14' Jon boat setup questions....

[HJS]

Ok so here's the deal. I just purchased a used 14 foot Starcraft Jon Boat. I intend to use it strictly with a Mini Kota 40lb thrust trolling motor. I usually fish 3-4 hours anytime I go out on my lake. I leave the boat in the water and I intend to get a cover for it shortly to keep out the rain when I'm not around which can be up to three weeks.
I am looking to purchase a group 27 Deep cycle Battery and hook it up to an onboard battery charger. After researching for about a week now I think I'm going with an Everstart 27DC-6 and perhaps a Minn Kota MK-110D (1 Bank) 10 amps On-Board Battery Charger or the ProSport 8 Generation 2 Onboard Battery Charger, 8amp, 2Bank - ProMariner.
My questions
Do I need a water proof case for the battery?
As far as the Battery charger 8amps vs 10 amps any concerns?
Should I keep the charger plugged in when I'm away and since the boat will be covered is there any safety concerns?
If I'm only charging the battery do I need to have a second bank?
and any suggestions for getting a anchor up and down easily (10lb) ....
as an aside I went out this Monday and pulled in 8 Largemouth Bass in a little under an hour all between 2 and 4 lbs....Good fishing for New York.....

 

[s freud]

Re: 14' Jon boat setup questions....

Bump. I am also interested in these answers as I hope to be there before too long. A tip HJS is to keep your questions as narrow as possible in one thread. So I would post your anchor question is a separate thread. My plan for my 20 lb anchor is to pull it up by hand.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: 14' Jon boat setup questions....

If you are gone for periods of up to three weeks your equipment is a target for thieves unless there is someone around to keep an eye on it. But with that aside, your choices are fine. The difference between 8 and 10 amps is of no consequence. Most on-board chargers these days can be left powered up 24x7. They are smart and know when to turn on and off. A battery box (ventilated) is advised. The cover should be allowed to breath otherwise mold can devlop and the boat would be constantly wet from condensation.

 

[FunInDuhSun]

Re: 14' Jon boat setup questions....

IMO a battery box should be used to isolate the battery and protect the terminals.
As far as the charger, a single bank smart charger is all you need.
I'd make sure the electrical supply from shore is GFI protected.
Also- since you won't be at the boat daily, consider rigging a 12V automatic bilge pump. Cheap insurance.