Must-Have Center Console Boat Accessories for a Perfect Day on the Water
Center console boats are perfect for 360 degrees of fishing action. While they offer plenty of room for fighting a big fish, you need the right boat center console accessories to enjoy a perfect day on the water. From the perfect safety accessories to the best saltwater fishing reels to the right navigation and electronics, here's a look at some of the must-have center console boat accessories to upgrade the quality of your trips.
Essential Safety Accessories
First Aid Kit
Every boat should keep a well-stocked first aid kit on board and you should know how to use it. Sterile bandages, disinfectants, instant cold packs, pain relievers, and other first aid supplies should be considered must-haves as the nearest pharmacy is probably very far away when you're out on the water.
Life Jackets & PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices)
PFDs are required by law and you should have one on board that is appropriately sized for every passenger. Have a dedicated storage compartment where you can keep all the PFDs accessible but out of the way.
VHF Radio or Satellite Phone
A VHF radio is necessary in case you need to send out a distress signal or help another boater in distress. It also lets you communicate with harbormasters for docking instructions when you're on an extended trip away from home. A satellite phone is a great backup to the VHF radio because you can hail the Coast Guard from anywhere if you have one.
Fire Extinguisher
The size of your boat determines the number and type of fire extinguishers that you are legally required to have on board. These should be easily accessible. If your boat is less than 26 feet in length, one approved extinguisher in the center console should be sufficient. With a boat between 26 and 40 feet in length, keep one in the center console and one in the aft. For a boat that's 40 to 65 feet in length, keep one in the center console and one each in the bow and aft.
Comfort and Convenience Accessories
Coolers and Refrigerators
It can get warm out on the water so you want to keep your drinks and snacks cool and fresh all day. Yeti's Tundra 45 is a great option if you want a large cooler (45 quarts). If you don't have enough space for one of those, Pelican's 30-quart Elite cooler is a good choice. If you have enough room and power, you may want to consider a marine mini fridge as well.
Seating Cushions or Bean Bags
Comfy seating is a must-have on your boat if you plan to take kids or larger groups with you. There are many durable and comfortable options when it comes to boating seat cushions. If your boat has room, large and small passengers will appreciate marine bean bag chairs.
T-Top Shade Canopy
It will take more than sunscreen to protect you from UV rays during a long day on the water. A T-Top Shade Canopy can provide quick and easy-to-assemble shade for a long day on the water. We sell several great T-Tops and attachments that can be assembled in minutes to provide all-day shade.
Marine Bluetooth Speakers
When you're not fishing, you may want to crank up the tunes, listen to a podcast, or catch up on the news you've missed while you're out on the water. A durable and waterproof set of marine Bluetooth speakers is just the ticket!
Fishing-Specific Accessories
Rod Holders and Racks
Gemlux carries Stainless Steel Fishing Rod Holders for the most serious deep-sea adventures. These are must-have accessories for serious anglers, and you'll also want racks for storing your best fishing reels for saltwater angling.
Bait and Tackle Storage
Depending on whether you're using live bait or not, you'll still need a convenient way to store your fishing tackle. A collapsible lure rack is one option, but any sort of compartment that allows easy access and storage will work well.
Livewell or Bait Tank
For the ultimate bait tank, you'll want to check out our revolutionary Gemlux Livewell system. With an adjustable feed and drain and optional standpipe, it eliminates much of the work that other live tanks require.
Navigation and Electronics Accessories
GPS System and Chartplotter
A GPS and Chartplotter make navigation safer and easier for boaters than ever before. They use a combination of GPS data and nautical charts so you'll always know exactly where you are. You can even locate details like buoys and marina facilities with a good Chartplotter. Another great choice is a fishfinder system to up your chances of a successful fishing trip every time.
Marine-Grade Phone Chargers and Mounts
We rely on our electronics so much these days that it just makes sense to keep at least one marine-grade phone charger on your center console boat. Keeping it charged means you can have another backup available for navigation and emergencies.
Must-Have Accessories for Center Console Boats
Outfitting your center console boat with the best accessories is part of the joy of the boating lifestyle. High-quality accessories are designed to last for years to come. Check out our many accessories at Gemlux to create your ideal boating set up - the more you customize your center console boat to your own experience, the more functionality and enjoyment you'll get from it!