So, you got a new (or new to you) pontoon boat. Congratulations! Now it’s time to properly stock it with the necessary safety equipment and helpful accessories to guarantee you get the most out of your boating experience.
The amount of pontoon boat accessories and general pontoon stuff out there is a lot so let us help you narrow it down to what you really need and want.
Legally Required Equipment
If you’re planning to take your pontoon boat out on the water in Wisconsin, there are several things required by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the U.S. Coast Guard.
These requirements are very similar to those of other states with inland bodies of water (Minnesota, Michigan, New York, Maine and others) but check with your local authority to confirm the specific regulations that apply to your jurisdiction.
Although a water emergency is unlikely, they can still happen and it is imperative that you are prepared. You will also get a ticket if pulled over and you do not have the needed licenses and boat equipment to safely be in the water.
Boat Decals
You must have your boat registered and your registration number displayed on your boat in order to legally take it out on the water.
If you purchase your pontoon boat from a dealer, they should fill out the forms and send to the DNR for you while also providing a temporary Registration document. For a private party sale of a used boat you will most likely be on your own and it will be necessary to send in the proper registration documentation in order to receive a registration identification number.
Once you know what your identification number is, you can buy the decals and affix to your boat so that you are in compliance with the law and can get boating.
Personal Flotation Devices
In Wisconsin, every pontoon boat must have at least one wearable life jacket on board for each person. Additionally, if the boat is longer than 16 feet, it must also have at least one throwable flotation device.
The easiest way to satisfy the wearable life vest requirements are to buy a set of U.S. Coast Guard approved orange life vests. They’re inexpensive and can be easily stowed away under the seats.
Similarly, to satisfy the throwable floatation device requirement, a generic blue square seat cushion will suffice. They double as a comfy floor seat if you have a full boat so are handy to have around. We’d recommend buying at least two!
Sound Producing Device
A sound-producing device, such as a horn or whistle, is also required safety equipment for pontoon boats in Wisconsin. This is used to signal other boaters in case of an emergency or to alert them of your presence.
Most boats come equipped with a built in horn but if yours doesn’t or you want to be prepared in the event of electrical malfunctions, this is what we recommend.
Visual Distress Signals
If your boat is operating between sunset and sunrise, visual distress signals are also required safety equipment. This includes flares or flags that can be used to signal for help in case of an emergency.
Marine Fire Extinguisher
You must have a fire extinguisher on your pontoon boat at all times. Look for one that is rated for use on Class B fires (flammable liquids and gases) and Class C fires (electrical fires).
Waterproof Bag for Registration
Other Important Safety Equipment
While not required by law, these are a handful of things worth having
Anchor
There are a few different kinds of anchors.
Throwable Rope
A throwable rope is also an important safety item to have on board. It can be used to help rescue someone who has fallen overboard or to tow another boat in case of an emergency.
First Aid Kit
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Protecting your boat
Boats are exposed to extreme conditions like UV rays, heat and cold, fresh or salt water.
Boat Cover
Boat covers help keep your pontoon protected from natural elements when it’s not in use. Your boat can take a real beating from the constant barrage of heat and UV rays from the sun, morning dew and rain, bird dropping and claws, sunscreen, etc.
Boat covers are designed to be extremely snug so you’ll need to get one designed to fit your boat’s specific dimensions.
Bumper Buoys and Fenders
Hanging some bumper buoys along the side of your boat can help prevent damage, like scratches and dents, from occurring when you dock or link up with other boats out on the water.
Fenders are also worth adding to your own dock for the same reason, but bumpers allow you to dock elsewhere and be protected
Docking Rope
Throw ropes are essential for attaching your boat to a dock or other stationary object.
Bracket
If you don’t already have these, you will need them.
Maximize the fun
Most boats come standard with pontoon furniture like comfortable seating, cup holders and tables.
Drink and Food Coolers
A big, well-insulated cooler for keeping drinks and snacks cool out on the water is a must have in our opinion.
We have a large one from Walmart’ Ozark Trail line which is a competitor of Yeti. It keeps things very cold and we load it up with water, beer and seltzers and it lasts us a whole weekend!
We use a separate cooler for food since we generally bring it on and off the boat with each trip. the Coleman softsided cooler is perfect for this.
Cargo Carrying Bag
Trash Can
Fishing Rod Holders
If you plan on fishing, having rod holders installed on your pontoon boat can help keep your fishing gear organized and easily accessible. Look for rod holders that are easy to install and can securely hold your fishing rods in place.
