Critter in the boat!!!!!!!

[can129]

:evil: Went to go fishing yesterday and found a Raccoon inside the boat.

My boat is on a lift in Little Creek, VA and I suspect he climbed up the pole and jumped into and out of the boat using this method. I know that I have fished with him before since I ignored his foot prints on the boat before. At that time I had no idea that he could find a way inside the boat itself.

I have a 1998 232 and when I lifted the hatch to the right of the cabin sink he was laying there. I prodded him with some rolled up maps while keeping the hatch as low as possiable and he moved around the boat and came out the starboard side just under the walkaround area. When my wife yelled he went back in.

I have set a trap for him and hope he comes back out but he did not on Saturday night.

My question is this. He apparently gained access through the openings directly under the walkaround and this provides access into the cabin and the bilge areas.

Has anyone experienced this and did you find a way to prevent future problems of this nature. My wife and I are thinking about Spray Foam or Brass Wool.

Thanks,
This 4 legged crew member not needed!

 

[ocnslr]

Yes, we had a rodent take up residence for a while last Spring.

Gained entrance the same way, from the cockpit up through the open coaming area (outboard of the walkaround) and into the cabin.

I closed those access areas with aluminum screening material, affixed in place with a fast-setting mastic in a tube. Still allows ventilation through there, as designed.

BTW, we are in a slip on Pretty Lake. Pretty sure I've seen you pass by.

Brian

 

[gradyfish22]

Go to home depot and buy gutter mesh or plastic garden fencing, its cheap and will seal the area off but allow air to flow, and is not metal so it will not rust ever. For fasteners use SS so nothing rusts and they last as long as the boat.