40 Best Bass Boat Accessories

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Last Updated on August 23, 2024 by Paul Clayton

40 Best Bass Boat Accessories

Bass boats are among the most reliable forms for anglers and boating enthusiasts. Whether professional fishing or angler tournaments, bass boats have been a trusted option.

Fishers, in particular, prefer bass boats for several reasons. First, they are compact and perfectly designed for fishing. Second, their durability is beyond match, making them very economical boats.

Whether you are a professional angler or a hobbyist, there is so much you can do with your bass boat. I have compiled a list of 40 fantastic bass boat accessories that can make your boating experience more enjoyable and luxurious to help you with it. If you love customization, you might want to continue reading. 

Must-Have Bass Boat Accessories

1. Boat Cover

People often ignore covers, but they are my must-have accessories. Boat covers can prolong the life of your boat by preserving its outer surface. They also protect the inside of the boat from unwanted intruders.

Boat covers help prevent mold and rust while protecting boats from harsh weather while locked at the dock. Several options are available. I suggest you take your boat’s measurements before choosing a cover.

Remember, boat covers come in two types. First, there are travel covers, which wrap tightly to fight off strong winds. Second, storage covers wrap loosely around your boat in the garage.

When choosing a boat cover, consider the size and shape of your boat to ensure a proper fit. Boat covers are available in various materials, including canvas, polyester, and vinyl, each with advantages and durability.

Proper installation and maintenance of the boat cover are essential for its effectiveness. Secure the cover tightly to prevent it from being blown off by wind or water pooling. Regular cleaning and inspection will help maintain the cover’s integrity and extend its lifespan.

Ultimately, a boat cover provides valuable protection for your boat, preserving its appearance and extending its longevity by safeguarding it from the elements and potential damage.

2. Bass Boat Trailer

In most cases, you will buy a Bass boat with the trailer, but for those rare times, we have included a small boat trailer. You can’t always keep your boat in the water, so you need a boat trailer to carry it to and from the water. It would be best if you were specific about your boat size and mounting options regarding boat trailers. 

Most boat trailers usually come with flexible mounting options. Additionally, you may look for add-ons such as boat trailer steps. To avoid any mishaps, you should also consider the towing vehicle and its compatibility with the trailer.

3. Key Floats

Trust me; you need this device more than anything else. You will drop your keys in the water. Even if we’re not clumsy on the boat, our keys will find a way to dip in the water someday. Don’t let that happen anymore with the help of key floats.

When using key floats, remember that they provide buoyancy but may not be completely waterproof. It’s best to avoid submerging the keys for extended periods or exposing them to excessive moisture.

Key floats are simply keychains with a buoyant design that keeps them afloat on water. These are general-purpose devices for watersports. The key floats come with a lanyard that attaches the key chain to your belt. Even in the worst case, your keys won’t sink, so you can quickly locate them.

4. Cooler Box

A cooler is a necessity on any boat. It can serve various purposes, like storing fish and cooling beverages. Their ability to withstand extreme weather makes coolers a must-have accessory on a Bass boat. 

Most modern-day coolers are durable and will last at least a few years, making your money worth it. The YETI Tundra 45 is one of the preferred coolers for boats and is worth checking out. I like this one because it can hold more than 25 cans simultaneously.

It’s important to note that Yeti coolers are generally considered high-end and have a higher price tag than other cooler brands. However, many users find that the quality, performance, and longevity of Yeti coolers justify the investment.

5. Dry Bag

In the age of smartphones and tech gadgets, avoiding tech tools is challenging; therefore, you must carry them on the boat. However, keeping things dry is good, as you never know when the next accident will happen.

When selecting a dry bag, consider size, closure mechanism, carrying options (such as backpack or shoulder straps), and the waterproofing required for your specific activities.

A waterproof dry bag will do the job for you. You can store hand-carry items such as your phone, wallet, and food in it to ensure your valuables stay safe and dry. 

I don’t have a clear favorite since there are so many options in dry bags. However, I did like this waterproof backpack because of its compression feature. 

