Preparing Your Boat for the Winter in Okoboji

Step-by-Step Guide to Winterizing

Prep and Drain the Engine

• For outboard engines, tilt the motor down to drain residual water. This step alone can prevent freeze damage to the pump and cooling system.
• With inboard and stern drives, find and open drain plugs in the block and at the back of the exhaust. This action helps eliminate trapped water in key parts of the engine. Once you’ve done this a few times, it’ll become second nature.

Handle Fuel Care Properly

• Adding a fuel stabilizer is critical to keep your fuel fresh during storage. Ethanol-blended fuels attract moisture, which can lead to gumming and clogged jets. Stabilizers prevent this and improve springtime performance.
• Drain the fuel from any carburetors or, if your system allows, disconnect the fuel line and run the engine until it stops. Draining prevents buildup and ensures a smooth start in spring.

Fog the Engine for Corrosion Protection

• Fogging your engine can be a lifesaver if you plan to store your boat for more than a few weeks. Simply apply a layer of fogging oil inside the engine to prevent rust and corrosion during downtime. This small step can make a big difference for the engine’s longevity.

Winterize Plumbing and Water Systems

• Any water in systems like sinks, live wells, or holding tanks should be drained and flushed with antifreeze. Even one missed spot can result in a cracked pipe. Using a quality marine-grade antifreeze in all plumbing components is ideal, especially in an area like Okoboji where freezing temperatures are common.
• Don’t forget the drain plugs! Removing them lets any remaining water escape, which can prevent stress fractures in pipes.

Routine Maintenance for Winter Storage

Winterization is also the perfect time to tackle regular maintenance. Whether you store your boat on the water, in a driveway, or at a storage facility, completing these steps helps keep everything in great shape:

• Change the oil and oil filter for smoother operation next season.
• Inspect the gearcase lubricant if you own an outboard or stern drive. Swapping it out now will prevent delays come spring.
• Test the batteries and ensure they’re fully charged before storage.
• Replace fuel filters and inspect spark plugs for any buildup.

Boat Storage Options in Okoboji

Preparing your boat for winter in Okoboji includes keeping your boat shielded from harsh weather. Several quality storage options are available around the Iowa Great Lakes, each with its unique features.

• Parks Marina: Ideal for both long-term storage and winterization, Parks Marina provides full services like fluid changes, detailing, and secure indoor storage. They’ll even pick up your boat right from the dock.
• Mau Marine: Offers premium boat storage with VIP benefits like priority service, dockside cleaning, and on-demand spring delivery. If you’re looking for top-tier storage with perks, Mau Marine has you covered.
• Oak Hill Marina: Known for its maintenance and detailing services, Oak Hill offers a range of packages that include both winterization and indoor storage. They’ll customize options to meet specific storage needs.
• Right Size Storage: Located in Spirit Lake and Milford, Right Size offers ground-level storage units for boats, trailers, and other large vehicles with easy drive-up access.
• Lakes Area Storage: With multiple locations, Lakes Area Storage provides 24-hour access and snow removal from unit doors during winter. For climate-controlled options, their newest facility offers ideal storage for sensitive equipment.
• Ducky’s Marine & Powersports Repair: Specializing in climate-controlled storage, Ducky’s also offers detailing, cleaning, and wrapping services for added protection.