Archive for August, 2013
Fouled Fuel – Summer Blues
It happens without notice. You have been boating all summer without any problems then boom. The engines start to sputter and spit. Not only does this prevent the higher RPM’s and speed; you can’t even keep the engine running at idle. Well welcome to the age of ethanol.
This summer was no different than most. I have been running the little Fantasea II each weekend I can without any problem. She starts right up with a little coaxing from the prime bulb on the 2 cycle Yamaha engine and away I go.
Then three weeks ago when I tried to go out, she coughed several times and died. I continued to prime the carbs and switch on the ignition. But to no avail. I believe the ethanol bandit got me again. I ran gas treatment full strength through the carbs – but no luck. So now it’s shop time and a busted budget.
So here is some advice on preventing this same thing from happening to you.
Today’s fuel contains up to 10% Ethanol. Ethanol is made with corn and water and when it mixes with petroleum, ““by magic” it produces gummy substance. And when this gummy substance filters into those small jet ports in the carb and sits there for a short time, well your carbs will sputter and spit and eventually stop. Hopefully, you are in port and moored when this happens.
Now there are three ways to fix this problem. Obviously, the more expensive way is the repair shop. This can cost several hundred dollars. And if this happens in the middle of boating season, your boat can be out of commission for at least several weeks and empty quite a bit out of your wallet.
The second way – and the best way – is to run a fuel additive in you tank every fill up. I use several together. I have found many types of additives on the market. I prefer to use Gas Shok and Sta-Bil combined. I probably could use one or the other but each together gives me piece of mind. I also will use Sea Foam when the boat will not be used for extended period. Not only does this control moisture, it helps increase your performance.
The final way is to try to use only “ethanol free” fuel. This type of fuel has limited availability. I have found several stations and marinas here on the Outer Banks that carry the ethanol free fuel. It is usually same price and other fuels and definitely gives you piece of mind.
Since I have been using this régime of using ethanol free fuel or stabilizer, my maintenance and down time have been minimal.
Prevention is always the best medicine. My recommendation is to use “ethanol free fuel and if you can’t find it, put at least one stabilizer in your boat fuel tanks with each fill up. If you find that you boat will be sitting and not being used for a while then I always add another measured amount. The stabilizer is a lot less expensive than the shop and it will keep you running smooth all year.
Until next time – Tightlines. Capt. Tony
All-Star Week – It’s Tournament Time
All-star weeks happen in all sports. This can be associated with NASCAR, Football, Baseball or Olympics. And on the Outer Banks – All Star week is the Annual Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament. This year the tournament is 30 years. WOW – How time flies.
I was, I can say with confidence, “Hooked” on this tournament from the first time I visited Pirate Cove Marina many years ago. Guessing – I have not missed many of these over the years.
The tournament always begins with the “Ladies”. This is the “Alice Kelly” all Ladies tournament held during the first weekend. Then the men take their turn. And it’s a doggie eat dog time. The money is impressive as is the bragging rights to who will own the crown.
The fishing and competition is fierce and partying is lively. The food is outstanding and as well at the entertainment. I have spent two nights this week just walking the docks and witnessing angling history in the making. The last report had over 60 boats catching and releasing well over 200 billfish. I plan to be there tonight to see all the “marbles” happening.
So what are you doing this week? If you are at or near the Outer Banks this week – Pirates Cove is the place to be.
Awards night is Friday. It appears this tournament will be another photo finish. The last fish caught today may make a certain angler famous. It’s just incredible with the anticipation.
For a great experience and memories that will last a lifetime, make a point to meet some of the best offshore anglers on the east coast – then 30th Annual Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament is the place to be.
It’s habit you will never break – I couldn’t break it – not even after 30 years.
And guess what – you never know who you will meet there. I met Captain Wild Bill this week. Who will you meet?
Until next time – Tightlines. Capt. Tony
Summer Fishing is Now
The first weekend in August means the advent of summer fishing. The summer has been extremely exciting for me.
I have fished from Duck to Cape Hatteras – catching near citation pompano in Buxton, landing plenty of speckled trout and dozens of small bottom fish at the various bridges and piers and surf.
I can’t think of a previous year that was this phenomenal.
So let’s talk about what we should focus on for the remainder of the summer.
I would recommend hitting the surf. Bottom fish are abundant right now in the wash. This method is an in-expensive way to enjoy angling and a great way to introduce the young ones to a fantastic hobby.
The equipment should be a light to medium 6 to 7 foot rod with a spinning reel. You can pick up a complete rod /reel set at any variety store but I recommend a local tackle shop. Not only will they provide a superior gear but advice to catch fish.
Bottom rigs with #2 or #4 “J” hooks are perfect. Look at the wave height and match the sinker to the current which will allow you to keep the bait fixed on the bottom.
In some cases, we want the bait to move in the wash, so don’t just focus on always holding the bottom – bank sinkers work best here.
Bait of choice is blood worms, fresh shrimp and sand fleas. I typically buy “table fare” (eating) shrimp and dig my own sand fleas. A lot of anglers use squid. And this is good bait for flounder but unless you are very patient, you will not find flounder as plentiful as other bottom fish. And young anglers can get bored quickly. So go after the more abundant species.
I always try to fish in the mornings and evenings. Fish feed more aggressively during these times.
Several other items you will need would be a sand spike, cutting board, and small bait knife, cooler to keep the bait fresh. I always take several extra rigs, hooks and weights so if I need to change out – they are available. A bucket, chair and fluids should round out the list.
So now you are ready – Right? Not quite. In North Carolina you need a license to fish. The local tackle shop can help here with the license requirements.
One final note – knows the species bag limits and only keep what you can use. And return the rest to be caught again.
So now you are ready. Good luck and keep me updated on your success.
Until next time – Tightlines. Capt. Tony
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