Spring Pre-Launch Checklist

Spring is just around the corner. And we all know what that means. Time to start getting our boats ready for time on the water. Annual preparation and cleaning projects are essential in helping to keep our boats protected and safe. We all want to spend more time on the water and not off once boating season begins - right?! Our friends at Discover Boating have put together some general guidelines for pre-season boat preparation with six key areas of maintenance. (Always consult your owner’s manual for maintenance instructions specific to your boat model.) Fuel System Inspect the fuel system for leaks or damage; pay special attention to fuel hoses, connections and tank surfaces. Evidence of damaged fuel hoses includes softness, brittleness or cracking. Replace components when necessary and verify all fittings and clamps are properly secured. Ensure the engine, exhaust and ventilation systems are all functioning properly. Belts, Cables & Hoses Belts, cables and hoses are important to check, as they can become brittle and may crack during winter storage. Belts should fit tightly around pulleys to prevent slipping; a worn belt may have a black substance near the pulley and will fit loosely. Cracks or swells on the outer jacket of control cables may be a sign you have to take immediate action. Electric System Inspect all electrical connections for cleanliness and tightness—corrosion is often a sign a connection may not be safe. To prepare electrical connections for the summer, remove the terminals and use a wire brush to clean them, along with all cable ends. Charge your battery and have it tested to ensure it can hold a charge. Electrical systems should be regularly inspected by a qualified technician. Fluid Levels Check all fluid levels including engine oil, power steering, power trim reservoirs, and coolant. Be sure to change the engine oil, oil filter, and drive lubricants, if these tasks were not done prior to winterizing your boat. Propellers & Hulls Inspect propellers for dings, pitting, cracks and distortion. Damaged propellers can cause unwanted vibration and damage to your drive train. Make sure the propeller is secured properly, and replace bearings when needed. When inspecting the hull, look for blisters, distortions and cracks. Be sure to clean the hull, deck, and topsides using an environmentally safe cleaning solution. And, make sure the drain plug is securely in place before every launch. Safety Gear Check your life jackets to ensure they are in good condition and that there are enough on board for all potential passengers. It’s important to ensure that each individual has the correct size life jacket for their body weight. Be sure all onboard fire extinguishers are the correct class for your vessel, and are fully charged and stowed in the proper place. Take advantage of any safety inspections offered by the US Coast Guard (USCG), USCG Auxiliary or US Power Squadrons.

Tips for Buying a Pre-Owned Boat

Pictured: 2003 Supra Launch SSV Gravity/SK - $28,500

Are you exploring the market for a "new to you" boat or pontoon? We have some helpful tips to save you time and headaches; whether you're thinking about purchasing from us or going with a private seller.

Buying From a Dealer

Buying a pre-owned boat from a trusted boat dealer can save you headaches and extra costs that might come along with buying from a private seller. We inspect every pre-owned boat so that it is ready and waiting for you to inspect it yourself. We stand behind all our boats, service, and maintenance. Your boat is an important investment and we can help you protect that investment. Having access to really good trustworthy boat service professionals is a key element of carefree boat ownership. Not everyone is cut out to do boat maintenance. But we are and we enjoy doing it. Our team of boat service professionals is among the best in the business. 

Sinclair Marina is part of the Classic City Marinas' Network Program. As part of Classic City Marinas' Network Program, our customers are welcome to use the marina facilities of any of our affiliate marinas. So if you live in Eatonton, Georgia, for instance, and you have your boat at Sinclair Marina, but you are a huge Clemson Tiger fan and spend fall weekends in Clemson, SC, you are welcome to reserve a temporary slip (subject to availability) at Clemson Marina at no additional charge to extend your weekend fun while in Tiger Town.

Buying From a Private Seller

Thinking about going with a private seller? Most private sellers do not allow you to test drive the boat that you are interested in purchasing. Most private sellers also do not stand behind the boat sale or offer mechanical and other help should a problem arise once the boat is yours.

If you're still considering purchasing a boat from a private seller - look for scratches, dents, cracks – open all doors and cabinets. Make sure to check the cables and steering. You may even consider hiring a qualified professional boat surveyor to look over the boat and to do a complete certified inspection. Always make sure that you’re working with a well known, local, and highly recommended seller.

