Introduction to Dock Floats for Boat Docks

Dock Flotation (dock floats, float drums) can be defined as any device used in the construction of a boat dock that allows it to float on top of a body of water.

A floating dock will move up and down with water levels, contrary to a standing dock that is built on stilts which does not ever move. Most boat docks that are built on a water source connected to a dam are floating docks due to the effect dams have on water levels. When the dam opens up, water levels can drop several feet and if your boat dock is floating, it will lower down along with the water level.

In the mid-1900's, dock floats looked much different then how they look today. There were three primary types: styrofoam blocks, metal pontoons, and barrels. For many reasons, these primitive floating devices are now obsolete and are outlawed in most US states. Over the years styrofoam became hazardous to the environment, polluting lakes with small foam pieces that broke off little by little over time. Metal pontoons and barrels are hollow, so when punctured docks began to sink rapidly. Also, barrels that where once used to house chemicals were being re-purposed as dock flotation and started leaking deadly chemicals into our water source. Eventually the "encapsulated dock float" was developed and replaced all forms of dock flotation.

Introduction to Marine Anchor Shackles

Screw Pin Anchor Shackles come in two types: Galvanized Steel and Stainless Steel. Galvanized steel is less expensive but can only be used around freshwater and it's lifespan is lower than stainless. Stainless steel is necessary around salt water because it's better suited to withstand corrosion. Stainless steel can be used around any body of water and has a longer lifespan than galvanized steel. Anchor shackles come in different designs, but HarborWare carries the bow-shaped variety.

5 Best Species to Fish this Fall

Discover Boating has suggested the best fish to go after on your next fall fishing trip. While most people don't consider fall the best time to fish, especially if you live up north where it starts snowing before Halloween, you'll be pleasantly surprised of the benefits. For some species, depending on where you live, the fall is actually better than fishing in the spring and summer. At the very least, you'll have less competition on the water since less people fish in the colder seasons.

4 Unbelievable Ways Fishing Can Help You Get Fit, By TakeMeFishing

For those who think fishing is a passive sport that doesn’t involve much beyond baiting a hook and making a cast, you may want to think again. Fishing is exercise and can help you build strength in a number of different ways. Keep in mind that any time you are on a boat, your muscles are continually working against the waves to stabilize your body.