Best Times of Year for Crab, Lobster, and Tuna Fishing

A fisherman always wants to learn the best time to head out for a successful excursion. Lobster, crab, and tuna are all popular in Nova Scotia. Understanding when to rent a charter or head out alone will bring the best results. 

Lobster Fishing

Lobster boats are always on the water off the coast of Maine. However, lobster fishing peaks two times each year; in late summer and December. Canada accounts for over half the world's lobster supply. Many people rent lobster boats in summer as well. This time is synonymous for catching soft-shell varieties.

Crab Fishing

Crabbing season is open all year around, but certain areas may have restrictions concerning the dates and times crab boats can depart. Since mating season occurs in late summer and early fall, crabs are more active and easier to catch. The best time to go crabbing on the shore is when the tide is high.

Bluefin Tuna Fishing

Canada is considered "The Tuna Capital of the World." Giant Bluefin are common catches. Usually, tuna begins showing up in mid-summer and remains until late October, so this is the most common window to see tuna boats in the area. The only unpredictable factor is the fickle fall weather.

Canada is a wonderful place to fish for lobster, crab, and tuna. Knowing when the peak seasons occur will help a fisherman enjoy a large catch. Make arrangements early to hit the water at the right time.

Canadian Boat Firm Set to Branch Out From Its Home in the Maritimes

People who make their living on the water need solid and dependable vessels with which they can ply their trade. Aside from general seaworthiness, such vessels must be outfitted with reliable communications gear, up-to-date fishing tackle and proper lifesaving equipment. Even people who use their boats for pleasure fishing should have safe, well-equipped boats.

In producing vessels of such uncompromising quality, Dixon's Marine, which was founded in 1981 by former commercial fisherman Gary Dixon, lays the keels of all the fishing boats it sells by hand. The company also focuses its high-powered attention to detail on all aspects of construction. Because of a combination of Dixon's Marine’s commitment to such high standards and its desire to expand into the international market, the Canadian government has, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, lent it CA$175,000, both for the expansion and general upgrades to its production facilities.

The company has fishing boats for sale from 11-15 meters long; the larger boats are more popular in international locations, such as the United States. The company has plans to build new models of up to 19 meters in size, and the loan from ACOA has allowed it to purchase hauling equipment that will enable it to deliver boats that large anywhere in North America.

The Benefits of Choosing Dixon's Marine for Commercial Boat Sales and Service

When you need to store, buy or fix commercial fishing boats, it's crucial to select a well-equipped boatyard that you trust. We can give you at least four major reasons to choose Dixon's Marine: 

• Our company has more than three decades of experience in this industry. Its owner worked as a fisherman before he started the business. We hire knowledgeable employees who fully understand the needs of Canadian and American fishermen.
• Our skilled craftsmen construct durable custom boats that meet your specific requirements. Depending on your needs, we can build a hull, a bare-bones vessel or a fully equipped fishing boat. Acceptable sizes range from 36 to 65 feet.
• Dixon's Marine offers a variety of affordable repair, maintenance and reconditioning services. If you experience sudden mechanical problems, we'll fix your boat at any hour. Our technicians know how to repair vessels in a highly efficient manner.
• Customers can depend on Dixon's Marine to build reliable boats and perform lasting repairs. The Better Business Bureau accredited our boatyard in 1988. Our company's longevity and satisfied customers have helped us earn an A+ rating from this venerable institution.

You can find Dixon's Marine by traveling to Lower Woods Harbour, a village on Nova Scotia's southern coast. To contact us for a free quote, please dial 902-723-2878 or 888-569-6342. Our friendly staff will be glad to assist you.

Dixon's Marine's Newest Launch - Treigh's Pride

The Treigh's Pride may appear conventional at first glance, but it bears a number of features that set it apart from other custom fishing boats. Unlike many boats, this sleek, 44-foot vessel is fully updated with the latest in wheelhouse technology, incorporating an open layout that devotes ample consideration to the comfort of its pilot and crew. 

At the stern, an adjustable rig serves as the ideal mounting point for trap reels, trawling nets and everything else you'll need to harvest the sea's bounty. Above the wheelhouse, an array of antennae and other sensors ensure that you can navigate with ease in almost any conditions. Designed for private use as well as large-scale industrial ventures, the Treigh's Pride unifies the best in boat design from a range of time-honored traditions.

In addition to navigation equipment, we've equipped the Treigh's Pride with a full complement of related electronics and control systems. This is truly a boat whose pilot is always in the know about what's going on, and because we've paid so much attention to the small details, its crew never have to go out of their way to stay informed. With a 479 hp C-18 engine, a 26-foot beam and a host of support hardware that make piloting a pleasure, the Treigh's Pride is ideal for tough jobs and the fishermen that take them on.

Protect Your Yacht - Winterization Ideas and Techniques

Ready or not, Old Man Winter is here, knocking at your bulkhead hatch. While there are still a few weeks of fall left to enjoy hitting the water, the warm weather and another boating season has ended. It also means that now is the time to think about what you need to winterize your yacht and boats for sports fishing.

