Most people don’t think about bilge pumps when they are trying to get their boats maintained. Having the best bilge pump for your boat is a necessity for keeping it safe. Why? Because the bilge pump is one of the most important items your boat needs when it comes to keeping things maintained the right way.

The main goal of a bilge pump is to clear out water from the bilge area of your boat. This is vital for ensuring that your boat can stay afloat. It is even more important in an emergency when you are trying to reduce the amount of water your boat might start to take on.

The good news is that many companies today are making bilge pumps for your use. These include pumps that can handle large amounts of weight at a time. But no matter what pump you need, you must look carefully at how well this can work and how it can be used. You must have the best bilge pump for your vessel so you will stay safe.

This listing of some of the top models on the market includes many choices that can fit in perfectly with your demands for keeping water out of your boat.

Our choice for the bilge pump is Seaflo Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Water Pump.  You will learn here about how individual automatic and manual pumps alike work and how well they can handle the water that gets into your boat. You can also see in this guide how well a hose port can work and what you can do to make the most of it.

Best Bilge Pump In 2021 | Comparisons

Bilge Pump	Size (GPH)	Output Hose Port (inches)
Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump	600, 800 or 1100	3/4     Today’s Price On Amazon
Seaflo Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Water Pump	750	3/4      Today’s Price On Amazon
Attwood Tsunami Manual Bilge pump	500, 800 and 1200	1         Today’s Price On Amazon
SeaSense Hand Bilge Pump Hose	n/a	1          Today’s Price On Amazon
Seattle Sports Paddlers Bilge Pump	n/a	1         Today’s Price On Amazon
Aurelio Tech 1100GPH Pump	1100	1          Today’s Price On Amazon
Amarine-made Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Water Pump	760	3/4      Today’s Price On Amazon
Rule 25D Submersible Bilge Pump	500	3/4     Today’s Price On Amazon
Rule 24 Submersible Bilge Pump	360	3/4      Today’s Price On Amazon

Features Of  Top 9 Bilge Pumps

Note: A majority of the products to review here are automatic pumps that handle large amounts of water at a time. There are a few manual options to review here for the sake of comparison. Be sure to review both types to identify what might be more appropriate for your particular situation. Here are our nine selected bilge pumps:

1. Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump
2. Seaflo Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Water Pump
3. Attwood Tsunami Manual Bilge Pump
4. SeaSense Hand Bilge Pump Hose
5. Seattle Sports Paddlers Bilge Pump
6. Aurelio Tech 1100GPH Pump
7. Amarine-made Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Water Pump
8. Rule 25D Submersible Bilge Pump
9. Rule 24 Submersible Bilge Pump

1. Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump

This first option for the bilge pump for use is a Shoreline Marine unit available in 600, 800, and 1100 GPH sizes. It uses a standard ¾-inch output hose port and can mount itself to most units. It has a simple installation setup as well, thus keeping your boat protected and safe from excess water that it might take in. You can use this with most hoses to move water out from the bottom part of your boat with ease provided it is installed appropriately and the water has a clear path out.

Pros

• Comes with mounting hardware for easy installation
• Simple design moves water well

Cons

• Check the quality of your boat to see what size is right for you
• Might be rather noisy

2. Seaflo Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Water Pump

This 750 GPM unit offers a float switch that is built into its body. You do not have to get a separate switch ready to make this work for your needs. The unit will not use any power until the water level in the bilge area starts to rise. A reed sensor system helps with identifying what is happening in the boat. The automatic functionality of this pump allows it to quickly take out the water that starts to build up within your boat, thus ensuring everything is protected carefully.

Pros

• Stainless steel body keeps it intact
• Seals are very tight
• Can run dry and will not burn out

Cons

• Might experience false alarms that cause it to start running at random
• Tough to fit onto older boats

3. Attwood Tsunami Manual Bilge Pump

This choice from Attwood works in one of three sizes. It uses a motor core that can be opened and replaced as needed. This is a basic model that should work with most types of hoses that you can attach to it.

Pros

• Slim design

  

• A larger hose port ensures water can move out fast
• Works with most types of 1-inch hoses
• The versatile layout works for many types of boats

Cons

• Easy for its parts to get caught up in each other at times
• You might need to get at least two just to make it work on your boat

4. SeaSense Hand Bilge Pump Hose

This choice is a little different from the other bilge pump products in that it is a hand-powered model. This would require you to insert a pole that would reach into the bilge area. As you use the plunger feature on the top, it will move water out through the flexible hose. This is ideal for use if you need a backup model. You do not have to drill anything into your boat either; you have to stick the pump and hose into the proper bilge region and then start pumping.

The unit comes with a tube cap that keeps the tube sealed while forcing the water out of your outlet. It also keeps the plunger shaft intact and secure. The key is to keep the water moving properly without being at risk of possibly damaging your plunger washer.

