Saltwater fishing

[cobraman]

have a question for you, I just bought a 95 Larson 174 SEI boat. Never owned one before, It has primarily been used only for freshwater by previous owner. I live in TX and been wanting to take it down to the Saltwater for some fishing. Like Port Isabel, South Padre, etc. My question is, Can I take the boat into Salt water, is there any preparation that needs to be done first??? I am sort of naive when it comes to boating. <br />It has an Inboard Volvo 3.0 Liter engine with a Volvo Penta drive. Mainly a ski boat for the freshwater lakes nearby in New Mexico.<br />Appreciate feedback.

 

[mattttt25]

Re: Saltwater fishing

your boat will operate fine in salt water. be sure to flush the engine and clean the inside and outside of the boat well when you are done. of course, it's a small boat to take offshore, but you'll be the judge of that. good luck-

 

[jamessloan]

Re: Saltwater fishing

Your boat should be fine in the salt. Engine flushing is a must, have the flushing gear ready before you go. Another suggestion would be to give the boat a good coat of wax before setting out. This would include the exposed metal parts as well. Cleanup will be a breeze and the wax should inhibit corrosion on metal surfaces. Remember that dried salt spray will scratch your plexiglass if not rinsed well before wiping.

 

[neumanns]

Re: Saltwater fishing

In your preperation list add map of waters and respect the chanel markers or you will find oyster beds can do a lot of damage. also watch out for plugging water intake it is real easy to plug one up until you know the waters.<br /><br />Buy your bait in Port Isabel at the the bridge (Not Causway)on the right hand side. I think its called Quick Stop, best in town. Good place to launch is the searanch marina Good acess to Intercostal with fewer hazards for someone that doesnt yet know the waters. If it was my first run in the area and wanted some fish hit the intercoastal run north 6-8 miles and fish the channel by the spoil banks, good for red and trout.<br /><br />Man I gotta go before I start Crying,...Good waters though. Good luck.

 

[vwall]

Re: Saltwater fishing

You may also want to check to see what type of propeller in on the motor. As if it wsas a fresh water boat it will likely rust rather quickly.<br />You may need to upgrade to a salt water propeller.<br /><br />Also, if the trailer isnt galvenized and you keep your boat near the Gulf, Plan on it rusting rapidily.<br /><br />Another note as well, if you keep the boat near the Gulf, you will eventually have rapid electronic corrosion from the salty air etc as well..<br /><br />Just a few tips.. hope they help..