Boat fishing with boats constructed with plastic can be a great experience, as they are robust, lightweight, and, at times, cheaper than other materials. However, like everything, they come with their share of issues. As an owner of a polyethylene (HDPE) fishing boat, or one who is set to become one, knowing the potential issues and how to keep them at bay will have you savoring your experience on the waters as much as you can.
1. Sun Damage and UV Degradation
The Problem:
Fishing boats built with lower grade polyethylene are subject to long-term damage from the sun. They could whiten, become stiff, and possibly crack because of ultraviolet effects.
How to Avoid It:
- Choose UV-stabilized HDPE: UV-inhibited high-density polyethylene boats are far less prone to sun damage than clear-coated plastic.
- Use a Boat Cover: When you are not utilizing your boat, cover your boat or keep it in the shade.
- Use Protective Wax: A boat-specific UV protectant can increase the longevity of your boat.
2. Scratches and Impact Damage
The Issue:
Though plastic boats are durable, they are not unbreakable. Rocks, docks, and sharp edges could scratch, gouge, or actually poke holes in.
How to Stop It:
- Don’t Drag on Hard Ground: Use a cart or lift to pull your boat on dry land.
- Strengthen High-Wear Spots: A few of the HDPE boats have reinforced keels or added thickness where collisions are probable.
- Correct Small Damage Early: Small scratches can be sanded with a heat gun (on HDPE) to reduce further cracking.
3. Warping and Hull Deformation
The Issue:
Both excessive heat and inadequate storage could cause warped boats constructed from plastic with unbalanced hulls to have impaired performance.
How to Prevent It:
- Store Properly: Store your boat on solid, level ground—NEVER on unlevel ground or suspended from the gunwales.
- Don’t Overload: Too much weight can warp the hull with use. Do not exceed the manufacturer’s weight capacity.
- Select Thicker Hulls: Higher-grade HDPE boats (like Legacy boats) are less subject to warp due to their robust construction.
Upgrade to an Enduring, Longer-Lasting HDPE Fishing Boat
Plastic fishing boats are great investments, as long as you choose the right one and take good care of it. For a premium, uv-resistant, and impact-tough boat, look no further than Legacy’s HDPE boat line. Built with the serious angler who demands toughness while not wishing to compromise anything on performance, Legacy boats are constructed to withstand the fiercest elements.
Experience Legacy HDPE Boats Now and Fish with Confidence!
