orange sun in sky

Sunshine Dilemma – SPF vs. UPF: What’s The Difference?

Most of us love waking up and seeing bright, beautiful sunshine waiting for us outside. That warming sun can provide endless opportunities for beach trips, hiking, and other fun outdoor activities. 

While thinking about the countless adventures you can have on warm, sunny days, it’s also worth sparing a thought for your skin; specifically, how to protect it.

kayak fishing at dawn

From the reasons for the sun’s danger, to the differences between SPF and UPF, you can learn helpful information below to help keep you safe and enjoying that beautiful sunshine! 

What’s So Dangerous About the Sun?

There must be a reason why we lather ourselves in sunscreen and wear sun hats and skin protection sleeves. It’s because the sun can be dangerous. However, not everyone understands how hazardous it can be and the repercussions of poor sun safety. 

fiery sun

The danger doesn’t necessarily lie just in the sun, but in its energy. When the sun’s energy reaches Earth, it’s present as three ray types: visible, infrared, and ultraviolet. The UV rays are also further broken down into three UV types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. 

Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can result in skin, eye, and immune system damage. Sunburn and excessive UV light exposure can also result in skin damage, which might cause premature skin aging and even skin cancer. 

The Sun’s Ultraviolet Rays

UV radiation type chart

The sun’s energy has three ray types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. (photo credit: climate.org)

Earth’s atmosphere absorbs UVC (Ultraviolet-C) rays , so we don’t need to worry about those. However, long-term exposure to UVA (Ultraviolet-A) rays can cause wrinkling, aging, and skin elasticity loss.

UVB (Ultraviolet-B) rays can increase your risk of skin cancer compared to UVA rays. However, UVA rays may increase UVB’s damaging effects, like cataracts and skin cancer. 

CDC UV Rays graphic

The most common cause of skin cancer is from the sun’s rays. (photo credit: Centers For Disease Control & Prevention).

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Sun Protection Factor (SPF) vs. Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF)

So, what’s the difference between SPF and UPF?

Well, let’s take a look at what differentiates them…

sun and clouds

We take specific measures to protect ourselves when we know how harmful the sun can be. Products with sun protection factor (SPF) and ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) are important. However, when you don’t know the differences between these two sun protection measures, deciding what to buy can be challenging. 

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

Sun protection factor is a rating included on sun protection products for skin, like sunscreen and lip balm.

This is because the SPF rating measures how much protection a product can provide against UVB radiation, the UV ray known to cause sunburn and contribute to a skin cancer diagnosis. 

SPF 50 sunscreen

The higher the SPF number is, the longer you can be exposed to the sun without getting burned compared to if you didn’t wear SPF products.

Most SPF products like sunscreens and lotions are produced for the sole purpose of preventing sunburn. Whether you’re hiking or relaxing poolside, SPF products can be crucial to wear at all times. 

Keep your boat protected too!

Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF)

In contrast to SPF, the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) is a rating for UV radiation that penetrates fabrics to get to the skin. It factors in UVA and UVB radiation, whereas SPF only factors in UVB.

UPF is something you might see mentioned on the labels of sun-protective clothing items like specific fabrics and hats. The higher the UPF rating, the less UV radiation can pass through the material.  Like SPF, UPF products are designed to prevent sunburn. However, they also aim to reduce the risk of skin damage. 

Wakesurfing 101 [tips to start riding the wake!]

How to Protect Yourself From the Sun’s Harmful Rays

As much as we love spending time outside basking in the sun’s rays, that doesn’t mean we can’t keep ourselves safe when we do.

You can take a number of proactive measures to protect yourself and your family whenever you venture outside for relaxation or outdoor activities. 

Apply Sunscreen

Sunscreen is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from the sun’s damaging effects. It’s also one of the most effective ways to prevent sunburn while reducing the risk of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. 

However, what you use and how you use it matters in your bid to enjoy sun protection.

sunscreen in hand

An SPF rating of at least 30 should be used, but again, the higher the number, the better the protection.

Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen to all exposed skin. Ensure it has an SPF rating of at least 30. Remember, the higher the number, the more protection you can enjoy.

Seeing broad-spectrum on the label can also give you peace of mind that the sunscreen can protect you from UVA as well as UVB rays. 

Re-applying the sunscreen every two hours will help maintain its protective barrier. However, you’ll need to apply it more frequently if you’re sweating, participating in swimming or other water sports, or exposed to moisture in other ways. If you don’t like the feeling of sunscreen on your lips, purchase an SPF lip balm for total protection. 

