Come on down to the Bass Pro Shops Katy, Texas to check out our incrediable selection of Tracker Boats.  Great boats with built in value

Share the fun of multi-species fishing and catch more than your share of crappie, bass and even walleye!

You love sharing the variety and challenge of catching all types of fish. Where they hide, what they’ll bite on and how to reel ’em in.

The Pro Team™ 175 TF aluminum fishing boat is ready to help!

Its lower bow deck with two seat locations, two cockpit-level fishing positions and an elevated aft deck give you more places to fish than a traditional bass boat. You’ll love the convenience of dual livewells and baitwells, tackle trays, bow accessory trays and drink holders—as well as the smooth, dry-riding Revolution™ hull.

It comes totally outfitted with a Mercury® outboard, 12-volt trolling motor, Lowrance® fishfinder and a factory-matched TRACKER® trailer.

 

Not too long ago kayaking the coastal bays, marshes and backwater estuaries was something a select few anglers had tapped into. That was then, this is now.

It isn’t that way anymore. Kayak fishing is the rage along the Texas Gulf Coast, and it's rapidly spreading to other states, as well.

Kayaking for reds and trout has really taken a firm grip on the middle and lower Texas coast. It's especially popular among fly fishermen.

The draw is this: With a kayak you don't have to hassle with a boat, motor and trailer. Simply drop it in the water and go. That's it. But the option of loading your kayak into a big rig and covering lots of water is another tactic that's definitely worth checking out.

There are endless areas of the coast that are kayak friendly. On most you can simply drive up, drop your kayak into the water and paddle away. That's about as simple as fishing gets.

Another great kayaking adventure can be found at Port O'Connor, on the middle Texas Coast. This is where you can load your kayak onto the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's ferry for a shuttle across the bay to Matagorda Island State Park, about 11 miles from the small fishing town.

This island offers well over 20 miles of vodka clear flats on the bay, and also on Pringle Lake. You also have access to Pass Cavallo and the surf. This is an area where you can catch anything from tailing reds to 100-pound plus tarpon.

By now you're probably getting a feel for the type of adventure you can paddle into with a Kayak.

Selecting a kayak for your adventures is easy. However, like vehicles and power boats, you will find that there are all sorts of Kayaks to choose from.

First of all, 99.9 percent of kayaking on the coast is done from sit-on-top models, as opposed to sit-inside yaks. These are wet boats, meaning the seat might take on an inch or so of water. The sit-inside models are dry. But the trade off is that sit-on-top kayaks offer easy on and off access.

You can visit the Bass Pro Shops in Katy Texas  to see all the different models and all the accessories. It is amazing how fast the selection has grown.

The most surprising thing about kayak angling is the ease of paddling from one location to another. It's not only good exercise, but great stress relief.

There is nothing better than paddling to an isolated flat and wading into trout and reds.

I'm not a big fan of fishing while seated in a kayak. My idea of fun is paddling to an area and then wading. But at times the only option is to stay in the kayak, especially when you are fishing over soft mud and shell or deep water.

 

Attention fishermen, hunters and all outdoor enthusiasts.   If you are in need of a great pair of sunglasses come on in to Bass Pro Shops.  We carry a great selection of sunglasses to cover all of your needs.  We have glasses from Costa Del Mar, Oakley, Maui Jim and Wiley X.  For those of you that wear prescription glasses we have Cocoons that fit over your glasses for that additional protection from the sun.  We also carry glasses that some of the famous Bass Pro Anglers, including Jimmy Houston and Bill Dance.  Look in our store for our sunglass racks you will find glasses on them from Bass Masters, Columbia and Polorvision.  For those of you that need a little help seeing the fine line when tying knots or just out on the boat with a good book we also carry polarized bi-focals.   In addition to many more sunglasses Bass Pro Shops also carries accessories to go with your sunglasses to keep them protected and safe when they are not being used.

 

Now that I have told you what we carry. let me tell you about some of the benefits.  Using polarized sunglasses helps to cut the glare when you are out on that beautiful lake catching fish, looking up in the sky to get those birds, across the field watching the deer come in makes the experience that much better when you don’t have the sun getting in your eyes.  It also protects your eyes from harmful rays from the sun.  My husband has owned a pair of polarizes glasses for years and will not go out fishing without them, they help him see into the water and keeps the glare off the water if he is using a bobber to fish so he doesn’t miss a hit on the line.

So if you are in need of a new pair or just want to see what we have stop on bye our Gurnee store.  If you have any question, please just ask any of our associates and they will be more than willing to give you a hand in selecting a pair that is just right for you.

Hope to see ya soon!!!!!!!!!!!

by Terri Angelos

                                 Do you have the correct Marine battery for your boat?

 

General Battery Types

Batteries are separated in two ways, by purpose and production. The foremost uses are automotive, marine, and deep-cycle. The deep-cycle will include a solar electric (PV), backup power, traction, and this is also seen in recreational vehicle use and boat "house" batteries. The major construction types are flooded (wet), gelled, and AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat). The AGM batteries are also referred to as "a starving electrolyte" or "dry as a bone", for the reason that the fiberglass mat is only 95% saturated with Sulfuric acid and there is no surplus fluid at that point.   

Starting Batteries

When we think of starting batteries are normally used to start and run engines. Engine starters require a very large amount of starting current for a very short moment in time. Starting batteries have a huge quantity of thin plates for the highest surface area. The plates are collected of a Lead "sponge", comparable in appearance to a very fine foam sponge. This gives a very large surface area, but if deep cycled, this sponge will quickly be consumed and decrease to the bottom of the cells. An automotive battery will usually stop working after 30-150 deep cycles if it is deep cycled. However, they may last for thousands of cycles in normal starting use in a 2% to 5% discharge.

Deep-Cycle Batteries

Deep cycle batteries are designed to be discharged down as much as 80% time after time, and have much thicker plates. The most important difference between a true deep cycle battery and others is that the plates are solid lead plates and not sponge. This gives less surface area, thus less "immediate" power like starting batteries need. Although these can be cycled down to 15% charge, the best duration vs expenditure method is to keep the average cycle at about 60% discharge.

