By Christian Bacasa, Host of the Fly Fishing Insider Podcast and FlyFishFinder™ Chief of Sales and Marketing
As winter loosens its grip and the days grow longer, it’s time to start thinking about getting back on the water. If you’re like me, there’s nothing worse than running into preventable issues with your drift boat trailer on that first perfect spring outing. Over the years, I’ve learned that a little preseason maintenance goes a long way in avoiding mishaps. I’ve also discovered that staying compliant with state regulations can save a lot of headaches, especially when traveling to new fly fishing spots. Here’s my go-to spring checklist for getting your drift boat setup ready for the season if you didn’t do that in the fall.
Pre-Winter Trailer Maintenance Checklist
- Inspect the Tires
Start with the basics. Take a close look at your trailer tires for any signs of wear, cracking, or bulging. Don’t forget to check the air pressure—cold temperatures can cause it to drop significantly.
Pro Tip: Replace tires that are older than 5 years, regardless of tread wear. Weathering takes a toll over time. Also, invest in tire covers to protect from weather and especially UV.
- Grease the Wheel Bearings
If you haven’t repacked your trailer’s wheel bearings in a while, now’s the time. Water from ramps and winter storage can cause corrosion. Properly greased bearings not only prevent failure but also make for a smooth tow. - Check the Lights
Hook your trailer up to your vehicle and test all the lights—brake, turn signals, and running lights. Faulty wiring or burned-out bulbs are common after sitting idle for months. Often it is worth tossing some fuses or extra bulbs in the glove box just in case.
Quick Fix: A dab of dielectric grease on the connections can prevent future corrosion.
- Inspect the Hitch and Coupler
Ensure your hitch ball matches the coupler size and that the coupler latches securely. Lubricate moving parts to keep them functional. Don’t forget to inspect the safety chains for rust or damage. It’s a rarity but they can get worn from dragging them or become a pain from rusted clip gates, etc.
Having a put-in like this is a prime example of making sure all your safety linkage is in proper working order. We creatively found some pallets to drag the boat over in this episode. - Tighten the Bolts
Go over the trailer’s frame, bunks, and rollers, tightening any loose bolts or screws. A wrench and a few minutes can prevent catastrophic failures on the road. - Examine the Winch
Test the winch for smooth operation, and inspect the strap or cable for fraying. A failed winch can make loading and unloading your drift boat a nightmare. - Clean and Wax the Hull
While this isn’t directly related to the trailer, a clean and waxed hull not only looks great but also reduces drag in the water. Use this time to inspect the bottom for any damage that might have occurred during winter storage. - Clean and Paint the Trailer
Trailers get hammered with debris. Go over the trailer hit it with a grinder, wire brush, or sandpaper in rusted-up places, and buy an inexpensive can of spraypant to touch it up. A little touch-up each year will go a long way in preserving the trailer for years to come.
Spring Legal Checklist: Permits, Licenses, and Regulations
Getting your trailer and boat ready mechanically is only half the battle. Ensuring you’re legal on the road and water can save you from fines or worse. It also keeps the authorities off your back. There is nothing like
- Check Trailer Registration
Verify that your trailer registration is up to date. If your state requires a separate license plate for your trailer, ensure it’s properly mounted and visible. - Boat Registration and Permits
Make sure your drift boat’s registration and any required state permits are current. Some states require invasive species permits, which help fund programs to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisances.
Tip: Keep a copy of your boat registration and permits in a waterproof bag inside your drift boat.
- Insurance Review
While not all states require trailer insurance, it’s worth checking your policy. Some auto insurance policies cover trailers, while others don’t. Call your agent to confirm. - Out-of-State Requirements
If you’re planning to fish in a neighboring state, research their specific regulations. Many states require temporary permits for non-resident trailers or boats.
Example: States like Montana and Wyoming require invasive species inspections for all incoming watercraft.
- Fishing Licenses
Don’t forget to renew your fishing license! Make sure it covers the states where you’ll be fishing, and double-check whether additional stamps or endorsements are required for specific waters. - Safety Gear Check
Legal compliance often includes having the right safety gear on board. Inspect your life jackets, throwables, and fire extinguishers (if required). Replace any expired or damaged items. Although not the trailer, check your anchor line. Replace a damaged line and remove all knots for safety.
Avoid the Unexpected
A little planning now can mean the difference between a smooth, enjoyable spring and an embarrassing breakdown or fine. Taking care of your trailer ensures you’ll get to your fishing spot without issues while staying legal keeps the focus on the fish instead of worrying about citations.
Whether you’re staying local or traveling across state lines, being prepared means more time on the water and less stress. So, grab your checklist, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get that drift boat setup ready for the season. Tight lines, everyone!
“Preparation is the key to turning that first spring outing into a memorable success.”
Tight Lines!
