By Monahan’s Marine
Recreational anglers have borne the brunt of Government regulation the last few years. Smaller limits, shorter seasons, excise taxes, slip fees, licensing, even talk of restricted zones have all worn down a lot of us to the point that we just don’t go. I have been involved with Monahan’s Marine and the boating business for almost 30 years. I have seen many old timers come in with stories of boat loads of fish and good times on the water only to end the conversation with “Those Days are Gone.”
Time on the water with family and friends should not be measured by the size or amount of fish we catch. I think if we could look at it as a mini vacation some “down time” if only an afternoon of no world news, politics, or work.
At the recent New England Boat Show we had two storms and the Mayor told people to stay home. In our showroom I had people coming in saying “I just need to get my mind off all this snow!” They daydream about the spring and summer to come. The reason they head out maybe to catch a nice striper or a few blue fish, but for many of them if they come home with an empty cooler it was still a good day. They may see a Whale, explore the Harbor Islands, meet friends at the Spit or go have lunch at a nearby Marina. The freedom of the water means a lot.
So, when your considering selling that boat for whatever the reason you might want to imagine yourself without a boat. Without a way to get some “down time,” maybe the boat you have has gotten to big. Maybe going to a center console instead of a cruiser or a dual console for more seating instead of just fishing might make more sense. Even kayaking will get you out there. Don’t give up, just get on the water.
FORECAST BY: Monahan’s Marine, a family-owned operation, has served anglers in Weymouth, Mass. since 1961. Just fifteen minutes south of Boston, our two-story shop stocks all your marine and fishing needs, from kayaks and inflatables to tackle and reels— and much more! Check out our current catalog at monahansmarine.com