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THIS type of heat may help you detox…

Wear Protective Clothing

The less skin you expose to harmful UV rays, the more protected you can be. Alongside applying sunscreen to any exposed skin, you can also wear protective clothing.

Long-sleeved shirts or T-shirts with skin protection sleeves, pants, sunglasses, as well as hats can all be excellent options. You might also like to purchase clothing and accessories with tightly woven fabric or an ultraviolet protection factor rating. 

Wakeboarding tips you can use HERE!

Seek Shade

Spending time in the sunshine can be fun, but you don’t have to spend all day in it.

Seek shade when the sun’s rays are at their strongest, which is typically between 10 am and 4 pm. Fortunately, seeking shade when you’re out and about can be easy.

woman with sunscreen on nose

Rest under a tree at your local park or take a sun shade or sun umbrella to the beach. Wide-brimmed hats paired with sunglasses can also be an ideal way to maximize your shade access.

Get Vitamin D In Other Ways

If your entire aim with being outside in the sunshine is to ensure you get enough vitamin D, consider obtaining it in other ways. You can obtain vitamin D through supplements, oily fish, eggs, and red meat. Some food producers also add it to other foods like plant milk and breakfast cereals. 

Learn how to layer clothes for winter weather!

Final Thoughts on SPF vs. UPF

As much as we can enjoy seeing the sun when we’re participating in outdoor activities, it can be more harmful than you think. So the more you know about sun safety and protecting your skin, the smaller your risk of sun-related illnesses and damage might be.  

Remember to wear sunscreen an UPF protective clothing… and have fun outdoors!

best fishing movies

“Catch” A Movie | The 8 Best Fishing Movies Of All Time

Written by N1 Outdoors on . Posted in Blog, Fishing

When it comes to movies about fishing, there are some well-known titles and others that may have escaped your notice.

So, when narrowing down the list of the best fishing movies of all-time, it’s possible that there may be some names that don’t necessarily align with you popular choices (if you’re looking for films like “Gone Fishin'” from 1997… well, tough luck!)

Some critics may notice the absence of classics like the 1956 version of “Moby Dick,” starring Gregory Peck. But, since finding a large school of muskies is more likely than stumbling upon a rigid list for this niche genre, let’s venture into uncharted territory!

#1 The Complete Angler (2003)

English writer Izaak Walton penned The Complete Angler, a significant book in fishing’s history, during the 17th century. Although fishing has been a part of human existence since time immemorial, Walton’s writings provided comprehensive documentation on fishing techniques.

This documentary follows Walton’s journey through England and delves into the early stages of formalized fishing.

#2 Low & Clear (2013)

low and clear fishing picture

The Low & Clear documentary captures the reunion of two former friends as they embark on a final fly-fishing trip, representing the purest example of the entire fishing genre.

Throughout their journey, the two men discover the reasons behind their growing apart over the years. The ensuing saga reveals the well-known reality of how fishing can bring out the best and worst in men.

Notably, the film showcases remarkable cinematography and breathtaking shots of the British Columbia wilderness, immersing viewers in the desire to be waist-deep in steelhead waters. Don’t just take our word for it – watch the trailer and get hooked.

[NOTE: Unfortunately, not all films on this list may be available in your region. Even if the movie is available to watch in your home region, things may change when you travel. To avoid the vagaries of streaming services, you can use a VPN for travel, which bypasses regional restrictions. VPN allows you to move freely between countries in a virtual environment. Can’t access the film in Norway? Just change your IP address to the USA.]

Low and Clear by Finback Films (Fly Fishing Movie / DVD)
Low and Clear by Finback Films (Fly Fishing Movie / DVD)
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#3 Silver King: The Birth of Big-Game Fishing (2012)

silver king fishing movie

This is the history of one of the world’s most renowned game fish, the tarpon.

One of the notable events of this movie was the capture of William H. Wood’s 93-pound tarpon. The trophy specimen was caught in Florida’s Sanibel Island with an ordinary bamboo fishing rod and mullet for bait were used.

Wood’s achievements have inspired countless anglers around the world to set out in search of record-breaking fish. Among those anglers were even Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Herbert Hoover.

Since then, the tarpon has captivated the hearts and minds of countless anglers who have sought after them. The documentary features rare archival film clips of early tarpon anglers as well as vintage footage from the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s, alongside compelling modern footage. Together, they shed light on the fascinating story behind the inception of big-game fishing and the ongoing conservation efforts aimed at preserving this species.

