Best Snap-On Boat Covers for Pontoon Boats
A pontoon boat is a worthwhile investment that will bring enjoyment to you and your family for years to come. Maintaining the condition of your boat is important to ensure its long-term durability and appearance. The furniture, boat accessories and gear can last significantly longer with the proper maintenance and care
What is the simplest and most cost-effective way to protect your boat? That’s easy – a cover.
The best covers will act as a solid, protective barrier between your boat and the outside elements. From lightweight to heavy-duty, there are many options available.
While this topic was previously discussed in the article: The Best Boat Covers of 2019, this article specifically covers pontoon boats. We will go over several options to help narrow down the playing field to the best cover protection for your boat.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WHAT A PONTOON BOAT COVER CAN DO
A pontoon boat cover works by wrapping around the exterior of the boat. Many of these polyester canvases work like a tent, with inserted poles that the cover wraps around. The base is often tightened with ropes, buckle straps, or some sort of stretch cord.
What is the point of this type of cover for a pontoon boat?
Consider that, if left uncovered, the inside of the boat would be susceptible to the outdoor elements. Rain, snow, and UV damage can cause irreversible damage to your boat. Keeping moisture out of the boat will also help prevent mildew and mold buildup.
Debris can easily fall into and coat the inside of the boat. Sticks, pollen, dirt, and even nest building insects can wreak havoc on the lining and fabrics inside the boat. Bird droppings are a nuisance that can be avoided by using a cover. Animal droppings can carry harmful bacteria and diseases, so it is best to keep the critters out. A cover secured in place can also protect any equipment stored onboard.
Even though the cover is an extra, upfront cost, the long-term benefits of protecting your boat will pay off. Avoid costly repairs and pay less up front by purchasing a decent cover. Now that you know what a cover can do, it is time to consider a few things before making that final choice.
Things to consider in choosing...
There are so many options to consider when you’re in the market for a new boat cover. We want to help you make the right choice, so let’s make sure you have your bases covered.
WATER PROOF OR WATER RESISTANT
The fabric on many of these covers are treated with a water-resistant coating. This type of coating will act as a barrier, but will not be able to withstand heavy rainfall or standing water. You might want to invest in a cover that can stand up to rainfall if this is a major consideration.
MATERIAL DIFFERENCES
The main two types of material that you are likely to see when browsing for a pontoon boat cover are cotton canvas and synthetic material, like polyester. Synthetic blends are often more protective than their cotton counterparts due to an added layer of acrylic. The extra protection assists in keeping the water out.
To get technical with the material types, there is a durability measurement, called denier. This measurement represents the thickness and stability of the cover. For better protection, thicker covers are better. For a specific number, 600D or higher is typically considered high quality material.
OPT FOR THE BIGGER SIZES
Opting for the next size up will help you avoid struggling with a too small product when covering your pontoon. This is especially true if your boat is in between the listed sizes or on the end of the listed size for the cover.
AVOID BRIGHT COLORS
You may be tempted to purchase a bright and appealing cover. However, do not be tempted by colorful covers. These covers often have a reputation for bleeding into your boat’s upholstery.
BUY FOR YOUR NEEDS
Not all pontoon boat covers are made equal. And, no, we do not mean differences in quality here.
Some covers are made for boats that spend lengthy periods in the water. Others are lightweight and great for storing in a shed or somewhere covered. Meanwhile, others are made to be trailered. Since these covers will need to withstand high speeds/winds, they are often equipped with extra ties and air vents to prevent ballooning.
STORING AND WINTERIZING YOUR PONTOON BOATS
Storing your boat for the winter is a little more involved than slapping a nice cover on and calling it a season.
CLEAN YOUR BOAT
Sounds simple enough, but this process is time consuming. You will need to clean inside and out to prevent mildew, hardened debris, and any food residue that would attract critters. Remove all your gear and extra accessories and give your boat a proper scrub and vacuum. Apply mildew and rust protection, making sure to wait until everything is completely dry before covering.
To protect your engine, you will want to check your boat’s manufacturer guide. Most will follow these steps: Disconnect the battery and/or drain the engine, spray fogging oil into the carburetor and all around disconnected spark plugs, empty the gas tank to about ¾ full and fill the engine with propylene glycol based antifreeze, ensure all valves and seals are shut off, and change oil and oil filters as well.
Now it is time to cover your boat with your pontoon boat cover. Make sure there is some air flow to prevent mold buildup.
Make sure that you update your insurance policy to protect yourself against theft. Depending on where you are storing your boat, you will need to take appropriate actions to prevent vandalism.