6. Boat Hook

A telescopic boat hook can be a lifesaver. It can serve numerous purposes. If needed, you may use it as a stick or a hook to cling to a tree. Because of its telescopic action, you can collapse it and keep it in the boat under your seat, so it’s a space saver.

Collapsible boat hooks are readily available in the market, and several brands offer excellent value for money for this product. So, I don’t have a clear favorite. However, I recommend you go for longer poles of up to 25 feet for deep waters.  

7. Life Jacket

No matter how big or small, a boat ride can never be complete without a life jacket. Even if there is shallow water and you know how to swim, life jackets must be present in your boat. It’s the law. Buy two, as you need one for your fishing buddy. 

Even though life jackets are very important wearables, it doesn’t mean you can’t have accessories. Most modern-day life jackets have several compartments and pockets to carry small devices and equipment. 

8. Rod Holders

If you regularly fish, rod holders are a must-have item in your bass boat. Rod holders allow you to set up multiple fishing rods on your boat simultaneously. They are easy to mount and mostly come with all the mounting accessories.

Rod holders are general boating accessories, with many brands to choose from. The length of the holder depends mainly on how many rods you carry at once. You can even have a single rod unit, or if you want a multiple-rod holder, such as a T-bar rod holder, there can be various lengths depending on your boat size.

When choosing rod holders, consider the type of fishing you do, the type of rod you use, the fishing environment, and the mounting options available on your fishing equipment. It’s also important to ensure that the rod holders are compatible with the size and style of your fishing rods.

9. Shallow Water Anchors

While fishing, it’s crucial to keep things quiet. Otherwise, you might disrupt peace and alarm the fish. Silence is the key, particularly in shallow waters. Shallow-water anchors prove to be great accessories for this purpose.

Hundreds of brands offer several compact designs, but I like this shallow water anchor that operates with a button. Professional anglers use these anchors in competitions because of their efficiency and ease of use. 

When selecting a shallow-water anchor, consider your boat’s size and weight, the type of water you fish in, the depth and bottom conditions you encounter, and your preferences. Choosing a reliable and durable anchor that suits your fishing needs and boat setup is essential.

10. Spare Batteries

Professional bass boaters always carry a spare battery with them. Keep a fully charged, 12-volt spare battery on board to avoid unforeseen circumstances. A spare battery can be a lifesaver in a power shortage, particularly at nighttime travel.

Depending on your need, you can also use this battery as an alternate source for lighting and other electronic devices. It can reduce the load on your main battery and provide more supply durations. 

When choosing a battery, always go for a longer supply duration. In simpler words, you will need a better Ah reading. Typically, 100 Ah batteries are good enough for most applications to set this as a benchmark. 

11. Trolling Motors

Trolling motors are a handy option for more comfortable and accurate navigation of your bass boat. Particularly in smaller areas, trolling motors ensure decent speed and flexibility on sharper turns. 

When buying a trolling motor, consider factors such as boat size, weight, intended use, battery requirements, and control preferences. It is important to choose a motor that is compatible with your boat’s electrical system and provides adequate thrust for your specific needs.

I prefer foot-controlled trolling motors, especially for fishing. My personal favorite is the Aquos trolling motor because it’s quiet. Hence, it won’t alert the fish as you sneak upon them.

12. Trolling Motor Propeller Protection

Trolling motors do all the hard work when your boat is in water. So, your propellers need rest and much-needed protection when not in use. Propellers can be exposed to rusting. They could bend upon high impact, so it is crucial to have them covered and protected. 

Trolling motor prop protectors are intricately designed with a hard material to ensure the longevity of your propeller’s life. I like this one from TaylorMade, among several others, because it’s compact, lightweight, and made from sturdy marine-grade vinyl.

13. Pole Anchors

One popular option for shallow-water anchoring is a pole anchor. A pole anchor, also known as a push pole or stakeout pole, is a long and sturdy pole that can be driven into shallow waters to anchor a boat or kayak. It is commonly used in shallow flats or marshy areas where traditional anchors may not be effective or are impractical.

