How To Launch And Retrieve your Boat Solo | The Fish Locker

I have seen so many people make really hard work of this job, but with a little pre planning and preparation it can be stress free and safe. I launch and retrieve my boat by myself and find this simple method to be very successful.
#smallboat #boatowner #fishingboat #boatlaunch

[@christopherjames-mills1094]

Thanks for making this. Looking to get my first little Orkney soon and this and the other boat owner basics are an absolute perfect learning opportunity. Appreciate it

[@TheFishLocker]

- I love Orkneys. And it is our pleasure, I hope the videos help folks out. 😊

[@monzsterman]

thanks for the video. I just recently got a used jon boat to do some resiviour fishing and am new to towing. this helps out alot!

[@TheFishLocker]

monzsterman - Thats brilliant. I am glad this helps. 👍🏻😊🛥

[@andrewraybould2336]

Another great film John. I would add fuel and fuel tanks to the checklist, I wouldn’t like to say how many times I’ve driven off and left the tanks at home “safe” in the garage!!

[@TheFishLocker]

- Haha. Thankfully I have never done that. But then again, they are either on the boat or in the van. So they don’t get forgotten - even if I do “forget” them. I’m glad you enjoyed the vid. And good comment. 👍🏻😊🛥

[@oths1234]

Ah checklists. So useful. Been using them for years. I've put them on the computer & print them off when going out. I use a clipboard & check items off as I go before I leave home. We used to camp in provincial parks so I had a list for all the camping gear, food and clothes. Another for fishing gear i.e. net, bait, rods tackle boxes etc & lastly boat, life jackets, paddles and GAS TANK etc. Yep... left the tank at home once. :-) Excellent launch video John!

[@TheFishLocker]

- Thanks Eric, I completely agree. Lists are simple, logical and a great time saver.

[@barlow2976]

@@TheFishLocker I printed and laminated instructions for the radio/distress button, and made sure mates knew how to hit the man overboard button on the navigator, so if I was in the water they could backtrack to me. Important that others know how everything else works.

[@nigelharland8528]

Very good video when retrieving boat keep to the side this allows another boat to be retrieved at the same time!

[@TheFishLocker]

Very true. This was filmed like it was in the centre of the slip to show everything as clearly as possible. 😊

[@barrywood5357]

Absolutley love your vids . I am a disabled ex angler who gets so much enjoyment from what you do. As for the check list as a pilot i used check lists every flight for all actions that we do like pre landing checks take off sometimes we memorised these but with the advent of tecnology and things like garmin and other electric map utilities you can use these for your lists . Keep up the good work and tight lines

[@TheFishLocker]

Keep things simple and logical and you have a lot less problems don’t you mate.

[@TeddyLindsell]

You do make it look easy, which it should be if properly organised. I once messed up due to a strong onshore wind, that pushed the waves over the transom…that was hairy …I got the tide wrong..easy done …nice video John, love your playlist mate 👍

[@CJA150179]

One thing I got told a long time ago was, when you get to the slipway wait atleast 30 minutes to an hour before you put your boat in.. that gives time for your wheel bearings on your trailer to cool down.. if you launch your boat straight away the cold water on your warm wheel bearings will cause a vacuum in your bearings and suck water into the bearings.. then destroying your bearings...

[@TheFishLocker]

- I haven't heard that one.

[@Chris-Caddy]

Not seen any other video on this subject as good as yours. Brilliant video. Thanks for sharing

[@TheFishLocker]

Chris Caddy - I’m glad you think so Chris. Thankyou for taking the time to comment. Unfortunately this is a subject where no one is prepared to tell you how to do it, but the minute I’ve posted a video, everyone seems to be an expert.lol. This video has had more dislikes than any other video I have ever made - and yet no one is prepared to say why they either disagree or dislike it? You get that quite a bit with boating and boat owners. 🤷🏻‍♂️🛥

[@Chris-Caddy]

@@TheFishLocker Well this video has gained you another sub from me keep up the good work! I dream of having my own boat one day but for the moment I just want be a sponge and absorb as much information I can on the subject! Take no notice of the trolls this video alone has given me the confidence that I could indeed launch on my own. Thanks again mate.

[@TheFishLocker]

Chris Caddy - Thankyou for that Chris. I was feeling pretty glum about doing future vids but hearing this has gee’d me up a bit. I am going to be building the “small boat owner/user” playlist over the next week so hopefully there’ll be some more for you to absorb. 😉👍🏻🛥

[@Chris-Caddy]

@@TheFishLocker sounds good to me mate I can't wait just sat binge watching your videos now! I don't know how you find the time to make so many I have just started my own channel and have only found the time to upload 1 video in a month! I don't even have kids like you! Your sons cute by the way! My channel is called craft against all odds if you fancy having a look it's a video on how I make my strops for knife and tool sharpening. I'm glad I have gee'd you up mate your content is quality and your channel is huge compared to mine I dream of the day I have that many sub's. All the best mate keep it up.

