Winter Boating Tips
There’s lots to be said for Winter Boating! With fewer boats on the water, the chance to spot some whales and fish still biting, it’s a great time of year to spend time on the water!
Not convinced? Here are 3 reasons for you to go boating this Winter:
- Fewer boats on the water
Most people park up their boats over winter, bringing them out again when the weather warms up. With more boat owners on the water over Summer than ever, the cooler months mean fewer people vying for a spot on the boat ramp and less water traffic to contend with while you're out cruising!
You can enjoy stopping in quiet bays or explore local rivers to soak up the winter sunshine, unperturbed by the wash from other boats passing by, or go about uninterrupted in your favourite fishing spot.
- Whale Season
Winter is a great time to spot marine life. Between May and July, an estimated 30,000 humpback whales will migrate up the east coast of Australia, retreating from the chilly waters of Antarctica to the warmer Queensland temps. From September to November they make their annual migration south again, this time with calves in tow. With whales moving through popular beaches and bays right up the NSW coast, boaties willing to brave the winter chill can get the show of a lifetime.
- Winter Fishing
While you may need to rug up and adjust your approach, winter can be a great time to go fishing from Ulladulla to the Central Coast! With schools of Taylor, Snapper, Trevally, Bream and of course Australian Salmon, the cool clear winter waters can be a winter wonderland for anglers. Although it can be chilly out on the water, the middle months of the year can actually present calmer and more predictable weather so it’s well worth planning a fishing trip – you’ll have less competition for your favourite fishing spot too.
Tips on boating during winter
It's important to remember that the conditions you encounter over Winter may be more challenging than during Summer. Even if the forecast is for fine weather, you should take all the necessary precautions before heading out for a day on the water as conditions can change quickly.
Check your safety gear, ensure your boat is serviced regularly, and keep on top of testing and changing engine oil as engine fluids can thicken in cold weather. On colder days, carry an extra change of clothes in case you get wet & keep a thermos of hot tea or soup on hand to warm you up if the chill starts to get to you.
For more advice on boating over winter or to request a service to make sure your vessel is ready for winter waters, get in touch with our team at Hunts Marine today!
