ScrambledEgg you sir are way ahead of the curve...tried to sink my 1st boat 2 times...before TH-cam...had to make a checklist lol... #1 Check drain plug #2 Check drain plug
I have to say...there's about 100 video's on this very topic, this one is the absolute best. Even the insights on the bunk trailer. Everywhere I go, they try to sell you a roller trailer. Terry makes a great point for why a bunk trailer may be better for a larger boat.
As someone who is currently boat shopping, I found this video to be VERY informative. Granted, I won't be buying a boat of this size, but I'm sure the concepts will transfer. I agree with a previous commenter who said that this video should be MANDATORY viewing for ALL rookie boat owners. Great job guys! Nice boat and truck, btw!
I just watched it again for the second time for a refresher, I kinda forgot about the short line at the bow and jumping in the boat from the trailer, super cool video, I will be launching more often alone now with this setup, well done Capt.
This WORKS - I have had zero issues since I tightened up the goal posts, backed in tight to one side of launch and utilize the front line and loop to my winch post once the distance of rope was determined (after 1st attempt was a tad too long). Thank You - now I can confidently solo launch worry. 2006 Sea Fox 257CC - Bunk Trailer
1 important thing is turn the wheel either side incase E break failure then the truck goes on reverse but into the dock. That way the truck don't end up in the water.
I guess the question becomes, would you rather recover your rig and repair the water damage, or drive it out and have to do body work. Lol Also, if it goes straight back, the insurance company will probably consider it a total loss, if it just slams into a dock, you might have to fix it and then have a truck with an accident on it that may never be quite right again...not to mention repair costs to the dock. You always gotta weigh those options.
Great video. A few more things I do, I remove the safety straps and put in the drain plug in the staging area and put up my bimini top and have dock lines attached with bumpers sitting out. I usually leave my winch attached just loosened until in the water a little. Then I get out and flip the winch and disconnect it just so it doesn't potentially slide off if I have to break hard. I've had someone pull behind my trailer while backing up because they couldn't wait 30 seconds to get to their ramp and that could have broken it loose. One big thing is do not put your fenders out before you're in the water, main reason is they get wedged in between your guide poles and you can lose a pole or a fender doing that. Everyone should see this if they buy a boat. Common courtesy makes the trip so much better
I wish everyone was as considerate. The boat ramp where I live is a mad house. People cut in line, will move your boat while you go park your truck and everyone is in a hurry. I launch mine the same way you do. Coming back to get back on the trailer starts the madness again. Usually people think if their boat costs more than yours did they have priority. Its a wonder no one gets shot there. Nice boat you have.
See the decline in the character of the American people. And the # 1 main reason is allowing the rejecting of The Bible by the citizens and the Godless in government. Does that statement make you upset? That's exactly my point. Leviticus 23 applies, "A statute for ever in all your dwellings, throughout your generations". Notice v 3. Deuteronomy 28 is today, as you can see.
I watched this video a couple of years ago as a new boater and i have used this ramp etiquette and self launch technique with great success. I have never had any issues at the ramp. Thank You.
Capt. Terry, it is solely because of this video, that I am not intimidated to go out on my boat alone anymore and more than confident to launch by myself, the bow rope to the trailer post is awesome.. Great video, and yes I agree with Barry that says this should be mandatory watching for new boat owners, especially about the etiquette. Thanks man.
This was super informative. Thanks for showing all the details like you did. If I ever have to solo trailer a boat that large I'll know how to keep me and it safe!
Quite experienced in trailering a boat, but that pre measured bow line to the trailer sure beats my stupid old method of having my anchor line in the cab to stop the boat after it slides off the trailer. Thanks for the video, I think this is the most important thing I've learned after many years.
Indeed. The bow line and the mid-cleat tie-off were both great ideas although the spot he tied off the mid-line was not ideal because the boat could move backwards and that line could slip right off the end of that wooden, 2x4 rub strip. Probably better to tie it further up where there's a vertical post under that rub strip to stop the line from sliding out. He might've just done that to speed up the filming too, so I'm probably being a bit too fussy lol. But definitely an experienced fellow and a lot of excellent advice.
Yeah, you're probably right. Plus this fellow has it made with a ramp dock that has rub strip rails already on the piers so he doesn't have to finagle around with fenders. Once you slide the boat off the trailer, usually you have to jump in and throw out your fenders and tie them off, often adjusting their height depending on the tide. I don't like to have my fenders already hanging before I slide the boat because they get all caught up on those glide posts, especially if they're all tightly tensioned like he has them. Mine have a little slack I find works better for recovery. So he has all the ideal conditions to make it as fast and easy as possible. Most of us have to deal with other conditions as well.
9-10 years ago I watched this video because my wife wasn't available. It's the best example and suggestions that I have found for a bunk trailer launching. I don't have the guides as Terry does but my bunk will hold the boat from moving even in 15 knot wind.
I almost never use rear straps. I have straps, it’s just my boat stays in a marina on a lift so it doesn’t get trailered often. When it does, it only goes like 20 miles to the mechanic shop and back again.
you'd be amazed. My brother has made that mistake a handful of times... all with my boats and jet skis. He has his own now, incredible how he suddenly remembers the plugs all the time.
