Installing a Livewell in a Fishing Boat

Boats made specifically for fishing often have containers called “livewells” built in to them. Livewells can be used for two purposes, depending on your desire, or if your boat has two, you can use one for each purpose: holding caught fish in an environment that keeps them alive and fresh until you can process and store them, or holding bait fish to take to the fishing spots and use live. Some boats are not designed specifically as fishing boats, and do not have livewells built in. You can build your own livewell to get the most out of your fishing experience.

Select an insulated container to use as your livewell. Use an insulated bucket, or a ice cooler. The insulated walls provide a more comfortable temperature inside the unit in all weather, and also make it more sturdy. Size isn’t as important as being able to fit your chosen spot in the boat, but use the largest container you can comfortably fit.

Drill two 3/4-inch holes in the sidewall of your boat next to where you want the containment system to sit. One hole must be below the waterline on the hull, the other should be above the waterline.

Apply a generous amount of marine sealant to the above waterline thru-hull fitting and insert into the hole above the waterline. Apply an equally generous amount of marine sealant to the below the waterline thru-hull fitting and insert into the hole below the waterline. Screw both into place with a screwdriver.

Apply sealant to one end of a section of hose and fit over the inside end of each thru-hull. Fit a hose clamp over the end of the hose and use a screwdriver to tighten.

Drill a 3/4-inch hole into the side of the livewell container just below the top edge of the lid. Insert a thru-hull coated with sealant. Screw into place with a screwdriver. Drill a second hole at the bottom of the container side. Insert a second thru-hull fitting coated with sealant into the bottom opening and screw into place with a screwdriver.

Place the insulated container inside the boat where you want it positioned.

Attach the hose leading to the above the waterline thru-hull fitting to the top opening on the livewell with sealant, and a hose clamp. Tighten with a screwdriver.

Attach the intake valve of the water pump to the hose to the below the waterline thru-hull opening with sealant and a hose clamp. Tight with a screwdriver.

Attach another section of hose to the out value of the water pump with sealant and a hose clamp. Place the other end of that hose on the lower opening of the holding container and seal with sealant and a hose clamp. Tighten both ends of the hose with a screwdriver.

Attach water pump to a 12-volt battery, or boat’s on-board battery system. Having the livewell pump attached directly to the battery insures it will always be on during your fishing time. If you prefer to be able to turn it on and off, include an on/off switch between the water pump and battery.