Welcome to the ultimate lake life checklist.
There’s nothing quite like summertime in Montana.
The snow finally melts off the mountains, wildflowers start popping up like confetti, and the lakes—oh, the lakes—turn into shimmering playgrounds for all of us who live for lake life. If you’ve ever experienced a Montana summer, you know the joy of that first boat ride: sun on your face, wind in your hair, and the smell of sunscreen and lake water mixing in the air.
But before you launch your boat and hit the throttle, there’s a little prep work to do. After all, the best summers start with a little behind-the-scenes effort. Whether you’re a first-time boat owner or a seasoned skipper, this guide walks you through 10 essential steps to get your boat—and yourself—ready for a legendary summer on the water.
1. Give Your Boat a Full Spring Checkup
Think of your boat like your summer muscle car—sleek, powerful, and in need of TLC after a long winter nap.
Start with the essentials:
- Check the battery. Charge it or replace it if it’s dead.
- Inspect fluid levels—especially oil, coolant, and steering fluid.
- Examine the belts, hoses, and clamps for wear.
- Make sure your lights, horn, and bilge pump are functioning.
Pro tip: If you’re not super confident in doing this yourself, swing by a trusted marine service shop. A certified checkup can catch small issues before they become expensive problems mid-season.
2. Inspect the Hull and Propeller
Over time, even the toughest boats can take a few dings. Give the hull a once-over for cracks, blisters, or any signs of damage.
For the propeller:
- Look for nicks or bent blades.
- Make sure it’s securely fastened.
- Grease the fittings if needed.
A damaged prop might not seem like a big deal, but it can cause your boat to vibrate weirdly—or worse, burn through fuel like a college kid at a pizza buffet.
3. Clean Your Boat Like You Mean It
A clean boat isn’t just about looks—it’s about performance and longevity.
- Wash off any grime, mildew, or leftover lake gunk from last season.
- Wax the exterior to protect from UV rays.
- Scrub the interior—especially any vinyl seating or flooring.
Pro tip: If you’ve got AquaTraction or Seadek padding, use a soft-bristle brush and marine-safe cleaner to keep it looking fresh.
4. Restock Safety Gear
Before you bring the fun, make sure you’ve got the must-haves for safety:
- U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for every ride
- A throwable flotation device
- Fire extinguisher
- Air horn or whistle
- First-aid kit
- Navigation lights
Montana lakes are a paradise—but weather can change fast. Being prepared is part of being a smart captain.
5. Update Your Registration and Paperwork
This one’s not glamorous, but it’s non-negotiable.
Double-check that your:
- Boat registration is current
- Insurance covers the new season
- Any permits required for local lakes are up to date
No one wants to get pulled over on the lake—especially when it’s preventable.
6. Get Your Wakeboards, Surfboards, and Life Jackets Ready
This is the fun part. Dig into your gear closet and:
- Check your wakeboards, surfboards, and ropes for wear
- Inspect bindings, traction pads, and fins
- Replace any damaged life vests
If your gear’s looking rough—or you’re ready to level up—check out our latest summer boards and water gear here. We’ve got everything you need to shred, cruise, and chill.
7. Plan Your Lake Days in Advance
Montana lakes can fill up fast during prime summer weekends. Now’s the time to:
- Book boat launches or marina slips if needed
- Find campgrounds or lakefront lodging near your favorite spots
- Coordinate weekends with your lake crew
Want insider tips? Some of our favorite hidden gems include Flathead Lake, Canyon Ferry, and the ever-iconic Whitefish. Each one offers a different kind of magic.
8. Prep Your Trailer and Tow Vehicle
Your trailer needs love too. Before hitching up:
- Check the tires for wear and proper inflation
- Grease the wheel bearings
- Test brake lights and turn signals
- Inspect your winch and straps
Also, make sure your truck or SUV is ready to tow. There’s nothing worse than a road trip fail when your summer is just kicking off.
9. Load the Fun: Coolers, Speakers & Vibes
This is where Montana Summer really kicks in.
Stock your cooler with:
- Water, sports drinks, and a few celebratory cold ones
- Snacks (think fruit, chips, and sandwiches)
- Ice, and then more ice
And don’t forget:
- Bluetooth speakers
- Dry bags for phones and keys
- Towels, sunscreen, and your best summer playlist
Vibe tip: Start your day with mellow acoustic, build to reggae or surf rock mid-day, and end with party classics as the sun sets.
10. Make it About More Than Just the Boat
Yes, we love our boats. But lake life in Montana is about more than horsepower—it’s about memories.
- Teach a kid how to wakesurf.
- Have lunch floating in a cove with your family.
- Watch the stars from the middle of the lake.
- Snap photos and turn them into stories.
Every ride is a new chapter in your summer story. The more you put into it, the more you get back.
Ready to Ride? Let’s Make This Summer Legendary
Montana only gets a few short months of true summer. Don’t waste a single second of it.
Whether you’re launching your boat for the first time or chasing glassy morning water every weekend, following these 10 steps will set you up for a smooth, unforgettable season.
So what’s your go-to Montana lake? Got any must-have boating tips we missed?
Drop a comment below or tag us in your lake adventures — we’d love to see how you do summer.
#MontanaSummer #LakeLife #BoatingSeasonReady