Anglers and Boaters Call on Youngkin to Move Menhaden Reduction Fishing out of the Chesapeake Bay

• National and regional groups launch effort to protect the health of the Bay and coastal economy

RICHMOND, VA, June, 14, 2022— The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas and a coalition of 10 national and 10 Virginia-based groups is urging Governor Glenn Youngkin to move menhaden reduction fishing out of the Chesapeake Bay. The recreational fishing community is concerned that years of localized depletion from the annual harvest of over 100 million pounds of menhaden in the Bay has deprived gamefish like striped bass, bluefish, and weakfish of a critical food source.

Organizations including the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP), American Sportfishing Association, Coastal Conservation Association, Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, and the Virginia Saltwater Sportfishing Association (VSSA) are dedicated to maintaining the health of the Bay, the region’s economy, and the broader marine ecosystem in the Atlantic. The coalition, which represents thousands of anglers and conservationists from Virginia and beyond, sent a letter to Governor Youngkin today asking that reduction fishing for menhaden be moved out of the Bay until science shows that it isn’t having an impact on fish and habitat.


“Our members have witnessed years of decline in our striped bass, and we believe there is a causal relation to the menhaden reduction industry in the Bay,” says Steve Atkinson, President, VSSA. “Large-scale reduction fishing is outlawed by every other state on the East Coast, so it’s high time that Virginia took action.”

The striped bass fishery is the largest marine recreational fishery in the U.S., driving $166 million in recreational fishing activity in Virginia alone. However, the economic value of striped bass fishing to Virginia has declined by over 50 percent in the past decade.

“Industrial menhaden fishing in the Bay has almost wiped out striped bass fishing charters in the fall and winter,” says Bill Pappas, Owner, Playing Hookey Charters in Virginia Beach. “Nobody will book a trip when striped bass fishing is this bad.”

Science Points to Striped Bass Numbers Decline

According to the latest science, menhaden reduction fishing contributes to a nearly 30-percent decline in striped bass numbers coastwide. Omega Protein, part of Cooke Inc., is responsible for this immense menhaden harvest, which is harming the most important striped bass nursery on the East Coast and undermining the sportfishing economy and small businesses throughout the Commonwealth. It is up to Governor Youngkin and the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) to implement commonsense regulations until science demonstrates that menhaden fishing can be allowed without negatively affecting the broader Bay ecosystem.

“Boating and fishing in the Chesapeake Bay are primary drivers of business for boat dealers across Virginia and largely depend on a robust menhaden population and strong striped bass fishery,” says Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager. “For that reason, the MRAA and our Virginia members hope that Governor Youngkin will support small businesses and the state’s outdoor recreation economy by ending menhaden reduction fishing in the Chesapeake.”

A Call for Change

Local and national groups are calling on their Virginia members, as well as boaters and anglers across the East Coast, to push for change.

“Virginia has an immense responsibility to the Bay ecosystem and anglers up and down the East Coast, where recreational fishing for striped bass is a way of life,” says Whit Fosburgh, President and CEO, TRCP. “We’re making sure that there is national attention on this effort to move menhaden reduction fishing out of the Bay, an iconic fishing destination in its own right, and working closely with fisheries managers in the Atlantic and Gulf to account for the critical role of menhaden in the marine food chain.”

See the petition that fishing and boating groups are circulating now through October, when the VMRC has an opening to change menhaden regulations.

Read the coalition’s letter to Youngkin.


Important Facts for Media:
     • Reduction fishing for menhaden is the industrial harvest of an oily baitfish that is then ground up and “reduced” for use in pet food and other products.
     • This practice contributes to a nearly 30-percent decline in Atlantic striped bass.
     • Virginia is the only East Coast state where reduction fishing for menhaden has not been outlawed.
     • A single foreign-owned company, Omega Protein, removes more than 100 million pounds of menhaden every year from the Chesapeake Bay, the most important striped bass nursery on the East Coast.
     • The striped bass stock has been struggling to recover for over a decade, affecting fishing opportunities and coastal businesses.
     • Anglers are complying with an 18-percent reduction in striped bass harvest, with more cuts expected this year.
     • Omega Protein would still be able to harvest menhaden in state and federal waters.
     • A coalition of 11 national and 10 Virginia-based groups is urging Governor Glenn Youngkin — and the Youngkin-appointed Virginia Marine Resources Commission — to regulate menhaden reduction fishing in the Chesapeake Bay.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

What’s Working Now: 12 Proven Retail Tactics from Boat Dealers Like You

• Real-World Dealer Insights from May 2025 Pulse Report

You know the market is tightening. While it’s good to focus on your business outcomes, it’s also imperative to explore retail tactics that boost your customer relationship, earn repeat business and trust and enhance your dealership’s reputation.  

It’s also important to understand what some of your dealership peers are doing out there in the real world. Many of them are facing the same struggles and have developed marine retails strategies to improve their outcomes in challenging conditions. Being proactive in their approach, from retention efforts to digital presence to becoming leaner.

We pulled a few key insights shared within the May 2025 Pulse Report. Here are a dozen dealer-tested retail tactics within three core areas.

Boat dealership retail tactics

Retail Tactics — Customer Connection & Retention

Strengthening personal connections with your customers is essential for your success. Here are three critical drivers of long-term success, with dealer feedback.

1. Personalized Follow-Up

Your team should treat every lead like it matters. Dealers who say they are winning have recognized that lead follow-up requires 110%!

Dealer insights:

  • “I am going after each lead and follow-up aggressively! The goal is to close the deal!”
  • “Personal follow-up is about the best thing we have going right now.”

2. Fast, Reliable Service

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, repair event cycle time (RECT) is arguably THE top metric and key driver of customer experience. It also plays a role in your reputation, referrals and loyalty.

