Fishing Trips and Fishing Resorts

Unless you happen to own a boat, you may not realize how many different kinds of boat seats are available to boat owners. Boat seats are important, not only for the comfort of your passengers, but also because it would be dangerous for passengers to remain standing while navigating rough waters, or even most harbor and coastline waters.

Boat seats are called by a variety of names, and can be known as fighting or fishing chairs, Captain's boat seats, drop away seats and bucket boat seats. Some seats come in bench designs and others are collapsible. A leaning post is also considered a boat seat, and offers standing passengers something to hang on to when needed.

Boat seats can also be custom designed and manufactured, so it's really up to the boat owner to decide on fabric, colors and styles. Of course, fabrics that will stand up to harsh sunlight and salty water are a must, and your local boat parts manufacturer or supplier will be able to determine which fabrics are suitable for your boat seats and which are not.

Some boat seats are entirely upholstered while others come in a combination of wood and steel, or steel and cushions, and some are hard while others are soft. Boat seats can come with or without armrests, and some are padded, others not. Hundreds of designs are available through most Internet boat suppliers and catalogs.

Some boat seats are specially designed for deep-sea fishing seating, while other types are designed for mere comfort. Foldaway boat seats are popular with captain's who don't have an excess of boat decking, and can be stowed below decks when not in use.

Boat seats are necessary accessories for any boat. When shopping for boat seats, make sure that the materials used to construct the seats are durable and long lasting, and if possible, ask for marine grade vinyl. The stitching used in boat seats is as important as the fabrics used to create them, as salt water, rain and sun damages many threads and will increase wear and thinning.

If possible, ask for Gortex thread to be used when assembling your boat seats and cushions. Seats and cushions can also be designed with medium, firm or extra firm padding foam, so you may even want to use a variety on your boat, especially if you normally have passengers on board.

If wood is going to be used in the construction of your boat seats, and show, make sure it's pressure treated. Likewise, ensure that steel bolts or staples used in the construction of your boat seats are stainless steel to prevent rust and unsightly rusting streaks.

Boat seats are accessories that insure not only the comfort of your passengers, but also serve to add a bit of personality to your boat. Not to be overlooked or ignored, boat seats can be both functional and decorative, and when looking for seating arrangements for your passengers, check out the wide variety of cushions and boat seats available at your local boating supply store.

For more information on boats, try visiting http://www.craftguidance.com - a website that specializes in providing boat related tips, advice and resources to include information on the boat seat

You may have known or gone to a lot of places known for salmon fishing just to pursue your favorite pastime, but have you even tried salon fishing in Maine? Well, you better try it some time, especially if you are looking for another level of salmon fishing adventure. Whether you go for trolling, spin-casting, or fly flying, you are sure to experience a great salmon fishing in Maine at East Grand Lake.

East Grand Lake is 22-mile long that has a lot to offer when it comes to fishing activities as it is famous not only for landlocked salmon, but also lake trout fishing, and smallmouth bass. Some reasons that made salmon fishing in Maine an excellent fishing destination option include low intensity fishing, quality water and structure of East Grand Lake, and the abundance of small fish from which salmon feed. In other words, you are guaranteed the abundant supply of salmon to catch, since they don?t get to starve. As a result, you can catch trophy-sized game salmon any time of the year.

Little that most fishermen know, East Grand Lake provides one of the best salmon fishing in Maine. During the past few years, the lake has produced salmon weighing over eight pounds and most importantly it is possible for you to catch 15 to 30 legal salmon in just a day?s fishing, something that you can?t easily find somewhere else. What could be better than that? That way, you?ll have a whole day of fun and excitement. Do you think you fish 15-30 salmon a day? If your limit is within that range, might as well spend your salmon fishing in Maine.

Take note of the salmon fishing season in Maine which starts in late April and lasts until June in order for you make your plans ahead of time and reserve for a fishing vacation. However, during the summer where the water is warmer, particularly in the months of July and August, salmon tend to go much deeper into the lake as they hate warm waters. Therefore, you have to do something if you want to hook them. The preferred salmon fishing technique during these months is drift fishing, in which you use a lead-core line or downriggers. Also, you can use streamer flies, wobblers and minnows since live smelts are not available in warmer months.

