The Best Boat Storage in La Plume, Pennsylvania

As the vibrant autumn colors fade along the banks of the Lackawanna River and Tunkhannock Creek, boat owners in La Plume, Pennsylvania, face a familiar annual task: preparing their vessels for winter storage. The unique climate of Northeastern Pennsylvania, with its cold, snowy winters and potential for freezing temperatures from November through March, makes proper winterization and storage not just a recommendation, but a necessity for protecting your investment. Whether you trailer your boat or keep it at a local marina, a proactive approach to winter boat storage is key to ensuring a smooth launch come spring.

First and foremost, a complete winterization is non-negotiable. This goes beyond simply covering the boat. For the freshwater systems common on local waterways, you must thoroughly drain the engine block, manifolds, and any water lines to prevent catastrophic cracking from ice expansion. Adding marine-grade antifreeze to the plumbing systems provides an extra layer of security against our region's deep freezes. Don't forget to stabilize your fuel and run the stabilized mixture through the engine to protect the carburetor or fuel injectors. Removing the battery and storing it indoors on a trickle charger will prevent it from freezing and dying over the long offseason.

Choosing the right storage location in the La Plume area is your next critical decision. Many local marinas, like those on Lake Winola or Lake Carey, offer secure outdoor storage with shrink-wrapping services. This robust plastic sheathing is excellent for keeping out snow, ice, and curious critters. If you have the space, indoor storage in a barn or dedicated storage facility in Susquehanna or Lackawanna County provides the ultimate protection from the elements, though it comes at a higher cost. For those storing on a trailer at home, select a level, paved spot if possible. Placing the trailer on blocks to take weight off the tires and using a quality, breathable cover supported by a frame will prevent moisture buildup and cover sag from heavy, wet Pennsylvania snow.

Finally, take this quiet season as an opportunity. Before tucking your boat away for winter storage, give the hull a good cleaning to remove any algae or grime from local waters. Inspect the hull for cracks or blisters, check the propeller for nicks, and lubricate moving parts like the steering system and control cables. Making a list of any issues you find allows you to schedule repairs over the winter, avoiding the spring rush at local marine shops. By following these steps, you can rest easy knowing your boat is safely stored, ready to explore the beautiful waterways of NEPA when warmer weather returns.