6 Bike Car Carrier Buying Guide

If you and your family or friends are adventurous people who like to cycle wherever you go, you know how important it is to have a good vehicle that will be able to carry your bikes. If you are going camping or on any other type of adventure or vacation and plan to bring your bike, then it’s essential to consider getting bike racks. The racks should be suitable for the model of vehicle you drive, as well it should match the number of bikes you plan to carry. If you are a bigger family or group of friends, then you should go for a rack that allows you to haul more than two or three. Most racks can be extended with addtional parts, but some models are specially made for up to six or seven bikes. So, before you head to get your 6 bike hitch carrier, here are a few things to consider.

How Many Bikes Will You Carry

Before you decide to get your bike carriers, it’s important to be sure how many bikes you want to carry. If your group of friends or family is larger and every single one of you wants to bring their bike, then a rack with room for more than one bike is essential. Of course, it’s important to say that not every vehicle is big enough to carry more than two or three bikes. If you have a van or an RV and the number of people who will cycle is five or six, then a 6 bike hitch carrier rack can help you immensely.

source: road.cc

Types of Bike Carriers

Here are several different types of bike carriers. The best way to choose your 6 bike hitch carrier is to see what works best for your vehicle.
Hitch racks slide into the receiver of the trailer hitch; these racks can be installed on a vehicle that isn’t originally equipped with one.
Roof racks are the most versatile ones because you can customize accessories to transport things like snowboards, kayaks, bikes or cargo boxes. If you go for these, know that they are stable and will keep the gear out of the way and won’t block any door. Of course, they are pricy and will have to be lifted overhead which may be a challenge for some people.
You can also try trunk racks that fasten to the trunks or hatches with a system of hooks and straps. You can carry one to three bikes in these. They are lightweight and economical, but the transport of bikes is quite limited, so if you need to carry more than one bike perhaps this option isn’t for you.
Truck racks include internal rails or support bars that you can temporarily install in the truck bed to anchor the bikes in place. You can also carry boats and cargo boxes with these racks.  If you have a pickup then you can choose from several truck bike rack options. You can use different mounts and other accessories, and carry your bikes on a protective pad over the tailgate. Some tailgate pads are large enough to help you carry six to seven bikes, which makes the truck racks ideal for a bigger group of cyclists.
Cargo boxes, bags and baskets are hard-sided containers that are mounted to their oof rack and will keep the gear out of sight, which makes them superb for skis, snowboards and other things. But, these aren’t good for bikes or boats.

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Trunk-Mount & Hitch-Mount Racks

These racks go to the trunk of vehicles like hatchbacks or sedans; your bikes will be secured with straps. These racks are the most economical option for carrying multiple (one to three) bikes and don’t need a hitch or rack system.
You can mount the hitch-mount rack on the trailer hitch at the back. This way you can easily get to the bikes and the lifting isn’t too challenging (you will have to put a little effort to lift the bike, but compared to lifting it from the rooftop, it’s truly not a big deal). These racks will extend the length of the vehicle so backing up or maneuvering could be a concern for some drivers. The back part of the car will be limited as well, but you can come across models that can tilt down or swing away from the vehicle. Be sure to match the racks with the type of vehicle you drive and of course with its size.

Hanging Cradle Style

source: switchbacktravel.com

These racks have a pole with arms that holds bikes by the frame. These racks are compact and are cheaper than platform bike racks. You can find models that can drag multiple bikes, even four, five or six at a time. However, these racks don’t fit as many bike shapes and sizes (like kids’ bikes) like it’s the case with the platform-style racks.

Platform Style

This type of rack is anchoring the bikes on trays, which reduces bike sway and the risk of bike-to-bike contact while you drive. These racks usually carry two to three bikes, but you can use extensions to carry up to four bikes. Their price is a bit higher than the hanging cradle style racks. These racks are good for carrying heavier electric bikes as well.

Beginner’s Guide to Fishing Boxes

It is fishing that unlike any other sporting activity helps you improve all of life’s aspects. Maybe not all of them but a great majority of both physical and mental aspects can be improved upon by fishing. Fishing is one of the oldest sports that are still very popular and it can help boost your immune system, promote relaxation and increase full-body strength. While some days you might spend more time sitting than catching fish it is still going to be a good exercise, for your brain at least.

Essential Fly Fishing Supplies

The angling technique for catching fish where the bait (typically an imitation of any sort of insect) is presented on the top of the water for fish, is known as fly fishing. There’s no doubt that fly fishing can be a challenging sport to learn, but with the right fly fishing supplies, you can definitely make your day on the water more successful and enjoyable.

Now, what gear do you need to fly fish? If you’re a beginner, know that as you progress, you’ll have to include a lot of elements. However, there is some essential fly fishing gear that no fisher can’t go without.

