MLF: Big Fish Galore — Lake Jordan, Raleigh, NC
An unforgettable day of big bites and heavier limits.

Jackplate Upgrade for Ranger 519vx

While having the outboard rebuilt, it’s a great time to add a jackplate to the Ranger 519vx. Jackplates allow you to adjust motor height and prop depth, improving both speed and control.

💥 Dead or Blown Powerhead — It Happened Again

If you’ve owned a two-stroke outboard long enough, you’ve probably been there —
the dreaded blown powerhead moment. Maybe there’s a warning buzzer, maybe it’s just that gut-sinking feeling when the engine tone changes and your boat suddenly loses power.

Sadly, this time, my Mercury Optimax joined the club.

🎣 Shimano Curado DC Review — CUDC150

If you spend any time throwing baits into the wind or skipping jigs under docks, you know how quickly a baitcaster can turn into a bird’s nest.
Enter the Shimano Curado DC, a low-profile reel with built-in digital control that monitors your cast thousands of times per second — literally designed to prevent backlash.

⚙️ What Makes the Curado DC Different?

At the heart of this reel is Shimano’s Digital Control (DC) Braking System, which uses sensors to monitor the spool 1,000 times per second, automatically adjusting braking pressure to prevent overruns.

🧼 How To: Clean Boat Carpet Like a Pro

If your bass boat’s carpet looks rough after a few trips — full of blood, grease, or fish slime — here’s a cleaning method that’s budget-friendly, effective, and surprisingly simple.