What You Should Know About Boating in Freezing Weather

Late-season boating can be an exhilarating way to enjoy fishing, hunting or simply exploring. However, operating your boat in freezing temperatures requires extra care and preparation. Follow these essential tips to keep your engine and yourself safe while braving the cold.

The Challenges of Boating in Winter

Why Boating in Freezing Weather is Unique - While many boaters have stored their vessels for the winter, some regions in the U.S. still offer outdoor activities well into the colder months. Mercury Marine outboards are built tough, rated to operate in temperatures as low as -15°C (+5°F). However, extreme cold can pose risks to your boat and engine if not handled correctly.

Preparing Your Outboard for Cold Weather

Check Oil Viscosity for FourStroke Engines - For Mercury Marine FourStroke outboards, consult your owner's manual to confirm the correct oil viscosity for freezing conditions. Using the proper oil ensures optimal performance in low temperatures.

Avoid "Duck Hunter’s Freeze-Up" - One common issue in freezing weather is the "duck hunter’s freeze-up," which occurs when tilting up the outboard traps water in the motor. In subfreezing temperatures, this water freezes and can cause severe engine damage.

Quick Tip: Always keep your motor in the down position when not running to prevent water from freezing inside.

Drain Your Bilge After Each Trip - After every outing, remove the hull drain plug and tilt the bow of your boat upward to allow all water to drain from the bilge. This step is essential to prevent ice from forming in your boat’s interior.

End-of-Season Winterization Tips

Proper winterization protects your boat and engine for the long months ahead. Here are the basic steps to follow:

Manage Your Fuel System

• Avoid Ethanol Damage: Gasoline with ethanol or methanol can form acids during storage, damaging your fuel system. Drain as much remaining gasoline as possible.
• Use Treated Fuel: Fill your tank and engine system with stabilized fuel to prevent varnish and gum buildup.

Additional Maintenance

• Review your engine’s owner manual for complete winterization steps specific to your outboard.
• Ensure your boat is fully dry and clean before storing it for the season.

Cold-Weather Boating Safety Tips

Gear Up for the Elements - Prepare for the chill with proper cold-weather gear including a float coat and insulated bib pants. Layers are essential for staying warm and safe.

Always Wear a Lifejacket - Cold water significantly reduces your mobility so always wear a lifejacket when boating in freezing weather. Practice reboarding techniques to ensure you can quickly get back onboard if you fall into icy water.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Winter Boating Safely

By following these cold-weather tips, you can safely enjoy late-season fishing and hunting while preparing your boat for spring. Stay proactive with maintenance and safety and winter boating can be one of the most rewarding experiences on the water.