FAQs - Owning and Operating
How do I register my boat and get a fishing
license?
 The
following links provide information you
need to comply with your state's requirements
regarding safe boater equipment, age restrictions,
licensing and more.
What kind of maintenance do I need to
perform on my boat?
There are a couple of boat maintenance
procedures you will need to perform to make
sure your boat stays in shape for many seasons
to come. Our boat maintenance section includes
everything from spring start-up checklists
and pre-departure tips to information on
boat motor maintenance and winterizing tips.
What is the best place to store my boat?
A key component of recreational boating
is the question of where to keep your boat
when you're not using it. Budget, convenience
and availability play into the equation
and should be part of any boat comparison
process and pre-purchase family discussion.
There are a couple of options you may want
to consider. You won't find a less-expensive
way to keep a boat than storing it on a
trailer in your driveway or backyard. Another
alternative for smaller boats is rack storage,
or dry stacks. A typical rack storage facility
keeps your boat in a covered shed filled
with trailer-like cradles. For owners of
larger boats, and owners of small boats
who crave convenience, a marina slip is
the best way to go.
What are the things I need to consider
when trailering a boat for the first time?
If you've never trailered a boat, there
are several things you need to consider.
First is the towing capacity of your car,
truck or SUV. You can find this information
in your vehicle's owner's manual. Generally,
small family sedans are not safe boater
options for towing, although a small, aluminum
fishing boat may not present a problem,
provided you have appropriate towing equipment
installed on the car. Most standard pick-up
trucks and SUVs can tow boats up to 25 feet,
but again, consult your vehicle owner's
manual for limitations.
What are the costs associated with owning
and operating a boat?
Naturally, comparison prices for new boats
vary depending on size and make, but many
boat manufacturers and dealers can put you
in the captain's chair for considerably
less than a monthly new-car payment. In
fact, monthly payments for many entry-level
boats can be less than $200. Learn more
about ongoing costs of owning a boat. |
