Saltwater Fishing Gear for Boats

If you’re someone who dreams about reeling in the big one, there’s no better place to do it than on the open ocean. Fishing in saltwater can be the most epic type of fishing, and it often results in some of the best fishing stories due to the size of the fish you can catch and the drama of trying to reel them in. From the trophy fish like marlin to fish that feed the family, like halibut and salmon, saltwater fishing is always a memorable experience.

At Beach Boulevard Motorsports, we share your passion for fishing and boating. We’ve assembled this brief guide to all the gear you need for your boat to get ready for a saltwater fishing trip. Stop by our Jacksonville, Florida location if you need parts, accessories, or service on your saltwater fishing boat.

Livewell/Baitwell

Out on the open ocean, it can get hot and dry, thanks to all the salt in the air. These are not ideal conditions for your living bait or your freshly-caught fish. Baitwells and livewells are essentially little tanks on your boat that can be filled with saltwater to help keep your bait or catch alive and fresh. The nicest livewells and baitwells actually have pumps to circulate the water.

Rod Holders

This may seem unnecessary if you’re someone who like to fish with your own rod, but having plenty of rod holders is key to reeling in a whopper. Not only will it allow you to set multiple rods at once (which greatly increases your chances of catching something) it also gives you a stable place to put your pole should your attention be moved elsewhere.

Marine Electronics

Far from the simple sonar arrangements of older days, the worlds of electronics and fishing have come together in numerous fascinating and helpful ways. Fishing boats today may be equipped with multiple types of sonar, underwater video cameras, GPS, and even touchscreen displays. If you prefer heading out when the fish least expect it, you can use a thermal/night vision camera. Don’t forget the multi-channel radio, too, so that you can inform your buddies in nearby boats of the exact moment you beat their fishing records.

Trolling motor

A trolling motor is a small, often battery-powered motor that can be mounted on the front or the rear of your boat in order to give precise steering control without turning on the main engines. These engines are much smaller and quieter than normal boat engines, and allow for quick adjustments or turns of course, so if the catch of the century threatens to cut the line by swimming under the boat, you can simply spin the boat and keep your catch on the line.

Cooler

Fishing isn’t fishing without a cold drink and something delicious to snack on. A cooler helps keep you stocked on whatever you like so you can stay out longer and fish more. Make sure to get one big enough and sufficiently well-insulated to allow you to keep ice frozen for many hours at a time so that you never have to face your lunch getting soggy.

Awning/Shade

The open ocean is a place of extremes, and the strength of the sun should never be underestimated. While you can lather up with sunscreen and find the perfect shades to protect your eyes from the water’s reflection, the best approach is to use a sun shade or awning. Some boats come with these standard edition, while others have fold-out shades to give shade when you need it and more space when you don’t. There are several models of boat awning that can be fixed to whatever boat you have to provide a little relief. The other benefit of awnings is that they protect you from the rain, too. The right awning can make the boating experience much more pleasant, no matter what nature throws at you.

If you’re looking for a new boat or gear to make your fishing expedition even better, stop by Beach Boulevard Powersports. Our team of knowledgeable boat enthusiasts will get you set up with everything you need. Our Jacksonville, Florida location is perfect for those coming from St. Augustine, Orange Park, or St. Johns, Florida