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[Full Guide] Choosing The Best Battery For Your Fish Finder

Mike Smith
Mike Smith
—
09/01/2024

Fishing enthusiasts often spend countless hours on the water in pursuit of their quarry. To make the most of your fishing trip, it is essential to have a reliable fish finder powered by a suitable battery. With so many options available, choosing the right battery for your fish finder can be daunting.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision and select the best battery to meet your specific fishing needs.

What is a Fish Finder?

A fish finder is an electronic device used to locate fish underwater by transmitting sound waves and analyzing the reflected signals. These devices can be mounted on a variety of boats, from large fishing vessels to smaller kayaks and canoes, enhancing your fishing experience by providing valuable information about the location and depth of fish. However, to ensure optimal performance, it is crucial to select the right battery for your fish finder.

finsh finder battery

Do You Need a Separate Battery for Your Fish Finder?

If you own a small boat or kayak without an electrical system, you need a separate deep cycle battery to power your fish finder. Traditional lead-acid batteries can work, but lithium batteries, like our LiTime lithium batteries, offer many benefits.

Lithium batteries are lightweight and compact. They can discharge 100% of their power without harming their lifespan. They also deliver a steady current for your electronics.

If you’re building a lithium battery bank for a bass fishing boat, or just need a simple battery for a kayak fish finder, saving weight is crucial. A lighter battery improves your boat's performance and your fishing experience.

The main downside is the higher cost of lithium batteries. However, if you recognize their value, you get twice the power and better overall performance compared to standard batteries. This makes the cost worthwhile.

Despite the initial expense, lithium batteries are a smart choice for powering your fish finder. Their lightweight design and excellent performance can greatly enhance your fishing trips, especially on smaller boats or kayaks.

Lead-Acid VS Lithium Fish Finder Batteries

Let's take a full comparison between lead-acid and lithium fish finder batteries.

1. Lead-Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are the most widely used type of battery for fish finders, primarily due to their affordability and easy availability. They are also relatively durable and can withstand harsh conditions, making them a reliable choice for anglers. However, it is important to understand the characteristics and limitations of lead-acid batteries to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Advantages of Lead-Acid Batteries

  • Affordability: Lead-acid batteries are the most economical option among the different types of fish finder batteries.
  • Widely Available: Lead-acid batteries are readily available at most retail stores and online retailers, making them easy to find and replace when needed.
  • Durability: Lead-acid batteries are known for their durability and can withstand harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures and vibrations.
  • High Surge Capacity: Lead-acid batteries can deliver a high surge of power, which is important for powering fish finders that require a lot of power to operate.

Disadvantages of Lead-Acid Batteries:

  • Heavy Weight: Lead-acid batteries are relatively heavy compared to other types of batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries. A 12V 100Ah lead-acid battery weights around 70lbs, while a 16V LiFePO4 lithium battery at the same capacity is merely 19.14lbs. This can be a disadvantage for anglers who need to carry their fish finder around or mount it on a kayak or canoe.
  • Shorter Lifespan: Lead-acid batteries typically have a shorter lifespan than other types of batteries, lasting around 2-3 years with proper care and maintenance.
  • Slow Charging Times: Lead-acid batteries take longer to charge compared to other types of batteries, requiring several hours to reach a full charge.
  • Limited Depth of Discharge: Lead-acid batteries should not be discharged below 50% of their capacity to avoid reducing their lifespan and performance.

Maintenance and Care of Lead-Acid Batteries

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of lead-acid batteries, it is important to follow proper maintenance and care practices:

  • Regular Charging: Lead-acid batteries should be charged regularly, even when not in use, to prevent sulfation and extend their lifespan.
  • Avoid Deep Discharge: Avoid discharging lead-acid batteries below 50% of their capacity. Deep discharge can damage the battery and shorten its lifespan.
  • Use a Battery Charger: Use a compatible battery charger specifically designed for lead-acid batteries to ensure proper charging and prevent overcharging.
  • Store Properly: When storing lead-acid batteries, keep them in a cool, dry place and maintain a charge of at least 50%.

2. LiFePO4 Lithium Batteries:

Lithium batteries offer several advantages over lead-acid batteries, making them a superior choice for powering fish finders. These advantages include:

  • Lightweight: Lithium batteries are significantly lighter than lead-acid batteries, making them ideal for anglers who need to carry their fish finder around or mount it on a kayak or canoe.
  • Longer Lifespan: Lithium batteries have a longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries, typically lasting around 5-10 years with proper care and maintenance.
  • Faster Charging Times: Lithium batteries charge much faster than lead-acid batteries, often reaching a full charge in a matter of hours.
  • Deeper Depth of Discharge: Lithium batteries can be discharged to a lower depth without damaging the battery, allowing for more efficient use of the battery's capacity.
  • Lower Maintenance: Lithium batteries require minimal maintenance compared to lead-acid batteries. They do not require regular watering or equalization charging.
  • Built-in BMS: Lithium batteries are built in battery management system(BMS) to protect the battery from the damage, such as

In addition to these advantages, lithium batteries also offer several other benefits that make them a better choice for fish finders:

  • High Energy Density: Lithium batteries have a higher energy density than lead-acid batteries, meaning they can store more energy in a smaller and lighter package.
  • Better Performance in Cold Weather: Lithium batteries perform better in cold weather conditions compared to lead-acid batteries, making them ideal for ice fishing and other winter fishing activities.
  • Lower Self-Discharge Rate: Lithium batteries have a lower self-discharge rate than lead-acid batteries, meaning they hold their charge for longer periods when not in use.
  • Bluetooth Function: Some advanced lithium batteries are featured with bluetooth function, which can connect with the phone, smart control discharging, monitor battery status and data in real-time. You can check battery system with ease.

lithium deep cycle marine battery for fish finder

Overall, lithium batteries offer superior performance, reliability, and convenience compared to lead-acid batteries, making them the preferred choice for powering fish finders and other electronic devices used in fishing.

