Buyers Guides

Axiom RVM Series Buyer’s Guide: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Boating Adventures

When it comes to enhancing your boating experience with cutting-edge technology, the Raymarine Axiom RVM series stands out as a game-changer. Designed to deliver unparalleled navigation, sonar, and performance capabilities, the Axiom RVM series offers features tailored to meet the needs of recreational and professional boaters alike. This guide will help you choose the right Axiom RVM model for your vessel and explain why it’s worth the investment.

What Makes the Axiom RVM Series Unique?

The Axiom RVM series integrates powerful navigation tools and next-generation sonar technologies into a sleek, intuitive interface. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or exploring new waters, the Axiom RVM provides detailed insights and real-time data to ensure a safer and more enjoyable journey.

Key features include:

RealVision MAX Sonar: Crystal-clear imagery with advanced fish-targeting and bottom-tracking capabilities.

A Guide to Lithium Battery Chargers for Marine Electronics

When it comes to powering your marine electronics, lithium batteries have become the gold standard due to their lightweight, long-lasting, and efficient performance. However, choosing the right lithium battery charger is just as important as the battery itself. A proper charger ensures your batteries remain in optimal condition, charge safely, and deliver peak performance every time you hit the water.

This guide breaks down the best lithium battery chargers on the market and what to look for when making your selection.

Why Choose a Lithium Battery Charger?

Lithium batteries require specialized chargers because they have different charging profiles compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. Using an incompatible charger can damage your lithium batteries, reduce their lifespan, and even void your warranty.

Here’s what to look for in a lithium battery charger:

-Compatibility with Lithium Batteries: Ensure the charger explicitly states

Embarking on the journey of setting up a NMEA 2000 network for your boat often seems like a daunting task. At BOE Marine, where we receive weekly inquiries about this very process, we've come to realize that it's much simpler than it's made out to be.

In today's world, a NMEA 2000 network has become needed, acting as the vital link connecting various marine electronics and data transfer. Whether it's integrating different devices with MFDs or chartplotters, this network streamlines operations with easy connectivity.

The beauty lies in its simplicity—no intricate wire splicing involved, just straightforward connection of cable wire ends.

You will need to start with a NMEA 2000 starter kit, a comprehensive package encompassing everything required for smooth sailing. This kit typically includes multiple T connectors, a duo of resistors, a couple of backbone cables, and the essential power cable.  The Garmin power cable is often times Yellow.

Here's the breakdown of the setup:

Device Integration:

Boating enthusiasts know that every piece of equipment on their vessel can make a significant difference in their overall experience on the water. One such piece of equipment is the Sea Swivel, a heavy-duty, marine-grade CNC-made pivoting bracket designed to enhance the functionality and versatility of your trolling motor. If you're considering upgrading your boat's gear, the Sea Swivel should be at the top of your list. Here's why.

Optimal Trolling Motor Positioning

The primary advantage of the Sea Swivel is its ability to maneuver your trolling motor into the correct position while deployed. This means you can easily adjust the motor to ensure optimal performance, whether you are navigating through tight spots or trying to maintain a steady course. The pivoting bracket allows for precise control, giving you the confidence to handle your boat with ease and efficiency.

Customizable Stowage

One of the most common issues with trolling motors is finding the right stowed position that doesn’t

Lowrance introduced its first ever freshwater trolling motor, the Ghost, nearly five years ago, and it remains highly regarded today. Recently, Lowrance launched a new model in the industry named the Recon, available in both freshwater and saltwater versions. This versatile motor is ideal for center console boats and various freshwater applications. The stow and deploy style/ ergonomics may be likened to that of the Minn Kota Terrova. The Recon offers great performance, making it a strong contender in the trolling motor market.

The Recon™ trolling motor is tailored for freshwater and saltwater environments with its 48, 54, 60, 72in shaft lengths and advanced control features. It includes a joystick remote, wireless foot pedal, and HDI nosecone for comprehensive functionality. The FreeSteer™ remote enables precise maneuvering with diagonal jogging capabilities in 8 directions, allowing anglers to adjust anchor positions effortlessly. For enhanced flexibility, Recon™ Freshwater models feature

For many Garmin marine electronics users, the Garmin 8-Pin Transducer to 12-Pin Sounder Adapter Cable is an essential, yet often overlooked, accessory. This simple adapter allows you to connect an 8-pin sonar cable to the 12-pin orange receptacle found on the back of Garmin multifunction displays (MFDs).