Yes it is.......I always wished I had those side stanchions that come up on both sides of the rear of my boat trailer , they are really helpful on windy days , plus I always had those boat dock fenders pre tied off on all my side cleats on my boat ...it made it easier to just hang them over whatever side I was docking on to prevent scratches and marks......on loading my boat , and since it was a open bow , I would gently power the boat back up on the trailer, and power it up until it was up against the front snubber...then I would leave the boat in foward gear with just enough throttle to keep it up against the front snubber ,then I would walk foward and lean over the bow ( I was able to do that on my boat ) and hook my safety hook and my winch hook....then go back and turn off the engine and pull my stern drive up ....hop out and pull the rig out of the way and into the parking lot where I would put the back straps on , wipe it down , unload it , pull the plug and drain water if needed etc ....oh and about that plug......always make sure it's in ......carry a spare one......and about your boat keys ? Make sure you have spares, and make sure they are on a bright colored floating key fob !.... I can't tell you how many times someone stuck the keys in their swim trunks pocket , for whatever reason , and then jumped over into the water , and then thought " oh shoot the keys !"...... we found our keys everytime bobbing on the water with our bright yellow key fob float .......we also used to carry a spare prop, nut, cotter pin , and the wrench to change it with.....plus spare fuses if needed .......another good piece of safety equipment in addition to fire extinguishers , is a set of oars ( in case your engine stalls out ) and a long pole to push your boat off of rocks and Cliff walls etc . In case your boat stalls .....and a nice tow rope or strap in case you need a tow in , or need to tow someone else in.........these simple tools are a big help in case of a stalled boat ........I've had to use both over the many years of boating ....and of course , make sure your trailer has a spare tire as well..........and .....happy Boating ! 😊
@@gloriamoreno8668 , good points that should have been included in this otherwise helpful video. I read if a person tows a boat in, when reaching shore, the tow boat owner can claim ownership of the towed boat and all contents under salvage law.
Boat in the water in a minute and a 1/2? Sheeeesh😧 IMPRESSIVE...I guess its like muscle memory, that you can do it with your eyes close. Good stuff. SUBBED
One thing I saw the other day, worth mentioning. A guy launched a large boat, maybe as big as this guy, then drove over and parked his truck/trailer. As he walked away to go get on the boat, he did not notice one of the bunks had broken badly; I imagine he would have noticed when he got ready to retrieve (of course I told him) but it reminded me to always give a quick eyeball to your trailer once the boat is off and it is easy to check it out for signs of wear, rust, damage, whatever.
Last summer I had a bunk break on me. Didn't notice until the boat was already on the trailer. The aluminum was sitting on the bunk mount, not very good but it is a light boat.
I have a 26' Seaswirl Striper and I had always held the rope while in the driver's seat of my truck. I like the way this guy does it and will do it his way on my next launch.
Quite a bit of useful information here for launching when you are solo. When I was young my father and I would launch our 16 foot off a tilt roller trailer pretty easily. He would back down with me in the boat. We had a small trolling motor on the transom and I had it ready to start as soon as he gave me a shove. Once in the water I wouldn't even go to the dock, just wait and circle around, for him to park and walk to the end of the dock. A quick nose in and he stepped on and we went out still under the small motor, and once clear of all the traffic dropped our main outboard and off we went. Reversed the process to take it back out. Thanks for the video and information.
I've watched awhile back, gained alot of great points of how too by yourself... I'm getting a larger Boat now, and here I am again, A Great Video, and confidence builder to start off with especially over 20 ft plus vessel... Must Watch Video...👍
I remember watching this video when I first started boating it helped a lot this video is short and to the point, I come back and watch it from time to time to keep good habits at the ramps.. 🚤🚤
been launching for years, just went bigger to a 25 foot cabin cruiser for 30 years of launching never thought of attaching the rope to trailer with hook unhooked simple trick just so simple my mind did not think of it because I do a lot of solo launching. Funny you actually can teach an old dog new tricks also the mid rope trick. Thanks
I wanna laugh at you because the tying the boat to the trailer just seemed like a natural common sense thing to do. But after realizing I’m the dope who ties off the bow and stern lines needlessly I started laughing at myself. Yep another member of this old dog learned a new trick club here
@@andrewsusin7490 I don't have a mid cleat, but I take a line I have tied to the bow, run it around a cleat on the dock that's toward the middle of the boat, and then tie it off on my stern cleat. I only have to loosen the stern tie and pull the rope in the boat and I'm outta there.
Like Terry said, every boat, trailer and ramp are different. The very first thing that I do is to inspect the ramp to check the level of the tides and the condition of the ramp. Here in the Pacific (California), the tides may vary by as much as 6 feet in a day. If the tide is low, I must drive further down the ramp, but NOT PAST the end of the ramp or the trailer may get hung up. Thus at extreme low tide, I might wait an hour or two before launching or retrieving my boat. I try to plan my trailering at mid tide or higher by using a tide app, I use Tide Alert by NOAA. I have a 2001 29 feet twin engine boat that I drive off or on to the bunk trailer. When I drive onto the trailer, I trim my drives up slightly so that the backwash will not damage the "earth" at the end of the ramp. I do not use Terry's method of launching the boat because my trailer does not have guild posts, so the water current and wind will move my boat sideways in a matter of seconds. I launch and retrieve solo, but use the method that works best for you when you are singlehanded. One very important note is that Terry's boat had outboards and for his particular boat, he did not have to trim up the outboard before launching or retrieving his boat. My boat has sterndrives, so I ALWAYS trim my drives up before launching or retrieving my boat. The last thing that I want to do is to damage my propellers on the concrete ramp. Watch the pros and practice on a day when the ramps are empty. Use your common sense and think it through and you be fine.