Considering these advantages, lithium batteries are clearly the better choice for powering fish finders and other electronic devices used in fishing.

Comparison Table: Lead-Acid vs. LiFePO4 Batteries for Fish Finders

Aspect

Lead-Acid Batteries

LiFePO4 (Lithium) Batteries

Weight

About 70lbs for 12V 100Ah

Approximately 25lbs for 12V 100Ah

Lifespan

2-3 years with maintenance

10+ years with minimal maintenance

Charging Time

16-18 hours

5-10 hours

Depth of Discharge

Up to 50% to avoid damage

Safer and up to 100% discharge possible

Maintenance

Regular watering/equalization required

Very low, with no watering

Energy Density

Lower compared to LiFePO4

Higher energy density, more compact

Cold Weather Performance

Less efficient in cold conditions

More efficient in cold conditions

Self-Discharge Rate

Higher, loses charge faster

Lower, holds charge longer when not in use


Fish Finder Battery Voltage: 12V VS 16V

Fish finders generally operate within a power input range of 10-32V, making a 12V battery suitable for most models. However, some high-performance units and accessories require higher voltage. A 12V battery may experience a notable voltage drop during prolonged use, whereas a 16V battery can sustain a higher, safer operating voltage.

Using a 16V battery enhances the clarity and brightness of your fish finder’s display, allowing you to view essential details in real time. The increased voltage also improves the transducer’s return signal, resulting in sharper side, down, and forward imaging.

With a 16V battery, you can identify fish and underwater structures with exceptional precision, giving you a distinct tactical advantage while on the water.

advantages of 16v finsh finder battery

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fish Finder Battery

When choosing a battery for your fish finder, weigh the differences between lead-acid and lithium options. Here are key factors to consider:

Weight and Portability

A lightweight battery is vital, especially for kayaks or small boats. A heavy battery can limit space and make maneuvering difficult. Lithium-ion batteries are the lightest choice. They offer more energy and save space. For example, our LiTime 16V 70Ah Lithium Battery weighs under 20 pounds, making it ideal for portability. In contrast, sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries weigh significantly more and provide fewer usable amp hours.

Charging Time

Fast-charging batteries are essential for quick recharging and minimizing downtime. Lithium batteries charge faster than SLA batteries. For instance, our LiTime lithium fish finder Battery reaches full charge in just 2-3 hours. This saves you time and lets you fish longer.

Durability and Resistance

Durability impacts battery life and performance. Choose a battery that withstands water, vibrations, and temperature changes. Both SLA and lithium batteries can endure harsh marine conditions, but lithium batteries excel in extreme environments. A resilient battery ensures dependable performance on the water.

Reliability

Reliability guarantees a steady power supply. Lithium batteries are more dependable than lead-acid options. LiTime lithium fish finder batteries are designed for marine use, offers consistent power in various conditions. Look for a battery that meets these criteria: weight, portability, lifespan, charging time, and resistance to marine conditions. A reliable battery boosts your confidence while fishing.

Maintenance-Free

Maintenance-free batteries, like lithium, offer convenience and savings. They require no regular upkeep, such as checking water levels or cleaning terminals. This lets you focus on fishing rather than maintenance. Lithium batteries have minimal maintenance needs and are less prone to issues that shorten lifespan.

Tips for Maintaining Your Fish Finder Battery

Understanding battery features is just the start. Proper maintenance ensures long-lasting performance. Here are tips for storage, charging, and monitoring.

Proper Storage

Store your battery in a cool, dry place to extend its life. Extreme temperatures can harm performance. Keep it out of direct sunlight and heat sources. Clean the battery to prevent dirt and corrosion, which can lower efficiency. Good storage conditions help maximize your investment.

Regular Charging

Charge your battery regularly to maintain optimal performance. Prevent deep discharging, which can shorten lifespan. Charge the battery at 50% SOC for long-term storage and recharge it every three months, even if not in use. A well-charged battery ensures reliable power when you need it most.

Monitoring Battery Performance

Monitor your battery’s performance to catch issues early. Check voltage, temperature, and charge level regularly. If you notice any problems, address them quickly to avoid damage. Keeping a close eye on your battery enhances your fishing experience, ensuring dependable power on the water.

Choosing the Right Fish Finder Battery

Selecting the right fish finder battery is essential. It can greatly affect your fishing experience. By understanding the differences between lead-acid and lithium batteries, and considering factors like weight, portability, charging time, durability, reliability, and maintenance, you can make a smart choice that fits your needs.

Don’t let a poor battery stop you from catching the fish of a lifetime. Invest in a reliable, high-quality battery for your fish finder. Enjoy the confidence and convenience of knowing you have the power to pursue your passion on the water.

Mike Smith
Mike Smith
Mike Smith is a marine energy expert with 15+ years of experience and a Master’s in Electrical Engineering from Stanford. Passionate about lithium battery integration, he also enjoys sailing and exploring coastal waters in his free time.

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