Bass Boat Covers 17-19ft: Ultimate Fit & Buying Guide

Bass boat covers 17-19ft is the obvious phrase you searched for, and in the first sentence you’ll get the core promise: this guide shows how to measure, choose, install, and maintain the right cover so your boat stays protected year-round. Start by recording exact LOA and beam before you shop, because advertised ranges hide critical fit variables. For step-by-step measuring, see our measuring guide and consult climate data from NOAA climate info when choosing UV and waterproofing levels. You’ll learn practical checklists, comparison tips between universal and custom fits, and common mistakes owners make that force returns or early replacements. The guide covers trailerable versus moored use, motor pockets, breathable backs, and quick decision rules so you leave with confidence.

How to measure and choose the right fit for 17-19ft bass boats

Measuring for bass boat covers 17-19ft means treating the range as a starting point, not a guarantee. Nominal lengths are marketing shorthand; the hull profile, beam, and motor height decide which cover will sit snug. Always measure along the centerline from bow tip to stern transom for true LOA, then record beam at the widest gunnel point. Note the tallest points — consoles, windshields, and livewells — and measure motor height from the transom to the top of the highest protrusion. If your boat carries a trolling motor or rocket launcher, measure clearance from those accessories as well. Use a tape measure and a helper for accuracy, and mark any protruding gear so you can specify motor pockets or cutouts when ordering.

Step-by-step measuring: length, beam, motor height, and profile

Follow this ordered checklist to avoid common mistakes:

1. Measure LOA along centerline from bow tip to transom outside edge.
2. Measure beam at the widest gunnel point, with upholstery and railings in place.
3. Measure highest point inside the cockpit and highest external point like windshield or console.
4. Measure motor height from transom top to the highest motor part and note any tilt positions.

Record values in feet and inches and add notes for accessories. If your LOA sits near the top of the range, lean up one size for trailerable covers; for moored setups you may need custom shaping instead of a simple one-size solution.

How boat type (V-hull bass, jon, bass boat) changes fit needs

V-hull bass boats often have pronounced bow peaks and stepped cockpits that require tailored bow cuts. Jon boats are flatter and benefit from simpler covers with less shaping. Classic raised-console bass boats can need deeper cockpit panels or motor pockets. A tall console or windshield changes the profile so the cover must allow extra internal height without creating sag points. When in doubt, specify hull type to the seller and include measurements for peak points on your order form.

Trailerable covers vs mooring covers — what to measure differently

Trailerable covers need tie-down points, transom straps, and sometimes ratchet systems to withstand highway speeds. Mooring covers emphasize sealed seams and support poles to prevent pooling and wind stress. Measure for trailer cutouts like a winch post and fender clearances. If you trailer frequently, choose a cover that lists ratchet- or strap-ready hardware and check trailer interference points during a dry fit.

Quick sizing chart and when to choose stretch vs custom

Simple sizing rules: if your LOA is exactly 17′ and beam under 90″, a 17′ trailerable cover usually fits; if LOA is 18′ or beam is over 94″, choose 18′ or 19′ or go semi-custom. Stretch covers work when shape is similar across models; choose custom if you have towers, tall consoles, or unique transom layouts. For product-specific fit examples see the product page for trailerable 17–19ft covers showing motor pockets and vents.

• Measure LOA accurately
• Record beam and peak heights
• Note accessories and trailer cutouts

Materials, construction & protection: which cover is best

Material choice determines weight, durability, breathability, and packability for bass boat covers 17-19ft. Common deniers include 300D, 600D, and 1200D polyester or oxford weaves. 300D is light and packable but less abrasion-resistant; 600D balances cost and durability and suits most trailerable covers; 1200D is heavy duty for moored boats and high abrasion zones. Coatings like PU, PVC, and acrylic alter waterproofing and breathability: PU offers good water resistance with some breathability, PVC is fully waterproof but heavy, and acrylic gives UV stability. Choose breathable backs for stored boats to reduce condensation and select sealed or taped seams for continuous exposure.

Common materials compared (600D, 1200D, polyester, oxford, canvas)

Compare typical choices: 600D PU-coated polyester is the trailerable sweet spot; 1200D is for long-term mooring where abrasion and UV are relentless. Oxford weaves are light and packable for anglers on the go, while canvas blends are traditional and breathable but require more care. Think about your storage environment: inland freshwater, heavy sun, or saltwater near the coast — the wrong fabric shortens life.

Coatings and features: PU, PVC, acrylic, breathable backs, UV treatment

Coatings protect fibers and affect breathability. PU-coated fabrics repel water while allowing some moisture transfer; PVC coatings block all moisture but trap condensation unless vents exist. UV treatments slow sun degradation; ask for UV ratings or manufacturer exposure tests. Look for double coatings in saltwater conditions and breathable backs if you leave the cover on for weeks. See real-world weather guidance via local forecasts before choosing UV protection levels.