You left out one KEY piece of advice! When you back up the trailer, ALWAYS keep your window open!!! This is especially important if it is a power window. If something happens and you start going into the water, you need an exit strategy.
Mark Mancini very good advice I never thought of. I usually have my crew keep the windows of the truck open just so they can hear me if I holler.... but very good advice. Thank you
I launch alone 35 times a Year, and I totally agree with you, and another reason to keep it open is while backing up you can hear the rig (boat and trailer) and be aware, of it, I have heard many trailer that have pulled up to the launch sounding fine and when they start to backup up you can hear the bearings popping on the broke race.
It is a Pleasure knowing a Knowledgeable Guy, Terry Nugent what an excellent and precise presentation of something that may seem very cumbersome... thoroughly enjoyed your way of launching a large boat, although I don't own a boat....
But see...he's smart and experienced. There plenty of boat owners who are not experienced and very stupid. Therefore...we have problems on boat ramps throughout our nation and the world.
Its all common sense to have your boat ready "before" launch but its the sorry people who have no regard for others that take up the ramp too long. I get furious waiting to launch while some jerk trailers his boat and stays at the ramp while he gathers his gear and wipes his boat down polishing everything like he's sooo much more important. All the while people are obviously waiting to launch
Some people just aren't born with the consideration gene. A-holes at the boat ramp are no different than the people who wait in a grocery store line for 20 minutes, wait for all their groceries to get rung up, wait for the total......then that's when they start their journey of finding their wallet buried at the bottom of their purse somewhere
I wish more people thought about what they are doing and how it affects others around them, and planned out the quickest, most efficient way to accomplish the task. Far too many people seem to just be winging it through life at every step of the way...totally inconsiderate to those around them. It drives me mad with frustration sometimes.
Very nice job. I always chock my truck wheels. Our ramps are real steep. Now I want you to do a video of loading that ship on the trailer in a real strong current.
I do it the same way but i have a longer line and i land the boat right to the dock. it so easy and fast. Another tip use neutral in truck when rolling down ramp, when you stop use emergency brake then put it in park, it takes stress off your park pin and tranny linkage. i had one pop out while on ramp once was not fun.
Great video but the whole bunk vs roller discussion is unnecessary and could have been avoided simply by leaving the safety chain and winch strap connected until point 6:05 in the video. That is the point where the back of the boat is in the water and the winch is still accessible with dry feet. The pre-measured line is a good idea. I always accomplished that task by taking my regular bow line and passing the loose end through the triangular portion of the trailer frame under the winch, and then tying it back to the bow cleat to form a loose loop that has the same amount of give as the pre-measured line. The loose end of the bow line is easily retrieved from on-board after the boat is floating.
I've recently repaired damage to a (lightweight) E-Scow hull because of it setting on a roller trailer, with all the stain on a few localized spots. I know more rollers might work, but the bunks I'm adding are going to work best. And cost far less.
All great advice. The one thing I would add from personal experience is to disconnect the trailer lights before putting the boat in the water. Some lights can burn out quickly when submerged.
Lots of good information here. I run a roller trailer, and solo launching/loading is a pain sometimes when it's windy or busy. If I switched to a bunk trailer I'd set it up just like his. I hadn't considered running the uprights tight against the hull to hold it in place, and the extra bow line on the trailer is pretty nifty. With my trailer I've got to keep the winch and safety line hooked up because the rollers on my trailer work really really well. But, I use a lot of shallow water launches so the rollers have their benefits. Great video!
It confused me that in many videos the boater would disconnect that forward winch before backing down the ramp and then there were some saying don't do it until you're in the water. You are the only person I've seen so far that made the light-bulb come after warning about roller style trailers. Thank you for that.
i really like the emphasis on not tying up the dock unnecessarily, just takes a little thinking ahead and proper set up of your boat/trailer/truck. I've launched my 38 many many time by myself without issue and use many of the techniques here, mid cleat is is a favorite. Keep up the good work . . .
Finally someone that knows importance of ramp etiquette.. don't bring your 38 ice chest and 90 fishing poles down the ramp one at a time to put in your boat.. that's why there is a staging area lmao some people!!
Very true about the drain plug , but on that boat its a screw in plug and I never take it out so its not part of my rotation. I don't unplug lights since the LEDS don't seem to have issues. Thanks for the great feedback. And yes I've done it a few times (about 100 times a season)
Freedom Talk Media- when the boat is off the trailer your still inside the truck and the boat would already be rubbing against the dock before you can hop out jump in your boat and throw them over- DUH
I also like to pull the power to the trailer lights (not sure if that helps but my fixtures rust out before I have a bad bulb) and check the plugs before dropping it in.
There is a 1000 videos on launching your boat. This is easily the best. I just launched my new 22 Tritoon by myself for the first time. It's a beast compared to the 18 speed boat I was use to. I wish I can say it was this easy. I did get it in nothing got hurt but I went on a cold day early.
Nice Boat and Trailer. Lots of walk around space. On my little 21 ft I always unplug the Trailer Lights before launching to prevent a bulb from popping and once its disconnected from the trailer I walk my boat to the far end of the dock to make room for the next guy while im parking my trailer.
