We’re getting robbed!” my wife cried out as a ruckus came from our front entrance. We realized it was police pounding on our door and opened it for an officer who informed us a neighbour had reported seeing someone steal my pickup from our driveway.
At first, I was angry, then relieved, since my bass boat wasn’t taken. That would have been devastating. Auto theft has been rampant. While boat and trailer theft isn’t as common, it does happen. The cost of boats — and all the gear that goes with fishing — adds up quickly, so protecting your property is a must.
Out of sight, out of mind remains the best tactic. Boats and trailers kept in a backyard or garage are usually the safest. But sometimes, parking the trailer in your driveway is the only option. Unfortunately, that means your boat is on display.
Here are some strategies for protecting your rig.
Ryan Purssel has spent 28 years with Midland’s McDougall Insurance and its predecessor, Mink Insurance. A lifelong boater who grew up on Georgian Bay, he offered these wise words.
Many boat insurance policies include what’s known as a locked vessel warranty. These vary by company, but typically require a vessel on a trailer to have an approved wheel lock or hitch lock. Alternatively, vessels and trailers may need to be stored inside a locked building. Some less-common policies also require an outdrive lock or prop lock for theft coverage of those components. Failure to meet these conditions can result in a theft claim being denied. Review your policy and speak with your insurance rep to confirm requirements.
The simplest security option is a padlock for the coupler latch. A step up is a “dog bone” lock, which slides into latch-free couplers for a solid fit. For even greater security, consider a full coupler lock which encases the coupler and is difficult to cut off.
If your trailer has a swing-away tongue, remove the pin and fold the tongue back. Then replace the pin with a lockable receiver pin. This simple fix renders the trailer untowable. Wheel locks are another option. Visually, they’re a strong deterrent — no one is chiseling one off without a fight.
Marine electronics also deserve protection. Taking electronics off the boat when not in use is a best practice, but if you prefer to leave them mounted, invest in lockable gimbal knobs. Similar to a trigger lock for guns, they eliminate theft opportunities while remaining discreet.
Knowing your boat is safe and secure brings tremendous peace of mind. A small investment of time and money can help ensure your boat doesn’t become just another statistic.
Originally published in the Ontario Out of Doors Fishing Annual 2026