 

 

Marine batteries are usually a "hybrid", and descend between the starting and deep-cycle batteries. In the hybrid, the plates may be composed of lead sponge, but it is coarser and heavier than that used in starting batteries. It is often hard to tell what you are getting in a "marine" battery, but most are a hybrid. Starting batteries are usually rated at "CCA", or cold cranking amps, or "MCA", Marine cranking amps - the same as "CA". Any battery with the capability shown in CA or MCA may or may not be a true deep-cycle battery. It is sometimes hard to tell, as the term deep cycle is often overused - we have even seen the term "deep cycle" used in automotive starting battery advertising. CA and MCA ratings are at 32 degrees F, while CCA is at zero degree F. Sorry to say, the only positive way to tell with some batteries is to buy one and cut it open. Thus, this is not much of an option for you.

Remember there are three charging stages. Are you properly charging your battery?

 

Bulk charge is the first stage. Current will be sent to the batteries at the maximum safe rate. They will accept until voltage rises to near a full charge level. Voltages at this stage on average range from 10.5 volts to 15 volts. There is no "exact" voltage for bulk charging. There may be limits on the maximum current that the battery and wiring can take depending on the accessories that have been rigged.

Absorption charge is the second stage. Voltage remains constant and current little by little tapers off as internal resistance increases for the duration of the charging. It is during this phase that the charger puts out maximum voltage. Voltages during this phase are typically around 14.2 to 15.5 volts. The internal resistance increasingly goes up because there will less to be changed back to normal full charge.

Float charge is number three. After batteries reach full charge, charging voltage is reduced to a lower level (typically 12.8 to 13.2) to reduce gassing and prolong battery life. This is often referred to as a maintenance or trickle charge, since its main purpose is to keep an already charged battery from discharging. PWM, or "pulse width modulation" accomplishes the same thing. In PWM, the controller or charger senses petite voltage drops in the battery and sends very short charging cycles (pulses) to the battery. This may occur several hundred times per minute. It is called "pulse width" because the width of the pulses may vary from a few microseconds to several seconds. It is important to note that for long period float service, such as backup power systems that are seldom discharged; the float voltage should be around 13.02 to 13.20 volts.

Should you have any questions stop by the Tracker Service Department at the Bass Pro Shops in Myrtle Beach and ask for me.

Paul

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When I came into the Marine Accessories Department several years ago at Bass Pro, Humminbird had just released Side Imaging.  It was truly  a success.  Several years later they introduced Down Imaging.   Again, this put Humminbird  as a  leader in Sonar technology.  Now they are introducing 360 Imaging™.  This new system allows  a 360 degree view surrounding the entire boat. 

Humminbird’s parent company (which is a private held company), Johnson Outdoors (you know  the wax people) has very “Deep Pockets”, therefore, is spending a fortune to keep Humminbird  on top.  Of course, Johnson Outdoors is reaping the rewards for having such a successful company in its fold.

The new unit will be compatible with many of its existing displays. You will be able to mark waypoints anywhere in the 300’ circle.  In the circle you will be able to zoom, set  waypoint alarms, and record video and photo screen captures.

The new unit carries a pretty hefty price tag.  Of course you still have to have a display etc.  The Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is $1,999.99.  It will be available this summer.  Please stand in line.  First come is first served.  We take cash, check or credit card.

 

 

 

 

360 Imaging™ has you surrounded.

Want to get the most of 360 Imaging™ and its unprecedented coverage area? You're in the right place. Humminbird has broken down a screenshot to help you make sense of this revolutionary technology.

 

Four beam speeds

For greater on-water flexibility, 360 Imaging™ lets you choose from four beam speed settings. Lower beam speeds lead to higher image quality but lower refresh rates. Conversely, higher beam speeds result in lower image quality but higher refresh rates. With four options, you can find the ideal setting for your boat speed, water conditions and need for detail.

 

 

 

 

 

Understanding the beam

Visualize 360 Imaging™ as a thin sonar wall extending 150 feet to either side your boat. This wall rotates to create a 300-foot circle—updated in real time-—that enables you to see areas virtually impossible to reach with other types of sonar. And, because the sonar wall moves, you don’t have to.

 

 

 

 

 

Submerged bridge

This screenshot reveals a reservoir with bridge ruins (left of the boat location) and what was once a river channel. The white streaks to the direct left of the bridge and on the far right indicate fish. Shaded areas represent the channel's descending terrain, while lighter areas are rising terrain.

 

 

 

 

Train tracks

Here you can clearly see the ties of a submerged railroad track. After identifying a productive structure with 360 Imaging, you can orient your boat to fish alongside it.

 

 

 

Now that you can look forward, there's no looking back.

For the first time ever, you can see up to 150 feet in front of your boat, either in full 360 mode or by isolating your sweep area. With valuable intelligence on fish-holding structure and cover waiting up ahead, you can cast to productive areas without spooking the fish.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mark a waypoint

Mark interesting returns with a waypoint directly on your 360 Imaging™ screen. The exact location will be stored in your unit’s memory and is viewable on GPS Cartography.

 

 

 

 

 

Sweep areas

New 360 Imaging™ allows you to isolate your sweep area over a section of water from 10˚ to 360˚. You can lock in your beam anywhere—but the area in front of your boat is especially useful. Because your transducer has less ground to cover, you'll also benefit from a faster refresh rate. 

 

 

 

 

 

Customize your display

Choose from eight color palettes for more flexibility. Based on water conditions, adjust sensitivity for the best returns. Even adjust sharpness to enhance edges and detail depending on lighting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Switchfire/360 view

View 360 Imaging™ side-by-side with SwitchFire™ or GPS cartography. SwitchFire lets you see what’s going on below your boat while GPS puts valuable waypoints, routes and other navigational information at your fingertips.