Dealer insights:

  • “Keeping service times low has kept regular customers happy and new customers coming in.”
  • “We’ve reduced our service rate in hopes that a previous year’s increase will have caused increases at surrounding repair centers, making us the better financial choice when boaters are comparing servicing costs.”

3. Education-Focused Selling

It’s huge in today’s marketplace to engage customers through education instead of only sales and commitments. Many buyers want guidance and for your team of experts to share their boating tips and ownership insights. Dealers who are focusing on education, not just the close, help gain customer trust and heighten boater experiences.


Dealer insights:

  • “Communicate well and often with your clients.”
  • “Our salesperson takes the route of providing information and education on products rather than being pushy to ensure boat buyers are getting what’s right for them, rather than what’s right for us – even though we’re nearing a ‘desperate measures’ situation.”

Retail Tactics — Sales & Marketing

Meet your buyers where they are at. That’s a phrase you’ve heard hundreds of times since 2020. We know they are online and fancy the digital lifestyle. They enjoy doing their own research in numerous places before setting foot in your brick-and-mortar store. That’s why it’s vital to get seen, be everywhere you possibly can and create a sense of urgency in your digital marketing efforts.

4. Demo Rides & On-Water Events

There’s nothing wrong with offering the best digital experience in the world for your customers. Your efforts may include 3-D programs, virtual boat shows, walk-around videos and more, but nothing (yet) can replace putting the buyer at the helm of a boat ON THE WATER!

Dealer insights:

  • “We began on-water shows at the rate of two per month … we’ll keep them up through July.”
  • “Demo Days and ride-and-drives are working.”

5. Stock What Customers Want

Part of understanding your market and your customers’ needs is to study the data and inputs you receive. It’s time to commit to learning what your customers really want. To do this strategy better, you need to determine if making a shift toward practical, value-driven inventory will work for your dealership.

Dealer insight:

  • “We have seen a definite improvement in activity for new boats, with many new customers coming into the showroom. With the summer season almost here, we are focusing on promoting family-friendly boating and affordable fishing models.”

6. Digital Advertising & Online Presence

Even if overall demand and purchasing is slower or lower, it’s critical to stay active in your approach to advertising and growing your online presence. Investing in slow times can keep you top-of-mind, capture more exposure for your products and brand. You can stay ahead of the pack who choose to cut back on their marketing efforts. Being aggressive can gain you more leads and increase online and in-store foot traffic.

Dealer insights:

  • “Lots of digital advertising to keep our product in front of customers.”
  • “Activity, shoppers, calls, web activity and foot traffic have all picked up, with more people coming into the showroom, many of them buying. We are starting to see the results of a more robust marketing plan, targeting family and fishing models. Our pleasure models are still much slower than expected.”

7. Focus on Used & Brokerage Sales

The MRAA Pulse Report continues to show a more balanced market for pre-owned boats compared to new boats, both for inventory levels and retail figures. It’s clear that used boats are turning faster and have solid appeal because they can fit within the buyers’ budgets.

Dealer insights:

  • “Used and Brokerage sales have been steady.”
  • “Used boats are out-selling new right now and we are stepping up on trades to make the deals happen. Putting a little more into the trade to make the new boat sale and knowing that used is strong has been our early-season strategy.”

8. Weekly or Targeted Deals

“An urgency story is something that registers in a customer’s brain as a compelling reason to purchase right now,” says Dom Zappia of EasyCare, an MRAA Education Champion.

Whether you use timely world events or build limited-time offers, creating buyer urgency is a valid strategy and something your team can rally around. This is especially true in a time where the customer’s lack of urgency — and increased caution to buy discretionary items — is a clear pain point.

Dealer insights:

  • “Deal of the Week is working for us.”
  • “Everyone is looking for a deal or using their existing boats.”

9. Facebook Marketplace

Many dealers use Facebook Marketplace as an effective strategy for creating awareness, retargeting and moving used inventory. When paired with a solid follow-up plan and quick response effort, you can maximize your results.

Dealer insight:

  • “Marketing on Facebook Marketplace has been a great hit for used inventory.”

10. OEM Financing & Promotions

Baird has tracked how Original Equipment Manufacturers’ promotions impact demand since 2014. Through July of 2020, the data clearly favored “helped retail demand.” However, since the early spring of 2021 that has shifted into the red (or hurt retail demand) and remained. In fact, May 2025 showed an all-time low point.

Dealer input varies about manufacturer-backed offers. Some praise certain OEMs. Others complain there is not enough action. Still others say these promos (financing and others) only work when dealers fully promote and explain them clearly.

Dealer insights:

  • “Highlighting service quality, nationally advertised rebates, some OEM financing (like Yamaha 1.99%).”
  • “We’ve been really pushing manufacturer promotions to close deals.
  • “Derive sales with promotions marketing.”

Retail Tactics — Operational & External Factors

Strategies that allow you to maintain an aggressive approach are your best course of action to overcome marketplace challenges. The following couple of examples were mentioned by dealers as recent strategies to help them keep afloat in this time of uncertainty.

11. Lean, Efficient Operations

This strategy of going lean works for some dealers while it could create other pain points in the future. You have to put this one on the scales to determine if you’re right sizing in your time of need or standing on a slippery slope that could create workplace pain points like burnout. Certain dealers have found success by trimming overhead, reducing staff and focusing on retaining key functions, while others aren’t sure how to face their workforce conundrum.

Dealer insights:

  • “We’ve cut back to a skeleton crew …  it’s widened margins, but everyone is taking on more.”
  • “Having reduced staff is putting more and more weight on the owners to take on bigger work demands. The single technician we’re down to is having to move their own boats around the yard, where previously he had a porter, a second technician and an apprentice to spread the work around to. The fear of burnout is real.”

