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There's nothing worse than finally getting a good weather window, loading up the boat, and then spending the morning dealing with problems that should have been sorted weeks ago. Flat battery. Dodgy trailer lights. Pump that won't prime. We've all been there.

With snapper season kicking off, now's the time to go through your gear properly. Spend a few hours this weekend and you'll be ready to go whenever the conditions line up.

Here's our complete checklist for getting your boat fishing-ready.

1. Safety Gear — The Non-Negotiables

Before you even think about fishing gear, sort your safety equipment. This isn't optional, and Maritime NZ doesn't care that you were "just ducking out for a quick fish."

Life Jackets
- One for every person on board (minimum)
- Check the expiry date — yes, they expire
- Inspect for damage, test the buckles and straps
- Make sure they're accessible, not buried under gear

Flares
- Check the expiry date (they're usually good for 3 years)
- You need a minimum of two flares for inshore, more for offshore
- Keep them in a waterproof container

VHF Radio
- Test it before the season
- Make sure your MMSI is registered with Maritime NZ
- Check the battery if it's a handheld
- Know how to use it — Channel 16 for emergencies

Other Essentials
- First aid kit (check contents and expiry dates)
- Torch with fresh batteries
- Bucket and bailer
- Anchor and rode in good condition
- EPIRB if you're heading offshore (registered and in-date)

Nobody plans to have an emergency. But if you do, this gear is the difference between a bad day and a tragedy.

2. Battery and Electrical Systems

Electrical problems account for more aborted fishing trips than almost anything else. Don't let a flat battery ruin your weekend.

Starting Battery
- Load test it, don't just check the voltage
- Clean the terminals — corrosion creates resistance
- Check the connections are tight
- If it's more than 3-4 years old, consider replacing it now rather than getting stranded later

House Battery (if fitted)
- Same checks as above
- Make sure the isolator switch is working
- Check the charging system is actually charging both batteries

Bilge Pump
- Test it manually and on the float switch
- Check the outlet isn't blocked
- Listen for any grinding or struggling — worn pumps give warning signs before they fail completely

Navigation Lights
- Test all of them — anchor light, nav lights, stern light
- Replace any blown bulbs
- Check the wiring for corrosion, especially at connections

Electronics
- Fire up the fish finder and check it's working
- Update any software if needed
- Check transducer is secure and clean
- Test the GPS and make sure your charts are current

3. Engine and Fuel System

Your outboard has probably been sitting for a few months. Give it some attention before you're relying on it offshore.

Basic Checks
- Check the oil level (4-strokes) or oil reservoir (2-strokes)
- Inspect the fuel lines for cracks or perishing
- Check the fuel filter — replace if it's been a while
- Look for any obvious leaks or damage

Run It Up
- If you've got a flush muffs setup, run the engine for 10-15 minutes
- Let it get up to temperature
- Check the tell-tale is flowing properly (water pump working)
- Listen for any unusual sounds

Fuel
- If fuel has been sitting all winter, consider draining and replacing it
- Stale fuel causes starting problems and can damage injectors
- Check the tank for water contamination
- Make sure the breather is clear

Propeller
- Inspect for dings, chips, and damage
- Check the hub isn't slipping
- Look for fishing line wrapped around the shaft

4. Trailer and Towing

Your trailer does hard work in a harsh environment. Salt water, road grime, UV exposure — it all takes a toll.

Tyres
- Check pressure (including the spare)
- Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear
- Check the age — tyres degrade even if they look fine. Replace if they're more than 5-6 years old
- Make sure the spare is accessible and you have the tools to change it

Wheel Bearings
- This is the big one. Failed bearings strand more boat owners than anything else
- Jack up each wheel and spin it — listen for grinding or roughness
- Check for play by grabbing the wheel top and bottom and rocking it
- If in doubt, repack or replace the bearings. It's cheap insurance

Lights and Wiring
- Test all lights — brake, indicators, running lights, number plate light
- Check the plug and socket for corrosion
- Inspect the wiring for chafe or damage
- Carry spare bulbs and fuses

Winch and Straps
- Check the winch strap or rope for fraying and wear
- Test the winch mechanism — it should ratchet smoothly
- Inspect the hook and safety latch
- Check the bow stop and side guides

Rollers and Bunks
- Look for cracked or missing rollers
- Check bunk carpet for wear
- Make sure everything is aligned and the boat sits properly

5. Fishing Gear

Now for the fun part. But don't skip the basics.

Rods and Reels
- Clean reels thoroughly and lubricate
- Check drags are smooth and holding
- Inspect guides for cracks or grooves
- Test the reel seats and gimbal butts

Line
- Monofilament degrades over time, even if you haven't used it
- If your line has been on the reel for more than a season, replace it
- Check braid for fraying and abrasion
- Re-tie your leader connections

Terminal Tackle
- Go through your tackle box and check hooks are sharp
- Replace any rusty or damaged hooks
- Restock your essential rigs — flasher rigs, ledger rigs, whatever you use
- Check sinker stock

Landing Net
- Inspect the mesh for holes
- Check the handle connection isn't loose
- Make sure it's actually on the boat

Other Gear
- Knife (sharp)
- Pliers and hook remover
- Measuring device (know the legal sizes)
- Catch bag or chilly bin with ice

6. Bait Station and Live Bait Tank

If you're running Striker Marine gear, a quick check now saves problems later.

Live Bait Tank
- Run the pump and check flow rate
- Inspect hoses for cracks or loose connections
- Check the strainer is clear
- Test the LED light if fitted
- Make sure the drain plug seals properly

Bait Station
- Check all fittings are secure
- Inspect the cutting board for deep grooves (can harbour bacteria)
- Make sure rod holders are tight
- Check the drainage is clear

If anything needs attention or you need replacement parts, get in touch. We carry spares for everything we make.

The Bottom Line

Yeah, it's a long list. But most of this is quick visual checks that only take a few minutes each. Set aside a Saturday morning, work through it methodically, and you'll head into the season confident that your gear is sorted.

There's nothing better than being ready to go when the weather comes right. No scrambling, no stressing, no mechanical issues at the ramp. Just good fishing.

Tight lines this season — and if you need any help with your Striker Marine gear, you know where to find us.