At long last, Spring is here. After months of frigid temperatures and winter weather, it is finally time to think about putting your boat back in the water. Depending on where you live, the first outing of the season might be only a few days away or still a couple months out. It is never too early to begin preparing for your Spring commissioning, however. Here are a few things you’ll want to go over before taking your boat out on the water.

Time to Launch

Engine Maintenance

If you haven’t had your boat’s engine professionally serviced during the offseason, it will need attention before going back in the water. The oil level and quality should be checked, along with all hoses, belts, spark plugs and fuses. You should also go over the propeller. If anything needs attention beyond your level of expertise, schedule a service appointment with a marine mechanic.

When going over the engine, you should also check the boat’s electrical system. Make sure the battery is fully charged, and test all lights and gauges.

 

Trailer Maintenance

Sometimes boaters focus on getting their boats ready for the season but forget to check their trailer’s condition. Unless you are having a marina put your boat in the water, your trailer will need to be in working order. Inspecting a trailer is fairly simple. You just need to make sure:

  • All lights are in working order.
  • The hitch did not rust over Winter. (If the trailer was kept outdoors)
  • The registration and license plate are valid.
  • The tires maintain the proper pressure.
  • The tie-down straps did not fray.

 

Safety Equipment

You likely still have safety equipment from last year’s season on board your boat, but it should be checked before heading out this year. The precise safety equipment you are required to carry on your craft depend on its class and the state you are boating in. Some standard safety items include life jackets for everyone on board, a fire extinguisher and flares; be sure the fire extinguisher and flares are not expired. While not required by law, you may also want to place a small porta-potty on board and attach a float to your keys.

 

Launching Your Boat

Once you have gone over your boat’s engine, electrical system, trailer and safety equipment, you are ready to put your boat in the water. At the boat launch, place the plug in the boat (you might want to double-check it), and then undo the tie downs. Back into the water until your boat is floating, unhook it from the trailer and take the trailer out of the water.

It may be tempting to start up your engine immediately and head out on the open water, especially considering this is the outing of the season. Take a moment to start your engine safely and let it run, though. Remember to let the blower run for a few minutes and smell around for fumes before turning your engine on. Once your engine is started, stay tied to the dock for a few more minutes so you can make sure the engine is ready to go. You don’t want the engine to cut out right after leave the dock.

After you’ve given the engine a little while to warm up, you’re good to go. You’ve gone all over the maintenance and safety items, and safely launched your boat. Untie your lines and cast off -- it’s time to go boating!  Remember: “Red on right when returning.”