In this detailed walk-through, Ryan DeChaine showcases the power and efficiency of lithium marine batteries, specifically in a Lund 1675 Alaskan tiller boat. DeChaine explains how they provide exceptional power and longevity in a compact size, making them ideal for various marine applications. DeChaine’s setup is a case in point. This Lund Alaskan is a do-all utility boat rigged with three power-hungry fish finders and boat control equipment. With limited in-deck storage, DeChaine was able to outfit the setup with just two lightweight and energy-dense batteries for extended runtime.
FEATURED PRODUCTS (retail links)
BATTERY AND CHARGER SETUP
- BATTERY (dual purpose) – Millertech 12V 190AH Dual Purpose Starting Battery w/ BT (12190-DP): Buy at Millertech
- BATTERY (24V deep cycle) – Millertech 24V80AH Sport Series Lithium Battery w/ Bluetooth (2480-BT): Buy at Millertech
- CHARGER (12V) – Millertech 12V 20A On-Board Lithium Battery Charger (1220M): Buy at Millertech
- CHARGER (24V) – Millertech 24V 15A On-Board Lithium Battery Charger (2415M): Buy at Millertech
*Additional boat-related and misc. product links at the bottom.
LITHIUM BATTERIES: POWER AND EFFICIENCY
Lithium batteries, particularly the lithium iron phosphate type, are known for their high energy density and long lifespan. DeChaine starts by discussing the benefits of using a Millertech 12V 190 amp-hour dual-purpose battery, which powers both deep-cycle applications like fish finders and trolling motors, as well as marine starting applications. This battery’s compact size and lightweight nature make it an excellent choice for dual-use applications without sacrificing power.
CUSTOMIZING YOUR BOAT’S POWER SYSTEM
DeChaine explains how he optimized his boat’s power system by choosing a single 24V lithium battery for the trolling motor instead of using two 12V batteries. This setup saves space and offers excellent runtime for his application—additionally, the 24V battery management system improves power efficiency for optimized trolling motor performance.
BATTERY MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING
One of the standout features of these lithium batteries is their advanced battery management system (BMS). DeChaine highlights the ease of monitoring his Millertech’s battery status through their Bluetooth app, which provides real-time data on remaining capacity, voltage output, and more. This level of control and insight is invaluable for maintaining battery health and ensuring a reliable power supply.
CONSIDERATIONS FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES
DeChaine also offers tips for maximizing battery lifespan, such as topping off the charge after each use and keeping lithium batteries dry. He also discusses the importance of choosing batteries compatible with cold-weather charging, particularly for late-season fishing.
CONCLUSION: THE FUTURE OF MARINE POWER
The benefits of lithium batteries—lightweight, compact, powerful, steady voltage, and long-lasting—make them an excellent investment for many boat owners. With proper care, these batteries can dramatically improve your boating experience. Check out our Marine, Lithium and Trolling Motor Battery Guide to help make an informed decision about what battery is right for you.
BOAT SETUP & MISC.
- BOAT – Lund 1675 Alaskan Tiller, color – Fall Marsh: Check out at Lund Boats
- MOTOR – Mercury FourStroke 75hp Outboard Motor: Check out at Mercury Marine
- TROLLING MOTOR – Minn Kota Ultrex QUEST, 52-inch 36v (115 lb) / 24v (90 lb), MEGA Down/Side Imaging: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- SHALLOW WATER ANCHOR – Minn Kota Talon Shallow Water Anchor (8 ft), color – Black: Buy at Minn Kota
- FISH FINDER (stern) – Humminbird SOLIX 12 CHIRP MEGA SI+ G3 Fish Finder/GPS Chartplotter: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- FISH FINDER (bow stack) – Humminbird SOLIX 12 CHIRP MEGA SI+ G3 Fish Finder/GPS Chartplotter: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- FISH FINDER MOUNT (stern) – BeatDown Outdoors Flex Sonar Fold-Down Mount: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- FISH FINDER MOUNT (bow) – BeatDown Outdoors Ultimate Shorty Double Stack Sonar Mount: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- JACK PLATE – T-H Marine ATLAS Hydraulic Jack Plate, 4-inch setback: Check out at T-H Marine
- SHIRT – AFTCO Adapt Phase Change Performance Hoodie: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- SHORTS – AFTCO 365 Hybrid Chino Fishing Shorts: Buy at Tackle Warehouse