Essential Pontoon Boat Accessories for a Perfect Day on the Water
There's nothing worse than getting far out from shore for a relaxing day and realizing you forgot that one thing. Having a checklist of the best pontoon boat accessories ensures that this will never happen -- or at least won't happen as often! Some of the pontoon accessories we list below are necessary for safety and regulatory reasons while others are great to have for a perfect day on the water!
Comfortable Seating and Sun Protection
High-Quality Boat Seating
If you're spending long hours on the water, comfy boat seating is a necessity. The nice thing about pontoon boats is that they provide extra space for creative seating arrangements. Cushioned bench seats or sofas are an option in addition to ergonomic fishing chairs.
Bimini Tops and Sun Shades
Heat stroke and sunburn are two issues you have to contend with if you go boating on a sunny day. Having a way to protect your family and guests from the sun beating down is essential. Adjustable Bimini tops and fly shades from Gemlux will provide everyone some shade and protection from the sun's UV rays and will help keep you from overheating.
Safety Gear
Life Jackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
Life jackets and PFDs are a necessity any time you go out for a boating adventure. They are a legal requirement for every passenger under 16, and you must have at least one on board for every passenger. It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the different types of life jackets and throwable flotation devices. You might want to take different kinds based on whether you'll be boating in nearshore or offshore conditions.
First-Aid Kids
A fully stocked first-aid kit is another must-have for every boating trip. If you'll be going fishing, you'll probably be handling knives and sharp hooks. Be sure to keep essential items like bandages and antiseptics in your first aid kit. Seasickness remedies are another important thing to keep in your kit, just in case.
Fire Extinguishers and Safety Horns
Pontoon boats less than 26 feet in length must carry at least one marine fire extinguisher. A boat fire can be fast-moving and deadly, so a fire extinguisher is crucial for safety. A signaling device such as an air horn is also a necessity for signaling other boaters. The Coast Guard recommends a signaling device that is audible for at least a half-mile.
Fishing Equipment
Rod Holders
A long day of fishing is more enjoyable when you don't have to tend to your fishing rods at all times. With the stainless steel fishing rod holders that Gemlux provides, you'll be ready for any size of fish from a Bluegill to a Blue Marlin. Our rod cup holders are the perfect place to store your drink or your fishing rod when needed. We have durable and adjustable models of rod holders that can be installed on your pontoon boat for any fishing situation.
Tackle Storage
You have a lot of options when it comes to fishing tackle storage thanks to the additional space that a pontoon boat provides. You may want to go with a free-standing tackle box. For more storage space, consider one that is flush-mounted and tucked away. A tackle caddy is another option that can be taken on or off the boat as needed.
Fish Finders
For some people, simply going fishing is a reward in itself -- whether they catch anything or not. For everyone else, a fish finder is a must-have accessory. Fish finders work with pulsed sound waves that bounce off of objects underwater, such as fish. They take the guesswork out of finding where you will meet with the most success.
Entertainment and Comfort
Marine Audio Systems
Sometimes you just need to crank up the tunes when you're out on the water. A waterproof sound system that includes speakers, receivers, and boat amplifiers can help you enjoy the day even more. Bluetooth-enabled audio systems also make it easier to manage music selections and make announcements.
Coolers and Beverage Holders
Portable coolers are ideal for keeping drinks and snacks within reach throughout the day. It's important to stay hydrated when you're out on the water and keeping the drinks cool makes the day even more enjoyable. Sturdy beverage holders from Gemlux can be mounted on your pontoon boat in strategic locations.
Water Sports Gear
A tow rope and an inner tube is a way to ensure a full day of family fun on the water. Inflatable water toys, water skis, wakeboards, and other water sports gear are must-haves depending on your planned activities. Don't forget the life vests!
Navigation and Technology
GPS and Chart Plotters
Reliable navigation tools will help you get back home safely after a long day at sea. GPS and chart plotters from brands like Garmin and Navionics are easy to use when planning to get out there and back.
Marine Radios
VHF marine radios are not required by law on recreational boats less than 65 feet in length, but they are good to have just in case. A marine radio allows you to make distress calls, communicate with other boats and marinas, and check the weather forecast.
LED Lighting
LED lights are good pontoon accessories if you want to extend your adventure into the evening hours. LED lighting is more energy efficient than traditional boat lights. They also generate less heat, which makes them less of a fire hazard. Some LED lights are designed to help attract fish in the evening hours.
Enjoy That Perfect Day on the Water with Gemlux
These are just a few pontoon boat accessories ideas to help you enjoy every outing on the water to the fullest. Safety gear is legally required, but others are simply great to have for entertainment, comfort, fishing, and water sports. Be sure to explore our range of high-quality boat accessories at Gemlux to find everything you need.