PRODUCT REVIEWS
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
EmpireCovers Aqua Armor Pontoon Boat Covers brings a top of the line cover to your pontoon boat. This cover is ideal for those who do not have a boat garage to house their boat. This cover protects against most of the elements. It blocks snow, sun, heavy rains and winds. This cover will keep those elements from penetrating to the boat below the distinctive blue cover.
Not only does the Aqua Armor act as a block against damaging weather, it is 100% waterproof. It does not simply repel or resist water, but the 1,200 Denier polyester fabric causes water to bead and drip off. The breathable material will protect against mildew, dampness and musty odors Heavy duty shock cord hem gives the snug fit you desire when traveling with your boat, or if it is sitting in rough wind.
Pros
Cons
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Classic Accessories StormPro has crafted this marine grade pontoon boat cover. Although this cover can cost over $200, we definitely feel that this product is worth it. This boat cover was designed to last and will not shrink or stretch with heavy use.The cover remains durable with heavy use or in heavy storms. The cover is made with high-strength, water resistant polyester fabric. Once in place, the cover has a sleek appearance that adds to its appeal.
The elastic hem, adjustable transom flap, and buckled strapping system will keep this cover in place even during intense winds while duel air vents prevent ballooning. This remains true for high traveling speeds as well.
A definite bonus that comes with the StormPro is the storage bag that comes with the purchase. This gives you a place to store the cover when the boat is in use.
Classic Accessories wants you to purchase peace of mind, not just a product. This is why they make sure that they take care of you after the purchase with quality US-based customer service and a five-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
Overall Rating: 3.0/5
![](http://<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Brightent-Pontoon-Trailer-Fishing-Covers/dp/B00RDDDSC4/ref=as_li_ss_il?keywords=boat+cover&qid=1566391363&refinements=p_n_feature_keywords_browse-bin:2773882011&rnid=2773879011&s=boating-water-sports&sr=1-4&linkCode=li2&tag=lakeliving0f-20&linkId=a0d79f3ee965407a2ae713c816cdbfdb&language=en_US" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00RDDDSC4&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=lakeliving0f-20&language=en_US" ></a><img src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=lakeliving0f-20&language=en_US&l=li2&o=1&a=B00RDDDSC4" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />)
The Brightent pontoon cover is easy on the budget, so If you are looking for adequate protection at a great deal, this cover may be right for you. There are two size options along with the adjustable straps, so getting this cover to fit snugly on your pontoon boat should not be an issue.
The material is 240D woven polyester and treated with PU, water repellent, and UV-proof coating. While this is a wonderful cover, it is not heavy-duty when compared to some of the others on this list. One of the benefits to this is that one person can manage to fit the cover on without assistance. It is also easy to fold for storage and washing.
The fabric is strong and works well for short-term storage.
Pros
Cons
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
You will have your choice of three colors with this MSC Trailerable pontoon boat cover; specifically, beige, blue, or a nice grey. The Trailerable is our choice for a practical cover. Several sizes are offered so you can make sure you get one that fits your boat snugly, so you can travel or store it with no worries.
The durable, marine grade polyester canvas is tough and capable of withstanding strong winds and a variety of natural elements. This cover is specifically designed for both long-term storage and highway travel, so the tough fabric is essential.
No matter the shape of your boat, this cover should adjust to fit it.
Pros
Cons
Overall Rating: 3.0/5
Another product from Classic Accessories is the Stellex. This cover is marine grade strength. The classic blue cover looks sharp once fit snugly on your boat. The cover has weather, UV, and mildew protective coatings.
An adjustable transom flap and elastic cord provide a tighter, more custom fit for your pontoon while a rope attaches through D-rings for a tailored fit. A bonus with this cover is that the fabric is 20% lighter, making it easier to handle.
Pros
Cons
Wrapping Up!
Year-round considerations for protecting your pontoon boat are essential in its upkeep. A good cover will benefit your boat through each season and all the different elements and challenges that they bring along with them. This means that if you get a quality cover, you can even use it for winterization. Follow our guide and considerations to help choose the best snap-on cover for your pontoon boat. If you have never thought a-boat it, now is the time to keep your investment afloat.
Is Lake Water Safe to Swim in?
Summer is all about getting outside, enjoying some fresh air, and basking in that summer sun. It’s hot outside though, and that lake starts to look more and more tempting as the temperatures rise.
Whether you’d like to swim in a lake that you know of, or you found a secret swimming hole on your vacation, take a moment to consider whether it’s safe to swim in before you jump in. These warning signs will make it easy to judge if that lake will be as safe as it is refreshing.
Is Lake Water Safe to Swim in?