Seams, reinforcements, and hardware to look for (grommets, buckles, straps)

Construction matters: double-stitched seams with seam tape or seam sealer outperform raw stitched seams. Reinforced stress points and grommets at transom and bow reduce tear risk. Hardware should be rust-proof — especially in saltwater — and buckles should be quick-release for frequent trailer use. Consider covers with built-in motor pockets and reinforced ratchet anchor points if you tow regularly.

Pro tip: choose taped seams for mooring and breathable backs for covered storage to avoid mildew and trapped moisture.

• Check denier and coating
• Verify seam sealing
• Prefer rust-proof hardware

Installation, securing, and towing with a 17-19ft bass boat cover

Proper installation extends cover life and prevents damage during trailering. For bass boat covers 17-19ft, prepare the boat by cleaning and ensuring fittings are secure. A tight, even tension prevents flapping and abrasion. Start at the bow, pull the cover aft, align motor pockets, and fasten bow and stern straps before tightening transom straps. Use ratchets for long-distance towing and elastic hems for quick storage. Inspect all straps and stitching before every tow.

Step-by-step installation for tight, trailerable fits

Installation steps in order:

1. Clean and dry the hull and fittings.
2. Drape cover starting at bow, smoothing over peaks.
3. Align motor pocket and cockpit cutouts.
4. Fasten bow and stern tie-downs, then tighten transom straps last.

Check strap tension after the first five miles of towing and again after the first stop. Use edge protectors where straps cross rails or cleats to prevent chafing.

Securing methods: straps, transom hooks, ratchets, and covers for trolling motors

Securing systems matter: quick-release buckles work for storage; ratchet systems provide repeatable tension for highway speeds — learn more from the ratchet guide. Motor pockets and post pockets for trolling motors keep gear from shifting under the cover. Use secondary safety straps as backups and inspect buckles for UV-cracking before each trip.

Towing best practices and speed/strap tips for trailering

When towing, moderate tension is key: too loose and wind flaps stress seams, too tight and you can tear reinforced points. Aim for firm but not over-tight tension and re-check after initial miles. Reduce speed in high winds, avoid abrupt maneuvers, and use foam pads under straps crossing seats or consoles to prevent pressure points.

Preventing water pooling and wind damage (support poles, tensioning)

Support poles prevent water pooling which leads to sag and ice issues in winter. Tension the cover evenly and use grommet anchors to spread load. If you store outdoors, add extra tie-downs at mid-length to resist uplift. When possible, angle the boat on the trailer slightly bow-up to shed water.

• Use ratchets for long tows
• Check straps after 5 miles
• Employ support poles for mooring

Safety note: follow official trailer and mooring guidance and check local weather before towing to avoid exposure to sudden storms.

Care, maintenance, repairs and seasonal storage

Regular care keeps a bass boat covers 17-19ft performing for seasons. Rinse salt off after each use, allow the cover to dry fully before folding, and wash with mild soap every 3–6 months. Avoid bleach or harsh detergents that break coatings down. Inspect seams and hardware monthly and repair small tears promptly with patch kits and seam sealer. For long-term storage, pack covers in dry bags with silica packs and keep them off the ground to deter rodents.

Cleaning, drying, and stain/UV treatment — do’s and don’ts

Do rinse away salt after coastal trips, use soft brushes and mild soap for stains, and air-dry completely. Don’t fold wet covers into bags, don’t use bleach, and don’t machine-dry fabrics unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it. Apply UV protectants designed for marine fabrics to extend life in high-sun locations.

Small repairs and seam sealing — DIY fixes to extend life

Patch small tears using fabric kits, backing patches, and marine adhesives. Use seam sealer on stitched seams and reinforce high-stress areas with extra patches. If grommets fail, replace with a reinforced patch and new hardware. Keep a repair kit in your garage for quick fixes and inspect the repair after a few weeks of use.

Long-term storage and winterizing tips for covered boats

For winter, install support poles to prevent snow pooling and add vents to reduce condensation. Store covers in breathable storage bags and use desiccants to control moisture. If you store indoors, choose a breathable back to avoid mildew. Check the cover mid-winter after storms to ensure tension remains correct.

Warranty, returns, and when to replace your cover

Check warranty length and what it covers: seam leaks, hardware failure, and fabric delamination are common claims. If the cover has multiple unrepaired tears, extensive UV brittleness, or failing hardware, replacement is safer than repeated patching. Review return policies before purchase and document measurements and photos if you plan to claim warranty service.

