Boat Livewell Bait & Aerator Pumps

Boat Livewell Bait & Aerator Pumps at Fisheries Supply

Livewell pumps are essential for maintaining healthy bait and catch aboard any fishing boat. Designed to keep the water in your livewell fresh and oxygen-rich, these marine-grade bait pumps ensure optimal conditions for your live bait, preventing stress and disease. Whether you're a weekend angler or a seasoned boater, understanding how livewell pumps work and how to select the right one can make a big difference in your fishing success.

The Role of Livewell Pumps

Livewell pumps—also known as boat livewell aerators—are engineered to continuously circulate and oxygenate water in your baitwell or livewell. These pumps draw water from outside the boat, delivering it into the livewell and then expelling it, keeping the internal environment clean and oxygenated. This process keeps live bait and caught fish in prime condition throughout your trip.

How Livewell Pumps Work

Most livewell pumps use a centrifugal design, which allows water to be introduced in a gentle, natural flow, ideal for sensitive live bait. Since centrifugal bait pumps are not self-priming, they must be installed below the waterline to function properly when the boat is at rest. Additionally, their quiet operation makes them suitable for extended use without disturbing fish or boaters.

Choosing the Right Livewell Pump

When shopping for a livewell pump for boat setups, consider the following factors to ensure optimal performance:

• Capacity: Choose a bait pump that circulates the full volume of the livewell every 10 minutes. For instance, a 100-gallon livewell requires a 600 GPH pump.
• Mounting: Proper installation below the waterline is crucial for non-self-priming livewell pumps.
• Intake Strainer: A through-hull intake strainer helps prevent debris from clogging your live bait pump.
• Seacock: Essential for safety, a seacock enables you to shut off water intake quickly in case of a leak.
• Downstream Valve: Adding a ball valve downstream of the pump lets you control flow volume.

Maintaining Your Livewell Pump

Regular maintenance of your livewell system is key to its reliability. Clean your baitwell often to prevent buildup that can clog the aerator and drain. Ensuring proper flow helps maintain water clarity and supports the overall health of your bait and fish.

Why Shop at Fisheries Supply for Your Boat Livewell Pump

We offer a selection of livewell pumps and baitwell systems from trusted brands like Rule, Attwood, and Shurflo. These brands are known for producing durable, high-performance bait pumps that can withstand harsh marine conditions. Our knowledgeable team is available to help you select the right pump flow rate and ensure compatibility with your existing livewell system.

When choosing a boat livewell bait and aerator pump, consider these additional features:
Dual Pumping System: A combination of a fill pump for fresh water and a recirculation or aeration pump can offer better control over water conditions.
Automatic and Manual Modes: Some live well pumps offer both automatic and manual operation for greater flexibility.
Proper Plumbing: Ensure your plumbing system is adequately sized to handle the water volume required by your baitwell setup.

FAQs

Can I use a bilge pump as a livewell pump?
While bilge pumps and livewell pumps may appear similar, bilge pumps are not designed for continuous operation and may not provide the necessary flow or oxygenation required for livewells. It's recommended to use pumps specifically designed for livewell applications.