I suggest the hydraulic anchor poles, as they are compact and collapsible. The pole length can reach 8 ft, making them ideal for shallow waters.

14. Trolling Motor Control Enhancer

Particularly in rough waters, it is vital to have full control over your trolling motor. Often, anglers experience kickback and torque during side-to-side movement, but with a control enhancer, you can limit these elements significantly. 

Control enhancers are simpler to mount on your trolling motor shaft and come with all the mounting accessories. They also don’t weigh much, so they don’t add any significant load to your motor. 

Once you start using a control enhancer, you will notice a noticeable difference in how you control your motor in high winds and waves. 

15. Trolling Motor LED Lights

Trolling motor lights enable you to travel worry-free at night. It’s much easier to navigate with these lights than with a GPS. Trolling motor LED lights can be installed on the shaft or housing of the trolling motor. They are typically designed to be easily attached using mounting brackets, adhesive strips, or clamps.

The lights are wired to a power source, usually the boat’s electrical system or a separate battery, and controlled via a switch or remote. Trolling motor LED lights are a cheap and straightforward solution for lower visibility so you can go fishing anytime.

16. Underwater Camera System

Let’s face it; we all face the pressures of social media postings. Your boating adventure has to go out on social platforms, and if you’re not capturing underwater footage, you’re missing half the fun. Thankfully, the options are available.

You need an underwater system to capture stunning footage and underwater pictures in real-time. The system has several cool features, such as an LCD color display, fin and clip systems for water and ice, and a 6-hour rechargeable battery. 

When selecting an underwater camera system, consider the intended use, budget, desired image or video quality, depth requirements, and compatibility with accessories or lenses. It’s also important to ensure proper maintenance and care of the equipment, including regular cleaning and servicing of the camera housing’s seals and o-rings.

17. Keel Protector

Keel Protectors are low-cost but valuable accessories for bass boats. If you want to avoid unnecessary and frequent repairs, keel protectors should be one item you should always have.

Benefits: The installation of a keel protector offers several advantages:

• Keel Preservation: A keel protector extends the lifespan of the keel by reducing wear and tear, especially in areas prone to abrasion or impact.
• Performance Enhancement: A smooth and undamaged keel improves the boat’s hydrodynamics, allowing for better handling, fuel efficiency, and enhanced performance on the water.
• Resale Value: A well-maintained keel with a keel protector can help preserve the boat’s value, as potential buyers appreciate a protected and well-cared-for hull.

Keel protectors are easy to mount and can save your boat from scuffs and dents. Several brands are available, and they come in various sizes, so the choice mainly depends on your boat’s length. 

18. Fish Finder

Fish finders are essential for regular anglers because they reduce the workload and increase productivity. I prefer small handheld devices that give me a color display. Although accuracy is always the priority, I like having additional features too.

When selecting a fish finder, consider the type of fishing you do, the depth and size of the water bodies you fish in, the display quality, power output, and the desired features like GPS integration or networking capabilities. It is important to choose a fish finder that suits your fishing needs and budget.

Features you should consider when purchasing:

• Sonar Technology
• Display
• Transducer
• Depth and Water Temperature
• Fish ID and Fish Alarms:
• Bottom Structure and Contour
• GPS Integration
• Portable and Mountable Options

I bumped into this cool fish finder. It gives me accurate results and has a GPS to search for big fish.

19. Bilge Pump

A bilge pump removes unneeded water from your boat. It’s a vital accessory, especially when you’re going on long journeys. Handy and lightweight, bilge pumps fit comfortably under your boat seat but should be permanently placed at the stern of the boat, which is usually the lowest point of the hull.

There are two main types of bilge pumps:

• Manual Bilge Pump: A manual bilge pump is operated by hand, requiring the user to activate it manually to remove water from the bilge. This type of pump is typically used as a backup or emergency option.
• Electric Bilge Pump: An electric bilge pump is powered by the boat’s electrical system or a dedicated battery. It is automated and can be activated by a float switch or manually with a switch or control panel. Electric bilge pumps are more commonly used as the primary means of bilge water removal.

