Haul Out – Phase 1

The end of the boating season is fast approaching here in the Northeast. Air and water temperatures are dropping rapidly with both heading into the 50s, and it’s time to think about pulling the boat and going on the hard for the next six months. While haul out is never a happy occasion, there are some elements which bear consideration to ease the process. First, before you actually need the trailer, give it a quick inspection and determine if: the tires are solid;  the brakes work; all the rollers or bunks are in good repair; the winch handle and cable operate smoothly; the lights work; and it has a valid license plate. Second, think about how the process is actually going to work on haul out day and figure out: who will be driving the pull-out vehicle and who will be guiding the boat onto the trailer;  ramp location; and tide considerations. If you follow these two steps, taking your boat out of the water is sure to be as pleasant as it can be.