Storage Reactivating the Boat After

Without proper preparation, storage for long periods of time will take its toll on your boat’s appearance and performance. To ensure your boat is properly stored in the off season, complete the following recommendations: • Clean the boat’s exterior and interior, and make sure you let the boat and all hatches dry completely. • Wax the exterior of the boat. • Remove all batteries and put them in a warm place. Charge the batteries once every month while they are in storage.

NOTICE

Do not store yourbattery on concrete because concrete can leach into yourbattery and damage it.

• Remove all gear from the boat. • Remove the electric trolling motor and store it in a warm place. • Verify the livewell and baitwell have no water in them. • PulI the plug and drain the bilge. Use a sponge to completely dry the bilge area. • Run the aerator and bilge pump momentarily to ensure all lines are clear of water. • Raise the bow of the boat much higher than the stern to ensure complete water drainage from all hose lines. • Try to store your boat in a garage or indoor storage area. If this is not possible, make sure the boat is covered. You can use a commercial heat shrink boat wrap only if it is vented. • Smaller boats are sometimes stripped and stored outside. If you do this, you must either store the boat upside down or keep the stern angled down to drain excess water. • Never store the boat directly on concrete. Always use wood or cardboard between the hull and concrete.