Table of Contents
Introduction – Bass Boat Accessories 101.
Bass boat sailing is a popular hobby and sport for many anglers. Having the right bass boat accessories can make your fishing trips more productive, comfortable, and safe. In this buyer’s guide, we will discuss the top 10 accessories every bass boat should have.
Bass boating accessories range from leaders in high quality marine technology and bass boat technologies to the greatest bass boat carpets available at local boat shops.
We’ll cover must-have gear like fish finders, trolling motors, rod holders, and storage options. We’ll also talk about creature comforts like seats and boat covers. Finally, we’ll highlight necessary safety add-ons like navigation lights, anchors, and emergency equipment.
Outfitting your bass boat properly allows you to focus on the fishing itself rather than struggling with an ill-equipped vessel. With these 10 accessories, you’ll be set up for success on every bass fishing adventure.
What are Bass Boat Accessories? Why do I Need to have Them for my Bass Boat?
Bass boat accessories refer to any additional gear, equipment, electronics, storage, comfort items, bass boat parts, or safety products that can be installed or added to your bass fishing boat.
Common bass boat accessories include:
- Fish finders. – Sonar systems that locate fish and structure below the boat.
- Trolling motors. – Small electric motors used for precise boat positioning.
- Rod holders. – Storage for fishing rods while underway or anchored.
- Livewells. – Onboard water tanks for keeping bass alive.
- Boat seats. – Comfortable chairs set atop pedestals.
- Storage bags/boxes. – For gear, tackle, tools, and other equipment.
- Boat covers. – Protective canvas covering when not in use.
- Anchors. – For holding position over fishing spots.
- Safety gear. – Life jackets, throwable devices, first aid kit, flares, etc.
Quality bass boat accessories customize and enhance your fishing rig for better performance. Investing in the right accessories makes time spent on the water more productive and enjoyable.
Why You Need the Best Bass Boat Accessories for Your Fishing Trips!
High-performance bass boats are incredible fishing machines. However, they must be properly outfitted with bass boat accessories to reach their full potential and handle the demands of serious angling.
Accessories serve many important functions, including:
- Locating fish. – Fish finding tools, GPS units, and mapping software pinpoint structure, bait, and bass location.
- Presenting lures. – Trolling motors, anchors, and drift socks allow anglers to precisely position baits.
- Landing bass. – Rod holders keep fishing rods organized and ready for hook sets.
- Keeping bass alive. – Proper livewell systems maintain healthy water quality and oxygen levels.
- Comfort and convenience. – Seating, storage, and shelters make long days on the water more enjoyable.
- Safety and reliability. – Running lights, bilge pumps, batteries, and other gear prevent emergencies.
The best bass fishing accessories are strategically designed for bass boats and tournament-style fishing. Investing in premium accessories tailored specifically for your rig ensures every system integrates seamlessly.
When optioned correctly, your bass boat becomes a finely tuned fishing machine ready to help you find and catch more bass.
Top 10 Bass Boat Accessories You Should Consider!
High-Quality Fish Finders (FFs).
A premium fish finder is perhaps the most important bass boat accessory for locating fish. Quality sonar gives anglers a window into the underwater world, displaying contours, structure, baitfish, and bass suspended below.
Advanced FFs show crisp views beneath the boat in near real-time. GPS mapping even overlays bottom detail onto area maps. Anglers can mark the location of brush piles, drop offs, channels, and other sweet spots for future reference.
Top-shelf FFs from brands like Humminbird, Garmin, and Lowrance offer large color displays, CHIRP sonar, broadband sounders, side and down imaging, mapping, and robust transducer offerings. Units equipped with network capabilities can integrate with other onboard electronics too.
Consider fish finder display size, transducer requirements, power output, cone angles, and overall ease of use when selecting the right model. And don’t forget the necessary mounting hardware and accessories for a complete installation.
Comfortable and Durable Seats.
Fishing from sun up to sun down demands comfortable seating. Bass boat seats keep anglers relaxed so they can focus on landing lunkers.
Many top bass boat seat manufacturers like Tempress, Attwood, Wise, and Bass Cat design seats specifically for bass boats. They often feature thicker foam, adjustable pedestals, reclining backs, flip-up bolsters, removable covers, and marine-grade materials resistant to UV rays and moisture.
Consider your budget, desired features, compatibility, and intended use when selecting bass boat seats. And don’t overlook the importance of matching fishing partner seating layouts and styles.
Upgrading old seats or replacing damaged ones renews comfort. And nothing beats the relief of propping your feet up on adjustable rod boxes after an intense day battling bass.
Reliable Trolling Motor.
Electric trolling motors rank near the top of most critical bass boat accessories lists – with good reason. Trolling motors enable anglers to move slowly and precisely position lures, a key factor for enticing finicky bass.
Bow-mounted trolling motors offer responsive steering and control from the front fishing deck. Transom mounts work well for pulling larger baits. Common shaft lengths span 45”-60” depending on boat size and fishing style.
Leading manufacturers like Minn Kota and MotorGuide produce reliable trolling motors with advanced features like GPS anchoring, spot lock, variable speed, and wireless foot control options. Other handy additions include tilt, extend, and stow functions for maneuvering around docks.
Choosing electric trolling motor power comes down to a balance of thrust requirements, battery capacity, and intended use. And don’t forget essentials like marine batteries, battery chargers, and emergency paddle clips.
Efficient Livewell System.
Livewell systems keep tournament-winning bass alive and healthy during days on the water. Dialing in proper livewell operation tops the list of critical – yet often overlooked – bass boat accessories.
Quality livewell components include:
- Insulated, light-blocking lids.
- Recirculating pumps.
- Fill/drain control systems.
- Aeration pumps and diffusers.
