Pontoons and Salt Water--Thoughts?

[SoCalAngler]

I've been wondering about the use of pontoons in salt water. I see pics on this site and others which show toons in the ocean and bays/harbors. I'm a long time sailor and fisherman, with many hours on the Pacific, and simply love the ocean, but I purchased my toon with sweet water in mind (local lakes, rivers, etc). Now I'm wondering if a few times a year on San Diego Bay, La Harbor, LA Harbor would jeopardize my very clean and corrosion-free toon!

So, who uses their toon in salt water and can share thoughts about handling, waves, wind, and ESPECIALLY corrosion (boat, motor, trailer, etc.........!

Thanks!

[margaritaman]

No problems using pontoon boats in salt water. Just be sure to flush the motor and give the boat a good washing after every use. If you do not have an aluminum or galvanized trailer be sure to wash it down real good or they will rust. Springs on the axel will rust and have to be replaced every few years. Mine gets replaced every three years. Wheels will also rust unless they are aluminum or galvanized.

[Gonefishing]

Mine is in salt Walter or brackish all the time. Sine I leave mine docked I have had the toons painted. You just need to make sure you take care of it. Keep it clean in salt water or fresh it's the same thing. Take care of your investment. Flush t he motor when done. Wash it down with fresh water and wipe off your seats. Because I leave mine in the water I take extra care. Toons are painted, when docked it is kept covered and is under a cover slip. Extra zinks motor flushed and seat cleaned after each use. Sprayed with fresh water when done for the day.

[BobL]

An old trick is after use in saltwater, take the boat to the nearest fresh water launch then dunk it in (trailer and all) deep and turn on the motor and let her run for a while.

The square tube trailers (even galvanized) tend to cause issues as you cannot get inside to flush it well.

[Rascal]

Coat you seats with 3M 303 and your Bimini with 3M 303 fabric guard.
Both water proof and protect from salt water and sun damage.

Two kinds of 3 M 303.. one for hard vinyl including tires.
Another for fabrics such as Bimini tops.

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