How to Launch, Retrieve, and Load a Boat on a Trailer

Here are 10 simple steps to follow for launching:

1. Before you get onto the boat ramp, pull off to the side of the road or into the parking lot and prep for the launch without blocking the ramp.

2. Pull the trailer lights. That way you won’t blow a hot bulb when it hits the cold water.

3. Load all your gear into the boat.

4. Remove the transom tie-down.

5. Get a line ready to tie to the dock.

6. Don’t forget the plug!

7. Back down the ramp far enough so the boat starts to float and the outdrives are submerged.

8. Apply the parking brake.

9. Release the bow hook.

10. Back the boat into the water.

When you’re ready to haul out again, just drive it gently onto the rollers or bunks. Be careful not to submerge the trailer too far, because then the bow will wander off the trailer.

Tilt the motor up, attach the bow hook, and you’re ready to go back to the parking lot and secure the boat for the trip home.

—Lenny Rudow

About the author:

Lenny Rudow

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Lenny Rudow is Senior Editor for Dominion Marine Media, including Boats.com and Yachtworld.com. With over two decades of experience in marine journalism, he has contributed to publications including Boating Magazine, Marlin Magazine, Boating World, Saltwater Sportsman, Texas Fish & Game, and many others. Lenny is a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design who has won 28 BWI and OWAA writing awards.

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This feature was posted on Sunday, October 7th, 2012 at 4:00 am and is filed under How To, Video.

Tags: boat ramp, How To, Launching, Lenny Rudow, Trailer, Video