Flies

These tiny works of art disguise the hook in order to help you snag and reel in a fish. When it comes to fly fishing, out of the wide range of fly fishing gear – flies are one of your most needed supplies. In the beginning, a small selection of classic flies should be enough to get you started. However, as you progress, you will probably need a whole fly box. It’s recommended that you choose fake flies that look like a bug you’d find nearby. Flies can vary in size, shape, weight, and colour, so if you want to be prepared for a variety of locales and conditions, invest in an assortment.

Rods

When choosing a fly fishing rod, it’s important to bear in mind the length of the rod and the material it is made of. These rods are usually constructed with a length of about 6-10ft. The shortest ones are good for short casts which can be used in small streams, while the longest rods are ideal for making a long cast or when you wish your line to avoid branches or snags.

When it comes to material, the fly fishing rods of today are designed using graphite/carbon fibre, fibreglass and bamboo. For experienced anglers, bamboo fly rods are the best as they are heavy and slow action rods that require great care to maintain their usability. Fibreglass fly rods, on the other hand, are ideal for beginners or individuals who are looking to buy durable but cheap rods. Graphite fly rods are the newest fly rods that you can find on the market these days. They are lightweight and offer you great sensitivity and a more accurate cast.

Reels

The reel component attaches to the fly rod and is what you will use to actually reel in the fish. A good fly fishing reel has to be able to hold the correct backing and fly line for that particular type of fishing that you plan on doing. You also want it to be well balanced, i.e. the reel must balance the rod that’s in your hands. What this implies is that your rod is light, you have to make sure that you don’t have a really heavy reel. There is a diverse range of reels specializing in all categories of fishing. All fly reel models come in a variety of sizes to make them compatible with specific fly lines. Therefore, size your reel according to the type of fish you will be targeting.

Fly Lines

A fly line is what you cast into the water and it attaches to the backing through a nail knot. There is a suitable line for every fly rod and any fishing situation. The species you go after and the usual wind conditions in your area will give you a good idea of the line weight you need. These fly lines are weighted such that they can go the distance that is required. Hence, the heavier ones are meant for long casts, while the lighter ones are for shorter casts. All in all, there are 4 types of fly line that you can choose from and those are full sinking, the sinking of different rates, partial float and full float.

Apparel

If you are planning on giving a step into the water, you definitely need fly fishing waders. These waders keep anglers warm and dry while they access both banks and deep pockets of a river. However, you should also take into account the temperature of the water in your area, so as to know what to wear or not wear under your waders and boots. Mentioning boots, fly fishing boots trap your heat inside (which makes them good for winter fishing) and create a snag-free smooth surface down the leg.

Multitools

The list of gadgets and tools for fly fishing can be really long. Whether you are tying a fly, cutting tippet, crimping a bar, retrieving a hook, or doing something else, a multitool makes tedious fly fishing tasks quicker and more efficient, and will certainly make your fishing life much easier.
Fishing Net
It may be difficult to land anything larger than a small panfish without a net. What I’m trying to say is that fishing nets make approaching and landing the fish easier on the angler and the fish. You should look for highly durable nets that have a fly-snag resistant basket. Keep in mind that most fly fishing nets will vary in weight, handle length, and material. Unless you have some special reason to have a “huge net”, and if you are a beginner, the lightest net that you can find would be the best for you. The net should be large enough for catching and releasing medium-sized fishes.

How to Select the Right Rod Holder For Your Fishing Boat

One of the most overlooked, yet undervalued pieces of fishing equipment that can significantly increase your fishing enjoyment and success is the rod holder. They can help you place your rod, bait and lure precisely, giving you a hands-free approach to fishing. Moreover, they can be quite beneficial when it’s time to crack open a cold one and grab a bite. But knowing which style of rod holder to buy can take some careful consideration, especially if it’s your first time buying one. You’ll have to get familiar with the available types of rod holders, the materials they’re made from and the mounting options they allow.

Fly fishing equipment on deck with beautiful view of a lake and mountains

But first, why do you need a rod holder? If you’re fishing with a boat, rod holders can come in very handy when trolling. Whether it’s when flat-lining or with a downrigger, a rod holder can be extremely beneficial to have during long, tough days on the water and during extreme weather. Further, using a rod holder allows you to be more attentive to the operation of the boat and when handling your electronics. It can help you remain fatigue-free after a long day fishing, something which many people experience when trolling with a rod in their hands for multiple hours. Lastly, rod holders can come in very handy for live bait fishing, particularly with floats and if you’re using more than one rod. Fishing rod holders allow you to keep your multiple rods organised and your lines free of tangling.

Rod holders come in a variety of styles, shapes and sizes, and they can be built using a variety of materials. The four most common materials used are aluminium, polypropylene, copolymer and steel. Aluminium is lighter than steel, which is why it’s the preferred option between the two. However, steel is slightly stronger. The plastic variants are also quite tough, but not as tough as their metal counterparts. Typically, aluminium and metal will be more expensive, but more expensive doesn’t always translate to better. The price will also vary on the complexity of the unit, the brand and the higher price of the raw materials.

