[Plains Puddlerunner]

I just purchased my first (new to me) pontoon boat. 28 foot tritoon. I would like some advice on what not to do with my pontoon. I have had several 15-18 runabouts but never a behemoth like this. Any help would be great especially when it comes to launching from the trailer. THANKS!!!!

[DJ]

Puddleruner,Don't let the size scare you. They're really not that heavy, just bulky. A Tritoon-eh? Nice rig.One thing to be very cautious of is: WIND. The flat high sides of these act like sails. If the wind gets really high, head for shelter and NEVER put the bow into a high wind. The wind can lift it.

[jollymon]

Good luck with your new boat. I have had mine for about 2 months now (25' pontoon. What not to do!Keep it slow in wakes or chop, it does not take much to bury the bow, Boat comes right back up but EVERY thing get wet. I have had mine out in 2-3' chop with out any problems. As far as trailering, it just takes a little getting use to, it makes for a long rig. When I launch, I back mine in about 1/2 to 2/3 of the way in the water making sure my trailer wheels do not leave the ramp. If I have to I use the motor to pull me off the trailer. Off is much easier than on. I do not know if your trailer has Guides, mine had 2 I added 2 more. (Load Rite trailer, I bought the extras from them $75?) When I back the trailer into load, I make sure the tops of the back guides are above the water, pull on nice and slow. Once it is line up and on, I just power up to glide the rest of the way onto the trailer. If it willnot go, then I back the trailer down, again making sure that the wheels of the trailer NEVER leave the ramp.

[Down South]

What not to do with a pontoon boat. First thing is to make sure you don't leave the lake without having a great time. I have two pontoon boats both are 24 ft. It sounds like you have a great boat. I always wanted one a little larger. It's easy for me to have at least a dozen riders. Anyway, one thing to remember. The pontoons are tender. They can be bent easily. Try to keep away from tree stumps logs, ect. It would be wise to invest in several of the foam filled bumpers that can be hung over the side for when you are docked. This will help to keep other boats from bumping into it or the pontoon boat from banging up against the pier. Make sure your pontoon boat is on the trailer right before pulling it out of the water. I've seen pontoons bent before from not having the boat square on the trailer when it was pulled out of the water. Good guides on the trailer will usually take care of this but I always check mine the whole time I'm loading it.While under way, keep all the gates closed and locked especially if children are on board.Other that that I really can't think of much.Good luck and have a great time