Bruce10892 Loc: Northeast Ohio

I've always wanted a small boat. My nephew gave me a 14' aluminum Grumman boat for Christmas. I sent the 9.9 Johnson motor to the local marina and replaced the water pump and changed the gear oil. Bought a new battery and filled the gas tank and added the 2 cycle oil. Had them go over it and they told me it was in very good condition. Ok...so I registered the boat and trailer and added it to our insurance policy. Well now that its ready to go right? I had an epiphany....I don't t know ANYTHING about unloading, loading or operating it. I've watched dozens of You Tube videos but they were not very informative. So here I am asking if anyone would be willing to spend a day with me and teach me what I need to know. I am willing to pay for your time and you get a day on the water. I am in North East Ohio very close to Walborn Resevoir. Thanks in advance

J in Cleveland Loc: Cleveland, Ohio

Any chance you could bring her up north? I’d be happy to teach you. Been on the water in little boats like that one for 32 years. Also had my captains certificate when I was 19 so I could move yachts around when I had a boat detailing business. If not I could make a trip your way. Got a trolling motor?

Let me know what you think you could send me a PM.

J in Cleveland Loc: Cleveland, Ohio

NO PAYMENT NEDDED!

Grandpa Knows How Loc: OC, California

Good thinking on getting educated first. Check for local fishing clubs, people with boats in the driveway. Local boat marina or dealerships may also be a place to seek advice. Ask some questions to insure the person(s) you select are knowledgeable to begin with.

OJdidit Loc: Oak Creek Wisconsin

Nice little rig you have there, best of luck with it.

Richard E. Loc: South Dakota

Looks like the perfect fishing boat. Buy a paddle, and a tolling motor. Make sure the plug is in and you have a life jacket. You should be able to take it out by yourself. First couple runs I would stay relatively close to the dock just in case you have to paddle back. Buy an anchor. You are in for a treat. Good luck.

charlykilo Loc: Garden Valley Ca

These may help.
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=beginner+boating

Flytier Loc: Wilmington Delaware

Look up online and register for a coast guard safety and operators course. You can do the course online also. You need to know the rules of the road. There are street sign in the water but you need to learn how to read them.

Still above water Loc: San Francisco ca

Sorry I’m too far away, but here are a few tips. 1: make sure that you and no one else checks to make sure your drain plug is in prior to launching the boat. Do not trust this to anyone but yourself. 2: make sure your motor is raised prior to launching. 3: do a pre-start of your motor utilizing a flushing cup and and a hose prior to heading out to the lake.4: check all your hold down straps and wench strap are secure prior to heading out. 5: make sure that u have all the required safety equipment on board prior to launching. 6: take your time backing down the ramp, slow opposite turns when in reverse backing down. It will take a few attempts to figure out the proper depth of the trailer in relation to the water level for a successful launch and retrieve. Once you found that make a mental note of the depth of the trailer in the water. I use my trailer fenders as a gauge to note the proper depth. 7: learn the steering characteristics of you outboard. Tiller controlled outboards require controlled turning, Don’t make tight turns. 8: although your trailer seems to be new, always regularly check your wheel bearings for proper grease. I highly recommend a set of Bearing Buddies for your trailer wheels. 9: make sure your trailer spare is is in good condition along with trailer tires. Lastly do not over load your boat. Pay attention to the weight limit for your boat also make sure your tow vehicle is in park and the e brake is engaged prior to exiting it on the ramp! Also if your tow vehicle has a backup camera utilize it! Best invention since sliced bread! Hope this helps. I’m sure you’re gonnahear a lot more imput, but just my suggestions. If you have any concerns or questions feel free to P.M me Good luck and enjoy your new boat!

ranger632 Loc: Near Yosemite Park Ca.

Nice looking boat, best of luck and tight lines

TooMuch Loc: NE Alabama

Nice boat! My recommendation is that you put guides on the trailer with small dim lights on top. These guides will assist in KNOWING where the trailer is tracking when backing down the ramp when unloaded. They will also serve as guides for loading the boat onto the trailer. The lights are for loading at night. Hope this helps.

TooMuch Loc: NE Alabama

Nice boat! My recommendation is that you put guides on the trailer with small dim lights on top. These guides will assist in KNOWING where the trailer is tracking when backing down the ramp when unloaded. They will also serve as guides for loading the boat onto the trailer. The lights are for loading at night. Hope this helps.

Bruce10892 Loc: Northeast Ohio

Thank you for your response.

Bruce10892 Loc: Northeast Ohio

Thank you Richard....good advice

Bruce10892 Loc: Northeast Ohio

Thank you