Gulf Coast Mariner Boating & Fishing

By Capt. David C. Dillman galvestonbaycharterfishing.com (832) 228-8012

For those of us who live in the coastal communities surrounding Galveston Bay, February signals the return of Mardi Gras celebrations. After all the celebratory decorations, beads, and clothing have been stashed away, trees begin to bud, flowers bloom, and yards need mowing. Yes, that's right: Spring has arrived on the coast. Vacationers will be ascending to the bay and beach. Recreational boaters and anglers will be plying the waters of Galveston Bay, or will they? Many boats end up sitting over the winter, neglected by their owners. Then March comes, the owners are excited to get back out on the bay only to find out their boat will not run. I watch it happen every year, at marinas and boat ramps. Dejected groups of people, returning to their slips, or to boat ramps, just after launching. Don't let this happen to you. The creation of a to-do list, is a must for your boat, in order to have it ready, by Spring. Here are some suggestions to help the process: 1. Clean the clutter. I do this once a year, and it amazes me how much junk can be accumulated in one season of boating/fishing 2. Check all safety equipment: life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, sounding device. Replace as needed. 3. Pumps and flow-thru fittings. Check for proper operation and leaks. 4. Batteries. This is the number 1 failure on boats that sit during the off season. I suggest performing a load test, and replace if needed. 5. Fishing tackle. I accumulate a lot of tackle each year. I suggest downsizing your collection, and keep what works in the boat. Keep fishing simple, you might just catch more fish. 6. The motor. Service the engine now. Don't wait till March. By then, it's too late. If you're mechanically inclined, that's great. Start hunting your parts now, because many are in short supply. If you use a shop, like me, schedule the service. 7. Service that boat trailer. Check your hubs, most importantly. Your list could be bigger or smaller, depending upon your needs and vessel. Just don't procrastinate, you might be left at the dock or worse, stranded in the open water. 8. Last but not least, review your insurance coverage. If you don't have insurance, get it, because your responsible for any and all damage caused by your vessel.

Time To

Prepare For Spring

Spring fishing can be awesome. Prepare now, so your not stranded on the dock.