[@garymurray4878]

Excellent film John, good info and common sense,👍👍🎣🎣

[@TheFishLocker]

gary murray - Thanks Gary. Most things are just common sense but you’d be surprised.haha. 👍🏻😬🎣

[@andrzejslosarczyk3086]

Great job, safety first. All you have done in that video it's familiar to my everyday job, couple and uncouple truck trailers. I'm new to sea fishing, and your videos, knowledge are best lecture for me. Thank you

[@TheFishLocker]

- It is our pleasure. I hope that our videos help people out. 😊

[@hughrobertson7242]

Awesome 👏 makes it look easy-with all the right prep! 👍

[@TheFishLocker]

A bot of time spent with logical prep saves so much drama. 😊

[@ianlamb1910]

Great video just bought my first boat! Thanks for the help 👏

[@TheFishLocker]

- Any time Ian. 😊

[@NearbyCactus]

Excellent video with good points John! To add a little advice for others, every boat & trailer is different, but I've found it better to have the trailer not so deep in the water. A good rule of thumb for the boats I have experience with is to have the water halfway up the trailer wheel covers. I find the boat settles into the right position on the retrieve, and slides off without issue when launching. And as an added bonus the car hardly gets wet. Should be noted that I am dealing with boats that are a bit heavier, and the trailers have self-centering rollers. And on recovery I have to drive the boat onto the trailer, as the pier is a bit of distance from the slip.

[@TheFishLocker]

Tim Elley - Thankyou for the added points. I personally find that if the trailer is too shallow in the water you end up having the put the boat at a sharper angle bringing it onto/off the trailer. But as you say, each is different.👍🏻🛥 All the best mate. 👍🏻

[@NearbyCactus]

@@TheFishLocker Absolutely right! I also noticed that your boat sits quite high on the trailer which will be a good reason to go deeper. My trailer is more "v" shaped, with the boat more cradled by it. Which means at a given depth my boat is more in the water than yours.

[@TheFishLocker]

Tim Elley - That makes perfect sense. Again, great comment for folks reading through for more info. 👍🏻😉🛥

[@sea78x]

Always wanted a boat but I live in Birmingham. This vid has made it possible bro - so thanks 🙏🏼

[@TheFishLocker]

My pleasure bud. 👍🏻

[@marktindal2186]

Perfect vid thanks, launching from Penzance solo on the tide today. :)

[@TheFishLocker]

SparksWillFly - Glad you found it helpful. Penzance is a good slipway. Just be wary it can get slippy with weed and it flattens off at the bottom so if it’s a big tide you might not get the boat on/off. Good luck. 👍🏻🎣🛥

[@jimquantic]

Let me point out something REALLY important--how far down his truck has been backed. IF that truck is too far back, the boat will sail right over the bunks and maybe cause damage. His truck is EXACTLY the correct distance back, notice his back wheels on his truck are BARELY touching the water--THIS IS KEY. Not far enough back is bad, too far back worse maybe. In fact, too far back is how people lose their truck, error on the side of caution, start out not far enough, then ease back--careful, just a bit at a time and do all you can to not bury the ass end of your truck in the drink. Remember too sometimes different parts of the ramp are DEEPER--usually the center, try that if you are having trouble and always, always, always, DO NOT RUSH. Take your time, that's the ticket mate. SPECIAL NOTE: Notice when he RETRIEVES the boat, the back tire of his Van barely touches water, but when he put in, he was a little deeper. Try to keep it right where he had it on retrieve, when you launch. I see people go too far back, way too often.

[@TheFishLocker]

One of the most important things I can mention about your point is knowing what the tide is doing. If you have a large flooding tide and you go to your back wheel. It does not take long before the water will rise up to your enhaust and any complications can result in the car getting swamped. Much safer to launch on a falling tide. 👍🏻😊

[@jimquantic]

@@TheFishLocker I had never thought of the tide--though on ONE occasion I saw someone trying to retrieve while an Active Tsunami was happening--far away of course, but they needed to pull out quickly so one guy kept the truck running and in gear while the other guy crammed it in, and he pulled up right now--tying it all down 100 feet or so up before they stopped. But normally I must say, my launch operation is fast enough that normal tide movement--as you know, quite slow, has never been a factor in those few minutes.

[@allencooke8925]

I think you may have missed an important item for check list. BUNG IN. Seen it left out in the hussell and bussel of launching. A good friend of mine got all the way to his mark. Oups left rods on drive. We now have a new mark Trev No Rods. Borrowed spare rods and had an awsome day on the bass.

[@TheFishLocker]

Allen Cooke - Check 08:03. “Plug in!!!” It’s on the list mate. 😉haha. I’ve got all the way to a mark and realised I have the tip section and but section from different rods. Worse than useless.haha.

[@allencooke8925]

@@TheFishLocker I have it on my check list for setting off from home that way you don't forget whilst prepping to launch of leave it at home.. Mine is attached on a tether and hangs down when out. So you don't loose it. I also carry a spare. Enjoy your videos keep up the good work.

[@TheFishLocker]

Allen Cooke - I have mine on a string aswell mate. But also have a spare and a couple of wine corks just in case. 😉

[@mboutdoors_uk]

Great video mate. Will be taking the plunge soon and getting my first boat so I'm binging all your vids to be as ready as I can be. Bit nervous, but very excited!! Thanks again 👌

[@TheFishLocker]

Good luck with the boat.

[@philmcdonald4778]

Best channel on the topic. No loads of irritating music .... no giving us your life story every time we tune in. Just 100% info . Many thanks

[@TheFishLocker]

Phil McDonald - My pleasure Phil. All the best. 👍🏻😉🛥

[@flatbit3090]

Another great Video. Relaxing easy to follow. How many times have I seen people rushing around making mistakes. Saying that though I've left the bilge bung out a few times then having to get a wet sleeve putting the bloody thing in at sea. Keep up the good work

[@TheFishLocker]

- I know exactly what you mean. If you are organised you don't need to rush. Just be methodical. And yes, I am also guilty of forgetting the bung once.lol. Lessons learned the hard way are often lessons remembered. ;)

[@MarineEngineer1989]

What a skilled and inspiring man

[@TheFishLocker]

I hope the video helps folks out. 👍🏻

[@davidbooth1100]

Great video John, some launch area that m8, straight onto the pontoon.

