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Random Quote: Opinions are like a-holes...everyone's got one and they usually stink.
Take it off to grease the shaft and then you can put it back on. Otherwsie, you run the risk of the prop getting stuck on the shaft. Replace the cotter pin too.
Well, there are a few reasons. Theft is number one depending on where it's stored (IE not in your yard). Next, would be that it's a good idea to grease the splines every year to prevent the prop from welding itself to teh shaft. It's a disaster to get it off if that happens. And last, it's easier to cover and keep water out without the prop on.
If the boat is in your yard or in a secure place, you grease the shaft at other times during the year, and you keep the motor tilted down during storage- you can leave it on. I leave mine on.
gemini11
Two reasons:
Greasing the prop-shaft and to check for fishing line. Get that line wrapped around your prop-shaft behind the prop and the next thing you know you are burning the shaft seal out and getting a new lower unit because the gearlube ran out of it.
Some insurance companies cover this kind of damage though.
In my relm of people, we pull the prop if we even think fishing line has gotten around the prop. IE you got cut off on the prop by a fish running.
hey it's only 10min to check and the cost of a cotter pin. If it cuts the seal, just break out MR. Visa and pay on it for the next year. NOT!
Hell I pull my prop EVERY time I get home, it takes 30 seconds. BTW when you run out of cotter pins galvanized finishing nails can be used just as good.
It's good practice to remove a few times a year. Imagine leaning over your engine in 2-3 foot slop trying to remove because of damage.. Also do not forget ( for those who live in the north ) to wrap your lower-in in plastic bags after you have service it. Do not want your shaft cavity to fill with water and freeze cracking it... Seen this before... Ouch $$$$ --- Mitch
Remove Prop? 
the practise reminds us to at least grease and inspect the prop and cotter pin once a year.