Low and Clear by Finback Films (Fly Fishing Movie / DVD)
Low and Clear by Finback Films (Fly Fishing Movie / DVD)
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Love fishing? Know the parts of a fish! [diagram HERE]

#4 Ondine (2009)

ondine fishing movie

Colin Farrell, an Irish trawlerman, catches a stunning woman in his nets and becomes entangled in the mystery of her identity – is she a refugee or a mermaid (known as a “Selkie” locally)?

Neil Jordan’s contemporary fairytale exudes warmth and wit, boasting exceptional performances.

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#5 The Old Man And The Sea (1958)

old man and the sea

Based on Ernest Hemingway’s masterpiece, we’ve seen at least several adaptations and even a 1990 miniseries. IMAX 1999 also turned out to be worthy, but the depth of the masterpiece was best conveyed in John Sturges’ 1958 adaptation.

There are no classic fishing moments here; they even used an enclosed reservoir to film it. However, all this is covered by Spencer Tracy’s game. Hemingway himself reportedly considered it worthy, and we agree with that assessment.

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THIS type of “fishing” is incredible!

#6 The Perfect Storm (2000)

The first hour of The Perfect Storm film presents a gloomy and drawn-out depiction of a struggling fishing community. It is an adaptation of Sebastian Junger’s thrilling bestseller, with Wolfgang Petersen at the helm.

As expected, the film delivers its spectacle in the form of a meteorological phenomenon that ruthlessly batters our courageous crew, featuring George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, John C. Reilly, William Fichtner, Allen Payne, and John Hawkes, leaving them in soggy dire straits.

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THIS fishing knot is for all!

#7 A River Runs Through It (1992)

a river runs through it fishing movie

It would’ve been difficult for this movie to fail with a handsome star like Brad Pitt, but it’s the captivating story and cinematography that truly captured global audiences’ hearts and minds.

“A River Runs Through It” follows two brothers as they navigate their own challenges in early 1900s Montana, with fly fishing always at the forefront.

The film’s beautiful and poetic narration, directly adapted from the novella of the same name, immerses viewers and provokes contemplation of life’s profound inquiries.

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A River Runs through It
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#8 Alamo Bay (1985)

alamo bay fishing movie

You may have never heard of this gritty 1980’s fishing film with Ed Harris. But, it’s definitely on the list.

The film is set in the coastal waters of a Texas Bay town and follows a vindictive Nam vet who clashes with Vietnamese refugees encroaching on the local fishing industry.

Remember “Field of Dreams”? Well, this film and that one only have one thing in common – Amy Madigan, who is amazing.

Harris and Madigan, both on and off the screen, deliver outstanding performances despite the sometimes awkward dialogue. They create an entertaining show that explores the submerged politics of commercial fishing, the pursuit of the American Dream, and the sacrifices required to follow one’s heart – all in the name of fish.

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Conclusion

While fishing films are not always about fishing, they are always related to it in some way. Sometimes we see an incredible storm, sometimes a story of survival, and other times we see unique fishing spots. If you are a true fishing fan, you may well appreciate all of these films.

boat parked at marina for maintenance

Secrets To A Happy Boat | 4 Basics Of Boat Maintenance

Boats need love too…

Just like your car, your boat requires regular care and maintenance to keep it in optimal condition. And, with appropriate upkeep, it will last for several years and bring great memories to you and your family—whether using it on seas, rivers, or lakes.

However, boat care and maintenance isn’t just about inspecting a vessel visually before heading out into the waters. It’s also about caring for a boat after every trip and diligently following a maintenance schedule.

man riding in fishing boat

If you are not familiar with what is involved in boat maintenance, don’t fret! Most boat maintenance-related tasks don’t require a specialist.

In this guide, you’ll learn the basics of boat maintenance. We’ll show you how to keep your boat in excellent condition, like it brand new.

After all, if you can take care of your boat, you’ll be able to enjoy being in the water whenever you want.

Boat Maintenance List

Let’s take a look at a boat maintenance to-do list, so that you can keep your boat in top shape:

1. Keep Your Boat’s Exterior Clean

Keeping your boat’s exterior clean is important for reasons other than just looking good. 

First, having a clean boat helps prevent the spread of harmful and/or invasive species. It’s difficult to know what animal or plant has stuck to your boat, so it’s important to clean the boat, to ensure that you get rid of them, as to protect other bodies of water. 

man wearing black waterproof suit while pressure washing boat hull

Cleaning your boat’s exterior is an important part of boat maintenance that not only keeps your boat’s finish in good shape, but also prevents you from transporting invasive species to other bodies of water.

Second, having a clean boat keeps the boat structure protected by ensuring its finish is intact. For example, as time passes, the salt content of the sea will cause erosions, abrasions, and scratches, which could be too expensive to repair.