- Level sensors.
- Water treatment chemicals and additives.
- Proper installation combined with routine testing and adjustment ensures peak livewell performance. Keeping oxygen, temperature, and chemical levels in check minimizes bass stress. And that means more weigh-in contenders back at the ramp.
Quality Fishing Rod Holders
Fishing rod holders keep casting and trolling rods secure yet readily accessible. Bass can strike in an instant, so organizing rods reduces tangled messes and missed opportunities.
Common bass boat rod holder types include:
- Deck-mounted.
- Gimbal (tilt).
- Tube holders.
- Storage racks.
- Cup holders.
Position rod holders strategically along gunwales, casting platforms, and seating areas for no-hassle access. Flush deck mounts with twist-lock receptacles offer low profiles that won’t snag lines.
Many bass anglers fill all available space with rod holders – you can never have too many! Just beware overly intrusive placements that hinder boat traffic flow and mobility.
Weather-Resistant Boat Cover.
Quality boat covers protect your investment during storage and transit. The best bass boat covers fit snugly while allowing for rigging and trailering. They also breathe to prevent mold and mildew buildup.
Look for durable, water-repellent fabrics like polyester, canvas, or vinyl. And don’t forget reinforcements in high-wear areas. Features like integrated trailering straps, storage bags, and pole supports add convenience.
For the best fit, choose covers designed specifically for your make and model. Custom options with snap, zipper, or lace fasteners conform nicely to accessories and electronics. Just remember to use caution when covering trolling motors and antennas to prevent damage.
Keep your cover clean and ensure it gets plenty of airflow. With proper care, a quality boat cover protects showroom shine in the off season and works hard on the highway between tournaments.
Functional Anchor System.
Anchors play an important role for bass anglers by locking fishing spots over structure, current breaks, and other key holding areas. Because bites often come in flurries, an effective anchor system keeps you in the strike zone once fish are found.
Many bass boat manufacturers offer integrated anchor systems with lockable compartments built into the bow. Aftermarket solutions provide similar function. Just ensure adequate rope or chain scope to match fishing depth.
Serious anchors like the Minn Kota Talon securely grip into soft bottoms when vertically deployed. Talons feature wireless, multi-stage deployment that silently “sticks” boat position with the push of a button.
Always carry a backup anchor along with the necessary hardware – shackles, line, buoy balls, etc. Scope for depth, current strength, and bottom type when setting. And never anchor in hazardous conditions or restricted areas.
Effective Navigation Lights.
Effective navigation lights are among the best bass boat accessories. Running lights for bass boats serve a vital safety function. The U.S. Coast Guard requires properly working navigation lights on boats operating after dark. Lights indicate position, heading, size, and activity to other vessels.
Standard configurations include:
- Red/green bow lights. Indicate direction of travel.
- White stern light. Shows boat size from behind.
- All-around white anchor light. Marks a stationary vessel.
Quality LED lights draw little power while shining brightly. Most bass boats feature convenient dash-mounted controls alongside wiring harnesses and mounting hardware.
Keep your navigation lights in good working order and turned on when boating after sunset or before dawn. They greatly reduce collision risks in low light.
Versatile Rod and Gear Storage.
Efficient rod and gear storage helps bass anglers stay organized. Less clutter means more focus on attracting bites.
Storage solutions include the following bass boat accessories:
- Rod lockers.
- Storage compartments.
- Bag/box organizers.
- Cargo nets/bags.
- Tackle trays.
- Lure hanging systems.
- Rod racks and tubes.
Look for size-appropriate storage areas positioned for easy access. Moisture-resistant bags and boxes protect valuables. Straps and bungees keep essentials from shifting underway.
Aftermarket storage accessories range from simple PVC rod holders to intricate compartmentalized tackle management systems. Consider fishing style and on-the-water needs when selecting additions.
Getting gear organized makes time on the water more efficient. You’ll spend less time digging through messy piles and more time catching bass.
Essential Safety Equipment.
Carrying proper bass boat safety equipment could mean the difference between minor incident and major catastrophe in an emergency. Don’t overlook these critical accessories:
- Life Jackets. – Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices for all passengers. Easily accessible.
- Throwable Flotation. – Ring buoys, cushions, or life vests attached to toss lines. Two required.
- Fire Extinguishers. – Class B extinguishers in accessible locations. Check gauge monthly.
- Sound Device. – Horn, whistle, or bell for navigation warnings as needed.
- Visual Distress Signals. – Flares, beacons, signal flags, or mirrors used in emergencies.
- First Aid. – Stocked and readily available for minor injuries.
Also consider adding gear like multi-tools, flashlights, spare propellers, paddle, anchor line, water/food, and weather radio depending on conditions. Better safe than sorry!
Following Coast Guard and local regulations gives peace of mind. But don’t rely solely on minimum requirements – customize safety equipment for your specific needs.
Conclusion
The Must-Have Bass Boat Accessories for Your Ultimate Fishing Experience.
Outfitting your bass boat properly makes time on the water more productive and enjoyable. The 10 accessory categories covered in this buyer’s guide encompass necessities for top fishing performance.
Advanced electronics like high-end fish finding tools and trolling motors help anglers pinpoint bass locations more precisely. Rod holders, livewells, and storage keep essential gear protected yet readily accessible.
Comfort features like adjustable seats, storage bags, and boat covers allow anglers to focus energy on landing lunkers. And safety add-ons minimize risk so you can fish with confidence in any situation.
Assembling this collection of best-in-class bass boat accessories takes your rig to the next level. Integrating components into a cohesive system amplifies the effectiveness of your boat, tackle, and electronics.
Now get out on the water and fill your livewell! The only thing missing is a trophy bass on the end of your line.
