Enjoyable Boat Fishing Should Start With Preparation

LEWISTON - With many Idaho anglers gearing up for the upcoming salmon season, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game encourages boat anglers to prevent a fine day on the water from turning into a miserable experience, some important boat maintenance is required. "It's important to ensure that everything works properly and all safety gear is in order before getting on the water," said Rick Cooper, conservation officer with Idaho Department of Fish and Game in Lewiston. IDFG provides the following boat preparation tips: á Outboard motor -- Replace the lower unit grease. Grease all fittings on the motor, and make sure the steering mechanism is lubricated and working smoothly. Clean or replace spark plugs and make sure they are gapped to specifications. Check all fuel lines for wear, cracks, and leaks. Grease shaft and replace cotter pin on shaft nut. á Start the motor before your first trip to the lake. You can start the motor in your driveway if you have a pair of motor muffs, which attach to a garden hose and force water into your motor's water intake ports. This allows you to run the motor at low RPMs and tune if necessary. á Batteries -- Water levels should be checked in each cell, and batteries should be fully charged long before the first trip. Check the batteries several days later and make sure they are holding a charge. Inspect and clean all battery connections. á Electrical gear -- Check of all bilge pumps and electrical gauges. Tighten any loose connections. á Safety Gear -- Inspect all life jackets and throwable cushions. There must be one life jacket for each person on board, and all must be in good working condition to be legal. á Tailer -- Grease wheel hubs. Check tires for weathering and proper inflation. Check wire connections and make sure all lights work. Lubricate trailer winch and check winch strap for wear. Ensure hitch is sound and safety chains are in place. Check ball and tighten if necessary. Other items to include: drain plug and spare, first aid kit, anchor, paddle, tool kit, electrical tape and wire connectors, variety of spare fuses and bulbs, extra two-cycle oil and extra life jacket. For those new to boating or those just wanting to become more familiar with laws and navigation rules, contact Boating Education, Idaho Park and Recreation, PO Box 83720, Boise ID, 83720-0065, or phone (208) 334-4199.