Boating Laws in Florida: Fishing
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission proceeds from permits and licenses are used to help improve Florida’s fisheries and your overall fishing experience. Both saltwater and freshwater fishing licenses are required, and can be obtained online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, at county tax collectors’ offices, through licensed agents or by calling 888-FISH FLORIDA. Florida residents who are […]
Boating Laws in Florida: The Basics
Boating Laws in Florida: The Basics A violation of the Federal Navigation Rules is also a violation of Florida law. So just to be safe, here are the basics of Florida Boating Law… Anyone born after January 1, 1998, must pass an approved boater safety course and carry that card plus a photo ID when […]
Low-tech, Tried and True Boat Gadgets
It’s difficult not to get caught up in the excitement that cool, new boating gadgets can create, but most often it is a low-tech, tried and true gadget that will save you a bunch of grief and heartache on your boating expedition. Here are just a few examples… Ok, so your phone may be high-tech, […]
Boat Covers, Boat Seat Covers and Boat Electronics Covers: the Basics
Ever plan a nice day out on the water with a bunch of friends…or maybe you’re trying to impress the in-laws with a leisurely boat ride down the Intracoastal Waterway…and when you get to the marina, you realize that your boat is a filthy mess? I can’t even begin to imagine your mother-in-law’s summer whites […]
2019 New and Used Inventory at Gerry’s Marina
Gerry’s Marina is raising eyebrows with our new and preowned boat inventory for 2019! Come check us out! These are just some of the boatalicious items we have in store… When it comes to used boats, we carry everything from Carolina Skiffs that are warrantied until 2022 and come with Magic Tilt trailers; to Bennington […]
Why Drinking While Driving a Boat Is a Bad Idea
If you are drinking and driving, even the tiniest amounts of alcohol can contribute to an accident, so even if your blood alcohol level isn’t off the charts, you can suffer from: Impaired judgement and coordination – which are crucial to safe driving Reduced perception/compromised assessment of situations and hazards Slowed reaction time – up […]
What Do You Do if You Fall off Your Boat?
We are all familiar with the old flip flop soft shoe routine across a slippery, wet boat deck. Fishing boat decks can get greasy from bait and, if we are lucky, fish slime. Even recreational boats that are not used for fishing can quickly get wet and slippery. It’s easy to lose your footing in […]
Becoming a Boat Owner Involves Research
There are a lot of variables when buying a boat, so it is best to do your due diligence. Check your facts, dot your I’s and cross your T’s. First you want to make sure you shop for the best type of boat for you – from sport fishers, to center consoles, pontoons and more. […]
Purchasing a New Boat vs. a Pre-owned Boat
In the market for a boat, but not sure whether you should buy new or used? There are great arguments for each, and Gerry’s Marina can help you make the right decision for you. Gerry’s Marina, meeting Central Florida’s boating needs for over 23 years, is THE place to go for an enormous selection of […]
What Fish You Can Expect to Catch in Florida Waters
With deep water just off the coast and hundreds of miles of river that is home to a thriving ecosystem, Florida is a fisherman’s dream come true. Florida’s Intracoastal Waterway encompasses some of the state’s most productive waterways. Abundant with mangroves and weed lines, it attracts bait species such as menhaden, shrimp and crabs…and great […]
Sport Fishing in New Smyrna Beach
Ever taste fresh Mahi that was cooked on a cedar plank? You don’t even have to do much to it to make it a mouthwatering morsel. Maybe you like to catch fish more than you like to eat them. Either way, if you are in New Smyrna Beach, you are in luck. Sport fishing is […]
Exploring the Islands of New Smyrna Beach
With literally miles and miles of parkland, beachside shopping and dining, a wide array of historical sites to see, and marine life and activities out the wahzoo, New Smyrna Beach is one of the most desirable vacation destinations in the country, but that is not all it offers. The majestic beach town of New Smyrna […]
Florida Corals and How to Protect Them
