Finding the right power source for your kayak fishfinder is a critical decision that can make or break a day on the water. You need a battery that’s reliable, durable, and appropriately sized for your vessel and fishing duration. The wrong choice can lead to a dead unit just as the fish start biting or add unnecessary weight to your kayak, affecting stability and maneuverability.
This roundup simplifies your search by reviewing ten of the best battery options available. From heavy-duty marine batteries for anglers running multiple electronics to ultra-lightweight lithium packs perfect for minimalist setups, we’ve analyzed the features and benefits to help you find the ideal power solution for your next fishing adventure.
Our Recommended Kayak Fishfinder Batteries
- VMAX XTR31-135 Trolling Motor Battery AGM Marine Deep Cycle
- Mighty Max Battery ML35-12 GEL – 12 Volt 35 AH
- Litime 12V 100Ah Lithium Battery, Group 31 LiFePO4 Battery
- ECO-WORTHY 10W Solar Car Battery Charger Maintainer
- Dakota Lithium – 12V 10Ah LiFeP04 Deep Cycle Battery
- Weize Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery
- ExpertPower 12v 33ah Rechargeable Deep Cycle Battery
- Renogy Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery
- Goal Zero Yeti Portable Power Station, Yeti 500
- ECO-WORTHY 12V 10W Solar Battery Maintainer
VMAX XTR31-135 Trolling Motor Battery AGM Marine Deep Cycle
For the serious kayak angler who also runs a trolling motor, the VMAX XTR31-135 is a powerhouse. This Group 31 AGM battery delivers a massive 135Ah capacity, ensuring your fishfinder and motor have ample power for extended multi-day trips. Its high-performance design provides reliable power delivery and is built to withstand the vibrations and shocks inherent in marine environments.
As a maintenance-free AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery, it offers excellent recovery and can be mounted in various positions without risk of acid leakage. While its 78-pound weight is a significant consideration for kayak placement and transport, the trade-off is exceptional runtime for anglers with substantial power needs.
Mighty Max Battery ML35-12 GEL
The Mighty Max ML35-12 GEL battery is a solid choice for kayak anglers seeking a reliable and durable power source with a slower self-discharge rate. Its 35Ah capacity provides a good balance between size and runtime for a standard fishfinder. The GEL technology means it retains its charge longer during storage compared to standard AGM batteries, so it’s ready to go even after weeks of inactivity.
This battery is known for its consistent performance across a wide range of temperatures. Whether you’re fishing in the summer heat or the crisp air of early spring, the Mighty Max GEL battery delivers solid power, making it a versatile option for year-round anglers.
Litime 12V 100Ah Lithium Battery
For kayak anglers looking for a long-term investment, the Litime 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery is a top contender. Its premium lithium iron phosphate chemistry offers a remarkable lifespan of over 4,000 cycles, potentially lasting more than a decade of regular use. This high energy density means you get substantial capacity without the extreme weight of a comparable lead-acid battery.
Safety and reliability are key features, with UL-tested cells and a comprehensive Battery Management System (BMS) that provides over 20 protections against overcharge, over-discharge, and short circuits. This battery is an excellent choice for those who want a set-and-forget power source with maximum longevity.
ECO-WORTHY 10W Solar Car Battery Charger Maintainer
Extend your time on the water indefinitely with the ECO-WORTHY 10W Solar Charger. This portable solar panel is designed as a trickle charger and maintainer, perfect for keeping your kayak’s battery topped off during long fishing days. It’s an ideal companion for any of the 12V batteries in this roundup, providing a free and renewable power source from the sun.
The unit is waterproof and built for outdoor use, with a built-in blocking diode to prevent reverse charging at night. It works effectively even on cloudy days, ensuring a slow but steady charge to prolong your battery’s life and runtime without needing to recharge from a wall outlet.