Sometimes, it can be easy to figure out if a lake is safe to swim in. For instance, if a lake in your neighborhood never has people jumping in, you can assume there’s a reason why.
There are other warning signs though of dangers that can pose a risk while swimming, or which can foreshadow possible illness if you jump in. To protect yourself and your friends, take a look here for some guidelines.
Check Yourself
Part of swimming safely in a lake is to check yourself first. If you’re not feeling well, don’t risk it. Hang out on the side and stick only your feet in. Do not jump into any natural lake with an open wound either.
Is that Algae?
?
Take a look around the river. Do you see algae building up? Even in a still lake or river, you might see some algae. This little green plane looks harmless, but if there’s a lot of it, be cautious. If you swim during an algae bloom, there is a risk of getting sick, especially if you drink some of the water accidentally.
Not all algae are harmful, but there are certain types like cyanobacteria that can be dangerous. Cyanobacteria can be toxic, causing irritation if you touch it and internal damage if you swallow it.
But if you're like me, you probably aren't an algae expert. In terms of knowing if the algae are in bloom or if it's dangerous, you should be able to pick out a distinct smell. It will be off-putting and is a good sign that you shouldn't jump in.
Check Your Surroundings
One thing that people forget when swimming in lakes: there’s no lifeguard. If someone gets hurt, you need to be prepared to help them. This is especially true if you’re swimming with young children; keep an eye on them at all times.
Also, check to see if you can see the bottom of the lake. If you can't, this isn't necessarily a problem, but it's better to know what you'll encounter and how deep the water is just in case you have any problems staying afloat. This is especially true when it comes to slippery rocks. Those can be very dangerous since people are known to slip and hit their heads.
A Fast Current
!
You might find a beautiful lake to swim in that has a current to it. It’s easy to think that you’ll be able to move right though, but powerful swimming currents are hard to combat. Before you jump in, take a second to think about how fast that current is moving and if your swimming skills are good enough to match up.
Don’t pretend you’re a better swimmer than you are. Step your feet in the water to test how strong the current is. Be sure not to go in any further, even in shallow water. Another method is to throw a stick into the water to see how fast it moves. If you couldn’t catch the stick if you swim after it, you’re at risk to be overpowered in the current.
Also, check to be sure that no current lead to anywhere dangerous. This isn't a movie; you don't want to end up falling down a waterfall because the current is too strong. Try looking for a place with a calm current, or no current at all.
River Merging
!
Speaking of currents, the current will be strongest when two rivers meet. This spot will be much stronger than the current for individual rivers and can baffle even the most experienced swimmers. Make sure there are no dangerous areas like this when you begin swimming.
You can check for other danger signs too, like rocks or sharp turns in the river. If you do get swept down the current for a moment, you don’t want to accidentally get tripped up and hurt by some rocks.
See Any Signs?
!
Check around you to see if there are any signs posted around the area. If the land is publicly owned, these signs will let you know what is safe and what isn’t safe. For instance, if there’s a sign that says “no diving,” this means that it won’t be safe to jump in head first. Always make sure to check the water’s depth before you dive in anyway.
Take a look online to see the status of the water for public swimming spots too. Many states list the swimming conditions for public lakes so you can see if the water has been contaminated.
Water Testing
!
People can get ill from swimming in streams that are contaminated with fecal matter. This might be because the lake is near farmland where animals live or where there are other contaminants like fertilizers. If you’re going to swim near an area like this, pick up a product like API Master Test Kits.
These kits are made to test and monitor the water quality, checking for the pH balance, ammonia, nitrite, and phosphate levels. They're not overly expensive and can be used to test places the EPA hasn't gotten to.
API Master Test Kits
4.5
Conclusion
Swimming safely can feel like a hassle when you just want to jump in the river and cool off after a hot day, but it’s definitely worth it. Before you run off to have a great time, think about the safety of the lake you’re considering.
Some signs will be obvious, like actual signs, but others, like algae, may take a minute. Either way, you’ll be thankful that you’ve remained safe and in good health when you jump in.
Best Pontoon Swim Raft
Everyone wants more space in their home, whether you’re on land or on the water. Yes, on the water. If you own a pontoon boat, you already know how useful pontoon swim rafts are for adding to your limited space. However, you might feel hesitant about buying one. There are different sizes and options for families and different uses. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the top pontoon swim rafts to help you make an informed decision.
Product Reviews
Best Overall: Intex Giant Inflatable Floating Mat
This giant floating mat by Intex is made to give you lots of space to relax on the water with your friends and family. It’s designed to provide you with the most amount of comfort by keeping you right at the water’s surface. You’ll be able to feel a bit of water to keep cool without feeling like you’re being flooded.