 

 

 

 

 

Drop in without causing a stir

At your command, the ultra-quiet 360 Imaging™ Transducer Deployment System drops below your boat’s hull and prop for an unobstructed, 360˚ view. The system operates silently—escaping the notice of nearby fish.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two deployment options

When the timing’s right, you can deploy 360 Imaging™ using your Humminbird unit or the control buttons found on the Transducer Deployment System. Easily manage the depth to which the Transducer Pod deploys to avoid grounding in shallow water.

 

 

 

 

Transducer deployment system

The Transducer Deployment System is the hardware behind the remarkable images of Humminbird 360 Imaging. This ruggedly constructed add-on works with any Ethernet-ready, Side Imaging-equipped Humminbird model.

 

 

Fish smarter with a fully loaded Humminbird

To get the detail and unprecedented coverage of Humminbird 360 Imaging, you'll need an Ethernet-ready, Side Imaging-equipped Humminbird fishfinder. Compatible models include:
 

1198c SI Combo      |      998c SI Combo     |      898c SI Combo    |      798ci HD SI Combo

 

Capt. Cary J. O'Brien

Marine Associate

Bass Pro Shops-Olathe, KS
 

 In case you did not know, we have a full line Tracker Service and Repair facility inside our Bass Pro Shops. They have 5 technicians on staff, 2 of which are Mercury Certified.

 They are open Monday – Saturday, 9am – 6pm. Phone: 225-271-3072

 These guys can repair all makes of boats and all Mercury Engine Products.

 In addition to this, they will install any accessory you buy inside Bass Pro using their low flat-rate pricing. You do not pay by the hour when having accessories installed!!

 The below chart represents some of the most popular items we install and the corresponding labor charges. Price is for labor only and does not include tax. 

 

Tracker Service Installation Charges	$ Amount
Replace Impeller/Water Pump	149.95
Install Gauge R&R	49.95
Install Gauge " " if hole needs drilled	99.95
Aerator Pump Diagnose	24.95
Aerator Pump Remove & Replace	74.95
Bilge Pump Diagnose	24.95
Bilge Pump Remove & Replace	74.95
Trailer Lights Remove & Replace	49.95
Install Trolling Motor	124.95
Battery Charger Diagnose	24.95
Battery Charger Remove & Replace	99.95
Install Depth Finder Transom Transducer	199.95
External GPS, Antenna /add .50	249.95
Install Depth Finder Thru Hull Transducer	299.95
Install Transducer Rear	124.95
Install Transducer Thru Hull	149.95
Install Transducer Trolling Motor	74.95
Install Depth Finder on Bow w/T/M Transducer	99.95
Install Keel Guard	199.95
Install Electric Anchor	199.95
Install Manual Anchor	49.95
Install Ladder on Transom	149.95
Install Ladder (over the side pontoon)	49.95
Install Guide on Bunks	99.95
Install Spare Tire & Wheel (brackets)	24.95
Install Boat Buckle/Ratchet Tie Downs	24.95
Install Trailer Winch	49.95
Install Trailer Jack	49.95
Install 12 Volt Accessory Plug	74.95
Install Stereo & Speakers	299.95
Install Stingray's/Dolphins	49.95
Install Perko Battery Switch	99.95

 Josh Petty

Tracker/Marine Manager

Denham Springs

 

Over the course of the past couple of decades kayaking has and the design of the boats have changed greatly. The kayaks are no longer designed just for whitewater enthusiasts. There are many recreational kayaks available which incorporate stability and ease of paddling. Recreational kayaks make excellent fishing boats and allow the paddler access to shallower water and areas crowded with trees and stumps which larger fishing boats may not be able to travel through. Kayaks such the Ascend FS10 and the Ascend FS12 are very stable and fun kayaks to fish out of. The Ascend kayaks have a screw out deck plate dry storage system with keeps essentials such as a wallet, camera, cell phone or other essentials to remain dry and safe. They have an adjustable full tackle rod tender which I find convenient for setting a line with a bobber or on the bottom away from the bank while I use a baitcaster or spinning reel to cast under the trees or along brush at the edge of a river or lake. The FS10 kayak has a large and convenient storage area in the bow that accommodates tackle boxes, small coolers, and dry bags. The Ascend FS12 kayak has quite a bit more storage area because of the storage area in the stern of the kayak. I plan on using my Ascend FS12 this year on overnight expeditions on the rivers of the Ozarks and perhaps maybe even Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Minnesota.

Another great kayak to fish out of is the Ascend FS12T sit on top kayak. I like my sit on top Ascend especially in the hotter months where I can dangle my legs over the side and cool off while paddling and fishing. I also like this kayak for paddling the streams where there might be some very shallow shoals. It is so easy to jump out of the kayak and move it across the shallow and then jump right back on. This kayak has an interior storage area with a water tight hatch on the front with a nice storage well on the rear. This sit on top is a nice design when paddling where there might be a motor boats which can send out a large wake. The scupper holes let a wave crash over the kayak and totally drain in a matter of seconds. This self bailing design also allows for a kayak to be turned over and then flipped back by the paddler while he is in the water and then to pull himself out of the water and back paddling in less than 90 seconds.

There are many accessories which can be used while kayak fishing and many kayaks can be retrofitted with fishing attachments. I like the small fish locators which are easy to use with a kayak such as the Garmin Echo 150. A small locator like this can really help nail the locations of those trophy fish back in tight areas of lakes which were once woods.There are fish locators which have GPS and allow for software with maps the topography of the body of water you are on. Even if you don't use a fish finder having a GPS is a very good tool I  have carried a Garmin eTrex on my kayaks for a long time and use Velcro mounted on my deck and on the back of the unit to help me know my locations. Many units have the capability of downloading lake charts into them such as the Navionics HotMaps with multi dimensional Lake maps. I find this handy in the lakes I paddle in Boundary Waters.

