Batteries

[Savage]

I need to get some new batteries this year...  any advice?  I'm looking at the Optimas but they are very $$$$ and I'm not sure if they are any better.  Right now I use Delcos, and I'm thinking about dropping down to a 24 volt system to save some weight.

What do you guys suggest, I want light batteries that have long run time.

[Revtro]

I know guys will have very different takes on this, but since the majority of batts are made in relatively few factories, I just go with what I can afford.  I got a great deal on Energizer deep cycle batts at Sam's Club.  So far, no problems.  They seem to hold a charge as long as any other I've tried.  Just my opinion for what it's worth.

[yukonjack2]

I heard the optimas are better for somethings, and have some shortcomings as well - check the specs on your charger, as most bass boat chargers are not ideal for the AGM type batteries.  In fact, I would call Optima and check what charging requirements they suggest?

I think they like a higher voltage at a slower rate than the standard 10 amp chargers - I can't say for sure, but I would check it out fully befeo laying out that type of cash.

Jack

[OUTLAW]

There is one thing that makes a battery good Lots of lead. The more lead the heavyer the batt will be. The trolling motor is the most important part of your boat don't skimp on them. I have had 3 buddys that have had the optimas and they do not like them, they work fine for a season but the 2nd year they are junk.

[djkimmel]

Call 800-444-4148 and explain what you are looking for. You'll get a free and helpful recommendation even if you buy something other than Deka - as good as any battery made and better than most, especially for long-lasting power and long battery life - why I use them. I hate battery problems.

Deka batteries are made by East Penn themselves and East Penn manufactures all three kinds of batteries - gel, AGM and wet cell. I like to know who I'm buying from. They are a wealth of information at the Lansing Wonch Battery store - and information is power (as batteries are power ).

www.dekabattery.com

[smbassman]

Right now I use Delcos, and I'm thinking about dropping down to a 24 volt system to save some weight.

Someone doesn't want to give up his jelly doughnuts!! 

[live2fish]

I bought Trogan Batteries 2 years ago and they still act as if I bought them yesterday. I am very happy with these so far.
Barry 

[Genie]

I use Dekas and they will usually last 3-4 seasons ... They are not too pricey and they have a lot of "all day" reserve running my 101 and 20+ ft boat.

[BASS FISHERMAN]

deep cycle battieris are good fur juss so mannie recharges cycles
once thar hav ben rechangud to the limits thay starts gettin week 
whut i do is getts me sume of the bess battieris frum wally world or sam club an runs thems fur 2 yeers  make sur yous keep water over the leed cell at all times nevur lettin it get dry an this will helps make battieris lass longur 
aftur yeer 2 i give thems to someones like my son fur he's  boat an i getts me sume new one 

BASS TRACKERS BOAT RULE 

[thedude]

what model dekas you guys running?
i gotta pick up 2 for a 24v system on my big boat and another for the 12v on my jon. There's a place on Ann St. and  Scribner in GR that has a deka sign out front, was gonna stop in there and pick 'em up in next week.

[djkimmel]

I use the size 31 flooded (wet cell regular) Marine Masters - DC31DT. Overall, for durability, ease of use, and good power and life, the flooded cell Marine Masters are a great combination for a very reasonable cost when you consider the quality of the battery. They make them in size 24 - DC24, and 27 - DC27 also.

These are the heavy duty deep cycle, but can also be used for starting as their secondary function if you need that. Check out this - if you have Adobe Reader installed - to compare the size, weight, power and running time: http://www.dekabattery.com/assets/base/0194.pdf

I promise you that Deka batteries are top quality. That is why I use them and chose to pursue a relationship with them. One thing I can not stand is running out of juice on the water. Two season now with the set I have and I still have lots of power at the end of the day.

[PapaChris]

I need to get some new batteries this year...  any advice?  I'm looking at the Optimas but they are very $$$$ and I'm not sure if they are any better.  Right now I use Delcos, and I'm thinking about dropping down to a 24 volt system to save some weight.

What do you guys suggest, I want light batteries that have long run time.

I suggest you come down to the fishing Extravaganza and talk to Rob from Complete Battery Source.
He will have a booth set up in our parts dept and can explain what batteries are best for boating applications. He is also a fisherman that fishes Lake St. Clair on a regular basis and knows what Batteries fiherman need. Oh and you can pick up a bunch of tackle from 17 different vendors while your here.

http://www.wonderlandmarinewest.com/Pages/Fishing%20Extravaganza.htm