Attach this floating mat to other floats using the float connectors. If you don’t have enough room with one, you’ll certainly have enough space when you connect them together. No matter how many mats you have, they’ll all fold up small for storage until you’re ready to get out on the water again.
Pros
Cons
x It takes a long time to inflate, and there are few instructions for it
Supersized:Aqua Expandable Floating Island Raft
The Aqua Expandable Floating Island Raft gives you a large amount of space. As the name suggests, this platform is expandable, giving you more than enough room to relax in the water with your friends. Lay back on the water-activated fabric, which gets bolder and brighter when it hits the water. Not to mention that it’s so soft, making it perfect for laying out in the sun.
This floating island raft isn’t only eye-catching but durable too. It’s heavy-duty, with extreme buoyancy and stability. There are zippers on three sides of it too, meaning that you’re able to connect multiple planks to create an even bigger island of rafts.
Connect a whole bunch without worrying about toppling it, especially since you have anchor dock points as well. The mooring loops will help you anchor the raft so there are no worries about floating away.
When you’re completely finished, use the EZ in-out air valves, which help the raft deflate and inflate easily. A portable air pump will help you get out on the water even faster.
Pros
Cons
x It takes a long time to inflate, and there are few instructions for it
Top Quality:Solstice Inflatable Floating Dock
If you’re looking for top quality, your search stops right here with the Solstice Inflatable Floating Dock. It’s designed to be rigid with high pressure to stay afloat when you step out on the water. Thanks to the drop-stitch construction, this raft will remain strong no matter what you throw at it. This swim raft supports 3 to 5 people, standing or sitting.
Use the 6 stainless steel D-ring tie-downs to keep the raft completely stable. When you want to move it, the 6 reinforced grab handles can help you get a good grip. And once you’re all done, the H3 high-pressure valve is meant to make inflating and deflating easy. Just be sure to inflate between 7 and 10 PSI for the optimal flotation once you’re out on the water.
Pros
Cons
x It might take some practice to stabilize this raft
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Benefits of a Pontoon Swim Raft
All of these rafts are generally easy to install and that they can be used for many uses, not just boating. Attach one to help with swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, or other underwater tasks. They're designed to be stable to increase your available space, but there's more to them than that.
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Safety
All swim rafts are designed with safety in mind. This means that they are resistant to slipping, have soft and round edges in case you do happen to slip off and are made from durable, high-quality materials. No matter what you encounter, you will remain safe.
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Comfort
You can rest and relax on one of these rafts since they are designed to be large. They have plenty of room to spread out, even if there are other people on the raft. Of course, you won't slip with the patterns underfoot that provide you with some traction.
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Ease of Use
With the included ladder some of these options have, you can get in and out of the water with ease. It’s also easy to install the raft and anchor it to keep it perfectly steady. Attach the rope firmly and you can relax without worrying.
Conclusion:
It can be difficult to choose the best pontoon swim raft for your needs. You want something durable, strong, and not to mention spacious. Choose a larger option if space is your priority, or pick out one that has the quality you’d like when you go out on the water. No matter which option you choose, you can relax in luxury, floating out over the water in your very own swim platform.
Top Benefits of Swimming Gloves
Swimming is not only a fun and relaxing past-time, it's also a challenging and effective form of exercise. All you really need to get a great workout in the pool is your swimsuit and a pair of goggles. Swimming is a great alternative to gym workouts and gives you a total body workout that's lower impact.
What a lot of people don’t realize is that there actually are some useful types of workout equipment and accessories that you can use to maximize your pool workouts. One of the most effective and easy to use items is swimming gloves.
Challenge yourself and get in a much more efficient workout with a good pair of swimming gloves, whether you’re taking a water aerobics class, water jogging or simply swimming laps.
Swim Gloves Benefits
Swimming gloves are a pretty straightforward concept. They’re simply gloves that add a webbing between your fingers. Some will cover your entire finger, while others just cover up to the knuckle. You can choose to get gloves with a more flexible rubber webbing that allows for more hand mobility or gloves with stiffer webbing that keeps your fingers spread apart.
Although the design is so simple, they really make an impact and offer many benefits.
Added
Resistance
In any workout, added resistance is one of the top swim glove benefits and one of the best ways to build muscle and stamina. The webbing in the gloves adds a dragging effect while you're moving your hands through the water.
This forces your upper body to work much more intensely in both pulling and pushing motions, helping to strengthen and tone your muscles faster. The stronger your muscles become, the smoother your technique and movements in the water will be.
