Best Cranking Batteries For Bass Boats: Powering Your Fishing Trip

Bass boat owners need to know the basics of what they're buying when it comes to batteries. There are multiple kinds of marine batteries, each designed for different applications. The two main types are cranking batteries and deep cycle batteries. A cranking battery is designed to start your motor and release a larger amount of energy all at once. A deep cycle marine battery releases smaller amounts of energy more steadily and is more useful for powering your trolling motor. Cold cranking amps (CCA) and marine cranking amps (MCA) are the most important measurements to know for your starter battery. CCA measures the number of amps a battery can deliver over thirty seconds while maintaining a voltage of at least 7.2 at 0 degrees Celsius. MCA is the same measurement but at 32 degrees Celsius. Reserve capacity is also important, indicating how long a battery can sustain a constant power draw. When selecting a cranking battery for a bass boat, it is important to match the manufacturer's recommendations and consider the number of electronics you will be running.

Cold cranking amps (CCA) and marine cranking amps (MCA)

MCA, on the other hand, is measured at 32°F (0°C), which is the freezing temperature for water. MCA is specifically relevant for boats as it relates to batteries used for water-based activities like fishing and sailing. The distinction in temperature between MCA and CCA is due to the fact that boats typically are not operated in water temperatures below 32°F. It's worth noting that MCA amps are generally higher than CCA because batteries can produce more current at 32°F compared to 0°F.

When selecting a starting battery for your boat, it's essential to consult the engine manufacturer's guidelines for recommended CCA or MCA ratings. Choosing a battery with a rating that meets or exceeds these recommendations ensures reliable engine starting. If you plan to use your boat in colder climates, opt for a higher CCA rating. Conversely, if your boat is primarily used in warmer environments, the MCA rating will be a more suitable indicator of battery performance.

Additionally, it's crucial to consider other factors such as reserve capacity, which indicates the number of minutes a fully charged battery can deliver a constant current before its voltage drops below 10.5 volts. This metric is important for powering electrical accessories in case of engine or charging system failure. By taking into account factors such as engine requirements, climate, and reserve capacity, you can choose a battery that offers reliable performance and longevity for your bass boat.

Reserve capacity

The reserve capacity rating is calculated by measuring how long a fully charged 12V battery can run at 25 amps before its voltage drops to 10.5V. This is considered the point at which a lead-acid battery is "dead".

In practical terms, this means that a battery with a high reserve capacity can deliver power for an extended period, reducing the risk of unexpected dead batteries and failures. This is especially important for bass boats, where consistent energy is required for the boat's electronics.

When it comes to choosing a battery for a bass boat, it's important to consider both the cold cranking amps (CCA) and the reserve capacity rating. CCA measures the current a charged battery can deliver and sustain for 30 seconds at 0°F while maintaining a voltage of 7.2 volts. This determines the battery's ability to start an engine in cold conditions. On the other hand, reserve capacity indicates how long a battery can deliver power without relying on the vehicle's charging system.

When selecting a battery, it's also worth noting that lithium batteries tend to have a higher reserve capacity than lead-acid batteries. Lithium batteries can also be discharged to a deeper depth without causing significant harm. However, they are more expensive.

In summary, understanding the reserve capacity of a battery is crucial when choosing a battery for a bass boat, as it will determine how long the battery can power the boat's electronics before needing to be recharged or replaced.

Battery type: cranking vs deep cycle

When it comes to choosing the right marine battery for your bass boat, two main types are available in the market: cranking batteries and deep-cycle marine batteries. Each type has distinct features and serves different purposes, so it's essential to understand their differences to make an informed decision.

Cranking Batteries

Cranking batteries, also known as starter batteries, are designed to provide short and intense bursts of energy to start a boat's engine. They are crucial for getting your boat running by sending power to the engine when the ignition switch is activated. The design of a cranking battery typically includes multiple thin plates, which increase the surface area and facilitate the smooth and reliable starting of a marine vessel. While cranking batteries are excellent for engine ignition, they are not ideal for continuous discharge or "cyclic" use.

Deep-Cycle Marine Batteries

Deep-cycle marine batteries, on the other hand, are built for prolonged energy delivery at a steady rate. Once your boat's engine is started, these batteries provide the continuous and reliable power needed for trolling and operating electronics like sonar, GPS, and radios. Deep-cycle marine batteries have fewer but thicker plates, enabling them to deliver consistent power output over extended periods. One of their key advantages is that they can be completely drained and recharged frequently, which is not recommended for cranking batteries. Additionally, deep-cycle marine batteries are less prone to overheating due to their thicker plate construction.