I have discovered that accessing a large tackle box in a kayak is not as easy as in a fishing boat like a Bass boat. One of the ways I have kept access to my lures and such is to use Bass Pro shops storage boxes which can easily hand many lures and can be tucked beside my seat for easy access. Another great tip is an Atwood Fold and Stow Fishing Net. These fold down for easy storage which can be at a premium in a kayak. Many people are now using kayaks in larger ponds where one can not cast to the middle yet getting a boat on it is difficult or awkward. A kayak can be transported through a field or down a trail using an Atwood Kayak cart with little effort. The addition of a kayak to your fishing tackle can help you gain access to areas which rarely get fished. 

Safe Paddling

Dennis Wise

 

 

   

It's cold outside, and many people are having severe cases of "Cabin Fever" this time of the year. Bass Pro Shops is currently having a sale to help with that. Our annual CABIN FEVER SALE. There are numerous items in there to help you "brave" the cold, and get outdoors.

In that flyer you will also find a great selection of our Tracker Boats, and boating accessories. Did you know that here in 2012 Tracker Marine is celebrating 35 years of delivering the finest boats in the industry? To celebrate this milestone Tracker Marine Group has continued to issue everyone that buys a new boat with one of our VIP cards. We are also giving a free $500 or a $1000 Bass Pro Shops gift card on select model boats. Come on in to the showroom here at the Clarksville, IN store and have a Boat Sales Associate explain how it works.

Our annual Free Boat Show here at the Clarksville, Indiana store will be starting on February 10th and running through the 19th. What a great time to bring in the family and view the selection of Tracker Boats. We have all of the brands, Tracker, Tahoe, Suntracker, Nitro, right here on site for you to view. We will be having some great crafts, and activities for the kids as well during the show.

We hope to see you then,

Bob Crane
BPS / Tracker Marine

Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World would like to welcome the Malibu Kayaks to their stores.  Malibu kayaks is trademarked for their "Gator Hatch" allowing  you to get the whole family involved.  The "Gator Hatch" is a low-profile seat allowing the child to sit in front of you, move with ease yet feel secure at the same time. Looking for the perfect boat, look no further the Stealth line may be used for fishing, nature watching,  recreation, light touring, and even a little exercise.  Stealth's are offered in three lengths; Stealth 9, Stealth 12, and Stealth 14.  The Stealth 9 is perfect for a "personal" day on the lake.  This boat is 9' 3", weighing 49 lbs, 33.5" wide, comes with dry seating for 1, a built in center tank system which you may buy a pump for, adjustable foot tracks, and can hold a load up to 275 lbs.  Also the unique platform around the center bait tank makes for an easy to stand on casting deck.  Looking for a little extra room to take the little one out for some quality time in the great outdoors, then the Stealth 12 is an awesome choice.  It is 12' 4" long, weighing in at 60 lbs, 33" wide at the beam, holding a maximum load of 450 lbs, having the same features as its shorter sister kayak, the Stealth 9,  such as the built in bait tank, center casting platform with dry storage, adjustable foot track system, but it also has the patented "Gator Hatch", 4 rod holders, side carry/ paddle holders, and is compatible with many other accessories; such as a custom trolling motor kit, x-wing with optional 3 switch electrical plate, foot rudder system, and a rear live well storage tank.  If you are looking for a bit of a longer kayak, then the Stealth 14 is for you, coming in at 14' 4" and weighing 64 lbs.  It has all the features of both the Stealth 9 and Stealth 12, but holds up to 550 lbs, and has a 45 degree rear hatch with a bag.  Looking for something a little simpler then the Pro Explorer is for you, is may be used for fishing and recreation.  This 12' 6"  boat was built for stability, easy paddling, and easy storage.  All the malibu kayaks come in fun colors, red, mango, yellow, blue, stone, sand, lime green, and white.   So come down to your local Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World and choose a kayak from our family that fits perfectly with your family.        

Situated on the banks of the Ohio River, Clarksville, Indiana (www.town.clarksville.in.us/)  has a long, rich outdoors history.  Some of the oldest naturally exposed fossil beds (www.fallsoftheohio.org/) can be seen there; Native Americans set up camps along the Ohio River as it was close to the crossing of the Buffalo Trace; it was the gathering point for the Lewis and Clark Expedition of the Louisiana Purchase (www.lewisandclarktrail.com/legacy/louisclark/) and John James Audubon was only one of several naturalists to study the variety of wildlife in the area.  With such an outdoors heritage it is only natural that outdoors giant Bass Pro Shops has built a retail store in Clarksville which bills itself as the “Oldest American Town in the Northwest Territory.”  At 280,000 square-feet, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World store is the company’s second largest to date.

Located in the River Falls Mall, just off Interstate 65 and across the river from Louisville, Kentucky, the entire store is a tribute to the Kentuckiana region and its people and, like other Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World stores, takes on the flavor and atmosphere of the region in which it is located.  Using area artifacts, antiques and memorabilia the store becomes a living museum of the hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor legacies of Indiana.

The outdoor super store features two levels and is part museum, part art gallery, part education, conservation and entertainment center.  Massive log and rock work frame the Grand Entrance where inside, timber skin walls and vaulted post and beam construction ceiling make up the front lobby.   Natural daylight streams through the store through the 50,000-square-foot Hypalon roof structure.

Museum quality wildlife exhibits adorn the entire store including state record fish mounts, turkeys, native waterfowl, quail, pheasants, rams, elk, full body whitetail mounts and bears.  State record mounts are displayed alongside local historical prints depicting early Indiana residents enjoying sporting adventures.

Inside, giant, exquisitely crafted outdoor themed chandeliers, made by Bass Pro Shops own artisans, hang throughout the store.  Dinosaur fossils and wildlife tracks are imprinted in the concrete floor.  One of the store’s focal points is a rock bluff structure that showcases a dramatic 65’ waterfall (one of three) flowing into the 50,000 gallon aquarium which features two tanks.  It is stocked with more than 300 fish native to the area including large and smallmouth bass, catfish, carp, walleye, bluegill, and crappie.  A beaver pond and stream runs through the central clerestory on the main floor. 

