If the weather this week is any indication, winter is here to stay. With cold temperatures, snow, and ice that will inevitably head our way, it is time to make sure your boat is ready for a long winter nap. Proper care now can help avoid costly repairs and loss of use when spring weather finally returns.

¯ Clean everything

A thorough cleaning is the start to any winterization project, but it is about more than having a clean boat when spring comes. First, it will be far easier to clean the boat shortly after pulling it. As the boat sits, the algae, dirt, and water stains will become increasingly difficult to remove. Second, a clean hull will help you detect any potential damage.

Cleaning is about more than the hull. Flush all waterlines, change oil, and clean any bilges, too.

¯ Unhook or remove equipment

Electronics, coolers, fishing gear, and the like are great to have on the water, but should be removed during winter storage. Some items are delicate and react poorly to extreme temperatures — both hot and cold. Others can develop their own problems when sitting for extended periods of time, some of which can cause additional problems for your boat if undetected for a couple of months.

Batteries and fuel are an area of much debate during winterization. Batteries should be removed and properly stored. At the very least, they should be disconnected. I learned this the hard way when mice chewed through energized wires, and a spark set a nearby nest on fire. Goodbye boat. I recommend topping off your tank with fresh fuel and adding a quality stabilizer. An empty tank will collect condensation (water), leading to more problems than you need.

¯ Make repairs

Once the boat is clean, it is time to inspect everything. A good bow-to-stern inspection will allow you to discover unknown damage, remember little problems that may have grown, and make a list of anything that needs attention. Any damage to the hull, paint, or gel coat should be addressed immediately. These things can only get worse and more costly with time. Although I prefer to address mechanical problems before officially ending the season, some can wait until spring, as they generally will not worsen in storage.

¯ Time for the engine.

What you will need: As stated earlier, winterization does not require a full-service garage.

It can be done in your driveway or backyard with only a few items to purchase. They include: garden hose with water supply; lower unit flushing attachment; fuel can with 1-2 gallons of fuel; screwdriver set; wrench set; drain pan; engine oil; gear oil; spark plug set;

¯ Let’s get started: mix fuel and oil as per the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 16:01 ratio); attach the fuel can to the engine; attach the flushing attachment to the lower unit and the hose; run the engine at low to medium RPMs for 3 to 5 minutes; disconnect the fuel supply and let the engine run until the fuel is exhausted; remove and replace spark plugs, if necessary; they can be cleaned and reinstalled; remove the propeller, then lower the drain screw and vent screw to allow fluid to drain into the pan; as the oil drains, inspect it for metal flakes, filings, or a milky color. Each is a sign of abnormal wear, water, or damage and will require further inspection by a mechanic; loosely replace the drain and vent screws; refill gear oil until you see it seeping from the screws; tighten screws and continue to fill; inspect the propeller for damage and replace it if necessary; while the propeller is off, inspect the shaft for damage, debris, or tangled fishing line; remove anything you see and inspect the seal for damage; and replace oil and fuel filters (if equipped).

¯ Wrapping it up

If you are storing your boat indoors, it is not necessary to cover it for the winter; however, it is recommended. Covering it will help keep everything clean, keep critters out, and ensure everything is ready to go.

If your boat is stored outdoors, a cover is mandatory. The cover will keep out snow, rain, ice, critters, and dirt – everything you are protecting against. You have two choices: a wrap or a good, strong tarp. Shrink wrapping is the best method, but it generally requires hiring a professional and increases your overall cost. You can also cover the boat with tarps. Doing so requires heavy-duty tarps, strong tie-downs, and, depending on the size of your boat, probably a friend to help. Please make sure the entire boat is covered, the tiedowns are tight, and you inspect it regularly. Any tears, loose straps, etc. need to be addressed immediately.