Endurance and Cardio
Along with strengthening muscles, training with gloves also provides you with a more intense aerobic workout. Swimming is already a great cardio workout, and with gloves, your heart will be pumping faster and harder because your entire body has to push against the extra resistance.
If you're a competitive swimmer, this is going to be extremely helpful and make swimming without the gloves a piece of cake.
Increased Propulsion
This is especially beneficial if you do water aerobics, snorkeling or scuba diving. Since swimming gloves increase the surface area of your hands, your pushing more water with each stroke and this helps to propel your further than you would with just bare hands. So you’ll be able to cover more distance in a much shorter amount of time.
They Keep You Warm
This is especially true in natural, open water or during the winter months. Swimming the ocean is wonderful and freeing, but it can be quite cold. This is can be distracting and cause your form and technique to suffer. Choosing gloves that are closed fingered will be the best option for situations like these.
Product Review
#1st Rated
Under $10: TAGVO Aquatic Gloves
If you’re just starting out or trying swimming gloves for the first time, these gloves are a great option if you want to strengthen and tone your muscles, and do so economically.
They're made from very comfortable neoprene material and have adjustable closures on the wrists to ensure optimum fit and comfort while training. Although they're extremely comfortable, they're also a stiffer option which gives you more resistance to increased performance. You'll be able to move much faster and smoother through the water while getting a great upper body workout.
Don’t let the price fool you with these gloves. They're sewn together with water-resistant thread that allows staying perfectly intact through many uses. They're also made to easily slip on and off for quick changing. These gloves are ideal for everything from aquatic fitness, surfing, bodyboarding, diving, and general recreational swimming.
If for any reason are you aren’t satisfied or finding these gloves to be beneficial, Tagvo offers you a 100% money back guarantee within 30-days.
#2nd Rated
Between $10 & $25: Speedo Aqua Fit
Founded in 1914, Speedo is one of the most well-known and trusted brands when it comes to aquatic wear and equipment. So it’s no surprise that they’re at the top of the list when it comes to swimming gloves.
These gloves are made from high-quality neoprene material and flexible finger webbing that allows for an efficient resistance workout for muscle and aerobic strengthening. You'll be able to comfortably move and adjust your finger width in and out of the water with more flexible webbing.
These are very soft, comfortable and easy to put on and take off. They also feature useful rubber palms allow you to easily grip other exercise equipment your maybe using and the adjustable wrist closures keep the gloves secure and allow for a custom fit.
In addition to providing a more effective and challenging workout and swim, the compression of these swimming gloves provides support to the hands to protect them from cramps and soreness during and after training sessions. The gentle compression also helps to keep your movements smooth and controlled.
#3rd Rated
Over $25 : DarkFin Webbed Power
If you’re ready to get really serious about your swim training and want to invest in a great pair of swimming gloves, DarkFin’s Webbed Power gloves are an excellent choice. When compared to swimming and diving with just bare hands alone, these gloves will greatly increase your paddling speed and propulsion by increasing your hand’s surface area by 70 percent.
The comfort and flexibility are unmatched. These gloves are ultra-thin and made to feel like a second skin. They’re extremely flexible, allowing you to easily pick up small things, press buttons, adjust clothing, etc., while a cotton flock outer layer gives you a non-slip grip. The fingers are fully covered making them a great for keeping your hands warm during longer sessions or swimming in cold water.
They are meant to fit tight but aren't too difficult to put on or take off, they also come in a variety of sizes so you're sure to find a perfect fit. Another great thing about these swim gloves is that they are 100% biodegradable and made from plant-based latex material.
So they’re perfect if you’re vegan or environmentally conscience. Furthermore, the material is non-absorbent which prevents them from soaking up water and making them heavy.
These gloves are a favorite of champion swimmers, scuba divers, surfers, and military divers, so you know they're of the highest quality and perform well.
Conclusion
Regardless of whether you're working out, training for a competition or just want to improve your swimming experience, swimming gloves can be a great addition to your routine. Not only will they help make your movements more comfortable and smoother, but they'll also help you to build muscle and get in a little more cardio.
Depending on your needs and goals, there are different types of gloves to choose from. Some will be more flexible, while others are stiffer. You also need to decide if you want open fingered gloves or closed ones for more insulation and warmth while swimming.
If you’re ready to take your time in the water to the next level, consider trying out one other great options we’ve selected. They’re excellent quality and there’s one for any price range or experience level. Once you’ve experienced the amazing benefits that come with wearing swimming gloves, you’ll never want to train or swim without them again.
