There have been several posts dealing with the issue of what one does to protect the bottom of the Hunter 216 or other Luran S plastic boats (i.e bottom paint, waxing the bottom, etc.) over the last couple of years or so. However, I would appreciate an update on the current thinking of those that leave the H216 in slips on fresh water lakes, etc. I pulled my 2004 Model H216 today after 13 months of being in the water and cleaned the bottom of the bilogical growth that had accumulated over the period. While the bottom most part of the hull is still stained somewhat, we were able to remove practically all of the biological growth on the bottom and elsewhere, except under the 2"x6" trailer supports. Since I have never bottom painted a boat before, I'm left with wondering what would be the difference in the condition of the bottom if I had bottom painted the boat and left it in fresh water for 13 months? What would I have seen anything different if I had bottom painted the boat? Could I have left it in the water for maybe 2 to 3 years before doing anything to the bottom? I would appreciate any input anyone has on this.