Question 1

What boat accessories are required by the Coast Guard?

Accepted Answer

USCG-required gear includes: a life jacket (Type I, II, or III) for every person aboard, a throwable Type IV device on boats 16 feet and longer, a fire extinguisher on any boat with an enclosed compartment or permanently installed fuel tank, and a sound-producing device such as a horn or whistle. Boats over 39.4 feet also require visual distress signals.

Question 2

Do I need a chartplotter, or is a phone GPS enough?

Accepted Answer

A phone GPS works in calm, familiar waters but has real limitations offshore: screens wash out in sunlight, marine charts require separate apps, there's no AIS integration, and salt spray damages most phones quickly. Most boaters on boats 18 feet and longer invest in a dedicated chartplotter — the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 series starts around $300 and delivers sunlight-readable displays with built-in sonar.

Question 3

How often should I replace marine life jackets?

Accepted Answer

Foam life jackets should be replaced when they show visible fading, torn fabric, or fail the float test. Inflatable life jackets require an annual rearming inspection — check the CO2 cylinder and rearming pill, and replace the kit every 3–5 years or after any inflation. Most manufacturers recommend replacing any PFD after 7–10 years of regular service.

Question 4

What size anchor do I need for a 20-foot boat?

Accepted Answer

A 12–15 lb Danforth-style anchor handles most 20-foot boats in calm to moderate conditions on sand or mud. For rocky bottoms or stronger currents, an 8–10 lb plow-style anchor (CQR or Delta) holds better. Use a 7:1 scope ratio — in 10 feet of water, deploy 70 feet of rode — for the best holding power.

Question 5

What's the best fish finder for a beginner?

Accepted Answer

The Garmin Striker 4 (around $100) covers the basics for inland freshwater fishing with clear 2D sonar and GPS mapping. For cleaner imaging and a wider 5-inch screen, the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 (around $200) is the most recommended step-up. Both are self-contained and require no chart subscription.

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Boat Accessories — Common Questions