For as long as you can hold on to your cravings for salmon fishing, warmer months will surely measure you patience. So, if you don?t have a long stretch of patience, wait until cooler months come. In September, salmon fishing in Maine is back in action where in you will not be forced to do extra efforts or develop certain fishing techniques just to boat some salmon. Make sure to have your reservation earlier and choose the cooler months so that you?ll have as much good time as possible.

Milos Pesic is an avid fisherman and owner of popular and comprehensive Salmon Fishing information site. For more articles and resources on Salmon Fishing related topics, Salmon Fishing equipment, tips and trips, visit his site at:

=>http://salmon-fishing.need-to-know.net

Know Before You Go

First, do your research. What you want to catch dictates were you want to go and fish. Once you decide where you want to go, find out what charter boats are in the area. Read magazines, get on line and put some time in to find out all you can about your options. When you have a couple of possibilities, call them up, drop them an email, ask them questions, not just ?how much is it?? but ?what is the best time to come? What fish are in season? What type of tackle do you have on board and in what classes? Can the weather stop you going out? Do you fish under IGFA Rules? Is the skipper an IGFA Certified Captain? What about beginners? Can you put me in touch with a couple of previous clients? What types of fishing can you offer?

Try to find out if they are a serious charter boat with good equipment, a good crew and they know what they are doing!

If you can, talk to the skipper before you go out. Tell him/her what you would like to catch, your level of experience and if you would prefer calmer waters or are happy to corkscrew all day if the fish are there.

You are out there to have fun, not sit in a corner looking green and feeling miserable. If you start to feel unwell, tell the crew ! Here in Kadavu, we can always move to calmer waters.

A good charter boat will take your wishes into consideration when deciding how and where to fish.

When You Step Aboard

Listen to the safety briefing. It?s not just done to fulfil Maritime Safety regulations, it will also give you information about that particular boat, where emergency items are stored, where you can sit and where you should not go or sit during cruising for safety reasons.

Be prepared. Talk to the skipper or deckie. Ask questions like ?what do I do when a rod goes off? And how do I do it?? We always establish the experience of our guests and we tell you what to do and show you how to do it. The last thing the deckie or the skipper wants is to lose a fish because of simple confusion on the deck.

I once watched 3 anglers begin, and continue with, a lengthy discussion on who should pick up a screaming rod whilst a nice sailfish of about 100lbs tail walked away from the boat. Despite us backing down, the sail took over 700 yards of 30lb mono and spooled the angler just as he finally reached for the rod.

Don?t fiddle with the equipment, even if you are experienced and understand its operation. Lever Drag Gamefishing reels have their drag settings carefully tested and set to a drag setting appropriate to the type of fishing you are doing and the fish you expect to catch. If you accidentally bump a reel setting ? tell the crew.

The crew should be more than happy to explain the use of any piece of equipment and why it is set as it is.

On a Game boat, everything has a place. The crew may need to get something quickly so be careful not to move things around. Don?t rummage through tackle drawers or pull out equipment and toss it back in a mess. At best, you will annoy the crew (who will have to sort it all out again and at worst, you may get a hook through your hand.

When the deckie takes a leader or gaff in hand, stay well back. Only the angler and the deckie should be at the back of the boat. It you are there too, you are in the way. If you are marlin fishing, this is positively dangerous. Crowding the deckie not only blocks the skipper?s view, it endangers the life of both you and the deckie. You and he could be pulled overboard if a hand or foot gets tangled in the leader. If the deckie is tracing a big marlin and you get in the way ? it?s a tense and potentially dangerous moment. Don?t be offended by the stream of loud four letter words directing you to move back.

You will get your chance to take close up pictures when the fish is tagged and under control.

When a fish comes aboard, stand well back and listen to the deckie?s instructions. They are for his safety as well as yours. Most lures used have 2 or more hooks. One may be in the fish?s mouth, the other may be swinging free ? just waiting to catch you.

A colleague of mine got a 10/0 Stainless Steel hook embedded in his calf when a mahi mahi got loose on the deck. Very painful and that was the end of the days fishing.

A good charter boat will do everything it can to ensure you have an action packed, fun filled day of fishing. It is, after all, in their best interests that you go home and tell all your friends how good the fishing was and what fun you had. If you are out there flogging a dead horse (its rare but it does happen)?.don?t blame the crew?.they will be even more frustrated than you are!