[@TheFishLocker]

David Booth - There’s a few in my local area that are good like that. But very busy at certain times of day. I’m usually up and out before the seagulls have even woken up. 😛😉👍🏻🎣

[@tonymorris1743]

Hi John. What an informative video. Well done. It was good to see the Orkney 520 in and out of the water. I have the exact same boat, even the hull and anti foul colour are the same. I have mine in a secure yard and it’s launched and retrieved by the staff there, with me in it. Expensive and time restrictive, but dead safe. The first time I trailed my boat I had an accident reversing in a car park (tricky to manoeuvre those single axle trailers)and it has sort of put me off. After watching your vid I may have another try. It would save me £1300 a year!. I take it you flush your engine out when you get home? All the very best. Tony

[@TheFishLocker]

Tony Morris - Thankyou Tony. The 520’s are nice boats aren’t they. And yes reversing them can be tricky, it’s just a practice thing. The smaller 440 I had before was even harder due to it being shorter - but you could take it off the hitch and walk by hand. I either have a hose pipe and flush it from the top of the car park or yes just at home. 😉👍🏻🛥

[@oppowerpuff6337]

I did all this for the first time last week. Took me a while but the slip went down onto a small cove so I wasn't in anybody's way thankfully! 😂

[@TheFishLocker]

OP powerpuff - How did you get on? It can be nerve wracking at first but practice makes it easier. 👍🏻🎣🛥😊

[@oppowerpuff6337]

@@TheFishLocker it was great. I have watched lots of videos on small boat fishing so had an idea of what to expect. My boat looks so big on the trailer but when you are out in the sea it's like a bathtub! Haha

[@damonsimmons8198]

Nice video mate. Demonstrates the number one rule - stay calm!

[@TheFishLocker]

Number 1 rule in life. 😉👍🏻

[@MickHodd]

The little one getting excited watching daddy. lol

[@kellergibson5643]

I have being watching your videos for some weeks now catching up on them. Another nice video John could you do a tutorial video on splicing? regards :)

[@TheFishLocker]

- Hi there Keller, we have some splicing videos on our sister channel "The Fishlocker Workshop" kzbin.info/door/5m9iHPfrHZZ-cNY0--BC0A

[@kellergibson5643]

@@TheFishLocker hi John i didn't know you had another channel i guess i have to catch on them too perfect for this days. Lol Thanks and kind regards from Gibraltar:)

[@TheFishLocker]

Keller Gibson - We spilt the content so that we could keep the more technical stuff aside from the fishing and foraging. 😊👍🏻

[@Goldshot123]

Great video! I bought a Shetland 460 with a nice trailer and a good running Honda 20 4 stroke on it. It’s my first boat and I don't have any experience, so I actually used all your ideas and suggestions from this video, went out to the water 3 times now, it helped me greatly! Thank you very much!! Do you have anything on the maintenance of the outboard? Please, keep up the good work!

[@SpicyAngler]

Nice video John. I know it is always a lot of details and effort. I’m launching a kayak with all the gear and weight it is difficult. True to have a check list already forgot some essentials when was on the beach 2 hrs from home.

[@TheFishLocker]

CastaNet Fishing & Kayak Adventures - Like I keep saying. Time spent on prep the night before etc will save you so much time and helps prevent those “oh no!!! Moments when you realise what you’ve forgotten.lol.

[@SpicyAngler]

Yes always load yak all gear in car and yes I have a check list which is general one and one that during the planing period I make based on the type of fishing I’m planing to do

[@TheFishLocker]

CastaNet Fishing & Kayak Adventures - Very sensible. 👍🏻🎣

[@ivogago6140]

Hello, i have a 16ft boat and a berlingo like you....i added a trailer tongue extension (diy) under the trailer just for launching the boat without have to go to the water with the wheels.

[@TheFishLocker]

- Good thinking. ;)

[@ThePaultap]

A very helpful video. One aside though, personally I would back your towing vehicle up as you have shown, but I would switch the engine of the vehicle off and park your car in gear before getting out. That way, if your handbrake fails for any reason, your car will remain stationary. The way you do it, if your handbrake fails, the weight of the fully laden trailer with the boat on, could drag your car backwards down the slipway into the water. with possibly very damaging results. Just my personal opinion though. For the same reason, If I park my car on a hill, I always park it in gear, so it can't accidentally run away if the handbrake fails.

[@TheFishLocker]

- There are arguments for both Paul. Not saying your way is wrong. But what happens if I turn my engine off and I'm on the slip and it won't start again for whatever reason?

[@ThePaultap]

The Fish Locker - This is true, though in an emergency situation, if a manual car won't start, you can still move it a short distance if your battery is ok. If you put it in first gear with the hand brake off and turn the key, the power of the starter motor will still move the car forward without the engine starting. It will be a bit jumpy though, this technique can be used to move a car, say if your car stops and leaves you parked in a dangerous position, like on a blind bend, if you have run out of fuel for example. I have used this method before to move a car a short distance, like 20 yards. A compromise could be engine left running and then chocks put behind the front wheels so the car can't be dragged backwards on the slipway. I only say this as I had a car run downhill off a drive once, due to a dodgy handbrake cable - even though my car was always well serviced. This is not meant as a criticism, just food for thought! Please keep up the good work, as your channel is very interesting, I watch it very often 👍

[@t7612-v6h]

I remember the episode of Family Guy where he fails to launch the boat, then just drives it in car first in the end, lol.

