Helpful Tips on Storing Your Boat for the Winter

When the summer ends, many folks decide that it’s time to store their boats until the spring comes again. But you can’t just leave your boat on the trailer and expect it to be fine in six months. Taking the time to winterize your boat before you store it will reduce spring maintenance and keep your boat in good condition. Here’s what to do.

Inspect Your Boat

To successfully prepare your watercraft for storage, you’ll want to inspect it for any minor or major damages that need to be repaired before proceeding to the next step. Getting the necessary repairs done before storing it can help prevent little problems from becoming big problems. 

Hose it Down

After a season of exciting thrills, your boat has earned a bath. Start off by removing the boat’s bilge drain plug. Now grab your hose, sponge, and scrubbing brush and get right into it. Don’t be afraid to get dirty in order to remove all the slime, gunk, and any other collected substances on the hull. Work your way from the outside in, even wiping down the seats and console.

Now that your boat is spotless, it’s time to dry it. It’s very important that you don’t store it wet. Storing your boat wet can result in mold and mildew. You can either wipe it down yourself or plan to let it sit outside long enough to air dry.

Find a Suitable Storage Location

Now it’s time to put your boat away. If it fits, your garage or storage area on your property is the ideal location, as it provides the most security. Having a designated area in your yard is good too, but make sure to take into account factors that can potentially cause damage to it. Choose an area that is clear of large trees and cover the boat to protect it from the elements.

Visit our dealership in Ketchum, OK, today to view our wide stock of new and used boats for sale. Arrowhead Yacht Club & Marina is proud to serve our Oklahoma customers.