If you own a Bass Tracker, you know how much care it takes to keep it in good shape. And while most of us don’t think twice about fuel, gear, or routine cleaning, tracker boat covers .
But here’s the thing: the wrong cover can do more harm than good. From water damage to mold and even scratches while trailering, it only takes one bad choice to end up with problems that could’ve been avoided.
In this post, we’re breaking down five common mistakes Tracker owners make when buying boat covers and how to steer clear of them.
Settling for a “One-Size-Fits-All” Cover
It’s common to go with a one-size-fits-most cover, especially if you’re buying online or in a hurry. While universal covers can offer general protection, they rarely provide the fit needed for real, long-term use—especially for a specific model like a Bass Tracker.
Even a few extra inches of slack can cause water pooling, wind flapping, or areas left uncovered. Over time, that leads to wear, and your boat ends up exposed to the very things you’re trying to protect it from.
Better option:
Look for a cover made to fit your exact Bass Tracker Pro model, or at least a semi-custom option that matches your boat’s shape and dimensions.
Overlooking Fabric Quality and Durability
One of the most important aspects of any boat cover is fabric, but it is usually overlooked, maybe in favor of appearance or price.
Cheapest materials that make the covers may seem good initially; however, with routine sun exposure, rain, and wind, covers can take a beating. Others even begin to wear out within the first season or two, particularly when not stored indoors on a full-time basis.
Another concern? Poor ventilation. Non-breathable materials may cause moisture to become trapped under the cover, thus stimulating the growth of molds and mildew—particularly during warmer temperatures or after it rains.
What to look for:
Choose marine-grade polyester or similar weather-resistant materials. These fabrics offer strong UV protection, resist water, and help prevent mildew buildup. Some of the better covers even come with built-in ventilation flaps to allow airflow underneath without letting rain in.
It’s worth paying a bit more for fabric that lasts multiple seasons and protects your boat properly.
Not Matching the Cover to How You Use Your Boat
Every boater’s needs are a little different. Some people store their Tracker indoors, while others keep it outside year-round. Some trailer their boat often; others barely move it.
Using a light cover for trailering or a heavyweight trailer-rated cover for quick storage can both create frustration. The first may not hold up during transport, and the second may be harder to work with for everyday use.
Tip:
Think about your main use case—storage, travel, or both—and choose a cover that’s designed with that in mind. Reinforced seams, secure tie-downs, and tight fits are essential for towing. For outdoor storage, look for good weather resistance and proper ventilation.
Not Measuring Your Boat Accurately
A small measuring mistake can lead to a poor fit, which often means your cover doesn’t do its job. Even within the Bass Tracker lineup, dimensions vary slightly from model to model—and that matters more than most people think.
Boat covers that are too tight may tear or stretch. Too loose, and they leave parts of the boat exposed or shift in the wind.
Best practice:
Take accurate measurements of your boat’s full length, beam width, and any raised features. Then match those numbers to the cover’s sizing guide before buying.
Skipping Features That Improve Fit and Longevity
At a glance, many boat covers look similar. However, minor considerations can cause a significant improvement in usability and reliability.
Reinforced corners, elastic hems, built-in vents, and quick-release buckles are not mere gimmicks to sell more boat covers. This assists in installation, facilitates more cover life, and improves everyday usage—particularly in real-world weather conditions.
Why it is important:
Suppose that you do not have a vent on your cover. That moisture remains trapped there after a rainstorm. A couple of days later, you will begin to smell the mildew. Or perhaps the corners are missing reinforcements, like on two windy days later the material starts tearing at the point where it touches the console. This is what minor upgrades are supposed to avoid.
Once you have a similar-sized boat cover for a bass tracker in the same fabric, choose the one that has superior construction and design attributes.
Final Thoughts
The right cover doesn’t just keep your boat clean, but it also protects your time, your gear, and your investment. And when you get it right the first time, you avoid the cycle of replacing cheap covers, cleaning up avoidable messes, or dealing with unexpected damage.
If you’re currently looking at tracker boat covers, focus on the fit, fabric, and functionality. Skip the guesswork. And also, don’t settle for “good enough.” A cover made for your boat and your lifestyle will serve you far better over time.
A little attention now means fewer headaches later, and more time enjoying your Bass Tracker the way it was meant to be used: out on the water, worry-free.