[@TheFishLocker]

- Haha. I've seen that one. :D

[@steveparkinson8887]

Can't see a vlog but I'd appreciate a one on costs associated with running boat about the size of yours. Great vids. Thx

[@TheFishLocker]

Steve Parkinson - I have a little video about the costs involved in buying/owning a boat in editing as we speak. Should be up soon. Nothing flash, just an honest run down of things and costs associated with boat owning. 😉👍🏻

[@aquaholich2051]

Usual Great content, Hopefully revisit this one once ive saved for me big RIB to raid the North coast

[@TheFishLocker]

Aquaholic H20 - Thanks bud. Good luck with the RIB. 👍🏻🎣

[@darrenrodd.]

Awesome vid I'd love to.own a boat but so much to learn about the sea etc 🎣

[@TheFishLocker]

darren rodd - No one is born knowing this stuff mate. Best thing I would recommend is join a fishing/sailing club and get talking with boat owners. Then maybe go off on a couple of trips with folks. People will often be glad of someone wanting to share the fuel costs of a day’s fishing and use it as a learning experience. 👍🏻😉🛥

[@Inshore_Angler]

Some very good advice again. Should get the kid to do some commentary too lol

[@TheFishLocker]

Chris O'Sullivan fishing - Haha. He features in lots of the vids. Some you can see him, others you just hear him.haha. 🤣👍🏻🎣🐟

[@Inshore_Angler]

@@TheFishLocker ha its all good though. Him being told to ssh is gas lol

[@TheFishLocker]

Chris O'Sullivan fishing - We usually have a kinder egg hidden someone to keep him quiet when we need him to to calm down.lol. 😉👍🏻

[@brynmitchell5774]

Great help ! I see your boat is an Orkney L L..is it the mark 2 ,John ? Mine is the mk 1 displacement hull and I have been told that there is no point in going bigger than a 10 HP..it came with a 10HP so I am using that , its very ploddy though, doubt it gets even 8 mph, do you have any advice regarding this please ? I really need a console with wheel steering did you fit yours or did come with it installed ?

[@TheFishLocker]

bryn mitchell - Mine is a 520 so just the newer version of the strike/long liners. Mines 16ft and could take a 40 but I’m happy with the 30. My previous was a 14ft 440 with a 15hp tiller steer. I enjoyed it. I wouldn’t know where to direct you about converting tiller to console steer. Sorry. 🤷🏻‍♂️🛥👍🏻🎣

[@andrewbradford5028]

Excellent cheers mate

[@TheFishLocker]

My pleasure Andrew. 😊

[@riggznthat1004]

so thankful for your time and efforts making content 😌 👍

[@TheFishLocker]

My pleasure Simon. I hope the videos help people out. 😊

[@richardwelkiv8325]

What a sweet little boat . But I can tell you from hard learned experience if I ever walked on my trailer frame / rails I'd be sitting on my arse !!!

[@TheFishLocker]

richard welk iv - Haha. I have always been quite nimble but I have seen quite a few folks get wet. The boat is an Orkney 520. Just over 16ft and is a great little seaboat and fishing platform. I’m really pleased my kids could grow up enjoying time on the water in it. 😊👍🏻🎣💙

[@richardwelkiv8325]

@@TheFishLocker I heard a lot of little voices in the background . Would that be your crew ??

[@TheFishLocker]

richard welk iv - Haha. Yes that’s my camera crew and entourage. 😉👍🏻🤣

[@filramil]

very good thank you but..: you forgot to put out the bumper fenders to protect the boat from banging against the dock, when you launched. Just a friendly observation

[@TheFishLocker]

👍🏻

[@stuartlloyd1035]

Even tho I don’t have the money for a boat I love watching this had a little boat brought for me for my 16th back in the day and it was great fun. Really respect every thing you do for us viewers 👌👍

[@TheFishLocker]

- I am just trying to help Stuart. Best wishes mate and have a good one. 😊

[@lvrnm5236]

Un vídeo muy interesante. ¿Es la furgoneta lo suficientemente fuerte como para remolcar el barco? Gracias y saludos desde España

[@TheFishLocker]

Yes. As you see it does it fine.

[@mikeaustin6955]

One thing you forgot to mention is ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOUR BATTERY / BATTERIES ARE FULLY CHARGED before you set out and the terminal's and clamps are clean and secure . As a marine engineer I've had attend hundreds of breakdowns caused by flat batteries and dodgy clamps.

[@TheFishLocker]

- Very true.

[@rikblythe145]

Mate you helped me so much with this video. My first ever launch yesterday and it went like clock work all thanks to your check list system and tips. Top man

[@TheFishLocker]

- That right there is why I made the video. If the videos help folks out then they are worth making. 😊

[@australianoutback]

Saves people getting pissed off... Sadly humans are dumb and boat ramps will always have idiots

[@petemills5130]

So helpful cheers

[@TheFishLocker]

- It is our pleasure Pete, I hope this helps folks out. :)

[@markdunbar8219]

I'm looking for a boat started off looking at ribs now looking at larger fishing boats I feel I'm getting carried away now not sure what I'll end up with 🚣...🛳😱

[@TheFishLocker]

Mark Dunbar - Have you seen my video on things to consider before buying a boat? It might help you refine your expectations. 👍🏻🎣🛥

[@markdunbar8219]

The Fish Locker yes have watched it 👍🏻 I'm going to view a Shetland 535 sat with 30hp Yamaha 4stroke outboard with a 2stroke Susuki 2.5 as backup hopefully all will be sound on it 😁

[@TheFishLocker]

Mark Dunbar - Good luck. 👍🏻🛥

[@paulwadsworth8203]

New subscriber incoming..thanks for this very informative video.

