that lubrication is different. "The four-stroke engine is engineered to last," says Yamaha's David Meeler. He ought to know since he has been on the ground floor of the very successful introduction of that company’s four-stroke outboard engines. Speaking to the media last spring in Jacksonville, Florida, Meeler introduced the company’s Yamalube, a line of lubrication products for the needs of four-strokes. The company had a low phosphorous product that they feel has been made better with the addition of molybdenum compounds to increase the lubricity of it. Since fourstroke engines have a tendency to operate at very high rpms for sustained periods of time, they need the increased strength of those compounds as additives. This is a requirement not required with automobile engines. Marine engines also change rpms quite a bit and quite rapidly. Marine engines operate in an environment quite different from automobile engines and as such require lubrication that is different. As a result it is not wise to use automobile oil in a four-stroke engine. "The low phosphorous oil containing the molybdenum compounds provide an 85% reduction in wear over the previous formulas," reports Meeler. "The new formula reduces ash deposits that get on intake valves and suck the power out of an engine." The oil contains a proprietary blend of detergents, dispersants, and other additives. These are anti-corrosive inhibitors not contained in automotive oil. Yamalube is made specifically for the four-stroke engines and for use in a marine environment. It comes in 10W-30 weight for normal climatic conditions and 20W-40 weight for warmer climates. 2009 G3 www.g3boats.com G3 quality teams up with the quiet power of Minn Kota® to produce a "green machine" for everyone who lives near restricted access lakes. This all new, all-electric Eagle 176 is always good to go, whether your favorite lake has horsepower, emission, noise or speed restrictions. Fish in a noise-free, gas-free environment and enjoy all of the quality amenities found on the G3 Eagle series. Isn't it time to recharge YOUR batteries? Length: 17’7” Beam: 80” Livewells: 2 - 27 gallons Book of Boats 2009 Fiberglass Boats Phoenix-BeeLine www.phoenixbassboats.com • OFFERED IN IDE ARRAY OF CUSTOM COLORS • LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY •ALL COMPOSITE CONSTRUCTION INCLUDING TRANSOM & STRINGERS • HIGH QUALITY CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS INCLUDING CCP ARMORCOTE GELCOAT AND ASHLAND AME5000 RESIN • TELEFLEX HYDRAULIC TILT STEERING • 12" ADJUSTABLE JACK PLATE • HIGH PERFORMANCE STAINLESS STEEL PROPELLER • MOTOR-GUIDE FW71 FB 45" 24V 20.8MT TROLLING MOTOR • MINN KOTA MK 220 BATTERY CHARGER • BEE-SAFE EMERGENCY REBOARDING LADDER • FIRE EXTINGUISHER & HORN • CUSTOM TWO-TONE CONTOURED BUCKET SEATS WITH FOLD DOWN BENCH SEAT WITH DRINK HOLDERS • ATTWOOD FOLD DOWN FISHING SEAT