As temperatures drop and fishing trips slow down, now’s the time to show your gear and boat a little love. Proper winterization not only protects your investment but also makes it easier to hit the water when spring rolls around.

Here’s a quick checklist to get started:

• Clean and dry all gear: Rinse rods, reels, and tackle with fresh water to remove dirt, salt, and grime. Let everything dry completely to prevent corrosion.

• Loosen reel drags and oil moving parts: Store reels with a light coat of reel oil and loosened drag to keep them smooth and ready.

• Inspect and organize tackle: Sharpen hooks, replace rusty ones, and restock your go-to lures for spring.

• Fuel and motor care: Add fuel stabilizer to your boat’s gas tank and run the engine briefly to circulate it. Change the oil and fog the motor to protect it through cold months.

• Battery and storage: Disconnect the battery, clean terminals, and store it in a dry place. Cover your boat and store it level to avoid pooling water or ice damage.

Taking an afternoon now saves you a weekend of frustration later and ensures you’re ready to hit the water the moment you’re ready. Subscribe to our monthly fishing report below to see the latest information on how the fish are biting!