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What is the process to change a straight fixed tongue to a hinged tongue on a boat trailer?

It is a relatively simple procedure. After careful consideration of where and how the winch post will be located the trailer tongue is sawed in half. Holes are drilled to accommodate the hinge, any modifications required to the trailer wiring are made and the hinge is bolted to the two trailer tongue pices.

Fulton, I believe is a manufacturer of kits needed to install the hinges. Search www.youtube.com for videos on the work required.

Are you adding length or just adding a hinge?

Select hinge kit based on tongue size, weight rating - https://www.etrailer.com/s.aspx?qry=tongue+hinge

Their directions are really good.

From memory -

Adding new tongue section to existing cut off coupler so you have a clean end of tongue. **
***For adding a hinge into an existing section of tongue - Mark line on all four sides and cut with reciprocating saw. Debure edges.
Remove safety chains.
Dry fit hinge - mark hole locations.
Dimple hole centers.
Drill all 4 holes.
Debur holes
Install hinge, bolts and tighten nuts

New tongue section:
Dry fit hinge - mark hole locations.
Dimple hole centers.
Drill all 4 holes.
Debur holes
Install hinge, bolts and tighten nuts
Dry fit coupler
Dimple hole centers.
Drill all 4 holes.
Debur holes, install bolts and nuts
Select safety chain/cable location
Dimple hole centers
Drill holes
Install chains/cable, washers nuts and bolts.

Install trailer harness extension.
https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Wiring/Hopkins/HM48145.html

Install video - https://www.etrailer.com/Folding-Trailer-Tongue/Fulton/FHDPB230101.html

If the trailer is painted steel, then any cut lines should be primed and painted to prevent rust.

If the trailer is galvanized steel, then any cut lines should be treated with a galvanizing compound to prevent rust.

Thank you both. I would be only adding a hinge in order to get the boat and trailer into a garage. Just considering that but I can see its definitely an option.