Spring Into Action
SPOOLED MAGAZINE
18
A spring sunset over the southern ocean. //SAFETY CHECKS A lot of boats get pulled out of the shed in spring after months of inactivity. There are a few safety checks you should make on your vessel and trailer if it’s been sitting dormant during the winter months. Firstly, throw your battery on charge, and replace fuel that’s been sitting around for too long. It’s a good idea to go through the required safety gear to make sure the flare kit, para rockets and EPRIB are all within date. It’s a good habit to check the first aid kit, PFD’s and torch while you’re at it, and renew bottled water. The trailer should be checked thoroughly as well, making sure the brake calipers aren’t seized, the bearings and bearing buddies are in good order, and the tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure – including the spare. I generally give my trailer a coating of CRC Soft Seal in spring, which is a spray-on protection film that coats the trailer to protect from corrosion. Spring is the end of hibernation and the start of fishing for many southerners. With our better weather just around the corner, it’s time to gear up for some spring fishing. www.spooledmagazine.com.au