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How often should you use Marine STA-BIL? The short answer for all marine equipment is it should be used AT EVERY FILL-UP for ultimate, year-round protection against corrosion. One treatment of the product will stabilize the fuel for up to 12 months (only if added to fresh fuel). Sta-Bil provides defense against the harmful effects of ethanol-blended fuels and contains industry-leading water removal properties.

Why should you use Marine Sta-Bil? Some new ethanol fuel blends can start to degrade in just 30 days. That can lead to problems with starting and performance, leading to a day of frustration rather than one of fun and sun on the water. Ethanol has become the bane of boaters and can lead to serious catastrophic damage left untreated.

I use ethanol-blended fuels, now what? Fortunately, there is a solution to this growing problem. Adding a fuel stabilizer to your boat’s fuel supply can help ensure safe starts and peak performance.

My boat's fuel can sit a lot, should I do something different? If you don’t get out on the water as much as you would like or are winterizing your boat and fuel, our Sta-Bil fuel marine fuel additive lineup will help your engine last longer and run better. By protecting the fuel system from ethanol’s corrosive effects, this boat fuel additive guards against costly engine damage, headaches, and high repair bills.

If you want to legally operate a boat, the requirements for a boater's license varies from state to state. Our Bakers Marine guide to boating licenses will help you through it. First, only one state (Alabama) offers an actual boat license.

A boating license or boater's license are terms used to describe a boating safety certificate offered by some states, or a boater education card issued by other states.

A boater education card proves that you completed your state's official boating safety course.

State by State
Boating licensing requirements are different from state to state. All U.S. states require boater education, with the exception of Alaska, Idaho, Wyoming, South Dakota, Arizona, Arkansas and Maine.

In California, the California Department of Boating and Waterway requires boaters of specific ages to have a California Vessel Operator Card, or CVOC. In 2021, people 40 years old or younger were required to have a CVOC.
By 2025, all people (regardless of age) will need a CVOC to operate a boat on California waters.

In Texas, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is in charge of boater licensing, i.e., boating education cards. Boater education requirements in Texas affect all boaters born on or after Sept. 1, 1993. Completion of a Texas Parks and Wildlife-certified boater education course is recommended for older

You'll have to have the right boat and equipment, and a pre-selected spot you know will make a good launch site.

Pre-Launch Necessities
First, if you're launching a boat from a trailer, get everything in your boat before you reach the point of putting your boat in the water. Second, make sure everything on your boat works well before your solo boat launch.

Perform your equipment and safety tests; make sure you're up to date on your regular maintenance and safety checks. Are your buoys, boat fenders and ropes in position?

Have you practiced driving a vehicle with a boat on a trailer, whether you're headed for a lake or not? Is the boat plug in position (very important!)?

Solo Boat Launch Steps

If you're at a crowded dock or other boat launch spot, don't pay attention; focus on what you have to do to safely get your boat in the water. You'll want to back your trailer to the edge of the water, and then secure your vehicle's position by checking those parking brakes - twice.

The dock line that you bring along is what will guide your vessel into the water. Tie the dock line to your truck. Remove the boat tie-downs from the trailer. If you don't have waterproof trailer

Whether you're an old salt or a young salt, there's always something new and exciting you can learn about your boat. That goes from important everyday matters such as how to boat safely and how to keep your vessel in tip-top condition to fun facts and trivia you and your crew might have a gam about as you enjoy snacks and beverages together in a quiet cove with the waves lapping against your watercraft's gunwales.

Here at Bakes Marine, we have been selling, working on and playing on performance boats for more than three decades. That has given us ample time to learn about the ins and outs of getting the most out of time on the water. Along the way we have also picked up some fascinating factoids about the boating life. Even the savviest old sea dog can learn something new about boating. Jump on board and sail along with us if you want to learn some boating fun facts you probably didn't know.

Getting the Lingo Right

As in any pursuit, when it comes to boating, you have to know the lingo. For boating newbies, boating nomenclature can seem especially mysterious at first blush. As far as the typical tyro is concerned, terms such as starboard and larboard might as well be ancient Greek.

Starboard simply means right (when you are facing the boat's front, which only landlubbers would describe that way. The correct word for the front of the boat would be bow.)

