River News Now Breaking News Travel

(NAPSI)-There's good news on the horizon for anyone who's hooked on fishing. A membership program has been launched from the nation's largest organization of recreational boaters--BoatU.S.--that can help make any fishing trip safe and worry free. "When they are out fishing with friends and family, anglers don't want to worry if something goes wrong--but unfortunately, it does happen," said Mike Pellerin, director of the new BoatU.S. Angler program.

For a small yearly membership fee, BoatU.S. Angler offers a soup-to-nuts program of services and information specifically designed for anyone who fishes with a freshwater fishing boat (up to 26 feet). One of the most valuable is boating safety information and trailering tips. "Anglers tell us that on-the-water safety is very important to them," added Pellerin.

That focus on safety continues with 24/7 roadside assistance so anglers won't be stuck with a broken-down tow vehicle or boat trailer on a narrow shoulder of dangerous interstate at night, or on a lonely country road. You can even get winching service if you're stuck at the launch ramp. And if you're broke down out on the water, BoatU.S. Angler can send a towboat to get you safely back to the dock.

"We can handle all the boating-related concerns because we are the boating experts," said Pellerin. "Anglers only need to do what they do best and enjoy most-fishing. If any boating issues do arise, simply call us and we'll handle the problem." In addition, BoatU.S. Angler offers fishing tips from nationally recognized fishing pros and information on maintaining, upgrading and preventing damage to fishing boats and trailers. It also offers special fishing boat insurance policies that include the basics like liability coverage, lower unit damage, and policies for noninsured boaters, but also adds unique features just for anglers such as fishing gear and tournament coverage. The policies automatically include wide cruising grounds so you don't have to call your insurance company every time you trailer your fishing rig out of state.

Other member benefits include a special Web site chock-full of fishing information, launch ramp rebates, a full year of BoatU.S. Trailering magazine as well as a BoatU.S. Angler newsletter with tips and safety information, money-saving reward certificates at West Marine stores and discounts on fuel and repairs at over 870 marinas across the U.S.