Pros

• Simple interface with easy to use the handle
• The hose is very flexible
• Comes in a variety of sizes

Cons

• Not intended for use as a primary pump
• Requires extensive effort for use

5. Seattle Sports Paddlers Bilge Pump

This is another handheld pump that is very slim. It is only 12 ounces in weight and has a 1.75-inch diameter. At 21 inches in length, it is portable and yet will fit into even the tightest bilge area. The rubber handle is also easy to grip on.

Pros

• Perfect for use on a kayak
• The neon yellow color makes it easily visible

Cons

• Water can quickly splash out when it gets out of the output

6. Aurelio Tech 1100GPH Automatic Bilge Pump

This next option among the best bilge pump products is an automatic unit from Aurelio Tech. This works at 1100 GPH and is made with an ABS body. This offers a waterproof body while also working with a series of terminals and wire ends that are fully sealed and secured to keep from being bogged down by the water.

This uses a universal mounting setup that should work on most boats. The compact body is also properly sealed to ensure that there are no vibrations produced by the pump or any excess sounds coming out of it.

Pros

• The secure body does not vibrate much
• Strong layout with universal ports is easy to secure around the bilge area

Cons

• Electric wires can get jumbled
• The outside body needs to be cleaned on occasion

7. Amarine-made Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Water Pump

This next option can work with 760 gallons per hour. It uses a float switch inside its body with no outside switch needed. A reed sensor system is added to ensure this works automatically. This identifies water in a spot and starts working when it notices an excess amount provided that the unit is installed in the right place in the bilge area.

The stainless steel shaft also works quickly and will stay intact for years to come. The stainless steel material will resist corrosion and rust.

Pros

• Automatic material works quickly when it notices water
• Simple electric wiring material is easy to control

Cons

• Not as strong as many other comparable options
• Difficult to clean out

8. Rule 25D Submersible Bilge Pump

You can get this Rule 25D pump in one of two forms. You can get it with a standard body that can handle a 12-volt battery or with a series of six-foot leads that make it easier for the unit to link up to that said battery.

The pump uses a ¾-inch hose output and operates silently. The sturdy casing ensures that the pump will not generate lots of vibrations while in use. This model can handle 500 GPM and is designed with smaller boats in mind. A stainless steel shaft is also added to keep the unit working fast while not rusting or suffering from lots of outside damage over time.

If you need a more powerful and higher capacity bilge pump, you can go through our complete review of Rule 2000 GPH bilge pump.

Pros

• The sturdy body keeps working for hours at a time
• Comes with a three-year warranty
• Handles various water conditions

Cons

• Intended for smaller vessels
• You would have to get the leads added separately or pay extra for a model that has them

9. Rule 24 Submersible Bilge Pump

The rule also makes this final choice for the bilge pump you can order. This model has a ¾-inch outlet and handles 360 GPH. It is made with smaller boats that will go through surfaces that are not overly rough.

Pros

• Works in most weather conditions
• Designed for all types of water

Cons

• Intended for smaller boats

Buying Guide For The Best Bilge Pump

As you look for a bilge pump, you will have to take a careful review of all the features that come with it. A good bilge pump should be easy to handle and not require too much effort when trying to make it operate well enough. Take a look at these points when finding one of the best bilge pumps you can utilize.

Flow Rate

The flow rate is the most important measurement to see when you are selecting the proper bilge pump. The flow rate refers to the amount of water that a pump can handle within a given period. This is measured based on the GPH or gallons per hour that the pump can handle.

You need a model that offers enough support for getting as much water out as possible based on the size of your boat. Refer to the FAQ section for additional information on what you can get out of your boat.

But even with the official GPH total being listed on the unit, you would have to watch for how well the GPH works based on the hose you are using. Think carefully about the diameter of the hose plus the height that you have to move the water out by from the pump to outside the boat when thinking about the flow rate. The odds are the actual GPH on your pump will be lower than whatever you might have read on the unit itself.

Manual or Automatic?

You can come across both manual and automatic bilge pumps when finding something suitable for your needs. A manual pump will move water quickly to get water out by using physical force. With this, you would have to pump something up and down to get the water in a spot out.

But an automatic pump can operate with a switch that keeps the water flowing out carefully and quickly. It will work automatically when it senses water. A good rule of thumb is to have a manual pump to go alongside an automatic pump as a backup if any electric system inside your boat starts to fail.

Nozzle (for manual pumps)

You would have to watch for how the nozzle on any manual pump you wish to use is organized. An appropriate nozzle that can spread out by a few feet is vital for getting the water you pump out as far away from the boat as possible. Not all manual pumps will come with hoses that can connect to a nozzle.

Nozzle (for an automatic pump)

The nozzle is another point for an automatic pump that can handle a larger amount of water at a time. You would have to find a stronger nozzle that can move out from the bilge pump and into the water outside of the boat. The nozzle would have to be rigid and might need to be bolted into a spot within the hull to keep it intact. The nozzle would have to handle the intense flow that may be generated as well.

Not all automatic bilge pumps will come with their own nozzles though. Fortunately, the output holes on pumps help you get an idea of what you would utilize.

