Launching a Boat
If you’re new to boating and have never launched a boat, it can be very exciting as you get ready to take your craft out on the water for the first time. However, before you even think of hitting your favorite fishing spot, one of the most important things you’ll want to learn is how to quickly and safely launch your boat off the ramp. While this is not tough and all it takes is a little practice, it can be intimidating for many enthusiasts. At L&M Marine, we want your next boat trip to be as fun as possible and have shared a few tips to help you prepare for the launch. If you’ve any questions or are looking for a new boat or need accessories, stop by our dealership today. We proudly serve customers from Stapleton near Mobile, Alabama, as well as Pensacola, Florida, and Biloxi, Mississippi.
Practice
One of the key elements of launching a boat is to properly backup your trailer and position it correctly on the ramp. Thankfully, you don’t need an actual launch ramp to practice this. A better option is to go to a wide open parking lot, where there are lines that can be considered as the dock lanes. You can keep cones to mark the end of the ramp and then back up towards this spot from several yards away. The more you practice, the easier it will get for you to maneuver your tow vehicle and trailer in the right direction. If you’ll be taking someone along with you for the launch, it’s a good idea to decide in advance which hand signals to use. Another thing to figure out is whether you’ll look over the shoulder while reversing the trailer or just use the side and rear view mirrors. Choose any method that you find more comfortable, stick with it, and practice it to perfection.
Gear Up
When you arrive at the marina, load all the gear you’ll need in the boat. Remove the tie-down straps on the rear, put the key in the ignition, and lower the outdrive or motor. The goal is to set up everything before you attempt the launch so you don’t hold up other boaters. This minimizes your time on the ramp ensuring that you are ready to ride as soon as you get your boat in the water.
Back Up
Finally, all the practice you did in the parking lot comes into play. Reverse the trailer far enough until the stern of the boat makes contact with water and be careful not to flood the tailpipe of your vehicle. Another crew member should be able to signal this to you so you can engage the parking brake while keeping your vehicle running. Next, have your partner get in the boat, unhook the safety chain, and disconnect it from the trailer. Pull your vehicle forward as soon as the boat is in the water. After parking your tow vehicle and trailer, you’re all set for waterborne fun. The faster and safer you can make the launching process, the better it will be for fellow boaters who will thank you for your preparation.
Launching your boat is a simple process and can be learned with enough practice. Hopefully, these tips will help you launch like a pro. If you have any questions or just want to check out the best new and used boats, head into L&M Marine. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to answer all your queries and show you our huge collection of boats and accessories. We also specialize in boat repair and service, and proudly serve the areas of Stapleton near Mobile, Alabama, as well as Pensacola, Florida, and Biloxi, Mississippi.