12. Weather as a Multiplier

Even the weather guy at your local TV station knows you can’t control the weather or the layers of haze created by wildfires. Focus your energy on the things you CAN control. Dealers who have learned to plan around it or take advantage of sunny days and weekends have displayed flexibility and patience to meet their customer’s needs. Success here means using weather as a tactical amplifier, pairing it with your follow-up, digital marketing and model-specific events. For example: Join our pontoon parade — the sun is out and boats are ready to enjoy.

Dealer insights:

  • “Good weather is working. The excitement for boating is there. When we get a sunny day the traffic noticeably picks up!”
  • “We generally begin to see good weather in late April early May. It’s been wetter and cooler than normal and it has resulted in a pretty slow start to the season. But I still believe the business is in front of us, and we’ve got three months to prove it.”
  • “The second we see sun, the phones start ringing.”

Molding Your Clay; Reshaping Your Approach

Remember this: A block of clay will always be a block of clay until you pick it up, bend it and shape it into something you need it to be. Your dealership requires the same sort of “hands-on” approach if you want to be more successful. In a challenging market filled with uncertainty, these 12 focus areas aren’t just dealership “hope-to-dos.” No, they’re working, right now, for real dealers who are putting in the work to make their dealerships better.

Use these retail tactics as a checklist, playbook or team training tool to help you stay focused, connected and competitive.

MDS Brand Announces Transformative New Lead Generation Tools for Marine Businesses

• New Powerful Suite of Services Helps Boat Builders, Dealers and Chandleries Identify Concrete Leads and Compete in a Crowded Marketplace

Partner Press Release

Santa Monica, Calif. – MDS Brand, industry-leader in boat builder and dealer technology solutions, announced today the next revolution in lead generation tools with the release of its Visitor Reveal Suite. Comprised of the three breakthrough offerings – Visitor Reveal™, Footprint ID™ and DataFuel™ – the MDS Brand Visitor Reveal Suite helps businesses identify, enrich and activate audiences in ways never seen before – in any industry.

Statistics show that 98% of website traffic refuses to fill out contact forms. Visitor Reveal unmasks anonymous visitors with incredible detail unlocking contact data and other key demographic insights. This allows businesses to precisely target high-intent customers, promoting engagement with shopping leads directly, before they have the chance to research competition. Visitor Reveal data can be used to automate follow-ups so that sales teams can be proactive in contacting and qualifying leads.

MDS Brand lead generation tool, Visitor Reveal™ Suite
MDS Brand, an MRAA Partner Member, announced today the release of Visitor Reveal Suite, a new lead generation tool for marine businesses. (Photo provided by MDS Brand)

With application that extends from the website to the real word, Footprint ID delivers unparallelled insights and contact data for foot traffic in physical locations. Whether in dealerships, brick and mortar shops or boat show booths, the foot traffic intelligence provided by Footprint ID lets users track and identify people that visit a specified location and compare it to other locations. Turning insight into opportunity, sales teams can now more effectively engage buyers who visit their businesses as well as identify those that are visiting the competition. The powerful solution can also be configured with geo-targeted alerts for when potential leads are on site and allows precisely targeted online ads based on physical behavior.

Significantly enhancing the data collected by Visitor Reveal and Footprint ID, DataFuel processes contact information to clean and enrich leads that are captured, removing duplicates, fixing formatting issues and validating contact information. It fills in email addresses, phone numbers, demographics and behavioral signals and allows users to maintain a high-quality database for better targeting and personalization, ensuring sales outreach is accurate, timely and relevant.

“Advertisers, marketers and sales staff are constantly trying to identify and qualify leads for more effective and targeted outreach,” said Amir Danaei, President and Co-founder, MDS Brand. “We have unlocked the secret to identifying this information without the need for form-based data collection for people that visit your website or walk onto your lot. This technology is a complete game changer that can easily be integrated into existing systems, letting your business get ahead of the competition and in front of your customers for service and attention that is second to none.”

The Visitor Reveal Suite is available as a complete solution or as individual components with a traffic-based pricing model which translates to some of the most highly competitive costs-per-lead in the industry. The suite is compliant with the latest data privacy and regulations and is approved for use throughout the United States.

To learn more about the Visitor Reveal Suite, or more information on MDS Brand or the complete line of MDS technology solutions, please visit mdsbrand.com.

About MDS Brand

MDS Brand leads the digital marketing space for Boat Dealers and OEMs, offering a suite of services designed to enhance online engagement and sales. Our Boat Configurator stands at the forefront, delivering a unique and customizable shopping experience. We enhance this with tailored website design, efficient CRM systems, and robust SEO and PPC strategies to maximize visibility. Our Virtual BDC and targeted call campaigns further bolster sales and customer interaction. Through these cohesive services, we aim to revolutionize digital marketing in the boating industry, driving innovation and results for our clients.

Make Your Boating Event Better

• For dealership events, it’s all in the specifics, so aim for the bull’s-eye!

In recent A Bit of Optimism podcast with Simon Sinek, guest Phil Rosenthal, the star of “Somebody Feed Phil” and executive producer of “Everybody Loves Raymond”, shared a great line about how the hook is the specific. For example, how can you make your bacon cheeseburger more specific and more desirable? How could you make your boating event better by making it more specific? By giving it an official name, a mascot, including a swag bag and securing partners to help make it special not bland.

Make Your Boating Event Better
Here is the event logo for the 2025 Running of the Toons from Erwin Marine Sales (Provided by EMS)

One MRAA Bronze Member has done just that with its Running of the Toons event, which plays off the famous Running of the Bulls in Spain. The second-annual boating event, which I originally covered in the MRAA’s 50 Dealership Event Ideas blog (No. 48), intertwines a scavenger hunt with a fun run. But beyond that, the Erwin Marine Sales team built the event to drive boat use, promote boating and connect with customers, while also helping to aid the mission of a local animal care facility. Think: Having fun, and for good reason!

