Launching A Small Aluminum Boat: A Step-By-Step Guide

Launching a small aluminium boat can be a challenging task, especially for beginners. However, with the right knowledge and preparation, it can be a safe and straightforward process. Here are some essential steps to follow when launching a small aluminium boat: Firstly, ensure you are in a staging area and that your boat is prepared with the necessary checks, such as confirming the drain plug is installed and the key is in the ignition. Load all your gear, including fishing tackle, and ensure the motor is tilted to avoid any damage when backing up. Next, reverse your vehicle with the boat trailer attached slowly down the ramp towards the water, making adjustments as needed. Once the trailer is in the water and you can see the back of the boat start to float, put your vehicle in park and engage the parking brake. Now, release the trailer winch and safety chain, and use a bow line to guide the boat off the trailer and into the water. If you are alone, use a long rope attached to the front of the boat to control its movement. Finally, secure your boat to the dock, and park your vehicle to clear the ramp for other boaters.

Attach a long rope to the front of the boat

When launching a small aluminium boat, attaching a long rope to the front of the boat is essential for solo launches. This rope, along with the trailer and your car, are crucial equipment when launching without a helper.

Firstly, tie one end of the long rope to the front of your boat and the other end to a secure point inside your truck bed. Ensure the rope is long enough for the boat to come off the trailer completely. Once the boat is floating, untie the rope from the truck bed and use it to guide the boat to where you need to. You can then use the same rope to tie off the front and back of the boat to the dock before parking your truck.

If you are launching without a dock, you can use a long bow-hooked rope to guide the boat past the trailer and towards the shore.

In either case, the rope is an essential tool to control the boat and ensure a smooth launch.

Have all your gear ready before launching

Launching a small aluminium boat can be a challenging task, especially for beginners. One of the most important things to remember is to have all your gear ready before launching. This ensures that you are prepared and ready to go as soon as your boat hits the water, avoiding any delays or frustrations. Here are some detailed instructions to help you get all your gear ready before launching your small aluminium boat:

Firstly, make sure you have all the necessary equipment and gear organised and within easy reach. This includes items such as fishing rods, tackle, coolers, tubes, skis, and any other gear you plan to use during your outing. It is also important to ensure that your gear is securely loaded and won't shift or move during the launch.

Secondly, check that the drain plug is installed correctly. This is crucial as it prevents your boat from filling up with water. A simple mistake like forgetting the drain plug can ruin your day, so it is always best to double-check. It is also a good idea to insert the key and turn it to the "on" position to ensure the battery is charged and the electrical system is functioning.

Thirdly, prepare your boat's motor. Make sure the motor is tilted up to avoid any damage to the propeller or skeg during the launch. If you have a jackplate, ensure it is in the upright position as well. Additionally, consider mounting your electronics before entering the water to avoid any accidental drops or damage.

Next, inspect the boat access and launch area. Look for any underwater hazards or potholes that could cause issues with your trailer tires or tail lights. Ensure the launch area is free of obstacles and the water is deep enough for your boat to float off the trailer. Also, consider the wind and current conditions, as they will impact the direction of your boat once it's in the water.

Finally, if you are launching alone, consider attaching a long rope to the front of your boat. This will allow you to control the boat once it's in the water and guide it to the dock. You can use this rope to tie off the front and back of the boat to the dock before parking your vehicle.

By following these instructions and having all your gear ready before launching, you will be well-prepared for a smooth and efficient boat launch, even if you are doing it solo. Remember to stay calm, work carefully, and don't be afraid to ask for help if needed.

Check the drain plug is installed

Checking that the drain plug is installed is a crucial step when launching a small aluminium boat, or any boat for that matter. This is because, without the drain plug, your boat will quickly fill up with water.

The drain plug is often referred to as the 'key' to launching a boat. It is one of the first things you should check before you even get to the ramp. It is good practice to put the drain plug in before you leave home, so you don't have to climb into the boat to do it. This will save you time and effort when you arrive at the staging area.

It is also important to check the drain plug is installed before you launch the boat into the water. This is to ensure that you don't forget in the excitement of the moment. The drain plug is a crucial component of your boat, and forgetting to install it could ruin your day out on the water.

Checking the drain plug is installed is a simple task, but it is an important one. It is a good idea to get into the habit of checking it before you leave for the ramp and again when you are at the staging area. This will ensure that you don't forget and that your boat remains afloat when you launch.

Prepare to put the boat in the water

Before you get to the ramp, make sure the drain plug is in. If it isn't, your boat will fill up with water. You should also load all your gear, including fishing tackle, coolers, tubes, and skis.

When you arrive at the ramp, find a staging area away from the waterline to check that you have everything and that your boat is ready to launch. Check that the drain plug is installed and the key is in the ignition. Turn the key to the 'on' position to make sure the battery is charged and the electrical system works, but do not start the engine—you'll damage the water pump.

Add your dock lines and fenders. Your boat has special cleats at the bow and stern to attach dock lines. Once the dock lines are in place, add fenders on the dock side of the boat to protect the sides from bumping the dock.

Unhook the trailer's electrical supply from the trailer hitch on your tow vehicle. Next, remove the tie-down straps from the back of the boat.

If you have a helper, they should get into position so you can see them in your left-hand mirror. If you're alone, you can use a long rope attached to the front of your boat and your truck bed to guide the boat off the trailer.

Reverse down the ramp slowly

When you're ready to reverse down the ramp, get your vehicle in position with the stern (back) of the boat facing the water. Start far enough away from the water that you have time to adjust your trajectory to put the boat in straight. Back in slowly, giving yourself time to correct if needed.

Use your side mirrors to guide you. Place one hand at the bottom of the steering wheel and watch the trailer in your mirrors. If you want the trailer to go left in your mirror, move your hand to the left, or to the right to steer the trailer to the right in your mirror.

Reverse down the ramp until the trailer tires touch the water and then check if the stern of the boat is deep enough to start to float. If not, reverse a little further down until it does. You'll know you've gone far enough when the stern of the boat begins to float.

Remember, take your time. Boating courtesy dictates working quickly, but safety comes first, so stay calm and don't rush.

Frequently asked questions