Bringing your boat safely out of the water and onto a boat trailer is a crucial skill for any boat owner. Whether it's the end of a day on the water or the approaching winter season, knowing how to properly load your boat onto a trailer ensures not only the safety of your vessel but also a smooth and efficient process. In this guide, we'll walk through the steps to take your boat out of the water on a trailer.

Prepare Your Boat and Trailer

Before heading to the boat ramp, make sure your boat and trailer are prepared. Check that the lights are working, the tires are properly inflated, and the trailer's brakes are functional. Inspect the boat's hull and propeller for any damage or debris.

Choose the Right Boat Ramp

Select a boat ramp that matches the size and weight capacity of your boat and trailer. Make sure the ramp is wide enough and has enough depth for your vessel. Avoid congested ramps during peak hours.

Back Your Trailer Into the Water

Back your trailer into the water until the boat is partially submerged. Ensure the trailer is deep enough so that the boat can be easily floated onto it. Keep the boat engine trimmed up to avoid it hitting the ramp.

Prepare the Boat for Retrieval

Before driving the boat onto the trailer, prepare it for retrieval. Secure all loose items on board, stow fishing gear, and remove any covers. Ensure that the boat's drain plug is securely in place.

Line Up the Boat with the Trailer

Position the boat so that it is in line with the trailer. This requires careful navigation, especially if the water is choppy. Use short bursts of power and steering adjustments to align the boat with the centre of the trailer.

Drive the Boat onto the Trailer

Once aligned, drive the boat slowly and steadily onto the trailer. Keep the boat in forward gear and maintain a controlled speed. Use the engine and steering to guide the boat onto the bunks or rollers of the trailer.

Centre the Boat on the Trailer

As the boat is driven onto the trailer, ensure that it remains centred. If your trailer has bunks, adjust them to provide proper support to the hull. If it has rollers, make sure they are aligned with the keel.

Engage the Boat's Winch

Once the boat is centred on the trailer, engage the boat's winch to secure it in place. Use the winch strap to pull the boat snugly against the bow stop. This adds an extra layer of security during transport.

Raise the Engine

Trim up the boat's engine to avoid dragging it on the ramp. This is particularly important if the ramp has a steep incline. Ensure that the engine is securely in the raised position.

Secure the Boat and Trailer

Double-check that the boat is securely fastened to the trailer. Confirm that the bow eye is properly connected to the bow stop and that the winch strap is tight. Ensure that safety chains are attached and crossed beneath the bow eye.

Retrieve Your Vehicle

Once the boat is securely on the trailer, pull the trailer out of the water using your vehicle. Drive slowly and steadily, keeping an eye on the boat in your rearview mirrors to ensure it stays centred on the trailer.

Park in a Designated Area

Once out of the water, park your boat and trailer in a designated area. If the boat ramp has a staging area, use it to secure your boat, remove any gear, and complete necessary post-trip tasks.

Perform Post-Trip Tasks

Complete post-trip tasks such as flushing the engine with fresh water, draining any remaining water from the bilge, and covering the boat if necessary. Check that all accessories and gear are removed or secured.

Check Your Boat and Trailer

Before leaving the boat ramp, conduct a final check of your boat and trailer. Ensure that the drain plug is in place, the lights are working, and the boat is securely fastened to the trailer. Also, confirm that the trailer is properly hitched to your vehicle.

Drive Carefully

When towing your boat, drive with care. Remember that you have additional length and weight behind your vehicle. Be mindful of speed limits, and take turns and corners with caution. Ensure that your boat and trailer are visible by using proper lighting.