• Rinse after saltwater use
• Dry before storage
• Repair small tears promptly

Buying guide: types, budgets, custom vs universal, and checklist

When shopping for bass boat covers 17-19ft, choose based on use case: trailerable anglers want packable, ratchet-ready covers; lakeside moored owners need taped seams and heavier deniers; indoor-stored boats benefit from breathable, lighter covers. Price bands are real: budget covers under $80 may be fine for seasonal, protected use; mid-range $80–200 balances features and durability; premium $200+ offers sealed seams, heavy denier fabric, and rust-proof hardware. Decide between universal, semi-custom, and fully custom: universals are affordable and fast, semi-custom adds critical pockets or cutouts, fully custom matches hull contours but costs and lead time increase.

Universal vs semi-custom vs fully custom covers — pros and cons

Universal covers fit many boats and are cheap, but they often leave gaps or create pooling. Semi-custom covers tweak fit for motors or consoles and are the best compromise for most owners. Fully custom ensures perfect shape and longevity but requires measurement precision and longer lead times. Align your choice with storage exposure and frequency of towing.

Cost vs longevity: what to expect at different price points

Expect budget covers to last 1–2 seasons in heavy use, mid-range to last 3–5 with care, and premium to last 5+ years if maintained. Factor warranty scope into value: longer seam warranties and hardware guarantees reduce total cost of ownership.

Essential accessories (motor covers, support poles, security locks)

Accessories add value: motor pockets, separate motor covers, support poles, and security locks help protect equipment and prevent theft. A storage bag and clear return policy are practical extras. Check product pages for included hardware and optional add-ons like reflective strips for safety.

Final buying checklist for bass boat covers 17-19ft

Before you click buy, verify this checklist:

1. Accurate LOA and beam recorded on paper.
2. Material and denier specified for your environment.
3. Seam treatment and hardware listed.
4. Motor/trolling motor compatibility confirmed.
5. Return policy and warranty checked.

Use these points to compare brands and avoid common returns.

Conclusion

Accurate measuring, informed material choice, correct installation, and regular care will make any bass boat covers 17-19ft last much longer and protect your investment. Measure LOA, beam, and peak heights now, decide trailerable versus mooring needs, and pick a material tailored to your local weather. If you trailer frequently, pick ratchet-ready covers; if you moor in sun, choose heavy denier with taped seams and UV treatment. For more product details on waterproof fabrics consult our waterproof fabrics resource and refer to environmental guidance from the EPA guidance when considering chemical treatments.

Quick summary and recommended next steps

Action checklist: measure length & beam now, select trailerable vs moored use, pick material suited to salt or sun, and verify warranty before purchase. For measuring help revisit the measuring guide or check the product details on the product page. For weather planning consult local forecasts at local forecasts and carry a small repair kit to extend cover life.

Short buyer action checklist

• Measure now
• Choose material
• Pick securing system
• Confirm warranty

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the best bass boat cover?

There isn’t a single manufacturer that makes the best bass boat cover for everyone; the best choice depends on your boat size, storage method, and climate. Look for covers made from durable marine-grade materials with a snug custom fit or a well-sized universal option, depending on whether you want tailored protection or a budget-friendly universal cover. Consider features like reinforced tie-down points, vents to reduce condensation, and UV-resistant coatings. For example, if you store outdoors you’ll want a cover with UV-resistant and mildew-resistant finishes; if you trailer often, focus on secure attachment systems and abrasion resistance.

Do boats over 20 feet need a capacity plate?

Many boats over 20 feet do require a capacity plate or equivalent documentation, but the requirement depends on the boat type and state regulations. A capacity plate gives official limits for passenger count and weight for certain recreational powerboats, but exceptions exist for documented vessels, sailboats, or specific commercial craft. To be safe, check your boat’s paperwork, the manufacturer’s label, and your state boating authority for precise rules. If you can’t find a plate, contact the manufacturer or a certified marine surveyor to determine safe capacity and make sure your insurance and registration documents are in order.

How heavy is a 17 foot bass boat?

A 17-foot bass boat typically weighs between about 700 and 1,700 pounds when measured as dry weight, but actual weight varies with hull material, engine, and added gear. Fiberglass hulls usually weigh more than aluminum, and a larger outboard, batteries, electronics, and livewell systems add significant pounds. Remember to account for fuel, passengers, and trolling motor when calculating trailering weight—your trailer and tow vehicle must handle the combined load. To get an accurate number for your specific boat, check the owner’s manual, the manufacturer’s spec sheet, or weigh the boat on a certified scale.

Does Tractor Supply sell boat covers?

Tractor Supply commonly carries a selection of boat covers and related accessories, but availability varies by store and season. You can typically find universal fit covers, tie-down straps, and basic protective gear in larger locations or online, though specialty custom covers are less likely. Before you go, measure your boat and check the product listings on the Tractor Supply website or call your local store to confirm stock and sizing. If they don’t have the exact cover you need, they can often recommend alternatives or direct you to local marine upholsterers for custom options.