Really like the comment about the mid-cleat. I have a Tritoon on the gulf. Once that thing is off the trailer, I have to be there with in seconds to secure it, or my stern is in the county.
Arizona ramps can be super slippery , I have seen more than one truck slide in with just the emergency brake set since it only locks the rear tires ( wheel chock at driver front for me ) also this TH-cam method works great if you can slide down next to a dock but that's not always the case I find it much better to have a way to get onto the boat from the trailer tongue this way i can launch center lanes of the ramp , no dock required , just back in , unhook , climb aboard and motor off, tie up or anchor a bit offshore and swim it ;-) , then park the tow vehicle , makes retrieval at a busy ramp with full docks easy also
Really great video. Would add one thing...Unplug your trailer lights prior to backing down the ramp. Everyone likes to think their lights are perfectly sealed, but I've shorted out more than a few trailer lights because water had found a seam.
Most big boats cannot unplug because the reverse signal through the plug keeps the brakes from engaging. Also, I would imagine once your lights fill up with salt water, they are on their way to quick failure whether on or not.
Great segment on launching your boat. I need to get a set of uprights. They really help in a tide or wind movement condition to keep the boat from floating over the fenders. I have trouble keeping our boat on center and noticed you had center guide bunks. Thank you for the video.
Used this technique last night to launch my new 25T Competition - worked like a charm ! Thanks Terry - Now wheres the Tuna biting - I launch out of Sesuit - Tight Lines
![New England Boating & Fishing [ BOATING LOCAL ]](http://yt3.ggpht.com/gecBXgq47kwMjvRRv3Lbo6uTWO2hBL_HohXA48m1zh2UqnGUU78GxRR83XtCBAEKqjqwSSV-0xc=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj)
Terry has done a very good job in this video, .... It should be mandatory viewing for new boat owners. Well done.
7and 5yhy
and a shitload of old boat owners.
Shit half of them wouldn't even understand this witchcraft
I'm glad I clicked on this video.... good info. Learned quite a few things...
But then we lose a lot of good footage of fails..
I don’t own a boat, its 1am, and I’m glad I know how to solo launch a boat
@ScrambledEgg i speak it into your life
I don’t even own a car 😂
@@Cassin1797 but u can virtually solo launch a boat now...more better..
ScrambledEgg you sir are way ahead of the curve...tried to sink my 1st boat 2 times...before TH-cam...had to make a checklist lol...
#1 Check drain plug
#2 Check drain plug
Same
What I learned so far is... 100 different videos... 100 different ways. Thanks for the video
I have to say...there's about 100 video's on this very topic, this one is the absolute best. Even the insights on the bunk trailer. Everywhere I go, they try to sell you a roller trailer. Terry makes a great point for why a bunk trailer may be better for a larger boat.
I’m a paraplegic since birth and I always launch and reload my 28 foot boat by myself. It’s not a big deal when you have a technique and plan ahead.
I have to say out of all the boat launch videos on TH-cam this is the best one and best way to launch a boat. Thank You for the great video
This is the first time I ever watched someone launch a boat in the water! Professional Job Terry, enjoyed the video!
As someone who is currently boat shopping, I found this video to be VERY informative. Granted, I won't be buying a boat of this size, but I'm sure the concepts will transfer. I agree with a previous commenter who said that this video should be MANDATORY viewing for ALL rookie boat owners. Great job guys! Nice boat and truck, btw!
I just watched it again for the second time for a refresher, I kinda forgot about the short line at the bow and jumping in the boat from the trailer, super cool video, I will be launching more often alone now with this setup, well done Capt.
This WORKS - I have had zero issues since I tightened up the goal posts, backed in tight to one side of launch and utilize the front line and loop to my winch post once the distance of rope was determined (after 1st attempt was a tad too long). Thank You - now I can confidently solo launch worry. 2006 Sea Fox 257CC - Bunk Trailer
1 important thing is turn the wheel either side incase E break failure then the truck goes on reverse but into the dock. That way the truck don't end up in the water.
I guess the question becomes, would you rather recover your rig and repair the water damage, or drive it out and have to do body work. Lol
Also, if it goes straight back, the insurance company will probably consider it a total loss, if it just slams into a dock, you might have to fix it and then have a truck with an accident on it that may never be quite right again...not to mention repair costs to the dock. You always gotta weigh those options.
Great video. Keep it simple/stupid. A little planning makes for a great day on the water. Wish other boaters could be as considerate as this guy.
Great video. A few more things I do, I remove the safety straps and put in the drain plug in the staging area and put up my bimini top and have dock lines attached with bumpers sitting out. I usually leave my winch attached just loosened until in the water a little. Then I get out and flip the winch and disconnect it just so it doesn't potentially slide off if I have to break hard. I've had someone pull behind my trailer while backing up because they couldn't wait 30 seconds to get to their ramp and that could have broken it loose. One big thing is do not put your fenders out before you're in the water, main reason is they get wedged in between your guide poles and you can lose a pole or a fender doing that. Everyone should see this if they buy a boat. Common courtesy makes the trip so much better
Pre-tension goal post is brilliant, can't believe I never thought of that.
I wish everyone was as considerate. The boat ramp where I live is a mad house. People cut in line, will move your boat while you go park your truck and everyone is in a hurry. I launch mine the same way you do. Coming back to get back on the trailer starts the madness again. Usually people think if their boat costs more than yours did they have priority. Its a wonder no one gets shot there. Nice boat you have.
will move your boat ....that could get you killed..
