I guess that by now many of you anglers in Cyprus have seen, heard, read about or even given mechanical jigging a try.
Mechanical jigging is really making an impression in Cyprus recently and the market has been flooded with all types of the latest and greatest specialist jigging rods, reels, jigs and terminal tackle.
This is great for fanatics like me, but often it leaves the average “weekend fish-hunter” wondering from where to start.
This is the first part of a jigging guide we are putting together to help answer a lot of your questions. It aims to give you a better understanding of this method of fishing from start to finish. In this section we will be covering the basic techniques involved in mechanical jigging, and discuss the rods and reels required.
Ok, so you decided on a first boat. Since you can afford it you are going with a new 18 ft that can come either with Inboard / outboard or outboard engine. Which one is best?
4 stroke outboard advantages
- they are quiet
- they are fuel efficient
- they are easy to maintain
- they are pretty much maintenance free
- they are reliable
Inboard / Outboard’s biggest advantage is that you don’t really see the engine. If you are a big water sports person – inboard / outboard typically are more powerful and you can get the extended swim platform.
- They are less fuel efficient
- Just as loud if not louder with outboard engines
- Need more maintenance so in the long run you will spend more on repairs – biggest areas of concern are the starter and the exhaust manifolds
So if I was asked to recommend which type of engine I would definitely go with the outboard.
Bowriders
Bowriders are the most popular boats in the runabout/ sportboat category, thanks to the spacious seating in their open bow (front) area. Swim platforms at the stern (back) are handy for swimming, donning skis or just dangling toes in the water when at anchor. Sterndrive power is the norm, but outboard engines are becoming increasingly popular for power.
Technical Information
- Minimum Length: 16 feet
- Maximum Length: 28 feet
- Maximum Capacity: 9 people
- Trailerable: Yes
- Propulsion Type: Outboard Engine / Sterndrive Engine
Okay people, so I got fooled a couple of times and learned the hard way – paid more for what I got. Here is a list of Nine rules of thumb for people new to boating.
1. Go boating with friends several times.
Make sure that boating is an activity which really fits your interests and time schedule. Owning a boat just to take her out few times during summer is still an option but the fun with boating in Cyprus starts when the beaches are empty from people! This is when weather and sea conditions are best. Summer months are usually very windy with the exception of few days. Of course winter and days with storms should be avoided (although I came across few people who live dangerously…)