Getting the boat out of storage

What steps do you more experienced guys take to get your boat ready after pulling it out of storage?
I had it completely winterized, pulled the batteries out and and stuck it in storage. It’s been sitting for about 4 monthes.The boat guys added a can of stablizer to the gas. I have been keeping a full charge in the batteries all winter. I read in another post that the engine can be hard to start after “fogging”. I don’t want to look foolish and drift down the river while my engine won’t start.
It’s a 2001 Merc 90 horse ELPTO on a Fishawk S/C
also, should I change the oil? It was a new motor last year and I didn’t put a ton of hours on it.
thanks

My choice has always been to run it in the driveway before going out for the first time. An inexpensive set of “muffs” for getting water in is a good investment. That way you can run motor up to operating temperature. This will also get the fogging oil burned up. And yes, change the oil irregardless of what you put on for hours last year. Do this after running the motor, all moisture and contaminants will be flushed out. An hour spent in the driveway before your first trip out will eliminate first time start up headaches

I have to agree with Big dad on this. The first time you start the motor after fogging, it will smoke and run rough until the fogging oil is out. I’ve always had to restart the motor a number of times to get all of it out. I then change the plugs, put all my gear back in and hit the water. Also don’t forget to check your trailer bearings. Pop the buddy or dust cap off and see how the grease is. If its grey, or smells burnt, time to repack. Nothing can ruin a fishing trip quicker than a tossed bearing.
One more thing, a good coat of wax on the boat in the spring, will make fall cleaning easier.
Just my 2 cents. See you on the river.

SteveO,

These guys have some good advice for you on your first journey back out after the long winter months. If I could add anything to this it would be to maybe bring an extra set of plugs with you in case you foul them after running and spitting the fog out of the cylinders. Also, now is the prefect time to inspect all the wiring that is going to your batteries in your battery boxes. Make sure all the ring terminals are all clean and free of any corrosion and that the ring terminals are not loose and all in line fuses are in tact (or bring a couple extra in the boat for future)
Might be worth checking the prop and prop shaft for any line that may have been picked up while last season boating. This line left twined in your prop shaft can create some real problems a little while down the road for your lower unit.
For the most part, it sounds like you are ready for the water!
Good luck and have fun.