Two elevators rise through cave-like structures near the aquarium allowing visitors to see through the aquarium on their ride up to the 2nd floor.

Murals, wildlife paintings and animal dioramas help portray local and regional scenes to lend authenticity and help capture the Indiana landscape.

On the 91,500-square foot first floor, visitors have the area’s largest selection of freshwater rods, reels and fishing accessories, all hand-picked and specially selected for the area, to choose from.  The White River Fly Shop, featuring antique and collectible fly fishing memorabilia, has a vast selection of the latest in fly fishing gear.  Experts will continue the art of hand-tying flies on site and assist customers in making the perfect selection.

More than a fishing store, visitors find items perfect for camping, hiking, outdoor cooking, bird watching or whatever your outdoor pleasures. A gift and nature center offers a variety of items from artwork to lamps, to bird feeders and furniture, home decorating items and gifts for the holidays.  Cooking accessories include cookbooks, spices, grills and jerky making items.

The attention to detail continues upstairs in the 178,600 square-foot second floor.  The hunting department features a 75’ long curved counter which stands ready to help assist customers.  Hunting cabinets are adorned with hand-carved animals.  World Class record mounts grace the walls.  Customers will find an equally impressive array of hunting clothing and gear.  The archery department offers a bow set-up shop and a 25-yard live archery range is perfect for testing that new bow or sharpening necessary skills.

Shooters of all ages will enjoy the 16,000-square foot, walk-through “African Big Game” safari-style rifle arcade with  animated targets.  There is also a theater-styled seminar room which will accommodate up to 200 people for various civic, educational or conservation functions.

A NASCAR department provides 3 car simulators plus all the clothing and items featuring your favorite driver. 

An 11,000 square-foot marine and boat center helps area residents have fun on the water with a full range of powerboats from Tracker Marine--the world’s largest manufacturer of fishing boats.  From big water boats to small fishing, canoeing and even kayaking, customers will find exactly what they need with selections from  Tracker, Nitro, Tahoe, Mako, Kenner and more.  An on-site boat service center with 4 service bays is available for customers’ convenience for boat rigging and repairs.

The store offers Outdoor Skills Workshops for adults, kids and families that will help maximize outdoor fun by teaching new skills and improving existing ones.  They also feature many youth activities throughout the year.

For more information regarding your Clarksville Bass Pro Shops store location, products or special events, please visit www.basspro.com or call 812-218-5500.
Visit us soon!
Tina Tucker, Special Events Coordinator

Hello once again everyone. 

Recently, I accepted an opportunity in our Bass Pro Shops Tracker Service Center and let me tell you, I am extremely pumped about this opportunity to serve our customers.

In this post, I'm writing about something I knew about because I own a boat and fish every chance I get.  Many of us, boat owners, that have owned a boat for at least a few years are familiar with the acronym associated with "BOAT" - Break Out Another Thousand".  Today, I have a good example of how managing the little things can prevent them from building on one another when they go wrong and eventually make a mountain out of a mole-hill, or a $1,000 expense rather than a $100 expense.

We all burn fuel in our Outboard engines and this fuel can contain anywhere from 3 to 10 percent Ethanol and this Ethanol is having adverse affects on our fuel lines.  If you do not have an Ethanol resistant fuel line that runs from your tank to your engine, you have a potential problem on your hands.

In the photo at left, this is where the problem begins.  Notice how the inner lining of the fuel line is separating from the outer part of the line.  This inner lining becomes hardened by the Ethanol and begins to break up into small pieces over time.  At this point, we are our own worst enemy because as these smaller pieces begin to accumulate, we pump them into our engine when we prime the fuel using the primer bulb sending the tiny pieces into the fuel filter.


Once your fuel filter begins collecting the tiny pieces, it will not take long for you to notice the difference in your engine's performance.  It will sputter and idle rough.  This is because the pieces are hindering the flow of fuel to the engine.  These two parts of the fuel system are relatively minor in expense to repair.  You can purchase the fuel line and filter from your local Bass Pro Shop Marine Accessories  Department or Tracker Service Parts Department and install them yourself.  If caught early enough and replaced, this may be all you need to do to remedy the issue and prevent additional expenses.  If you have neglected to listen to your engine, you may be in need of the services of a professional technician.

This photo shows a Fuel pump littered with tiny pieces of inner lining from a non-Ethanol resistant fuel line.  In this case, the tiny pieces will continue to break up into smaller and smaller pieces until they eventually pass through the pump into either the filter or carburetor.  This will cause serious performance issues with your engine and increased service costs.  In this case, the fuel pump was removed, cleaned, a new diaphragm was installed and the pump put back on the engine.  Fortunately, it was not necessary to rebuild the carburetors.

Even with the expense of the fuel pump rebuild, replacing the fuel filter and replacing the fuel line, these costs were much more tolerable than what could have been incurred.

Please note, I am not an engine technician nor an expert in engine maintenance.  I only know what I've learned from my own experiences as a boat owner.  And believe me, I would much rather replace the fuel line and fuel filter annually than suffer the expense of a carburetor and fuel pump rebuild.  Besides, the less money I spend on engine maintenance, the more money I have for worms and crankbaits.

Until next time,

Michael Lawson
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
Grapevine, Texas

Well we are at the end of most of the fishing seasons and it’s time to take care of winterizing our boats properly so we won’t have any problems when we need it again in the spring. Here are a few helpful hints to help you in these tasks.