Avoid Online Boat Sales
Stay away from long distance online boat sales. You may end up spending more money in traveling expenses, only to come back home with a broken boat or even worse, not coming home with a boat at all! Never purchase a boat online without inspecting it first, or hiring a certified professional to inspect it for you.

Sun Tracker Continues to Sell More Pontoons Than Any Other Company

Sun Tracker Boats continues to sell more pontoon boats than any other company. How is this you ask?

In case you didn't know, Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris introduced the industry’s first fully rigged fishing boat, motor and trailer package in 1978. He then followed up with a lineup of high-value pontoon boats. His legacy? Bringing breakthrough values to anglers and pleasure boaters everywhere.

As part of the Bass Pro Shops/Tracker Marine Group family, Sun Tracker takes nearly three decades of family-friendly innovations, comfort and quality and weaves them into every single model to produce a lineup of pontoon boats that is absolutely loaded with value. From the time you select the Sun Tracker that fits you and your family's lifestyle, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you have the backing of a solid, stable industry leader dedicated to your continued satisfaction.

Ready to meet the new Sun Tracker line-up?

 

10 Reasons to Take the Kids Fishing

Why should you take kids fishing? Well, we have narrowed our list to ten reasons; but if we left any out, feel free to share them with us.

• Give your spouse the day off. "Happy wife, happy life."
• Make it a game. You can quiz the kids on different lures, bait, and fish.
• Spend quality time together. Taking the kids on fishing trips creates lasting memories that will last a lifetime.
• Kids love being on the boat. Need we say more. Kid + Boat = Fun.
• Enhances creativity. Take the kids to the bait shop and have them pick a fishing lure. You’ll be surprised at what uses they can come up with besides using it for catching fish.
• Helps build character. Fishing is about patience. Untangling lines, losing your lures, or losing your catch. But it’s all worth it when you see your child smile and thank you for taking them fishing.
• Test your pain tolerance. Remember to take a boater safety class and always carry a marine first aid kit. You never know when you’ll have to get a hook out of your finger or hand.
• Become one with nature. Kids enjoy being in the elements. They are willing to endure the heat, rain, and wind as long as they’re having a great time fishing.
• Great fishing tales. After a day of fishing, they’ll want to tell everyone about their day.
• Keeps you humble. Keep the fishing trip all about them. As long as they’re catching or trying to catch fish, that’s all that really matters. Big or small, they’re just happy to be spending time with you.

We Offer a Free Online Boating Safety Course

In cooperation with BoatUS and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Sinclair Marina is pleased to offer this free online boating course. You will learn about state regulations, laws, safety and proper operation while on the water. Be a safe and responsible boater by expanding your knowledge with this course. And if you would like additional one on one skills training afterwards, please contact the Sinclair Marina staff at (478) 451-0167 to set up an appointment. Our professional staff can help you put your knowledge to the test in a real life setting.

Ready to access the course? Click here.

We Are Ready for Winter Services

Yes, we know it’s cold out but Spring will be here before you know it. The winter months is a great time to start thinking about getting your boat ready for more time on the water. Get necessary service, repairs, or even upgrades completed on your boat.

Your boat is an important investment and we can help you protect that investment. Not everyone is cut out to do boat maintenance and repairs. But we are and we enjoy doing it! Our team of boat service professionals is among the best in the business. From routine boat service to complicated boat repairs, we've got you covered.

Let Sinclair Marina take care of all your boating needs. Contact our service department today!

We're Busy Preparing for the Atlanta Boat Show!

We are busy preparing for the Atlanta Boat Show opening this week. Don’t forget to join Sinclair Marina at the Atlanta Boat Show, January 9-12, 2014 being held at Georgia World Congress Center. It’s Georgia’s Premier Boat Show, celebrating its 52nd year as the best place to see and buy boats, gear and accessories. Plus many more activities for the entire family to enjoy such as:

• NEW! Swampmaster Gator Show
• NEW! Rockin', Rollin', Bubbles
• Let's Go Fishing Center
• See the ALL-NEW Miss GEICO Racing Boat, plus more!

