Opinions on Winter storage?

This is probably a dumb question, but I’m considering a couple option – I put my motors indoors in the winter so thats not the issue. The boat, also, has always been stored indoors. This year I have a brand new cover that fits tight and repels rain/snow well. I’m debating on also picking up a big tarp and wrapping the whole boat (over the cover) and keeping it outside, OR, moving the boat downstate to a garage I have access to.? The garage isn’t heated. It doesn’t seem like it would make much difference. The boat is an older 16′ Rebel, but has been kept in excellent condition.

What’s more important to you? having your boat close to you and potentially ready to go with a little effort, or, making sure it stays in excellent condition. The tarp idea sounds just fine, just make sure it’s supported enough so that it doesn’t cave in or have water pooling and sitting in low spots to refreeze. leave the plug out so that any water that does get in can get out, and if you have any wiring, do what you can to keep mice out.

^ what Luttes said. Plus tip it up unless stored inside.
Assuming your motor is light enough to bring indoors, I sure would. Then again I would have it on my side of the bed all winter just for the comfort of stroking her cowl occasionally.

Brian Klawitter wrote:

^ what Luttes said. Plus tip it up unless stored inside.
Assuming your motor is light enough to bring indoors, I sure would. Then again I would have it on my side of the bed all winter just for the comfort of stroking her cowl occasionally.

…a disturbing mental image destroying my few remaining brain cells…

My boat sits out side year round. I put a cover on it and then tarp over it. Then it’s ready for the river at any given time

Pat K wrote:

<div class=”d4p-bbt-quote-title”>Brian Klawitter wrote:</div>
^ what Luttes said. Plus tip it up unless stored inside.
Assuming your motor is light enough to bring indoors, I sure would. Then again I would have it on my side of the bed all winter just for the comfort of stroking her cowl occasionally.

…a disturbing mental image destroying my few remaining brain cells…

At least he did not include a photo that one could not “unseen”. I’m fine the mental image being only in your head.

Bearcat89 wrote:

My boat sits out side year round. I put a cover on it and then tarp over it. Then it’s ready for the river at any given time

Same here. And my boat still looks brand new after 3 years of doing it this way. I just take care of it, check it for snow loading, keep onboard battery charger plugged in all winter. No issues to speak of.