Top Pontoon Boat Tips, Tricks, and More
Pontoon boats are versatile and great for both leisure and entertainment. Whether you are into water sports like skiing, or just want to hang out with the family, a pontoon boat is there to suit your needs.
Pontoon Boat Handling
You’ve got a new boat and you are ready to get onto the water. We get that. Let’s go over the basics to help make your first outing on your pontoon boat a success. Then, you’ll be ready for the water.
Launching Your Pontoon Boat
Lots of practice and proper preparation are the keys to launching your pontoon boat alone. You can practice in your driveway, the street, or in an empty parking lot.
Before you launch your boat into the water, be sure to disconnect outlets and light bulb plugs, stow equipment inside the boat, check the drain plug, and gather mooring lines and fenders.
Now, you're ready to start launching your boat.
Approaching the launch ramp can be tricky without someone to guide you. But that is what you practiced for in the previous step.
Line your vehicle and pontoon trailer as straight as you can and stop once there is about a trailer’s length to go.
To get close to the water’s edge, you will need to drive slowly and adjust in small increments.
Apply the brake and park once the water reaches just above the trailer wheels. Now, you will want to unhook safety chains and straps before securing the anchor rope.
With an extra line available and secure hold of the rope, pass the rope through the driver's window.
Back your vehicle up, loosening the rope as you go, and time the brake just right to give momentum to the pontoon.
Securely tie the rope to the dock to keep the boat in place while you go back and park your vehicle.
Driving Your Pontoon Boat
Once you and your passengers are properly outfitted with personal floatation devices (PFD), you will want to ensure that your fuel tank is full, and your radio is operational.
If you use your phone for communication back at shore, make sure that it has a full charge to its battery. Secure loose and heavy equipment on the boat deck to avoid injury.
Now that you have followed safety measures, it is time to start your pontoon boat. Turn the ignition or motor to the “on” position and wait about 1-5 minutes for the engine to warm up.
Once you are ready to take off, trim the pontoon motor so that the boat is sitting in the water at a shallow level. Next, untie the ropes that are connecting the boat to the dock. Once everyone is seated, you are ready for takeoff.
As you take off, remember to use small throttle bursts and reverse slowly. Like driving a car, pointing the boat towards the direction you want to go will guide you that way.
Once free from the launching dock and headed the correct way, shift into “forward” mode and gently push on the throttle.
First Time on the Water
Pontoon boats are versatile and great as a first boat. While it is an investment, you can choose a boat that is built for power or one that is great for all activities. Tubing, fishing, or just relaxing will make your time on a pontoon boat marvelous.
Pontoon Boat on Rough Water
Pontoons handle themselves well on choppy water. However, tipping over can still happen. One way to prevent flipping is to make sure that your cargo load’s weight is dispersed evenly.
Adjust your course if you’re heading into rough water and cruise at a 30-45-degree angle to the waves. Always keep an eye out on the weather and prioritize safety.
Docking a Pontoon Boat
Practice, practice, practice. Like most things in life, if you want to succeed, you will need to practice. Observing someone more experienced can also help you learn.
Momentum and speed are things you should not confuse. You need momentum to dock, but not much speed – especially if it is windy, with strong currents.
You want to gently shift into position and not fight the wind or currents. If you are struggling, you can always enlist the assistance of a crew member or get professional lessons.
Loading a Pontoon Boat
Once your boat is docked, you will need to retrieve your vehicle.
Pro tip: Always keep your car keys in your pocket to avoid losing them.
Back your trailer into the water until about two-thirds of it is underwater. Untie your boat and pull it to the trailer, aligning it with the trailer as you go. Snap the winch line on the bow and the crank the winch to move the boat onto the trailer.
As quick as you can, get to your vehicle and pull the boat up further by driving into the parking lot. Remove the drain plug and put the tie-downs on your boat. Remember to rinse your boat before leaving.
Pontoon Trailering
We will move onto trailering your boat, which can be tricky for some. Limiting the risk of damaging your boat is a priority, as repairs can be costly.
How to Trailer a Pontoon Boat
There are lots of tips available to help you trailer your boat. You can also get a trailer with guide rails to assist further.
Scissor Trailer
These trailers are designed for pontoon boats, making them easier to use. Scissor trailers work better in shallow waters.
Shallow Trailer
You do not want to submerge your rear tires on your vehicle as wet tires will create a slick surface. You will lose traction.
Instead, make sure that your trailer is set into the water deep enough that the boat will float onto it, not hover above it.
Enjoying Your Pontoon Boat
There are so many activities that you can do on your new boat. Here are some fun ideas to get you started.
