Posts tagged ‘teach’s Llair marina’
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
Move Over Ladies – It’s the Men’s Turn
Great job for those ladies who fished the Alice Kelly. This tournament brought plenty of excitement to the marina.
Now it’s the men’s turn. Its four days of hardcore offshore fishing. There are 59 boats and over 400 anglers fishing in this tournament. The purse is huge and the competition is fierce. This one is for all the marbles.
If you missed the awards ceremony and party on Sunday night, there are four this week with the awards dinner and party on Friday.
Boats arrive at the dock anywhere from 1630 to 1800. Be there to welcome the anglers back.
Until next time, Tightlines
Tournament Time – 2011
August is the time of the season where the big time fishing tournaments are held.
This weekend the Pirates Cove Fishing Center holds the 22nd Annual and most popular “Ladies Only” Alice Kelly Memorial Billfish Tournament. This event supports the Outer Banks Cancer Support group. Registeration is 13 August with fishing the following day. Don’t forget – Boat decorating happens on Saturday – not to be missed for fun and laughs.
Following this event, on Tuesday begins the 28th Annual and “World Class” Billfish Fishing Tournament. This tournament runs from 15-19 August. This is for all the marbles. Big time boats come for all over just to be apart of the fabulous event. You gotta say – “I was there for this one!! Shirts are available in the ships store.
If you have the time, this is a “can’t miss” event on the Outer Banks. Parties are held each evening with popular bands and food supplied by our local restaurants. Come see the boats return from the sea. Best times are late afternoon around 1600-1700 hrs.
Best news on this post is that my “First Mate” is fishing on Sunday – Good Luck Ladies!!
Until next time – Tightlines
Summer Doldrums
Fishing in July always ends up being slow. The fish are stressed due to the fluctuation of water temperatures. Our highest water temps got into the 80’s and then as magic, they drop to upper 50’s. We are still catching bottom fish from the piers, bridges and surf. As always, the best times to fish is in the early morning and evening.
Also, July brings with it those oppressive temperatures. So let’s talk about taking care of yourself. You must keep hydrated. Drink plenty of plain water. It seems alcohol also increases your thirst. Save those “cold ones” for the dock.
Whenever fishing on the water, I wear loose-fitting nylon shirts and shorts and a wide brim hat. Most sporting goods shops sell UPF/UV protection clothing. I favor Columbia gear. Worth every penny at keeping the sun off you and keeping you cool.
Fishing on the surf or pier, the sun can play tricks on you when the clouds block the sun. UV rays are bouncing everywhere, so a good sun screen and eye protection are imperative.
Heat exposure is a dangerous condition for everyone especially those young and older. Watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion. If left un-attended could lead to a very dangerous condition.
When fishing in July and August, look for shady areas or if you find yourself in the sun, limit your exposure.
Until next time,
Tightlines
Celebrating the 4th in Style
Happy Fourth of July!!. As we celebrate this holiday, we need to take a moment to remember those dedicated men and women throughout our history who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. For without that commitment to the cause of freedom, we would not be able to enjoy this day.
So on this beautiful day from the Outer Banks, I would like to toast those who served to our country both past and present with my traditional July 4th menu from Capt Tony’s.
I salute you!!
TIghtlines
Special Message from the US Coast Guard 2011
This past Saturday marked the start of National Safe Boating Week 2011. It is no coincidence that this week, focused on educating boaters about the latest safe boating practices, takes place in the days leading up to Memorial Day weekend, the traditional start of the recreational boating season. Whether you plan to spend the summer sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding or just relaxing by the water, it is important to educate yourself on proper safe boating practices as you enjoy the majesty of our nation’s lakes, rivers and coasts.
Many of you will be taking your boats out for the first time in months and should keep an eye out for the men and women of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Nationwide, the Auxiliary offers free vessel safety checks at various locations convenient to boaters including docks, marinas and launch ramps. The vessel safety check is a courtesy examination to see if your boat is properly equipped for an emergency. One of the best aspects of the safety check, besides the fact that it is free, is that it does not constitute law enforcement activity and citations are not issued regardless of the result of the exam. If you don’t know when the examinations will take place in your area, you can always schedule one here.
Until next time, Tightlines
Fish Stories
Thought for the day:
“Don’t tell fish stories where the people know you; but particularly, don’t tell them where the people know the fish.” Mark Twain.
Cape Hatteras Off-Shore Fishing
We had an opportunity to do an off-shore trip this past Friday and had a great time. First mate and I traveled south to Cape Hatteras, stayed in Buxton and fished out of Teach’s Lair Marina. 
Weather was a patchy with sun and clouds. Temps ranged a warm 70 when the sun was out to a cool 65 under the clouds. Constant north winds kept us cool. Two to three foot swells made the day interesting. We had several brief showers but they never reduced our enthusiasm for the day.
Teach’s Lair is a small full service marina at the southern most point, near the ferry dock, with 12 vessels that travel off-shore and 5 that stay in or near shore. We fished with Capt Derek on the Carolina Girl. This vessel is a 42′ Carolina Custom sportfishing boat. Brian, his first mate, worked had all day to make our trip a memorable one.
We fished mostly east and south of Ocracoke, NC. Ran into several scattered dolphin, false albacore and huge bluefish. Teased several Wahoo but could not entice them to the bait. Overall a great day on the water.
I would definitely recommend Capt Derek and the Carolina Girl to a good day on the water.
When fishing out of Cape Hatteras, there a several nice hotels and restaurants to choose from. We stayed at the Lighthouse View Motel in Buxton. This was about 20 minutes north of the marina. All of the rooms were very accommodating with half facing the ocean. Small frig, microwaves and wireless in each room. A very good value.
We ate at to local favorites, Captains Table for dinner and the Orange Bloom Cafe for breakfast. Two places that should not be missed.
So if you are looking for an in-expensive off-shore trip, do not overlook traveling about an hour south of the Nags Head and try the Carolina Girl or other boats moored at the Teach’s Lair Marina.
The first mate and I will definitely be back.
Tightlines.
NCsaltaire 