7 UNIQUE BOAT COVER ACCESSORIES THAT EVERY FISHING BOAT OWNER NEEDS TO CONSIDER
Summer is here, and that means fun in the sun. If you're the proud owner of a boat, this is the perfect time to hit the open water and get some fishing in. To keep your boat in tip-top condition, however, you need to protect it when you're not using it.
And while mass produced covers can serve a purpose, they rarely provide a perfect fit for your boat, especially with all of the unique customizations you’ve made to it.
Why Do You Need a Boat Cover?
Life happens. Whether your boat is on the water or sitting in a dry dock, it's going to face the forces of nature. This can come in the form of hard rains, rough waves, hail and sleet, birds droppings, or other boaters who aren't as concerned about your boat as you are.
Then there are things as small as dust particles. Who would have thought that such a tiny thing could do so much lasting damage? Yet it can.
A boat cover can help prevent much of this from happening. If it's well sealed, of course. A loose cover filled with gaps might prevent some damage, but it certainly won't prevent it all.
Having the right cover will not only prevent damage to your boat, but it helps keep it looking new and shiny. So, if you’re a boat owner who cares to keep your boat clean (protecting your time constantly cleaning) and protected from the elements, having a cover that fits perfectly is a valuable investment.
Trolling Motor Covers
There are some people that recommend you just slap a canvas bag over your trolling motor, and then add your boat cover. Does it work? Yes. Is it going to protect your trolling motor in the long term? Probably not.
Boats can be a huge investment, so rather than taking shortcuts, invest a little more now, so you aren't paying high prices in repairs later on. A customized trolling motor cover will ensure that you get a great fit regardless of how your trolling motor is mounted (in many cases our covers accommodate a bow mounted motor underneath the cover).
Hull Bras
If you're on the water, a hull bra is completely unnecessary. Until you load it up for the trip home, that is.
A custom hull cover protects the hull of your boat when you’re traveling for long distances or over gravel roads. This protects from small rocks bouncing up into your boat, leaving your hull scuffed, chipped or cracked.
WIth a rugged, durable fabric exterior and a soft, safe interior, this “truck tarp” boat cover is exactly what you need to protect your time on the water; especially if you trailer your boat frequently.
Gas Flaps & Notches
There are plenty of things more frustrating than trying to untie the cover to reach the gas cap when it's time to fill up. Except when you're actually trying to find the gas cap. Then it can seem like the most irritating task you've ever done.
A gas flap or well designed notch in the cover seems simple enough, but it can save time when you're at the pumps. Simply slide the velcro gas flap back, fill up, and get ready to go.
Boat Cover Venting
While most boat covers are designed to keep stuff out of your boat, it’s also important to choose a boat cover fabric that is breathable and has the appropriate venting.
Although these vents won’t completely dry out your wet boat, they will aid in the breathability of your cover. This is important because research shows that many boat interiors can reach temps of over 200 degrees which can damage electronics, upholstery and other items inside a boat. Not to mention that properly designed covers have vents that will reduce moisture, mold, mildew, and minimize heat damage.
So can small animals that know how to burrow their way into places they don't belong. If you live in an area with lots of humidity, moisture, or dust, then investing in interior covers can save you a lot of money later on down the line as well.
Ski or Wake Tower Covers
As fun as skiing is, putting the boat cover over the racks when it's time to call it a day isn't. In fact, it can be the one part of the trip you really begin to dread. Especially if you're using a generic cover that wasn't designed with your boat and ski rack in mind.
A custom Cover that accommodates or even covers your ski tower can make all the differences when loading up to go home. Having a cover that slips over the way it's supposed to, as opposed to tugging, jerking, and dragging will save you time.
Outboard Motor Covers
The outboard motor might just be the most important part of your boat. If it doesn't crank, you're stuck sitting in the water while everyone else is off having the time of their life. Strangely enough, the sun is one of the prime suspects to leave lasting damage to outboard hoods.
It's shocking just how much damage simple UV rays can do to the motor hood as well as bugs and birds. While it may not be that obvious when the damage first begins to happen, a year or two later will show just how much the sun can fade your outboard motor.
Gravel, bugs, and debris from the road can also leave your engine looking less than water ready. It may not damage the engine so badly it can't run, but it's better to avoid this by using a cover than letting it just happen. A proper outboard motor cover should fit snug, offer multiple ways to secure from flapping in the wind or cause chaffing on the paint or decals.
Exterior Covers
Why protect the interior if you aren't going to cover the exterior? The outside of the boat is what most people notice first. It's also the part that will take most of the beating during storms, trailering, and anything else that happens on your boat.
It seems simple enough to just slap any old cover on, but a custom cover will fit more securely. This means more of the boat is protected, which is a win-win for you.
Let Us Help
If you're interested in getting a new custom boat cover, Canvas Craft can help. We use only the finest fabrics, and design each cover based on your boat, not someone else's. Plus, our covers are backed by a two-year warranty.
Ready to get started? Contact us today for an estimate, and to learn more about our products.