Most people don't associate August with a new year, but that's very much the case when you work for a boating magazine. August is when most of the manufacturers begin to produce new models for the coming year, and it's when we get a sneak peek at what the future holds.

August is when we travel all over North America visiting with different boat manufacturers, test-driving new models, preparing boat reviews for the coming issue of Boatguide. It's also when we get a head start on updating our annual buyer's guide with specs on the new boats. Last week I was in rural Indiana, visiting with Starcraft, Smoker Craft and Sylvan. Next week, I'm off to Kelowna to see what's new with Campion. Bruce Kemp was checking out the 2011 product line from Harbercraft / Kingfisher earlier this month, and we're in the thick of scheduling visits to a dozen other manufacturers through September. It's a lot of miles on the road, and a lot of time away from friends and family, but essential in order to get it all done in time for the annual Buyer's Guide.

If you have a particular brand you would like to see us review, just let us know - either by commenting here, or shoot me an email at boating@formulapublications.com.

- Craig