How to Get Your Wakeboat Ready for Spring

Winter did its thing—snowed, froze, lingered. But now it's time to thaw out and get back on the water. Whether you're chasing clean surf or just out for a mellow cruise, getting your boat dialed in for the season is the move.

Here’s your updated spring prep checklist to get your wakeboat ready—without the fluff, and with the gear that actually matters.

1. Start with a Deep Clean

• Wash the hull, deck, and non-skid surfaces using a boat-safe soap. Don’t forget the trailer if you’ve got one.
• Scrub vinyl seats and upholstery. Use a marine-grade cleaner to avoid cracking and fading.
• Clean windows, hatches, and windshields.
• Remove cushions and gear and clean underneath. Mold loves dark corners.
• Toss old floor mats and upgrade to DryCOR mats for better drainage and quicker drying between sessions.
• Restock the cooler while you’re at it.

2. Inspect and Replace Wear Items

• Impeller – If you don’t remember replacing it last season, do it now.
• Hoses and clamps – Check for cracks, bulges, or corrosion.
• Battery – Make sure it’s holding a charge. Clean the terminals.
• Spare fuses and tools – Toss a few extras in your onboard stash.
• Propeller - Check your prop for damage. It's easier to change it on land.
• Keep a spare impeller pump and engine flusher on hand in case something fails mid-season.

Pro tip: Add an ACME Weekend Saver Kit to your gear stash. It's not the sexiest purchase but you'll be thankful you have it when you need it.

3. Engine Maintenance

• Change the oil and oil filter.
• Check and replace the fuel filter if needed.
• Inspect spark plugs and replace if fouled or worn.
• Use an engine flusher to run fresh water through the cooling system if you haven’t already.
• Look for any signs of rodents or nesting under the engine cover—yes, seriously.

4. Ballast System Check

• If you're using ballast bags, inspect them for leaks or wear. If they're looking sketchy, swap them out.
• Make sure the pumps are functioning properly. Run them dry briefly to listen for odd noises.
• Check hose connections and clamps.
• Flush the system with fresh water before your first session.

5. Safety + Gear Check

• PFDs – Ditch the moldy or sun-faded ones and replace them with fresh Coast Guard-approved vests.
• Fire extinguishers – Make sure they’re charged and not expired.
• Navigation lights and horn – Quick function test before launch day.
• First aid kit – Top off missing items or just grab a new one.
• Throwable flotation – Should be clean, visible, and accessible.

Also a good time to review your state’s boating safety laws—they change.

6. Docking and Mooring Gear

• Check dock lines and bungee cords for fraying or UV damage.
• Inspect cleats and hardware.
• Upgrade to new dock fenders or bumpers if yours are trashed.

Final Sweep

• Turn everything on. Make sure your stereo, lights, screens, and GPS are working.
• Restock towels, tools, and trash bags.
• Take a photo of your registration and insurance info and keep backups on your phone.

Bottom Line:

Don't rush it. A solid spring prep means more time riding and less time troubleshooting. Check it all now—so the only thing you're worrying about later is if you brought enough snacks.

Click this link for a 👉 Printable Checklist ✅

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our Product Advisors at (888) 338-6085 or send us an email at support@wakemakers.com.