1. Always use a good stabilizer in your fuel and remember to add the amount recommended for winterizing it. Normally, it is double the normal amount, but please use the manufacturer recommendation. We have a great assortment at all our Bass Pro Shops such as Stabil, Startron, Quicksilver and CRC brands.
2. Next, check your lower unit for contamination of water. To do this, loosen the lower drain plug very carefully, holding pressure on it at all times, and let just a little drain into a glass container. If it has water in it or is discolored, it will need to be drained and refilled, but first find the reason it has been contaminated. Most of the time, contamination is due to the seal behind the prop being damaged from old fishing line wrapping around it. If so bring it in to Tracker Boat Service for repair.  If no repair is needed then proceed with replacing the lower unit grease by draining it and removing the upper vent hole screw and then fill from the bottom (with our special kit available at Bass Pro Shops) until it starts to come out of the top vent hole. Then, replace the top vent screw first and then the lower plug.
3. Now, you should fog the engine with special fogging oil. This will keep the fuel system fresh and ready for the next season. We have a good variety of fogging spray at Bass Pro Shops. Look for our winterizing display on the end of the oil aisle. Please read the recommended procedure on can before you use it.
4. Always charge the batteries for the winter storage. If you have an on-board charger and it is designed to cut off after completing the charge as our chargers do, then plug it in and forget about it until Spring. But always check the water levels in the batteries first before you charge them. This is a good procedure every time you plan on charging any battery.  Not all battery chargers are the same. Our XPS chargers are designed to charge the battery up to 14.6 volts at which time it will go through a conditioning process to reverse sulfating and then bring the battery down to 13.3 volts and hold it there until needed. It will not overcharge the battery and unlike other chargers, every 21 days it will go through the same process to keep the battery charged and ready to go fish.
5. Check your live wells to make sure you have drained them good to keep from freezing and damaging a live well pump. Run the pump for a short time to make sure its empty. The same goes for the bilge pump. Do not leave the drain plug in and always use a good boat cover when storing it out in the elements. A good boat cover will fit tight around the hull to prevent critters from getting in and making a winter home out of your boat. It will also keep it dry for the winter. Make sure to use moisture absorbing pads or containers to keep it from mildewing the seats and carpet.  We also have cover supports that you use in areas where the cover sags and may cause water to pool up.
6. It’s a good idea to take the trolling motor off and store it for the winter. This is a good time to check behind the prop for fishing line that could damage the water tight seal that protects your motor.
7. If you have removable electronics on board, such as fish finders. It’s a good idea to take them in out of the extreme cold weather.  If you treat them good they will treat you good as well.
8. Grease the steering cable if required and always grease the trailer bearings for the winter storage if you have greasable hubs. This will push out any water that it has retained.  Always use the proper trailer hitch grease for the trailer hitch assembly. This will prevent rust from forming during storage. This can be acquired at all Bass Pro Shops.
9. It’s a good habit to lower the motor during winter season to prevent water from freezing in it and cracking the lower unit.

We hope these hints will help and let you have a great first fishing trip when Spring fishing cranks back up.
 
From all of us in the Marine Accessories Department in Bass Pro Shops at Ashland, VA. , remember in every sport if you put safety first then fun will follow every time.
                                                          
Marine Lead                                                                                                                                                                   
Larry G. Martin

Father's Day is right around the corner and that means it's time to show Dad how much you really care.  Whether Dad likes camping, hiking, kayaking, or just relaxing in the backyard Bass Pro is sure to have a perfect gift for him. 

Kayaking
If your Dad enjoys being on the water just relaxing or fishing try a kayak, we have all the latest and greatest kayaks from Old Town, Ascend, and Ocean Kayak. Give him the best of both worlds with an Ascend FS12 T angler kayak. This boat is offered in olive or sand and rigged up for a perfect day of fishing. Grab a rod or two, some tackle, a paddle, and have a great day out on the water. 

Camping/Hiking
If Dad is more into getting away from the hectic life and into the woods, we have all the latest equipment and great knowledgeable associates to help you choose the right gift.  You could start by grabbing a new Ascend hiker tent, a backpack from our great selection or The North Face, Ascend, Kelty, and JanSport, and a few odds and ins such as bug spray, a tick key, a compass, or a flashlight. Pack it all up and Dad will be a happy camper.

Backyard
If Dad would rather just kick back and relax in the backyard start with a grill like a Charbroil Duo. It makes for easy propane cooking on a busy work night, a nice enjoyable meal over charcoal on the weekends, or you can add the smoke box and turn your duo into a triple play. . . charcoal grill, gas grill, and smoker all in one.  If that's not enough, slide on over to our grilling accessories and grab everything he'll need to maintain and clean his grill; from charcoal to grill brushes, and all the newest accessories. And do not forget the seasonings and rubs, from the Kick Butt Chipotle Honey for those who have that sweet and savory taste to Bone Suckin' Sauce - Hot for those who like the heat. Grab a cooler for an ice cold drink or even a Margaritaville Frozen Concoction Maker for those nice chilled drinks.

So no matter what your Dad enjoys Bass Pro Shops is sure to have the perfect gift......Happy Father's Day!!!

Bass Pro Shops have a little bit of everything when it comes to the outdoors. We have camping accessories, footwear, clothing, boating accessories, fishing, and much more. One thing that skips a lot of people’s mind is electronics and accessories, but we have those as well. The Otterboxes are one of those really cool accessories that we carry for electronics. When you are trying to protect your electronics from the elements I highly recommend an otterbox. One of my most recent purchases was an Otterbox for my Ipad. Since I bought the Ipad I have worried myself sick about scratching it or messing up something on it. As a matter of fact the very first day I got it I laid it on the couch for just a second and here comes my 5 months old boxer puppy barreling down the hall. She took a flying leap right on to the screen. Luckily it didn’t mess anything up. The very next day I went and bought the Otterbox. I’m not saying it’s indestructible, but it does give me piece of mind when it’s lying around the house. I would have to say I am extremely satisfied with my Otterbox. 

Check out these awesome products at:

www.basspro.com

www.otterbox.com

 

Our outdoor event is back! This Go Outdoors Classic is our annual tradition to expose all round us to the wonders of camping, boating, hiking and everything the outdoors has to offer.

Seminars:

Campfire Cooking 101
May 21 & 28 at 1pm
Join the Camping Department staff to learn the basics of preparing tasty over-the-fire meals.

