Outdoor Boat and Trailer Storage

[Lost]

I'll be storing my boat and trailer in an outdoor storage lot for the winter. Do you have any recommendations that will make the winter easier on the boat and trailer?

I've heard that the wheels should be off the ground. I'm thinking, what if I build some sort of wooden housing to put around the wheels and keep the snow off of them?

I'm also thinking about getting a "Sterns Weatherproof Cover" for the boat. But how would I keep the cover from drooping in the middle of the boat due to the weight of the snow?

Any other suggestions you can think of? Anybody have a shed I can park the boat in for the winter at less than $25/month (which I'm currently paying for this outdoor storage).

[Animal]

When I used to store my boat outside for the winter I would notch out 2X4s and place them every 24 inches virtically along the gunwales(SP) of the boat. I would then lay some 1/4 inch plywood edge to edge and cover with a plastic tarp. This method would keep everything inside high and dry. I would also use two pieces of 2X8 under each tire. I don't think you need to cover the tire, but the 2X8 keep the tire from freezing in during the spring thaw. Also, make sure you cover your lower unit. I used double 40 gallon plactic bags which will generaly cover the whole lower unit. I've read that there is a possiblity that snow can get compressed in the water ports and then freeze causing damage. Make sure you leave the plug open and the boat tipped back far enough so water can get out. Check on it every now and then.

------------------
If your are lucky enough to go fishing; you are lucky enough.

[bucketmouth64]

I put bags around all my tires. Someone told me that the sun damages the tires during the winter months. I can't remember to what degree. I also keep my tires off the ground.

[Lost]

Thanks for the suggestions guys! If you have a drawing or pic of how you placed those 2X4's and plywood, that'd be a tremendous help! I think I've got the idea but I'm not positive.