In addition, I recommend bilge cleaners. They can make the job much smoother, as they are excellent degreasers and don’t leave a bad smell after cleaning.

20. Cup Holders

There is nothing like a soothing beverage in the middle of the water as you wait for your next catch. However, it may get messy if you don’t have a place to hold your drink. Cup holders are simple yet effective accessories on bass boats.

You’ll get a lot of variety in terms of color, size, and design to choose from. Hence, you can choose from various dual-clamping jaws or stainless steel spring designs. All in all, you must have them on your boat.

21. Digital Battery Charger

Earlier, I mentioned a spare battery. It’s also a good idea to keep a digital charger along with it. Digital chargers can help in emergencies, especially when you’re not carrying an extra battery on board. 

Onboard digital chargers are small and easy to store. They also have battery protection features in case of over- or undercharging. 

When reviewing the different models, consider factors such as compatibility with your battery type, charging capacity and speed, safety features, and user interface. It is advisable to choose a reputable brand or model that meets your specific charging needs and provides reliable and efficient charging performance.

22. Bluetooth Speakers

Bluetooth speakers provide a wireless and portable audio solution, allowing you to enjoy your favorite music or audio content wherever you go. They offer convenience, versatility, and a rich audio experience for indoor and outdoor settings.

You might be alone on a boat trip, which can be quite dull. If you’re not having a good day fishing, there must be something to cheer you up. Listen to your favorite tracks with small yet powerful Bluetooth speakers.

They are lightweight and can be adjusted almost anywhere. Because of Bluetooth connectivity, they will connect to most smart devices. There is a wide variety to choose from. I don’t have a clear favorite in this one. 

23. Anchor Winch

An anchor winch is a handy piece of equipment that lets you restore your anchor without much effort. They are reeled mechanisms that operate seamlessly and lock into place without effort. 

An anchor winch is a valuable addition to a boat or vessel. It makes anchoring operations more efficient and manageable. It simplifies raising and lowering the anchor, allowing boaters to focus on other aspects of safe navigation and enjoyable boating experiences.

My preferred anchor winch can hold up to 40 pounds of anchor weight, making it ideal for bass boats. 

24. Seat Mounts

Although bass boat seats are mostly sufficient for the users, there can always be a need for additional sitting space inside the boat. Seat mounts let you arrange more sitting space. From several designs, I have always preferred the ones that allow 360-degree seat rotation.

Seat mounts are easy to fix and quite sturdy. A one-time installation should be good enough to last for years. 

25. Bass Boat Seats

Once you have installed the seat mounts, it’s time for new seats. Often, users want to upgrade their original boat seats anyway, but sometimes, it becomes necessary as the original seats may not be as comfortable as you want them to be.

A customized seat can also improve your boat ride, especially with a 360-degree rotatable seat. Since boat seats are usually expensive, I recommend new users start with cheaper models and gradually upgrade. 

Retractable seats are also a good option because you can create space inside the boat when needed. 

26. Repair Kit

Your bass boat needs an onboard repair kit like your car or bike. Even more important than a car repair kit, a bass boat repair kit can be a lifesaver for anglers. A fiberglass repair kit is a collection of materials and tools to repair and restore damaged fiberglass surfaces.

It typically includes items needed to repair cracks, holes, or other damage in fiberglass materials, such as boats, surfboards, automotive parts, or other fiberglass-reinforced structures.

Imagine getting stranded in the middle of the water if something goes wrong. With a repair kit, you will get out of trouble most of the time. Regarding the repair tools, you can buy as many as you want. 

27. Repair LED Lights 

The last thing anyone wants is to experience technical faults on the boat, and that, too, in the dark. Therefore, it is better to prepare for them. Although nowadays smartphones offer high-intensity light, there is too much risk. You might drop your phone in the water during a repair.

