Top Lobstering Equipment for South Florida
Top Lobstering Equipment
See our list of lobster catching gear for the Florida Spinney Lobster Season
The 2018 Florida Lobster Season started off with much success for local divers in Miami with plenty of lobster for everyone. Personally, we limited out in the first few hours of mini-season opening and most recently scored 11 bugs off the beach in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea using our Airline hookah system.
With the first few dives under our belt for the season, we noticed some of our gear breaking down and in need of replacement. Now that it’s time to purchase new lobstering equipment we want to share with you our list of top lobster catching gear for 2018.
Low Volume Dive Mask
- Omer Alien Spear-Fishing Mask – $60.00
- Automatic Subframe Scuba Mask – $114.95
Dive Fins
- Cressi Pro Light Fits -$51.95
- Cressi Gara Modular Full Heal – $149.95
Kevlar Dive Gloves
- Akona Bug Hunter 1mm – $20.95
- Evo 3mm Dive Glove – $34.99
Lobster Bag
- Lobster Inn -$47.99
- Deluxe One Hand – $73.99
Lobster Snare
- Economy Lobster Snare – $24.99
- Equalizer Lobster Snare – $64.99
Lobster Tickle Stick
- Aluminum Curved Tick Stick – $4.99
- Pro Teaser 2 Telescopic Lobster Tickle Stick – $29.99
Lobster Net
- Tear Drop Net https – $14.99
- Lobster Net and Snare Combo Snet – $39.99
Lobster Guage
- Yellow Plastic – $1.00
- Aluminum – $2.99
Lobster Deveiner Tool
- D Vein https – $14.99
Third Lung
5 Tips for the 2018 Lobster Season
5 Tips for the 2018 Lobster Season
Happy Trailer Storage welcomes the 2018-19 Lobster Season
The Lobster Mini Season in Miami will officially begin at 12:01 am on Wednesday, July 25th, and ends at midnight on Thursday, July 26th. The regular 8-month lobster season will start on August 6th and runs through March 31, 2019. Before you head out on the water review our tips below to ensure a safe and successful hunt!
- SAFETY FIRST
There is always a risk associated with scuba diving, especially during the lobster mini-season. With thousands of recreational boaters on the water at one time, make sure to have your dive flag visible, bring a spotter, and keep your eyes and ears open. Also, as tempting, as is it may seem to reach into a hole or under coral to grab a bug, do not. You can get stuck or injured by an unknown fish lurking below.
- KNOW YOUR LIMITS
During the mini-season, recreational divers and snorkelers can take a maximum of twelve lobsters per person per day in Broward and Miami Dade Counties except for Biscayne National Park. In the primary season, one can take a maximum of 6 lobsters per person per day.
See the official Lobster Season rules
- SIZE MATTERS
It is important to remember the body of the lobster excluding the tail should be larger than 3″, measured in the water. One should carry a measuring device at all times. Possession limits are strictly enforced on and off the water.
- BUY A “LICENSE” OR GET FINED
You must have a recreational saltwater fishing license and a spiny lobster permit to participate in Lobster Season. To acquire these items, one can easily pick them up from a local Publix Supermarket or online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
- PURCHASE THE CORRECT EQUIPMENT
There is nothing more frustrating than malfunctioning equipment during a dive. From a leaking mask to a broken regulator, make sure to have your gear tested and prepped for this season.
Where to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks
Where to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks
Top 6 Places to Watch Independence Day Fireworks by boat in Miami
Happy Independence Day from everyone at Happy Trailer Storage. The Fourth of July holiday is on Wednesday this year. There are many independence day celebrations in Miami that will feature fantastic fireworks displays you can see by boat. Below we have compiled a list of the top six destinations to watch the fireworks in Miami by boat.
1. Bal Harbour
Fireworks: 9 p.m. fireworks display at the jetty on the beach
Address: located on the north end of Bal Harbour Beach at 101st Street, overlooking Haulover Inlet.
2. North Miami Celebration by the Bay
Fireworks: sundown
Address: 3000 NE 151st St. North Miami Beach, FL 33181
3. Key Biscayne’s Fourth of July Parade
Fireworks: 9 p.m.
Address: view the event from the Atlantic Ocean Crandon Boulevard from Harbor Drive to West Enid Drive, Key Biscayne.
4. Americas Birthday Bash in Bayfront Park
Fireworks: 9 p.m.