Switch Features

The switch inside your automatic bilge pump is vital to its operation. A switch can include an automatic setup that identifies when water is in a spot. When the sensors identify water, the bilge pump will start working.

An electric switch may also help with identifying water. It can compare water with fuel or other items around the boat, thus ensuring it does not spill any fuel or other items that your boat needs.

All of these switches are valuable, but you would have to ensure your pumps are linked to your body’s electric system. This includes having the right connections and marine batteries intact.

You can also find some options that come with manual switches if desired. But while this can provide you with an extra bit of control over how the switch works, you must still look at how well the unit works in any case. A manual switch would link up to an area around the cabin, but it would need some extra wiring and connections for it to work to its best potential.

Wiring

The wiring on your bilge pump is vital to see. Bilge pumps will use an appropriate wiring setup based on the GPH total it can handle. A 16-gauge wire works when the pump can handle less than 800 gallons, for instance. A 14-gauge wire can work for something a little larger.

Any industrial pump that handles 4000 GPH should work with a 10-gauge wire. Such a wire will be sturdy enough to handle the intense electric current that must go through the get the pump to work.

Be aware of how the wiring works regardless of the model you have. Not all of the good quality bilge pumps come with their own electric wires. You might have to add your own wires to a pump through some connections. The wires that would be used regardless of the situation should be sturdy and capable of linking to a 12-volt battery or whatever the power source the pump requires might be. This is applicable specifically to automatic pumps.

You must especially watch for the wiring based on how well it can link to a 12-volt battery. The key is to allow the unit to keep on working without draining more power from the battery than what one might normally handle at a moment.

Output Hose

The output or discharge hose attached to your bilge pump is responsible for allowing the water to move out of the bilge area. The hose should be smooth as it goes from the pump to the hull. For a manual pump, this will work with a flexible body that carries water away from the main body of the boat if used well enough.

The output hose should have a good diameter. In most cases, the diameter will be around an inch in size or slightly less or greater than that number. Be aware of how well this hose can handle the water that you are aiming to pump out so you have something that works appropriately.

Motor Housing and Features

The motor inside your pump needs to come with a good body that can handle all the water that goes through it. Stainless steel materials are often used as they will not corrode or rust over time. These work well in many water conditions in particular.

But regardless of what the motor is made of, proper housing is needed to keep it safe. The housing should be capable of handling all the vibrations and stresses that will come onto the body of the motor. Be aware of how well this might work when seeing something that does well with your use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would the bilge area of the boat keep taking in all that water?

Although today’s boats are made to be sturdy without risking serious problems, you would still have to watch for how well the bilge area can handle water. The sealants and other features around a boat can only handle so much water because it can start to take it in. Having a bilge pump will help to get rid of all that extra water that gets into the way, thus keeping leakage and other serious threats from being an issue while using the boat.

The amount of water that the bilge area can take in overtime will vary based on the type of boat you have and how the conditions in an area might be. Sometimes the physical quality of the boat itself will influence how well the bilge area can handle all that water. Whatever the case might be, you would have to watch for how well the bilge operates so you know what to do with getting a quality pump added.

Why is a bilge pump so important to have in the first place?

You will require a bilge pump when you are looking to protect your boat. A bilge pump is needed for keeping water from flooding your engine and electric system.

The bilge is a small part of the boat that could be overwhelmed quickly if too much water gets into the boat. Having a bilge pump ensures that this area will stay protected while seeing that the electric features in your boat will not be at risk of harm.

How many bilge pumps do you need on your boat?

The number of bilge pumps you will require will vary based on the length of your boat. A boat that is around 20 to 25 feet in length or less will get by with two pumps. A boat up to 40 feet long could use a third pump. Boats that are longer than that will need at least four.

Adding extra pumps into your boat works to ensure that your boat will not lose its ability to pump out water. This can also work in cases where you have a large amount of water that has to get out of your boat and very little time to handle it with.

How much capacity should you have for your boat?

A good rule of thumb is to have a capacity of 500 GPM per pump for a boat up to 18 feet in length. Increase that total by about 200 or 300 GPM for every extra five feet that you add onto the boat. A 28-foot boat would need around 1200 GPM in power support to get a pump to work accordingly.

Can your bilge pump work with fresh and salt water alike?

A bilge pump will do well with all kinds of water. But you should at least look at how well the pump can manage each option and that the housing on your unit is strong enough to manage the rough sensations produced by salt water.

There is a risk that salt water might cause some kind of damage to your bilge pump if its motor and other features are exposed. Watch for how any wires or poles you use are impacted by salt water as well. The goal is to keep everything running smoothly even if you are in a salt water space where it might be tough to get the help you need from a pump.

Is a pump likely to fail?

The odds of a bilge pump failing are nowhere near as great as the odds of an electric system on your boat failing. The electrical system that the boat works with might fail after a while. As a result, you should use multiple pumps on your boat to reduce the risk of pumps not working due to the inability of your boat to pump water out of a spot.

