Pest Control On Your Boat

When you go boating, you are out there to have fun, not deal with pests. Spiders, rats, mice, birds, insects, raccoons, and even sea creatures like otters can all invade your vessel. Not only can these unwanted guests disrupt your enjoyment, but they can cause major damage if left unchecked. Animals often leave droppings or eat away at materials like wood and fabric to obtain nesting materials. Your boat is not only a major investment but an important part of your life. It’s understandable that you would want to protect it, and luckily there are all kinds of ways to keep animals out.

The experts at Northwest Inboards have put together this handy guide on water-bound pest control. For more information, visit our dealership in Issaquah, Washington. We are conveniently located within a half hour of both Bellevue and Seattle. 

A Thorough Clean

The first step in pest control is making your boat less attractive to animals, which can be achieved through regular boat cleanings. For example, animals see piles of things like trash, leaves, nets, or unfurled sails as potential sources of nesting materials, so clear them away promptly.

One of the biggest factors that can draw pests to your boat is the scent of food. If an animal thinks you have a snack onboard, it will be far more eager to investigate. Don’t leave food stored on your vessel long term and clean up any spills. If you like to fish or grill on your boat, clear away anything that might give off a food-like smell.

Both for reasons of conservation and to prevent them from seeing your boat as a food source, don’t feed any animals that come close. Throwing food to animals like seagulls or otters may seem benevolent, but it only encourages them to return. 

Use Scented Deterrents

As much as scent can attract animals, it can also keep them away. One home solution is to mix ammonia with cayenne pepper and rub or spray your boat’s edges, which is effective at keeping insects away. Wear gloves and goggles when applying the solution, and make sure to keep it out of your eyes. It is recommended that you reapply the deterrent every month. 

Some boat owners use mothballs, which have a strong scent that deters both insects and other creatures. The mothballs should be hung from tubes or in sheets of fabric around your boat’s edges. They can also be stowed in the compartments. Larger animals like raccoons and otters can be driven off by placing dryer sheets throughout your boat and scattering around very heavily scented soaps. As a bonus, your deck will smell amazing!

Ultrasonic Sound Devices

A more high-tech solution is an ultrasound device. The same technology used by gardeners and homeowners to discourage raccoons and deer works equally well on your watercraft. Different animals respond to different frequencies, so search around for a device that is correctly tuned for the intended target. The good news is that these frequencies will often be completely inaudible to you! To keep the device going long term, consider a solar-powered model. 

Covers

A sturdy canvas cover can do more than protect your boat from the weather when it is stored outdoors. It can also be an effective deterrent to animal stowaways. Make sure that your boat is completely covered, with no gaps anywhere.  Remember that even a very small hole is a potential entrance for an animal who wants to board your boat. If you are concerned about whether your cover can effectively keep animals out, consider storing your boat indoors.

If you have any questions or just want to view a great selection of new and used boats, visit  Northwest Inboards at our dealership in Issaquah, Washington. We are proud to serve the western Washington state area, including nearby communities like Sammamish and Mercer Islands.