[@TheFishLocker]

My pleasure Paul, welcome to our channel.

[@PhreddCrintt]

Excellent John.

[@TheFishLocker]

Mike Otley - Just trying time help folks out. 😊👍🏻

[@PhreddCrintt]

@@TheFishLocker I remember the 'fun' my Dad had launching his back in the '80's!! LOL!!! (He wouldn't 'listen'! ;-)

[@jamslockyer]

That was a quiet day at M!

[@TheFishLocker]

Late at night. 😉

[@mickheathcote4570]

enjoyed that john, forgetting you're keys made me giggle. I forgot my rods once, 40 mins from home, it wasn't so funny at the time though.

[@TheFishLocker]

Mick Heathcote - Haha. I can imagine. The number of times I’ve forgotten the bait that’s sitting in the fridge or something is ridiculous. Which is why now I do it all the night before - or write a list. One time a few years back my wife and I drove and hour home before realising we had left the rods on the beach. 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@foragefishbikeboat]

Could do with some of those Teflon rollers you mentioned.

[@TheFishLocker]

- They are great.

[@alanscott.online]

Great video John. I'm now 70 and wanting to get back to boating at a managable size like the one you have. Is that an Orkney Fastliner 16?

[@TheFishLocker]

- Essentially it is. Its an Orkney 520. Which is just the newer version of the flatliner. ;)

[@colinphilpott3700]

Outstanding helpful vid. Great instruction and hints. Nice 1 John.

[@TheFishLocker]

Colin Philpott - Thankyou Colin. Glad you are finding the videos informative. All the best mate. 👍🏻🎣🛥

[@xMeta4x]

Did you remember to take fuel?!

[@TheFishLocker]

xMeta4x - Always. 😬 I have 2 tanks. And they’re always either on the boat full or in the van. So even if they get forgotten. They’re not forgotten. 😉

[@GSXRI300]

nice job

[@martinwilliams6069]

You only forget the bung once.....believe me ha ha. That looks like a cracking slip to launch from.

[@TheFishLocker]

- Haha. Everyone has mate , don't feel bad. :P

[@davidgarrett7463]

Hi Great video I have the same set up as you , what auxiliary do you use as a back-up, long or short shaft I have the same auxiliary bracket as you and presume yours is fixed as is mine Thanks.

[@TheFishLocker]

- I don't use an aux. I found it affected the balance too much

[@diggerproud1]

Nice having that walkway. We have a slipway with rocks either side & nowhere to tie off while you retrieve the car/trailer.

[@TheFishLocker]

That sounds a nightmare!!!

[@andrewfrost8422]

Brilliant .. Maybe a side fender buoy or two depending on launch site, when leaving boat to park car.

[@TheFishLocker]

Yes mate.

[@Eiael]

Little man is so excited just like mine, love it ❤

[@TheFishLocker]

He’s a treasure.

[@IOMFishing]

Keys and bung, keys and bung....my own personal mantra but still wish I had a quid for every time I've had to go back for the keys. Another top video mate.

[@neilelbourn9241]

IOM Fishing I have to make sure I have four bungs as there is four drain bungs on the boat

[@TheFishLocker]

Gosport Fishing Info - Haha. There are entirely too many holes in that boat mate!! 😛 I’ve forgotten the keys a couple of times in my haste to get fishing, I don’t know an angler that hasn’t.lol. Like I say, I like to get everything ready the day before if I can and even then I still forget stuff.lol. 🤷🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🎣🤣

[@neilelbourn9241]

The Fish Locker oh there is I have to live tanks either side of the engine and two in the deck because there is a curve in there and was always a puddle left after cleaning it

[@akisantoniou2913]

Very simple, I always hide a set on the boat.

[@cjjuddaustralianartist]

Very inspirational, I've dreamed of owning a boat all my life. I should have bought one when I was alive.

[@TheFishLocker]

- Are you no longer alive?

[@cjjuddaustralianartist]

@@TheFishLocker Only my sense of humour lives on LOL

[@ajwalou-nack2343]

Is the public slipway free of charge ? I've read about having to register with the local council and need insurance ? I confused

[@TheFishLocker]

As your local council

[@noname-mq6vw]

Hi from Texas, loving these videos. Is that a north east accent ? Sure not from Cornwall.

[@TheFishLocker]

no name - Spot on. I’m originally from the north east but live down on Cornwall now. Where in Texas are you?😊👍🏻🎣

[@nomad7412]

Hi John. I've seen lots and lots of launching runabouts on youtube and still yet to launch my own boat for the first time and I find your video especially encouraging. The one thing that you might consider though, is a support rod for the motor. It's a specially designed brace that attaches to the trailers rear bar and the brace has a "V" shaped end which lies snug around the bottom part of the Gear casing. This allows the motor to be lowered further than the support pin/lever than normal and gives greater support to the motor.When I purchased the boat, the guy told me he had seen engines tearing themselves from the transom even when supported by the pin/lever. As a result, he made his own brace ( about 60 cm - 75 cm long ), so I'm lucky because, being my first boat I was not aware of this and never seen anything on youtube about these braces.I have since seen them on other boats and now know that they can be purchased from wherever. In Australia ( where I have lived for 17 years), boating and fishing is a massive pastime and they are always looking for ways to protect their boats. This brace seems like a great accessory and I would urge anyone to take a look at them in the hope I have passed on some good info to my fellow boaters/fishers back home. Tight lines to you John :)

[@TheFishLocker]

Nomad - That is a great piece of added info. I must admit I have never seen or heard of one, or if I have I haven’t noticed it. Great bit of added info for folks reading the comments. Thanks mate. 👍🏻🎣🛥😊

[@ryansarath1319]

Never knew these things existed but I knew I'd need something exactly as you described...my outboard weighs a fair bit and I've always been worried about the strain it puts on my transom. Thanks for the info.

