Southern Sportsmen: Boating
Basic Boat Types Something for everyone!
Posted on September 29, 2008
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Boating is one of the most exciting outdoor sports around. Boating enthusiasts enjoy boats for fishing, skiing, and just pleasure riding. There are several basic types of boats available, and while some have specific uses, others are flexible. When purchasing a boat, it is important to know what you are looking for. Most boat dealers carry several different types and styles, and sometimes a boat rental can let you try a specific style out for a day.
Small, Man-Powered Craft-
This category includes almost anything that can be rowed. Dinghies, jon boats, and other aluminum boats, kayaks, canoes, pirogues, and anything else that is moved by a pole or oars all fit into this category. Kayaks and canoes are often used for recreational boating and rowing, while the others are used for fishing, hunting, and relaxation. Small motors can be added to the jon boat and rowboat category, of course. These boats are typically light weight, hold one or two people, and can easily be brought on shore.
Sailboats-
Sailboats come in several types, and various sail versions. The hull is generally made from one of two main types: Keel boats, or catamarans. Keel boats have a ‘keel’, which is similar to a weighted fin pointing upside down from the bottom of the boat. The keel prevents the boat from sliding to the side when moving under sail power, and also acts as a counter weight against the wind to prevent the boat from turning over.
Catamarans are constructed from two hulls, which ride higher on the water than a keel boat. The hulls are generally much wider than a keel boat and the decreased drag and lighter weight allows catamarans to sail much faster. There are other types of sail boats, including yawls, sail cats, and more.
Pontoon boats-
Pontoon boats are a simple, lightweight vessels that work well for family pleasure cruising. Sometimes pontoon boats are the basis for houseboats as well. Pontoons are hollow cylinders. Two of these generally are connected by a frame and a raft style boat deck is built across them. These boats have very low draft, and are generally reasonably priced.
Power boats-
There are several popular types of power boats available. Bass boats, for instance are built especially for fishing, and have a sleek build. Ski boats are designed for recreational usage, and are made to pull skiers and fish, and are especially suited to family usage. Other types of power boats include the larger cruising vessels, walkabouts, performance boats, and bow riders. Some powerboats are available with inboard motors, while most have outboards.
Another popular type of sport fishing power boat is the center console boat. These boats, which also come in flats boats, are ideal for recreational fishing in saltwater flats and near shore saltwater. Larger center consoles can take the special roughness that comes from salt water and persistent wave action of the ocean.
Specialty boats-
There are also many types of specialty boats. These include houseboats, which are like a floating cabin; air boats, which can actually drive over grass and have almost no water displacement (but they are very loud!); trawlers, which have large water displacement; and yachts.
Seeking Paid Writers
Posted on March 6, 2007
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This fishing, hunting and archery weblog is seeking paid contributors for its website, blog and newsletter. We’re looking for seasoned journalists active in hunting, fishing or archery and who wish to share their experiences with others. We’re looking for 500- to 750-word submissions as well as shorter blog entries and videos. Send resume, writing samples, clips, blog info, etc to SouthernSportsmen.com
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