Written by: zurisana
Few outdoor activities offer the relaxation that comes with fishing; the calm ambiance, nature’s mellow sound and the victory of making a catch. Often, people focus on fishing itself and forget that the boat is one of the most crucial components for a great experience. This then begs the question, how often do people repair their boats? This is typically done after boat restoration. Nothing is more annoying than having your fishing expedition cut short by a boat mishap. To be fair, repairing a boat is no simple task as it requires one to have all the necessary requirements, most preferably written on a checklist. The good news is, despite there being so many makes of boats e.g. wood and aluminum, repairing them is somewhat similar. Here are 5 essential parts to repair on a boat for a successful fishing mission
The engine
Rest assured that if you have a faulty engine, your fishing expedition is as good as done! This is one of the most important parts in a boat. Repairing the engine becomes easier when you have already identified what the actual problem is as there are different ways of repairing it. To keep the gas fresh, you should add some fuel stabilizer to it. For those living in the cold areas, it is advisable to repair the cooling system by flushing it with water.
The propeller
This is the part that helps your boat move forward and backward. When it is faulty or is the wrong fit for your boat there is a need for a replacement as chances of you getting stuck in the middle of the lake are very high. Constant checks of the zinc codes flexibility and the prop shafts will reveal any problems. If there are any broken parts or it is loose, you should seek the services of a professional towing company to bring it to the closest repair shop.
The hull
There are a wide variety of hulls for one to choose from based on their preference. A damaged hull is extremely dangerous. To repair it, the damaged section should be removed including any mold that may be stuck there. A toolkit with similar fabric that is a bit wider than the hole being prepared should be used after the surface has been prepared.
The beam
Being the part that covers a large structural part of the boat, it should be well taken care of. In the event of any rotting evidence, it’s safe to scrub it off. A waterproof epoxy should be used to cover any holes that may be on the beam’s surface, to ensure a safe fishing experience.
The keel
Fishing boats are mostly grounded on the beach or shore when not in use and this leads to the wearing off of the protective gel of the keel. Before going out on the boat that has been on the shore for long, it is important to first smoothen it by sanding it down. Once the bottom is smooth, it should be painted and a new gel coat put over it. This activity is best done by a professional.
The best fishing experience is not only exciting but also safe. This can only be achieved by taking safety precautions and repairing or replacing any damaged and less efficient parts. As a boat owner, it is important to take safety courses and gain knowledge on boat repairs.