You should still review the pumps in your boat regularly to see how well they are operating. Look to see if there are any obstructions or blockages inside your pumps. Make sure those issues are cleared out soon in the event you ever come across these threats.

If you ever go for a used boat check the bilge pump’s condition.

How much weight does a typical bilge pump weigh?

An average bilge pump should weigh about a pound or two. This is good enough to keep working without adding lots of weight onto the boat.

Where would one of these bilge pumps be installed for the best results?

The key to installing a bilge pump is to get it around the middle part of your ship’s hull. Get it added at some point below the waterline, but always make sure the hose you add onto your boat will stick out above the waterline.

Adding a second pump near the first one may work as well provided that one uses a separate hose and possibly allows water to come out from the other end of the boat. The key is to allow the water to move out gently without added problems over how it is flowing.

One good idea is to keep a pump in the middle part of the boat to at least add a bit of extra coverage around the entire boat. Doing so makes it easier for you to get the boat reviewed well enough.

What type of hose would work best for your bilge removal needs?

Watch for the hose that you would attach to your bilge pump. Sometimes a pump might come with its own accompanying hose, but it would be better for you to get a smoothbore hose added. This works as a sanitation hose. It is made with reinforced vinyl material and is much stronger than basic bilge pump hoses. The risk of the flow being blocked as water moves out will be minimal when this is used.

A metallic hose could also work provided it is bolted down inside the boat well enough. This could prove to be more work than what you can afford to handle though.

Are all bilge pumps submersible?

Just about all bilge pumps should be fully submersible. After all, they need to work accordingly to get all that water out. But you should still look at how well any pump you want to get is built and that it has a secure casing that will not wear out or come apart after a while.

How much power does a bilge pump need for it to work properly?

The bilge pump will require access to a 12-volt battery in most cases.

What does it cost to get a bilge pump?

You can find a bilge pump for about $20 to $50 on the market. Manual pumps typically cost less money to get. The more powerful models that can handle more water at a time will also cost more to get. Be aware of your pumping needs when figuring out your budget for getting your pumps ready for use.

Will you have to install any new holes around the body of your boat to get the pump to work well?

The odds are you would have to get a new hole on the side of the boat to get the water from the pump to move out of the boat. Sometimes a boat will already come with one of these holes.

This should guide you towards managing the installation process the right way. But even at that juncture, you might have to install a new hole if you need more than one pump or you find an existing hole is not working as well as it should.

Conclusion

The bilge is a spot that can take on water rather easily as you move along in the water. You have to get rid of the water in the bilge to not only keep the boat from dragging but to also protect any electric components inside of it. Having the best bilge pump available for your use is vital to your success while out on the water.

Be aware of what you will get out of the bilge pump you order. Look at how it works and how much capacity it can handle, not to mention how it will move water out from your boat. By using the right bilge pump, you will keep your boat safe and comfortable without putting it through more risks than what the vessel can handle. A recommendation for boating safety should not be neglected.

Good luck with your search for finding the appropriate bilge pump that you can order. You will be impressed with how well this can work if managed right.

Spending time out on the open water is very fun and fulfilling, but in some situations, it can also be very dangerous. It’s very important that every boating enthusiast be aware of the visual boating distress signals to be used in the event of an emergency, or that might indicate that a nearby boat is in trouble.

Being aware of these visual distress signals before heading out on the water will prepare you to take action and maybe even save someone’s life in the event of an emergency. Here are the most important boating distress signals to know, when they’re appropriate for use, and what you should do if you see them out on the water.

Boating Distress Signal Basics

There are a variety of different types of accepted boating distress signals. The accepted US distress signals are listed in the Coast Guard’s Navigation rule 37, which states that boats shall use accepted distress signals to communicate to others that they require assistance.

Most are dependent on the specific situation you’re in – for example, there are some signals that are only to be used at night, and some that are only for use on inland bodies of water. However, under no circumstances should you use a distress signal unless it’s actually an emergency. False alarms not only come with legal penalties, but they also can be very dangerous for other boaters.

In many places around the world, all boats are required to be equipped with the necessary materials to put out visual distress signals. In the US, boats must have distress signals when sailing in bodies of water more than two miles wide, or when sailing in international waters.

There are some exceptions for smaller boats during daytime hours. For example, in the US, boats under 16 feet long are only required to carry night signals, not day signals. Having the appropriate distress signals on hand is essential for sailing safety – you never know when an emergency could happen.

Pyrotechnic Distress Signals

Pyrotechnic distress signals are one of the most commonly known types of distress signals. This type of distress signal is so effective because it can help others find your boat quickly.

In the US, the three types of pyrotechnic flares used are parachute flares, orange smoke flares, and red flares. These flares can either be launched or handheld. It’s important that they are in good condition so that they can be used safely. In some cases, a gun fired at intervals of one minute are also acceptable distress signals.

