Buying an inflatable watercraft is just the first step to fully exploiting the water. To turn the basic model into a functional boat that can withstand harsh operating conditions, you need a competent selection of additional equipment. The accessories market is now saturated with offers, and it is easy for a beginner to get confused in a sea of parts, on which not only comfort but also safety on the water depends.
Every detail matters, whether it's the way the cylinders are pumped or the way the vessel is fixed in place. PVC-boat-work This article will significantly extend the life of the product and facilitate the management, and in this article we will discuss the key equipment elements that should be in the arsenal of each inflatable boat owner.
Errors in component selection often lead to a loss of time, money, and even water emergencies, such as using the wrong glue to repair or an anchor that is too light can be fatal, so learning the specifications of each element should be approached with the utmost attention and understanding of the physics of the processes.
Anchorage and retention systems
Without a reliable anchor, fishing becomes chaotic wind drift. Inflatable boats, the weight of the anchor is critical: it should not be too heavy to damage the cylinders when lifting, but also massive enough to keep the vessel even when the wind is amplified. The optimal solution is folding structures such as a cat or a parachute anchor, which create resistance due to the shape, not just the mass.
Special attention should be paid to anchor rope. PVC boats It's very undesirable because of the risk of puncture, and it's better to use a wicker synthetic cord that doesn't absorb water and is easily knitted, and the rope should be at least three depths in the parking lot to ensure the right angle of traction.
⚠️ Warning: Never tie the anchor tile rigidly to the bow handle or the ditch without the possibility of a quick reset. If a sudden jerk wave, this can lead to the boat turning over or the mounting break off.
For fixing positions are also often used anchor-rope They allow you to adjust tension and change position quickly, and it's important to have a backup attachment in case the main cable breaks.
- 🪂 Anchor-parachute - ideal for flow and soft bottom, does not scratch cylinders.
- 🐙 The folding cat is a versatile option for rocky bottom, easy to transport.
- 🧶 Synthetic fala - does not rot, does not sink, is pleasant to the touch, unlike nylon.
The type of anchoring is directly dependent on the reservoir. On a lake with a muddy bottom, the parachute may not catch, whereas on a river with fast current it works flawlessly. Weigh all the pros and cons before buying.
Pressure equipment: the choice of a pump
Quality boat-pump The pressure is the key to seams' longevity and comfort, and the pressure is the pressure that makes the boat sluggish on the water, and the excess pressure in the heat threatens to break seams. Modern electric models make the preparation process much easier, but require a power source.
Mechanical foot pumps remain classics of the genre. They're reliable, they're not afraid of moisture and sand. However, using them requires physical effort, which may not be desirable before fishing. Electric analogues run from a car battery or built-in batteries, providing rapid pumping to working pressure.
When choosing an electric model, pay attention to the presence of a two-stage pumping system: the first stage quickly fills the volume with air, the second one achieves the necessary pressure. Engine power It should be the same size as your boat.
- ⚡ Two-stage system - accelerates the process by 2-3 times compared to the single-stage system.
- 🔋 Autonomy – the presence of a built-in battery allows you to pump the boat away from the car.
- 🌡️ Pressure control – a built-in pressure gauge will prevent pumping in hot weather.
Don't forget adapters. Universal kits are often included, but for specific valves (e.g., Bravo or AB Inflatables) separate adapters may be required. Check compatibility before getting on the water.
Engine setup and transom wheels
Installation boat-engine If you don't think the standard transom is tough enough, there are reinforced overhead options, and the transom wheels are critical to moving a motorized boat along the shore.
Trans wheels are attached to a cylinder or transom, and allow one person to easily transport a heavy boat. There are models with inflatable wheels (better permeability on sand) and solid (reliability, but worse cushioning).
⚠️ Attention: When installing wheels, make sure that the axis of the mount does not touch the cylinder at a sharp angle. Use protective gaskets made of dense fabric or rubber to avoid abrasion of PVC.
The engine also requires a fuel tank with a paging pear, the volume of the tank is chosen based on the range of the intended walks, and standard tanks with 12-25 liters provide a full-day range for engines up to 15 hp.
Nuances of engine installation
When installing the engine, make sure that the anti-cavitation stove is on the same level with the bottom of the boat or 2-3 cm lower. Too deep landing will create resistance, and a high one will lead to air capture and engine overheating.
The lower unit adjustment is another important thing: the right angle of tilt allows the boat to plane with minimal fuel consumption. Experiment with the position of the engine at each load.
Navigation and electronics on board
Modern fishing is unthinkable without sonar And it's a GPS machine, and it's a tool that can find the topography, the schools of fish, and then go back to the points that we've checked, and you need a PVC electronics bracket to put a boat in, because you can't drill cylinders.