Think of coral reefs as the rain forests of the sea. They support an extensive biodiversity of fish, invertebrates and sea mammals – an estimated 25% of all marine life! Home to over 1 million diverse aquatic species, coral reefs produce food and billions of dollars in tourism. They hold potential treatments for many of […]
What You Will See While Snorkeling in Florida
Sparkling, crystal clear water, picturesque bottom structure reminiscent of the finest roman architecture and thousands of species of sea creatures make Florida one of the absolute best choices for snorkeling. Florida’s waters are simply teaming with marine life. It’s a virtual symphony of color and movement. If you are wondering what you will see while […]
What to Pack if You Plan to Sleep on Your Boat
Ah, the wonders of boat sleepovers, but don’t be mistaken…there can be perils too. We are land creatures, so when on the sea, we are out of our natural element. Everything can go very smoothly as long as we play it safe. To best enjoy overnighting on your boat, just remember – “safety first”. Make […]
St. Johns: A Brief History
At 310 miles long, the St. Johns River is Florida’s longest river and one of the few that flows north. The fishing options here are diverse, and the moving water resulting from seasonal rainfall stimulates feeding. Stretching half the length of this beautiful state, it is one of Florida’s greatest locales for bass fishing. Year […]
Blue Springs: A History
Framed by picturesque oak trees and discharging an historical average of 165 million gallons of water each day, Blue Springs is the largest spring on the St. John’s River. The spring run flows approximately 1,050 feet through hardwood and palm forest to the St. John. Timucuan Indians made the Blue Springs area their home until […]
Abandoned Towns along Florida Waterways
Florida’s subtropical beauty and allure have inspired and demolished dreams for centuries. In fact, Florida has earned the title of the state with the most ghost towns east of the Mississippi…upwards of 240. Let’s give you just a little taste, shall we? Perky Ghost Town, R.C. Perky’s ill-fated 1920s investment in a bankrupt sponge farm, […]
Pontoon Boats: The Perfect Party Boat
Florida offers one of the world’s best places to enjoy the water – from the ocean, to the gorgeous Intracoastal Waterway, to peaceful lakes, rivers and lagoons…and pontoon boats are a great way to get you and a bunch of other people there! Pontoons make particularly great party boats because they are so roomy. The […]
Perfect Weather Conditions for Boating
Ever see some dark clouds, hear thunder in the distance or feel the breeze begin to pick up and wonder “weather” you should still go boating as planned? It’s always a good idea to error on the side of caution when it comes to weather and boating. Always take shelter as quickly as possible in […]
Boating Laws and Manatees
In Florida, approximately 25 to 30 percent of manatee deaths are attributed to watercraft. These gentle giants, which are at risk of becoming extinct, are protected by rules established by the Fish and Wildlife Commission. When coming into contact with manatees while boating, the best policy is to look, but don’t touch. Interaction with manatees […]
There Is So Much to Do in New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach, known for its small town charm and beachside appeal, hosts some truly remarkable events… The Annual Festival of the Arts, with fabulous art displays by over 230 talented artists, live music, a student art exhibit, a creative education tent, food court and more, is held every January. Get your groove on for […]
Florida’s Best Spots for River Fishing
Whether you are freshwater or saltwater fishing, Florida is one of the world’s top fishing destinations. Florida offers some of the largest rivers and lakes in our country, and a whole pile of trophy fish just waiting to be caught. Here are just a few of Florida’s best spots for river fishing: Indian River Lagoon […]
Daytona Beach Events
Daytona Beach is world famous for its beautiful beaches and its action-packed events! If you are a race fan, you probably think of the Daytona International Speedway as the Taj Mahal of racing venues. If you aren’t necessarily a NASCAR enthusiast and you visit the recently renovated home to the Daytona 500, you just may […]
Basic Boating Terminology
What’s in a name? A lot if you are a boater. The language used by boaters can sometimes seem foreign. Let’s see what we can do about that. Here are some of the main terms you may need to know if you are boating: Aft or Abaft – toward the back of boat Stern – […]
If it has to do with boats, Gerry’s Marina either has it or does it!
