At the end of each tournament season, Bassmaster Elite Series pros go through a process of unwrapping and prepping their boats for resale. And it’s not always because they want to.
Certain sponsors — particularly those in the marine industry — require us to upgrade our equipment each year. They expect us to run their newest products and, in some cases, prototypes. Testing equipment is part of the job, and there is no better way to give new products a workout than under tournament conditions.
Like other anglers on tour, once I’m comfortable with the way a boat is set up, I don’t want to make many changes … and that includes moving into a new rig. But in keeping with sponsors’ expectations, it’s a must. And before moving into a new rig, there’s considerable work to be done.
First things first
My first consideration is making sure the boat, trailer and engine are all in tiptop shape … electronics too. Once I’m confident those are taken care of, the next step is saving my waypoints. Although hundreds are of no further use, many still are. To save them, they’re downloaded onto a memory card and stored until the next boat arrives.
Once that’s done, then it’s a matter of removing all of my tackle and gear. And believe me, that’s not a quick process. Like many old school pros, I’m guilty of carrying way too much tackle, but I feel it’s better to have too much than not enough.
Next comes the wrap. Removing it from the boat and trailer usually takes the better part of a day, maybe two, depending on the amount of glue residue.
On rare occasions, a buyer may ask that the wrap remain intact. Some like the notoriety of owning an Elite Series wrapped boat. Others want it for the extra layer of protection that vinyl can offer. It not only guards against scuffs to the fiberglass, it also screens potentially harmful UV rays.
Whenever I’m asked to leave the wrap intact, it makes the job that much easier.
Next is a thorough cleaning. I start by power washing the carpet, then the livewells, compartments, hull, engine and finally the trailer and wheels. I want the boat to look its best, as if I were buying it.
Once it’s sold, then it’s a matter of making the transaction legal … transferring the title and warranties to the new owner. I always buy an extended warranty on the outboard so that the buyer has a few extra years of added protection.
On to the next one
I’m a creature of habit. Once I’m comfortable with a specific boat and layout, I try to stick with it. Not only does it keep things familiar, it makes the reorder process a lot simpler. Unfortunately, things sometimes change and we’re forced to adapt.
Those of you who have followed my career know that I represented Ranger Boats for decades. But after the brand was purchased and many of its key people replaced, the relationship no longer felt the same. I was signed by Forrest and Nina Wood, and they treated me like family … Randy Hopper as well. When they and so many loyal employees were gone, so was my desire to represent the brand.
Shortly after announcing my departure, I received an offer from Caymas Boats. In fact, it was company founder Earl Benz who called me. Flattered, and knowing his character and reputation throughout the industry, it was an easy decision to make. And once again, I would be working with a family-owned business.
For those unfamiliar with his name, Earl Bentz began his career as a test driver and professional speedboat racer for Mercury Marine. Over his career, he set many records while winning countless races. Off the water, he was integrally involved in various aspects of marine design and product development. Having that background and a passion for fishing, he decided to enter the bass boat market. His former brands include Stratos and Triton — two highly successful companies, which he developed and eventually sold.
Today he builds what he considers his finest boats, by the finest craftsmen. And after having run three different Caymas hulls in as many years, and observing their production process firsthand, I’m in complete agreement with that assessment.
Order and delivery
This year, I decided to try their new CX20 Pro. It’s a foot shorter than my previous models but still has the same layout and features.
The ordering process started with my dealer — Black Label Marine in Ocala, Fla. They are the largest Caymas dealer in the country and are located close to me, which makes things a lot easier. I also like the people there, some I’ve known for years. Working with their team, we went through a checklist of options and features. Once every aspect of the build was considered and agreed to, the application was submitted to Caymas. When the paperwork was approved, a work order was then put into place with an expected completion date of six to eight weeks.
During that time, I sent product requests to my other sponsors — among them Mercury Marine, T-H Marine, DD26 Fishing, Battery USA, Garmin, and my title sponsor, Power-Pole. Each of these companies sent the requested equipment to either Caymas or Black Label Marine, depending on the rigging requirements.
Once the boat left the assembly line, it then went through a rigorous inspection process. After Caymas quality control signed off on the build, it was then vacuum-sealed and made ready for shipping. My dealer performed the remaining rigging and prep, then the boat was ready for wrapping.
For that, I rely on “The Wrap Pros” at BB Graphics in Ocala. They do quality work in a timely fashion. Once the wrap was applied, I then loaded all of my gear and headed to the water for break-in. In all, it’s about a 10-week process. And when finally completed, it’s a combined feeling of relief and gratitude.
So when you see a Mercury-powered Caymas, wrapped in black with Power-Pole “CHARGE” logos down each side, you’ll know it’s me … hopefully carrying a livewell full of big fish to weigh-in.
See you there…
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