Launching Your Boat Solo

[@ethanzortman9012]

Someday I will have a boat... And I will watch this video again to teach me how 😂

[@vincentzito3933]

That day came last week for me... And yesterday I went out by myself and fished and had no problems at the dock. As a matter of fact, when I loaded up some guy told me that I made it look easy... And that was my very first time solo launching and retrieving. Videos like this helped me immensely.

[@alexhopkins21]

Just got mine yesterday! 😃

[@sierratempleton4335]

I had no idea about power loading and the damage it does over time. That is good to be aware of!

[@Connor-zb4uo]

@@eddrichards5000 certain ramps with gravel behind them that are built too short. Most ramps are fine to power load at but the ones not designed for it can ruin them

[@miketurenne7204]

Try this. Unhook all straps and the winch. Hook a rope to your trailer where the winch connection is, hook the other end to the boat at the front where you hook your winch strap. The rope should be a few feet longer than your trailer. Back into the water allowing the boat to come of the trailer tada! You are set

[@501pm_fishing]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@Roeby1263]

Been doing it this way for over 30 years.

[@rm4po4]

Doesn't that risk the boat sliding off the trailer before hitting the water?

[@bobepema355]

That's how I do it too.

[@genejasper4091]

@@rm4po4yes it does. I use this trick but some boat/trailer combos it wouldn’t be safe.

[@gsh341]

I have a problem with the way the boat is disconnected from the dock before you start the boat and the extra agility required to climb over the bow. Just one mistake, one little slip and your boat is floating free out of your control. Also, if you have an engine problem, it's better to be tied to the dock when you find out so you can easily get back onto the trailer. As for me, I prep the boat and part of that prep is both a bow and a stern line. I then back down the ramp. Just before I enter the water, I stop and drop my tailgate. Once the boat is over the water and I can just step out on the tailgate without getting wet, grab the bow line, disconnect the bow strap and with a little pull on the stern line, I get the boat off the bunks and tie it up both stern and bow. I can then park the trailer and head down to the ramp where my boat is waiting, start it up, untie and head out. Loading is similar. I tie to the dock, get the trailer backed down the ramp and just before I enter the water, I stop and drop my tailgate. I then back the trailer to just under the bow, untie the stern, untie the bow and step onto my tailgate. I then just pull my boat onto the bunks, connect the strap to the bow eye, crank it the rest of the way and leave the ramp. It's fast, efficient and you always have 100% control over the boat.

[@501pm_fishing]

You’re not wrong and I can appreciate what you say here! I’m usually on top of my boats maintenance so engine start has never been a problem… until It is I guess. Lol. Thanks for the comment!

[@501pm_fishing]

I do show in the second way tying it to the dock with a small dock line and therefore you can still have some control.

[@Crappie_Hunter_Seeker]

Just a tip. I would never leave the boat strap unhooked from the boat (2nd method you showed I think (with rope tied to dock). Aluminum boats are very slicky and can slide off the trailer if the boat ramp is steep before you get into the water. How do I know? It happened to me. I had fiberglass boats all my life and never had this issue. I downsized to an aluminum boat and my first visit to the boat ramp, with my new boat, it slid off and ended up sitting on the dry ramp. I had always launched my fiberglass boats with the strap unhooked and never had an issue. I would never want this to happen to anyone else. I had no idea that Aluminum boats were so slick. Needless to say the bottom of my boat has the scars thanks to my ignorance. Thanks for sharing your techniques !

[@501pm_fishing]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@charlesronk2989]

I unhook mine on my fiberglass bass boat, but only when the wind is blowing in to the dock. I have about a 5 foot piece of rope with 3 loops. A larger about 10" and smaller about 6" loop on one end and another loop about 6" on the opposite end. I hook the single loop end to the cleat on the dock side of my boat while I am prepping to launch. I do like you put about a foot of slack in the front strap. Then back in. I do the bumper to tongue walk and unhook. Then back to the dock where I hook the big hoop over the dock post and the small loop next to it over the same cleat the rope is on. The way my boat is it can only get about 30 degree angle from the dock. I park my truck. Jump in the boat and am gone. The whole process whether loading or unloading doesn't take me 2 minutes. I hate it when someone jumps in front of me at the launch and is there for 20 minutes getting their boat loaded. Like yourself, I don't even like anyone with me helping. They just get in the way. I have a system that works for me.

[@michaelhalstead7269]

@@501pm_fishingwhat type of trailer rollers or runners

[@jackkielty8241]

I do pretty much the same thing when solo launching my boat but as an added precaution against having the boat float away from me as soon as it become buoyant I have a loop on the end of my bow line which I place over the upright winch post. I climb onto the boat over the bow and once safely onboard I then reach over and flip the rope loop off the winch post.

