Boating in Winter? Sure, Go for It!

We all know the negative aspects of winter boating: chilly water, cold air, cold everything (need we say more?). Depending on where you boat, and the boat itself, you can get out there far into the fall and even into the frigid temps of winter. You just gotta plan for it.

Of course, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, the Florida Keys and Cocoa Beach afford boating all year round (and we’re jealous about that, just so you know, South Florida). Not so much in places like Connecticut, Rhode Island or Seattle. Though, there are diehard anglers who wouldn’t dare let a little cold air get to them. We salute those hardy folks!

Photo: Pixabay

If you’re feeling down about not being out on the boat, we hear you. Taking a quick cruise can be a real pick-me-up in the winter months. Along with the waterways and boat docks for rent being less crowded, some regions can have actual sparks of sunshine and warmth in the winter, so why not take advantage of it? While you probably won’t want to go tubing and waterskiing or jump overboard, you can still take a nice cruise or sail around the lake, river or bay in your sailboat, trawler, cuddy cabin or sportfishing boat.

Tips to Make Winter Boating Bearable

Check and Change

Obviously, you’re going to take along all the necessary first aid and safety items that you normally would. You should double check all of your boat’s gear and equipment before leaving a private boat slip for rent, including checking the batteries, the prop and the engine. Make sure you have a cell phone and working GPS and VHF radios before leaving a private boat dock rental or marina.

Change the lower unit oil each time you go out. Water can get in and cause corrosion.

Before leaving a boat lift rental, check drains, seacocks, hatches and portholes for leaks, and make sure the seals and plugs are in good shape.

Wear it Well

Photo: Pexels

It’s not likely that you’ll encounter actual icebergs, however, you might feel as if you have (especially if you’re of the warm-blooded sort like ourselves). Wear layers of warm clothing, coats, gloves and socks. It may not be cold on land, but the open water can be more frigid. If something goes wrong, you could be stuck out there for a while before getting back to a boat dock for rent. Remember Mom’s advice about hats? She knows what she’s talking about. Heat escapes from the head and you really will feel so much warmer with one on.

An extra pair of gloves, hats and socks is a good idea in case one gets wet while fishing. Ski goggles can even be helpful for wind chill while the boat is going fast.

Take a hint from the snow lovers. Those little packets of hand and foot warmers really do work.

Bring a Buddy

Don’t go out alone, and let someone on land know you’re going out, where you’re going and when you expect to be back to the slip or private boat lift rental. The float plan is always a good plan.

Creative Seating

If you’re the passenger, sitting backwards and facing the stern can help with cold (if you’re the operator, however, don’t do this). You could also sit on the floor.

Wear that PFD

Wear your life jacket. One, it can help with extra insulation to keep you warm. Two, if you do end up in the water, it can help you survive longer if it’s already on. The shock of icy water could prevent you from quickly acquiring a life jacket or other flotation.

Fill ‘er Up

Photo: Wikimedia

Don’t leave land or a private boat slip rental without a full tank of gas.

Boat Storage

If you live in an area where the water freezes, a boat lift for rent is a handy thing to have. It prevents you from having to trailer the boat back and forth to a ramp and keeps it out of cold and possibly freezing water, which is not good for boats.

Photo: Pixabay

We hope you’ve picked up some winter boating tips to make your next day out safe and enjoyable. Now, let's get wishing for spring! Happy boating!