Trip and Maintainence Tips
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TIPS TO MAKE YOUR FISHING TRIP TROUBLE FREE

Maintenance
    Tow Vehicle
  1. . Make sure vehicle has enough power to pull boat under all conditions.
  2. . Make sure transmission and suspension are strong enough to sustain extra load of pulling a boat.
  3. . Have trailer hitch the appropriate size for boat.
  4. . Be sure side view mirrors are adequate to avoid blind spots.
  5. . Keep tow vehicle in good running order.
  6. . Regular tune-ups
  7. . Oil changes ever 4000 miles.
  8. . Check all belts for wear.
  9. . Check coolant levels regularly.
  10. . Rotate tires regularly and check for wear and proper inflation.
  11. . Keep front end aligned.
  12. . Make sure battery is in good working order.
  13. . Check all lights and turn signals

    Boat and Trailer
  1. . Get engine tune-up every 1-2 years.
  2. . Change batteries every 2 years or have them checked for dead cells.
  3. . Repack wheel bearings every 1-2 years (depending on mileage) and replace as needed.
  4. . Winterize boat properly.
  5. . Change lower unit oil every year and check level at least twice a year.

Tips for Problem-free Trips
    Before every trip:
  1. . Check tire pressure on tow vehicle and boat trailer. (don't forget the spares). This is also a good time to check the tires for wear.
  2. . Check all lights and turn signals on tow vehicle and trailer.
  3. . Check lug nuts on trailer.
  4. . Make sure batteries are completely charged. Check water level. Tip: Batteries should be charged immediately after every trip to prolong battery life.
  5. . Check oil tank and make sure level is o.k.
  6. . Make sure electronics all work properly. (i.e. LCRs, flasher, trolling motor, GPS unit)
    During trip:
  1. . Don't let tow vehicle gas tank get below 1/4 tank.
  2. . Every time you stop, walk around trailer and check light connections,
  3. . Feel hubs to see if they are overheating (first sign of impending bearing failure).
  4. . Check trailer wheels for play. (also sign of impending bearing failure).
  5. . Check tires for uneven wear and bubbles.
  6. . Check cover to make sure it is tightly anchored.

    Know your boat
  1. . Learn how your engine runs.
  2. . Study your engine-Know where all wires connect to and what they do.
  3. . Read your engine and boat manuals.
  4. . Know how to strip and splice wires. (If you own an older boat or one that is not entirely waterproof, this skill will become invaluable.)
  5. . Know how to change spark plugs.
  6. . Know how to take trolling motor and big motor prop off.
  7. . Know where all the fuses are, especially inline fuses and circuit breakers.
  8. . Learn what your boat alarms sound like and what each one indicates.
  9. . Learn how to unclog your water line.
Things to know and do to keep out of trouble
    Safety Measures
  1. . Let someone know what lake, ramp, area of lake(if possible), and the approximate time you will be coming off of the lake.
  2. . Always check the most current weather report for area you will be fishing.
  3. . Always carry map and learn how to read topo maps.
  4. . When on unfamiliar lakes, watch for landmarks and mark these on your maps as you travel the lake.
  5. . If you own a cellular phone, carry it with you on board (these are absolutely invaluable should you run into serious problems).
  6. Locate the numbers of the marina, the local DNR number, lock master, or other people that could help you before you leave.
  7. . Keep a close eye on the weather while you are on the water.
  8. . Never run on the water when there is lightning or if the water becomes too rough to consider safe. If unsafe conditions arise, put your boat on the nearest shore and seek shelter until conditions improve.
  9. . Learn how to use you maps, compass, LCR.
  10. . Never run on plane in dense fog. If you run into fog, turn your navigation lights on, stay close to the shore and run at an idle.
  11. . When fishing in rough water or around stumps or other obstructions, wear your life jacket if you are alone.

Dress Appropriately

    Summer
  1. . Keep plenty of ice and liquids on board. You should drink plenty of H20 or electrolyte replacing drinks such as Gator-ade. Cokes and alcoholic beverages are not the drink of choice in hot weather.
  2. . Wear a hat that will keep the sun off of your head and your neck, if possible.
  3. . Invest in a good pair of polarized sunglasses.
  4. . Always carry insect repellent.
  5. . Carry and use a strong sunscreen(at least 25SF).
    Winter
  1. . Thermal underwear, including socks.
  2. . Warm, waterproof boots.
  3. . Wear layers of clothes.
  4. . Invest in a good insulated suit.
  5. . Neoprene and knit gloves.
  6. . Knit hat and/or earmuffs.
  7. . Chemical hand warmers.
  8. . Portable propane heater.
Equipment
    Tool Box
  1. . Normal screwdrivers, wrenches, sockets
  2. . Spark plug socket
  3. . Wire stripper
  4. . Electrical tape
  5. . Extra fuses-all sizes
  6. . Extra set of wheel bearings
  7. . Battery jumper cables
  8. . Boat Manuals
  9. . Wire cutters
  10. . WD 40 oil
  11. . Prop Wrench

    Misc.
  1. . Extra oil
  2. . Length of rope for towing
  3. . Extra pin for trolling motor
  4. . Extra trolling motor prop
  5. . Push pole
  6. . Paddle
  7. . Good flashlight
  8. . Air horn
  9. . Flares
  10. . Bright dayglo towel
  11. . Radio
  12. . Compass and/or GPS
  13. . Face shield or helmet
  14. . Good rain suit
  15. . Extra change of clothes
  16. . Dry Towels

    First Aid Kit
  1. . Band aids
  2. . 4x4 gauze pads
  3. . Tape
  4. . Antibiotic Cream
  5. . Ace bandage
  6. . Tylenol, ASA, Advil, or pain reliever of choice
  7. . Antacids
  8. . Hook Removal Kit

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bass boats have docked here since Oct. 28, 1998
This page last updated Jan 21, 1999

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