Why is it called starboard? That's easy. Well, actually it's not that easy. Understanding the word requires a trip back in time to ancient boating methods as well as a dip into long-gone languages like Old English and proto-German. Starboard comes from the Old English word steorbord, meaning rudder and side. It describes how boats once were maneuvered, with a steering paddle positioned on the boat's right

It's seldom easy to find a great present for anyone. That goes double when it comes to boat gifts for Dad. Boating gifts for Dad can be hard to judge if you're not a boater yourself. Even if you've got blue water running through your veins, gifts for boat lovers can seem expensive.

Affordable Dad Gifts

But you really don't have to break the bank to find a great gift for Dad on Father's Day. True, he might really appreciate a brand new Malibu boat parked on a spiffy new trailer in the driveway on the big day. But there are lots of far more affordable options that will show your pops you care, appreciate all the watery adventures he has shared with you and hope to accompany him on many more. Bakes Marine has a few suggestions for ideal Father's Day gifts for boaters.

Apparel: Many a father has groaned inwardly as he has received the obligatory tie as a Father's Day present. Fortunately, you'll seldom see folks wearing ties on the water, so you can dodge this issue in the marine clothing category. The great thing about nautical apparel is that everyone can always use some new boating clothing. And because of the wide assortment of dads' duds available, you can be as generous or as thrifty as you want. Choose anything from a captain's cap or a pair of socks to a set of premium rain gear.

Sunglasses: Because of the glare and reflection of the water, every boater needs a good pair of shades. Not only will these help your father see better when he is peering into the distance trying to see where you are bobbing in the water on your water skis or wakeboard. They can also protect your pappy's aging eyes from long-term problems like cataracts.

Marine stereos and speakers: Just because your

Boats can look very spacious when you see them at a boat show or a dealer's lot. But once you get out on the water, a boat's holding capacity seems to magically shrink. Most things expand when you add water, but boats seem to shrink. Whether you are on the Queen Mary 2 or your own performance boat, space suddenly comes at a premium. And just as it is at home on land, so it is on a boat on water: you can never have too much storage and space.

Never fear. No matter what size your boat is, Bakes Marine is happy to offer you some outstanding boat organization and storage ideas.

Staying Alive

Life vests are a safety must for any boat trip. They can present a challenge in that you want to have them handy in case of emergency but out of the way when you don't need them. To help preserve your life preservers and keep them in the best shape for when you need to use them, you should keep your life vests out of the sun and as dry as possible. That's not an easy task out on the water.

Sometimes the simplest solution is best, and that includes life jacket storage ideas on boat outings. A life vest storage bag offers a simple, sensible and affordable solution. One of these will keep all your vests out of the way but accessible when you need them. Most come with handles, so you can carry them off your boat when you're through playing on the water for the day.

Keeping Warm

Blankets and beach towels may not seem as important as life vests, but you and your crew will be happy you have plenty of dry ones to keep comfortable on board or to take a break on the beach. A day in the water can quickly suck the heat out of a body. Keep these in a waterproof canvas bag for easy transport and to ensure everyone keeps nice

You've probably heard the old saw that the word boat stands for "break out another thousand." As with most sayings, there's a bit of truth in this hoary adage. Fortunately, by being proactive with your boat, you can tackle small problems before they get bigger and avoid a king-sized dent in your wallet. After all, a good boat represents a sizable investment for most folks.

Bakes Marine is happy to share with you some tips for dealing with common boat issues and maintenance. In fact, boat problems and maintenance are closely related. The more maintenance you do, the fewer problems you and your boat will likely encounter.

Boat Maintenance 101

Let's start with engine maintenance. Just as with your car and truck, regularly changing the motor oil in your boat will help extend the engine's life. Typically boat owners change the oil and oil filter annually or every 100 hours, whichever comes first. But check your owner's manual and don't be afraid to change the oil more often. It will be much cheaper than repairing or replacing the engine.

When you pop the hatch on your motor, visually inspect the engine closely. Pay special attention to parts that degrade over time, like hoses and belts. If your boat is taking on more water than normal, the bilge pump hose could be the problem.

Non-Starters and Rough Running

Boat won't start? You need to stay on top of battery issues to make sure your battery is in good condition and properly charged. The problem might also lie with boat parts like the starter. If you are handy, you can fix most starting issues yourself. If not, make sure to have a good mechanic give your boat a thorough going-over.