Some Do?s and Don?ts

Do:

• Take a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. You will get a lot of glare reflected off the sea, even on cloudy days.
• Take a camera.
• Wear non marking soft soled shoes.
• Ask if you are fishing under IGFA Rules ? You just might catch a World Record!
• Ask, if you want to come up and see the bridge.
• Eat your catch ? you won?t ever eat a fresher tastier fish than one that you just landed.
• Respect the boat. Don?t trash it. Rubbish makes its way to the bilge and can block bilge pumps.
• Enjoy the whole day?s experience, not just the fishing!

Don?t:

• Brag before you go about how many fish you are going to catch. It?s bound to blank your day.
• Step on board wearing high heels or shoes that may damage or mark the deck.
• Play with fishing equipment settings. (Even if you do know what you are doing)
• Put a rod butt down on a teak deck ? It will damage the teak. All rods go in rod holders.
• Crowd round the deckie with a camera when he is tracing or gaffing a fish. STAY WELL BACK.
• Bring a hand held GPS. If the skipper sees it, you won?t be going to any of his secret hot spots.
• Access the foredeck or engine room. They are out of bounds unless the skipper specifically tells you otherwise.
• Litter. Never throw any type of rubbish (including cigarette butts) overboard. Turtles eat butts and die.
• March up to the bridge, plonk yourself down in the deckie?s seat and put your feet up on the console. Unless you want a swim.

Crew Talk Jargon Explained:

?Fiddler &amp Tweaker?: Somebody who can?t resist playing with reel drag settings or ratchets.

?Nibbler?: Somebody who stares at the outrigger tip when you are trolling 16? marlin lures on bent butt 80s and shouts ?I think we just got a nibble!?

?Plonker”: Somebody who asks if they can bottom fish when you are 7 miles out on the Kadavu Trench in 1,000 fathoms of water. (6,000ft)

(I once had a guy stand up on the transom with the boat cruising at 22kts, wave at one of our resort dive boats following in our wake and decide to dive in. (My deckie Joe managed to grab him before he killed himself) Game boats and large quantities of beer do not mix. If you get drunk aboard one of my vessels, I will consider you a danger to the crew who will have to rescue you when you fall overboard. I will tie you to the game chair and drive home. Just so you know.)

Adrian was born on the island of Cyprus and graduated to his first rod & reel at the age of five. Having fished around the world from the Arabian Gulf to the North sea and English Channel, he finally settled for the tropical waters of the South Pacific around the island of Kadavu, Fiji Islands. Director of Matava Resort Gamefishing, he skippers 'Bite Me', the resort's 31ft DeepVee Gamefishing vessel and thoroughly enjoys exploring the light and heavy tackle fishing around the island and Great Astrolabe Barrier Reef. An IGFA Certified Captain, he advocates tag & release and is a keen supporter of the IGFA and the Billfish Foundation.

Adrian Watt
IGFA Captain
info@matava.com
http://www.Matava.com
http://www.GamefishingFiji.com
http://www.GameFishingFiji.blogspot.com

Alaska is a place rich in history and with many exotic locations. A vacation to Alaska can b a cruise or a flight to this wonderful state. Booking a vacation to Alaska through any travel company or guide requires a certain set of questions that need to be asked to your stay in Alaska worthwhile.

For example, you need to know the best time to travel to Alaska, especially if you are planning a cruise. You also have to familiarize yourself with the various cruise lines that travel to Alaska. They include The Caribbean, The Princess, and The Norwegian etc. You should know what the weather and climatic conditions are in Alaska, and what type of clothing you should bring. If you are cruising to Alaska, see if the ship will allow you to catch a view of the wilderness, the whales and the glaciers.

Make sure that you have all paper work in order such as passports and visas. You'll need special paperwork for activities like fishing, travel insurance, shore excursions, etc.

If your plans are to fly to Alaska, then you will need information on the various places to stay, car rentals, sight seeing tours, etc. There are many elegant accommodations available in Alaska, as well as rustic, quaint cottages and inns. Prices range from high to very reasonable. Again, the type of weather and climatic conditions will determine what kind of clothing you need to carry along.

Alaska is a country consisting of large water bodies, from small rivers to oceans therefore if you plan to go fishing on your vacation, you need to ask about fishing license requirements. You should not forget to enquire about the many activities that Alaska has to offer aside from than fishing and sight seeing. Planning your trip, and know what you want to do and see in Alaska will guarantee a once in a lifetime experience.

