If you find yourself halfway through summer without having pulled the boat out of storage, now may be the time. The fish are biting, the sun is shining, and there is no better time than the present.
Despite the joy of boating, there are several challenges that nearly all boat owners face. Maintenance, preparation, and safety can make the process of getting to water somewhat difficult. To help, here are four easy ways to get your boat ready for the summer season.
Boat Batteries
One of the quickest things to die on a boat is the battery. Make sure to follow the proper procedure when storing boat batteries. Do not leave them in overly hot or cold environments during the off-season. There is nothing worse than getting halfway out onto the water and having the batteries run dead. Hopefully, if that happens, you had enough foresight to bring ores for rowing. However, it is a good practice to check the condition of your batteries before leaving. And, if needed, purchase new ones just in case.
Safety Gear
Whether for a child or adult, safety gear is essential. Make sure that there are enough life vests on board. In addition, every boat member should know how to act and what to do if the boat were to capsize. Try to ensure that you are current on any changing tide conditions if boating in the ocean or bay. Also, it is important to note that even coolers can be considered safety gear. When traveling in the sun, it is important to have access to fresh and cold water. Make sure that the equipment in the boat is fully functional and stocked before embarking on a new trip.
Electrical and Harnessing
If you plan on boating early in the morning or at night, make sure that the lighting and harnessing are functional. That includes any lights attached to the boat as well as the trailer. There is nothing more frustrating and heartbreaking than going on a trip only to get rear-ended before making it. Also, make sure that all wires are covered and that there are no exposed wires. While it should go without saying, be very careful when dealing with electricity and water.
The Walk Around
If you stored your boat off-site or in the backyard, make sure it is visibly well enough to float. Also, check the haul for any defects, dings, scratches, or punctures.
In addition, do a mock run of your trip in your head. Stand in the boat, ensure everything works, run the motor, and check the safety gear. Remember, stay safe and have fun.