Choosing the Right Battery

It is essential to recognize that cranking and deep-cycle batteries serve distinct purposes. While cranking batteries ensure your boat can start quickly, deep-cycle batteries are responsible for keeping your electronics running and your boat operating in any condition. Therefore, it is generally recommended to use two separate marine batteries to achieve optimal performance and minimize operating costs. However, dual-purpose batteries are also available, combining the functions of both cranking and deep-cycle batteries. These batteries can be a space-saving option for marine and recreational vehicles, but they may not always deliver the same level of performance as two dedicated batteries.

Battery manufacturer

When it comes to cranking batteries for bass boats, there are a variety of manufacturers to choose from, each offering batteries with different features and specifications. Here is an overview of some of the prominent battery manufacturers and their products:

Duracell

Duracell offers a marine battery with 1000 MCA (Marine Cranking Amps) and 182 Reserve Capacity. This battery is available at Auto Zone for around $100. It is a good option for those seeking an affordable and reliable cranking battery for their bass boat.

Interstate

Interstate is a well-known battery manufacturer that offers a range of marine batteries. The Interstate 27 battery, for example, has 1000 MCA and 800 CCA (Cold Cranking Amps). This battery is commonly found in bass boats and can be a suitable choice for those seeking a replacement.

Deka

Deka provides both marine and non-marine batteries that can be used for cranking bass boats. Their Deka 27m6 Marine battery offers 840 CCA and 1050 MCA, while their HD farm equipment battery provides 950 CCA and 1140 MCA. The marine battery is priced at $128, while the non-marine option is around $145.

Ionic

Ionic is a lithium battery manufacturer that has gained popularity among bass boat owners. Their batteries offer high performance and long-lasting power. Ionic users have reported having plenty of juice left after a full day of fishing, with batteries still retaining 50-80% charge. Ionic is also praised for its exceptional customer service.

Odyssey/Northstar

Odyssey/Northstar is another battery manufacturer that offers the Odyssey/Northsatr 31 battery, which is recommended for use with lithium batteries for trolling motors. This battery can provide the necessary power for electronics and other accessories on a bass boat.

When choosing a cranking battery for a bass boat, it is important to consider factors such as the boat's engine, the number of electronics and accessories, and the desired level of performance and reliability. Each manufacturer offers unique features and specifications, so it is essential to select a battery that best suits your specific needs and requirements.

Battery weight and size

When it comes to battery weight and size, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to know the basics of battery selection. The size of the battery you need will depend on the dimensions of your battery compartment, and you should also consider the industry-standard group size.

For starting batteries, the most crucial factor is cranking amps (CA). This refers to the discharge load that a fully charged battery can deliver in 30 seconds, which is typically how long a battery needs to be at peak performance to start the engine. You can find this information in the owner's manual or by consulting a dealer.

Another important consideration is the battery's amp hours (Ah), which indicates the amount of energy charge that will provide one ampere of current flow for one hour. This is particularly relevant for deep cycle batteries, which are used to power your onboard gadgets. By knowing how many amps you need, you can estimate how long your battery will last.

Additionally, reserve capacity (RC) is worth considering. This indicates the number of minutes a fully charged battery can sustain a load of 25 amps before falling below 10.5 volts at a given temperature. Think of it as the backup power for batteries designed for deep discharge, like those used for accessories.

When it comes to weight, different types of batteries offer varying advantages. Traditional lead-acid batteries are inexpensive and reliable but can be high maintenance and fragile. AGM batteries, on the other hand, offer higher CA and RC ratings and quicker charges but need to be kept charged to at least 50% capacity for optimal performance. Gel cell batteries are sturdier and can withstand impacts, but they require a specific charger. Lithium-ion batteries are up to 70% lighter than lead-acid batteries, making them a great choice for improved fuel economy and engine performance. However, they come with a higher price tag and charge more slowly.

When choosing a battery, it's essential to match the manufacturer's recommendations and consider the cold cranking amps (CCAs) to ensure your battery can deliver the required power to start your motor. Reserve capacity is also important, especially for constant power draws like screens and trolling motors.

In terms of specific products, the OPTIMA Batteries 8006-006 34M BlueTop Marine Starting Battery weighs 38.4 pounds and measures 10" x 6 7/8" x 7 13/16". The Dakota Lithium 12V 54Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery is another option, backed by an 11-year warranty and offering a lightweight alternative for trolling motors.

Frequently asked questions