4 Top Boating Activities to Do During Off Season

Fishing and boating have thrill and excitement. No feeling can replace the joy of spending a day on the water, especially for avid anglers. But the off-season is inevitable. While you would be eager to go back offshore, there are certain things that you can do in preparation for the next season.

Activities That You Can Do in Off-Season

1. Stock Equipment for Boating & Fishing

When you are not boating, you can look and collect the inventory that can be useful on the water. At Alberni Industrial Marine Supply, we have a complete line of boat cleaners, accessories, fibreglass repair, rescue equipment, rain gear, and fishing equipment. Here, you can find all the required marine electronics and other components that make your boating & fishing adventures more enjoyable.

Below are a few essential things.

1) Ropes

Alberni Industrial Marine Supply Ltd. has a great collection of ropes available per foot or the entire roll. You might only need to use the ropes sometimes you go on your boat. However, keeping them in a proper, usable condition is advisable. In case of brittle or tear, you should replace it.

2) Safety Wear

Safety comes first over everything! Equipment like life jackets, once bought, can be kept for years if stored & appropriately maintained. Check for any mould, wear or tear on the jacket. Buy a new one from the marine supply store near you if you find issues or if it is pretty old.

3) Marine Electronics

Fishfinders, chart plotters, marine GPS, and other electronics on the vessel need regular monitoring for software updates, working of the gadgets, and replacement or upgrades whenever required.

4) Other Essentials

Flares, fire extinguishers, torches, and other essential equipment should be on your checklist when you go boating or fishing. Flares & fire extinguishers have a short lifespan. Hence, check for validity and replace them from time to time.

2. Visit Boat Shows

The off-season is the best time to explore events, brand-new fishing boats, and other latest marine equipment. Whether you plan to purchase a new vessel or not, you should visit boat shows in your area. You can meet marine experts there who would share their expertise and experience to make your next boating & fishing adventures more enjoyable. A world-class show is happening at the BC Place Stadium.

Vancouver International Boat Show is great to witness some of the best fishing vessels, boat engines, and other products. Alberni Power & Marine team will display the latest, industry-best boats, outboards, and other gears at Booth #703. Don’t miss meeting us there from Feb 1-5, 2023!

3. Update the Nautical Charts

GPS is an excellent option for marking navigational hazard locations, underwater surveying, mapping your fishing routes, etc., for more straightforward navigation. Marine experts recommend all boaters keep their charts up to date. Suppose you have bought Canadian Hydrographic Service Digital Charts from a registered dealer. In that case, you can update and download new editions from the CHS Digital Data Portal within two years of purchasing. You can also access the latest Canadian Coast Guard Notices on Mariner’s website using your chart number for updating paper charts manually.

Updated nautical charts are essential to ensure boating safety. Hence, do not avoid this critical point.

4. Make Upgrades and Repairs

When you are not boating, it’s the best time to look at your boat components for maintenance and upgrades. Check for boat repowering options, electronics upgrades, seats & interior updates, boat heating, and re-paint work to have a fresh look & optimized performance in the next fishing season.

You can find many places for boat repair in Vancouver, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, and other cities in British Columbia. However, we advise you to connect with only professional, experienced service providers to get quality work done according to your requirements and product specifications.

Conclusion

2023 boating season is around the corner. This time is right to prepare for it! At Alberni Power & Marine, we are here to fulfill your boating needs during both on & off seasons. Our experienced, skilled, and certified team of marine specialists in BC is always ready to solve any of your queries. Contact us today if you are still looking for the best fishing boat dealers on Vancouver Island, Canada.