Cleaning the boat after a successful fishing trip is a chore most of us don’t relish. But a thorough washdown after exposure to salt spray helps protect against corrosion and other problems and maximizes the boat’s value. Here are some ways to make the task as quick and easy as possible.
Start by making it harder for dirt and salt crystals to stick. A coat of marine wax at least twice a year (before and after the prime season) makes short work of scrubbing and adds a protective barrier for the gelcoat and other finishes. Be careful of applying wax to non-skid, though, for obvious reasons.
If your boat is equipped with a salt or freshwater washdown system, don’t hesitate to use it while fishing. Blood and slime comes off much easier while it’s still wet. Let it bake all day in the blazing sun and you’ll be cussing while you toil with the scrub brush afterwards. A long-handled boat brush dipped overboard will also work if you don’t have a washdown system.
Speaking of brushes, make sure to use the right one to avoid damage. Generally white bristle attachments are coarse and stiff, good for scouring non-skid and other…