Selecting the Proper Kayak/Canoe
May 21 & 28 at 2pm
Let our Bass Pro Shops staff give you tips on selecting the best kayak or canoe for your next float trip.

Camping Basics
May 21 & 28 at 3pm
Learn camping essentials. Our experts staff will give you all the information you need to get started.

Backpacking 101
May 22 & 29 1pm
Check out the latest backpacking accessories. We’ll also help you organize your pack for better adventures.

Kayak Fishing Basics
May 22 & 29 2pm
Learn the basics of fishing off your kayak from the experts! This class will provide all the information you will need to get started.

Wild Florida Productions
May 22 & 29 3pm
Join Otter John and his amazing animals in this fun, informative and interactive wildlife show.

Workshops, Demos and Activities:

Ruff N Tuff Paintball
Saturdays and Sundays
May 21-29 Noon to 5pm
Join the Ruff N Tuff paintball pros and test your skills at their Free paintball demo cage.

Smoker Tips & Techniques
Saturdays and Sundays
May 21-29 1pm to 5pm
Bass Pro Shops staff will share tips and techniques on preparation and cooking of brisket, ribs, turkey, pork shoulder, and salmon. Enjoy Free samples while supplies last. 

Kayak Pool
Time and Dates TBD
Test out our new kayak and find out the right fit for you.



Have your family photo taken!
Saturdays and Sundays
May 21-29 Noon to 5pm
Take a great family picture with a beautiful outdoor background. Make it fun, come dressed up and pretend you are in the outdoors or simply have a beautiful picture you can share with our whole family. You get a FREE 4X6 and you will also have the opportunity to purchase other photo packages that will print within minutes right in the store avoiding all the extra expenses of ordering online!

Yard Bolo Challenge
Saturdays and Sundays
May 21-29 Noon to 5pm
Challenge yourself or someone else to get them most points at this exiting game.

Sleeping Bag Challenge
Saturdays and Sundays
May 21-29 Noon to 5pm
In your marks, get set, GO!! Run to your sleeping, zip up, roll it, tie it and run back to the fishing line. Compete against a friend or sibling or try to beat your own record.

Direct me to the Compass
Saturday May 21 & May 28
1pm to 3pm
Kids will learn how to use a compass correctly, why the needle of the compass always navigates north and much more. Then we will guide your child in the process of making there own take home compass!

At the Campsite
Saturday May 21 & May 28
1pm to 3pm
Kids can join our team to go over how to choose a campsite, setting up a tent, rolling a sleeping bag and safe practices to use when building a campfire.

Choosing and Marking Nature Trails
Sunday May 22 & May 29
1pm to 3pm
Kids will learn about choosing and marking nature trails and what to watch for while hiking.

Trees Around Us
Sunday May 22 & May 29
1pm to 3pm
Kids will learn to identify some local and non local trees by leaves and bark. We will finish the workshop with a leaf rubbing activity.

Crafts

Name ID tag!
Saturday May 21 & 28
1pm to 4pm
Kids will be able to make there own Name ID tags. While supplies last.

Create your own foil craft!
Sunday May 22 & 29
1pm to 4pm
Kids will be able to make there own foil craft. While supplies last.

Sweepstakes
May 20 thru May 30
Enter to win a family vacation for life! Over a $55,000 Value! Includes $20,000 cash!
Plus one winner from each store will receive the first place prize; a complete camping package, a $595 value!!

Bass Pro Shops is known for featuring the best outdoor gear, accessories and resources for fishing, boating, hunting and outdoors expeditions. To keep in the spirit as a one stop shop we have created the Hunting and Fishing expo. Attend seminars from local hunting and fishing experts, participate in our workshops at the IGFA amphitheater and sign up your kids for Fishing with the Pros. Visit booths containing artists creations inspired by the outdoors, hunting guides and outfitters, fishing charters, fishing and hunting clubs, conservation groups, enter raffles and more! Plus don't miss Gator Boy's 40' x 40' live alligator pen!!!

Seminar Schedule at Bass Pro Shops
Saturday, April 30
12:00 PM Fresh Water Tip and Techniques-Bass Online Pro Team
1:00 PM Florida Off Season Hunting-Pro Staff Bob Hayes
2:00 PM Salt Water Bottom Fishing-Pro Staff Capt. Brian
3:00 PM Fresh Water Fishing with Billy Bob-Pro Staff Billy Bob
4:00 PM Dolphin Fishing-Pro Staff Capt. Brian

Sunday, May 1
12:00 PM Tarpon Fishing-Pro Staff Capt. Brian
1:00 PM Fresh Water Tournament Fishing-Pro Staff Mike Gershberg and Mike O’Connor
2:00 PM Florida Off Season Hunting-Pro Staff Bob Hayes
3:00 PM Fishing Biscayne Bay-Pro Staff Capt. Brian
4:00 PM Bass Fishing Q & A-Pro Staff Mike Gershberg and Mike O’Connor

Workshops/Seminars next door in the IGFA outdoor amphitheater
Saturday, April 30
1:00 PM Fresh Water Casting Workshop-Bass Online Pro Team
2:00 PM Fresh Water Kayak Fishing-Frank Akey
3:00 PM Casting Artificials for Salt Water- Pro Staff Capt. Brian

Sunday, May 1
1:00 PM Net Casting Workshop- Pro Staff Capt. Brian
2:00 PM Fresh Water Kayak Fishing-Frank Akey
3:00 PM Casting Workshop-Bass Online Pro Team

Admission is free so don’t miss this amazing event!!!

This is the time of year we all are uncovering our boats and getting ready for our next boat outing or fishing trip. So let’s make it a safe one.
 
Now is the time to check and double check, so we will have a pleasant outing without problems. Here are some suggestions to  help you get ready.

Check to make sure all of the safety equipment you are required to have is still in good shape. 

