Bass Boat Battery Storage: Secure And Safe Techniques

Bass boat battery storage is a crucial aspect of boat maintenance, especially during the off-season. Proper storage techniques ensure that your boat's batteries remain in good condition and extend their lifespan. This includes performing regular maintenance, such as watering and removing corrosion, as well as following a winterization checklist. The placement of batteries in a bass boat is also essential for balance and handling, with some anglers considering moving batteries forward for better weight distribution. Additionally, battery compartment trays provide extra storage space in the unused areas surrounding the batteries.

Battery charging and maintenance

Before Storage:

• Give your boat one last run and pay attention to any issues that require repairs or replacements.
• Clean the entire boat with soap and water, and clear out storage compartments.
• Drain all water from the engine, including the lower unit, to prevent corrosion during winter.
• Top off the fuel tank to avoid condensation build-up, and consider changing the lower unit oil.
• Add a marine fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank and run the engine for a few minutes to prevent the build-up of gum and varnish.
• Charge your batteries fully to ensure they survive the winter and can be easily recharged in the spring. A quality battery maintainer, such as the Digital 1200 OPTIMA Battery Charger, is recommended.
• Disconnect the negative cable and check the specific gravity or voltage with a hydrometer or voltmeter after a few hours.
• Disconnect the terminals to remove all electrical loads.
• Remove the batteries and store them in a cool, dry place where they won't freeze, such as a garage or storage facility.

During Storage:

• Ideally, trickle-charge your batteries or charge them monthly to prevent self-discharge and extend their lifespan.
• If you live in an area where batteries could freeze, store them in your home or a cool, dry location that won't freeze.
• Use a smart charger to ensure your batteries don't overcharge.
• Keep your batteries easily accessible to make charging more convenient.

Battery storage location

• Centre of Gravity: As mentioned in the forum discussion, the centre of gravity is crucial to the boat's handling and stability. Moving heavy batteries forward can affect how the boat rides over waves and its ability to lift the bow. Moving them too far forward can also cause the batteries to take a beating while the boat is on plane, potentially damaging the boat over time.
• Balance and Weight Distribution: Distributing the weight evenly is essential for the overall performance of the boat. Moving batteries to a more centred location can improve balance and handling, especially if the current setup has too much weight in the back.
• Boat Manufacturer's Recommendations: Boat manufacturers spend a significant amount of time determining the optimal weight distribution for their hull configurations. Deviating from their recommendations can affect the boat's performance and handling.
• Storage Space and Accessibility: Consider choosing a location that provides easy access to the batteries for maintenance and charging. Additionally, ensure there is enough space around the batteries for proper ventilation and to prevent them from being damaged during operation.
• Safety: Ensure that the battery storage location is secure and that the batteries are properly restrained to prevent them from moving or shifting during operation. This is especially important in rough waters or when encountering waves.

When selecting a battery storage location, it's crucial to consider the specific design and characteristics of your bass boat, as well as seeking advice from experts and other boat owners. Proper battery maintenance and care are also essential to ensure the longevity and performance of your batteries.

Battery freezing prevention

Bass boat batteries can freeze, so it's important to take steps to prevent this, especially during the winter months. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your bass boat batteries don't freeze:

Understand Your Battery Type

Firstly, it's crucial to know what type of battery you have. There are three main types of marine batteries: wet-cell, gel cell, and absorbed glass mat (AGM). Each type has different characteristics and requirements for care, especially during cold weather.

Keep the Battery Charged

Regardless of the type of battery, ensuring it is fully charged will help prevent freezing. A fully charged battery can withstand much colder temperatures than a partially discharged one. Before storing your bass boat for the winter, make sure the battery is fully charged.

Use a Trickle Charger

Consider using a trickle charger to maintain your battery's charge during the winter. These chargers provide a slow, constant charge that counteracts the natural energy loss due to cold weather. Modern trickle chargers often have smart technology that prevents overcharging and other unsafe operating conditions.

Disconnect the Battery

If possible, disconnect the battery from the boat's electrical system when not in use for extended periods. Even with the power switch turned off, some devices like radios or fish finders may still draw power and slowly discharge the battery.

Store the Battery Indoors

If you can remove the battery from the boat, it's best to store it indoors in a cool, dry place like a basement or workshop. This will help ensure the battery doesn't encounter freezing temperatures. Keep the battery on a shelf or a block of wood to avoid direct contact with the cold floor.

Regularly Check the Battery

Monitor the battery's charge throughout the winter. Every few weeks, check the battery and top up the charge if needed. If using a smart charger, it will automatically maintain the battery's charge, but it's still a good idea to keep an eye on it.

