Where did all of this mud come from?

Have you ever been caught in a rain storm and rushed to open the bimini top of your boat only to be covered in red mud? It has happened to me and it is not a fun thing. We all know the cause. Our friend the "Dirt Dobber". Yes, one of their favorite hiding places is a folded bimini. They also love horns and vent areas. The dirt dobber feeds on spiders so spraying an insecticide periodically will help cut down on the nests. I really do not think you can keep them away for long, but this helps. Also, covering your horn and vent openings with an old stocking will prevent them from making their nest in those areas. Make it a point to open your bimini top a couple times a month to check for and remove new nest. If it is possible, leave the top open. They are less likely to build a nest on an open top. By doing this, hopefully you can avoid the mud bath the next time you get caught in a storm.