Once boating season winds down, it’s time to start thinking about protecting your watercraft for next season. The time and effort you spend now will have a definite effect on your boat's performance and time, effort and money come spring. 

Keep in mind that your insurance policy may not cover damage due to lack of maintenance.

The best place to store your boat during the winter is under cover in a climate-controlled boat storage area; however, this can be expensive. Shrink wrapping your boat or covering it with a tarp or other sturdy cover are options too.

A great first step is to make a checklist of all tasks that need to be accomplished, including reviewing the owner's manual for manufacturer's recommendations for both your boat and motor. Check out suggestions for winterizing your boat courtesy of Discover Boating.

The DNR’s online reservations website for Michigan state harbors and parks is getting a fall makeover! The new website, launching Nov. 5, will offer the same basic functionality but will be more mobile friendly and have a new look and feel. 

Need-to-know information
If you’ve made a reservation in the last four years, your customer profile and reservation history will carry over to the new site. (Any current reservations will carry over, too.) *You’ll receive an email in late October with instructions on how to reset your profile password for the site. 

To prepare for a smooth transition, there will be a small window of time (Oct. 29 through Nov. 4) when reservations cannot be made via the website or call center. Find more information on the new reservation system.

Some of the best fishing of the year can be found during the fall months. Whether you target perch, muskie, bass, pike, trout or salmon on the Great Lakes, inland or in our rivers, there are plenty of opportunities. 

Not sure where to go? Check out Family-Friendly Fishing Waters for some great inland spots or Great Lakes Fishing Roadmaps for coastal ideas.