Binoculars
Marine binoculars were designed to stand up to harsh weather conditions while providing enhanced optics in super-bright or low-light conditions. Marine binoculars are also water-proof and resist fogging. The two numbers to know to refer to power (magnification) increased by (expressed in the form of the letter x) the objective lens size–7×42 or 8×50 are common sizes for marine binoculars, for instance. Some models come with a compass and rangefinder. The most popular brands are Steiner, Swarovski, Zeiss, Bushnell, Nikon, Pentax, West Marine, and many others.
GPS/Fish Finder
Electronics for boating anglers come with GPS as well as radar/fish-finder technology. These devices aid anglers in not only navigating but also identifying habitats for fish, or observing screen-based views of fish that are underwater. A new item for 2022 will be Simrad’s NSX chart-plotter and fishfinder, a state-of-the-art electronics console.
Motion Sickness Products
With the waves and wind, and the constant motion of boats, it’s almost inevitable that someone on board will experience motion sickness. Stock wearable wristbands that use acupressure to help quell motion-sickness-induced nausea, or stock vertigo-relief pills or Dramamine.
First Aid Kit
All manner of accidents can happen on a boat–from falling onto the deck, which can cause wounds, to acquiring a fish hook lodged in the skin, to cutting your skin off an angler’s line or dock line. Have a kit for bandages and dressings such as antibacterial ointments and antiseptic wipes, and much more. Pay attention to minor medical concerns on the vessel, to save an emergency visit to the shore.
Paddle
People-power comes into play while you’re maneuvering your way into the dock, keeping the boat in place while looking at an anchoring line or when you experience engine failure. A paddle is propulsion insurance. Certain paddles are telescoping, and also have a hook handle and can double duty as a boat hook.
Cut Resistant Gloves
Wearing a protective glove is smart. Make sure you have gloves the time you’re using knives, fishing hooks, or an anchor made of metal (which may have sharp edges).
Boat Grill
It’s what’s more satisfying than cooking up your fishing catch, or throwing some shrimp on the barbecue as you’re relaxing on your boat, eating at your fish cleaning tables? Take a look at a grill that is mounted on a rail or upon legs in the boat deck. Gas or charcoal, you’re well on your way to having a great time.
Telescopic Boat Hook
If you’re floating on your island, you’ll need to reach out and secure something overboard or grapple with the dock or mooring ball– you can employ it to remove a snagged fishing line. Find the telescoping hook for your boat, an essential piece of equipment for any boat.
Life Vests
The U.S. Coast Guard requires that personal flotation devices are accessible to all boaters and crew members, including your beloved pups; Federal law requires that children under 13 wear a life jacket when the boat is underway. There are cushions or vests with a design that is Coast Guard-approved and suitable for the specific situation. For example, the Type III inflatable PFD (below left) is comfortable to wear (most will self-inflate when submerged or the wearer is able to pull a cord for inflating), but they’re not suitable for water-based activities such as wakeboarding or waterskiing.
Water Bailing Containers/Safety Kits
This two-in-one accessory will ensure your safety on board with its self-contained collection of boating-safety items such as an underwater flashlight, marine rope with a buoy as well as a safety whistle that lets you know you’re in need of help. These items are housed in a bailing jar. Just empty the contents, and use the container to bail off the water from your vessel.