Fishing from a pontoon boat is a unique and rewarding experience, offering comfort, space, and versatility that few other boats can match. To make the most of your time on the water, equipping your pontoon with the right fishing accessories is essential. From tools that improve your catch rate to features that enhance convenience and comfort, the right gear can transform your boat into a fishing powerhouse. In this article, we’ll explore must-have pontoon fishing accessories that can elevate your angling game and ensure every fishing trip is a success.
If you are in a rush, below are our favorite pontoon boat fishing accessories.
| Image | Title | Why We Like | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | DownEast Rod Holder | Best Rod Holder |  | Check Price |
 | Aquos Trolling Motor | Best Trolling Motor |  | Check Price |
 | YakAttack BlackPak Pro | Best For Storage | | Check Price |
 | Moeller Live Well Tank | Best Live Well | | Check Price |
 | WingsFlying Bite Alarm | Best Fishing Alarm | | Check Price |
Best Pontoon Boat Fishing Accessories
Whether a person goes fishing occasionally or every week, some of these best pontoon boat fishing accessories are definitely worth a look!
There are many types of fishing accessories available for pontoon boats that can greatly enhance your fishing expedition. The most popular of these include rod holders, trolling motors, live well tanks, fish and depth finders, night fishing lights, storage, and waterproof bags.
Rod Holders
A rod holder is one of the best fishing accessories for pontoon boat owners. It holds the fishing rod, leaving the angler free to perform other activities. Rod holders can be installed on a pontoon boat railing or sidewall. Some of them are mounted permanently using screws, while others can be fixed using clamps. They can be adjusted horizontally and even vertically, depending on the model, to best position the fishing rod. Both spinning and casting rods can be used with rod holders. Most are designed for use with a single fishing rod, although a few of them can hold three or more rods.
DownEast Clamp On Rod Holder
The DownEast clamp on fishing rod holder is specifically designed for pontoon boats. These rod holders have been made by DownEast Sport Craft out of Lewiston, Maine since 1946. These holders accommodate fishing rods from different manufacturers so long as they don’t exceed 1-1/8″ diameter. DownEast rod holders are durable and robust fishing accessories that can withstand the harshest weather conditions. It is made of steel and is very robust in saltwater and freshwater conditions. You can clamp the rod holder in a variety of different configurations, and install it on both square and round (with appropriate clamp) boat rails. You can’t beat American made steel products and this is one of those times!
Scotty Powerlock Rod Holder With Flush Deck Mount
Another popular rod holder is the Scotty Powerlock with flush deck mount. The sturdy rod holder is well built from fiber enforced nylon. It can handle small and large catches equally well. The rod holder can be adjusted vertically and rotated 360 degrees. Its open design allows it to accommodate fishing rods of almost any size. A lockable ring at the top end keeps the fishing rod in place even when cruising. The Powerlock rod holder is presented here with the flush deck mount however, many different mounting options are available through Scotty.
PLUSINNO Clamp On Rod Holder
The PLUSINNO clamp on rod holder is a perfect accessory for those who enjoy fishing on their pontoon boats. It can be installed on rails or surface up to 1.97 inches thick and can accommodate most types of fishing rods including spinning and casting ones. The holder allows for 360-degree rotation making any adjustment of fishing rods possible. Eco friendly and anticorrosive ABS polymer and stainless-steel materials are used for construction of the holder making it sturdy yet lightweight. The PLUSINNO rod holder is one of the best fishing accessories you can find at a value price.
Millennium Marine Pontoon Rail Rod Holder
The Millennium Marine pontoon rail rod holder comes with patented Spyderlok technology which offers tight secure locking angles. It can be mounted on ¾” to 1-1/2” round or square tube. It provides 360° rod holder rotation. The pole holder has an anodized aluminum construction. With the rugged design, it is built to handle whatever you throw at it. You can easily and securely mount this on your existing rails. No drilling is required. With smooth and easy pole angle adjustments, the pole holder is great for both salt and fresh water. The rubber coated rod rack will help protect your rods better. The pole holder comes with a year warranty.
Trolling Motor
Pontoon trolling motors are a great means for enhancing your fishing experience. It is a small motor in addition to your pontoon’s main engine. A trolling motor allows for hands free, quiet, and slow maneuvering. Trolling motors can be controlled via a remote control, a foot pedal, or even in automatic using a GPS. Check out our in-depth pontoon boat trolling motor guide for features, buying tips, and manufacturers.