Make Your Boating Events Special

I hear you now, “Yeah, we do boat parades, too.” Yeah, but this is different and has become a special event for Erwin Marine Sales and its customers. I recently spoke with Kylina (Caylor) Sherrill, Marketing Director, to learn a bit more about the event, which happens at the end of June.

“As for last year’s event, it went great! We raised over $2,000 for the McKamey Animal Center, which was a wonderful outcome for everyone involved,” said Kylina. “For 2025, we’ve made sign-up free and the donation optional, hoping to encourage even more participation. So far, we’re expecting 10 to 15 boats to join us this year.”

I know what you’re thinking, is an event with a dozen boats worth the effort and time? The answer is yes.

It is because you’re providing a custom experience for the participants, many of whom many vary in their ownership journey. Kylina added, “We did see a mix of participants — mostly customers, but we also welcomed prospects, leads and a few first-time boaters. We love making the event accessible and inviting for anyone interested in boating.” And there it is … an event that is accessible and inviting to anyone interested in boating. That’s critical for driving boat use and for the future of boating.

Boating Event Details

Marketing consisted of including the Running of the Toons on social feeds, the website and a specific newsletter to encourage participation. Kylina explained Erwin Marine Sales made the Running of the Toons registration free (They use jotform.com for registrations). The idea was to encourage more participation, but also transform those would-be costs into donations for the animal care facility.

Make Your Boating Event Better
2025 Running of the Toons stops on Chickamauga Lake. (Provided by EMS)

This boating event — open to all boat types — begins and ends at Erwin Marine Sales’ Chickamauga Marina on Chickamauga Lake in Chattanooga, Tenn. The tour takes boaters to five additional local on-the-water-destinations in: Booker T. Washington State Park, Wolftever Creek Boat Ramp, Chester Frost Park, The Cliffs and Gold Point. This is important as it also shows boaters local landmarks and routes they can revisit and take with their friends and family.

Event attendees won’t leave empty handed, hungry or without a smile. Registration and participation includes:

  • Event bag (on the day of the event)
  • Detailed map of the course
  • Wristband (for access to event perks)
  • Free T-shirts
  • Additional goodies
  • Poker run: All participants will be playing cards, since the Running of the Toons is also a poker run. At each of the stops – there are five, guests are awarded a random playing card. After collecting all five cards, they have built their hand. The boater with the best hand wins a fantastic prize.
  • Boat decorating: Additionally, boating participants are encouraged to decorate their pontoons. Why? Because that’s what you do for Fourth of July boat parades, right?! Of course, but it’s also important at this event because the winning boat can win a prize.
  • Food & Community: After the ride concludes, Chick-fil-A sandwiches will be given out, and guests are encouraged to stay for more games, camaraderie and soaking up the boating lifestyle.

Meet the Teams, Make New Friends!

Beyond the fun, food and competition, Erwin Marine Sales added another layer of customization by inviting the teams from Harris Pontoon Boats and McKamey Animal Center — along with the EMS sales crew. They did this to help participants meet industry experts (to answer questions on site), fellow boating enthusiasts and animal lovers. For some, it’s the first step in building a community of like-minded boaters and boating fans.

Weather … Your Shows Must Go On
Of course, anytime there is an outdoor event on the docket, weather will play a role, as we’ve learned from another MRAA dealership boating event story.

Kylina explained that weather had already impacted several of their events in 2025. “One of our biggest challenges this year has been the weather … but we’ve still managed to have good participation,” she said. “The unpredictable weather seems to have pushed some customers to delay their boat purchases a bit later than usual.” Remember, customers purchasing boats is a good thing, even if it’s delayed due to stretches of inclement weather!

Erwin Marine Sales calls its 5-hour Running of the Toons a fantastic opportunity for its customers to connect with fellow boating enthusiasts, personalize their ownership and make lasting memories. I couldn’t agree more, maybe it’s why I’m so bullish on the event and am a fan of the “beefy” captain in the event logo!

To learn more about EMS’s The Running of the Toons boating event, visit:
https://www.erwinmarinesales.com/event/running-of-the-toons-2/


More Boating Events?

What boating event at your dealership have you given the specifics treatment to? Let me know at jerrod@mraa.com.

EasyCare Upgrades to MRAA Education Champion

MINNEAPOLIS, June 23 –The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) announces that EasyCare, an APCO Holdings brand and a leading provider of F&I solutions, training and dealership development, has leveled up its partnership. The MRAA Education Champions collaboration aims to deliver top-tier finance and insurance products, service training and business development support to marine dealerships nationwide.

“EasyCare is proud to continue our partnership with MRAA and support the marine industry. We are passionate about partnering with dealers to help them get to the next level of F&I success,” said Dom Zappia, Area Director, RV and Marine.”

EasyCare Expertise

For over 40 years, EasyCare has supported automotive, RV and powersports retailers in driving long-term profitability through tailored F&I strategies, customer-focused programs and expert training. Additionally, as an MRAA Education Champion, it’s expanding into the marine industry to equip dealers with innovative F&I solutions, performance coaching and dealership development resources. This helps to empower marine retailers to grow revenue, enhance the customer experience and succeed in a rapidly evolving market

MRAA Education Champions logo

“We’re incredibly grateful to welcome EasyCare aboard as an MRAA Education Champion Partner,” said Freya Olsen, Senior Director of Engagement at MRAA. “Their commitment to dealership growth, paired with decades of expertise in F&I solutions, training and development, makes EasyCare an invaluable ally to our dealer members.”