Be sure to stop by our display of new boats and pontoons. And with amazing deals, there’s no better time to buy your new pontoon or boat!

Which day will you be joining us at the Atlanta Boat Show?

Boat Shopping Tips for the Atlanta Boat Show

Are you making plans to see us at the Atlanta Boat Show, January 9-12, 2014? We sure hope you are. And in order to make your boat show experience not only educational but fun, we have some tips to help make finding and buying the boat of your dreams easy.

Choose Your Day Wisely

Thursday and Friday will have lighter crowds and shorter waits for boat displays. Saturday and Sunday typically have “bumper to bumper traffic”. It’s best to arrive at opening time. Pick your favorite few boats to inspect before the rush and then wait until the middle of the afternoon to check out some of the other popular models.

Do Your Homework

There are different styles and sizes of boats to choose from. It’s hard to make a decision if you haven’t already narrowed down your choices. Before attending the boat show, visit our website and start looking at the different models we sell. While browsing, think about what you’ll use your boat for and how many people you’ll take out at a time. That way, when you visit us at the show, you’ll be able to spend more time on the boat or boats that interest you the most.

Come Prepared

When you come to the boat show, bring these with you.

1. Questions - Bring all your questions. We'll have an expert team on hand to help you understand everything there is to know about the boating lifestyle and the different boats.
2. Notebook - You may want to take notes about and/or compare different boat models, sizes, how many people can fit or how much fuel the boat can hold. Record your observations about each boat that you are interested in. Write down what you liked or didn't like about each model.
3. Camera - Bring your camera to take lots of pictures. Yes, we have brochures but they sometimes leave out images of features you may consider important.

Climb Aboard

Don't be shy! Have a seat at the helm, open doors and check for storage room or take a peek at the head. Remember to wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off since shoes are not allowed on boats. We want you to feel comfortable spending time on the boats that will fit your lifestyle.

As always, our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

We can’t wait to see you at the Atlanta Boat Show! Which day do you plan on visiting us?

Come See Us at the Atlanta Boat Show!

Sinclair Marina will be at the Atlanta Boat Show, January 9-12, 2014 at Georgia World Congress Center. Georgia’s premier boat show is celebrating its 52nd year as the best place to see and buy boats, gear and accessories.

New boats, engines, marine gear, electronics and accessories fill the Georgia World Congress Center. And there’s no better time to buy! The 4-day event is your once-a-year chance to compare makes and models, secure insurance and financing and gear up with the latest accessories all at one time!

Show Hours

Thursday–Friday, January 9 and 10 - 11am to 9pm

Saturday, January 11 - 10am to 9pm

Sunday, January 12 - 10am to 6pm

Make sure to stop by and say hello. Which boat or pontoon are you looking forward to seeing at the show?

Why Should I Buy a Boat?

Are you thinking about getting on the water for the 2014 boating season? Like many first-time boat buyers, you’re probably wondering if the boating lifestyle is right for you and your family.

Here are a few reasons why you should buy a boat:

Improve Your Quality of Life

In case you did not know, it’s a proven fact that recreational boating improves your quality of life. Leave your troubles and stress at the docks.

Affordable

Think owning a boat is out of your budget? Boats can be financed for as little as $200 per month. Boating lenders are willing to work with you to make your dream of boat ownership a reality.

Close Water Access

Almost 90% of Americans live less than an hour away from a navigable body of water. Water access is closer than you think.

Bond with Friends and Family

Almost 54% of households listed fishing as their favorite boating activity? Close behind was cruising and relaxing with family and friends. Boating is quality time away from the hectic day-to-day routine of life.

Convenience

We already mentioned that over 90% of Americans live less than an hour away from a navigable body of water. Enjoy fresh air and water in no time.

Engaging and Rewarding

Recreational boating provides for opportunities of personal growth. You can learn to water ski, teach your child to fish and then enjoy eating fresh fish you caught yourself.

Good Exercise

Boating provides sporting enthusiasts many options to choose from water skiing to wake surfing.

Easy to Learn

Are you new to boating? There are many boating classes and courses available to choose from so you will be out on the water in no time.

