Boat Trailer Safety: Tips Before You Tow to the Lake

Whether you’re an experienced angler who’s been taking the boat out for decades or a beginner heading out for your first fall fishing trip, one thing is universal: a safe tow makes for a better day on the water. From avoiding roadside breakdowns to making launching smooth at the boat ramp, these trailer safety tips will help you spend less time worrying and more time fishing.

1. Check Your Hitch & Coupler Connection

The most important step before hitting the road is making sure your trailer is properly hitched.

• Verify the coupler is fully seated on the hitch ball.

• Lock the latch and insert a safety pin or coupler lock.

• Double-check your safety chains are crossed under the coupler for extra security.

2. Inspect Tires & Pressure

Trailer tires are often overlooked, but they carry a heavy load. 

• Check for proper inflation — underinflated tires are a leading cause of blowouts.

• Look for cracks, bulges, or worn tread.

• Don’t forget the spare — make sure it’s road-ready too.

3. Test Lights & Wiring

Visibility keeps you and everyone else on the road safe.

• Test brake lights, running lights, and turn signals before leaving the driveway.

• Ensure the trailer wiring harness is firmly connected and secured to the tow vehicle.

• Keep electrical connections clean and dry to avoid corrosion.

4. Balance Your Load

A properly balanced load prevents swaying and makes towing safer.

• Aim for 60% of your boat’s weight over the front half of the trailer.

• Adjust gear and coolers inside the boat to avoid excess rear weight.

• Tongue weight should be about 10–15% of total trailer weight.

5. Secure Your Boat

Even if you’re driving just a few kilometers, your boat must be strapped down.

• Use transom tie-downs at the back of the boat.

• Secure the bow with a winch strap AND safety chain.

• Consider adding gunwale or additional straps if you’re driving long distances.

6. Practice Safe Launching at the Ramp

The boat ramp is where accidents often happen. There is always room for forgiveness when you're new, but do your best to avoid accidents and respect other boaters.

• Prep your boat away from the ramp. Remove covers, load gear, unhook straps BEFORE you reverse to the ramp.

• Back in slowly and use a spotter if possible.

• NEVER unhook the winch strap until the boat is over the water.

7. Don’t Forget the Small Stuff

A few extra checks can save your fishing trip:

• Keep a spare hub kit or bearing grease handy — fall trips can be tough on trailers.

• Carry wheel chocks for stability while parked.

• Pack an emergency roadside kit (flares, flashlight, first aid).

• 

Final Cast

Whether you’re hauling your boat to a new lake or just making one last fall fishing trip before winter, taking the time to check your trailer ensures you’ll arrive safely. After all, the only thing you should be worried about is whether the fish are biting and having a good time in the great outdoors.