Dakota Lithium – 12V 10Ah LiFeP04 Deep Cycle Battery
The Dakota Lithium 12V 10Ah battery is arguably the gold standard for kayak fishfinders. Its compact size and light weight make it incredibly easy to stow in a kayak’s hatch, while the LiFePO4 chemistry provides more than 2,000 deep cycles. It’s specifically marketed for kayaks and ice fishing, showing its suitability for the angler’s environment.
Backed by an impressive 11-year warranty, this battery is built for the long haul. It includes a smart Battery Management System (BMS) for cell balance and protection, ensuring safety and performance. For most kayak anglers who only need to power a fishfinder, this capacity is sufficient for a full day or more, and its lightweight nature is a significant advantage.
Weize Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery
The Weize 100Ah AGM battery offers a high capacity at a value-oriented price point. As a sealed lead-acid battery with AGM technology, it is completely maintenance-free and safe from acid leakage, a crucial feature in a confined space like a kayak. Its low self-discharge rate of 1-3% per month means it will hold its charge well between trips.
This battery can operate in a wide temperature range, making it reliable for early spring or late fall fishing. With a high max discharge current, it’s capable of handling sudden power demands. It’s a robust and dependable workhorse for anglers who need extended runtime without stepping up to lithium technology.
ExpertPower 12v 33ah Rechargeable Deep Cycle Battery
The ExpertPower EXP1233 is a trusted and highly-reviewed sealed lead acid battery that hits a sweet spot for many kayak anglers. Its 33Ah capacity provides plenty of power for a full day of fishing with a modern fishfinder, while its size and weight remain manageable for kayak storage and transport.
Crafted with a rugged construction and utilizing Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) technology, this battery is ultra-durable and provides a wide operating temperature range. It’s a reliable, no-fuss option for anglers who want a proven performer without the higher cost of lithium, making it one of the most popular choices in its category.
Renogy Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery
Renogy is a well-respected name in the off-grid power space, and their 100Ah AGM battery lives up to that reputation. With exceptional safety due to its stable chemistry and sealed design, this battery spares you from intricate maintenance or troubleshooting. Its integrated internal structure is built for reliability.
This battery supports series and parallel connections, offering flexibility if your power needs grow in the future. As a trusted product with a vast number of units sold worldwide, it represents a dependable and safe choice for kayak anglers who prioritize proven reliability and brand trust in their marine electronics power system.
Goal Zero Yeti Portable Power Station, Yeti 500
The Goal Zero Yeti 500 is more than just a battery; it’s a complete portable power station. For the kayak angler who also uses other USB devices, cameras, or even a small portable fridge, the Yeti provides versatile power with multiple output ports, including AC outlets. Its 499 Watt-hour capacity is substantial for a kayak setup.
Featuring advanced LiFePO4 battery technology, it offers a class-leading lifespan of over 4,000 cycles and can be charged from 0% to 100% in about 90 minutes. While it is larger and heavier than a dedicated battery, its all-in-one convenience and power output capabilities make it an excellent choice for the tech-savvy angler or for camping trips.
ECO-WORTHY 12V 10W Solar Battery Maintainer
This ECO-WORTHY 12V 10W Solar Maintainer is another excellent solar option for keeping your kayak’s battery charged. As a maintainer, its primary function is to offset the self-discharge of a battery and provide a small amount of charge during daylight hours, which can be crucial for extending the runtime of your fishfinder on long, sunny days.
Its compact and portable design makes it easy to strap to the deck of a kayak. By harnessing solar energy, it reduces your reliance on wall charging and helps ensure your battery is always ready for your next fishing trip. It’s a simple, effective, and eco-friendly accessory for any kayak angler’s power system.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Battery for Your Kayak Fishfinder
Figuring out the right battery for your kayak fishfinder can feel like a chore, but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A reliable power source means your electronics stay on all day, and you don’t get stranded with a dead unit just as the fish are biting. I’ve learned through trial and error that it’s not just about picking the biggest battery; it’s about matching the power source to your specific setup and fishing style.
