Firstmate Controls

Many of us are chomping at the bit to get out on the water. If you're anything like us, we're thinking boating season may have to start a little early this year! So in an effort to get you prepped to get out on the water this coming spring,  Firstmate Controls  wants to make sure you and your boat are ready to hit the water. As long-time boaters and  wireless marine electronic experts , we know the struggles of boating mishaps that can take place if you don't properly prepare and maintain your boat before going out on the water. To avoid some of the common problems that boaters run into every year, we've put together a list of things that you should do before taking your boat out for the first time. Inspect for Damage Your boat may have taken on some damage since the last time you used it, so inspect the hull and all other parts of your boat thoroughly. If you've taken your boat through shallow waters, there's a chance that some of its components may have

One of America's favorite pastimes is hitting the water, casting a line and waiting for that big catch. And winter is the perfect time for crappie fishing. In the spirit of getting out on the water this winter, Firstmate Controls is sharing with you some winter crappie fishing tips to help you catch your limit in no time. Take a look: Find the Hidey-Holes Crappie feed heavily in cold waters, and once you locate their preferred spot, you can anchor and easily catch your limit. The trick, however, is finding that sweet spot. Once water temperature falls, they can usually be found grouped together near boat docks, trees, stumps and brush piles. Crappie also generally stay in deeper waters during the winter, although they will move to shallower water if there is a string of warm days. If you’re using a depth finder, concentrate on the deepest areas. Follow the Shad Although you’ll catch more crappie near underwater structures such as brush piles and standing timber, the trophy

Not everyone has the luxury of having their boat dock sitting in a quiet, calm cove. Many of us have our docks out in the open where they are subjected to rough waters from other boat wakes and weather causing water to swell and become rough. That doesn't mean we can't be proactive in preventing against damage.  Firstmate Controls  has some tips on how you can prevent damage to your boat, dock, and lift! Properly Securing Your Dock will Prevent Expensive Damage Rough waters can cause a number of problems on the water, especially to docks. That's why it's so important to regularly inspect your dock for any potential repairs needed. What may seem like a small issue at the time could turn into a huge and costly problem down the road. The last thing you want is to get a call from your neighbors saying your dock is floating downstream. Make sure to check the hardware on your dock and the cables securing your dock to land periodically and replace anything that is damaged

There is without a doubt, no better accessory to have for your boat lift than a  boat lift remote control  system. With the many advantages it provides, investing in a boat lift remote control will be your most favorite purchase of all.  Firstmate Controls  has some of the best electronic marine equipment around. Let us give you some examples of the advantages of owning Firstmate products for your boat lift control needs. Why put in all this work?  Consider the efforts that you put into launching and docking your boat anytime you want to go out on the water. You've got to lower the boat from the dock, and then climb on-board while the boat is swaying back and forth from the waves. You've got to pull your boat out and moor it while you climb back off the boat to go raise the lift back up. Then you have to climb back in your boat without falling in the water. And guess what, you've got to do this whole crazy and time consuming dance all over again after a long day out