[@TheChad138]

I was going to ask what kind of “truck” you used to haul your boat, are “trucks” more of an American thing do you think?

[@TheFishLocker]

- Yes BIG trucks are more of an American thing.

[@officialWWM]

Absolutely! They are compensating for something 😂

[@megagatvol]

Trucks are referred to as a Lorry or Lorries..what John uses is called a Van out here in the UK 🇬🇧

[@Trojwaterman]

Had a friend years ago nicest bloke you could ever meet never angry. But there was just one thing that would really irritate him. When somebody parked on the slipway or blocked it for no reason. Boy would he make it known lol.

[@TheFishLocker]

Trojs Fishing - I have to agree with him. It is just common courtesy and awareness of other people. Folks are generally friendly and helpful. If you’re having trouble they will help. But if you’re just swanning around stopping everyone else getting it’s infuriating!

[@Trojwaterman]

@@TheFishLocker I have turned up on the slip here a couple of times early in the morning over the years with cars parked right in the middle of the slip and they have gone for a walk across the beach. Its just bewildering

[@timmygasman945]

Tend to find they only use that one half of the slipway at Mylor, some people get angry when we steam up on the outside in my rib , rear launch wheels already down , jump out both to the front and pull it straight to the top of the slipway in one seamless motion. Heard a rather posh lady who had been buggering about on the slip for about half an hour say " those people in little rubber boats, I don't know who they think they are" we had packed up and gone before they got their boat out.

[@TheFishLocker]

Trojs Fishing - It absolutely blows your mind doesn’t it! 🤦🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️

[@TheFishLocker]

Timmy Gasman - Haha. I’ve had it a few times when there’s someone messing around and some kayakers laid out all over for half an hour. I just sneak my way through, trailer straight in and boat out and gone before they’ve even got their feet wet.lol

[@Spider_Hamn]

nice video,thanks for a tips ,i just seen the way you step on the trailer with boot i guess it takes some skill to walk like that on the trailer nose ,couse i came off it a few times and since i bought waders :))

[@TheFishLocker]

- Haha. Balance and practice. I have had several wet wellies though. lol .

[@tandemcompound2]

forgot a few--fill boiler, light fire, grease engine. shut all valves, wait for Cat loader. go home, come back next day. Relight fire. Launch. Struggle with keeper pin. run after boat as it goes in to board. Trip on rocks and fall in. Swim to boat. Launched.

[@TheFishLocker]

tandem compound - 🤣🤣🤣 I could imagine that being filmed to a Benny Hill soundtrack. You laugh but I do know someone who took his trailer off the van to move by hand and it got away from him and launched itself. Very lucky not to have damaged it. 😅

[@nigelhaines7900]

Do they have a fresh water hose near by for you to wash your boat and car down that sea water is very corrosive or do you do that when you get home?

[@wraithconscience]

Hello There, great video, two super tips: 1) The checklists -- sure, eveyone thinks they've got the list, but you actually have a list, two in fact. Good organisation tip. 2) Your the first person I've ever see who, once the boat is in the water, turns the boat to face the open water before tying up -- absolutely brilliant manuver !!! It makes it super easy and safe to cast off (without all that head-turning), and it saves masses amounts of fiddling, trying to get the boat parallel to the dock to tie up and go park the car. Absolutely brilliant !!! Cheers, keep safe and God bless !!

[@TheFishLocker]

I hope the video helps folks out. Keep it simple. Keep it logical. Stay safe. 👍🏻😊

[@serradasminasantunes1181]

Mate when you talk about "make sure you don't forget the keys boat 😂😂😂😂 I'm cracking up laughing coz that happened with me but my one it was my reels rods 🙈🙈🙈 one day I woke up and I was late to get my train "from london to Brighton like 70 miles away from where I'm living " so I left my house with my gear and when I get to Brighton and I started to set up my rods I realise I forgot my reels at home 😂😂😂 brother it's was a the worse day of my life, I have to spend my day catch some mussels and sea food to relax my self. .. now I learn to check my stuff one day before I travel😂😂😂😂

[@TheFishLocker]

- Haha. I always do that now. Pack the night before and put it all in the van. I have gone fishing and take the wrong sections of rod. The base of one and the tip of another. So frustrating. Haha.

[@serradasminasantunes1181]

@@TheFishLocker trust me it won't happen again 😅😅😂😂👍👍keep up your good videos ✌✌bless you and family

[@mr_wildgoose]

The checklist idea is something I've also used because there's so much to remember. When you've done it a few times, it becomes a remembered process, and that makes it easier and quicker. Also agree with doing prep the day before if possible - because when you rush, you forget things! This season I've been launching from beaches, which makes single handed launch/retrieving far more difficult - plus always the added risk of getting the 4x4 bogged!

