Category: November/December 2025
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Dynamic Trim Systems Comparison
Dynamic Trim Systems Comparison Dynamic trim systems help dampen the forces of the wind and sea. Tom King Trim tabs were once just a device fixed in place to lengthen a boat’s running surface and provide lift to its transom for a quicker, more level hole shot. When Bennett first introduced adjustable hydraulic tabs (installed…
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The Perils of an Unnamed Boat
The Perils of an Unnamed Boat Unnamed boats are flirting with potential calamity cast upon them by Neptune. Tim Bower For more than three years I’ve been tempting fate on the water. It’s not that I’m making bad choices. I’m wearing my life jacket. I’m a sober captain. I leave a float plan. But I’m…
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FLIR Ocean Scout Pro
FLIR Ocean Scout Pro The Ocean Scout Pro is easy to handle to scan the waters at night Courtesy Ron Ballanti FLIR has been a pioneer in marine thermal-imaging devices, including handheld scopes/cameras, that can detect the heat signatures of objects such as buoys, boats, breakwaters and other hazards to enhance boating safety at night.…
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McLaren M300 Outboard
McLaren M300 Outboard The M300 offers top-end power for boats 24 feet in length overall and higher. Courtesy Honda Marine Those who follow Can-Am, Formula 1 or IndyCar racing, know the McLaren name. You might even be a fan of McLaren racing team drivers such as Oscar Piastri in F1 or Pato O’Ward in IndyCar.…
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How to Replace an Outboard Water Pump
How to Replace an Outboard Water Pump An outboard engine’s water pump is driven by the driveshaft. Here the author is shown sliding the water-pump housing into place. John Tiger Salt, sand, and debris take their toll on your outboard’s water-pump impeller, housing, and related parts. Despite many “I’ve never replaced the water pump” stories,…
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The Importance of Old-School Seamanship Skills
The Importance of Old-School Seamanship Skills Knowing how to navigate without relying on technology can make you a safer boater. Andrei Armiagov/Adobe Stock During a recent on-water technology test, I pressed a button, sat back and let the boat dock itself. The boat in question not only had automatic-docking technology with joystick controls, it had…
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Choosing the Right Octane for Your Boat’s Engine
Choosing the Right Octane for Your Boat’s Engine The higher the fuel’s octane rating, the less likely it is to prematurely ignite and cause engine knocking. phive2015/Adobe Stock We see the numbers every day at the local gas station, with gas sold based on octane ratings. Most people go to the lower number—usually 87—because it’s…
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On Board With: David Williams
On Board With: David Williams David Williams has had a lifelong love for boat racing. Courtesy Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum The need for speed captured David Williams at a young age, compelling him to buy and start racing his first hydroplane at 19 years old. After years of racing, he started working with the Hydroplane…
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Boat Test: 2026 Pathfinder 2300 HPS
Boat Test: 2026 Pathfinder 2300 HPS HPS stands for High Performance Step, a hull design that improves fuel economy and performance and “built-in” running angle. Courtesy Pathfinder Boats Visit Pathfinder Build Your Pathfinder Find a Pathfinder Dealer The helm of Pathfinder’s 2300 HPS is compact to maximize fishing space aboard, but there’s enough room for…
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Boat Test: 2026 Bay Rider 269 Bay
Boat Test: 2026 Bay Rider 269 Bay The 269 Bay combines seaworthiness and fishability with family features. Courtesy Bay Rider Boats Visit Bay Rider Build Your Bay Rider Find a Bay Rider Dealer Overview You’re shopping for a boat that gets the job done, offers a high degree of reliability, durability, fishability and comes with…
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Boat Test: 2026 Beneteau Antares 9
Boat Test: 2026 Beneteau Antares 9 The Antares 9 offers a secure and comfortable ride. Courtesy Beneteau America Visit Beneteau Build Your Beneteau Find a Beneteau Dealer Overview If anyone is wondering, “How can my family and I spend a perfect day or weekend on the water?” let me introduce you to the new Beneteau…
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Boat Test: 2026 Everglades 367CX
Boat Test: 2026 Everglades 367CX The 367CX is an ideal platform for diverse marine activities. Courtesy Everglades Boats Visit Everglades Build Your Everglades Find an Everglades Dealer Overview The 367CX is a versatile adventure boat designed for those who seek more than just standard fishing experiences. This meticulously crafted vessel merges premium construction with thoughtful…