​​How To Successfully Tow and Launch Your Boat​

Do you know how to properly tow and successfully launch your boat into the water? 

Most responsible boaters do. They know the steps to take when to position your boat onto the launch and the exact moment where the boat is detached from the trailer. To get it right requires skill and patience, along with some art and science.  

However, did you know that there are some who have not mastered the art of launching a bat into the lake, sea, or river – or think they know what they’re doing, but fail various times before getting things right?

It happens to the best of us – but there are some things you can do to help ensure every attempt at a boat launch is a successful one. 

The first step is making sure that your boat is secured onto a trailer, and that the trailer is properly hitched and connected to your GMC.  Your arrival at the launch is just the beginning of what will be a great day on the water. 

Now that you’re at the launch, there are a few steps to take in order to properly float your boat. Before you attempt to back down the launch ramp, make sure you’ve already loaded all the gear and belongings you’ll need for your day on the water within the boat itself. Make sure the drain plug is installed and properly torqued, remove any stern-mounted securement straps, disconnect the trailer wiring connector near the trailer hitch, and if equipped, engage your boat’s engine compartment blower motor. We’d also suggest tieing a line or two to your boat’s cleats at this point in time, or if desired, secure any fenders in order to help protect your boat’s hull from the dock.  

Then, you position your tow vehicle to reverse the trailer and the boat directly into the landing. You should not make any turns once you are at this point. You can also use the trailer guidance points on your GMC’s touchscreen camera to help guide your vehicle and trailer into the water. The ProGrade Trailering System is a great tool to utilize from this point onward.  

Now, back your trailer and vehicle slowly. This is not a race. Still, use the tools available to you to ensure proper loading of the boat into the water.  

When you know that the winch is about to go underwater – or, really, once you see your boat begin to float, stop the vehicle and trailer. If you haven’t already, now’s the time to release the winch hook from the bow of the boat, and also the time to secure the lines you previously attached to the dock.  At this point, it’s time to slowly drive forward and find a parking space. Depending on the ramp conditions, it might be wise to engage four-wheel drive on your tow vehicle if it’s so equipped.  

This can be a tricky operation, but if you get it right, your time on the water will be a very enjoyable one.  

Maybe you’re still missing something. That’s right – a GMC with a trailer package and the ProGrade Trailering System! To see how it all works together, contact us at Valley GMC and we can show you everything you need to know before putting your boar in the water on the next trip.