Gotcha Covered Marine — Northern Idaho, Eastern Washington & Western Montana
Buying a boat lift isn't like buying a boat. There's no test drive, no showroom floor. But there are a few things that, if you get them right upfront, make the difference between a lift that works perfectly for 15 years and one that's always a little bit wrong.
1. Water Depth at Your Dock
This is the most common mistake — buying a lift sized for the wrong water depth. Most lifts have a rated depth range. If your water at the end of your dock is 8 feet deep, you need a lift rated for 8+ feet. If you're in 15 feet of water, you need a deep-water lift. Getting this wrong means the lift either doesn't reach deep enough, or it's dramatically overbuilt for your situation.
2. Boat Weight (Loaded, Not Dry)
Always size for your boat's wet, loaded weight — not the dry weight from the spec sheet. A loaded pontoon boat with fuel, water, and passengers can weigh 30-40% more than the dry spec. If in doubt, go up a size. An oversized lift is fine. An undersized lift is a problem.
3. Your Dock's Layout
Beam width matters. Lift width needs to accommodate your boat's beam with margin on each side. If your dock is narrow or has unusual configurations, you may need a custom solution.
Lake Pend Orielle: Deep water is common here. Make sure your lift is rated for your actual depth — the lake drops significantly in winter and spring levels vary.
Priest Lake: Very stable water levels mean fixed lifts work well here. The north end tends to have deeper docks; the south end near the main body is more varied.
Lake Coeur d'Alene: High boat traffic in summer. Make sure your lift accommodates your boat without excess overhang — CdA docks are often closer together than on less-developed lakes.
Flathead Lake: The lake fluctuates with Kerr Dam operations. Size for low-water conditions, not just typical summer levels.
If you're unsure, call Brent. We'll ask you three questions about your dock, your boat, and your lake — and tell you exactly what we recommend. No cost, no obligation.
Call Brent for a free consultation on the right lift or cover for your lake and boat.