Address: view from Biscayne Bay, 301 N. Biscayne Blvd., Miami
5. Miami Beach Fire on the Fourth Festival
Fireworks: 9 p.m
Address: View the event from the Atlantic Ocean near the North Beach Bandshell on Collins Avenue and 73 Street
6. South Pointe Park
Fireworks: 9 p.m
Address: View the event from the South Jetty. 1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
How to Prepare Your Boat for a Hurricane
How to Prepare Your Boat for a Hurricane
The Hurricane Season in Miami runs from June 1st through November 30th. Make sure your boat is prepared to weather a storm.
The Hurricane Season is from June 1st through November 30th. Last year was one of the most destructive seasons on record with six major hurricanes, including Hurricane Irma that caused destruction throughout the entire state of Florida. Keeping this in mind, we strongly recommend having a hurricane plan in place for your boat to help prevent damages that can be caused by these storms.
For the 2018 Hurricane Season, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting an average year, with up to 16 named storms, and four major hurricanes. No matter how many storms we see this season; it only takes one to cause significant destruction to your vessel. With the 2018 Hurricane Season officially here, there’s no better time than now to prepare your boat to withstand a major storm.
CREATE A HURRICANE PLAN
The first step to prepare your boat for the hurricane season is to have a plan and know where you will keep it during a significant storm. The safest place to keep your boat during a hurricane is at a dry storage facility like North Beach Marina. Our in-door facility securely holds many vessels all keeping them dry and away from the hurricane force winds. You can also store your boat and trailer on dry land at your home or a boat storage facility like Happy Trailer Storage. We recommend selecting a location with minimal exposure to the wind. You can also reinforce your boat with straps for additional safety measures.
REVIEW YOUR BOAT INSURANCE
It is wise to make sure that you have all of your boat documents up to date and in an easily accessible location. Also, make sure to call your insurance company to make sure the policy is current. To help facilitate a timely insurance claim, take photos and video of your boat before and after to show proof of damages.
SECURE LOSE ITEMS
You will want to remove everything lose on the boat and remove equipment that could be damaged by a storm. These items include antennas, radios, life jackets, fishing equipment and canvas tops. If you cannot remove the electronic equipment from your boat, you can use shrink-wrap tape to protect it.
FIND A SAFE HARBOR
If you have no choice but to leave your boat in the water during a hurricane, try to find a safe harbor to anchor it. Once you locate a safe place, preferably on a canal with tall pilings that can allow your boat to rise and fall with the storm surge. You should use long ropes with fray protection and can use pilings from other dock slips to create more distance. When your boat is secure in the water, it should look like a spider in the middle of a web. You can also use buoys to protect the vessel from impact against floating debris, the dock, and seawall.
DON’T WAIT
Most importantly, don’t wait until three days before a storm strikes to prepare your boat. Should you need assistance preparing your boat for hurricane season call us at 786-728-9988.
Winter Shark Diving in the Bahama
Winter Shark Diving in the Bahamas
Looking for an adventure this winter? Take the short ferry ride over to the Bahamas and experience shark diving at its finest.
Written by: Carli Shekels
Photo by: Paula Herman
Winter in South Florida brings high winds, cold water, and isn’t quite the perfect time for boating but there are undoubtedly other ways to play during this season! If you’re a diver and are looking for something fun during Miami’s winter months, consider taking the FRS Caribbean Ferry over to Bimini in the Bahamas to dive with Hammerhead Sharks! Bimini Undersea Dive Shop offers a unique trip that’s very close to home. After a 2-hour ferry ride, the shop will escort you to the dive boat where you will suit up, travel to the dive site, and wait for the Hammerheads to arrive. Once the first Hammerhead appears, you can jump in and watch the feeding. Typical dives can last well over an hour, and even though it’s a bit chilly (especially for us South Floridians!), the beauty and excitement of seeing these fantastic creatures can keep you warm.
I had the privilege of diving last weekend, and the experience was truly incredible. The dive staff was very accommodating, professional and promoted safety, which is something that I always appreciate. The feeder was a pro, and he made sure to put the safety of the divers first. The water was full of large, hungry Nurse sharks when we jumped in and eventually; the Hammerheads came to have a mid-afternoon snack. They ranged from 10’-12’ and we got to see a “baby” 10’ Tiger Shark cruise by, as well. The water was cold; however, with a 3mm wetsuit, a hood, and gloves, it was bearable for the 75-minute dive. Other divers (maybe with warmer blood!) stayed down longer before heading back to the boat. Once back at shore, we had just enough time to change and have some conch salad before heading to the ferry to return home. It’s a full day of adventure but well worth it if you are interested in seeing some impressive sharks!
