Boating is an incredible way to spend your time, out in nature, taking in the sights and breathing in the fresh air, especially on sunny days, but all things come to an end. As the days grow colder and shorter, you might find yourself deciding the boating season is finally over for the year. However, before simply storing the boat under a tarp until next spring, there are a few things you should do to ensure that it remains in good quality and lasts for years to come.

Consider that your boat is likely to sit in disuse for the next several months. If you simply store it as is, you’re likely to find a corroded, gummed up mess when you next decide you’d like to take it out onto the water. Engaging in some simple routine maintenance will go a long way in prolonging the life of your boat and preventing it from suffering any long-term damage, which could result in expensive repairs.

Here are a few winter maintenance tips to help you get started:

• Examine all the moving parts, such as the propeller, anchor chain, and pump to make sure everything is looking good and there are no cracks or signs of corrosion.
• Treat your fuel to keep it from gumming up the components of your carburetor or fuel injectors.
• Change the oil to prevent corroding the inner workings of the system.
• Prep your engine cylinders for the winter with fogging-solution lubricants.
• Assess the hull of your boat for any damage and reapply layers of wax as needed to keep it protected.
• Clean out the interior by removing any perishables, valuables, or other random items you might have stashed away over the summer.

After you’ve finished with all the maintenance and repairs to keep your boat in storage over the winter, don’t forget to cover it with a tarp to protect it from the elements.

If your boat has suffered significant damage and you’re looking for a replacement, or you simply want to add a new vessel to your collection, simply contact Rogue Jet Boats at (541) 944-2155.