You live in Florida 😂
See the decline in the character of the American people. And the # 1 main reason is allowing the rejecting of The Bible by the citizens and the Godless in government. Does that statement make you upset? That's exactly my point. Leviticus 23 applies, "A statute for ever in all your dwellings, throughout your generations".
Notice v 3.
Deuteronomy 28 is today, as you can see.
@@senatorjosephmccarthy2720 Lucky for us, the Founding Fathers understood separation of Church & State.
I watched this video a couple of years ago as a new boater and i have used this ramp etiquette and self launch technique with great success. I have never had any issues at the ramp. Thank You.
Capt. Terry, it is solely because of this video, that I am not intimidated to go out on my boat alone anymore and more than confident to launch by myself, the bow rope to the trailer post is awesome.. Great video, and yes I agree with Barry that says this should be mandatory watching for new boat owners, especially about the etiquette. Thanks man.
@terry nugent beautiful boat bro. Stay safe and tight lines
This was super informative. Thanks for showing all the details like you did. If I ever have to solo trailer a boat that large I'll know how to keep me and it safe!
Quite experienced in trailering a boat, but that pre measured bow line to the trailer sure beats my stupid old method of having my anchor line in the cab to stop the boat after it slides off the trailer. Thanks for the video, I think this is the most important thing I've learned after many years.
Indeed. The bow line and the mid-cleat tie-off were both great ideas although the spot he tied off the mid-line was not ideal because the boat could move backwards and that line could slip right off the end of that wooden, 2x4 rub strip. Probably better to tie it further up where there's a vertical post under that rub strip to stop the line from sliding out. He might've just done that to speed up the filming too, so I'm probably being a bit too fussy lol. But definitely an experienced fellow and a lot of excellent advice.
GoMiGman Maybe. With tension in the line I don't think it would slip.
Yeah, you're probably right. Plus this fellow has it made with a ramp dock that has rub strip rails already on the piers so he doesn't have to finagle around with fenders. Once you slide the boat off the trailer, usually you have to jump in and throw out your fenders and tie them off, often adjusting their height depending on the tide. I don't like to have my fenders already hanging before I slide the boat because they get all caught up on those glide posts, especially if they're all tightly tensioned like he has them. Mine have a little slack I find works better for recovery. So he has all the ideal conditions to make it as fast and easy as possible. Most of us have to deal with other conditions as well.
Boy that anchor must raise hell with the seat covers.
9-10 years ago I watched this video because my wife wasn't available. It's the best example and suggestions that I have found for a bunk trailer launching. I don't have the guides as Terry does but my bunk will hold the boat from moving even in 15 knot wind.
Put the plugs in, undo rear straps - worth mentioning and double-checking O_o
No... leave the plug out it drains the water from the boat.
:p
I almost never use rear straps. I have straps, it’s just my boat stays in a marina on a lift so it doesn’t get trailered often. When it does, it only goes like 20 miles to the mechanic shop and back again.
Most states rear straps are the law.
made the plug mistake once on a restored classic mako....definitely a mistake you only make once! 👍
you'd be amazed. My brother has made that mistake a handful of times... all with my boats and jet skis. He has his own now, incredible how he suddenly remembers the plugs all the time.
Motors tilted up and put the plug in too. Nice boat bro. Dusky252 down here in Merritt Island, FL.
Great video nice job , I'm green to all of this , so it's nice to view a show that isn't arrogant .
Yes it is.......I always wished I had those side stanchions that come up on both sides of the rear of my boat trailer , they are really helpful on windy days , plus I always had those boat dock fenders pre tied off on all my side cleats on my boat ...it made it easier to just hang them over whatever side I was docking on to prevent scratches and marks......on loading my boat , and since it was a open bow , I would gently power the boat back up on the trailer, and power it up until it was up against the front snubber...then I would leave the boat in foward gear with just enough throttle to keep it up against the front snubber ,then I would walk foward and lean over the bow ( I was able to do that on my boat ) and hook my safety hook and my winch hook....then go back and turn off the engine and pull my stern drive up ....hop out and pull the rig out of the way and into the parking lot where I would put the back straps on , wipe it down , unload it , pull the plug and drain water if needed etc ....oh and about that plug......always make sure it's in ......carry a spare one......and about your boat keys ? Make sure you have spares, and make sure they are on a bright colored floating key fob !.... I can't tell you how many times someone stuck the keys in their swim trunks pocket , for whatever reason , and then jumped over into the water , and then thought " oh shoot the keys !"...... we found our keys everytime bobbing on the water with our bright yellow key fob float .......we also used to carry a spare prop, nut, cotter pin , and the wrench to change it with.....plus spare fuses if needed .......another good piece of safety equipment in addition to fire extinguishers , is a set of oars ( in case your engine stalls out ) and a long pole to push your boat off of rocks and Cliff walls etc . In case your boat stalls .....and a nice tow rope or strap in case you need a tow in , or need to tow someone else in.........these simple tools are a big help in case of a stalled boat ........I've had to use both over the many years of boating ....and of course , make sure your trailer has a spare tire as well..........and .....happy Boating ! 😊
@@gloriamoreno8668 , good points that should have been included in this otherwise helpful video. I read if a person tows a boat in, when reaching shore, the tow boat owner can claim ownership of the towed boat and all contents under salvage law.