[@kevinstogner9477]

My method is to take tie two bow lines together, one end goes on the right of left cleat depending on what side the ramp your using. The other end I looped and cinched around my winch. Off she slowly goes, I pull up and take the bow line from the winch. Walk back to the dock, tie off and go park. Moving the boat outta the way is courteous if the ramp is busy. ...nice job.

[@munsters2]

Some good tips, especially about not power loading and digging a huge hole for others to fall into. It's pretty simple when there is no wind, but wind makes it a lot more difficult, especially with a bigger boat.

[@jamescraig8601]

Ive never heard that about power loading. Ive seen a few people in my life not power load. They admitted they didnt know how. Im in no way arguing. But ive even watched conservation officers power load. Also I use an elastic launch strap available at most marine supply stored. Happy tight lines

[@buzzpoluchi3217]

I always power load. If you trim the drive up a bunch, the prop wash will be directed up so you won't be washing the launch and the bow will lift making it slide on the bunks easier.

[@wraithconscience]

Thank you so much for this clear, concise method with great tips too. I'm working on my method of solo launching a 22' keel sailboat, using an extension tow line and a large single loop tie-line from two boats cleats (to hold parallel to dock), draped around (or through) one dock cleat, then long enough to reach the back of the car or front of the trailer, with which I can safely pull the boat to the dock (then around it), tie off and park. I particularly like your "stepped" method of backing in up to the diamond plates, tieing the boat off, backing in more to release the boat, then the final tie-onto the dock and park. Superb.

[@caseysaunders2137]

I use your method number 2 (with two lines) exclusively. N. Texas. Often windy. If wind driving boat into the ramp then gotta have some urgency on hopping out of truck after boat floats off trailer, then grab the lines and tying off. Two 50 ft lines managed every ramp i've used so far

[@sbjones73]

I have watched this many times. And I thank you. I am new to boating. I appreciate this video.

[@jeffdege4786]

With your second launch method, I'd never use 550 cord as a dock line, it's too small to grip comfortably. And I'd simply warp the boat around to the other side of the dock. I'd not climb aboard with no lines attached. Suppose, for example, you jumped on the boat, with no dock lines tied, and your engine doesn't start?

[@501pm_fishing]

Yeah, good point Jeff. There might be a video that comes out from me when my motor doesn’t start.. then what! 😅😂😂

[@christhompson5439]

Probably just use the trolling motor............as a backup.... :)

[@MarcusAurelius33036]

Thanks for posting this. I’m totally new to trailering and I’m pretty anxious about how to do it effectively and with minimal drama and delay.

[@puravida5683]

Greetings from Costa Rica. Great information. When a wife doesn't like or share the boating experience. Girlfriends will!

[@luislemos9131]

1000000% correct😂

[@mariahhays8886]

Awesome! Can’t wait to see the boat in action catching some fish! 🐟

[@livebig247]

That's nice. I like my "trick steps" I installed on my 1875. Allows me to load easily at the ramp, but also great just for getting in and out of the boat on land as well.

[@mikesteele1789]

My lund fisherman us way to tall to lean over and hook ,from the bow I need steps also to load without getting wet

[@JackSon-cs5vk]

i ripped my stern saver off not too long ago after doing some repairs. I was so excited to get back on the water!

[@501pm_fishing]

😭😭😭

[@signelengis]

Should just use a line up front. Toss a Bowline on it and lasso the wrench. Let it slide off and hang, and use it to walk the boat to the nearest cleat on the dock. Same method but less risk of the boat getting away from you.

[@allkindsofoutdooractivities]

Really nice instruction! Great job

[@karenzortman9149]

Wow great job!!! Looking forward to seeing more soon.

[@stephensmith3921]

We’ll done, sir! Beautiful and helpful video!

[@houseofgrindgaming]

Nice video and options presented. Thanks!

[@rambal4198]

Extremely useful and wish I had watched a month ago.

[@charlesforte6473]

Thank you Sir, Well Done ! 👍👍👍

[@Rico11b]

The Drotto eliminates ALL OF THAT. It will never easier to launch and retrieve your boat unless you have someone else to it completely.

[@Bryan-oc5fk]

Power loading is fine, the ramp is solid concrete and drops off straight down at the end of the ramp. Have to be super careful when water levels are low. You drop an axel off at the end of the ramp, your not getting it back over without a wrecker to lift it up

[@ThePSUisBETTER]

great video and ideas!....the power loading thing is nice but its a moot point for big lakes.

[@chrisvolk106]

I wish all lakes had courtesy docks.

[@daverenshaw7073]

Very educational mate good job

[@luvdoctor96]

great video, i'm learning and this video was more informative than many others i've watched.

[@Moondog9322]

Good video. I might add that we should always apply the parking brake before exiting the tow vehicle. Brake on first, then place in park....reduces strain on the tranny. Also, traction tape on the rails of the trailer are a big help too.