Take advantage of our proximity to the Bahamas from Miami and the quick ferry trip to enjoy shark diving and exploring while your boat hibernates this winter.
Holiday Hours & Closures
Happy Trailer Rentals Hours & Holiday Closures
Happy Trailer Rentals would like to wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and happy New Year. Please make a note that we will have special marina operating hours during the holidays. Be sure to review the details below so that you are not inconvenienced. If you have any questions, please call us at 786-728-9988 or click here.
Christmas: Sunday, December 24, 2017
- Closed at 1:00 PM
Christmas Day: Monday, December 25, 2017
- Closed/ No Access
New Year’s Eve: Sunday, December 31, 2017
- Closed at 1:00 PM
New Year’s Day: Monday, January 1, 2018
- Closed/ No Access
Miami Boat Parade Schedule 2017
Boat Parade Schedule Miami 2017
Happy Holidays from everyone at Happy Trailer Rentals!
As the Holiday Season ramps up in Miami, be sure to check out the unique holiday boat parades lighting up the canals of South Florida.
North Beach Boat Parade
North Miami Beach has a shining boat parade of its own! Celebrating its fifth year, the North Beach Boat Parade is set to sail on December 16, 2017, starting at 7 PM from 86th Street and will travel to Brittany Bay Park. What began as a small neighborhood parade is quickly expanding into a fun community event that gives our locals something to both enjoy and participate in. For information or to participate in this fun family event, you can visit the website at http://www.northbeachboatparade.com.
Miami Outboard Club Holiday Boat Parade
The 20th Annual Miami Outboard Club Holiday Boat Parade will take place on Saturday, December 16, 2017. This family-friendly event will showcase more than 50 boats decked out in holiday lights. The parade begins at 7:00 pm and can be watched from the official viewing site at Bayfront Park. There will be Food Vendors, Bounce House, DJ and Firework Show at 9:00 pm.
Seminole Hardrock Winterfest Boat Parade
The Seminole Hardrock Winterfest Boat Parade is among the most prominent boat parades in the country and will take place along the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale, Saturday, December 9, starting at 6:30 PM. This year’s boat parade theme is “Broadway”, and the grand marshals will be country music stars Big & Rich. The best way to see the parade is from the Riverwalk in downtown or the Grandstand area inside of the Birch State Park just north of Sunrise Boulevard.
Boat Trailer Towing Tips
Boat Trailer Towing Tips
Before you hit the highway check out our 7 must know boat trailer towing tips
Do you need to tow a boat trailer in Miami? We have the largest selection of Jet Ski and fishing boat trailers for rent by the day or week- at the best prices in town. Before you hit the road, be sure to review our boat trailer towing tips for a successful ride.
If you’re new hauling a boat, these tips can help get you comfortable with towing a boat trailer on the busy roads of South Florida. If you’re an experienced captain, these tips can help serve as a reminder.
- Hitch size matters: Hitches are rated by class, and depending on how heavy your boat and trailer are, you may need a Class I, II, III, IV or V hitch. Ask you trailer rental professional what hitch size is needed for your vessel.
- Practice your back up: find an empty parking lot and spend time practicing how to back the boat up so you can feel comfortable when at the boat ramp.
- Adjust your mirrors: be sure to adjust your mirrors to compensate for blind spots due to the boat trailer. An attachable side-view mirror can be a big help.
- Take turns extra-wide: avoid hitting curbs and vehicles by taking turns extra-wide.
- Maintain your distance between vehicles: keep at least two-car lengths distance to avoid slamming on the breaks, which could lead to the trailer jackknifing.
- Trailer Sway: IF you notice swaying in the boat trailer, take your foot off the gas to minimize it. If it continues, stop and inspect the trailer.
- Purchase a Sun Pass: the roads in South Florida, especially in Miami, can have heavy traffic around the clock Look to purchase a Sun Pass and use the toll-roads.
For more information on renting a boat trailer in Miami, contact us today at 786-728-9988.
Labor Day Boat Safety Tips
10 Boat Safety Tips to Help You Keep Safe on the Water this Labor Day Weekend in Miami
Happy Labor Day from everyone at Happy Trailer Rentals!
