Adding A Livewell To Your Aluminum Boat: A Step-By-Step Guide

Adding a livewell to an aluminium boat is a great way to keep your catch alive and healthy while out on the water. A livewell is a dedicated storage compartment designed to maintain the health and vitality of live fish, and can be essential for anglers, whether recreational or competitive. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of having a livewell, the different types of livewells available, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to install and maintain one in your aluminium boat. We will also explore the key features to consider when choosing a livewell, such as aeration, filtration, and water circulation. So, whether you're a fishing enthusiast or a first-time boat owner, stay tuned to learn how to add a livewell to your aluminium boat!

Livewell maintenance

Livewells are an essential feature for anglers, as they provide a controlled environment to keep caught fish alive while out on the water. However, they can quickly become dirty, with bacteria, algae, fish slime, and fish waste building up over time, which can harm your catch. Therefore, regular and thorough cleaning is necessary to prevent fish care issues and maintain the health and vitality of your fish. Here are some detailed instructions for livewell maintenance:

Cleaning the Livewell

• Remove the valve screens at the bottom of the livewell to get rid of old algae and fish waste.
• Set the livewell actuator to "closed" or "recirc".
• Plug in the livewell and fill it with fresh water, about 3/4 of the way full.
• Add one gallon of distilled white vinegar to the water to help descale the pumps and improve their efficiency.
• Pour in a 32-ounce bottle of hydrogen peroxide to clean the old algae, fish waste, and slime coating out of the lines.
• Turn on the aerators and let them run continuously for 30 minutes.
• Drain the livewell completely and then refill it with fresh water.
• Run the aerators with fresh water for another 30 minutes to flush out any residual vinegar and hydrogen peroxide.
• Drain the livewell again and leave the livewell lids open until they are completely dry.

Other Maintenance Tips

• Ensure your pumps and lines are running at full capacity to keep your fish alive and healthy.
• Maintain proper oxygen levels in the water through aeration systems, as this is crucial for keeping fish alive and stress-free.
• Utilize filtration systems to remove waste and impurities, ensuring clean and safe water conditions.
• Regularly renew the water using an efficient drainage system to maintain an optimal environment for your fish.
• Choose a livewell made of lightweight and durable materials, such as aluminum, which is easy to transport and resists corrosion.

Livewell cleaning

• If there is an accumulation of debris such as fish scales, leaves, or sand at the bottom of your livewell, let the well dry completely, then use a shop vacuum to remove it. This step ensures that the debris doesn't get flushed into the pumps.
• Remove the drain screens from the bottom of the well by squeezing the perimeter of the plastic screen to disengage the retaining tabs. If they are threaded, simply turn them out by hand. Leave them in the bottom of the well to soak in the cleaning solution.
• Set the livewell control to "recirculate" or plug the drain. Pour a solution of 32 ounces of hydrogen peroxide to a gallon of vinegar directly into the well. Then, use a hose to fill the well with water just below the overflow drain. The vinegar dissolves the scale, and the peroxide attacks algae and bacteria.
• Turn on the livewell aerators and let them run for 10 to 15 minutes to agitate the water and solution, ensuring it flows throughout the system.
• After 30 minutes, scrub off any stubborn areas with a brush. Then, drain the livewell of the dirty solution and water. For tough stains, scrub them with a paste made of water and baking soda.
• After draining, set the control back to "recirculate" and fill the well with clear water. Run the aerators for another 10 to 15 minutes to flush out the system. When 30 minutes are up, drain the well completely.
• Use paper towels to wipe any residue left on the bottom and sides of the well, then replace the drain screens, which should now be clean. Leave the livewell lids open to let the well dry completely.

Alternatively, you can use a livewell cleaning product like Fishlife Livewell Cleaner, a spray formula that removes organic matter, fish waste, and biofilms from livewells. It is biodegradable, phosphate-free, and non-hazardous. Simply spray it on, scrub the sides and bottom, add some water, recirculate, and then drain and rinse. You can also use Simple Green, a non-toxic cleaner, or a bleach solution (1/4 cup of bleach to 20 gallons of water) to clean your livewell, followed by a thorough rinsing.

Livewell placement

Firstly, it is important to choose a location that is easily accessible and centred, with enough space to accommodate the livewell's dimensions. The weight distribution of the boat will be affected by the livewell's placement, so it is advisable to position it as low as possible to maintain the boat's stability.

In some cases, boat owners opt to extend the front deck to accommodate the livewell, as seen in the example of a boat owner who chose to place their livewell between the second and third benches. This approach ensures the livewell does not interfere with other features of the boat while maintaining accessibility.