Newport Vessel Trolling Motor
This Newport Vessel trolling motor provides top-tier performance with an adjustable 55″ fiberglass shaft. This 55 lb. thrust trolling motor is designed for pontoon boats. It features a durable mount that can be bolted to any sturdy flat surface.
It also has 8-speed options (5 forward and 3 reverse), and an efficient three-blade 10″ propeller. The motor weighs 62 lbs. The 10-point LED battery meter helps to monitor the motor’s energy and keep the sailor prepared at all times.
AQUOS Haswing Trolling Motor
The AQUOS Haswing trolling motor provides precise control, quiet operation, and rugged durability. The 12V 55 lb. thrust trolling motor comes with a wireless remote control which extends up to a distance of 164′. The motor is suitable for freshwater or saltwater and pontoon boats up to 18′ long.
With variable motor speed, you can dial in your exact speed, consume less power, increase battery life, and provide more precise control.
A wired foot control pedal provides hands free fishing up to a distance of 14.7′. The quick release mount occupies minimal space and promotes easy motor installation and removal.
Portable Storage
Just because your pontoon did not come with dedicated fishing storage does not mean that you can’t have some. There are many aftermarket fishing storage options available. These portable options provide a dedicated place to keep your fishing tools and knives. A few of them allow you to install gadgets like fish finders and depth sounders on top of them for easy access. Most fishing stations have integrated rod holders as well. They may also have cup holders for keeping your beverages close. If you fish regularly on your pontoon boat, then consider purchasing additional storage.
YakAttack BlackPak Pro
The BlackPak Pro from YakAttack is a comprehensive solution for fishing expeditions. It is a crate with dimensions 16″ x 16″ x 13″ which can accommodate multiple rod holders across its 6 stations. The default package includes 6 rod holders, carry handles, and shock cord rigging. This product is Made in the USA and carries a lifetime warranty.
Yeti Load Out Bucket and Rod Holder
The Yeti Load Out bucket is the perfect portable fishing storage option. The virtually indestructible standard sized 5 gallon bucket can carry knives, vests, nets, various tackle, and so much more! You can outfit your Load Out bucket with a specially designed rod holder. The rod holder accommodates two rods up to 1.25″ in diameter along with other tackle (lures, knives, etc.). Last but not least, a Plano 5 gallon bucket lid and organizer provides an tackle box while containing all the buckets belongings.
Live Wells
A live well is an essential requirement for anglers who use their pontoons for fishing. It is a tank that contains water and a pump. The pump provides the oxygen necessary to keep bait and caught fish fresh. While high-end fishing pontoon models have live wells as a standard or optional accessory, basic boat models may not. There are many aftermarket live wells available that can be installed on pontoon boats. They come in different sizes, and you may consider one that suits your requirements.
Engel Live Bait Cooler
The Engel live bait cooler with net and rod holders serves the purpose of a lightweight, portable bait box with an aerator pump. With a quality injection molded construction, it is insulated with high grade molded polystyrene foam. The net can be easily pulled up so that you can have easy access to your shrimp, minnows or other live bait. The dual speed air pump keeps the water fully aerated.
It runs on two “D” size batteries or 110V. The EVA gasket and the watertight marine grade stainless steel latches ensure that there is no spillage. With the four included rod holders, you get a place to keep the rods. They also feature carry handles and integrated shoulder straps, so that it is easy to carry.
Moeller Live Well Tanks
A live well is one of those handy fishing accessories that can keep live bait or fish fresh and healthy. Moeller live well tanks are available in various shapes and sizes. The tanks are mounted on the deck surface using fasteners, and are quite easy to install. Made from heavy-duty polyethylene plastic, these tanks are durable and built to last. A drain plug ensures fast water removal for cleaning. The Moeller live well tanks are available in both round and oval shapes and come in blue and white color options.
Electronic Gadgets
Pontoon boat fishing accessories include a wide range of electronic gadgets. The most popular of these are fish finders and depth finders. They enhance your fishing experience by giving you information like the location of the fish and the depth of the water body. The transducer is commonly installed on the bottom bracket of one of the rear pontoon tubes. You can attach the fish finder to the battery for power and then mount them on the console.You can cast your line at a spot that has a healthy fish population. It will improve the efficiency of your fishing expedition, saving you time and effort.