The first thing I always look at is battery chemistry. For years, sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries were the standard. They’re affordable and get the job done, but they are heavy and can be damaged if you drain them completely. Lithium-ion (LiFePO4) batteries are the modern favorite for a reason. They are incredibly lightweight, last much longer in terms of charge cycles, and can be discharged almost completely without harm. While the upfront cost is higher, their longevity and performance make them a smart investment for any serious kayak angler.
Next up is capacity, measured in amp-hours (Ah). This tells you how much juice is in the tank. To figure out what you need, check your fishfinder’s manual for its amp draw. A common unit might draw around 0.5 to 1 amp per hour. If you plan on a 10-hour trip, you’ll need a battery with at least 5 to 10 Ah. I always add a 20-30% buffer to that calculation to be safe. It’s better to have a little extra power than to run out.
Physical size and weight are huge factors on a kayak. Every pound and every square inch matters. A compact, lightweight battery is easier to stow and won’t throw off your kayak’s balance. Lithium batteries really shine here. You also need to think about durability and waterproofing. Your battery will be in a wet environment, so a hard case or a well-sealed soft pack is essential. I look for batteries that are marketed as waterproof or, at a minimum, come with a protective case.
Finally, consider the convenience features. A built-in USB port is great for charging a phone or a camera. A state-of-charge meter, even a simple one with LED lights, is incredibly helpful for knowing how much power you have left. Some of the best battery options for kayak fishfinders even include a built-in charger, so you don’t need to carry a separate one. Think about how you’ll mount or store it—will it fit in your hatch, or do you need a deck bag? By weighing these factors—chemistry, capacity, size, and features—you can find a power source that lets you focus on fishing, not on your battery level.
FAQ
How long will a 10Ah battery last with my fishfinder?
This is the most common question I get. To get a rough estimate, you need to know your fishfinder’s amp draw, which is usually in the manual. Let’s say your unit draws 0.8 amps per hour. A 10Ah battery should, in theory, last about 12.5 hours (10Ah ÷ 0.8A = 12.5 hrs). However, I never plan on using the full capacity. To preserve battery health, especially with lead-acid types, I only plan on using about 80% of the rated capacity. So, in practice, I’d expect a solid 10 hours from that 10Ah battery. For longer days, I always size up.
Can I use a regular car battery in my kayak?
Technically, you could, but I would strongly advise against it. A standard car battery is massive, incredibly heavy, and not designed for the deep discharges that running a fishfinder requires. Using one would be dangerous, as it could easily flip your kayak and is not sealed against water. Stick to purpose-built marine or portable power station batteries that are designed to be safe and stable in a marine environment.
What’s the real difference between lithium and lead-acid batteries?
The main differences come down to weight, lifespan, and cost. A 10Ah lithium battery might weigh 2 pounds, while a similar lead-acid battery can weigh 7 pounds or more. Lithium batteries can be charged and discharged thousands of times, while a lead-acid battery might only last a few hundred cycles. The catch is that lithium batteries cost two to three times more upfront. For me, the weight savings and long-term reliability of lithium make it the clear winner for a kayak, but a lead-acid battery is a perfectly functional budget-friendly option if the weight isn’t an issue for your setup.
Do I need a special charger for my kayak fishfinder battery?
Yes, using the correct charger is critical for battery health and safety. Lead-acid and lithium batteries require different charging profiles. Using a lead-acid charger on a lithium battery can damage it and is a fire hazard. Most quality batteries will come with a compatible charger, or the product page will specify exactly which charger you need. I always use the manufacturer-recommended charger to ensure my battery lasts as long as possible.
How should I store my battery during the off-season?
Proper storage is key to making your battery last for years. For both lithium and lead-acid, I store them in a cool, dry place. The big difference is in the charge level. For a lithium battery, I store it at about a 50-60% charge. For a lead-acid battery, it’s best to keep it on a maintenance charger or tender to prevent it from discharging completely, which will permanently damage it. Never store a fully discharged battery.