Load up that cooler with mile-high sandwiches, refreshing beverages…and lots of bait! It’s time to hook that monster catch. Or maybe just head out for some clamming or crabbing. That is great family fun! Take a relaxing cruise to your favorite restaurant, or break out those inflatable tubes and water skis! It’s definitely time for […]
Boating Tips
Safety first! The most important tips for boating are safety tips. First of all, since the major cause of drowning is not wearing a life jacket, it is a REALLY good idea to wear one when you are boating. Also, if you are going to spend time around the water, it is best if you […]
Florida Speed and Boating Regulations
Any law enforcement officer may stop a vessel at any time to check for boating safety equipment compliance, so besides the fact that the required equipment is imperative for the safe operation of a boat, you want to adhere to all regulations to stay out of trouble… All vessels are required to have a personal […]
Watch Out for Manatees
Manatees are peaceful aquatic mammals that paddle with flippers and can measure up to 13 feet and weigh up to 1,200 pounds. They are slow moving – typically about three to five miles per hour, and they sleep submerged half the day – only surfacing to breath every 20 minutes or so. The lazy buggers […]
Safety First!
Boating is great fun, but it is important for us to respect the water. There are a few simple safety measures that should be put into place that will help us continue to enjoy our fun as safely as possible: First and foremost, there should always be a life jacket for each person on the […]
Buying a Used Boat in Florida
Purchasing a used boat anywhere is a big deal. There’s a lot to consider. In Florida, where boats are everywhere and the options are endless, it is an even bigger deal. Gerry’s Marina, can help you navigate those troubled waters. We have been meeting Central Florida’s boating needs for over 23 years, and we are […]
A Boatload of Florida Boating Events!
Florida is well known for being a boating and fishing oasis, so it is no wonder that it is host to so many terrific boating events throughout the year. The Florida Sportsman Fishing Expo was held in February in Fort Myers this year. There are also a slew of annual boat shows. Some of the […]
Boating in Florida
From new or pre-owned sport fishers, to center consoles, pontoons, whalers and jet skis, Florida is one of the best places in the world to own a boat. It is a virtual boating and fishing paradise. You can take a nice easy cruise down the scenic Intracoastal Waterway, tube down peaceful rivers, pull up to […]
Now Is the Best Time to Buy a Boat
Late fall and winter are the best time of year to buy a boat – a time when sellers lower their prices to move inventory…a real buyers’ market. There are a few things you want to make sure of when you are purchasing your boat. First and foremost, you should buy your boat from a […]
The Best Party Boats
Are you ready to party? Then you need to check out the pontoon boats at Gerry’s Marina in New Smyrna Beach. Pontoons are the best party boats around! First of all, they are roomy – so roomy that they can hold 10-15 people, so they are excellent for a party full of friends. Roomy boats […]
2017 Events for New Smyrna Beach
Everyone loves a good outing – from a party to a parade. In New Smyrna Beach, we are particularly fond of great events, and what better place to hold them than our charming, beachside town? After spectacular fireworks in honor of the New Year, New Smyrna Beach will host the 41st Annual Festival of the […]
Gerry’s Thanks New Smyrna Beach Boat Parade Participants
Gerry’s Marina in New Smyrna Beach would like to thank everyone who participated in the 2016 Christmas Boat Parade. It was a dazzling spectacle full of sparkling lights and Christmas magic. New Smyrna Beach boaters definitely pulled out all the stops. Following our traditional parade through the Waterfront Loop along Canal Street’s Historic District – […]
Boats and Motors – Size Matters!
It all comes down to the age old adage, “Size matters,” but, when it comes to boats and motors, does the person with the biggest toys win? Not necessarily. The winner is the one who gets the right size boat and motor for their particular desires. It’s important to make certain the size of the […]
Understanding Fresh Water vs. Salt Water in Our Area
Located between the Atlantic Ocean and Indian River (which is part of a 3,000 mile Intracoastal water system), New Smyrna Beach is a fisherman’s dream. While the angling options are endless both inshore and off, the lines between fresh water and salt water can become a little blurred here. On the northern end, you’ll find […]
New Smyrna Beach Christmas Parade
The holidays are coming, and there is no better way to celebrate than with a parade…and when it comes to Christmas parades, New Smyrna Beach pulls out all the stops. Prepare to be dazzled by the spectacular sights and sounds of the holiday season! The theme of this year’s annual New Smyrna Beach Christmas parade […]