EasyCare brings extensive experience and insight from working with hundreds of dealerships nationwide. Its strategies have helped increase dealership net income while setting benchmarks in F&I compliance, customer satisfaction and employee retention. It goes beyond products — offering training, development and wealth management to support long-term success throughout the entire dealership.

“Having a trusted industry leader like EasyCare invest in the education and success of the marine retail community sends a powerful message,” added Olsen, “one that reinforces the strength of partnership and the shared goal of fueling dealership success.”

MRAA Education Champions

EasyCare joins a family of dedicated Education Champions, including:

MRAA Education Champions play a significant role in strengthening the MRAA and the dealer body. Learn more about partnering with the MRAA.

About EasyCare
Since 1984, EasyCare has been helping some of the most successful dealerships in the nation drive results in their stores with a full suite of F&I products, forward-thinking training, dealership development, consultative participation programs, and a best-in-class claims experience. EasyCare has the only F&I products named a “MotorTrend Recommended Best Buy” for franchised dealers and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. EasyCare is part of the APCO Holdings, LLC, family of brands, which has protected over 24 million customers and paid over $3.7 billion in claims. For more information about EasyCare, please visit easycare.com.  

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

Why Now Is the Best Time to Invest in Your Marine Industry Career

Summer’s Heating Up – So is Your Opportunity to Advance

We all know that in the marine industry, time is money and flexibility is everything. That’s why MRAA’s Position-Specific Certifications (PSC) are evolving to meet you where you are. For a limited time, you can save $75 on your certification when you enroll by July 3, before these programs shift to an on-demand format starting July 7.

Whether you’re on the service floor or managing the department, PSC offers the career development you’ve been waiting for – on your terms, and on your time.

What Is Position-Specific Certification (PSC)?

PSC is a marine industry certification built for specific roles at a dealership or marina. Unlike general training programs, PSC is tailored to your position, so you get relevant, real-world strategies that immediately impact your work.

Each course was developed by industry pros, such as The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) who collaborated with us to create Service Management Certification. Think of it as professional development that actually understands your day-to-day challenges.

Why a Marine Industry Certification Is a Career Game-Changer

  • Advance your career without leaving your job
  • Gain tactical skills in communication, leadership, service efficiency, and sales process
  • Improve customer satisfaction and boost your dealership’s bottom line
  • Learn at your own pace, with content built for real-world application
  • Earn a respected, industry-backed credential

“This course is a fantastic resource… It serves as a much-needed refresher for seasoned professionals – reminding us of the essential processes and best practices that can sometimes get overlooked.”
— Nadine Urciuoli, Helmuts Marine Service

Save $75! Enroll by July 3 with Code SUMMER

This is your last chance to join a structured PSC cohort before all certifications transition to fully on-demand delivery. With the promo, MRAA members pay just $1,400 (compared to $2,250 for non-members).

Enroll now and start making a bigger impact in your role. All you need is the code SUMMER at checkout.

Why the July 3 Deadline Matters

After July 3, our PSC programs will shift to a more flexible, self-paced format:

  • No more fixed cohort start dates
  • Begin any Monday after July 7
  • Finish your certification within 90 days of enrollment

It’s perfect for busy professionals – but enrolling now means you get the added benefit of a kickoff webinar, structured pacing, and peer momentum.

Which PSC Program Is Right for You?

Service Advisor Certification

  • Designed for frontline service professionals
  • Focus on communication, customer satisfaction, and work order management
  • Ideal for new or growing advisors

Service Management Certification

  • Built for service managers and team leaders
  • Learn shop efficiency, leadership strategy, and profit-building tools
  • Perfect for rising managers or current leaders looking to level up

Sales Leadership Certification (Pre-Enroll Today)

  • Launching this fall – save $75 now by enrolling early
  • Learn team leadership, recruiting, CRM mastery, and sales process optimization
  • Great for sales managers or team leads aiming for next-level growth

Don’t Wait to Take the Next Step

Whether you’re sharpening your skills or chasing your next promotion, there’s no better time to get certified in the marine industry.

Enroll now in Service Management Certification

Enroll now in Service Advisor Certification

Pre-enroll now in Sales Leadership Certification

Set your career on course before July 3!

Questions? We’re Here to Help!

Feel free to call or send an email anytime to MRAA’s Certification Manager, Stevie Cook. She’s your in-house expert on all things related to any of MRAA’s Certification programs. Not to mention – incredibly friendly!

Portrait of Stevie Cook, MRAA Certification Manager

Stevie Cook

Certification Manager

763-402-7236

stevie@mraa.com

Recreational Boating Industry Supports Introduction of Boating Trust Fund Reauthorization

MINNEAPOLIS, June 12, 2025 — The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) backs a bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund (SFRBTF). It was released on Tuesday in the U.S. House of Representatives. The reauthorization of the SFRBTF is a top priority of the recreational marine industry.

75 Years of Funding State-Based Programs

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the SFRBTF — funded by excise taxes on motorboat fuel and recreational fishing equipment. The fund supports state programs that protect sport fish populations, restore critical habitats, and construct boating access facilities. Additionally, the SFRBTF is crucial in maintaining and expanding recreational boating fishing opportunities. It also simultaneously educating boaters and anglers about safety on the water.

Representative Rob Wittman (R-VA) and Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI) introduced H.R. 3858. Representative Dingell carries on the legacy of her late husband’s father, John D. Dingell, who in 1950, introduced the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act, or the Dingell-Johnson Act. It ultimately passed and laid the foundation for the SFRBTF we know and advocate for today.