Boating is FUN

What can we say? There are many activities you can enjoy while boating. Or simply, just spending a relaxing day on the water is reason enough.

Model Year End Clearance Sale

All our 2013 in stock inventory has been reduced! We will not be undersold! We guarantee the absolute lowest prices on any of our in stock 2013 boats.

We are ready to deal. This is your best opportunity to purchase the new boat you have been thinking about at a price that no other dealer can beat. 

We invite you to stop by our showroom and explore our in stock inventory.

Tips for Winterizing Your Boat and Engine

Winterizing your boat and motor is more than just pulling it out of the water. Winterizing your boat and motor is the most important maintenance you can perform to help ensure safe boating in the spring.

Whether you choose to do it yourself or have Sinclair Marina do it for you, winterizing is the best way to prepare your boat for the season to come. Whether you decide to store your boat inside or outside; much care is needed to protect your boat’s engine.

Here are some basic steps to winterize your marine engine and equipment:

• Fill the fuel tanks and add the appropriate amount of stabilizer. Run the engine long enough to get treated gas into the fuel line and engine. Left untreated over the winter, gasoline deteriorates into varnish and gum, making starting difficult.
• Flush the cooling system. (Flushing kits are available from boat dealers.) Also remove block plugs and drain all the water from inboard and inboard outdrive engines. This cleans out accumulated sediment and rust flakes. Pump in anti-freeze to avoid trapped ice pockets. Use an environmentally safe product to avoid contaminating the marine environment.
• Fog the engine with oil to prevent rust. Available in bulk or aerosol cans, fogging oil is formulated to stick to the cylinders and not slide down the walls. Follow the instructions that come with the product making sure to spray some of the oil into the cylinders through the sparkplug holes once the engine has cooled down. Check the spark plugs and replace them as necessary.
• Replace the oil and oil filter on inboard and inboard outdrive engines. Be sure to dispose of the used oil at an authorized recycling center.
• Change the lower unit gearcase lubricant on outboards and inboard/outdrive engines. Even a little water trapped in the gearcase can cause damage, especially if allowed to freeze.
• Check the props for nicks. Even slight damage can hinder performance. Worse yet, blade damage can cause vibration, damaging other engine parts and the drive system. Some damaged props can be repaired by marine dealers for a fraction of the cost of a new one.
• Store outboards in an upright position. Consider having the water pump impeller replaced every two or three years. The rubber legs can get stiff, reducing water circulation, or they may break off, eliminating coolant flow completely.
• Spray a moisture displacing lubricant such as a silicone product onto electrical terminals and the fuse panel. Read the label to make sure the spray is safe for use on electrical components.
• Inspect steering systems, including tiller steering friction fittings on outboards. Tighten them if they're loose.
• Clean the backfire flame arrester on inboard engines with carburetor cleaner.
• Clean boats inside and out and cover when stored, even indoors. Allow for air circulation under the cover to prevent mildew.
• Drain water from the bilges and leave the transom drain plug out. It's a good idea to place a reminder note in a conspicuous place to avoid embarrassment at the boat ramp next spring.
• Hang life jackets up where they can air out.
• Examine trailer tires and grease the wheel bearings, replacing them as necessary. Check bulbs and electrical contacts on the plugs as well as sockets where the bulbs screw in. Spray contacts with a moisture displacing lubricant and wrap electrical tape around the plugs to keep them dry.
• Put the trailer on blocks and remove the tires to prolong rubber life and hinder boat thieves.
• Check the owners manual for tips that are particular to your own brand of boat, engine and trailer.
  
  
  If you are not comfortable winterizing your boat’s engine, please contact us and schedule your boat’s winterization with one of our qualified marine technicians. Taking time now to get your boat and motor ready for winter means that you can be one of the first boaters out on the water in the spring.
  
  

2013 Clearance - Guaranteed Lowest Prices

We have clearance priced ALL of our 2013 in stock inventory of boats! 

We are ready to deal. This is your best opportunity to purchase the new boat you have been thinking about at a price that no other dealer can beat. 

We will not be undersold. We guarantee the absolute lowest prices on any of our 2013 in stock inventory.  