Alaska Vacations provides detailed information on Alaska Vacations, Alaska Fishing Vacations, Alaska Vacation Packages, Alaska Paddling Vacations and more. Alaska Vacations is affiliated with Alaska Cruises and Ships.

The deep waters of Lake Tanganyika are rich in big-game fish. The waters of this deep lake are only just beginning to gain the world-wide fame which means these waters are less populated with boats and fishing conditions are absolutely perfect. Lake Tanganyika is the longest lake in the world, and at 1,433 meters is the second deepest in the world. Amazingly the lakes lowest point is 642m below sea level and it holds a volume of water seven times that of Lake Victoria. For divers as well as anglers, this is paradise, with over 350 species of fish, offers some of the finest lake game fishing in Africa. Some of the game fish to be found here include the goliath, tigerfish and Nile Perch.

After a big storm I have seen people body surfing with waves sometimes reaching up to six meters. This is for the enthusiast only - I think - as I have tried to body surf but buoyancy was a problem for me in the fresh water.

Many fishermen come to African lakes looking to land a tigerfish many claims are made by operators in Southern Africa that this fish is found only in Southern Africa countries ? this is untrue as these game fish are also found here in Tanzania. The tigerfish is well-known for its powerful tail and savage teeth and is claimed by some to be the world's most exciting freshwater sport-fish. I think this is mainly because of the drama of the whole experience the jarring strikes, lightning runs and spectacular leaps a typical tigerfish weighs 3-8 pounds, with 10-20 pounds being landed from time to time.

In contrast the shallow waters of Lake Victoria are home to legendary Nile Perch growing up to 300lbs, and even the novice fisherman can be encouraged by casting off a jetty to catch abundant tilapia. Nile Perch of over 80 kg have been caught the main method of fishing in the lake is trolling with lures. Apart from the Nile perch, local tilapia of up to 5kg have been caught on bait. I have seen catfish of over 50kg caught often.

The Guinness Book of World Records lists an incredible 232kg Nile perch caught by local fishermen on Lake Victoria. Another way to fish is from the shore ? there are few un-spoilt places, I am sure, in the world where in fresh or salt water it is possible to land fish in the 20 - 100lb plus category.

Sea fishing in one of the most exciting areas of Tanzania is in an area called Kilwa in southern Tanzania ? close to the Mozambique border - this is a blue water fishing paradise. For those who wish to experience the unbelievable thrill of saltwater fly fishing this is the place to head. Many different species can be teased up to a fly and the rush of playing a big fish on light gear is an unforgettable experience.

Fishing is best in the months of August, September and October. Silver service fly-camps are set up on an evening along the coastline and trips include all fishing, full-board accommodation, beer, table wine, soft drinks, and transfers to and from Dar-es-Salaam to Kilwa.

The site http://www.tanzania-info.co.uk has contacts of tour operators and lodges that organize fishing trips and http://www.betheladventure.co.uk has safari information. Use responsible tourism to make a difference.

Ever thought about building your own boat but have been frightened off by the thought that you may not have the time , the ability or money? The odds are that you are terrified of the dreaded process of lofting out the plans from the complicated pile of papers and drawings that you normally get when you buy a set of boat plans!Have you heard about the Eazy-build method of boatbuilding? It is a series of innovative small craft that have been named 'The Dolphin Series'. They are cheap, robust, simple to build, with minimal plans that importantly, do not involve lofting and have no frames at all! They are simply constructed with the 'stitch and glue' methods. The design materials are NZ/Australian standard exterior ply, epoxy resin, glass tape and bi-axial glass cloth that ranges in weight from 200 gms to 600 gms, all materials are easily available everywhere in Australia and worldwide.For the uninitiated, the stitch and glue methnod is a method of boatbuilding that allows a boatbuilder to build a boat very quickly at minimal expense. Boats up to forty feet long have been built using this method and are in use worldwide today.

The specs range from 12' dinghy, the 16' gaff sailing boat, the centre console 16' for keen anglers. They then progressed progressed to the 19' sailing yawl and that has two masts and is a camping/day/weekender that is easily trailerable.

The plans, involve a simple X/Y co-ordinate system that does away with the painful process of lofting… a nightmare for first timers and a pain generally for all concerned. The sheets of ply are drawn up into suitable size squares, the co-ordinates supplied with the plan copied to the squares and then the points joined together with a bendy batten.

