Binoculars
Marine binoculars are built to withstand harsh conditions, while also providing superior optics for super-bright or dim conditions. Marine binoculars are also waterproof and immune to fogging. The two numbers to remember refer to power (magnification) increased by (expressed by in the form of an x) the size of the lens objective–7×42 or 8×50 are typical sizes for marine binoculars, for instance. Certain models come with the ability to rangefinder or compass. Some of the most well-known brands include Steiner, Swarovski, Zeiss, Bushnell, Nikon, Pentax, and West Marine, as well as others.
GPS/Fish Finder
Electronics for boating anglers come standard with GPS and radar/fish-finder technology that can help anglers not only navigate but also to locate habitats for fish, or to see the screen view of the fish swimming underwater. A new item for 2022 from Simrad includes the NSX chart-plotter and fishfinder, an advanced electronics console.
Motion Sickness Products
With the waves and wind, and constant motion aboard boats, it’s almost inevitable that someone who is on the boat will experience motion sickness. Stock wearable wristbands that use a type of acupressure to help quell motion-sickness-induced nausea, or stock vertigo-relief pills or Dramamine. Pack them in drawers with stainless steel drawer slides to make sure they stay dry.
First Aid Kit
A variety of mishaps can happen on a boat. From falling on a slippery deck and opening an injury, to having an unintentional fish hook stuck in your skin, to slicing your skin off the fishing line or dock line. You should have a kit with dressings and bandages, antibacterial ointment, and antiseptic wipes, among others. Assist with any minor medical requirements on board to ensure a safe emergency trip to shore.
Paddle
People-power can be utilized when you’re maneuvering towards an edging slip for docking, or holding your boat steady and watching your mooring line in the event of engine failure. A paddle acts as propulsion insurance. Certain paddles are telescoping and have a hooked handle so that the paddle is able to double-duty as an anchor for boats.
Cut Resistant Gloves
Armor for your hands is smart. Find some gloves that protect your hands for use when you’re handling an instrument, such as a fishing hook or even a metal anchor (which might be sharp with edges).
Boat Grill
It’s what’s more satisfying than cooking up your catch from fishing or throwing some shrimp over the barbecue while you’re on the boat? Take a look at a grill that is mounted on a rail or on legs placed on the boat deck. You can use gas or charcoal and you’ll be all set.
Telescopic Boat Hook
When you’re enjoying your floating paradise, you’ll often have to reach out and tie something by dragging it overboard, or by using a dock or mooring ball– you can utilize it to unwind an untidy fishing line. This is the telescoping boathook, an essential onboard item.
Life Vests
The U.S. Coast Guard requires that personal flotation devices be available to all passengers and crew, including your pets; federal law requires that kids under 13 wear a life jacket whenever a boat is underway. There are cushions or vests which are Coast Guard-approved and suitable for the particular situation. For example, the Type III inflatable PDF (below left) is comfortable to wear (most are self-inflating when submerged, or the wearer pulls a cord to inflate) however, they’re not suitable for water-based sports like waterskiing or wakeboarding.
Water Bailing Containers/Safety Kits
This dual-purpose accessory will provide that you are safe on the water with a self-contained assortment of items for safety on the boat, including a waterproof flashlight, a marine rope that has a buoy attached, and a safety bell to notify you of distress. These are all contained in a bailing container. Simply take the contents out and use the pail to release water from your boat.