Winterize the Battery

Just like winterizing your boat motor, you should also prepare your battery for the cold. Inspect the battery case for any cracks or damage. Clean the battery with a cloth and a mixture of baking soda and water, paying attention to the terminals. Ensure the battery is fully charged and stored in a safe location.

By following these steps, you can effectively prevent your bass boat battery from freezing and maintain its performance for the next boating season.

Boat cleaning and drying

Cleaning your boat is essential for maintaining its appearance and functionality. It helps prevent water damage, mildew, corrosion, and other issues. Here are some detailed steps to ensure your boat is cleaned and dried properly:

Interior Cleaning

• Carpets: Remove any items in the way, then use a vacuum to remove loose dirt. Scrub the carpet with a stiff-bristle brush, soap, and water. For larger boats, use a wet vac to remove the dirty water. Speed-dry the carpet by running the air conditioning and/or fans.
• Fiberglass: Use a stiff-bristle brush, soap, and water to scrub away dirt and stains. For tough stains, use a small amount of bleach cleaner and rinse thoroughly. Apply a non-skid treatment, such as Star Brite Non-Skid Deck Wax, to protect the surface.
• Vinyl: Wash vinyl surfaces gently with soapy water and a soft cloth after each use. For stubborn stains, use a marine vinyl cleaner. Rinse and finish with a vinyl protectant.
• Cushions: Remove the cushion covers and wash them in cold water. Wash the foam with a mixture of baking soda and a vinegar-water solution. Set the cushions in a breezy spot to eliminate any remaining vinegar smell.
• Toilets: Clean the toilets as you would at home. To clean the lines, run a few cups of white vinegar through them once a month.

Exterior Cleaning

• Hull and Gel-coat Surfaces: Apply two layers of paste wax as a base coat each spring. Once a month, use liquid carnauba wax to make your boat sparkle. After each use, wash the hull with soap that contains liquid wax.
• Canvas: Clean the canvas monthly to prevent staining and dirt buildup. Hose it down, scrub it with a mild soap and a soft-bristle brush, then rinse. For a deeper clean, machine-wash the canvas with warm water, soap, and baking soda.
• Clear Canvas: Wash clear canvas with soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or microfiber cloth. Wipe the curtains with a squeegee to remove water droplets and prevent water spots.
• Engines: For outboard engines, apply a coat of wax to the cowl and exterior. Wash them with soap and water after each use. For inboard engines, clean the engine itself and wipe down any dirt or grime that builds up. Consult a professional for more detailed engine cleaning.
• Teak: Regularly scrub teak surfaces with soapy water. For deeper cleaning, use an acid-based teak cleaner, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Drying and Storage

• Air-dry your boat: Before covering or storing your boat, ensure it is completely dry. Open all lockers, hatches, and enclosed spaces to allow air circulation. Let the boat air-dry for up to 24 hours before covering.
• Cover your boat: Invest in a premium-quality, custom-fitted canvas cover to protect your boat from the elements when it's not in use. Ensure the cover fits snugly to prevent rainwater, leaves, and dirt from accumulating.
• Protect electronics: Use manufacturer-provided covers to protect helm electronics, such as MFDs, autopilot control heads, and sonar systems during storage.

Boat covering and storage

Covering and storing your boat properly is essential to protect it from harsh winter weather. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your boat is well-maintained and ready for the spring boating season:

Firstly, if you haven't done so already, it is recommended to take your boat out for one last run. Pay attention to any issues that may need addressing over the winter. Once you're back on dry land, scrub the entire boat with soap and water, and clear out storage compartments. Leave your boat to dry thoroughly, and then apply a coat of wax, polishing it evenly.

Next, it is important to drain all water from the engine, as moisture can cause corrosion during the winter. Pull the drain plug and ensure no water is left in the lower unit. If you are storing your boat outside, tilt the motor downwards to prevent rainwater from accumulating inside the prop hub.

To winterize the engine, top off the fuel tank to avoid condensation build-up. Consider changing the lower unit oil if you haven't done so in the last year or every 100 hours. Add a marine fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank to prevent gum and varnish build-up, and run the engine for a few minutes to distribute the stabilizer.

Now, let's talk about the batteries. Charge them one last time to reduce the risk of freezing during winter. Disconnect the negative cable and, after a few hours, check the specific gravity or voltage. Disconnect the terminals to remove all electrical loads, as electronics can slowly drain batteries, even when they're turned off. Remove the batteries and store them in a cool, dry place where they won't freeze. Ideally, choose a wooden surface in a garage or storage facility.

Finally, cover your boat. If possible, store it under a canopy or in a garage, and use a dehumidifier to keep moisture at bay. If you must store it outdoors, check on it regularly to remove any snow build-up.

Frequently asked questions