Boat Maintenance Guide: Tips for a smooth Summer Fishing Season

Summer is the perfect time to indulge in boating and fishing activities in the diverse water conditions of Vancouver Island, BC. Whether cruising offshore or exploring the serene lakes, maintaining your boat during the season is crucial for a trouble-free marine experience.
As a trusted and experienced Vancouver Island boat dealer, we have a deep understanding of the importance of keeping your vessel in the best possible condition.
Here are some in-season boat maintenance tips to keep it running smoothly all summer and make the most of your time on the water.
Boat Maintenance in Summer
1. Regular Oil and Fuel Filter Checks
Frequently inspecting the boat’s engine oil is crucial. Make a habit of checking the oil level before every outing on the water. If required, add the recommended oil by the manufacturer. Marine experts recommend to schedule 100-hour or annual oil changes. However, keeping an eye on the oil between this period helps prevent sudden issues. Monitoring the engine-mounted or remote fuel filter is vital for boat motor maintenance. Water or other impurities can contaminate fuel as time progresses and ruin your day anytime. Hence, keep an extra fuel filter on board and know how to change it when required. Also, keep an extra oil supply on the boat so you never run out of oil. Connect with a trusted dealer providing boat repowering services to analyze your engine’s condition and repair or upgrade it according to your requirements and boat specifications.
2. Check Boat Propeller
The boat prop is crucial for optimum performance. Dust, debris, striking the bottom or hitting rocks damages the propeller over time and reduces its efficiency. Monitor your propeller for damage after every boating trip. Carry a spare hub kit and the required tools to replace it. Keeping a spare boat prop is beneficial in case of emergencies. Brands like Mercury Marine and Quicksilver offer a wide range of replacement boat propellers designed for various boating activities on Canadian waters. Connect with nearby marine professionals for advice and recommendations for the right one.
3. Monitor Spark Plugs, Fuel Tank, and Anodes
A small but essential boat maintenance task is to inspect spark plugs frequently and replace them when needed. Damaged or fouled spark plugs cause a misfire on the outboard and reduce performance. Another crucial work is to check the fuel tank, fuel lines/fuel hoses and other components of a boat fuel system after every 100 hours of use or before the season starts. Take the help of a marine mechanic to inspect and service your engine’s coolant system, as it is essential to prevent overheating and damage.
Anodes, mounted on the engine’s gearcase and transom units, protect the vessel and motor from galvanic corrosion. Check the anodes monthly if you keep the boat stored on the water. And if you use a trailer to store your boat while not in use, field experts recommend checking anodes after every use. Replace the anodes when they are about 50% consumed to ensure proper protection.
4. Maintain Electrical System
Inspecting the battery is a primary step in maintaining a boat’s electrical system. Analyze the water level, clean the terminals, and ensure the battery is charged. Tighten any loose connections and repair or replace corroded wires. Regularly check the fuses, starter, and alternator for proper working. Replace any damaged or improper parts. Take the help of a professional in case of any trouble. Many fishing boats for sale on Vancouver Island come equipped with multiple marine electronics that assist in communication, navigation, and system monitoring. Keep these displays clean for clear readability and maintain their condition for ideal functioning. Products like Mercury Screen & Glass Cleaner help maintain the clarity and functionality of the screens and other components.
5. Keep the Boat Clean
Spending more time on the water or leaving the boat unattended for longer means more cleaning. Schedule timely cleaning of the boat hull, outboards, and other components. Use a mild boat soap or a mixture of water and vinegar to clean the boat exterior. Prevent yourself from using harsh chemicals that can damage the vessel’s finish. Flush the outboard engine regularly to remove dirt, debris, and salt for better performance and durability.
Clean your boat thoroughly after every use, check and repair any cracks you find inside or outside the hull, inspect the gel coat and paint, and repaint your boat as needed. Inspect the steering wheel, water pump, water tank, and other components to ensure they are in proper condition.
Regular cleaning will enhance the appearance, extend the life of your vessel, and retain its value for longer.
6. Upkeep the Trailer
Boat trailers are crucial for storing vessels out of the water or moving them from one place to another.
Before you carry your boat on the trailer:
• Check the air pressure and any wear or tear in the tires.
• Check the brakes, suspension system, tail lights and wiring.
• Ensure the hitch and coupler are securely attached to the tow vehicle.
7. Inspect Safety Equipment
Safety is the utmost priority when you go out on the water. Regularly check the fire extinguishers, flares, life jackets, rafts, medical kits, and other safety gear and replace them if needed. Ensure the proper functioning of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Radio communication devices and marine GPS are crucial for a safe boating experience.
Conclusion
By diligently following these in-season boat maintenance tips, you can ensure your vessel is always ready for the water. It will help maximize your time on the water and lead to more enjoyable, trouble-less boating experiences.
Visit our boat showroom in Port Alberni for the best outboard motors for sale in British Columbia and top-rated boat repair on Vancouver Island, BC. We offer a wide range of marine services and products to keep your boat in excellent shape.
Let’s connect today. Happy Boating!