“Every time a recreational boater fills up before a day on the water, they are supporting the important work done by the SFRBTF, ultimately playing a role in the conservation and restoration of crucial habitat and improving access for recreational boaters,” said Mike Sayre, MRAA Director of Government Relations. “Clean waters, healthy fisheries and access to both are critical for ensuring the recreational fishing and boating industry remains strong, and the work done by the SFRBTF continues to ensure that those priorities remain in check, further underscoring the importance of reauthorization. We cannot thank Representatives Dingell and Wittman enough for their leadership in spearheading the reauthorization of this pivotal program.”

SFRBTF is supported by key revenue sources:

  • Federal fuel taxes from motorboat and small engine fuel;
  • Excise taxes on fishing equipment;
  • Import duties on tackle and pleasure boats;
  • Interest earnings

In addition, these combined sources generated an estimated $760 million in FY2012.

The funds are critical to eight priority programs:

  • Coastal wetlands restoration;
  • Recreational boating safety;
  • Sewage and pump-out station construction;
  • Transient docking infrastructure;
  • National aquatic outreach;
  • Multi-state conservation grants;
  • Fishery commissions;
  • State-level sport fish restoration efforts.

“The SRFBTF is one of the best examples of how a user-pay public benefit program ensures that the investments from many Americans engaging in recreational angling and boating are redirected back into the resource, ultimately creating more opportunities for everyday Americans, benefitting the recreational boating and fishing industry, as well as bolstering our nations fisheries and the habitat they rely on,” said Joe Lewis, Chairman of the MRAA Board and Owner of Mount Dora Boating Center. “As Vice Chairman on the RBFF Board of Directors, a program that is directly supported by the SRFBTF and a marine retailer, I am keenly aware of the many benefits that it provides to our industry. I cannot thank Representatives Wittman and Dingell enough for their leadership in reauthorizing this critical program.”

In 1984, the Wallop-Breaux amendment significantly expanded funding for the SFRBTF. Sponsored by Senator Malcolm Wallop and Representative John Breaux, it included new sources of funding to include excise taxes on motorboat fuels and untaxed equipment. In addition, it also designated 15% of the funds for boating access.

Moreover, visit the United States Fish and Wildlife page dedicated to the SFRBTF to learn more.

MRAA advocacy applauds the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund (SFRBTF)

Therefore, as the H.R. 3858 makes its way through Congress, the MRAA and our coalition partners will continue to support and provide regular updates. Please reach out to the MRAA Government Relations Team of Mike Sayre, sayre@mraa.com and Chad Tokowicz, chad@mraa.com with questions.


About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

MRAA Helps Unlock Relief for Marine Businesses in Minnesota Lead Key Ban Reversal

MINNEAPOLIS, June 12, 2025 — The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) applauds the Minnesota legislature’s passage of H.F. 4, which included a provision that has relaxed the state’s previously enacted lead key ban.

Unlock Minnesota Coalition

The MRAA, as part of the Unlock Minnesota Coalition, comprised of Minnesota-based businesses, worked together to shepherd this provision through the legislative process. Read more about our past efforts.

“The MRAA is pleased to see the passage of H.F. 4 as the provision included will provide much needed relief to the entirety of Minnesota’s recreational boating industry,” said Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager. “The MRAA lauds the work of the Unlock Minnesota Coalition, which played a crucial role in bringing impacted stakeholders together to highlight the widespread disruption the proposed lead key ban would have on various industries throughout Minnesota. The passage of H.F. 4 underscores the Minnesota Legislatures understanding and commitment to supporting Minnesota’s recreational boating industry and the many small businesses which are integral to the fabric of the North Star State’s recreational boating community.”

MRAA Helps Unlock Relief for Marine Businesses in Minnesota Lead Key Ban Reversal
(Far right) Mike Davin, MRAA Vice President of Industry Relations, represented Minnesota’s recreational boating industry at an Unlock Minnesota event at the Minnesota Capitol. Davin’s testimonial spoke about the impact a key ban would have on the recreational boating industry in front of Minnesota legislators and their staff.

Minnesota legislators passed a ban in 2023 on consumer products with certain levels of lead and cadmium. It included jewelry, toys, cosmetics, kitchenware and art supplies. The law also included keys, with the ban set to take effect on July 1, 2025. Moreover, many businesses were in a difficult position since workable alternatives are not available or commercially viable at this time.

The Dealer Voice

Keys are traditionally made of brass but include small amounts of lead for strength. Additionally, the recreational boating industry needed additional time to find workable alternatives. Read this op-ed by Dave Briggs, Owner and General Manager of Wayzata Marine. It will help you understand the impact this provision would have had on Minnesota based marine retailers,

“While the impacts of the key issue may be hard to understand for some, as a small business owner, changes like this can stand to have a major impact on my day-to-day operations and ultimately my bottom line,” said Dave Briggs, Owner of Wayzata Marine, an MRAA member. “I appreciate the work done by Unlock Minnesota, the MRAA and the other small business owners like me who stepped up to fight for this change.” 

Additionally, the MRAA worked with our Minnesota based members to highlight the impact the ban would have on the recreational boating industry. Moreover, Mike Davin, MRAA Vice President of Industry Relations, spoke on behalf of Minnesota’s recreational boating industry at an Unlock Minnesota event. Held at the Minnesota Capitol. the event raises awareness of the issue among Minnesota legislators and their staff. This event received excellent press coverage, including this video from KARE 11 of Mike Davin making his remarks.

The provision passed in H.F. 4 ultimately delayed implementation of the ban until July 1, 2028. Utlimately, it gives the recreational marine industry, and others, much needed time to research, develop and deploy alternatives that comply with the statute.

MRAA Advocacy Efforts

In summary, this is just one of the many examples of how the MRAA continues to advocate on behalf of our Minnesota members and the recreational boating industry at large.

