Launch Day Checklist (Printable)

Staging, backing down, launching, retrieving and the checks before you leave the ramp, in the order you do them.

Not a survey. This checklist is a memory aid, not a marine survey and not a substitute for practice or for the ramp’s posted rules. Follow local rules on cleaning and draining.

Before your first launch

Practiced backing the trailer in an empty parking lot
Hand signals agreed with your helper: stop, left, start over, perfect
Guide poles on the trailer (beginners)
Picked a quiet time for the first try

Arrive and scout

Paid any launch fee on arrival
Walked the ramp: steepness, water depth, dock condition
Decided where to park the vehicle and trailer
Everything ready before getting in line

Staging area

Drain plug in; key in the ignition
Battery check: bumped the key to start for a moment (do not run the engine on the trailer)
Gear loaded
Fenders out on the dock side; transom tie-down straps off
Dock lines on the bow and stern cleats
Trailer lights unplugged from the vehicle
Vehicle lined up to back straight down

Backing down and launching

Slow, using the brake, not the gas
Spotter visible in the left-hand mirror
Backed until the stern starts to float
Vehicle in park; parking brake set
Safety chain off the bow eye; winch released; strap unclipped (shoes that can get wet)
Bow (and stern) line to the helper; boat floated off and walked clear
Or, with someone aboard: engine started before the bow eye is released
Vehicle and trailer moved to parking right away

Retrieving

Watched ramp traffic and went with the flow
Driver dropped at the dock, or boat tied up while the trailer comes down
Crew briefed on their jobs before backing down
Winch strap and safety chain on the bow eye
Pulled out to a staging area

Before you leave the ramp

Clean, drain, dry: weeds and growth off boat and trailer; bait and live wells per local rules Clean boating
Hitch secure; tie-downs and transom straps tight
Trailer lights plugged in and working; tires checked
Loose items removed
Driver sober and well rested

Back home

Trailer wheels chocked before unhitching
Wet gear out of storage compartments
Trash and food removed
Bow raised with the trailer jack so rainwater drains toward the pump or plug