Every time you step outside and walk around you are picking up dirt and debris onto the bottoms of your shoes. The more we travel and walk around, the more of this dirt and debris is deposited in other locations from where it was originally picked up. The same scenario is true each time we go fishing or boating out on the water. Plants, animals and other organisms attach to the bottom of our boats, clothes and anything that we placed in the water. When we go somewhere else, these species can be transferred from us to the new location, and begin a new life causing many problems. Some forms of common aquatic hitchhikers include zebra mussels, hydrilla, whirling disease, spiny water fleas, round gobies and water hyacinth.

There are some simple steps we can take to prevent these aquatic hitchhikers.

1. Check your area including the bottom of your boat and clear it from any mud, fish, plants or other species you see.
2. Remove any water from your equipment and clean and dry anything that also came in contact with water including your clothes, pets, boats and trailers.
3. Only release plants, animals and species back into the water from which they came.

It is very important to follow these practices because not doing so can have a very bad effect on our fishing and boating areas. These aquatic hitchhikers can have some of the following effects.

1. Reduce the water’s game fish population.
2. Damage boat engines and steering equipment.
3. Cause our lakes to become unusable.
4. Diminish the population of native species.
5. Affect our health

The next time you go out boating or fishing remember to check for aquatic hitchhikers before you leave the water. For more information about preventing aquatic hitchhikers, visit www.protectyourwaters.net. And visit the Dallas Boat Show 2012 to view the latest in boating, hunting, fishing and the outdoors!

When buying a terrain vehicle for hunting, fishing, camping or off-roading, there is more than one type you can choose from. The two choices are an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) and an UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle). They each serve different purposes, but what is the difference between an ATV and an UTV and which one would you suite you better?

All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV)

ATV’s are smaller in size than an UTV and therefor can be more easily towed by a truck. Also, due to their smaller size, they are a little sportier and handle more tightly. The ATV is good in more compact areas and can maneuver closely. The driver must maintain good balance and control given the ATV’s quickness. ATV’s generally come with a rack on the back to strap equipment and small loads down. ATV’s are also generally less expensive than UTV’s, especially considering how high-tech both types of vehicles are becoming.

Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV)

UTV’s are also referred to as a side-by-side. This is due to the driver and passenger riding next to each other or side-by-side. UTV’s also have a rear cargo bed, which can haul a much larger load than an ATV. UTV’s are also equipped with roll bars or a safety cage to keep passengers protected. The seats of a UTV are more truck like, which differs from the ATV. This makes for a more comfortable ride, especially over many miles of terrain. UTV’s generally carry a higher sticker price than an ATV and there are many customizations available for your UTV.

The next time you are in the market for either an ATV or UTV, remember these points. Decide which type of off-road vehicle will better suite you and your needs. For more information and help, stop by the Dallas Boat Show 2012 and you’ll be riding happy trails soon!

We all know that when we are out and about in our car, there are rules of the road that must be followed. The same is true of boating. Whenever you take your boat out onto the water, there are rules of the water that all boaters need to abide by. These rules and etiquette have been put in place for a reason; to keep everyone on the water safe and having a good time. Follows these rules and proper boat etiquette to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating trip.

Be Cautious of Your Wake
Abide by the wake signs posted out on the water and be careful not to create big wakes in a crowded area. You are responsible for any damage done to another boat caused by your wake.

Slow Down to Oncoming Boats
If another boat out on the water is trying to pass you up, slow down and let them do so. It is safest for everyone.

Watch Your Boat’s Noise
If you have a noisy boat, be respectful of your neighbors and leave plenty of distance between you and the other boats.

Ramp Responsibility
Try to launch and unload as safely and quickly as possible. Have your responsibilities delegated before you get to the boat ramp and if possible, practice launching the boat before you get to the ramp.

Fueling Up
This is similar to launching in that you should do this as safely and quickly as possible. Everyone would rather be out on the water, so be considerate of others and manage your time accordingly.

Help Each Other Out
If you come across troubled boaters, stop and help or call the ranger. It just takes a minute of your time to help out your fellow boaters and make sure everyone keep safe.

The next time you take your friends and family out on the water remember these common etiquette tips. To learn more about boating etiquette and Texas water law visit www.tpwd.state.tx.us. And for more information and the latest in boats, hunting and fishing, visit the Dallas Boat Show 2012. See you there!

There are many accessories that every hunter needs on their outdoor adventure. The right pair of hunting boots is just as important if not more than anything else you will purchase. Your hunting boots need to keep your feet warm, dry and comfortable and can be key in the success of your hunt. If you can’t walk, you can’t hunt!

The next time you are in need of hunting boots the following guide will help you to choose the best ones for your needs.

Hunting boots are generally made from three different materials, leather, fabric or rubber. Leather boots are typically thought of to be the best material for a boot. Also, generally speaking, the thicker the leather is, the better quality the boot. Leather boots are not 100% waterproof, but can be made so using a chemical treatment.

Canvas and nylon are another fabric used in hunting boots. Although less expensive and lighter than leather, fabric boots typically do not last as long as leather.

The main attraction to rubber boots is that unlike leather and fabric, they are waterproof. However, they can tear from sharp objects and cause your feet to get wet from your own perspiration.

The type of fabric is not the only component of your hunting boot that will help keep your feet warm. Insulation plays an important role in this as well. Boot insulation is made up of either micro-fiber or thinsulate, felt or foam. Choosing how much insulation your boot should have depends on a couple factors: how susceptible you are to cold feet and the amount of activity on your hunt. For more active hunts less insulation will suffice, whereas a hunt that you tend to stand still more would use a thicker insulated boot.

As you shop for your next pair of hunting boots, keep the above information in mind. Also, consider the frequency of use and type of hunt. For more detailed information visit Bass Pro Shops buying guide and stop by the Dallas Boat Show 2012. Ultimately, choose the boot that meets all your needs and is the most comfortable for your feet.

Do you remember learning to fish with your parents? Most of us do. It’s a childhood memory that we will keep in our hearts forever. When it is time to pass these memories onto your children here are some ideas to make their first fishing trips as memorable as yours.

The most important thing to remember when you take your children out for the first fishing trips is to have fun! Your children are out on the boat with you to learn about fishing and you are there to teach them. Make this time fun, as this will have them asking to fish again. Depending on your child’s age, decide whether your “fishing” trip will be all about fishing or whether you will spend time participating in other activities. Some to consider include skipping stones, swimming or wading the water, finding insects and floating sticks and leaves.

Review the basics of fishing with your child. Use simple tackle, such as spincast tackle, and try not to use any that is too expensive. Be sure you have the correct license and if you plan to eat your catch, don’t forget a cooler or stringer to keep your catch fresh.

As you are fishing with children, remember to accommodate them as best you can while out on the water. Bring kid-friendly snacks and clothing for any type of weather you may encounter. Other necessities when out on a boat with children include, life jackets, sunscreen, hats and insect repellent. It may be a good idea to have a first aid kit handy as well. Keeping your fishing location close to home may also help to ensure a fun fishing trip. Kids tend to tire easily, and this will help to keep them from getting burnt out.

Wherever you choose to go for your first trip, keep these ideas in mind to make it a very memorable experience. For more ideas on family fishing trips, visit the Dallas Boat Show 2012. And, may you have many more fun-filled family fishing trips with your children.