How to Get Your Boat Ready for Spring

If your boat has been sitting in storage, it's not ready for spring excursions just yet. First, you will need to handle some basic de-winterization tasks. We've created the following guide to walk you through each step. If you have questions or need to bring your boat to a service department, visit Nisswa Marine. Our dealership is based in Nisswa, Minnesota. We also proudly serve those in Minneapolis and St. Cloud, Minnesota.

1. Clean Your Boat

Your boat likely accumulated a layer of dust and grime while it sat in storage. If you leave this gunk too long, it can damage your boat's materials. Give your vessel a good wash. Take this time to also handle any mildew issues, remove dead leaves, give the chrome a polish, wipe down the console, and clean the glass.

2. Inspect Your Boat

Next, make sure the storage process hasn't taken a toll on your boat. Check for any pest infestations, look for any dents or scratches on the hull, and so on.

3. Check the Engine

Make sure there are no leaks around the gaskets and engine heads. Look at the fluid levels and replace the oil. Inspect the spark plugs and replace old ones as needed. If the fuel sat stagnant in the tank, you will want to remove it and replace with fresh fuel. Be sure that the new fuel doesn't have over 10% ethanol content.

4. Check the Batteries

Make sure there is no corrosion or wear on the batteries. Then run the battery so that you can test the lights and other electrical systems.

5. Take Inventory of Your Safety Gear

It's important to equip your boat with the proper safety gear. Make sure the life jackets are all in good condition and that you have the right size for everyone. Kids can grow a significant amount from summer to summer, so they might need the next size up. You'll also want to check all the ointments and medicines in your first aid kit. Replace any that have expired. Finally, check that you have emergency flares and that the fire extinguishers are up to date.

6. Look at Your Boat's Registrations

Glance over your boat registration and tags to ensure they are up to date. Check that you have all the right stickers on your boat.

7. Inspect Your Boat Trailer

Enlist a helper to assist you in testing all of your boat trailer's lights. Replace any bulbs that have burned out. Look over each tire to ensure there is no cracking, rot, or other damage. Measure the tread levels and air pressure, then check these readings against the manufacturer's recommendations.

8. Inspect the Boat Cover

Make sure the boat cover is still in good condition. See if you can spot any rips, tears, mold, or mildew. Fix any problems as soon as possible. A compromised boat cover won't be able to offer great boat protection. Then give the boat cover a good clean.

We hope you found this spring boating preparation guide useful! If you want more tips or need your boat to be examined by a professional, visit the experts at Nisswa Marine. We can answer questions, handle repairs and parts replacement, and assist you with whatever you need. You'll find us in Nisswa, Minnesota, and we also serve those in Minneapolis and St. Cloud.