You should always carry at least three pyrotechnic signals that can be used during the day and three that can be used at night. Any combination of the aforementioned pyrotechnic distress signals will work.

Generally, smoke flares are more effective during the day, while red flares and parachute flares are for use at night. In the event of an emergency, you’ll likely need to set off more than one flare to catch the attention of another boat.

Other Types of Distress Signals

There are a variety of other types of distress signals that can be used to indicate an emergency. One of the most common is distress signal flags, which can be put up to indicate to passing boats that you are in distress. This flag usually features a square and ball pattern, although there are a few types of approved flags for distress signals. These are crucial to have on hand because they are very easy to use.

Another type of distress signal is a continuous foghorn sound. This distress signal is often used in large bodies of water because the sound of a foghorn will carry very far and have a good chance of attracting other boats.

In inland waters, you can also use a flashing white light to indicate distress. The light should blink approximately 50 to 70 times per minute and should be very intense to be effective.

Another good distress signal that can be used in combination with other distress signals is water dye. This is released into the water around your boat and turns it a different color, making it easier for aerial search vehicles to find you.

Communicating your distress via radio or morse code is another way to indicate to nearby boats that you need help. Of course, in many cases, you may not be able to send out a radio signal, but if you can, this is one of the first things you should do.

You can send out a radio signal saying ‘mayday’ or an SOS via morse code. Some radio systems have a distress alarm built in. If all else fails, waving your arms to a passing boat is typically an accepted indication of distress.

Where to Buy And Store Your Distress Signals

Distress signals can be purchased from a variety of different retailers, such as sporting goods stores and online shops. It’s important when purchasing your distress signals to make sure they are Coast Guard approved if you are in the United States, or approved by wherever you will be sailing. It’s also important to make sure they are good quality and durable, as they will likely stay in your boat for a long time.

Your distress signals need to be stored onboard in a safe place that is still accessible. It should be far enough out of the way that others won’t accidentally move them or open them, but they should still be easy to reach in the event of an emergency. They should be stored in a hard box that is clearly labeled distress signals. Be sure to keep them far out of reach of any children that may be on board.

When To Use Distress Signals

There are many instances in which you may need to use boating distress signals. In general, any situation where you immediately need assistance from another boat will warrant the use of distress signals. It’s better to put out a distress signal right away as opposed to waiting until the problem has gotten worse because your chances of receiving help are greater.

Medical emergencies typically warrant the use of distress signals, as do technical issues with your boat. It’s important to set off distress signals in a place where others are most likely to hear or see them. For example, if you are setting off a flare, look for aircraft flying overhead and try to time your flare so they will see it. You will also want to use radar and look for other boats nearby to try and catch their attention.

It’s important to be very cautious when setting off pyrotechnic distress signals because they can be very dangerous if not used correctly. Since they are so hot, they should be shot off at an angle where they won’t ignite your boat or any other nearby boats.

It’s important to remember that each pyrotechnic signal can be used only once, so your timing is absolutely critical. Frequent boat users should be trained in the safest ways to set off a pyrotechnic signal, so you won’t have to waste time trying to figure out how to set off the flares and can instead deal with the situation at hand.

It’s also important to keep in mind the weather when setting off a distress signal. For example, smoke signals work very well on clear days with light to moderate winds, but if winds are heavy, the smoke will disperse faster and won’t catch the attention of other boats as effectively.

If it’s raining, you may also find that the visibility will make it difficult for others to see flares and flags. In these cases, audio distress signals such as a foghorn or a radio signal will be much more effective. For radio communications, we can use Marine VHF radios or marine stereos.

If you are inland, you may find that an intense flashing light will be most effective, because it can cut through fog or rain and catch the attention of other boats.

What To Do When You See A Distress Signal

It’s important to be prepared to help if you see another boat in distress. Familiarizing yourself with the accepted distress signals will not only help you in an emergency, but it can also help you save someone’s life. The first thing to do when you see another boat in distress is to alert the Coast Guard right away, making sure to give the exact location of the boat to speed up the rescue process.

You can also put out an alert on either CB channel 9 or VHF marine radio channel 16. These are used as distress channels. This is why a quality marine VHF radio is always important. Then, you should determine if you can assist the other boat. If you can help them by providing resources or transportation back to shore, you should. However, you should also take care not to put yourself and others on your boat in danger. Use your best judgment to help others.

Conclusion

Familiarizing yourself with distress signals is an important part of sailing, and definitely not one to be neglected. Every sailor, whether professional or recreational, should know how to keep themselves safe on the water with distress signals. It is an important boating safety tip from all experts.

Even though it’s unlikely you’ll experience an emergency, being prepared with a proper life jacket on is always helpful. If you are sailing and do not have good sailing knives for your own safety, you may face an ugly situation for not remembering a small thing. Please make a small checklist before you touch the water.