If your boat runs rough, the problem could be with the fuel supply, the spark plugs or a variety of other engine parts. Again, if you're mechanically inclined, you can tackle many of these problems yourself.

It's called pleasure boating for a reason. After all, the purpose of recreational boating is to have fun. You may not think of boating rules and regs as having anything to do with fun. But actually, most of the common lake boating rules in force around the country are based on common sense. Just as speed limits, traffic codes and driving rules are meant to ensure safety on land, boating laws are designed to ensure safety and good times for everyone on the water.

Licensed to Drive

Although some states have no requirements for a license to run a boat, many have been moving toward that practice in recent decades. Many requiring licenses "grandfather" in older boaters as safe but require younger boaters born after a certain date to have a license or pass a boating safety course. In addition, many states have minimum age limits for who can run a boat, generally running from 12 to 16 years of age. Be familiar with your own state's rules before you hand the wheel over to a younger person.

Just as on land, alcohol and drugs can cause collisions and fatalities on the water. That's why state and local authorities take a dim view of excessive alcohol intake and drug use. On some lakes, enforcement of driving under the influence is just as rigorous as it is on some highways and roads.

Also just as with land-bound motor vehicles, many states require boaters to carry insurance for their watercraft. Check with state boating authorities and your insurer to see what you need.

All states reqire personal flotation devices, aka PFDs or life vests, be carried in the proper number and sizes to accommodate everyone on your boat. Many states also require children under a certain age to wear a PFD while they are on a boat.

Boats over a certain length must be registered with the state. Many states require boat trailers to be registered too, although some states waive the requirement for

From the old sea dogs who centuries ago kept cats aboard their wooden ships to control rat populations in the hold, pets have long been as popular with their people on the water as they are on land. If you want to take your pet or pets on your boat, that's a great way for everyone to have even more fun on the water. But a few special considerations are in order before you head out. To ensure everyone has the best time possible, Bakes Marine offers a few easy tips for boating with pets.

Water Dogs

Most dogs just seem to be made for the water. A dog in a speedy boat with his ears flapping in the breeze can be a picture of pure joy. But if your dog or other pet has never been in a boat before, it's best to introduce this new experience to him gradually. After all, even just sitting in a boat with the waves and water lapping against its gunwales will be a new experience for sensitive pets. Before you get underway, let your pets hang out in the boat while it's docked for a while. Encourage them to explore the boat and get comfortable.

Boarding a boat from a dock can be tricky for humans. It can be even harder for pets. If your pet is small, it's a good idea to carry it on and off your boat so it doesn't drop into the drink between dock and boat. For bigger pets, a ramp or dog boat ladder will make the transition easier.

Outfit your critters with suitable life vests before leaving the dock. Create a plan for a "dog overboard" or "cat overboard" situation so you will be able to rescue any pets that fall out of your boat. You don't want to end up doing the doggy paddle with your pooch. It's a good idea to practice using a boat hook to retrieve your dog so he won't be scared of the situation in an emergency session. On a hot day, most dogs will really enjoy the practice.

Totally tubular - the dictionary claims that expression came from some rad California surfers in the '70s, but here at Bakes, we're inclined to believe that the association with awesomeness came from the towable tubes pulled behind performance boats.

And why not? Compared to surfing, tubing has many advantages. For one thing, you don't have to wait around for the perfect wave. Simply rev up the boat's engine and you can create endless waves in your wake. It's no wonder towable rafts and tubes are so popular.

Which tube is best for you? We get this question a lot, so we've compiled some suggestions based on our customers' favorite inflatables.

Terrific Tubes

First you'll have to determine how many fun-seekers will be riding each tube. A two-person tube is ideal for sparking a little intimacy in the water, while hot-doggers might prefer a one-person craft to show off their moves. Three-person tubes are perfect for groups of three amigos and four-person tubes are especially great for family outings.

If you're looking for a single-person tube, you might choose to go with a classic. The Radar Vortex Yellow Green Tube is the one that started it all and it remains a customer favorite.

When two's company, but three's a crowd, the Radar UFO Two-Person Tube may be the one that floats your boat. A classic tube with a modern twist, this oversized donut tube has an inflatable seat cushion.

For triple threats out there, the Radar Teacup Three-Person Tube is the way to go. This oversized classic