Your boat is an investment worth taking care of.  Yearly maintenance is a must, especially concentrating on preventative care so you can stop problems before they start.  Boats vary in size and usage - with each requiring specialized care.  Use this list as your beginning guideline for your general boat maintenance.

• Be sure all batteries are clean, charged and filled.

• Be sure there is no fishing line wrapped around the prop.

• Change lower unit oil twice a year.  Be sure there is no water in the oil.

• Change your spark plugs once a year, even if they don't look like they need it.

• Check all equipment such as depth finders, radio, gps, and radar.

• Check all your fuses, as well as your electrical wiring.

• Check and lubricate steering.

• Check hull for stress fractures.

• Check kill switch lanyard and key. If it is worn, the engine won't start.

• Check prop for dings.  Check blades to be sure they are not bent.  The prop should be balanced at all times.

• Check the wheel bearings of your trailer and replace the seals.

• Check your switches twice a year.

• Engine mounting bolts should be tight.

• Inspect fuel and oil hoses.  Replace if needed.

• Motor fuel filter should be clear.

• Oil your trailer jack with waterproof grease.

• Recharge trolling motor batteries after each use.

• Turn on your aerator to be sure it is working properly.  Be sure there are no cracks.

• Turn on your bilge pump to be sure it is in working order.  Be sure there are no cracks.

• Check expiration dates on flares and fire extinguishers.

• Turn on your lights to be sure both the lights and switches are working correctly.  Check your trailer as well.