Summer is just around the corner, and we are ready to get out on the water! Now is the time to start ticking items off of your boat maintenance checklist so that you can get on the water as soon as possible this season!

1. Check Your Motor

Flushing and inspecting your motor gives you peace of mind that you won’t have any issues when putting your boat into the water this season. Be sure that you don’t run your motor without water – most boat motors have a hose nozzle hook up that will allow you to run water through the system so that you don’t damage the engine.

2. Test the Battery

Take your battery to a local auto supply store, or test it yourself with a battery load tester to ensure it doesn’t need to be replaced.

3. Examine or Replace Safety Equipment

Ensuring your safety equipment, such as first aid kits, life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, etc., are up to snuff is a critical step to making sure everyone stays safe this summer. Make sure nothing is expired and check for rips and tears in fabrics.

4. Check for Critters

Give a thorough check of all of the nooks and crannies of your boat to make sure that no rodents, bugs, or other critters have made it their home over the winter. Set traps or remove the new inhabitants safely, so you don’t have any unpleasant surprises out on the water.

5. Inspect Boat Trailer

Ensure that your boat trailer is safe to transport your boat from point A to point B. Look for rust, test connections, and lights, and make sure your license plate isn’t expired. 

Once your checklist is complete, it will be time to have some fun out on the water! If you need a cabin to store your boat this summer here are three tips for finding the perfect lake property in Wisconsin! Enjoy your summer in the Northwoods of Wisconsin!