Is winter coming to an end where you live? Do you know how to drive a boat in rough water? Are you constantly thinking about taking out your boat to do some fishing or just enjoy the warmer weather? Thousands of boat enthusiasts will hit the water when the weather breaks, and many will run into rough waters and terrible storms, but only some will be prepared for it.

One of the first things boaters need is to be prepared for anything since Mother Nature is unpredictable and you could, unfortunately, find yourself and your boat in a situation you weren’t ready for. That’s why we must know how to drive a boat in rough water which will permit us to keep calm and to handle the situations.

By being prepared for the possibility of bad weather striking while you are out enjoying the water is one of the most important aspects of boating, safety should be your first priority. The following tips can help you navigate your boat in rough waters, allowing for good memories as opposed to bad ones.

Safety First and Proper Supplies

Always be prepared for the inevitable. Be sure you have a plan in case of an emergency. Any boat captain can tell you that having an emergency float plan can be a lifesaver.

Once you create your float plan, let anyone else that is going to be on the boat with you understand its importance and understand what part they might play in getting through rougher times.

Also make sure that everyone on the boat knows where the emergency supplies like float rings, life jackets, first aid kits, emergency lights, food, and other items are located.

Along with an emergency plan and emergency supplies, always keep on hand and in the boat a few other items such as satellite radar, a GPS unit, VHF-FM Marine Radio, navigational charts, and a hand-held compass in case you get stuck in a storm and loose electrical power.

Also bring extra fuel along, because if you run into a storm, it can eat your fuel supply up leaving you stranded.

Understand the Weather

It’s not unusual for professional boaters to check the weather forecast every half hour or more because as mentioned before Mother Nature is unpredictable and a force to be reckoned with. The National Weather Service will announce marine warnings if the threat is out there.

By understanding the language of the NWS, you will know what to look and listen for. Marine wind warnings are issued in knots and nautical mph instead of the regular mph that everyone understands. The following marine warnings that every water enthusiast should learn.

Mild or Light winds are 1-14 knots=1-16 mph

Breezy or Moderate winds are 15-19 knots=17-22 mph

*Small craft warnings occur when winds are mild, light, moderate, and strong.

Gusting or Strong winds are 20-33 knots=24-37 mph

*Gale warnings occur when winds could strengthen to 34-47 knots

Storms wind are 48-63 knots=55-73 mph

*Storm warnings occur when winds could strengthen to 48-63 knots

Be sure to listen to the weather before and during your trip, and keep alert to changing weather patterns.

Know Your Craft/Know Your Distress Signals

Be certain you know the ins and outs of your boat or craft. Although they are created for the same reason, no two boats or crafts handle the same. So knowing how your boat handles in different situations is a top priority before heading out onto open waters.

While avoiding rougher waters is your best course of action, it isn’t always possible. So knowing how to navigate safely through them is no easy task, but can be learned with trial and error.

Novice boaters that are not prepared by the tips provided, will have a harder time even knowing how to handle rougher currents. Veteran boaters that understand will have an easier time making it through rough waters.

Just because one storm passed you over, doesn’t mean that another one will be so gracious, so you want to get yourself to safety or your systems back up as soon as you can if they have gone out. Using the distress signals that you’ve put in place can be the difference between safety and peril.

Techniques To Drive A Boat In Rough Water

We should know the proper techniques to learn how to drive a boat in rough water. These old techniques are well proved and valid for rough waters of different situations. Let’s get to the points…

Reduce your Speed

Should you find yourself out in the middle of an ocean or any large body of water and the waves are becoming rougher, slow your speed. The first thing that inexperienced boaters want to do is speed up to outrun the oncoming storm, this almost never works and can end in unthinkable circumstances.

You will need to fight the urge to speed up, instead you’ll need to slow your boat down. When you reduce your speed, keep an eye out for other water lovers, boats, water skis, and any debris that might be floating nearby, you want to avoid both to lessen the damage you may obtain. By reducing your speed, you will be able to navigate much safer than at higher speeds.

Ride the Waves

Sometimes by slowing down and idling, a storm can just pass you by, but not always. Therefore, if you find yourself heading into treacherous waves, do not take them on head-on. By running your bow straight into the waves, you could capsize, lose power, and damage your only way home.

Another thing to remember is not to ride parallel to the waves because the same circumstances could occur. Instead of heading straight into the waves, position your bow at a 45-degree angle when heading into the waves. You want to be driving slow enough to ride the waves instead of going through them.

Try to keep your boat on top of the waves, and you’ll have a much better chance of getting through the storm unscathed. You can also use a zigzag pattern to navigate through rougher waves, allowing, again for your bow to stay atop the waves instead of straight into them.

If zigzagging doesn’t help you in making progress, keep your boat headed into the wind, but slow and adjust your speed this way you aren’t causing yourself to have any headway, at least until the rougher waters subside some.

Bailing Out Water and Dropping Anchor

When you are navigating through a storm and rough waters, you may notice that your boat is actually taking on water over the bow and along the sides. If your boat has a bilge, be sure to pump it out with a bilge pump, so that you can stay in higher water.