Boat in the water in a minute and a 1/2? Sheeeesh😧 IMPRESSIVE...I guess its like muscle memory, that you can do it with your eyes close. Good stuff. SUBBED
Ive been launching my 24 by myself for 15 years and I managed to pick up a few tips...thanks!
This video should be a must watch for all boat owners. I love it when people know their stuff and can present it in an easily learnable way.
One thing I saw the other day, worth mentioning. A guy launched a large boat, maybe as big as this guy, then drove over and parked his truck/trailer. As he walked away to go get on the boat, he did not notice one of the bunks had broken badly; I imagine he would have noticed when he got ready to retrieve (of course I told him) but it reminded me to always give a quick eyeball to your trailer once the boat is off and it is easy to check it out for signs of wear, rust, damage, whatever.
Last summer I had a bunk break on me. Didn't notice until the boat was already on the trailer. The aluminum was sitting on the bunk mount, not very good but it is a light boat.
Leash line great idea, I use it with my bay boat. My 35 I use a bow boarding ladder mounted to tongue of trailer
I had a boarding ladder installed on the tongue of my trailer also. Best investment ever
If everyone was as sharp as this guy, launching would be a dream!
I have a 26' Seaswirl Striper and I had always held the rope while in the driver's seat of my truck. I like the way this guy does it and will do it his way on my next launch.
Thanks for the great trailering tips. I would have never thought of using the bow line like that. I usually slack the winch and count on that
Quite a bit of useful information here for launching when you are solo. When I was young my father and I would launch our 16 foot off a tilt roller trailer pretty easily. He would back down with me in the boat. We had a small trolling motor on the transom and I had it ready to start as soon as he gave me a shove. Once in the water I wouldn't even go to the dock, just wait and circle around, for him to park and walk to the end of the dock. A quick nose in and he stepped on and we went out still under the small motor, and once clear of all the traffic dropped our main outboard and off we went. Reversed the process to take it back out. Thanks for the video and information.
I've watched awhile back, gained alot of great points of how too by yourself... I'm getting a larger Boat now, and here I am again, A Great Video, and confidence builder to start off with especially over 20 ft plus vessel... Must Watch Video...👍
I remember watching this video when I first started boating it helped a lot this video is short and to the point, I come back and watch it from time to time to keep good habits at the ramps..
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been launching for years, just went bigger to a 25 foot cabin cruiser for 30 years of launching never thought of attaching the rope to trailer with hook unhooked simple trick just so simple my mind did not think of it because I do a lot of solo launching. Funny you actually can teach an old dog new tricks also the mid rope trick. Thanks
myfunnyvideochannal; old dogs love new tricks. Makes us feel important. And its nice to be important as it is important to be nice.
I know the first time I try the mid rope trick there will be no cleat on the dock : )
I wanna laugh at you because the tying the boat to the trailer just seemed like a natural common sense thing to do. But after realizing I’m the dope who ties off the bow and stern lines needlessly I started laughing at myself. Yep another member of this old dog learned a new trick club here
Older dude myself I just learned a couple new tricks.... Going to Load my Trailer Guides for sure...Great info Capt. Thanks
@@andrewsusin7490 I don't have a mid cleat, but I take a line I have tied to the bow, run it around a cleat on the dock that's toward the middle of the boat, and then tie it off on my stern cleat. I only have to loosen the stern tie and pull the rope in the boat and I'm outta there.
Like Terry said, every boat, trailer and ramp are different. The very first thing that I do is to inspect the ramp to check the level of the tides and the condition of the ramp. Here in the Pacific (California), the tides may vary by as much as 6 feet in a day. If the tide is low, I must drive further down the ramp, but NOT PAST the end of the ramp or the trailer may get hung up. Thus at extreme low tide, I might wait an hour or two before launching or retrieving my boat. I try to plan my trailering at mid tide or higher by using a tide app, I use Tide Alert by NOAA.
I have a 2001 29 feet twin engine boat that I drive off or on to the bunk trailer. When I drive onto the trailer, I trim my drives up slightly so that the backwash will not damage the "earth" at the end of the ramp. I do not use Terry's method of launching the boat because my trailer does not have guild posts, so the water current and wind will move my boat sideways in a matter of seconds. I launch and retrieve solo, but use the method that works best for you when you are singlehanded.
One very important note is that Terry's boat had outboards and for his particular boat, he did not have to trim up the outboard before launching or retrieving his boat. My boat has sterndrives, so I ALWAYS trim my drives up before launching or retrieving my boat. The last thing that I want to do is to damage my propellers on the concrete ramp.
Watch the pros and practice on a day when the ramps are empty. Use your common sense and think it through and you be fine.
Awesome method. Best I've ever seen, by far. Great control using the upright guides on launching a boat. Thank you.
You left out one KEY piece of advice! When you back up the trailer, ALWAYS keep your window open!!! This is especially important if it is a power window. If something happens and you start going into the water, you need an exit strategy.
Mark Mancini very good advice I never thought of. I usually have my crew keep the windows of the truck open just so they can hear me if I holler.... but very good advice. Thank you
@@mr.glitterlungs6796 search for boat ramp fails and you will see why! :)
I launch alone 35 times a Year, and I totally agree with you, and another reason to keep it open is while backing up you can hear the rig (boat and trailer) and be aware, of it, I have heard many trailer that have pulled up to the launch sounding fine and when they start to backup up you can hear the bearings popping on the broke race.