Don't miss out on this opportunity! The boat of your dreams is waiting. 

Winter Storage Special

Want to get your boat out of the elements for the winter and into a secured environment? 

At Sinclair Marina, your boat will be winterized to protect it from freezing temperatures, washed and stored inside for up to 6 months in our secured facility. 

Don't delay! Only a limited number of slip sizes are available. 

Call Tim at 478-451-0167 extension 5 for details and to schedule a drop off.

It's Time To Winterize

As Autumn begins and the end of another great boating season approaches, it pays to take care of any potential issues and dealer maintenance in the fall, before your boat is clutched by winter's icy grip. "This winter is shaping up to be a rough one," says Janice Stillman, editor of The Old Farmer's Almanac. According to the newest edition, a decline in solar activity combined with ocean-atmosphere patterns in the Pacific and Atlantic will result in below-normal temperatures during most of the winter across much of the United States.

Why Winterize?

Winter weather can wreak havoc on a boat that's not properly prepared for freezing temperatures and harsh conditions. Comprehensive winterization is critical to maintaining the life, performance and value of your boat.

Why Now?

Just one hard freeze can cause irreparable harm. Don't get caught off guard by the quick Autumn cold snap! Any damage may not show itself until Spring, our service department's busiest time.

Call our Service Team at 478-451-0167 extension 4 to schedule your winterization before October 15th to receive 10% off.  Good on all makes and models of boats and personal watercraft. Offer not valid with any other discounts or coupons.  Excludes service call fee.

Do You Know Matt?

Meet your guide - Matt Henry. He's been bass fishing competitively since 1999, when he was just 11 years old.  Fishing has been a part of his life since he was a young boy learning techniques used by his father.  Matt joined the Junior Bass Busters, the first youth bass club established in Georgia, based out of Conyers in 1999.  He fished with the youth club until he graduated high school in 2006.  In that time frame he won (3) Georgia Junior State Championships, and fished in (3) Junior World Championships where he represented the State of Georgia.  

After high school, Matt went on to college at Georgia College & State University where he founded the Georgia College Bass Fishing Team.  He served as team president for multiple years and had many great tournament finishes throughout his college career.  Matt’s childhood dream was to become a full time pro fisherman one day and he is currently making those dreams come true.  He is now fishing the pro side of the FLW Outdoors BFL (Bass Fishing League) and many other local and regional tournaments.   When Matt is not fishing a tournament or out on the lake guiding, he likes to volunteer his time by giving back to youth fishing programs.

Tournament Highlights:
1st Place HD Marine Trail March 2009 Lake Sinclair, GA
1st Place Georgia Southern Collegiate Trail March 2010 Lake Sinclair, GA
8th Place Boat U. S. Collegiate Nationals May 2010 Lake Lewisville, TX
1st Place BFL Bulldog Super Tournament August 2010 Lake Oconee, GA
1st Place BFL Bulldog Division May 2011 Lake Eufaula, AL
1st Place Berry’s Trail December 2011 Lake Sinclair, GA
1st Place Georgia Southern Collegiate Trail April 2012 West Point Lake, GA
1st Place Berry’s Trail May 2012 Lake Oconee, GA
1st Place Berry’s Trail Angler of the Year (2011-2012 Season) Points Champion

Are you ready to go out on the lake?

What The Tracker Brand Has To Offer

In 1978, Bass Pro Shops' founder Johnny Morris revolutionized the boating industry when he introduced the first fully rigged boat, motor and trailer package on the market. More than 30 years later, that tradition of excellence and innovation is found in every model in the Tracker Marine Group lineup. 

Whether you're searching for your first fishing boat or upgrading the family fun boat, rest assured your boat is crafted to provide you and your family years of quality experiences on the water. Explore what our brands have to offer through the links below.

Click here to learn more about Tracker Boats.

Click here to learn more about Sun Tracker Pontoons.

Click here to learn more about Nitro Bass Boats.

Click here to learn more about Tahoe Boats.

Click here to learn more about Mako Boats.

Now that you've had a chance to see what the Tracker brand has to offer, how can we help you get on the water? Whether you're looking for your next fishing boat, runabout, or pontoon, we can help!