Floating equipment is a process that turns a conventional flat-bottom or PVC boat into an effective tool for fishing. fishing-boat Not only does it increase catchability, it also provides water safety, making you feel confident even in difficult weather conditions, and many beginners make the mistake of buying an expensive boat but saving on key equipment elements, which ultimately negates all the benefits of the design.
The modern market offers a wide range of solutions, from simple mechanical rod holders to complex electronic complexes with the integration of cartplotters and radars, and it is important to understand that the choice depends on the type of reservoir, the method of fishing and, of course, the budget. Inflatable boats They require a special approach to attaching heavy appliances, while metal boats allow you to mount stationary systems. In this article, we will examine the critical nodes without which fishing becomes a test.
Navigation and Electronics: The Captain's Eyes
In poor visibility or in unfamiliar water, relying on memory and intuition is dangerous. mapplotter It's a device that combines GPS and electronic maps, and allows you to see your location, map your routes, and mark your catch points for repeat visits, and without it, fishing in large reservoirs or coastal seas becomes a lottery.
The second critical element is the sonar, which not only shows the depth, but also visualizes the structure of the bottom, the presence of driftwood, grass and, most importantly, fish. Garmin or LowranceThey use side-scanning technology to see the bottom tens of meters away from the boat, which gives them a tremendous advantage in finding predator sites.
To save battery power on long fishing, adjust the brightness of the sounder screen to a minimally comfortable level and turn off the sound signals of depth.
And we should also keep in mind that there is often no mobile connection far from shore, so having a VHF or satellite tracker on the sea can save lives, and these devices allow you to signal a distress or communicate with other vessels. Satellite messenger with SOS function is a mandatory element of security when entering open waters where there is no cellular coverage.
Anchor system and boat control
Keeping the boat on point is a basic task, the solution of which directly affects the result of fishing. Manual sampling of anchors from depths of more than 5 meters quickly tires, so anchor-winch The electric swabs are controlled by a foot pedal or a remote control, which allows the angler to stay on board with a fishing rod in his hands.
An anchor system is used for precise positioning above the fishing point, especially in wind or current. Lock-N-Load Or just a reliable anchor shaft with a fast-fasting carbine, and it's important to correctly calculate the length of the anchor rope: it must be 3-4 times the depth of the parking lot, and using the chain between the anchor and the rope helps to press the rope to the bottom and increases the angle of engagement of the anchor's paws.
If the budget allows, the ideal solution would be to install an electric motor with an anchor function. Minn Kota UlterraIt automatically keeps the boat at a given point, compensating for the wind and current to blow it off, freeing the angler's hands and allowing you to focus on wiring the bait completely.
☑️ Checking the anchor system
Power supply and electrical system
The modern boat is a consumer of electricity. Sonars, navigators, winches, pumps and lighting require stable power supply. The basis of the system is a deep-discharge traction battery (Deep Cycle), unlike starter batteries, they are designed for long-term energy return in low currents and withstand many charge-discharge cycles.
Energy management and equipment protection are required switchboard It allows you to split the power to different customers and disconnect them independently, using high-quality marine wiring with insulation, resistant to ultraviet and salt water, is mandatory, ordinary car wire on a boat will quickly become useless due to the oxidation of contacts.
Lithium or lead?
Lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are significantly lighter than lead-acid batteries and have a larger cycle life, but require a special charge controller and are more expensive. Lead-based AGM or GEL batteries are a proven classic, cheaper but heavier and afraid of deep discharge.
Be sure to set the voltmeter on the instrument panel. The voltage control allows you to notice the battery discharge in time and prevent the situation when you are left without movement or communication away from shore. It is also useful to have a portable charger or solar panel to maintain charge throughout the day.
Safety and rescue equipment
Safety on the water is no compromise, even experienced water-engines must have a kit on board. lifejackets The vests must be matched to size and weight, and must be in an easily accessible place, not hidden in handoos. For night fishing, reflective elements or LED beacons on vests are required.
