We're just getting ready to ship a magazine out the door and head down to the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, this Wednesday to see the latest and greatest offerings from the world's premier boat companies. It's usually a big time for all of us editorial types since we get to walk around on nice boats during the day and eat at fancy restaurants on an ad rep's tab each night.

But it's not all fun and games. Boat shows are a good time to catch up with a lot of buddies who are normally spread out over God's creation exploring some hot new bite. Walking the docks puts a beating on your feet as well, and I have to say that after 17 Lauderdale shows in a row, I'm not the one staying out and partying until 4 a.m. anymore. As much fun as a boat show can be, just like a trip offshore in heavy seas, they are no place to go with a hangover.

Everyone knows that things have been a bit rough in the marine market lately, but several boat manufacturers I've talked to have seen some upticks in interest, and many are heading into the show with a good deal of optimism.

Regardless of the state of the economy, one thing's for sure: The fish don't care. The white marlin snapped like wild dogs all along the Atlantic Seaboard this summer; St. Thomas enjoyed an excellent season; and the blacks and blues started showing up early off Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. And since you can't get out to any of these great bites in granddaddy's Coleman canoe, head on down to Fort Lauderdale this weekend, pick up a nice new boat for a song and get this ball rolling again.