I'm new to boating and this video help me fix the mistakes I've been making. Thanks for a great docking video.
It is a Pleasure knowing a Knowledgeable Guy, Terry Nugent what an excellent and precise presentation of something that may seem very cumbersome... thoroughly enjoyed your way of launching a large boat, although I don't own a boat....
A mid cleat is the best thing you can put on your boat. I've been doing it that way for years and it works great.
Thanks to your video, I added a mid cleat to my boat and that makes it easy to tie up at the ramp.
But see...he's smart and experienced. There plenty of boat owners who are not experienced and very stupid. Therefore...we have problems on boat ramps throughout our nation and the world.
sunking2001 the only way to gain experience is through experience. Cut them some slack.
sunking2001 yea this one dumb fucker untied my boat niece
Sometimes experience doesn't do the trick either. Much has to do with common sense...which a lot of people do not have.
sunking2001 this is one of the very charter boat captains in the northeast!!!
But those "problems" make for entertaining youtube videos. I just noticed one in the sidebar, a dark blue pickup truck in the water.
Probably the best video on this subject, short and sweet-no extra stuff but the stuff he said was to the point and no bullshit. Great job
Its all common sense to have your boat ready "before" launch but its the sorry people who have no regard for others that take up the ramp too long. I get furious waiting to launch while some jerk trailers his boat and stays at the ramp while he gathers his gear and wipes his boat down polishing everything like he's sooo much more important. All the while people are obviously waiting to launch
zash Not being shy, I love those moments.
Some of the best entertainment is going down to my local boat ramp here in western Australia a lot of boaters have no fucking idea
Some people just aren't born with the consideration gene. A-holes at the boat ramp are no different than the people who wait in a grocery store line for 20 minutes, wait for all their groceries to get rung up, wait for the total......then that's when they start their journey of finding their wallet buried at the bottom of their purse somewhere
I wish more people thought about what they are doing and how it affects others around them, and planned out the quickest, most efficient way to accomplish the task. Far too many people seem to just be winging it through life at every step of the way...totally inconsiderate to those around them. It drives me mad with frustration sometimes.
Don Kinzett ahhaha in from Queensland 👍
Very nice job. I always chock my truck wheels. Our ramps are real steep. Now I want you to do a video of loading that ship on the trailer in a real strong current.
Great job. Just remember to put the drain plug in.
I do it the same way but i have a longer line and i land the boat right to the dock. it so easy and fast. Another tip use neutral in truck when rolling down ramp, when you stop use emergency brake then put it in park, it takes stress off your park pin and tranny linkage. i had one pop out while on ramp once was not fun.
I think he did a good job on the video
I agree .....Roller trailers suck :)
Yah true
Great video but the whole bunk vs roller discussion is unnecessary and could have been avoided simply by leaving the safety chain and winch strap connected until point 6:05 in the video. That is the point where the back of the boat is in the water and the winch is still accessible with dry feet. The pre-measured line is a good idea. I always accomplished that task by taking my regular bow line and passing the loose end through the triangular portion of the trailer frame under the winch, and then tying it back to the bow cleat to form a loose loop that has the same amount of give as the pre-measured line. The loose end of the bow line is easily retrieved from on-board after the boat is floating.
Joe Paranee no they dont
I've recently repaired damage to a (lightweight) E-Scow hull because of it setting on a roller trailer, with all the stain on a few localized spots. I know more rollers might work, but the bunks I'm adding are going to work best. And cost far less.
Brilliant, i do exactly the same system with my Fletcher 17GTS works a treat everytime :)
Just watched this again to remind me of how it's done, thanks again for posting!!
All great advice. The one thing I would add from personal experience is to disconnect the trailer lights before putting the boat in the water. Some lights can burn out quickly when submerged.
The man knows his shit - valuable lessons
Yes but so does a Proctologist.
🤘
I love how at the end when he said let's go fishing they walked away from the boat lol ;)
What a great video Terry. Just about to purchase my first boat and I have been wondering about everything you just presented. Thanks so much
Lots of good information here. I run a roller trailer, and solo launching/loading is a pain sometimes when it's windy or busy. If I switched to a bunk trailer I'd set it up just like his. I hadn't considered running the uprights tight against the hull to hold it in place, and the extra bow line on the trailer is pretty nifty. With my trailer I've got to keep the winch and safety line hooked up because the rollers on my trailer work really really well. But, I use a lot of shallow water launches so the rollers have their benefits. Great video!
Been launching big and small 50 + years, could not find a single fault with your routine. Nice job
It confused me that in many videos the boater would disconnect that forward winch before backing down the ramp and then there were some saying don't do it until you're in the water.
You are the only person I've seen so far that made the light-bulb come after warning about roller style trailers.
Thank you for that.
Not only that, he does have that 10 foot tether.
Many vids on boats rolling off roller trailers onto the ramp.
This is a brilliant video. I just placed an order on my first offshore boat. Not as big as this guys but it helps a ton still. Thanks guys.
I like that retractable bow cleat. Very slick!
Do you have a system like this for when you are done and want to bring it back on and out of water?
i really like the emphasis on not tying up the dock unnecessarily, just takes a little thinking ahead and proper set up of your boat/trailer/truck. I've launched my 38 many many time by myself without issue and use many of the techniques here, mid cleat is is a favorite. Keep up the good work . . .