[@TheFishLocker]

mr wildgoose - Definitely. Making a checklist is so simple and really helpful when starting out. Yes beach launches have added problems, I don’t have a 4x4 so stick to slipways unless I can borrow a friends hilux. 😉👍🏻🛥

[@mr_wildgoose]

@@TheFishLocker I only had a Nemo van to pull this boat at first. With a little bit of boat weight on the tow hitch, the front driven wheels would spin for fun. Ramps are often coated with slippy seaweed and I had visions of the boat pulling the van back down the ramp into the water:( Hence the reason I changed it smartish for a 4x4!!

[@TheFishLocker]

mr wildgoose - I have seen that exact thing happen. *Touch wood* never to me though. 🤞🏻🎣🛥

[@martinjustice]

I reckon your missus did the writing on the white board :-)

[@TheFishLocker]

- Nope. My handwriting is much better than my wifes actually.

[@briansilver6196]

Hi John ,that was really enjoyable, quick question, why don't you have a small spare engine on the back ,auxiliary I think it's called

[@TheFishLocker]

Brian Silver - Hi Brian, yeah that’s fine any questions just ask away. I have had an aux engine on her before but I found that it effected the stability of the boat too much for my liking. So I took it off. Just personal preference really. Glad you enjoyed the video. I have been building a playlist called “small boat owner/user” filled with videos like this. There may be a couple more you enjoy and find interesting. 👍🏻😉🛥🎣

[@dpdhogan]

Great vid thanks.. Where did you buy your Teflon rollers from? I can't find Teflon (PTFE) ones anywhere!!

[@TheFishLocker]

- Its a local company. Contact Lizard Trailers in Helston - they might be able to help you.

[@dpdhogan]

@@TheFishLocker Spot on..thanks for the reply.

[@candiceclousegarretson9638]

Great service for all who fish or use their boats for leisure! Straightforward advice and common sense! Rare for some.

[@TheFishLocker]

- Thank you Candice. I hope these videos help people out. :)

[@akisantoniou2913]

Well done but just a couple of comments if I may. I always put a wedge (maybe a rock) at the back of the rear car wheel but you must not forget to remove it when leaving otherwise the trailer will hop over it. Working around water in wellington boots I always consider dangerous because falling in with those boots you will drown. Trying to swim they will drag you down. One way round it is boots with strings on top so they can be made tight or ..nothing wrong with wet feet. Boat keys..I always have a hidden spare set in the boat. Also be careful with a rear wheel drive car (there are some still around) with the rear wheels in the water as they may spin. And finally, like diving and swimming.. avoid doing it alone.

[@TheFishLocker]

Akis Antoniou - Great comments. Thankyou for taking the time. Others have also mentioned about a chock/rock behind the car wheel. Absolutely as you say though, you must remember to remove it before driving off - I even considered rubber ones I could tether to the towbar so I could drag them with me? As for the dangers of using wellies, that is the exact reason I will never wear waders and advise against them. To try and mitigate this I always wear a size too big. So if I fall in I can kick them off my feet. 👍🏻🎣

[@barlow2976]

Nonsense, wellingtons, or even chest waders won't drag you down- the water inside is no heavier than the water outside, and in the case of chest waders you usually have air trapped in them,along with the water. I do a lot of salmon fishing and have gone for a swim more times than I care to mention, one time I had to go with the current for over a mile as there was nowhere to beach myself. Don't expect to get back in a boat with full waders on though.

[@hrob487]

Do you not check you have enough fuel ?

[@geo-s-8530]

I keep spare boat keys and bung in the car in-case a brain fart strikes

[@TheFishLocker]

Geo-s-85 - Thats a good shout. I always used to have a spare bung on the keys and kept them in the van. Now I keep them with the gps and fishfinder. Hopefully they’re important enough to never forget.lol. 🤷🏻‍♂️👍🏻🎣😉

[@stewartbarber6734]

Where did u get Teflon rollers from

[@TheFishLocker]

A local business makes them.

[@dazer123]

Really nice video mate and good to see you wearing an auto inflator life vest, so many boaters don't bother

[@TheFishLocker]

I don’t, mine is a manual. It’s safer for what I do.

[@TW14137]

I've never owned a Yamaha outboard, but on my 2020 Mercury 150 Pro XS , that upper motor latch is said to be a "service latch..not to be used for trailering".

[@TheFishLocker]

These are electric strip you trim them up then slot out some trailering stubs or pins and lower it onto them.

[@doptimist]

Quick question... the extra cleat you have added up beside the seats on the gunwale... how did you fasten them without access to the back of the panel to allow pass through nut and bolt fasteners? Is that tape you have used around the cleat to seal the attachment?

[@TheFishLocker]

It depends on the boat. Usually there is access somehow.

[@archiebob11]

I’ve just ordered my first boat arriving next Mar/Apr and hoping to get a straightforward (easy) launch slipway like this. This video is so helpful John, thank you for taking the time & effort to make all your videos they are great 🚤😊👍

[@adezentje5230]

But why the hurry, that slibway is wide enough to launch 2 boats at the same time next to eachother.

[@archiebob11]

@@adezentje5230 Why reply to my comment with this? This is a great video of how to launch/retrieve a boat and I believe John has very well explained that if/when the launch is busy, the things to do to save time.

[@HouLi]

@@archiebob11 hey mate did it come yet?

[@paula200]

Thanks for the vid. Its obvious now ive seen it! Just one question though? If a slipway doesnt have an adjacent jetty, im guessing you would need at least two people?

[@TheFishLocker]

- Not necessarily, on occasions like that I simply use a longer rope and a sandbag. Push the boat off a little further and leave it tied to a sandbag. Obviously, it is much much easier with 2 people. But not essential. ;)

[@Lutonboy]

2 years on and still a great, helpful video. Thank you.

