How to load a boat back on a trailer
Loading is the launch in reverse, with one extra skill: getting the boat lined up on the bunks or rollers.
- Get the vehicle first. Drop off the driver at the dock, then idle out of the way while they back the trailer in.
- Back the trailer in until about two thirds of the bunks are under water. Too deep and the boat floats crooked. Too shallow and it won't slide up.
- Approach slowly and straight, lined up with the center of the trailer. Account for wind and current, which push the boat sideways.
- Winch or drive it on. Many ramps ban "power loading" (driving the boat up the trailer with the motor) because prop wash digs holes at the end of the ramp. Check posted signs. When in doubt, winch it.
- Hook the winch strap and the safety chain to the bow eye before pulling out.
- Tilt the motor up, then pull the trailer out slowly.
- Move to the prep area to pull the drain plug, attach transom straps, and clean off weeds.
Clean, drain, dry
Pull every plant and bit of mud off the boat, trailer and motor before you leave. Drain the bilge, livewell and motor. Many states require this to stop zebra mussels and other invasive species, and some run inspection stations. The state box on each lake page links to your state's rules.