A bite alarm is another popular electronic gadget among fishing accessories. While a rod holder does not require you to hold the fishing rod, you will still have to check for the catch. A bite alarm can eliminate the need for the same. It can be attached to the rod and starts beeping once you have a catch. You can read a book, take a nap, or enjoy your beverage without having to keep a constant eye on your fishing rod.
Garmin Striker Fish Finder
Garmin Striker Fish Finder is a popular, affordable choice fish finder which is easy to install and use. They are available in 3.5″, 5″ and 7″ screen sizes. They use the ClearVu technology. Featuring the Chirp Sonar Transducer, you get a good view of the underwater conditions digitally. It is easy to spot the fish under and around your pontoon boat.
Lowrance Hook Fish Finder
Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 with a 7″ screen offers a much wider view. You can also get it installed with a few easy DIY steps. They use the Splitshot transducer, providing a detailed view of what is under the sea. With the autotuning Sonar you need not spend much time making adjustments. Rather you can have more time for fishing. Though expensive, they are worth the investment.
WingsFlying Fishing Bite Alarm
The WingsFlying fishing bite alarm can be one of those handy fishing accessories in case multiple fishing rods are being employed. After casting a fishing line, a person no longer needs to check time and time again to see if they have caught something. This device can be attached to a fishing rod reel and is simple to install. The moment a fish bites, it sounds an alarm making a person aware of the action. It can fit almost all reels and has no adverse effect on the fishing line. An LED indicator is provided to supplement the buzzing alarm and to make it convenient to use at night time.
Night Fishing Lights
Night fishing lights can enhance your fishing experience even at night. They provide the necessary light so that you have good vision while fishing and you can also attract fish. They also add safety while fishing. With quick installation features, they can be a great add-on accessory.
Boaton Marine Navigation Lights
Boaton marine navigation lights are made of high quality ABS material and is nicely sealed in silicone. They can provide visible light for about 5 miles. They are about 4 times brighter than other navigation lights making boating more safe. The lights are also great for night fishing as they are bright enough to light up the water thereby bringing good vision and attracting the fish.
The navigation lights also make docking easier. These marine grade strip lights are waterproof. Easy to install, no drilling is required. You can install them on a rub rail, below or above the rail. They have a flexible body design and feature double sided adhesives on the back of the strip so that it is easy to mount.
Amarine Underwater Night Fishing Light
The underwater night fishing light from Amarine can be used both in freshwater and saltwater. When dropped down, the deep drop waterproof underwater led lamp with 1000 lumens brightness will let you see about 30 plus feet under the water. It can be plugged into a 12-24V DC power outlet. Battery clips are included. They will consume less battery power and can be used for about 50,000 hours in continuous mode.
This underwater light is very bright shade of green which can attract a very large number of fishes to the boat. The fishes will zip through the illuminated area. They will provide a 360 degree view. It is easy to store. They can be installed in a suitable place under the waterline. Most manufacturers offer clear instructions regarding the installation and it can be installed DIY.
Dry Bags
When fishing on a pontoon, you are bound to get wet. It is possible that clothes, gadgets like smartphones, or food might get wet accidentally, causing damage to them or soiling them. A waterproof bag can be beneficial in such scenarios. It’s a standard piece of boating gear that is definitely one of the most handy accessories when fishing from an inflatable pontoon boat.
Earth Pak Dry Bag
One of the most important accessories to take along on a pontoon boat cruise is a waterproof dry bag. This can be quite handy to protect items such as cell phones, tablets, clothes, and even food items from getting wet. Earth Pak’s dry bags are a great option. These bags are made from durable 500D PVC material that is also anti-abrasive making it safe for gadgets and other items prone to scratches. Sternum and shoulder straps make carrying the bag around convenient. The bag is available in 30L and 40L capacities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the right fishing accessories can transform your pontoon boat into the ultimate angler’s haven. From versatile rod holders and advanced fish finders to live wells and tackle storage, these upgrades enhance both convenience and success on the water. Whether you’re a casual fisher or a seasoned pro, investing in the right gear ensures your pontoon is well-equipped for memorable fishing adventures. With the right setup, you’ll not only enjoy better catches but also create lasting moments with family and friends on the water.
