what time of the year do you guys start getting the boat ready ?

[bassnblues]

I will get it professionally sand blasted and then start over.

Does sandblasting completely remove the paint?

[IrishAyes]

After about 4 seasons, I will get it professionally sand blasted and then start over. 

Nick, that is why I use the ablative paint.  It comes off as you are running to keep the bottom clean.  Thus, no big paint build up over the years.  I have been told that it would last a couple of years, but I paint every year anyway. 

Some people who use the ablative will put two coats on, different colors.  When you can see thru the top color you know it is time to re-paint.  I just paint every year and that works for me.   

[eagleyankfan]

no you have me thinking.  It's been awhile since it was last painted.  The last 2 years it was trailered.  Maybe I should have it done by the pro's one more time.

[Luna Sea 5]

as long as its outlined, no need for a pro to do it..

[Luna Sea 5]

After about 4 seasons, I will get it professionally sand blasted and then start over. 

Nick, that is why I use the ablative paint.  It comes off as you are running to keep the bottom clean.  Thus, no big paint build up over the years.  I have been told that it would last a couple of years, but I paint every year anyway. 

Some people who use the ablative will put two coats on, different colors.  When you can see thru the top color you know it is time to re-paint.  I just paint every year and that works for me.   

[miller-time]

We want to start by early April to have the boat ready by early May. This year we would like to chase some drum in the Delaware Bay. They start in mid-May.

[Luna Sea 5]

I will get it professionally sand blasted and then start over.

Does sandblasting completely remove the paint?

yes..

[SouthPaw]

Bottom painting on the trailer can be very messy. I rolled my boat off the trailer and onto blocks before painting. Way too many rollers in the way. Plus didn't want the trailer looking like it got bottom painted also.

[Luna Sea 5]

I was able to do mine just fine.. Just have to have a large 5 ton jack to make life easier...  There is no way in hell I will be able to roll my boat off the trailer onto block... 1 slip and your screwed big time..

[fishin mission]

What kind of paint do most guys use for trim tabs?  I have never painted mine before and want to start.

[IrishAyes]

I have been using the same paint that I use for the bottom.  Fourteen years now, and no problems.   

[Luna Sea 5]

they sell a transducer spray paint for the Tabs.. works great.

[rugman]

  ;Dthree pages and the rugman started this

[Luna Sea 5]

and it will get more action when the weather breaks..