Always in the water, even if it means getting my feet wet.

I always winch mine up onto the trailer since I am by myself most of the time. I usually wear sandles so getting my feet wet isn't a problem.

I bring my boat up to within a foot of the winch get out and winch her the rest of the way, it's fun watching all the comedy at the launche's though, wish I had a camera sometime's lol!!! Junebugman

k thanks guys i have always done it in the water but I was watching Brauer bass battles and they just run it up on trailer and the other one pulled em out. Just got me curious how you all do it.

I always hook up before the boat comes out of the water.

I do know from my Ranger owner friends that you can pull a Ranger out without the strap. I think it has to do with the design of the trailor. If I'm not mistaken the Brauers run Rangers.