Rigging Your Boat for Better Fishing
A boat straight from the factory is often just a blank canvas. The items in this category aren't just 'accessories'; they are the useful boat bits you need to turn a bare tinnie or a cluttered console into an efficient, and effective fishing platform. This is where you solve the problems of rods being underfoot, pliers going missing, and not having what you need within arm's reach when a fish is on.
A Note From Our Local Experts
"The biggest frustration I see on the water isn't a lack of gear; it's a lack of organisation. I've watched anglers lose good fish while tripping over a tackle box to find the net, or having a rod break because it was leaning in a corner. These simple accessories that we sell—a few well-placed rod holders, a cup holder for your tools or drinks—create a 'workspace'. They're about making your boat efficient, so you spend less time fumbling and more time fishing."
- Ben Czulowski, Owner, Fishing Tackle Shop
Rod Holders: Plastic vs. Stainless (and How to Install Them)
This is the first and most important upgrade. Here's the practical difference:
- Plastic/Nylon Holders: These are perfect for 90% of estuary and inshore fishing. They're ideal for holding bait rods, storing rods while travelling, or for light-duty trolling for species like tailor or flathead.
- Stainless Steel / Heavy-Duty Alloy: You move to these when failure is not an option. This is for high-speed trolling, running lures for tuna or mackerel, or for heavy-duty offshore bait fishing. The extra cost is for peace of mind.
A note on installation: The main fear is drilling holes. On an aluminium tinnie, it's simple: use stainless steel bolts with nyloc (self-locking) nuts, or high-quality solid rivets. For a fibreglass boat, you must spread the load. Use stainless bolts with large-diameter washers on the underside, or better yet, a small backing plate made of marine ply or alloy. Never use rivets for a rod holder on fibreglass.
How to Buy the Right Watersnake Propeller
Nothing is more frustrating than ordering a spare prop only to find it doesn't fit. Props are not one-size-fits-all. They are specific to the motor's thrust (its 'lb' rating) and sometimes the exact model series. The only way to get it right is to check the model of your motor. Guessing based on a photo will almost always end in a return.
The "Tinnie Tamer": Your First 3 Accessories
If your tinnie is a cluttered mess, start here. This is the setup we recommend to customers every day to instantly make their boat more fishable.
- Rod Storage: Get your fishing rods off the floor. A set of 2 or 3 vertical rod holders, mounted to the inside of the transom or side pockets, is the single best fix. It stops tips from being broken and keeps them out of the way.
- Tool Holder: This is what a simple cup holder is for. Mount one near the helm or motor. It's not for a drink; it's the perfect spot to drop your pliers, braid scissors, and fish lip grips.
- A "Catch-All" Spot: Add a small tackle storage hatch or even just a simple accessory holder. It's a dedicated spot for your phone, keys, and the lure you just unclipped, stopping them from sliding around the boat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a clamp-on rod holder damage my boat's rails?
They are designed not to, as most have a plastic or rubber insert to protect the rail. The key is to get a snug fit. If you have bare aluminium rails, you can add a small strip of thin rubber (from an old bike tube is a classic fix) inside the clamp. This stops any scratching and gives it a much stronger, non-slip grip.
I've drilled the hole in my fibreglass boat. Do I need to seal it?
Yes, it's a very good practice. Before you bolt the accessory on, get a small tube of marine-grade sealant (like Sikaflex). Apply a small amount to the bolt threads and a thin bead to the underside of the accessory's base where it will contact the hull. This stops any water from seeping into the fibreglass core over time and protects your boat's integrity.
What safety gear am I legally required to carry on a small boat?
This is a critical question. While rules vary by state, you are almost always required to carry specific safety items. Beyond your PFDs, this often includes a bailing bucket with a lanyard (for removing water), a waterproof torch, and a sound signal (like a horn or whistle). The accessories in this category are not just for convenience; they are often essential pieces of your boat's safety kit. We strongly recommend you check your local state maritime authority for the exact, current laws.
When should I replace my electric motor propeller?
You should replace it as soon as you notice significant damage. Even a small chip or crack in a blade can unbalance the prop, which causes vibration. This vibration not only spooks fish but can also put stress on the motor's seals and bearings over time, leading to premature wear. Having a spare prop in your boat is always a smart idea.