Therefore, a pair of LED lights for repair is a good option. These cheap yet highly effective devices can run on rechargeable batteries. Your repair kit must have a couple of these to make life easier on the boat.

28. Base Plug

Base plugs are small but very cool items to have on the boat. They stop water from gathering in the pedestal base when no seat is attached. 

Base plugs easily fit into the pedestal base, keeping unwanted water away from the boat. Hence, there will b

More importantly, base plugs are made of regular plastic and have a lesser chance of metal corrosion inside the boat’s bodies, so they will last longer. Although cheaper metal plugs are available, they rust quickly and cost the same as plastic plugs.

29. Interior Glow LED Kit

This accessory will turn your boat into a luxurious party place. It’s not critical for the boat, but it will add some flare, especially at night. The interior LED glow kit lets you decorate and customize your bass boat.

It is a multicolored LED strip that can be controlled remotely. Thus, you can change the theme of your boat according to your mood. It also makes the boat’s interior more lively and enhances lighting options. 

30. Fish Box Deodorizer

It is one of my most preferred accessories. If you’re regular at fishing, you must have a fish box deodorizer in your boat. Remember that maintaining hygiene and cleaning in the fish storage area is essential to minimize odors. This includes regularly cleaning and sanitizing the fish box, removing leftover scales, blood, or fish residues, and ensuring proper ventilation to minimize moisture buildup.

Fish box deodorizers can work on vinyl, plastic, and fiberglass surfaces. They clean off the unwanted smell and leave behind a nose-soothing scent. Because of their nanotechnology, you don’t need to scrub the surfaces with much force. 

31. Fabric Guard Spray

The interior of your boat is bound to get messy. Boat fabric, in particular, will be exposed to harsh weather and scorching sunlight. 

Therefore, it’s a good idea to protect the seat fabrics. For this purpose, a fabric guard spray is handy. It’s easy to apply and long-lasting. 

Most fabric guards use nanotechnology to protect against mold. They can also work on any fabric or material.

32. Fish Lip Grabber

Don’t let a big fish slip away with this excellent tool. The fish lip grabber allows you to get hold of heavier catches. These simple and useful tools can weigh up to 40 pounds.

Also known as a fish gripper or fish lip grip, it is a device anglers use to safely handle and control fish while minimizing harm to the fish and the angler. It is designed to securely hold the fish by its lower jaw or lip, allowing for easy hook removal, measurement, and quick release.

This tool comes with an anti-slip handle and a retractable lanyard. It’s a pocket-size accessory made from sturdy material that fights corrosion. Hence, once purchased, it will last for a long time. Oh yeah, and the ladies love this tool.

33. Retractable Paddles

No matter how reliable your trolling motors might be, carrying paddles in your boat would be best. If your trolling motor makes much noise, paddles will help you quietly get closer to your hunt.

Paddles generally consist of vinyl and hard rubber. Since they are retractable, they easily fit inside your boat under a seat. 

34. Custom Bass Boat Wrap

It is an optional customization for bass boat lovers. To personalize your boat further, you can get high-quality bass boat wraps. There are many different patterns to choose from on Amazon. Take a look; this could be what you’re looking for for that older boat.  

These waterproof vinyl and plastic wraps come in various colors and designs to make your boat look more attractive. Here are some ideas to get you started. 

Vinyl wraps give your boat a different look but can also help maintain it and increase its value. 

35. G Force Equalizers for Trolling Motors

G Force equalizers are essential accessories for trolling motors. They dramatically decrease the motor’s weight, making lifting on the ground and water easier.

The kit features two air pistons and an installation manual, so it’s quite simple to mount. This kit has been a reliable option for most boat owners to reduce lifting load while on the boat. 

36. Smartphone App 

Don’t limit yourself to just one familiar fishing spot or waterway. Download an app to help you mark your spots and navigate any lake or waterway. Getting confused about which way to go or finding that hot spot is a thing of the past. We have a link below for your convenience but don’t just review this one.

The app store offers many to choose from, and it is free or has a low monthly fee.

