As a boat owner, you want to make sure that you are taking care of your boat, just like you do your car or home. This means performing regular maintenance to keep things working properly and to maintain your fishing boat. Use the tips below to set up your maintenance schedule and keep your boat in the best condition possible.
Basic Boat Maintenance Checklist
All boat owners should be aware of these key maintenance items.
- The boat hull and topsides
- Canvas and upholstery
- Engine
- Electrical systems
- Moving parts like hinges, zips, and tracks
Thankfully, modern boats are much easier to take care of than traditional timber boats, largely due to the durability of both fiberglass and aluminum.
How to Maintain Your Boat
Basic maintenance for your boat largely involves keeping things clean and, where necessary, well-lubricated. Performing these basic tasks regularly will have a huge impact on the lifespan and look of your boat.
Canvas and Upholstery
Consider investing in a portable wet vac to clean canvas seating and covers after every few uses. For vinyl seating, use a wet, soapy sponge to wipe down and clean off any dirt or salt. This will minimize the chances of mold and mildew accumulating, both of which will destroy the fabric fibers over time.
Fiberglass Hull
For a fiberglass boat, taking the time to clean it regularly will stop it from turning chalky and oxidizing. Every time you pull the boat out of the water, take the time to thoroughly wash it and clean off any grime, scum, and especially salt. After cleaning, you should also look to wax the hull twice a season, once toward the end of spring and again before storing it for the winter. If you notice the top coat becoming chalky, consider an extra wax session.
Aluminum Hull
For an aluminum boat, clean the hull thoroughly after each use. This practice will help maintain your fishing boat. This can stop grime buildup and minimize any potential corrosion. You can also consider using an aluminum boat polish to add an extra layer of protection.
Engine Maintenance
Maintaining the motor or engine of your boat is crucial, after all, it is what gets you from A to B. Before any trip, you should:
- Check that you have enough fuel and that the fuel tank vent is open.
- Double-check the engine mount screws, and tighten if necessary
- Check the water intake for any debris
- Check the propeller for any oil buildup
After a trip, you must flush the motor. This will remove any sand, dirt, salt, and other debris.
Electrical Systems
Maintaining your electrical systems is also important. The best way to do this is by taking your boat in for an inspection annually. However, there are also some tasks you can do regularly to extend the life of these systems.
- Take good care of your battery and check it regularly with a digital multimeter. Also, check for corrosion around the connections, and use a wire brush to clean if necessary.
- Check your electrical lines a few times a season and wipe them down with a dry cloth to check for damage or breakage.
Moving Parts
Keeping tracks clean and free of debris will ensure they work as they should. Take the time to sweep or vacuum them between trips. For zips and hinges, wipe them down with a dry cloth and check for any rust or corrosion. Add lubrication if necessary.
Keeping your boat well-maintained doesn’t need to take a lot of time or cost a lot of money if you do it regularly. Make sure to leave yourself enough time after a trip to properly clean your vessel before storing it until the next day. Using these tips to maintain your fishing boat will ensure that you can continue enjoying your boat for years to come.
G3 Boats offers a range of fishing boats, allowing you to find the perfect boat for your needs. As a longtime leader in the boating industry, G3 sets the standard for versatility, quality, and service, with the awards to prove it. To find the best boat for you and your family, contact G3 Boats today.