Page 60 - Lady Bass Digital Magazine Classic 2022

Winterization

Part 1: Boat

Your boat like the outboard has components that need to be regularly maintained and winterized. A good place to start
is with the boat livewell and bilges. Both need to be thoroughly washed and dried out. This is a great time to remove the
batteries to access all the bilge pumps and make sure they are clean with no swelling and to clean the bottom of the boat
out. Baits and all sorts of debris can get washed down into the bottom of your hull. I always take before and after photos
to help with the reinstall. Before reinstalling the battery, check the posts and connectors and give them a good cleaning.
Any water that remains can freeze and lead to damage.

A small amount of RV antifreeze can be added to both as a preventative. It is critical to thor-
oughly wash out the livewells before using them again.

Be sure to remove the boat plug and raise the bow of the boat to help ensure all the water
drains out.

The following items deal more with maintenance than winterizing.

Check the rub rail, your boat compartments, carpeting, and the
electronics. I have found that as my boat ages, the screws that
hold the rub rails to the edge of the boat will begin to work their
way out.

Your rub rail is made of two parts. The rail is the part that is at-
tached directly to the boat and the flexible rail inserts slide inside the rails to
protect the gunnel of the boat as it sits aside a dock or as you pass by a tree. If
you need to replace screws, be sure to use stainless steel to prevent rusting.

If you have a keel guard, check to make sure it is still attached to the keep all
along the boat keel. This keel protector helps prevent damage from rocks,
stumps, and boat ramps. If you don’t have one, it is something to consider
installing.

As you check your compartments, check the carpet, especially the corners
to make sure they are not frayed or coming loose. Regluing or replace the
carpet as needed. Giving the carpet a good cleaning is also beneficial.

Finally, inspect the hull looking for cracks and damage. Minor damage
can be a do-it-yourself project. Major damage will need to be addressed
professionally.

58 Lady Bass Anglers Association
Winterization- Part 1: Boat