Established by the Labor Movement in 1894, Labor Day is one of the most time-honored traditions in America celebrating the contributions we’ve made to the strength, prosperity, and well being of our country. As boaters and party-goers from around the world flock to Fort Lauderdale for the last major holiday before the fall, we would like to remind you of a few safety tips as you plan to head out on the water for Labor Day Weekend in Miami, Florida.
Top 10 Boating Tips for Labor Day
1. Don’t Drink and Operate a Boat: In 2016, alcohol use was the top reason why fatal boating accidents occur in America according to the US Coast Guard’s annual report. Operator inattention, operator inexperience, improper lookout, excessive speed, and machinery failure rank as the top five primary contributing factors in accidents.
2. Always Have Life Jackets: Everyone on board should be wearing a life jacket while the boat is in operation. 80% of fatal boating accident victims drowned. Of those drowning victims with reported life jacket usage, 83% were not wearing a life jacket. Make sure that you have an appropriately sized life jacket for every person on board.
3. Communicate Emergency Plan: Communicate your plan with the people on your boat and at least one person on shore in case something should go wrong. Also, it is recommended to inform the persons on shore when you will be departing and arriving back at the dock and to call to confirm your safe voyage.
4. Don’t Break the Rules: Boater education courses can help you understand laws, navigation rules, emergency situations, and other useful tips. The top five contributing factors in boating accidents include operator inattention, operator inexperience, improper lookout, excessive speed, and machinery failure.
5. Use the Kill-Switch: Many accidents involve boaters who fall overboard without having been clipped to the engine kill switch. This important piece of equipment can help protect you by stopping the engines should you get ejected overboard.
6. Follow the Weather: Check weather conditions often and be aware of storm warnings before you head out on the water. In Miami, the weather can change drastically within minutes. Be prepared for sun or storm.
7. Wear Sunscreen: The Florida Sun is brutal. Be sure to bring a minimum of a 50 proof sunscreen and apply every few hours to avoid sunburn. It is also recommended to wear a hat, sunglasses, and cover up when in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. If you should get burned, Tylenol and Aloe Vera gel can help alleviate the pain.
8. Drink Water: Sun poisoning is not something we made up to scare the snowbirds. Make sure to drink plenty of water and to stay shaded to avoid becoming dehydrated when on the water for extended periods of time. Especially when indulging in alcohol, do not forget to hydrate!
9. Avoid the Propellers. Many accidents involve non-boaters near the engine propellers. Be sure the area is clear when starting and stopping the boat engines. There were 171 accidents in 2016 which a propeller struck at least one person. Collectively, these accidents resulted in 24 deaths and 175 injuries.
10. Be Courteous: Realize that you are sharing the water with other people so please make sure to be courteous to other boats. Wave, keep your music at a low roar when anchored/beached next to someone, and make sure to leave with everything you came with (take your garbage with you).
Have a safe and fun Labor Day! If you have any questions feel free to contact us at 786-728-9988 or click here.
Lobster Season Tips 2017
Lobster Season Tips
Everything you need to know about the Lobster Season in Miami, Florida
North Beach Marina welcomes the 2017-18 Lobster Season. The Mini Season in Miami, Florida is the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday of July each year. For 2017, the Lobster Mini Season will begin at 12:01 am on Wednesday, July 26th, and ends at midnight on Thursday. The regular 8-month lobster season will start August 6th and runs through March 31, 2018. Before you head out on the water review our tips below to ensure a safe and successful hunt!
KNOW YOUR LIMITS
During the mini-season, recreational divers and snorkelers can take a maximum of twelve lobsters per person per day in Broward and Miami Dade Counties except for Biscayne National Park. In the primary season, one can take a maximum of 6 lobsters per person per day.
See the official Lobster Season rules
SIZE MATTERS
It is important to remember the Carapace or body of the lobster excluding the tail should be larger than 3″, measured in the water. One should carry a measuring device at all times. Furthermore, possession limits are strictly enforced on and off the water.
BUY A LICENSE OR GET FINED
You must have a recreational saltwater fishing license and a spiny lobster permit to participate in Lobster Season. To acquire these items, one can easily pick them up from a local Publix Supermarket or online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
FINAL TIPS FOR LOBSTER SEASON
- Schedule your boat launch in advance
- Get out on the water early to hit your limit
- Bring friends for safety
- Get Scuba Certified
- Rent a boat trailer and head to the Keys
- Have Fun!