This patented method is almost a 'join the dots' method of cutting out the shapes required from plywood that have been pre-glassed and faired whilst lying flat in the garage or workshop.

The United Nations, interestingly, during the crisis in East Timor, chose the design to be taken for the Timorese Fishermen to use as a blueprint for their new generation of fishing boats that their villages are supplied with. . A typical 16' Dolphin can be assembled, stitched and glued and finished in approximately 40 hours work, a matter of 3 or 4 weekends. A 16' Dolphin is cut out in a weekend. The fastest time we know of for a 12' Dolphin build was in 24 hours by a team of lads from the Wooden Boat Club at a Brisbane 'Down by the River' expo some years ago, and it was presented to a lucky draw winner who actually rowed it up the river on Sunday!

The latest in the range , is a larger boat at some twenty five feet and is the first ever 'stitch and glue' power boat. It is well under construction in North Queensland and is expected to be completed in a month or two. During the next few months the website will publish progress on the D 25 as it is completed. An interesting aspect of it is that it has been adapted it for completion as either a really large motorised fishing boat (as is the prototype) but it will be equally at home as a yacht!

Technical Discussion on the D 25'When, many years ago, the original Dolphin 12' was drawn up to plans the designer did wonder just how large a boat could be manufactured by this method.He thought there was no real limit, and reasoned it's just that the logistics get more involved. There is no doubt that the production and quality of ply wood has undertaken a quantum leap for the better and many well respected designers are now very happy to turn the clocks back and re-design and build boats from the new generation plywoods that boast new hi-tech glue lines and quality. you'll be on the right track if you use plywood to ANZ/Australian standard 2270

These new plywoods in conjunction with the incredible adhesive qualities of epoxy and the monster strengths of the new glasses, carbons and aramids now allow inexperienced boatbuilders that were formally hesitant to build, to enjoy the immense pleasures of creating and self satisfaction of building their own boats. . The reasons are diverse. Self satisfaction, confidence building, financial. Don't forget, a new 25-30 foot yacht today runs as close as dammit to two and a half grand per foot…. The financial incentives are high, certainly but nothing beats the feeling of launching a boat that is equally at home 40 miles out on the reef or sitting quietly in the creek.The designer realised that easily, manageable, attainable stages would be paramount. Nothing must be complicated. and achieved a frameless boat in spite of its size. (although it must be said the 25' D25 has one or two support frames in the rear section)

It cannot be emphasised too much how a framed boat complicates the process of boatbuilding. They take up much more time, effort, skill and weight and after months of work you still only have a frame. It is enough to seriously deter many would be builders and you cant blame them. The secret of all the Dolphin's strength is epoxy composite resins and glass and the strength of the bulkheads and the longitudinals that stiffen the boat from end to end. The designer's own yacht 'The Nicky J Miller' is a frameless boat and she is forty two feet long and weighs about seven tons. She performs well in three to four metre seas and 35 knots plus very well.. she is a a strip planker but withhindsight been able to turn back the clock she would have been constructed her from epoxy glass and plywood. The build time would have halved.

More considerations for builders

Eight years as a marine surveyor with the Small Ships Surveyors Association has given the designer of the Dolphins a unique chance to peek into pretty well most of the major makes of today's yachts, workboats and so on. Many of them are clone like and cramped, a result of trying to squeeze a quart into a pint pot, trying for too much in one boat. A good example of a few lessons learnt is the designer's yacht 'The Nicky J', almost everyone visiting without exception, is impressed at the size of the galley. it is almost 30 per cent of the bow area and it?s where usually a toilet, sink or shower and two bunks plus storage goes. living onboard, almost without exception the two forward bunks in a boat are normally used for storage of everything that moves! The 'forward bunks' instead are found in the main cabin where the lounges slide sideways into a huge sleeping area for guests. It's nicknamed 'The Pacific Playpen'. There's still the rear cabin so it can still sleep 4 to 6! You can see how the development process can be manipulated at an early stage. Thus it was with the D25, having had the luxury of being able to choose front cabin size right from the start. Plenty of space, full standing headroom in the cabin, double bunks, cooking area, storage, walk in toilet, with a full 10 feet long forward cabin. This works equally for the yacht version and the fishing boat. Visitors to the site will see photos of the build to date.

