New boating and fishing laws are now in effect to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species. Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act have made some changes for boaters and anglers that may switch up your regular routine. The amendents are intended to strengthen protection for Michigan's waterways against the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species.
Tagged UnderWhen it comes to the Holidays, our staff at Van's Sport Center and our customers get the real meaning of the phrase: "We are all in the same boat together."
We are constantly amazed and gratified at how everyday people in our area want to share their good fortune with others. A study done a couple of years ago by Grand Valley State University's Johnson Center for Philanthropy showed that individuals in Kent County have a reputation as being generous givers. At the time of the study in 2013, residents of Kent County accounted for about 9 percent of Michigan's total estimated giving by individuals, yet the area made up only 6 percent of Michigan's households.
You have been tossing around the idea of repowering your trusty boat for some time but the same question keeps popping up. Two or four? Which is a good question to have for a number of reasons. But to get to the answer of that question, you should first know the difference between the two motors. They both have their advantages and disadvantages. Once you have a good understanding of them, it really comes down to what motor is the best for your application of use.
Tagged UnderIf you ask any one of our mechanics here at Vans Sport Center what motor issues they see the most, they will tell you that the majority of service work they have to do on outboards now a days is fuel related. Which right there should tell you that making sure you have good fuel is one of the most important and preventive things you can do. The biggest problem with gas right now is the ethanol that is in it. The other major issue is letting it sit around and go bad. Gas can go bad over time due to water getting in the tank, oxygen, light, and the summer heat. This article will talk about some of the preventive measures you can take to avoid problems related to bad gas.
Tagged UnderAll through the winter, technicians at Van's Sport Center make great use of their time by reconditioning or parting out the trade-in marine motors that our store in Grand Rapids accepted during the 2016 boating season.
Our winter work can add up to big savings to you for marine motors and parts that have been run only in fresh water.
So now is the time to start thinking about whether the boat you love should be repowered with a larger used motor or if that tired old 2-stroke you've been nursing for years should finally be retired.
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With all of the public inland lakes in Michigan, you can go just about anywhere in the state and enjoy a great day of fishing. Whether your targeting panfish, walleye, pike, or bass, there is probably a lake nearby that holds those fish. But for someone who may not know many of our lakes or only goes a few times a year, they might have trouble locating the best lake for what they are trying to fish. I mean you can go anywhere and catch fish, but some lakes are way better than others for fishing certain species. Now Im not going to give any of my honey holes away, but I will tell you about some quality inland lakes here in Michigan that have public access. Hopefully this article will give some insight on new lakes for you to check out and what species are most targeted in those waters.
Tagged UnderWe've added a new item to our inventory! The Toadfish Non-Tipping Can Cooler is the first of its kind un-spillable beverage cooler. The innovative suction cup technology allows the Can Cooler to stick to any smooth surface. From a lack of cup holders on a rocking boat to wagging dog tails, this product will keep your drink upright, accident-free, and icy cold. Also, for every product sold, Toadfish will replant 10 sqft of new oyster beds to help clean our coastal waters! It's a must-have!
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