• Check the fire extinguisher to make sure the arrow on the gauge is still in the green. 
• Check the throw device or cushion to make sure they are sound, without any rips and the label is still readable.
• Make sure you have a life jacket in good shape that fits for each person you plan to have on board.
• Do you have a whistle or sound device on board?
• If you have flares, check their expiration dates. They have to be within the expiration period or replace them. Remember flares are cheaper than the citation the Coast Guard or Inland Game and Fishery will give you.

Now for the necessities,

• Make sure you have a good drain plug.
• How about the rope you use to hold the boat when you put it in the water.
• Don’t get a surprise with a dead trolling motor Battery or Starting battery. Check the voltage on them now with a volt meter to make sure they are charged to 12.75 to 12.80.
• If you are going on night fishing trip, check you’re running, and anchor lights now, before you get on the water.
• Now let’s check the air pressure in the tires and the condition of the tires.
• Check the air in your spare tire. Does it look OK? Now’s the time to make sure.
• Check the transom Straps that hold the boat on the trailer.
• Now let’s check the Trailer running lights, brake lights and turn signals.
• OK, Grease the Easy Lube Hubs or buddy bearings and let’s go fishing.

Come on by the Marine Accessories Department at Bass Pro Shop in Ashland, VA for any and all of the Accessories you may need to get ready or go fishing.
              
Larry Martin- Marine Lead           
Bass Pro Shops- Ashland, Va.

It looks to be a beautiful weekend in Middle Georgia: weather forecasts call for sunny skies and warm temperatures. This is the just the forecast needed to enjoy the historic Ocmulgee River!

Available at Bass Pro Shops, an Ascend Kayak, is the perfect way to have fun on the river.  Ascend Kayaks strike a balance between superior performance, exceptional comfort and well thought out ergonomic design. This, coupled with the rich array of accessories and exceptional pricing, makes the Ascend family of kayaks the best value in the kayak market.

With prices that will fit any budget, Ascend Kayaks feature a variety of storage options including rod storage, sealed dry storage for wallets and keys, cup holders and even cooler recesses.  

If all that paddling sounds like too much for you, then hop aboard one of our Bass Pro Shops XPS Titan Towable Tubes. You can either tow them behind your boat or use them for a lazy float down the river. Designed for one, two and even four riders, these tubes are designed for stability. A rugged nylon cover encloses a heavy-duty PVC bladder for added durability.

Regardless of which activity you choose, get up and "Go Outdoors" this weekend!

Bass Pro Shops is known for featuring the best outdoor gear, accessories and resources for fishing, boating, hunting and outdoors expeditions. To keep in the spirit as a one stop shop we have created the Hunting and Fishing expo to be held at our Dania Beach/Fort Lauderdale store on 04/30/2011 - 05/01/2011. 
     
Attend seminars from local hunting and fishing experts, participate in our workshops and sign up your kids for Fishing with the Pros. Visit booths containing the latest products, learn about the newest equipment from the top manufactures in the country, artists creations inspired by the outdoors, hunting guides and outfitters, fishing charters, fishing and hunting clubs, conservation groups and more!

 

Come back soon for updates on seminar topics and times.

 

PS: If you would like more information on requirements to participate in this event as an outfitter, guide, charter, club, conservation group, outdoor artist, etc. please e-mail me at drodriguez2@basspro.com.

By JT Uptegrove

There is an integral piece of your fishing equipment that often gets overlooked -- your boat trailer.  Often you'll accessorize your boat, truck and other gear and completely forget about your boat's trailer.

 

Luckily, when you want to spruce up that trailer, Bass Pro Shops has an extensive collection of marine gear to do so.  There are plenty of goodies in the stores, catalogs and on the Internet.

 

When my fishing buddy and I decides to do a little refurbishing to our handy boat hauler, we decided on three very practical add-ons.

 

First, since we were tired of throwing the spare trailer tire in the back of the truck, we picked up a spare tire carrier.  It's about as simple and useful of an item as you can get.

 

It's a hot-dipped galvanized metal appendage that your spare tire mounts securely on.  You can bolt it right to the frame of the trailer's tongue.  It's made with 1-piece construction for extra strength to withstand vibration.  As a bonus it'll hold 4 or 5 lug wheels and adjusts for frames up to 3"Wx4"H.  The side offset is 4-1/2" from the frame with 5" rise for ground clearance.  All mounting hardware is included and it's a snap to put on.  Now the tire doesn't have to be remembered since it always there when you need it. 

 

Our second accessory just makes getting the boat on the trailer effortless.  We installed Glyde Sliks, which allow your boat to slide on the trailer without all the extra throttle.  Glyde Sliks mount right on your carpeted bunk boards.  All kits include stainless steel screws and instructions.  They are economical, injection molded material with special anti-friction and UV inhibiting additives, and they have a 3-year replacement guarantee against breakage.  Once you put them on, the friction between the bottom of the boat and the runners is gone.  You can just back your trailer in the water without getting your back tires wet and ease the boat right up were it needs to be. 

 

Our last purchase came to me after watching my buddy make a couple dozen attempts to back the trailer down the ramp after dark.  Since I had so long to sit in the boat while he would back up and pull forward, I thought for a while and came to the conclusion we needed something easier.  That's when the B &M Guide-Lite System came to mind.  It allows you to know exactly where the trailer is without all the neck twisting and guessing.

 

The system has two lighted 24-inch long space-age plastic rods that stick up from each rear corner of the boat. It installs quickly and painlessly.  Not only does it tell you where your boat is, but it lets everyone else know as well.   That makes it a great safety feature.   They're weatherproof and hook right to the existing 12-volt system. They mount on heavy chrome bases and the bulbs burn around 40,000 hours while only drawing .035 amps per lamp. 

 

If you'd like to make some simple and inexpensive upgrades to your trailer this year -- check out these three products.  They'll make your time on the boat ramp a lot more efficient, and they might just save you a lot of aggravation this boating season. 

View The Item(s)

B & M Guide-Lite™

Fentress Marine Trailer Glyde Sliks

Spare Tire Carrier