The cabin has a full height bulkhead that divides the forward section from the rest of the boat in both versions. However, with the yacht version there is heaps of space for yet another cabin extension that combines the steering area if desired. The fishing version has a small cabin/windshield area that supports a full length sun cover and then gives a full open area at the rear for fishing space. The floors in both versions incorporate fully sealed flotation area that the cabin sole (floorboards) are supported on. The important part here was to have no unsealed or unprotected areas of timber to rot away under the floors.

The fishing version will also have an external pod to mount an outboard or two and this allows heaps of extra room and an unrestricted area in which to fish.

On the D25, the unprecedented step of joining the sides of the boat in one piece was taken ( 3 pieces of 8 x 4 ply) together in on one 24' length and glassing and fairing each side as it was lying supported on the 'building strongback'.

The 'strongback' for this boat is constructed in two separate sections, one 12' long, the second, 8' long, both 6' wide. The idea of the strongbacks, constructed from cheap studding is to provide a support bench on which the components of the boat is constructed. Having 2 sections means that they can be easily moved around to support work both together or if you like, separately. The strongback is an integral part of Dolphin construction methodology.

Admittedly, having one 24' length side is tricky to handle on your own but it was possibleto be moved around by one but help would be appreciated here! There will be a separate timber frame shown in the plans so that the 25 long sides can be ?hung up? next to the boat for easy working. The luxury of having the sides face up allows gravity assisted glassing and fairing. In fact, it takes only one day to scarph and glue one whole side, one day to glass, one day to apply fairing and one morning to fair! 'The Nicky J' took over 3 months…

When designing the D25 it was always taken for granted that this boat can be built single handed if needs be. Therefore careful planning about single handed operations were a primary consideration. For example, moving the completed floor section is a doddle with a handybilly, or even a couple of pulleys attached to the rear of the car and the assembly rolls on pieces of PVC pipe. It's estimated that the D25 will require 22 pieces of 1220 x 2440 (8 x 4) six mill plywood and a total list of materials for the basic hull, cabin. Floors, sides, deck including bulkheads and bunks will come to around $5000. That includes epoxy, glass glue and all fairing materials. You can begin to see what is meant about the financial bit, it makes sense. The good part about materials is you can buy 'em as you build. As for tools, the most you need is a planer, drill, a bench saw would be nice, a jigsaw, a skilsaw and a hand saw…not much else. There's not a nail or screw yet in the completed hull and with luck there won't be either at the finish.

How long to build a d25?Aha, the million dollar question. So far, it has taken 2 months to complete the hull…it looks like a boat already. A further 8 weeks will see hull, cabin, floors, roof and new pod done. That's sixteen weeks at about 20 hours per week single handed. ten days lost to real bad rain and humidity, but that's normal. single handed, twenty hours per week, about six months. Full time, half that. More men (or women) helping, who knows? But, as usual, Dolphins are quick to build. However, whichever way you look at it, a 25' brand new boat in under six months has to be a fast track method to owning a serious boat.

Plans as usual, will be available, when they are completely finalised in every detail. There will be a one off special licence issued for each set of plans. Cost? Not sure at present, but about AUD $250.00 but there will definitely be an introductory limited offer. You can see the progress build of the D25 by visiting the site .

Please remember, any questions regarding the boat can be addressed to the website.

Additional info. Stitch and glue method is a build method that uses sheets of good quality ply (though not necessarily marine grade) that is stitched together using nylon electrical ties to hold the boat components together whilst they are glued, filleted and glassed.

Glassing and fairing hull sides and floor saves much waste of epoxy fairing material, difficult labour and countless hours of time. The epoxy fairing mixture will not crack when bent into shape.

Terry Buddell is a freelance journalist and a Marine surveyor, boat designer and shipwright,He lives on board his yacht “The Nicky J Miller' that he built himself in The Gold Coast Australia andhas sailed his yacht up the East Coast to the beautiful Whitsunday Islands. He is currently resident in Gladstone Queensland where he is building another boat for his collection! Terry can be contacted on arcus1@bigpond.com or http://www.dolphinboatplans.com

Is it possible to satisfy your passion for fishing and at the same time feel relaxed with beautiful panoramic scenery? Oh, did I make you stare at your ceiling or scratch your chin? Of course, it?s possible! You don?t have to occupy your eyes with waters? and a lot of waters, rocks and little trees only. You deserve more than that for any fishing trip, unless, of course, if you are into fishing competition. You can have the chance to enjoy fishing and enjoy stunning landscapes as well. Did I hear you say where? Well, Salmon fishing in Ireland will answer all that!

