Fishing Boat Storage: 3 Dos And 3 Don’ts

FISHING OS ONE OF THE MOST fun activities people can try. It’s one way of going on an adventure, earning money, and bonding with loved ones. That’s why people tend to invest in fishing boats. However, before you decide to invest in a fishing boat, you need to learn and understand the way of storing it.

You must also have storage space like you do for any other vehicle, such as cars and motorcycles. Also, ask yourself this question: Do I have enough knowledge to maintain and keep it properly if I take a break and don’t use it in the water for a while?

If the answer is no, this article will help you determine the dos and don’ts when storing your fishing boat.

Here are some of the dos:

Do: Choose The Right Storage Option

When choosing the right storage option, consider the convenience and how much it can cost you. You can choose from the options mentioned in this section.

It’s preferable if you keep your boat indoors. That way, you can protect it from different risks. These risks include extreme weather conditions and wildlife that can cause damage to it.

Consider storing your fishing boat in a shed or garage if you’re looking for a more affordable and straightforward option. The advantages are that you can always keep a close eye on it and have constant access. All you need to do is to ensure that the storage space is big enough to avoid incidental contact.

On the other hand, if you don’t have any space to store your fishing boat on your property, you can always look for a boat storage building or facility. It’s also an affordable option. All you need to do is to pay monthly fees for boat storage. With only that, you‘ll have limited access to your boat. Remember, you need to adhere to the hours of the facility.

There are also self-storage facilities that can help you out. These facilities provide premium spaces but are the most expensive options. Moreover, while dry stacked options are also good, you’ll have a limited number of times to visit your fishing boat and take it out.

You can go outdoors if you don’t prefer keeping your boat indoors. These outdoor storage options can either be wet or dry. Let’s say you have a small boat; you can store it on boat lifts.

Do: Keep Your Boat Covered

During the off-season, you must ensure that your boat is fully covered to protect your vessel from insects and wildlife that can attack. Choose a light cover to protect your boat against UV rays and bird dropping. Most importantly, it adds a level of security against theft and vandalism.

Do: Clean And Maintain Your Boat Before Storing

Every time you store your boat, ensure that it’s cleaned. You can do this by rinsing your boat using fresh water and a light soap dish. But before that, empty the compartments first. You can start by throwing out perishable items or foods.

For inspection, start by checking for any small cracks and damage on the boat’s body. While checking, include checking the ropes, decks, hooks, and wires. Aside from this, also prioritize the engines. Ensure that it’s well-cleaned by using a chemical solution to get rid of any sludge or gunk. Lastly, charge and test your battery at least once a month.

To prepare for the winter, you should winterize your boat. You can do some weatherproofing if possible. Dry your boar after washing it. That way, you can prevent dampness. To prevent freezing, use an antifreeze solution throughout your water systems.

Now, let’s talk about the don’ts. They include:

Don’t: Store Your Boat Outdoors As Much As Possible

You can keep your boat in the water if you have a large boat. However, if you use outdoor storage, it offers little protection. Your boat will be prone to UV rays and other possible types of damage.

Although one of the boat storage options is outdoors, keep your boat indoors as much as possible. Doing this will help you avoid ruining your boat due to several potential dangers. In addition, it’s tough to control predators.

Don’t: Place Your Boat In A Slant Position

If you’re planning to keep your boat on a hill or any area in a slant position, avoid it because you can damage the hull. You must understand that if it’s not placed on a flat surface, it’ll create an uneven weight on the hull, causing the boat to warp under pressure. Ensure that you put it on large flat surfaces to support the hull and take the weight off the keel.

Don’t: Use Boat Docks

Everyone wants convenience—that’s for sure. That’s why many boat owners consider boat docks. It helps you have easy access and keep your boat on the water. The downside is that it’s expensive and may not be cost-effective, considering there are more affordable, quality options.

Conclusion

The abovementioned dos and don’ts help you store your boat correctly. Follow all these so that you can ensure the safety and good condition of your boat. Once you have done all these before storing, you can finally take a break and enjoy smooth sailing on your next fishing boat adventure.