The minimum emergency kit also includes a scoop, a boat repair kit, a first aid kit, signaling aids (false faeers, whistles) and a spare anchor. If you fish alone, having a safety flap attached to the boat can save lives in the event of a fall overboard.
⚠️ Warning: Never neglect to check the expiration date of pyrotechnic signaling means. An expired false fire may simply fail at a critical moment when rescue depends on it.
On a boat with a petrol engine or gas stove, the risk of fire is real. The extinguisher must be mounted in an accessible place, but away from the likely source of fire (for example, not directly above the engine!).
Regularly checking the configuration and expiration dates of lifeguard equipment should become a habit as checking the level of oil in the engine.
Comfort and ergonomics of fishing
Fishing is often a long wait, and comfort is not the last thing. fishing-chair With an adjustable backrest and 360-degree rotation, it will reduce the load on the spine. PVC boats are popular for inflatable chairs or lightweight folding structures that are attached to transom plates.
Storage of gear is another important aspect: the use of hermormunks (waterproof drawers) allows you to keep things dry and use them as seats or tables. For spinningians, vertical rod holders are indispensable, allowing you to quickly change gear and free your hands.
Sun and rain protection also applies to comfort equipment: awnings, umbrellas and raincoats made of membrane fabrics allow you to fish in any weather without sacrificing health. In hot weather, having a thermal box refrigerator will keep food and drink fresh.
- 🎣 The rod-holders must be adjustable and securely fix the tackle even with a sharp jerk of fish.
- 🔦 Headlight Red light is necessary for night fishing, so as not to blind yourself and your partners.
- 🧊 Thermobox The 20-40 litres is optimal for a day fishing for two.
Comparison of popular equipment models
When choosing equipment, the question of price-quality is often raised. Below is a comparative table of popular categories of equipment, which will help to navigate the variety of offers in the market.
| Type of equipment | Budget segment | Mid-segment | Premium segment |
|---|---|---|---|
| echoer | Practitioner (Russia) | Lowrance Hook2 | Garmin Panoptix |
| Anchor winch | Mechanical (manual) | Min Kota Deckhand 40 | Quick Anchor Windlass |
| Battery | Lead starter | AGM Deep Cycle | LiFePO4 with BMS |
| Electric motor | Haswing (basic) | Minn Kota Endura | Minn Kota Ulterra |
When choosing equipment, always consider the compatibility of components. For example, the voltage of the electric motor should correspond to the voltage of your battery (12, 24 or 36 volts). It is also important to consider the carrying capacity of the boat: overloading the boat with additional equipment reduces stability and safety.
⚠️ Warning: Installation of heavy equipment (batteries, winches) should be carried out strictly in the center of the diametrical plane of the boat or symmetrically, so as not to disturb the trim and roll of the boat.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Which battery is better for a boat: AGM or Lithium?
The choice depends on budget and frequency of use. Lithium batteries (LiFePO4) are lighter, have more charge cycles and give off full capacity, but they are much more expensive and require a special charger. AGM batteries are the middle ground: they are safer than conventional acid batteries, do not require maintenance and are moderately expensive, but they are heavier than lithium.
Do I need to register the echoer in GIMS?
No, navigation and fishing equipment such as sonars, cartplotters and radars are not structural elements of the vessel and are not subject to registration with the GIMS. Only the boat itself must be registered if its weight with the engine exceeds 200 kg (or 100 hp in engine power, depending on current regulations).
How to protect electronics from moisture and salt?
Use only equipment with IPX7 or higher moisture protection. After every fishing, especially in salt water, wipe the appliances with fresh water and dry. For additional protection of contacts, you can use special spray preservatives for electronics.
Can I use a car battery on a boat?
It is strongly recommended not to use a car starter battery as a traction battery for an electric motor. It is designed for short-term high current return and will quickly fail at deep discharge.