Since most anglers, whether professional or weekend hobbyists carry smartphones, there is a useful app that can assist them. This app allows the anglers to record their catches, track positions, and create a data log for fishing activities. 

You can also post photos and mark locations for your future trips. It also works as a social platform for anglers to share their activities and insights.

37. Fishing Sunglasses

Fishing sunglasses are an essential accessory for any daytime outing. Particularly for boating, sunglasses can help you stay calm and focused on your job instead of looking for shade now and then. 

Some sunglasses can stop nearly 99% of harmful rays, protecting your vision. Also, there are some cool shades and designs to choose from. Therefore, you can do it now if you haven’t bought a pair of sunglasses.

38. Motor Fluser

A boat motor flusher, also known as an outboard motor flusher or a motor earmuff, is a device used to flush the cooling system of an outboard boat motor. Flushing the motor is important for maintenance and helps remove salt, sand, and other debris that may accumulate in the cooling passages.

1. Ensure your boat is out of the water and the motor is turned off.
2. Locate the water intake ports on the lower unit of your outboard motor. These ports are usually located on the side or underneath the cavitation plate.
3. Attach the motor flusher to a garden hose. Most flushers have rubber cups or earmuffs that fit over the water intake ports.
4. Position the flusher securely over the intake ports, ensuring a tight seal.
5. Turn on the water supply from the garden hose. Ensure the water flow is not too strong to avoid damage to the motor.
6. Once the water flows, start the engine and let it run idle for a few minutes. This allows the water to circulate through the cooling system, flushing out debris or salt build-up.
7. Monitor the water temperature and ensure it remains at a safe level. If the motor overheats, turn it off immediately and investigate the issue before proceeding.
8. After running for a few minutes, turn off the engine and shut off the water supply.
9. Remove the motor flusher from the water intake ports.

An important step in maintaining a sound Marine motor. Works on inboard and outboard motors.

39. Marine Seat Organizer

A bass boat front seat fishing tools organizer is a handy accessory that helps keep your essential fishing tools and accessories organized and easily accessible while on the water. It is typically designed to attach to the front seat of a bass boat and provides storage compartments for items like pliers, line cutters, hooks, lures, and other small fishing tools.

When choosing a bass boat front seat fishing tools organizer, consider the number and size of pockets that suit your needs, the overall size and compatibility with your boat seat, and the quality of construction. Reading customer reviews and checking the product specifications can help you decide on the organizer that best fits your requirements.

40. Vinyl Conditioner

Vinyl conditioners let you keep all vinyl surfaces as fresh as new. These beneficial agents, designed with nanotechnology, condition and protect vinyl surfaces.

Regular conditioning helps prolong the surface’s life. Hence, it will keep you from frequently replacing seat covers. 

It is always better to look for marine-grade vinyl conditioners, particularly for boats. I prefer spray-on applications to make the job easier. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in essential accessories for your bass boat can greatly enhance your fishing experience. These accessories are designed to provide convenience, organization, and improved functionality while on the water. A reliable trolling motor allows for precise maneuvering and positioning, while a fishfinder/GPS combo enhances your ability to locate fish and navigate effectively.

A well-designed livewell ensures the health and safety of your catch, while rod holders keep your fishing rods secure and easily accessible. A tackle storage system keeps your lures and accessories neatly organized, while a boat seat organizer provides convenient storage for fishing tools and personal items. An anchor system helps you stay in position while fishing, and having proper safety equipment on board is essential for the well-being of everyone on the boat.

Equipping your bass boat with these essential accessories allows you to enjoy a more efficient and successful fishing experience.

The list can continue, and we can discuss customizing your bass boats. Bass boats have a customization-friendly design. Since they allow easy and cheap customization options, you have a free hand regarding what you can achieve with your boat.

I always advise people to keep a budget in check and not spend too much on accessories. Also, spending money on protection and guarding accessories is better than on repair accessories.

You could pick some cool stuff from this list of necessary Bass boat accessories to make your style statement. 

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