Sea Hawk Finishes’ antifouling Smart Solution line protects metal hulls from fungal, bacterial and parasitic pathogens. Smart Solution contains a new pharmaceutical-grade biocide technology, Tralopyril, that creates a living coating on the bottom of the boat “much like the mucoprotein protective slime coat that covers the scales and skin of a fish,” according to Sea Hawk.

The slime coat created by the biocide blocks microorganisms from attaching to the hull, even when the boat is not in motion, which makes it good for fishing boats that sit in moorage or on anchor between seasons and openers. The slick surface also increases a boat’s speed, according to Sea Hawk.

The metal-free Smart Solutions can be applied over most antifouling paints, but boat owners should consult the compatibility chart in Sea Hawk’s Bottom Paint buying guide. Sea Hawk Marketing Director Michael O’Keene said the paint requires some preparation for unpainted boats.

“A primer barrier coat is required before putting Smart Solution on bare metal. But being metal-free, Smart Solution will never cause galvanic corrosion, even if the barrier coat fails in areas on the hull bottom,” O’Keene said.

Sea Hawk also recommends that owners wipe the hull with a soft cloth or brush whenever possible to take off surface contaminants. Smart Solution’s antifouling properties remain intact in saltwater and freshwater, making it a good fit for fishermen who run from rivers out into the ocean.

Sea Hawk recommends applying two coats of paint to the entire hull and three up to the waterline. It can be applied with a sprayer or with solvent-resistant brushes and rollers, and boats are ready to launch 12 hours after last coat in 73 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sea Hawk Finishes: www.seahawkpaints.com