Another factor to consider is the proximity to a power source. Livewells require aeration and circulation systems, so placing the livewell near a power source, such as a battery, simplifies the installation process and ensures the proper functioning of these systems.

Additionally, the livewell's placement should be convenient for its intended purpose. If it is primarily for bait, consider placing it closer to the fishing area for easy access. If it is for storing larger catches, ensure the livewell is positioned to minimise movement of fish, reducing the risk of injury and maintaining water quality.

Lastly, consider the drainage system and ensure the livewell is installed with the necessary plumbing to allow for efficient water renewal and maintenance.

Livewell pumps

Types of Livewell Pumps

• Aerator Pumps: These pumps focus on aerating the water in the livewell, ensuring sufficient oxygen levels to keep the fish stress-free.
• Circulation Pumps: Circulation pumps maintain a constant flow of water in the livewell, preventing fish from becoming lethargic or injured by bumping into walls.
• Dual-Purpose Pumps: Some pumps serve both aeration and circulation purposes, providing a dual pumping system with a filling pump for fresh water and a recirculating or aeration pump.

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Livewell Pump

When selecting a livewell pump, there are several important factors to keep in mind:

• Capacity: It is recommended to choose a pump that can replace the livewell water at least every 10 minutes, or six times per hour. For example, for a 100-gallon livewell, you would need a pump with a capacity of 600 gallons per hour.
• Mounting: Livewell pumps should be mounted below the waterline to ensure proper function and to avoid issues with self-priming.
• Intake Strainer: Installing an intake strainer through the hull helps keep debris and other unwanted materials out of the pump, maintaining its efficiency.
• Seacock: If your boat uses a thru-hull water intake, it is essential to install a seacock. This safety feature allows you to quickly shut down a leak if one occurs.
• Valve Downstream: Placing a ball valve downstream of the pump gives you the flexibility to adjust the water delivery volume as needed.

Livewell Pump Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your livewell pump is crucial to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Clean your livewell frequently to prevent clogging of the drain and aerator, which can hinder water circulation and oxygenation.
• Keep the flow of water constant to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your catch.
• Consult the pump's user manual or seek advice from a marine specialist for specific maintenance instructions and recommendations.

Examples of Livewell Pumps

Some popular livewell pumps on the market include:

• Rule FC Tournament Series Livewell Pump: This pump features a removable motor cartridge and is designed for livewell and baitwell applications.
• Attwood Tsunami Recirc Aerator Kit: With a capacity of 500 GPH, this kit includes an aerator spray head and a stainless steel strainer to keep your livewell water oxygenated and debris-free.
• Johnson Pumps 48903 1000 GPH Aerator/Livewell Pump: This pump offers a high flow rate, ensuring efficient water circulation and aeration in your livewell.
• Rule Marine Tournament Series Livewell Pump: Rule is known for its powerful and reliable livewell pumps, and this particular model is designed for tournament fishing boats.
• SEAFLO 12V 1100GPH Straight Livewell/Baitwell Pump: This SEAFLO pump offers a straight design and a capacity of 1100 GPH, making it suitable for both livewell and baitwell applications.

These are just a few examples of the wide range of livewell pumps available on the market. When choosing a pump, be sure to consider your specific needs, the size of your livewell, and the features that are most important to you.

Livewell plumbing

Key Components and Features:

• Aeration: Aeration systems supply oxygen to the water, which is crucial for keeping fish alive.
• Filtration: Filtration systems help remove waste and impurities, ensuring clean and safe water conditions.
• Adjustable Controls: Adjustable controls for water temperature, oxygen levels, and water flow allow customisation for different fish species.
• Water Circulation: Maintaining water circulation prevents fish from becoming lethargic or injured due to bumping into walls.
• Drainage: An efficient drainage system facilitates water renewal and maintains an optimal environment for the fish.
• Strainer: A strainer on the drain prevents maggots from crawling out of the livewell and into your boat, and it also helps keep fish and bait alive.
• Feeding Tube: A feeding tube is important for keeping different species of bait fresh.

Installation Instructions:

• Plugging the Bottom Drain: Most livewells have a bottom drain that must be plugged before pumping water.
• Understanding Valve Locations: Know where each valve is located. The arrow on each fitting points toward the stern of the livewell.
• Connections: A large black hose connects to the valve. In addition to a garden hose, there are standpipes and through-hull fittings to handle overflow.
• Water Flow: A good flow of water is critical for the survival of the fish. Insufficient or too strong a flow can result in the death of the fish.
• Baitwatch Alarm: Consider purchasing a Baitwatch alarm to monitor the water level and prevent losing your bait due to a drop in water level.
• Customisation: Livewells can be customised to meet specific needs, such as fishing in freshwater or saltwater.

Frequently asked questions