To stay up to date on MRAA government relations activities, subscribe to our quarterly newsletter here. Have any further questions about the key ban? For instance, ant to know more about MRAA government relations activities or how to get engaged? Email Tokowicz, at Chad@mraa.com.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

How to Help Boating Customers Clear Hurdles

• Rapid Marine uses proactive approach to engage, educate and encourage Minnesota boaters about new boating safety law

Imagine there are 10 hurdles in your way, standing between you and the finish line.

If you’ve ever had a chance to run hurdles on a track team, staring down 10 hurdles, each measuring 42 inches high (Olympic), in the 110-meter high hurdles looks incredibly daunting. Clearing all 10 hurdles in sequence while running is even more challenging for those who have never done it or done it with proper form.

For those who have mastered hurdling, it’s a thing of beauty. Just watch current world record holder Aries Merritt of the United States! But for those who have no clue, it’s downright ugly, scary and somewhat hilarious.

I remember the first time I tried to run hurdles in track. If I could jump and run what could go wrong? A lot. However, once I practiced a certain controlled running and leaping cadence for clearing each obstacle things improved. In fact, hurdles were sort of fun after that. “Sure, coach, I’ll do the 400 hurdles, too!”

Help Customers Enjoy Boating

As a boat dealer, you have hurdles of your own, but you also can help guide and coach your customers to greater boating success by clearing obstacles that could prevent them from boating or simply enjoying time on the water. One recent example of this is Minnesota’s new boater education law that goes into effect on July 1, 2025. The MRAA Advocacy Team supported this safety and educational law to promote boater knowledge and training of the future generations of boaters. To be clear, it’s only a hurdle if dealers and boaters are unprepared for it. One dealer took it upon themselves to help its customers understand the new law.

How to Help Boating Customers Clear Hurdles
Rapid Marine, an MRAA Gold Member and Certified Dealership with multiple Minnesota locations, recently created a helpful blog for boaters (especially younger ones) explaining the new mandatory boater safety law that takes effect July 1, 2025!

Rapid Marine, an MRAA Certified Dealership (Shout out to @GarettSolberg and his teammates), understands that by helping its customers overcome boating hurdles, it’s clearing some major hurdles of its own — boater retention. Its recent website article explains all the details of this law. They also share that, “This law is all about boater safety. With more boaters on the water than ever, ensuring everyone knows the rules and has the right training helps prevent accidents and protect Minnesota’s waterways.”

By focusing on messaging that helps improve its customers’ (and potential customers’) boat ownership experiences and educating the boating community it supports, Rapid Marine is earning boaters’ trust and helping to keep its customers boating. And by serving as a respected boating expert — promoting safety and encouraging abidance of boating laws — Rapid Marine is maintaining relationships and fostering messaging that promotes proper boat use and building a culture focused on boater retention.

Overcoming Boating Hurdles Together

Remember this new boater safety law is just one hurdle of many new boaters face. Others may include not knowing boating and fishing laws, where to boat or how to maintain their boat.

That’s why it’s important to engage, educate and encourage customers. You’re helping them to reduce the number of hurdles or properly size them up so they enjoy boating to its fullest. Your guidance, like this Rapid Marine example, helps them find greater success and develop loyalty to your dealership.

What hurdles have you helped your customers understand more clearly so they can take them on with more confidence and at full stride? Let me know about it — send an email to: jerrod@mraa.com.

Texas Boating Bill Protects Consumers, Retailers

• Senate Bill 1267 Increases Transparency in Boat Transactions

MINNEAPOLIS, June 10, 2025 — The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), along with a coalition of recreational boating organizations, commends the state of Texas for enacting Senate Bill 1267, signed into law on May 27 by Gov. Greg Abbott. This bipartisan legislation, classified as “Uniform Certificate of Title for Vessels Act” (UCOTVA), makes important changes to Texas boat titling, registration and branding systems, ultimately delivering significant benefits to consumers, law enforcement, marine retailers and the industry at large.

Authored by Senator Carol Alvarado and sponsored in the House by Representative Cody Vasut, SB 1267 introduces comprehensive reforms to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code. The bill aims to enhance transparency, combat fraud and streamline the process of buying and selling boats in Texas. To clarify, the provisions put forth in SB 1267 fall under UCOTVA. The recreational boating industry, National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and the Uniform Law Commission (ULC) support this set of policy recommendations.

Furthermore, the policies will provide more protections for consumers and marine retailers, making it harder for bad actors to hide the vessel history and deter theft. Ultimately, this increases transparency in the marketplace. Texas is the seventh jurisdiction to enact UCOTVA provisions.

“The MRAA praises the passage of SB 1267 and commends Representative Vasut and Senator Alvarado for championing legislation that supports the recreational marine industry,” said Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager. “It is our hope that the successful passage of SB 1267 in Texas will pave the way for other states to follow the lead and consider adopting UCOTVA to the benefit of their states recreational marine industry.”


Key Consumer Protections and Industry Enhancements in Texas Boating Bill — SB 1267:
  • Hull-Damaged Title Branding:
    • The law mandates that vessels with known hull damage be clearly branded as “Hull Damaged” on their titles. To clarify, the requirement applies to both private sellers and insurers and includes criminal penalties for noncompliance. Overall, it ensures that consumers are aware of serious issues before purchase. It helps them make informed decisions and reducing the risk of unknowingly buying unsafe or devalued vessels.
  • Accelerated Titling Process:
    • The timeframe for submitting a title application after a boat sale has been reduced from 45 days to 20 days. This change expedites ownership transfers and reduces opportunities for title fraud.
  • Electronic Titling and Records:
    • The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is now authorized to issue and maintain electronic titles and ownership records. This modernization improves record accuracy and accessibility for consumers and law enforcement.
  • Enhanced Hull Identification Number (HIN) Enforcement:
    • The law strengthens regulations surrounding HINs, requiring inspections and proper documentation to prevent tampering and ensure accurate vessel identification.
Marine Industry Coalition

A recreational marine industry coalition, including the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), Boat History Report and the MRAA, supported SB 1267. The MRAA worked with the NMMA to ensure that legislators on key committees understood the benefits and implications of UCOTVA. We urged them to support the passage of the Texas boating bill and legislation. Click here to see our outreach.

