Boat & Trailer Checklist

Our Series of Boats
Resources
Discover Sportsman Design Studio Pricing Compare Store Find a Dealer →
Series

Open

9 Models • 21' → 40'

Built for families who want serious offshore capability, premium comfort and the freedom to fish, cruise or entertain.

Side image of the Open 402

Open 402

Side image of the Open 352

Open 352

Side image of the Open 322

Open 322

Side image of the Open 302

Open 302

Side image of the Open 282

Open 282

Side image of the Open 262

Open 262

Side image of the Open 252

Open 252

Side image of the Open 232

Open 232

Side image of the Open 212

Open 212

Series

Heritage

4 Models • 23' → 32'

A refined crossover lineup designed for coastal cruising, ample seating, family days and some fishing when the moment calls for it.

Side image of the Heritage 321

Heritage 321

Side image of the Heritage 261

Heritage 261

Side image of the Heritage 251

Heritage 251

Side image of the Heritage 231

Heritage 231

Series

Masters

6 Models • 22' → 28'

Shallow-water performance, fishing-focused layouts and everyday comfort built for family life and fishing.

Side image of the Masters 287

Masters 287

Side image of the Masters 267OE

Masters 267

Side image of the Masters 267OE

Masters 267OE

Side image of the Masters 247

Masters 247

Side image of the Masters 247OE

Masters 247OE

Side image of the Masters 227

Masters 227

 
Blog > Boat & Trailer Checklist

Let's take a moment to check your boat and trailer before you head off into your next adventure.

January 21, 2019
Cover image for the post Boat & Trailer Checklist
  • Verify the trailer hitch setup before leaving: use the correct ball size and ensure the hitch latch is secured.
  • Attach safety chains and connect the trailer electrical plug, then test the lights and brakes.
  • Tighten the winch strap and secure the drain plug, then fasten the safety straps.

So, you just purchased your new Sportsman Boat. Now, it’s time to hit the water with friends and family. Making sure your boat is properly attached to the truck, as well as other safety items, are curial to your day on the water. Let’s take a moment to go over a few quick steps and things to check before leaving the house.

1.) Make sure the trailer ball is the correct size. Your trailer will indicate the proper ball size.

2.) Attach trailer to truck, making sure the ball is fully covered by the trailer and the latch fastens properly.

Boat lingo for the new boat owner. 3.) Attach safety chains. Boat lingo for the new boat owner. 4.) Attach trailer light plug. If your trailer has brakes, it will typically have a 5 pin straight connector requiring an adapter for most modern trucks, as seen in this picture. That adapter is known as a "7-Way to 5-Way Trailer Adapter" and is easy to find online or at most auto parts stores. Boat lingo for the new boat owner. 5.) Make sure the winch strap is tight and locked in place. Boat lingo for the new boat owner.

Moving towards the rear of the boat let’s check that our turn signals and breaks work and that our plug is secured in drain hole.

6.) Check trailer lights to make sure they are working. 7.) Secure drain plug and make sure to not overtighten.

Boat lingo for the new boat owner. 8.) Safety straps secured.

Now the trailer and boat are ready to hit the water.