If you don’t have a bilge, make sure you have something to manually remove the water with and if you have a passenger in the boat this should be one of their jobs in order to keep afloat.

When navigating at reduced speeds in rough water and your engine stops, immediately you should be dropping anchor from the bow. You do not want the waves to push you into unknown territory, especially if you have no power and your navigational systems are not working. With a dead craft, only drop the anchor from the front of the boat, never the back.

Being prepared and knowledgeable can be your best friend. All of these tips can help various water enthusiasts to be ready for the inevitable. Even those individuals that enjoy the sport of Whitewater rafting can benefit from learning these safety tips or refreshing their minds with them.

Granted, they are diving headfirst into rough waters voluntarily, safety should still be the first thing on their minds before beginning their adventure.

Most whitewater rafters know the dangers of their hobby and understand the dangers of rougher waters because they have prepared for the inevitable and enjoy the thrill of tackling the rapids. They know what they are getting into, and have learned the proper techniques and safety aspects.

Most whitewater rafter enthusiasts know the ups and downs of the sport, but there are many that are new to the adventure and can benefit from the following information.

White Water Rafting

As mentioned before, all water enthusiasts can benefit from learning the basic rules of safety. It goes without saying that some of the tips for boating in rough waters may not apply to whitewater rafting, but safety should still be a priority even for an adrenaline rush like whitewater rafting.

Before heading out on the waters, be sure to have the following supplies on hand and be sure they are used properly. Most professional rafting outfitters will have most of this gear on hand for your use as part of their rafting packages but check with them first.

Always find a professional outfitter that has guides that are familiar with the sport and the area that you will be rafting in.

*A Life Jacket or Personal Flotation Device–when wearing a life jacket make sure you wear it correctly. All buckles should be buckled, and all straps should be strapped.

You’ll want to make sure you wear it loose enough for movement, but not loose enough it does you no good and falls off or can be pulled up over your head. Have your professional outfitter fit the jacket for you; they will not mind.

*Wear the Protective Gear–protective gear is the helmet that is usually supplied by the outfitter you chose for your trip.

*Wear the Proper Clothing–this can depend on the time of year you are going on your trip. Many times in the spring the water can still be a little cold so wearing a wetsuit, a splash jacket, and river/water shoes can be much more comfortable for you.

If summer is your season of choice for whitewater rafting then quick-dry, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses with UV protection will make your trip that much better.

Other Tips to Follow

Hold the paddle properly–with one hand cover the ‘T’ end of the paddle, the other hand should be positioned at the base of the paddle on the shaft. This will give you the control you need to navigate. If you are unsure, ask your guide for the correct technique for holding the paddle.

Stay inside the boat–one of the most dangerous parts of whitewater rafting can happen if you are on the outside of the boat. The rapids can sweep you away in an instant, depending on where you are.

Ask your guide for the proper way to keep yourself inside the raft should it hit a rock. They will give you specific instructions at the beginning of your trip.

Learn the proper swimming techniques–there are several resources you can check out before your trip in order to learn the proper swimming techniques in the event that you fall out of your raft and end up floating down the river. Asking your guide about this at the beginning of your journey is also a good idea.

Learn the commands–just like with boating, there are some commands and language that you should learn when whitewater rafting. Your guide or instructor will explain them all to you at the beginning before heading out into the water, be sure to listen and understand them, then you can be prepared for your next whitewater rafting trip.

Conclusion

Do NOT Panic! Now you know how to drive a boat in rough water. Be confident and never, ever panic when in a bad situation. This applies to boating in rough waters, whitewater rafting, and life in general. Keeping a cool head and knowing how to control a situation can be the difference between life and death–literally.

When you have your boat to get you from Point A to Point B when it is traveling on lakes, it makes perfect sense to make sure that you know how to mount a trolling motor properly and in the right place, Of course, rigging your very own mounting process doesn’t have to be a confusing process.

In fact, it can be a very simple process.

When you are able to place this mechanism correctly, you are able to fish for the right fish from bass, panfish, and other types of fish that you can get your hands on when it comes to fishing from that position.

Like what we already stated beforehand, it is an easy process to start. There are plenty of products that you can use to get started right away with a flawless installation.

When you are trailing your fishing boat around the lake, you need to install it on your boat. The real question is how you decide to go through with the installation. It is up to you and your boat.

Some models will make it a requirement for you to install a reliable tool that uses a pushing action while others would want you to use a pulling action, instead.

There are a few things that you have to worry about such as the model of your boat.

Some motors are placed flat on the surface of the boat with a vertical position with the motor that is in the water.

One thing that you have to keep a close eye on is that your mounting pad has to be horizontal to the water. It is basically a requirement so it’s imperative that you remember that.

With the fundamentals out of the way, it is more important to understand how you can create ways for your newfound tool can be properly installed on your boat.

What Tools Are You Going To Need?