REALLY GOOD INFORMATION
Thank You
Thank you Capt. Terry Nugent. ‘Well understood. I got this... Appreciate it.
Finally someone that knows importance of ramp etiquette.. don't bring your 38 ice chest and 90 fishing poles down the ramp one at a time to put in your boat.. that's why there is a staging area lmao some people!!
Super. I love the info on the bunk vs roller trailer and the line to the trailer from the bow. Great idea. Thanks.
Great video. Thank you very much. I'm new to boating and these tips helped me a lot.
Very true about the drain plug , but on that boat its a screw in plug and I never take it out so its not part of my rotation. I don't unplug lights since the LEDS don't seem to have issues. Thanks for the great feedback. And yes I've done it a few times (about 100 times a season)
I bolted a 2 x 14 x 16 PT to the trailer as a walkway. GlennFHoward
I have launched my boat many times but I learned a lot from this video.Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks.Many thanks for a great video.
you can't tie down the fenders to the bow cleats before releasing the boat because they will get stuck on your uprights
507BigKahuna nah
You tie them down and keep them inside the boat. Then flip them out when the boat is off the trailer.
Freedom Talk Media- when the boat is off the trailer your still inside the truck and the boat would already be rubbing against the dock before you can hop out jump in your boat and throw them over- DUH
ultimatejay no your upright hold the boat until you back it out of them. You backing it out of them would mean you are in the boat.
snakebit- how did you get in the boat when you just backed it up in the water? You waded out in the water and climbed over the rail?
I also like to pull the power to the trailer lights (not sure if that helps but my fixtures rust out before I have a bad bulb) and check the plugs before dropping it in.
dude knows his $hit
I own a 1996 Float-On model 321AR and love it.
Wish i would have seen this 7 years ago... i taught myself the hard way....swimming after a boat sucks..lol.... great video , spot on
Happened to me once, thank god for the wind.... blew my boat back to the boat launch. Saved me from swimming after it lol
There is a 1000 videos on launching your boat. This is easily the best. I just launched my new 22 Tritoon by myself for the first time. It's a beast compared to the 18 speed boat I was use to. I wish I can say it was this easy. I did get it in nothing got hurt but I went on a cold day early.
I have been fishing a long time on boats mamy times by myself . I am changing the way I do things to this. thanks
Nice Boat and Trailer. Lots of walk around space.
On my little 21 ft I always unplug the Trailer Lights before launching to prevent a bulb from popping and once its disconnected from the trailer I walk my boat to the far end of the dock to make room for the next guy while im parking my trailer.
Yep you are right about the lights :) but Now I have converted to LED and have gotten just a bit lazy about it (but still a good idea)
ok guys lets go fishing..."walk away from boat"
Where'd I leave my boat *scratches head
they're getting the weapons,,,lol..
was fixing to say the same thing
They should've already loaded them. lol
to move the truck n trailer...
Awesome. Liked the emphasis on minimizing time on the ramp for the benefit of others. Respect from a New Zealand boatie.
Really good video, straight and to the point. Nothing fancy and well explained
Really like the comment about the mid-cleat. I have a Tritoon on the gulf. Once that thing is off the trailer, I have to be there with in seconds to secure it, or my stern is in the county.
If i own a contender and a f350 i would pay someone to launch the boat while im buying my beer.. wait a second.. maybe thats why i cant own them lol
Arizona ramps can be super slippery , I have seen more than one truck slide in with just the emergency brake set since it only locks the rear tires ( wheel chock at driver front for me )
also this TH-cam method works great if you can slide down next to a dock but that's not always the case
I find it much better to have a way to get onto the boat from the trailer tongue
this way i can launch center lanes of the ramp , no dock required , just back in , unhook , climb aboard and motor off, tie up or anchor a bit offshore and swim it ;-) , then park the tow vehicle , makes retrieval at a busy ramp with full docks easy also
This is how all TH-cam instructional videos should be made. Excellent job!
Simply AWESOME! Don't forget the drain plug!
One of the most helpful videos on TH-cam.
This is a GREAT video. I learned allot. Thanks for this. 🇨🇦👍🏼
Really great video. Would add one thing...Unplug your trailer lights prior to backing down the ramp. Everyone likes to think their lights are perfectly sealed, but I've shorted out more than a few trailer lights because water had found a seam.
Most big boats cannot unplug because the reverse signal through the plug keeps the brakes from engaging. Also, I would imagine once your lights fill up with salt water, they are on their way to quick failure whether on or not.
Damn dude skillz, that was extremely controlled
Great segment on launching your boat. I need to get a set of uprights. They really help in a tide or wind movement condition to keep the boat from floating over the fenders. I have trouble keeping our boat on center and noticed you had center guide bunks. Thank you for the video.
How about loading it back on the trailer ?
Very good video! Not like I would have done it, but will now. My new boat is only 18' and that will work for me when I go alone. Thank you
Awesome job thank you for sharing this with us Terry
Right on thanks for the video, very helpful
I like the center cleat idea thank you
Excellent. I am a novice and watching, reading and listening to every thing I can. This was very helpful. Thanks.
You should have your hubs locked In and in 4wheeldrive so you have front and rear axle holding
Used this technique last night to launch my new 25T Competition - worked like a charm ! Thanks Terry - Now wheres the Tuna biting - I launch out of Sesuit - Tight Lines
excellent example, safe, quick, and courteous