the troller Loc: Downers Grove, il.

Trailer: Check the coupler on the trailer. Make sure all parts move freely and are rust and crack free. Lube if necessary. Inspect trailer jack and wheel. Lube pivot shaft and wheel if necessary. Check all running lights. Inspect either bunks or rollers for excessive wearing, broken board, torn carpet, or loose or missing bolts with the boat of the trailer if possible. Both bearing and brakes if applicable should be serviced by a certified mechanic yearly.

Boat: Check the level of electrolytes in all batteries. Add only distilled water and fully charge after every use. Check battery post for corrosion. Inspect fuel systems for any odors, leaks, or deterioration. Grease the steering cable if needed. Look for any loose bolts and signs of deterioration. Inspect navigation lights for corrosion and make sure they work properly. Inspect bilge and aerator pumps to make sure they are also working properly. Do live wells drain properly. Check intake screen for obstructions. Check the horn. Check the date on your flares. (you don’t need to get kicked off a lake if they are out of date) Are drain plugs installed and tight? Check trolling motor pull cord if applicable. Look for fraying or cuts. Replace if you see any visible wear. Is prop secure and void of cracks or deep nicks? Replace if necessary. Is the fire extinguisher in good working shape and secured? Replace if there is any doubt! Are life jackets and throw cushions in good shape? Check each one for tears, and replace as needed. Clean and wax all parts of the boat and trailer. It not only makes your rig look better but will help in its resale if done on a regular basis. Check anchor rope for wear or aging. Replace as needed. Do you have a basic tool kit on board? Make sure all tools, fuses, and bulbs are accounted for and in good working order.

Last but not least… Make sure you bring your tackle box! Believe it or not, I once went 350 Miles on a Musky fishing trip, only to leave my Musky tackle box sitting on my driveway at home!

Gordon Loc: Charleston South Carolina

Good artical. I'll remember the tackle box. LOL

saw1 Loc: nor cal Windsor

Man, what a bummer. Hope it was still there when you got back.

Ron620DVS Loc: Guntersville Alabama

I believe that you have all of the bases covered..


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Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

For you boat owners who trail your rigs, you probably back your trailer down into the water. Each year, and possibly more often you need to check your wheel bearings. Jack up one wheel and spin it. If it growls you have a problem! Even with seals, they wear and allow water get into the bearings and races. When your vehicle in doing 70 MPH, think how much faster those 12 inch wheels are turning.

You will enjoy a lost trip when a wheel freezes up, blows a tire, and ruins your plans. I suggest each year, pull the hub and check the bearings. They aren't hard to change and if rusty, or even have a lot of black residue on the balls, change them and the race. Repack and save yourself some grief. Even more necessary if you fish salt water. This is probably the most common problem for boaters! RJS

Gordon Loc: Charleston South Carolina

Robert. I change mine out every year. You are right. They are easy to change out and dont cost that much. I pull it 13 hours to the keys every year and it's not worth the headache. But i doe take an extra hub with bearings already in it.