Proper winterization helps you avoid costly damages to your yacht. It also extends the life of its engine by protecting components from freezing and corrosion. Winterizing also allows for a quick turnaround come spring, which means you can hit the water as soon as Mother Nature allows.

Weather you live in a cold winter state or in a warmer climate, it is important to winterize. Take these protective measures and your boat will be in ship-shape condition when it's time to get back in the water.

 

Park It

If you live in a state with frigid temperatures, onshore boat storage is necessary. If you live in a warmer climate, you have options. However, a properly stored hull is less likely to develop blisters than a hull that remains in the water.

Onshore Boat Care

• Pressure wash the hull to remove all dirt, scum, and barnacles. Then check the hull for blisters that require attention.
• Open seacocks to allow any water to drain.
• Disconnect and remove batteries and store these at home in a cool dry room. Be sure to charge them every 30 to 60 days.
• Make certain your yacht has acceptable hull support.

During Hibernation

• Do a clean sweep - open and clean the pantry, refrigerator and freezer, and wipe out drawers and lockers. Turn cushions up to allow air to circulate. Clean carpets and scrub down wood and vinyl surfaces. Install a dehumidifier or use commercial odor and moisture-absorbing products.
• Protect your vessel - dismount electronics and other valuables and removal all flammables.
• Keep it clean - clean bilges and drain any existing water. Once clean, spray with a moisture displacing lubricant and add a touch of environmentally-friendly antifreeze to prevent any water from freezing.
• Winterize the engine - pull the cover and examine the engine for problems like frayed or loose wires, connections, and clamps. Then, replace the old gear oil with fresh oil, and change the oil filters. If your engine uses coolant, drain the current fluid and replace it with propylene glycol based antifreeze.
• Fill ‘er up - top-off your fuel tank.
• Get rid of water - Check water systems and pump holding tanks. Completely drain the fresh water tank and hot water heater. Pump out the holding tank at an approved facility.

It's a wrap

• Keep it covered - whether you are storing your yacht inside or outdoors, your vessel must be protected. To ensure this, a secure boat cover is essential.

Saltwater Fishing - Getting Hooked and Getting Started

Before you launch, there are things you need to know about sport fishing. Water adventure is kind of our thing, so let us give you some tips and tricks from our own experience fishing aboard commercial crab boats that will give you the what, where, when and how so you can reel-in a big one.

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Saltwater fishing is an entirely different experience than freshwater fishing. Bass and walleye have nothing on the power of some of the greatest fighting fish like tuna and marlin. These saltwater champions really put up a fight! Here's what you need to know to get started on your coastal angling adventure.

Step 1 - Learn from an expert. Practice your skills on a chartered boat with an experienced staff that can assist you in baiting, reeling and knotting, amongst other techniques.

Step 2 - Know your knots. The best way to ensure you don't lose that next world record fish is to be sure you're using the right knot. Practice these skills, as well as casting and baiting, on dry land.

Step 3 - Planning makes perfect. The old saying: 90 percent of the fish are in 10% of the water is true! Picking the best spot and time of day makes all the difference in saltwater fishing. Phases of the moon, position of the sun, wind and weather all have a huge effect on fish migration patterns.

Step 4 - Research the area. Talk to local tackle shop employees and angler to find out what's going on in the area and what the best bait to use is at the time of year you plan to fish. Also, work to understand tides, currents, and weather as well as how these forces affect your target fish.

Step 5 - Learn how to spot fish. Catching a big one while saltwater fishing requires tactic and that includes knowing where to find the fish. Beachfront locations with holes, pockets, and reefs are often the best places to go for saltwater fishing.

Step 6 - Protect your investment. Good saltwater fishing tackle isn't cheap and saltwater is highly corrosive. Be certain you take proper care when you return from your fishing excursion. 

Dixon's Marine's Newest Launch - Josie & Justin

Ready to get your sea legs on a vessel that's just as eager as you are to tackle the briny deep? The Josie & Justin was designed specifically for those who ply the seas as a way of life. Unlike many other commercial fishing boats, its planners didn't forget about the sheer pleasure of making a voyage in a craft that works with you instead of fighting every step of the way. That's why this boat is ultimately responsive and reactive to your every command. 

Take the helm of our newest boat launch, and master the waves with a 425 hp John Deere engine driving you forward at a fair clip. Whether you're in a fierce competition to reach the best spots before they’re played out or you've simply got a lot of traps to haul in before the day is done, this powerhouse will put you exactly where you need to be.

The Josie & Justin accommodates serious crews on critical missions. With 27 feet of width and 49' 11" from bow to stern, you've got plenty of room for your gear, your shipmates and anything else you need to get the toughest jobs done the right way. Load up, and get down to work by getting in touch with a Dixon's Marine's specialist now.