Entertaining
With ample seating and plenty of room to move around, these boats are suitable for dining and other boat parties. Finger foods and sandwiches are perfect, since you can prepare these ahead of time. Or, store them separately and assemble when ready.
Fishing
We know – there are some downsides to fishing in a pontoon boat. However, there are some wonderful advantages that you should be aware of before scoffing.
You will have plenty of room to fish in comfort along with friends. The stability of the boat means that kids can safely fish. On top of fishing with friends and family, you can purchase fishing accessories for your boat.
These boats are best for fishing in less choppy freshwater environments during calm, sunny days. It is great for a relaxing day of fishing.
How to Pull a Tube Behind a Pontoon Boat
Tubing on a pontoon boat is incredibly fun and a great joy for the whole family. A pontoon with a powerful motor is suggested for activities like this, but most will do just fine.
Depending on your boat's power, you can make tubing be a slow, leisurely thing or have the speed to glide your friends along the water. Make sure everyone is wearing their PFD.
Hook a tow rope to the U-Bolts or eyelets at the end of the pontoon. The tow rope or rope designed for tubing will be strong enough to resist snapping.
Tube responsibly. Stay away from other boats and always follow local and state boating laws.
Tubing on a pontoon boat is incredibly fun and a great joy for the whole family. A pontoon with a powerful motor is suggested for activities like this, but most will do just fine.
Depending on your boat's power, you can make tubing be a slow, leisurely thing or have the speed to glide your friends along the water. Make sure everyone is wearing their PFD.
Hook a tow rope to the U-Bolts or eyelets at the end of the pontoon. The tow rope or rope designed for tubing will be strong enough to resist snapping.
Tube responsibly. Stay away from other boats and always follow local and state boating laws.
Maintaining Your Pontoon Boat
With an investment like a pontoon boat, you will want to take proper care of it to increase its lifespan.
How to Clean a Pontoon Boat
Before leaving the parking lot, make sure that you clean any dirt off of your boat. You do not want flying river debris to hit other vehicles on the road.
Use mold and mildew stain removers to clean the boat seats and other fabrics. Do this after each adventure.
There are multipurpose cleaners that can clean the boat deck, hardwood floors, metal, brick, marble, and many other surfaces. Cleaners for the stainless-steel ladders, cup holders, and other areas will help reduce build-up on them.
How to Store a Pontoon Boat
Before dry-docking, it is recommended to winterize your boat. You will need to thoroughly clean the boat inside and out, applying for protection against mildew and rust.
Remove all accessories to prevent a build-up of moisture. Once your boat is completely dried, shrink-wrap and cover the boat to lock out moisture and prevent sagging from ice or snow accumulation.
For the outside of the boat, treat for rodents and insects. Change and replace oil filters as well as fill up the gas tank and engine coolant.
Winterizing your boat is essential to keep it in optimum shape for the next warm season.
To sum up, a pontoon boat is a worthwhile investment that will make the hot summer months much more enjoyable for the whole family. You can throw parties, fish, or simply have small dining. In short, you all can get together, all on the same boat, with maximum comfort.
Best One Man Pontoon Boats for 2019
If you are planning to go on a fishing trip this summer, then finding a one-man pontoon boat would be useful. Pontoon boats are one of the best boats for lakes and can help you reach areas of the water that you could not normally reach with normal, heavier boats. They add an extra level of enjoyment to your fishing experience and help you escape the bigger crowds of people in favor of more remote fishing locations.
One man pontoon boats have a much higher level of maneuverability than larger boats and usually come with a wide capacity of storage space. They tend to also be less expensive than many other boats available on the market. In this guide, we’ll show you some of the best benefits of investing in a one-man pontoon boat, as well as some recommended brands.
Benefits of a One Man Pontoon Boat
Armed with this list of benefits, weigh your options on which pontoon boat you would like to purchase for your fishing trip. The best ones will normally include these quality features and so much more. They are more versatile than larger boats and may even offer some different qualities that larger boats may not even have.
Maneuverability
One man pontoon boats are perfect for maneuvering in most types of water, even in some of the shallowest levels of water. The smaller the boat, the easier it tends to maneuver. If you want to be able to move around as easily as possible, then a one man pontoon boat will definitely benefit you.
The level of maneuverability that pontoon boats offer is also perfect for beginners. Larger boats are harder to steer and they are not able to travel to some of the more closed off locations that pontoons are able to reach.
Pontoons can be a good starting point when teaching someone how to steer a boat so that they may one day be able to steer a larger boat if they desire.
Price
One man pontoon boats are often much more affordable than regular large boats. With all of the areas of water you can travel in a pontoon boat and how easy it is to move in water, the price is often worth it.