If you've purchased a new Garmin MFD, this adapter cable is included, so you may not need to buy it separately—assuming you've kept all the pieces that came with your unit. However, if you're integrating a new transducer with an older MFD and can't find your original cable, this adapter becomes crucial.

The standard Garmin 8-pin transducer can seamlessly work with your Garmin MFD using this adapter cable. Given that all new Garmin units feature the 12-pin orange adapter on their rear, having this adapter cable ensures compatibility and functionality across your devices. So, whether you're upgrading your setup or simply replacing lost components, the Garmin 8-Pin Transducer to 12-Pin Sounder

The Garmin GT56 transducer is a top choice for customers pairing it with Garmin electronics. It is available as a transom mount or through-hull. For through-hull installations, a single transducer works for boats with a flat spot on the bottom with 6 degrees of angle or less. For steeper angles, a pair of transducers, one on each side of the boat, is recommended.

The GT56 operates at 150-240kHz and reaches depths of 800 feet freshwater (Roughly 600 +/- in Saltwater). Its UHD ClearVu and SideVu sonar provide exceptionally clear images of fish and underwater structures, even showing fish hanging off submerged branches. UHD ClearVu images reach 200 feet below the boat, and SideVu offers two frequency settings for a 20% greater range.

Compatible with Garmin echomap UHD 73/74/93/94sv, echomap Ultra 106sv/126sv, and GPSMAP 743xsv/943xsv/1243xsv/1643xsv, and 8400/8600xsv GPS/Fishfinder Series.

High Wide CHIRP Frequency Range: 150-240kHz, maximum depth 800 feet in Freshwater (Roughly 600 +/- in

Navigating the world of marine electronics can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to understanding the differences between Ethernet/ network wiring and NMEA 2000. Terminology varies between brands, with Simrad and Lowrance referring to Ethernet while Garmin and others may use the term Network – so it's important not to get confused.

NMEA 2000

At the heart of marine electronics lies NMEA 2000, a standardized communication protocol embraced by all major brands. This protocol serves as the universal language, allowing devices from different manufacturers to communicate seamlessly. Whether it's stereos, wind sensors, or transducers for depth and speed data (not image), if they have NMEA 2000 connections, they can be effortlessly integrated into the network.

NMEA 2000 offers interoperability, enabling devices to be used and controlled across various brands. This means boaters can mix and match equipment without worrying about compatibility issues, enhancing flexibility and choice for

As any seasoned fisherman knows, a successful day out on the water requires more than just a rod and reel. Having the right electronic equipment and spare parts can mean the difference between a smooth sailing adventure and a frustrating ordeal. While fishing lures are essential, there are several other crucial electronic components and spare parts that every fisherman should keep on their boat at all times. Additionally, having a well-stocked truck or garage can be a lifesaver in case of breakdowns or emergencies. Let's delve into the essential items:

Spare Trolling Motor Prop:
A spare trolling motor prop can be a lifesaver if your current one gets damaged or lost, allowing you to continue fishing without interruption.

Spare Knobs for Electronics:
The vibrations and rough waters can cause knobs holding electronics to loosen or fall out. Always keep spare knobs on board to avoid any disruptions in your navigation or fish-finding capabilities.

Engine Prop or Hub:
Accidents happen, and hitting

In the world of recreational and tournament fishing, shallow water anchors have become essential tools for anglers seeking precision boat positioning and stability. Among the top contenders in this market segment are Minn Kota and Power-Pole, both renowned for their innovative shallow water anchor systems. Let's delve into the offerings of each brand and explore the features and options available to anglers.

Minn Kota Talon:
Minn Kota, a trusted name in marine electronics, offers the Talon series of shallow water anchors, designed to provide anglers with superior performance and reliability. The Talon anchors come in various lengths, ranging from 8 to 15 feet, catering to different boat sizes and water depths.  These are electrically powered anchors.

Key Features of Minn Kota Talon:
Deployment Speed and Quiet Operation: The Talon anchors boast rapid deployment and retraction capabilities, ensuring quick and seamless anchoring without disturbing nearby fish.
Versatility: Minn Kota Talon