It could be trash in the valve. We still like a drain plug and always have. Though folks like hte valve. Our position: Put the plug in when you go fishing. The well is dry. Turn the pump on when you catch a fish the well is wet. Remove the plug when you remove our fish, hand is wet already, and livewell drains on the way home. Put plug in when going next time, Repeat process. We never see a reason for a valve, though the valve is one thing everyone really likes.