Search for the most affordable pontoon boat to fit your budget while also taking advantage of all of the features.
Storage
One man pontoons have a wide variety of storage spaces and it can be stored away easier than regular boats. The pontoon boat that you purchase will need to accommodate all of the equipment you bring along on your fishing trip.
Most pontoon boats normally include 20 storage pockets and 2 insulated cup holders so you will be able to easily store your items wherever you want.
As for storing the pontoon, they will be able to fit inside of garage space or on a backyard dock since they are smaller.
You will not have to worry about where to store them as much as you would with a regular sized boat. This eliminates the frustration of trying to find a bigger place to store your boat.
Durability
Most pontoons are built with some of the sturdiest material to prevent them from breaking or wearing down. Durability is an essential feature of any pontoon if you want to maneuver easily on any water surface without worrying about your boat getting ruined in the middle of sailing.
The denser the fabric that the pontoon boat is made out of, the better.
Product Reviews
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The Classic Accessories Colorado Inflatable Pontoon Boat offers huge storage capacity with more than 20 pockets and two insulated drink holders for maximum convenience.
It weighs 71.5 lbs with a 400-pound capacity, perfect for holding you and your equipment. It is made with abrasion-resistant PVC bottoms and tough nylon tops to allow you to explore even the shallowest waters.
The non-slip footrests and bronze oarlocks will be able to keep the two-piece aluminum oars in place while you continue to sail smoothly. The seat and the footrests also adjust for maximum leg comfort. For extra comfort, this pontoon is built with padded fold-down plastic seats.
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4.5 of 5 Stars
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The Sea Eagle 285 Inflatable Frameless Fishing Pontoon Boat is portable, lightweight, spacious, and can become compact to store inside a bag and other small places.
This fishing pontoon raft weighs 42 pounds with a loading capacity of 450 lbs and has an engine capacity of 3hp (45 lbs. max) or 55 lb. thrust (min 30" shaft). It is made of reinforced 1000 Denier, with quadruple overlapping superior glued seams.
This pontoon is perfect for almost any type of water and lack frames for easy folding and storage purposes. This pontoon will allow you to travel to different levels of shallow waters that most heavier boats will not be able to access so you can find the perfect fishing spot.
You also have the option of customizing it to your heart’s content since it lacks frames and is built with universal Scotty Mounts.
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4.3 of 5 Stars
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The Classic Accessories Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat has flexible storage options built for your convenience. The boat weighs 68 lb with a 400 lb holding capacity. Built with abrasion-resistant PVC bottoms, tough nylon tops, and a powder-coated steel tube frames, it also comes with two 7' aluminum oars.
This pontoon boat has 20 pockets, two insulated drinks holders, and comes with its own removable gear bag for your own customizable storage. You can adjust the seat and footrests in order to enjoy wider space for your legs. The non-slip footrest allows you to rest your legs while preventing you from falling out of the boat.
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4.4 of 5 Stars
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The Classic Accessories Colorado XTS Inflatable Fishing Pontoon Boat is an 80 lb boat with a huge amount of storing capacity and removable side pockets that combine into a portable gear bag. Its high level of durability comes from being built with abrasion-resistant PVC bottoms and rugged nylon tops. It comes with a transport wheel that will help you get to your favorite fishing spot.
The padded swivel seat that is built into the boat provides you with an extra level of mobility and comfort while you are out on the water. It has a weight capacity of 400 lbs to hold you and your gear sufficiently. This pontoon boat is built to the American Boat and Yacht Council standards.
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4.2 of 5 Stars
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The DAMA Fishing Inflatable Rafts Pontoon Tube Boat is built with a detachable seat and awning canopy. The heavy-duty pontoons are built with abrasion-resistant PVC bottoms and rugged nylon tops. It has a weight capacity of up to 380 lbs and has an anchor system with a fillable mesh bag.
The hydrodynamic hull is shaped for superior tracking and steering and it comes with 2 aluminum oar paddles to help you sail wherever you need to. There is also a repair kit included in the case of an emergency.
Having a repair kit on board your pontoon boat eliminates the concern of being stranded in the water if an important part of your boat suddenly breaks or starts wearing thin.
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5 of 5 Stars
Conclusion
With all of this information in mind, consider which one man pontoon boat would work best for your needs. There are many options to choose from, so pay attention to all of the advantages that any pontoon boat has to offer before you make your final decision so you can get the best value out of it. Improve the quality of your fishing trip by investing in a one man pontoon boat that will allow you to travel in areas you would not be able to reach otherwise.
