How to Secure a Boat Bow to a Trailer

The bow is the front of the boat.

An improperly secured boat bow seriously affects trailer and towing safety. If the bow is not securely attached to the trailer, the boat will jump around as it is towed, and the weight of the loose boat will cause the trailer to sway. Damage to the boat and trailer becomes a possibility, and a swaying trailer poses danger to drivers on the road. Preparation and attention to detail when securing the bow to the trailer will put you on a safe route home after a day of boating.

Instructions

1. 

   The "stop" is located at the front of the trailer.

   Drive the boat from the water onto the trailer, keeping it centered as much as possible. Drive it all the way to the front of the trailer, so the boat sits tightly against the rubber "stop." Leave the boat motor running, employing a slight forward thrust on the motor if necessary to keep the boat in place.

2. Hook the trailer's safety chain through the eyelet on the bow of the boat, located near the "stop."

3. Lower the lever on the ratchet to loosen the wench strap on the front of the trailer. Hook the strap to the boat through the same eyelet as the safety chain. Raise the lever to lock the wench in place, and tighten the strap. Adjust any remaining off-centeredness with the motor.

4. Pull the boat out of the water. Walk around the trailer to determine if the boat sits tightly and is fully centered on the trailer planks. Check the tightness of the wench and tighten it if necessary. The bow of the boat is now secured to the trailer.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use the trailer that is meant for the boat being towed. A trailer that is too large or too small will prevent the boat from sitting snugly.

• It is helpful to have two people for this job.

• Wear a life jacket and keep safety first.

Resources

• Discover Boating: Towing & Trailering