Texas Boating Bill letter picture
The MRAA worked with the NMMA to ensure that legislators on key committees understood the benefits and implications of UCOTVA. We urged them to support the passage of the Texas boating bill and legislation in recent letter.

“The passage of SB 1267 marks an important victory for boaters, dealers and manufacturers across Texas,” said Emily Villanueva, NMMA Western Government Relations Manager. “By modernizing Texas’ titling and registration system, this legislation brings much-needed transparency, strengthens consumer protections and aligns with national best practices that benefit the entire recreational marine industry. We commend Senator Alvarado, Representative Vasut and the Texas Legislature for their leadership and are proud to have partnered with MRAA and other stakeholders to support this reform.”


A Focus on Boat History

The industry’s most trusted provider of pre-owned boat history reports, Boat History Report actively supported SB 1267. Its support is part of the broader effort to enhance transparency and consumer protection in boating.

Boat History Report was founded in 2005 to address the lack of reliable information in the used boat market. Grant Brooks, its founder, was frustrated with inconsistent and incomplete data when he searched for a boat. Today, Boat History Report compiles thousands of public and private data sources into comprehensive reports. The reports help buyers, sellers, lenders, insurers and regulators make more informed decisions.

An MRAA Platinum Partner Member, Boat History Report’s mission aligns closely with the objectives of SB 1267. It remains committed to promoting safer and more transparent boat transactions nationwide.

“This legislation is a significant step forward for boating safety and consumer protection in Texas,” said Caroline Mantel, Boat History Report Director of Business Development. “We applaud the Texas Legislature and Governor Abbott for enacting these reforms, which will serve as a model for other states seeking to enhance transparency and integrity in the boating industry.”

UCOTVA Momentum

The MRAA and industry partners are mobilizing to champion these policies as UCOTVA spreads to other states. Want to know more about UCOTVA or discover how you can make a difference? Want to take action on other MRAA advocacy priorities? Please reach out to MRAA Government Relations Manager, Chad Tokowicz, at Chad@mraa.com.

Why Marine Dealers Should Attend the American Boating Congress: Advocacy, Networking, Impact

By Liz Keener, MRAA Senior Director of Dealer Development

During the opening night dinner at the American Boating Congress, organizers invited first-time attendees to stand up. There were dealers, manufacturer representatives and industry suppliers who rose from their chairs — and, of course, me.

For 14 years, I had heard of this event — ABC — where the industry meets on Capitol Hill in Washington to learn, network and meet their congressional representatives. It always sounded like such an impactful event and I was eager to finally attend.

Why Marine Dealers Should Attend the American Boating Congress - MRAA
(From left) Matt Gruhn, MRAA President, Chris Butler, MRAA Board Member and Joe Lewis, MRAA Board Chair attended the 2025 American Boating Congress in Washington to share the voice of boat dealers.

Real Dealer Stories that Made an Impact

What I learned in my short visit to D.C. is every single one of us in the industry can make a difference by attending ABC, engaging in dealer advocacy, meeting with representatives and telling our story.

Akey theme shared throughout was sharing our story. If you don’t tell your story — the story of your business, your family, your employees, your product and your customers — your representatives won’t know how they can best represent you and support your business.

We started the first day by learning from Brett McGill of Marine Max and Bryan Redmond of Suntex Marinas. We also heard from manufacturers, staff from federal agencies and congressional offices, the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) team and an economist. Moreover, topics included regulation, the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, new marine technology, modern manufacturing and more. Finally, the day ended with breakout sessions. It included a state update by the NMMA state government relations team, which touched on their collaborations with MRAA on state policy.

Can’t-Miss Opportunities

Between sessions, during lunch and at the BoatPAC reception, attendees could be heard discussing what they learned, the impact it had on them and what they’re experiencing in their own businesses during these uncertain economic times. BoatPAC, the federal political action committee of the recreational boating industry, promotes boat dealers’ business interests in Congress.

For the first-timers I talked to, it was eye-opening. And for many others in the room, ABC is a can’t-miss annual event.

ABC provides chances for attendees to network, get involved in marine industry advocacy in D.C., and opportunities for further work and collaboration. For example, just hours after meeting a Minnesota dealer at ABC, I connected him with Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager. We got the dealer plugged into local issues impacting him.

Why Dealer Advocacy Matters in Washington

Another first-time dealer participant told me she sees the value in attending as a dealer and hopes more boat dealers will join her in Washington in the future. As the Senior Director of Dealer Development, I would love to see more dealers and MRAA members at ABC. Lawmakers need to hear from our side of the industry. They need to better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with marine retail. While ABC comes at a very busy time for many boat dealers, it is an incomparable opportunity to connect with both legislators and others within the industry.

I hope more dealers will attend the 2026 event, eager to storm the Hill with their stories and make federal lawmakers listen. The NMMA and its industry partners will host next year’s American Boating Congress from May 4-6 in Washington.

In the meantime, never hesitate to reach out to MRAA’s marine industry advocacy team. Should you have questions about attending ABC, what is happening in your state, or if you want to set up a meeting with your local elected official, Mike Sayre, MRAA Director of Government Relations, and Chad Tokowicz are excited to dig into any issue — big or small.