Pest Control Tips For Boaters

Once you’ve invested in a boat, you'll want to ensure that you’re taking good care of it at all times, which means protecting it from damage as much as you can. One of the most common sources of damage is pest infestation. Whether the issue is with rodents, larger mammals, birds or insects, you’ll need to address it promptly and get them cleared out.

But what’s to stop those pests from coming back as soon as you leave the storage space or marina? Simple: effective pest control strategies! If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to keeping animals and insects off your prized vessel, this guide by your friends at Riva Motorsports & Marine of the Keys should help.

Clean Thoroughly

First off, whenever you leave your boat for any length of time, it’s wise to make sure it’s clean inside. Any lingering trash, odors, spills or actual food products will be an instant draw to creatures of all stripes and they’re going to crawl onboard to seek out your treats. Clear out trash, remove all food and wipe up any spills. Fishers, you’ll want to make sure any fishy odors are cleaned out of livewells. Take out the grill if you have one and store it at home instead of leaving it on board.

You also don’t want to leave piles of fabric or materials around that would make a good nesting space. Remove sails, towels, linens, newspapers and anything that might be a tempting building material for animals.

Add Scent As A Deterrent

Pests are highly sensitive to many strong aromas, so you can use this to your advantage and scatter scented items around your boat as a deterrent. A solution of ammonia and cayenne pepper, cautiously applied to the edges of your boat while you’re wearing gloves and goggles, will send most mammals running the other way because of its caustic stench.

For insects of all types, mothballs are an effective solution, either hung up in the cabin or hidden in compartments. Perfumed dryer sheets and very strong bar soaps like Irish Spring are inexpensive and easy to place around your boat as a further ward against pests, and they have the added benefit of making your boat smell amazing when you return to it!

Keep It Covered

Investing in a tight-fitting cover for your boat will ensure that no pests can get inside it. A loose cover will leave gaps that they can crawl under easily, so make sure you get one that perfectly fits your boat like a glove. You’ll want to inspect this cover periodically for signs of wear or damage and repair any holes. This has the added benefit of keeping water and dust out of your craft.

Store Your Craft Well

Finally, storing your craft sensibly will go a long way towards preventing any critter invasions. Leaving your boat docked at the marina or parked in a trailer outdoors is simply asking for otters, raccoons, mice and birds to flock to it as a refuge. Store your boat in your garage or shed or look into dry storage options at local marinas. You want somewhere that’s secure and doesn’t have openings to the outdoors.

Looking to trade in your current vessel or purchase a new one? Come into our dealership in Key Largo to see our full selection of new and used boats for sale. Our staff will be glad to help you find the right craft for your needs. Riva Motorsports & Marine of the Keys proudly serves all of the Florida Keys as well as nearby Homestead, FL.