Third, a spotlessly clean vessel can save you money. If your boat’s hull is dirty, fuel costs may increase by up to 30%!

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2. Keep Your Boat’s Upholstery Clean

At a minimum, you should clean your boat’s upholstery once every six months.

boat upholstery in fancy boat

High-quality boat upholstery is often resistant to sun damage, mildew, and mold. However, it can be subject to bubbling, cracking, and fading if it isn’t properly maintained. Plus, mildew and mold can make your upholstery smell bad and appear unkempt.

Follow these simple tips below when cleaning your boat’s upholstery. And, if this is too much for you, you can always ask professional boat cleaning services for help.

Here’s how to clean your boat’s upholstery:

  • Grab a brush with soft bristles and sweep the crevices and cracks of the upholstery. Make sure to get rid of any crumbs and hair strands.
  • To eradicate mold and mildew, create a vinegar solution (two parts water and three parts white vinegar). Use a spray bottle to apply the solution and let it soak for several minutes.
  • Rinse the vinegar solution with warm water. You may use a sponge to wipe down surfaces, too. 
  • Consider applying tea tree oil or baking soda if there’s stubborn mildew or mold. However, be more careful when it comes to stitching. Wipe and dry the excess using a microfiber cloth.
  • Lastly, apply a marine protection solution. This provides UV protection to prevent sun damage.
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3. Store Your Boat

Storage is another critical part of boat maintenance. Most boat owners don’t use their vessels for 12 months a year. So, they must store them when the boating season reaches its finale. Learning how to store and winterize your boat may help prolong its lifespan. 

yacht boat at marina

There are many ways to store your boat, depending on where you live. Storage fees typically range from USD$50 to USD$200 per foot—when in season. 

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During winter, you need to keep your boat away from ice, moisture, and snow. However, you shouldn’t seal it airtight, because it requires proper airflow to prevent mildew growth. Also, fuel and fluid lines must be clear to ensure that chemicals don’t destroy anything.

  • On The Water Storage: This is a good option for warmer climates. Most marinas and harbors will let you store your boat all year round.
  • Outdoor Storage: This is a cost-effective boat storage solution. Hire a pro to wrap your boat to ensure optimum protection and airflow. 
  • Indoor Storage: You can store your boat in your garage if you have ample spare space. Or you can rent a storage unit if your budget allows it.

Prepare your boat for storage with these simple tips:

  • Check all hoses and replace those that are damaged.
  • Replace inline fuel filters.
  • Clean the propeller and its shaft, and make sure to lubricate them properly.
  • Flush the waterlines and engine using clean water.
  • Remove spark plugs and lubricate the holes.
  • Fill the tank with fuel and add an antibacterial stabilizer.
  • Remove the battery and keep it to preserve the charge.
  • Remove all electronics and carpets.

Following these tips before you store your boat for a long time will help preserve its condition correctly.

Boat insurance guide HERE!

Kayak types compared right HERE!
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4. Follow The Boat Maintenance Checklist

Mechanic installing speed boat engine

Here’s a basic boat maintenance checklist below to help you keep track of the boat parts that may require attention…

Boat Maintenance Checklist:

  • Engine: Inspect for loose belts and cracked hoses and replace them immediately. And, check to ensure that the outboard motor is secured. 
  • Propeller: If your boat has a stern drive or outboard motor, make sure you check the propeller before launching. Inspect the nut and tighten it using a deep socket wrench if necessary.
  • Battery: Like every vehicle, the battery is the heart of the boat. Without it, the engine and other electrical components won’t start. Check your battery once a year and inspect its charge with a multimeter, and also check connectors for corrosion. 
  • Bilge Pump: The bilge is a part where excess water accumulates, and the bilge pump removes it. So, if it doesn’t work properly, your boat might sink. You can also buy a backup pump in case of emergency.
  • Electrical Lines: Inspect electrical lines for deterioration, as they could become a fire hazard. Always keep them clean to ensure that everything works fine.
  • Oil And Filter: Change the oil and filter whenever necessary, according to manufacturer’s recommendations. If you don’t, some engine parts may get damaged. 
  • Fluid Levels: To ensure optimal boat performance, check other fluid levels occasionally, such as coolant and power steering fluids.
Learn to choose the right fishing guide HERE!

Final Thoughts On Boat Maintenance

boat in water with motor running

Proper boat maintenance may help your vessel perform better. By using the checklists and information above, you can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience.

If you need an extra hand, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. There are a number of companies like Seakeeper Maintenance, or other boat service providers that can help guarantee the best condition of your boat parts.

Enjoy your time on the water!