[@TheFishLocker]

My pleasure Ricky. I hope this video has helped people out. 😊

[@lameduck9]

Very happy memories of fishing in Brittany, Finisterre. My cousin (a boat fisherman for 25 yrs) taught me how to manage launch and retrieve incase anything ever happened to him and your checklists are exactly what I would follow. Great video John

[@TheFishLocker]

- Simple and logical works for me. 😊

[@HarleyBlackwell-n4i]

Hi mate what boat is that? Me and my Partner are looking to get a small fishing boat but have no idea on what's good and what's not, ideally don't want to spend more than 6 grand on a first boat.

[@TheFishLocker]

I have a couple of videos on small boat owning and buying that may help.

[@jimmyflynn1764]

hi I have a worrior 175 I go to a place called knottend near Fleetwood the side of the jetty as concaved steel pilings yes I use bouys but they fall in-between the pilings plus we have the little ferry coming over from Fleetwood every 10 min and all boats have to get out the way ive ask the council if they would put tyres down the side of the jetty to save the ferry and other boat users they said no but as for your vid great stuff I also do a check list oh came back to the jetty 1 day and blow me there was jet skiers with there campervan on jetty having a bbq the mind boggles

[@TheFishLocker]

jimmy flynn - Tell me about it? Crazy some of the things you see. It’s usually kayakers laying all their gear out across the slipway where I am. 🤷🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️

[@paulcrowe5392]

Very sensible at least it won't be you losing a boat on Telegraph Hill A380!!!

[@TheFishLocker]

I hope not. 😉

[@paulcrowe5392]

​@@TheFishLocker Tis bloody frightening when you can see the boat [not on the trailer] sliding towards you and you have a car either side of you and behind you. Very much a case of 'Oh S**t ' and mashing the accelerator hoping to get past the car on the inside lane I made it but had to pull over with a bad case of the shakes.

[@markallanson1289]

Hi Great video, but do you ever solo launch from a beach or slip that doesnt have alanding stage to tie off too, that would be another great addition

[@TheFishLocker]

Mark Allanson - I do occasionally, and a subscriber actually commented with a very useful tip that I now use. They carry 2 sand bags. One for the stern and one of the bow to keep the boat safe whilst you go and sort the trailer etc. 😉👍🏻🎣

[@markallanson1289]

@@TheFishLocker thanks

[@normamacinnes4498]

Hi we have just bought a lovely Orkney 520 but the trailer is not an original one and it only has one keel roller. It looks like your trailer has 4 keel rollers, could you show a picture of your trailer please, as we cant see a picture on the Orkney site of trailers. Thank you.

[@TheFishLocker]

Send me a PM on the Fishlocker fb page 👍🏻

[@trampster7306]

Well done John - another excellent faultless video, and great filming by Hannah - no good producing these videos unless the quality is there and Mrs Fishlocker stormed it! Fantastic advice, common sense, and clearly explained. Being a Trucker, and with 40+ years of owning 4x4's & trailers - only 2 points I would add - a) if you can spare 5 minutes having got your boat in the water, check your trailer wheelbearings for any play whilst the weight of the boat is off the trailer, as after a couple of seasons in Salt water, they can deteriorate quickly, and b) be aware of the weight of your boat and its contents at all times, because if it exceeds 750Kgs, you need a braked trailer, which in turn requires more maintainence. Your boat is probably well below this and your trailer looks fairly new, so these points don't apply to you, but always worth mentioning to other subscribers! Well done Mate !! 👍👍👍😀😀

[@TheFishLocker]

Trampster - Excellent valid comments mate. And great extra info for viewers reading the comments. Thanks for that bud. 😊👍🏻🛥🎣🛠

[@chrisciarrocchi6806]

What make and model of boat is that? What is country of origin? I need a boat like that

[@TheFishLocker]

Chris Ciarrocchi - My boat is called an Orkney 520. The brand of “Orkney” originated in the Orkney’s in the UK and are designed to handle the often difficult waters around the UK. I don’t know if they are available elsewhere but I imagine that they will be. Best thing is to give the a Google. 😉👍🏻🛥

[@ianlaccohee7180]

Thanks for the great video John. It's all about the 7 P's. I'm pleased to see Mrs Fish Locker & junior had some spare time to do the filming for you. Nice looking boat by the way. I'll be looking for something similar when I come back to England, but that will of coarse depend on the budget that the treasurer allows.

[@TheFishLocker]

Ian Laccohee - Thanks Ian. Yes thankfully the team were able to help make the vid. It would have been impossible to film and launch single handed. They are very nice boats, and you could possibly show the treasurer some of the vids of my wife joining me to persuade her for a bigger one. 😉👍🏻🎣🤣 Good luck. 😬

[@pacman4568]

Not far into the video but if your boat has a bung make sure all the water is out and the bung is in. Yes I have been there three mile out to sea why is all this water coming into the boat. Lucky for me I did have the bung with me and I was able to put it in and drain the water.

[@TheFishLocker]

- I have a coupe of corks under one of the seats just in case. It has happened to everyone.haha.

[@whoopwhoop1207]

Water and extra clothing is worth a mention The amount of times I’ve thought it’s nice and warm then after 5-6 hours it’s turn freezing either you or your friends are asking for a jacket. Your much more organised than me hence I’ve forgotten to put my plug in countless times 🤣

[@TheFishLocker]

- That is true about clothing although I have found that clothing kept on the boat often takes on damp. The trick to organisation is list. Many many lists!!! ;)