I have a 2002 Kenner center console. I am a boat newbie. Bought it used. I have taken it to freshwater lakes andrun it about 6 times so I think I have a good feel to it. My question is, what do I do before and after I take the boat to the coast? I am itching to fish for reds and trout. I know I have to run freshwater through the motor (Mercury Saltwater 90HP), are there any other tips or requirements?

The first thing I do after leaving the ramp is go directly to a car wash and completely rinse the boat AND trailer with fresh water, even if I will be back on the water the next day.

Before Saltwater Use:
1.Fluid film all electrical connection, exposed stainless steel/metal in boat, light mist the motor under cowling.

After I am done fishing:
1. Pull all drain plugs
2. Fill tank full of gas with Stabilizer


After at home or car wash: (I carry a spray bottle of vinegar and Clorox bleach gel and my rabbit ears to flush motor since I use the car wash.)

1. Spray motor down with vinegar let it soak. Use the Clorox on hatches, blood/gut or any tough stain let it soak.
2. Pressure wash trailer very well, wet boat and scrub brush hull inside and out then motor, rinse
3. Hook up rabbit ears and flush motor 5 minutes.
4. Use water hose to force water through recirculating system for live wells as a flush same thing for bilge pumps if they were used.

When you get home:
1. Open all deck hatches/access holes, remove gear, keep hatches access holes open.
2. Remove and inspect prop, inspect drive shaft, clean away old grease, re-lube, reinstall prop.
3. Put batteries on the maintainer.
4. Clean ice chest and allow to dry.
5. Use fluid film where I think extra protection is needed.
6. Store inside or cover.
7. Turn on oscillating fan to promote air flow and faster drying times


Next day:
1. Inspect the whole rig, looking for any missed spots or sign of corrosion. Clean and fluid film if needed.


Every three months: Pulled the steering arm link, clean the tube and arm then re-lube. Follow manufacturer of steering components recommendation.

Thanks a bunch for the info!!!!!!

anything with a wire on it is vulnerable.. pumps so on. fuse block,, any connection...What is the trailer made of? Most of the boat will be ok with a good rinse. If anything is not aluminum or stainless and you miss it ,you will know it later,, What you might consider is dunking the trailer in a fresh water lake for a few minutes,, spraying from outside is good but will probably leave some salt in the hidden places.. Death for a painted trailer.. salt is the debil..

and if you are just curious about some of those fresh water lures from walmart catching salt water fish, better rinse those too.. or next time you open the tackle box it will be a rusted mess..rods, reels ,, rinse everything.. spent 30 years on the coast.. lots of boats and fishing.. Moved to the hill country, bought a pontoon. Wife asked about going to the coast, told her that boat and trailer would never see the salt.