Having said that, the overall design and the manufacturer also play an important role in the quality of the fishing rod holder. If you’re spending a lot of time in violent waters, however, then you should obviously lean towards metal holders for the best results. If you’re fishing in calm, smaller waters and use trolling only as a secondary application, get a plastic version to get the best value.

Next, when it comes to attaching fishing rod holders to your boat, you have two choices – to clamp or to drill them. Both mounting options come with advantages and disadvantages, so think about what your priorities and applications are before making a final decision.

Clamp-on holders come with a simple design to attach to your boat, so attaching them is hassle-free. You also have the freedom to place the holder anywhere on the gunnels and adjust it accordingly. Clamp-on holders are also portable, making them ideal for those who rent the fishing boat. In terms of price, they’re also the more affordable option when compared to drill-mounted holders.

Drill-mounted holders are permanent attachments to the boat. For people who have their own fishing boat and do a considerable amount of trolling, drill-mounted holders are definitely the way to go. If you’re a hardcore troller, these holders are the only viable option for you. Drill mounts let you mount a rod holder permanently exactly how you want to mount it, and they provide more in terms of reliability and strength when compared to clamp-on mounts. You can attach drill-mounted holders either on top of your boat or to the side. They’re easy to install, and you’ll only have to drill two to four holes.

The rod holder should be designed to accommodate your fishing pole in different positions. That being said, make sure the model you choose is adjustable horizontally and vertically. This will allow you to still or troll the fish in the perfect angle before you pull it out.

Lastly, make sure the rod holder you buy is compatible with the type of rod and reel. Some holders are designed to specifically hold casting reels, while others spinning reels. There are some models that can accommodate both types. Something else to keep in mind is to make sure the holder allows for the use of long-handled rods. Furthermore, make sure the design of the rod holder gives you easy access to the rod. You want to get your rod out of the holder as quickly and easily as possible during the initial strike in order to catch the fish. A simple design without any bells and whistles is preferable for this reason. A locking feature is a great addition to have so that it can prevent the rod from being yanked overboard.

What Every Fisherman Needs: Essential Fishing Equipment Explained

Fishing is a great hobby for people who like spending some alone time relaxing, and also for those who enjoy the company of others and like bonding over a calm and peaceful lake and a light conversation. While having a great time, you also have the opportunity to catch your dinner. But, in order to fish properly and successfully, you will need a few pieces of equipment first. Let’s start with the essentials. Beginners, this one is for you.

3 Important Things to Consider When Buying a Fishing Pole

Every experienced angler knows that successful fishing isn’t always simple, and the success is determined by a wide range of factors, including patience, knowledge and skill. Although a little luck never hurt anybody, you can’t will a fish to bite the bait, you’ll need to have the right equipment to take home a big game. One of the most important (and obvious) pieces of fishing equipment is the fishing pole. The pole helps you get the bait and lures into the water with power, precision and distance. That being said, not all poles are made the same, so when you set out to buy fishing pole, there are a couple of important things to consider.

The Essential Pieces of Hunting Gear You Shouldn’t Leave Your Home Without

Every fisherman’s dream is to enjoy the sunrise before making the catch of his life, but not we are not always greeted with this luck during the morning hours. You never know when the gods will have mercy though, that’s, why you need to be prepared at all times and having the necessary equipment, is a part that plays a major role in this. Below are some of the main pieces of equipment that you don’t want to leave behind.

Backpack

A backpack may not be as important as the rest of the fishing gear but is a part of it that allows you to safely and comfortably carry your equipment if you know what you are looking for. Fishing backpacks should be made with a material that provides waterproof properties but still being a lightweight one. A good example of such material is Quiet-Tex, a 2-layer fabric capable of keeping water out of a backpack and being breathable at the same time. This type of hunting equipment should also have purpose specific features which in this case are the holders. They can be found in most fishing backpacks reserved to carry rods, pliers, scissors or other fishing tools.

Reasons Why To Watch Fishing TV

Fishing is my way to get away from my troubles. Well, honestly I don’t have them so much, but everybody needs to escape into a quiet and relaxing place. I’ve been fishing for more than three years and without a doubt I can tell you that it has helped me. The interesting way that I learned how to become an anglers is by watching shows for fishing on TV, amazing isn’t it? I know that there are a lot of stupidity these days on TV but fishing caught my eye.

Spearfishing: What Should Spear Packs Consist of?

If you are new to spear fishing then you’ve entered into a sport that is fun, exciting and quite popular around the world. Generally, this sport attracts many enthusiast, where the majority of them has the pleasure of catching their meal themselves. However, it also offers the chance to fish at local and a national level and representing Australia in World Championships.

Fishing Videos Online – a Good Way to Learn Tips and Tricks

Fishing is boring. Well, it was not until my friend Fred called me on his fishing trip. Honestly, I was amazed how fun fishing can be, and that’s not all. When I get into things, I go all the way, meaning I research everything. I watched more than 50 fishing videos online to learn tricks, which equipment to buy and see some of the lols along the way. So, if you are new to fishing and want to know which things to do and which fishing videos online to watch, then you’ve arrived at the right place.