When you are about to install your own new motor that trolls while attached to your boat, you need to have the tools necessary to get your new mechanism properly installed.

You are going to need a wrench kit. The secondary thing that you are going to need is a Phillips screwdriver. The third things are drills and bits.

Learn To Mount A Trolling Motor

Before we try to understand how to mount a trolling motor, let’s divide the process into parts. The first thing that you will have to decide is which side of the boat that you are looking to place the location of the motor on.

You can install it anywhere so don’t worry about where you are going to be installing it. The question that you have to truly ask is where and how are you planning on fishing.

Of course, there is a handy way to solve this. You just have to pay close attention to where you are controlling the boat itself. You can be careful about where you are navigating the boat.

The same can be applied in a vice versa switched reasons.

Removing Plate Panels and Assembly of The Motor

The next thing that you have to do is start removing the plate panels. To make sure that you are doing it the right way, you have to remove the securing screws. Most motors will show you the mounting holes.

Afterward, just before you are ready to determine where on the ship that you are ready to start installing your motor you will have to assemble the motor.

Different motors and different companies should have websites in place as instructional guides so that you are able to access the information needed so that you are able to access what processes that you will be needed to go through in order to get your motor assembled correctly.

After you are done putting together your motor, the second thing that you need to do is to attach the shaft. Following that, you need to be able to install the head assembly to the mount.

With the assembled pieces in place, you can place your motor that has been stowed wherever it is best to have it placed on your boat.

Positioning

Moving onward to the next step, you need to focus on positioning your motor shaft as close to the center as you can. One thing that you can take heed is that the propeller and the shaft could be off-center and it is best to avoid this.

To make sure that you are playing it safe, be sure that you will be using a position that allows for flushing. Usually, it is required in order for your machine to work properly.

Adding to that, you want to make sure that there is less than a 1-inch overhang.

Checking The Location of The Motor Head

When you have your machine in its proper stowed position, you are able to make sure that the location of the motorhead is safely sound and secure.

Beforehand, we were just talking about how you don’t want to have your boat deal with the overhang.

If you do have an overhang on a side of your boat, then you will definitely want to watch out for docks. You could end up hitting it and all the time that you spent on installing your motorhead properly can be destroyed.

Understandably, you don’t want your motorhead to be destroyed so it’s imperative that you make sure that you don’t have an overhang.

What can you do is use a straight-edge. By using this, your motor can be positioned in a way that your motorhead inside your boat.

More Installation

With the position of your mount, the next thing that you have to do is drill two holes into the bow.

This can become a two-man job so be smart and employ someone to hold the newly-installed mount to make sure that it stays in place as you are drilling holes to match the hole pattern in the mount.

After you are done drilling holes in the mount, the next thing that you have to secure the mount, using the holes that you just drilled in. In the Motorguide xi5 review, you will discover that some mounts are not as good as the motors.

After you drilled in your initial two holes, the next thing that you have to focus on is drilling the rest of the holes. It should be duly noted that you don’t have to worry about your mount shifting everywhere.

Another thing that you can do is remove the shaft with the motor head to make the drilling less complicated.

Ideally Speaking…

You should, in the best case scenario, have access to the underside of the bow in order to fasten the nuts to the bolts. You should also be able to secure the entire mechanism itself.

You may not always have that option, though.

When that happens, you will need to go get yourself some no-access bolting nuts.

This way, you should be able to secure the item securely even when you don’t have access to the underside.

Is Everything Secure?

The last thing that you have to do now and is to re-secure everything.

If everything is secure then you are ready to go.

The last portion is focused on how you are able to determine that for your boat.

Let’s Watch A Video Tutorial

There are many good trolling motor brands. Minn Kota, Newport Vessels, Goplus, Outsunny, Cloud Mountain trolling motors, and some more are well-known in this motor section.

Minn Kota is one of the best trolling motor brands. It has famous trolling motors like Minn Kota Endura C2, Terrova, riptide, and more. Here is a video about how to install Minn Kota Terrova, watch it and I’m sure that you will find it easy.

Aluminum Boats and Fiberglass Boats

Your boat weight is very important when you are determining which motor you need to get your hands on. A general rule to help keep things going in the right direction is that you need to have a minimum of 2 lbs of thrust for every 100 lbs.

So, depending on you if you have a 3,000 lb. boat, you need a 60lbs. of thrust.

Different boats have different material that determines the thrust of your newly-installed motor.

Aluminum boats tend to weigh less whereas fiberglass boats tend to weigh more.

Depending on what material your boat is made out of, you should be able to find the mechanism that can give you the thrust that you need.

The trolling motor for pontoon boat is normally a transom-mounted motor which is not very different when you want to mount that.

You should paint the exposed metal or fiberglass parts of the hull and deck with an aluminum boat paint or wax for fiberglass after installing the motor properly.

Conclusion

With everything about how to mount a trolling motor already said, it’s time to go out and sailing.

Our post on the best trolling motor battery can be simply handy for those who want to work with a trolling motor.