Have you just acquired a boat? Or are you thinking of purchasing one? You may be feeling overloaded with the amount of responsibilities involved in boat ownership, including having to actually launch it. Read on for a few easy steps to keep in mind for the first time you take your boat out on the water.

  1. When you pull up to the boat ramp, load your equipment into the boat. Do not do this while on the ramp because that should be used only to get in and out of the water quickly.
  2. Insert your drain plug.
  3. When backing your boat into the water, be sure to stop when the tires start to become submerged.
  4. Put your car in park with the emergency brake on and remove any straps that are tied to your boat.
  5. Slowly back up the boat until its motor is in the water. Start up the engine and let it run for a minute or two to make sure sure it’s running properly.
  6. Continue backing the boat into the water, then disconnect the winch cable when the boat begins to float.
  7. If you are by yourself, guide the boat over to the dock quickly to tie it securely. This allows you to move your vehicle and trailer off the ramp. If you are with a friend, they can drive the boat off while you find a parking spot.

With these simple steps, you can launch your boat with ease at any of the lakes along the Alabama Bass Trail!