Im not too bad backing down the ramp, etc... Our drive is a couple hundred feet long and narrow, makes for good practice backing down the ramp, thats for sure!

Last time putting in, there was a good 15 - 20 mph crosswind, plus I had a drive out of commission. Everytime I'd come in, the boat would veer off course, even when leading it! Obviously, I eventually got it in, although quite embarassed.

Today there was a light breeze, but no problems. I'm actually pretty good at using forward thrust on one drive, and reverse in the other to skoot the stern over, etc.

I suppose I'll get there, like you all said, its gonna take some time and practice (and I got all summer baby)!

When I get to the launch I pull to the side, take my straps off, put my plug in( keep 2 in the boat and 2 in the truck) open the hatch check my fuel lines, shifter cables and turn my batteries on. While I back down the ramp wy wife holds the line and as soon as the boat floats I am out( takes me about 15 seconds down and up and out of the way) park and back to the boat. All in all it's about a 3 minute process. I do fire the boat up at home to get her warm so there is no problem at the ramp. Been launching boats since I was about 6 with my dad. Take your time and screw the guy behind you with the 1967 tri hull that is fishing where you re trying to put your boat.

One rule - "Never approach anything faster than you plan on hitting it."

I'd always heard it about driving the boat, but it works with the trailer, too.

That and, "If you're gonna be dumb, ya gotta be tough."

I guess my lake avg a 20mph crosswind every day. Best advice when pulling in to trailer is to always have the bow facing towards the wind as much as you can before you turn towards the trailer.

Totally forgot, when putting in, ALWAYS turn on your blower and lift your hatch prior to turning over the motor. I also have a drain plug that is cabled to the inner transom, so there's no chance of losing it.

I made that checklist. I think I'm going to make part 2 as well. Did a walk around prior to pulling off from the marina and had left my drives down!

I did make a list and went through it prior to running down the ramp. I think that was part of my problem. Trying to make certain that I hadnt forgotten anything, while at the same time concentrating on putting in. The list makes it easy.

What a fantastic day today! Great weather!

Ain't that the truth! Seems like they are out there everyday! I always wanna tell them to go anchor in the channel with the rest of their buddies!!


Some great tips here. When you have your wife back up the trailer for the first time tell her to put her hand on the bottom center of the sterling wheel, which ever way she wants the trailer to go move her hand that way. Makes it easier on her.

I had a fisherman yesterday tell me that the lake is "dangerously low! Do you know the lake?"

We didnt get any fisherman comments today, but got the "azzhole cigarette boat" look. Bet they love my wake

I got out both days this weekend and, what a weekend it was!

[QUOTE=Shag555;3691766]I had a fisherman yesterday tell me that the lake is "dangerously low! Do you know the lake?"

Where do you boat? I'm gonna guess TX, with all the drought.

We didnt get any fisherman comments today, but got the "azzhole cigarette boat" look. Bet they love my wake

Fisherman come back: " I been hired to aerate the water so the fish can have more oxygen." lol

Ya where you at? I was referring to the clear lake area as I'm sure that's where B.U.B. was referring to

Northeast Ohio. West Branch, Milton, and Berlin Lakes. Essentially bathtubs, but two of three are less than 3 miles from me. Hoping to graduate to the Ohio River, and eventually Lake Erie later this year. Getting a Coast Guard radio first though.

Love the comeback, by the way!