Spending a day on the lake can be a grand time for all. You have to get that boat into the water first. Many new boaters are new to the boat launch. Here is a good process to help you get started on being a better boat launch patron. Who know, this could keep tempers down and reduce your needs to file a claim on your boat insurance.

Step 1 – Staging
Staging include all your pre-launch routines. During this time you should check that all your drain plugs are secure and in place. Check your mechanicals to verify that your boat is in proper order. Do one last walk around and inspect your boats hull for any damages that could be of concern.

The staging goes ever further than this simple safety check. You should load any gear you are taking with you at this time. This includes fishing gear, safety gear, water sports items, and coolers. Nobody wants to wait for you to lug your coolers across the parking lot while your boat takes up valuable launch space

Unhook your boat at this point as well. You want to make sure that when you back that boat into the water it will float and not go down with the trailer. The only part that should still be secure is the winch.

You should also take some time at this point to inspect the boat ramp itself. Take note of any drop-offs there might be in the launch area. How far can you back in before you might have some trouble? Your boat insurance will be glad you were prepared for this new boat launch event.

Step 2 – Launching
Your turn has finally arrived for launching your fun yacht. You assume the position and start backing up. Don’t back so far into the water that your tailpipe becomes submerged. This can cause your engine to stall and cause you issues in pulling back out.

Now that your boat is in the water, unhook it from the winch cable. Now is the time where your partner needs to get the boat out of the launch area. If you do not have a partner, you need to move the boat to a secure location. This is not your time to leave your tow vehicle in the launch area while you go for a test spin. Be courteous of others waiting to launch their boats.

Step 3 – Get parked
Now that your boat is in the water, it is time for you to get your tow rig out of the area. Be courteous in your parking as well. Make sure you park with the flow of others. Ensure you can pull your trailer out without causing damage to other vehicles, trailers or boats. You don’t want to be part of someone else’s boat insurance claim due to careless parking.

Take some time and learn the boat launching etiquette. You may even want to take a day off during the week to practice your boat launching skills. Keeping your time on the launch to the minimal will not only get you more time on the water, but also keep tempers down from others stoked to hit the water. A tussle avoided becomes a boat insurance claim you need not file!

Photo via lsgcp