There’s only a few more weeks of warm summer weather left, then before you know it, the cool air will arrive. Depending on what part of the country you live in, getting in a few more trips to the lake might be easier said than done. Getting out to view the fall foliage and autumn colors from the water is worth braving the cooler temperatures, especially if you're prepared.
If you live up north, you know the cold weather can come without much warning. That’s why we've created a short list of products to help extend your boating season just a little bit longer.
Pontoon Boat Enclosure
A great way to keep out of the cold wind if you’re on a pontoon boat is by ordering an enclosure. Dowco Marine is a solid name in the marine industry and offers custom designed enclosures to fit your specific pontoon boat. They rely mainly on connecting to the boat’s existing Bimini top and the rigging on the boat’s sides. While there are many different types of enclosures such as full and partial ones, the main thing you want to ensure is that it can be used while the boat is in motion. Before you purchase one, make sure the driver’s view won’t be restricted. The benefit of this type of enclosure is that it does a good job not only of keeping the wind out but also keeping your body heat in. (www.dowcomarine.com)
Propane Heater
A small portable propane heater like the one from Mr. Heater is a good season extender, but you need to use it with caution. It is small enough to keep you or your passengers warm without requiring a high-voltage plug while the boat is not underway. All you need is a small to mid-sized bottle of propane to get it to work and it especially works well when you're out fishing on calm waters. (www.mrheater.com)
Waterproof Blanket
If you plan to bring your significant other or kids with you on the boat when it’s colder, having a warm blanket is a must. Unlike blankets you’d buy from retail stores, this option from Pretty Rugged is completely waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about it getting soaked or smelling of mildew after a day on the water. It comes with a convenient carrying bag that makes it a breeze to store on your boat. When it’s time to wash it, just throw it in your washer because it’s completely machine washable. (www.prettyruggedshop.com)
Milwaukee Heated Jacket
Here is a great heated option to keep you warm: a heated jacket by Milwaukee. This jacket comes powered by a rechargeable battery that offers up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge. It has a single power button that, when pressed multiple times, can cycle through the three heat settings. If you’ve ever used Milwaukee’s tools, you’ll know the quality and craftsmanship that goes into its products. This jacket is no different; it’s durable and tough. The best part is that it’s naturally water-resistant. It’s designed to get wet and a better option than cheaper versions. (www.milwaukeetool.com)
Whitewater Torque Heated Vest
Another heated product idea comes from Whitewater. Its Torque vest is the perfect layering tool. You can wear it under a light jacket and it is powered by a battery pack that stores conveniently in a hidden side pocket with three different heat settings. The lowest setting will warm the jacket to about 100 degrees Fahrenheit while the highest will set it to an impressive 130 degrees. The polyester lining makes the vest surprisingly comfortable to wear.
It feels lightweight and when you aren’t using the heating coils it can be surprisingly breathable. While it isn’t completely waterproof, the nylon outside of the jacket has been DWR-treated to repel moisture. (www.whitewaterfish.com)
Waterproof Gloves
This option is an easy decision for anyone wanting to boat during the colder months. A solid pair of waterproof gloves can make all the difference when out on the water. You’d be surprised how quickly the wind from driving your boat can restrict the blood flow to your hands, even on mild days. This option from Carhartt will keep your hands warm while still giving you the flexibility to do a lot of tasks you’d normally do on a boat. (www.carhartt.com)
Skiing Goggles
This one might seem a little silly as a boating product, but it's a trick we picked up from Ken Schultz at www.takemefishing.org. When driving your boat on a cold rainy day, seeing the path before you is an absolute necessity. This can be hard when your eyes are tearing up due to the temperature. That’s why Schultz recommends wearing a pair of clear ski goggles while driving your boat on cold days. Having something that gives your eyes more shielding from the wind than a traditional pair of sunglasses can really come in handy. The Ridge Clear goggle is just one example from FXR Racing that would be great and small enough you can easily keep on board. (www.fxrracing.com)
Waterproof Boots
Keeping your feet dry is crucial to staying warm when boating in the colder months. That’s why it's important to have a pair of waterproof deck boots like these ones from HUK. If you’re an avid fisherman, chances are you already own a pair and can attest to how great they are. Their non-slip outsole and neoprene upper construction make them a favorite among anglers, but they can be just as useful for the casual boater too. Combine these with a pair of warm wool socks and your feet will stay warm and dry no matter what the weather’s like. (www.hukgear.com)
Wetsuit
Just because the water temps are dropping doesn't mean the watersport season needs to end this time of year. Wetsuits keep your body heat in and allow you to still play in the water, even weeks after others may have determined the tubing season is over. Wearing a wetsuit such as the Hyperfreak Fire from O’Neill (or any of the wetsuits this retailer offers) is a true season-extender. (www.oneill.com)
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Whitewater Great Lakes Fishing Jacket & Bib
These two products from Whitewater pair perfectly together. Their waterproof bib is handy for more than just fishing. Its nylon and polyester materials make it a great option to layer over your clothes to keep you warm on the boat. The additional hand-warmer pockets located on the chest are a nice place to store your waterproof gloves when they aren’t being worn. If this alone isn’t enough to keep you warm, then pairing it with Whitewater’s waterproof fishing jacket is a great addition. The jacket is made from tear-resistant stretch nylon that does a fantastic job blocking the wind. The best part of the jacket may be the addition of the reflective tape that lines parts of the jacket for a unique, yet safe look. When it comes to launching in the early mornings, this combo will give you the confidence to do it while remaining visible to other people. (www.whitewaterfish.com)
