Get the Best Sonar Readouts | "Dedicated Power" Boat Rigging

Do you want to get the best possible readout from your fish finder? Thousands of boat riggings have taught Russell Marine Products owner Justin Russell that “dedicated” power to each fish finder is the most essential factor in getting the best possible readouts. Justin explains what dedicated power is, what it consists of, and why it’s critical for delivering optimal power to each unit. *Product links at the bottom.

We’re all familiar with the garden hose vs. firehose comparison when it comes to fighting a fire. The same concept holds with boat power delivery. Russell stresses the importance of running a standalone 10-gauge marine-grade wire direct from your electronics battery to each fish finder head unit, 360 imaging, and Live sonar (if equipped). Modern, large screen fish finders and imaging sensors are power hogs – the heavy gauge wire is the best guarantee that you’re delivering maximum power to each unit or technology.

When it comes to battery power, sure, a standalone electronics-only battery works great, but they come at additional cost and space and aren’t feasible for all boats. If you only have room for one, Russell recommends spending the extra money on an AGM battery (preferably a Group 31). They pack a lot of performance, reliability, and longevity, making AGMs well worth the investment.