The brackets are attached to the tray or the side with suction cups or clamps. It's important that the sonar sensor is submerged in water to the right depth, but not interfere with rowing. Wireless sonars thrown into water are becoming more popular due to the lack of wires.
| Type of device | Method of attachment | Nutrition | Appointment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stationary sonar | transom bracket | 12B ACB | Professional fishing |
| Wireless sonar | Floating float | Li-Ion battery | Mobile fishing |
| GPS-navigator | Velcro/Kronstein | Built-in/Powerbank | Navigation and tracks |
Electronics are often powered by sealed battery boxes, which protect the battery from splashes and prevent short circuits. Tightness A key parameter when choosing any electrical equipment for water.
Use lithium (LiFePO4) batteries instead of lead batteries, which are 3-4 times lighter, which is critical for the balance of a small boat, and are not afraid of deep discharge.
Repair kit and safety
Even the most expensive boat can get a puncture on a snag or a sharp stone. kit On board, it is a prerequisite. It includes PVC cloth lats, special glue (usually two-component polyurethane), degreaser and roller for rolling.
Repair requires a dry and clean surface. On a wet or dirty cylinder, the patch won't last long. Always carry rags and alcohol to prepare the surface. It's also useful to have a valve repair kit, as sand often gets in and breaks the tightness.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use superglue (cyanacrylate) to repair PVC! it makes the material tough and brittle, which will cause further rupture at the gluing site. Use only specialized PVC adhesives.
Safety features include life jackets by number of passengers and an anchor line with a buoy, the bright color of the buoy will allow you to quickly find an anchor if you have to abandon it, and do not neglect personal protective equipment.
- 🧪 Two-component glue - provides a monolithic connection that is resistant to loads.
- 🔦 A sealed lantern is necessary for night fishing or emergency situations.
- 🗣️ The whistle and the signal mirror are simple but effective means of attracting attention.
Regularly checking the condition of the remake before the season will help avoid problems: the glue has the property of drying out, and the lapels can peel off from time if stored incorrectly.
Comfort and additional accessories
Long stay on the water requires the creation of comfortable conditions. Siedenia Standard inflatable seats are often uncomfortable, so owners buy rigid rotary seats on platforms or suspended models with soft upholstery.
To protect against the sun and rain, awnings and canopies are used, and they are attached to arcs mounted in stringer pockets or special nests, and the awning not only saves from ultraviolet light, but also allows you to continue fishing in fine rain, keeping the gear dry.
☑️ Fishing fees
An important element of comfort is the protection of the bottom. rug Or water-resistant plywood/aluminium slate, which protects the bottom from abrasion on sand and rocks when pulled ashore, which significantly prolongs the life of the boat.
Also worth thinking about is the bags for transportation: Soft wig bags protect the cylinders from dirt and damage when transported in the trunk of a car; rigid containers are more reliable, but take up more space.
Investments in quality accessories (seats, bottom protection, awning) raise the class of the boat to the level of a comfortable boat, making the rest pleasant regardless of the weather.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What glue is best for repairing PVC boats?
Two-component polyurethane adhesives (such as Texacol, Kleyberg or specialized adhesives from boat manufacturers) are the best choice, creating an elastic, water-resistant seam that is not afraid of temperature changes and material deformations. Single-component adhesives are only suitable for minor cosmetic repairs.
Do I need to get air out of the boat in hot weather?
Yes, it is needed. When heated in the sun, the air inside the cylinders expands, and the pressure can rise to critical values, which will lead to rupture of the seams. In the heat, it is recommended to burn some of the air or periodically swim to the shore and check the elasticity of the cylinders, if necessary, releasing excess ones.
Is it possible to use a PVC boat in winter?
You can use it, but with caution. PVC material becomes hard and brittle in the cold. Any careless movement, impact on the ice or sharp bend can lead to cracks. For winter use, there are special frost-resistant models, but they also need to be protected from mechanical damage.
How to properly store a boat in the off-season?
The boat should be thoroughly washed, dried and folded in a free state (not tightly twisted), stored in a dry room at a temperature of -20 to +35 degrees Celsius, away from heating appliances and direct sunlight, it is advisable to spread and ventilate the product every six months.
What is the optimal weight for a 3-meter boat?
For a boat with a length of 3 meters (9-10 feet), the optimal is the engine with a capacity of 5-9.9 hp Motors up to 5 hp will provide confident planing with one fisherman, and 9.9 hp will allow you to bring two people with a load to plane. More powerful engines can overload the transom and disrupt the balancing.