Going on a multi-day fishing trip lasting 3-5 days or even a week can be an incredible experience. Nothing beats being out on the open water for days on end, with just you, your gear, and nature. However, to fully enjoy an extended fishing expedition, having the right equipment - including a reliable portable power station - is absolutely essential.
In this blog post, we'll explore why a portable power station is a must-have item for any fishing trip lasting multiple days and nights. We'll go over the key benefits high-quality portable power provides in fishing, features to look for when choosing a station, power needs calculations, and charging options. With the right portable power preparation, you can maximize your time out fishing and minimize frustration.
Benefits of Portable Power Station on Multi-Day Fishing Trips
Having a portable power station provides a number of advantages for days-long fishing trips:
- Charge phones, tablets, and cameras: You'll want to be able to keep your smart devices and electronics charged while out on the water for several days on end. A portable power station lets you juice up smartphones, tablets, e-readers, digital cameras, action cams, and other battery-powered electronics. This ensures you don't miss capturing epic fishing shots and memories due to dead batteries.
- Run lighting at night: Quality portable power stations designed for outdoor use allow you to set up bright lighting while night fishing or at your campsite. Durable, waterproof lanterns and emergency lights can be powered via your station. Illumination helps you change rigs, prepare bait, and navigate safely after dark.
- Power electric coolers & watercraft: Higher capacity power stations above 500Wh can effectively run portable refrigerators, electric coolers, and electric trolling motors. This allows you to keep food and drinks cold and your boat moving for the duration of your trip without relying solely on ice and manual work.
- Charge fish finders & gear: Your fish finders, electric reels, depth finders, GPS devices and other fishing gear can be charged and run via a portable power station. This enables you to maximize your time efficiently detecting fish and landing them.
- Prevent dead batteries: Portable power stations with 600W+ AC inverters can jump start your boat, kayak or canoe battery if it dies after multiple days away from shore power. This provides peace of mind and prevents getting stranded out on the water.
Features to Look for in a Portable Power Station for Your Fishing Trips
When selecting a portable power station to take with you on your next multi-day fishing adventure, keep an eye out for these key features:
- Sufficient Wattage for Your Load: Carefully calculate the wattage draw of the devices, lights, and appliances you want to power. Choose a station with suitable 1000W+ rated power to comfortably handle your load. Over-estimate rather than under-estimate power needs.
- Adequate Battery Storage Capacity: Opt for a higher battery capacity of 1000Wh or better for multi-day usage. This provides a longer power duration between recharges. Look for capacity lasting 5+ days for a full week-long trip. Lithium batteries provide the most compact energy density.
- Efficient Solar Recharging: Since you'll be off-grid without electrical outlets, look for a station that can effectively recharge via 100W+ solar panels. This allows you to utilize free solar energy while out fishing to maximize uptime. Faster recharging is better.
- Sufficient Ports and Outlets: Pick a model with multiple 110V AC outlets, USB-A/USB-C ports, 12V DC ports and a car cigarette lighter outlet to power all your gear. The more output options, the better.
- Durable Lithium Battery Chemistry: Choose portable power stations using lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery cells. They're safer and prevent possible fires. LiFePO4 also lasts over 5 times longer than lead-acid batteries.
- Rugged, Waterproof Construction: Look for stations with rugged, water-resistant frames. Rubber bumpers, strong handles, and waterproofing provide protection from bumps and splashes while fishing.
Make sure to buy from reputable brands and check product specs and reviews. With the right portable power station, you'll be prepared for successful multi-day fishing trips powered up.
Conclusion
Having reliable portable power is no longer a nice-to-have - it's an absolute necessity for multi-day fishing excursions. When you're going to be on the water for several days and nights in a row, a quality portable power station provides the off-grid electricity you require to stay powered up and safe. Use this guide to pick the best model for your needs according to calculated power requirements and budget. The ability to harness solar energy, run small appliances and electronics, and prevent dead batteries makes a portable power station a must-have item for any fisherman planning a remote trip. Investing in portable power preparedness helps ensure your extended fishing adventures go smoothly.