[@allenhughes12]

I won't power load again. Got sideways and popped the head off s rivet time before last. Didn't notice until I went out again and had to pump water on the way back to the ramp.

[@officialWWM]

I’d be leaving my wife at home. In fact, I do! 😂😂

[@michaelhalstead7269]

Use a block behind front or rear tire don’t always rely on park or E-brake

[@gunnerneikoify]

Here's one thing, never ever ever release your boat completely from the trailer when the boat & trailer are backed into the water when solo launching, until the engine is started first. Nothing worse than floating your boat off and away from the trailer and then finding out your boat won't start, and then there you sit adrift looking like an idiot trying to paddle yourself back to the trailer or dock. Even worse when this happens on a windy day and the wind is really carrying you out on the water. Ask me how I know.

[@501pm_fishing]

You’re not wrong and I can appreciate what you say here! I’m usually on top of my boats maintenance so engine start has never been a problem… until It is I guess. Lol. Thanks for the comment!

[@501pm_fishing]

I do show in the second way tying it to the dock with a small dock line and therefore you can still have some control.

[@gunnerneikoify]

@@501pm_fishing Better safe than sorry. 🙂

[@ChuckinOhio]

Why did you insert the drain plug from the outside? I think inside control is best.

[@501pm_fishing]

I have a backup drain plug that is the flip kind. Those I ALWAYS install from the inside (there is a story there.) but with the screw in ones, outside works for me.

[@samwakefield1035]

No. Back boat off normally with a stretch boat launch rope. Tie to front bow eye and cleat on dock. Launch, pull out and park, walk back to dock and pull boat to you and tie off to cleats … way too easy. I have a boatloadmate system for easy, secure loading.

[@ddvette]

Make a checklist once you have it down.

[@scott6031]

Minnewashta?

[@501pm_fishing]

Yes!

[@fishteamrose]

Sounds like you both need new partners. Or to re evaluate your relationship. Mine was eager to learn, and she did well. No reason to lose your cool.

[@sepiusolutions]

I have the same bunk as you but I always power up then tighten the winch. If I don't power it how easy is it to winch manually and bring the boat up?

[@501pm_fishing]

Its not hard at all to winch it up! I only back the trailer in until the rear tires are about 75 - 80% in the water. This puts the bunks deep enough to allow the boat to come up 75% of the way then I winch it the rest with ease to keep it centered.

[@sepiusolutions]

@@501pm_fishing thank you for responding.

[@williamfeldner9356]

Just buy a BoatCatch out of Australia, they have a distributor in Texas

[@pault5816]

I wish I could get in and out of my boat that easily but my boat sits to high on the trailer for that

[@robertgreer5229]

Well that’s all nice and dandy but if you are the 1 exception not power loading the other 1009 boat operators that are will dredge out a hole under the surface! Lol 😂 Everyone must do the same or it’s just A waste.

[@ALPHAFTUCK]

Nice boat, new wife? ha

[@501pm_fishing]

LOL!

[@farmer998]

guess you need a new one

[@Mrfishreed]

Sir, your boat trailer needs left and right roller guide posts soyour taillights are mounted high to load your boat perfect every single time even at night. . Secondly, since I'm mobility handicapped under ADA and Michigan Eliot -LArson Civil Rights Rules. I have challenged the Michigan Department of Natural Resources law enforcement division to dare write me ticket a ticket for power loading. If the DNR was so smart they would add more concrete bottom slabs extending out deep enough to prevent mounding the sand. It is a Simple solution for over paid government employee minds. It the people waiting on me don't like how slow it takes me to load and unload my boat, they have 2 options. Help me or shut their arrogant mouths because I really don't care. All the boat plug, removal of tie downs, lunches from the tow vehicle loaded in the boat, and boat covers should be done well before you even think about backing your boat down the launch. 55 years of launching and loading boats has made me an expert on what not to do!

[@terryswails1191]

I've been launching solo for years, it's a little more work but if you fish alone just take your time, slow and steady. I drove 18 wheeler solo , sometimes iys an advantage, you don't have to put up with somebody's whiney attitude, I'm 71 and still launch solo, just get a routine and stick with it, I preload all of my fishing gear into my boat before I leave my house or do it out of the way , Don't tie up the boat ramp , there's always an idiot that has to load his equipment, cooler and other necessities. Be considerate, there are boaters that will punch you in the face, just saying

[@501pm_fishing]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@geraldharper364]

Probably for divorces at boat ramps than any other location...seen it happen.

[@501pm_fishing]

😂😂😂

[@gilianrampart8514]

Marriage counseling?

[@RobertMacpherson-t7m]

Time to get rid of your wife

[@jones1394]

Guy this to much. Buy a Dakota retriever and be safe. If you can't afford one, then you shouldn't own a boat.

[@FB-sp5ex]

Dakota boat retriever 👍🏻y’all look it up