If you are looking for top quality salmon fishing with a very impressive surrounding, Delphi, Ireland is where you have to go. Salmon fishing in Ireland takes you to Delphi where fun and excitement of fishing and relaxation are in one package. Delphi offers fishermen a wide selection of salmon fishing on an incredible river and on some wonderful lakes. You can also take the whole family with you on this fishing trip to have fun with fishing activity or enjoy the place, or both.

When it comes to accommodation, there?s an extraordinary lodge, which is well known for its impressive setting, great sumptuous food, wide variety of wine, lovely rooms, and relaxing atmosphere anyone can be pleased about. Or if you prefer, there are also five attractive rental cottages on Delphi estate that you can check out, especially for those independent travelers. Comfort while you travel is as important as your fascination for fishing, which is why salmon fishing in Ireland are made that way with the intention that everyone gets the fun during the entire stay.

Crystal clear rivers and lakes are perfect to spend your day salmon fishing in Ireland, Delphi in particular. The two salmon lakes, Finlough and Doolough, both can be swarming with salmon any time in salmon fishing season. Some salmon fishing can also be done in Glencullin Lough and Townyard Lough. The season of salmon fishing in Ireland can last from early February to September. You can actually fish anytime during the entire season. So, if you want to get your share of catch, make sure to plan your fishing trip anytime within those months.

For a total exciting salmon fishing in Ireland, you can spend your trip to Delphi and you can stay for a week or more, time enough to get the most of what the place has to offer. Most of the visitors of Delphi with the agenda same as yours, normally take a week long vacation and avail all-inclusive packages. Shorter stay can be possible, but they always prioritize those who want to stay for a week or so.

Milos Pesic is an avid fisherman and owner of popular and comprehensive Salmon Fishing information site. For more articles and resources on Salmon Fishing related topics, Salmon Fishing equipment, tips and trips, visit his site at:

=>http://salmon-fishing.need-to-know.net

To me fishing isn't only about catching fish. I catch a lot of trout, many of them quite large, but the catching is really part of the sideshow. To me, fishing is as much about being out in nature as it is about catching the fish. I'll hike for miles, up or downstream, basking in the glory of nature, until I find a nice stretch of river to fish. I think Aristotle said it best when he said, “In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous.”

The point is, that in many instances fishing involves a lot of walking and or hiking. This being the case, staying hydrated is very important, especially in the heat of the summer, when your body is losing moisture due to sweating. I used to carry two or three bottles of water with me in my fishing vest, which worked, but was quite bulky and uncomfortable. Then a Snowboarding friend of mine gave me an idea??a Camelbak.

If you've never heard of a Camelback, it's a water carrier that fits on your body like a small backpack. The think is, it's much less bulky that a backpack, and not at all heavy. A Camelback fits under you fishing vest perfectly. You don't even notice it's there, then when you need a drink, the nozzle is right there for you to getr your water. The are beautiful pieces of equipment, which cyclists have known about for years. A Camelback is the perfect way to keep hydrated while fishing.

With the help of a Camelbak, it is no longer necessary to carry bulky bottles of water with you while fishing. Using a Camelback also eliminates the need to clean your fishing vest of empty water bottles before every trip. I personally hate that, and always end up lugging around an extra empty water bottle. Using a Camelbak also eliminates any chance of an empty water bottle being left along you favorite river or lake. If you're looking for the best way ever devised to stay hydrated while fishing, take a look at what a Camelbak has to offer you.

Trevor Kugler - Co-founder of JRWfishing.comTrevor has more than 15 years of business experience and 25 years of fishing experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country - Montana.

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Alaskans eat a lot of ice cream. Several associations that keep track of that sort of thing have put their signature on that fact. Records show that Alaskans consume more ice cream than any other state in the U.S. The records also reveal that the average American eats roughly 4 gallons of ice cream a year and that Alaskans eat a bit more than the average. That could add up to a lot of ice cream. It's rumored that Alaska's record may even include the rest of the world but there's no evidence of that anywhere just yet.