Dixon's Marine Group Tuna Boats Featured on National Geographic's Wicked Tuna

Dixon's Marine Group has had the honor of having its boat Hot Tuna featured on the National Geographic program Wicked Tuna. The program showcases the highly competitive natural of the bluefin tuna fishing industry in Massachusetts. A dwindling population of the desirable type of tuna has forced fishermen to use cutthroat tactics to get ahead of the competition. 

One way that the crew of the Hot Tuna has been able to stay near the top throughout each bluefin tuna season is by using a custom-built, durable boat that is built for fishing. Captain TJ Ott leads the crew of the largest of the tuna boats showcased on Wicked Tuna.

Dixon's Marine Group designs and builds high-quality fishing and recreational boats in Nova Scotia. The desirable designs created by the family-owned business have drawn in customers from around the world. Representatives make it a point to discuss the needs of each customer one-on-one to ensure that the finished boat meets and exceeds all expectations.

The Hot Tuna is just one of the tuna boats designed and built by Dixon's Marine Group. All of the custom fishing vessels that are part of the company's fleet have been built to withstand the weather and waves while allowing fisherman to get up close and personal to their next catch.

It Takes More Than a Good Lobster Boat to Bring Home a Catch

Day in and day out Lobstermen take to the seas with their boats loaded down with traps, but at the end of the day it takes more than a good lobster boat to haul in a catch. The Gulf of Maine is home to some of the highest populations of American lobster (Homarus americanus) anywhere on the planet. The bounty of the gulf has provided income for generations of lobstermen, as well as delicious meals for countless people.

Operating a profitable lobster boat takes more than setting out a few stringers of traps and hoping for the best. A good lobsterman knows where to look to find lobsters. The strategic placement of traps and selection of bait is key to hauling in a good catch. Having an experienced crew is also important, since knowing what to do and when to do it not only saves times, but reduces the chances of injuries.

The lobster boat itself can also contribute to the speed at which traps can be set or hauled in. Having reliable equipment is a big part of it. Older boats can run into problems with equipment breaking down, contributing to less time on the water, or the constant need for repairs while out at sea.  

At Dixon’s Marine Group, we develop lobster boats that lobstermen can rely on. We work with our customers to design and build boats that have all the features they need to get the job done, no matter what Mother Nature throws at them. For more information visit DixonsMarine.com! 

Tips for Buying a Sportfishing Yacht

So you’re hooked on saltwater fishing and you want to invest in a boat that is at home on the ocean? We’ve got some helpful tips that will point you in the right direction when it comes to purchasing a sportfishing yacht.

Account for Expenses

The cost of owning a sportfishing yacht is more than the sticker price on the boat. Keep in mind the ongoing expenses associated with owning the vessel. From ongoing maintenance, to docking fees and insurance, there are other expenses that need to be figured into your boat budget, otherwise you’ll be in for a surprise down the road.

Power Considerations

There’s nothing worse than an underpowered boat. It’s important to account for the power needs. It’s always better to err on the side of too much power, but you shouldn’t overlook fuel economy and range. If the boat can’t reach the fish, and make it back to shore, you’re going to have some very unhappy fishermen.

Size Matters

Offshore fishing can be unpredictable at times. Having an extra 3 feet can make a big difference when you’re battling against the foaming seas.

Storage Rules

Having adequate storage is important on any boat, but if you’re fishing offshore, especially on a multi-day excursion, you’ll want to be sure there is plenty of space for supplies and your catch.

Don’t Skimp on Seating

Let’s face it. A lot of the time spent out on the water isn’t just fishing. You and your crew need a place to sit comfortably while you’re running, trolling or relaxing. You can never go wrong having extra seating options.

Account for Electronics

A boat is a big investment. If you want to enjoy it for many years to come, it’s best to ensure you have room for electronics if you want to expand or upgrade. From LCD display screens to VHF and GPS antennas there is only so much room to fit these specialized pieces of equipment.

The Advantages of Owning Fiberglass Fishing Boats

For thousands of years, fishermen all over the world relied on wooden boats to haul in their catch. Over the years technological advances have lead to boats being made from alternate materials like metals or fiberglass. While every construction material has its own unique advantages, today we will be looking exclusively at fiberglass. What makes fiberglass fishing boats so popular these days and what are the advantages of owning one?

Cost  - Expense is always a factor in making a purchase, in the case of fiberglass boats, they can be more expensive upfront, but save money in the long run. The cost of maintain a fiberglass hull is typically less expensive. Repairs can be done quickly and seamlessly. There is no need for the same ongoing painting, sanding, or patching associated with a wooden or metal vessel.

Looks – Fiberglass boats are known for their clean lines. Their hulls are designed to be smooth and seamless so they can slice the water rather than plowing through it. Fiberglass cabins can have details built right in, eliminating the need for extra cabinets and hardware. 

Reliability – If you want a boat that is ready to go when you are, a fiberglass boat should fit the bill. For the most part these vessels can be kept in the water for months at a time without the worry of aquatic life attaching itself. These boats are also notoriously buoyant and fuel efficient.