Now don't think that Alaskans will eat just any ice cream. Alaskans eat ice cream all year long, never tiring of it and are more than willing to pay for the good stuff. They are quite a picky folk. About 15 years ago a well-known American ice cream chain went out of business in Fairbanks, Alaska. Somebody didn't figure on a small Alaskan town (small back then) being so particular about their ice cream. They must've thought that Alaskans were desperate for whatever they could get. Surely a 'Name' brand would guarantee them some good business there in that 50 - 70 below 0 in the winter part of the world. They sure could've used an Alaskan Business Tour Guide. They would have been informed that a name alone means nothing to Alaskans. They expect quality to the equivalent they expect it with all of their goods and services.

Alaskans and those who later in life have chosen to live there, on the whole are a rough and tough bunch because much of Alaska is rough and tough living. As a balance to all of it's pristine beauty and majesty, there are hardships to living in 'the Last Frontier that one can't imagine unless one lives there for a while at least a good couple of harsh winters and a summer. In many areas of Alaska, folks have to create their own comforts. Hard work is an understatement most of the time and very few comforts are free. In short, Alaskans work hard and expect top notch for their dollars. It's quality or they go somewhere else without apology.

Another growing American ice cream chain opened up for the first time in Alaska several years ago. They too were banking on Alaska's passion for good ice cream. This husband and wife team had an edge though. The wife was born and raised in Alaska. She knew what Alaskans liked. While visiting in what Alaskans call the lower 48, they absolutely went nuts over the ice cream they bought at a new premium ice cream and yogurt store. It wasn't a franchise yet but they believed that it would work in Alaska. They also knew they couldn't take any shortcuts if they wanted to succeed. So after doing the research, they had to convince the company that they weren't crazy, that Alaskans really did love ice cream. Not until they showed them the statistical data on Alaska's ice cream consumption did they begin to take the couple seriously about franchising the company. It took about five years but they opened their first store in Anchorage. It was hard work, but their hunch paid off better than expected and has expanded to the Kenai Peninsula just a couple of months ago.

The difference? The ice cream was plain good quality ice cream with no short cuts. Another not so surprising detail about this new ice cream chain is its insanely high prices that by the way, so far, Alaskans have been willing to pay. Hey, if Alaskans love it, it must be good.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Alaska

Lake Eufaula is a 45,181-acre reservoir located on the Chattahoochee River along the border of Alabama and Georgia. This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir stretches from Phoenix City, Alabama, to the Walter F. George Dam at Ft. Gaines, Georgia.

Officially named Walter F. George Lake after a Georgia U.S. Senator, it has been called the “Bass Fishing Capital of the World.” Lake Eufaula was completed in 1963, to provide electric power and aid in navigation on the Chattahoochee River and runs along the border of Alabama and Georgia.

Numerous public access areas, marinas, campgrounds, and parks are available to facilitate boating, fishing, picnics, and other outdoor activities. A fishing license is required if you are between 16 and 65 years of age if you are fishing with artificial bait and rod and reel.

If you like to fish in structure, meaning humps, flats and channels, this is your lake. Upstream there are numerous feeder creeks and major tributaries feeding this lake in addition to the Chattahoochee River itself. A good way to start out if you are not familiar with this large lake is to stay in the channel while you are running on the pad since it can be very dangerous for inexperienced boaters to navigate.

Anytime you see a lake like Lake Eufaula, with such world renowned recognition for big bass, you can expect it to get pounded regularly by hopeful bass anglers from all over. At times (like during the spring season), there can be as many as a dozen or more bass tournaments on this lake on any given Saturday or Sunday. So try to hit it during mid-week to avoid some of the traffic and have a chance at the big one!

There is recent surge of two types of aquatic weeds growing throughout Lake Eufaula. Eurasian milfoil and Hydrilla are spreading throughout the lakes mid to lower portion every year. These weeds can grow during the winter season and in deep water. The good side is that anglers like it, bass like it and the small fish and crayfish the bass dine on like it. Milfoil and hydrilla weeds also hold bass during the middle portion of the day, making them easier to locate.

Give Lake Eufaula a try this year, you will like the results!

Ed is an avid bass fisherman from Birmingham, Alabama and operates a popular website devoted to bass fishing in Alabama. Visit him at http://www.bamabassfishing.com for more tips and techniques on bass fishing.