Which Batteries Are Ideal for Fishing in Cold Weather?

November 12 2024, by Kookie Zhang, 8 min reading time

We can't wait to go fishing in the cold again as winter approaches! But it's important to have dependable equipment, including your power source. Choosing the correct battery is crucial to ensuring continuous operation in cold weather, whether you're using fish finders, electric outboard motors, or other devices.

In this article, we'll look at the top batteries for cold weather fishing, along with why they're important when the temperature lowers.

Table of Content

Part 1. Understanding Battery Performance in Cold Weather
Part 2. Best Batteries for Cold Weather Fishing

2.1 LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) Batteries
2.2 AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Batteries
2.3 Gel Batteries

Part 3. Key Features to Look For in a Cold Weather Battery
Part 4. Best LiFePO4 Lithium Batteries for Fishing

4.1 Power Queen 12V 100Ah Group 31 Smart Deep Cycle Lithium Battery
4.2 Power Queen 12V 100Ah Low-Temp Deep Cycle Lithium Battery
4.3 Power Queen 12V 200Ah PLUS Low-Temp Deep Cycle Lithium Battery

Part 5. Conclusion

Part 1. Understanding Battery Performance in Cold Weather

It's crucial to comprehend how cold weather affects battery performance before delving into specific battery recommendations. Batteries may lose capacity at cold temperatures because internal chemical reactions slow down. Lithium batteries are more resilient to temperature changes than conventional lead-acid batteries, which can lose up to 50% of their capacity in freezing temperatures.

Do lithium batteries freeze? How to use lithium battery in winter? If you want to find out, click.

Part 2. Best Batteries for Cold Weather Fishing

2.1 LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) Batteries

For fishing in cold weather, lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are generally regarded as the best choice. This is the reason:

A. Cold Weather Performance

Compared to lead-acid batteries, LiFePO4 batteries retain a larger percentage of their capacity in colder climates. LiFePO4 batteries are far more dependable for winter use because they typically lose only 20–30% of their capacity in freezing temperatures, although all batteries lose some capacity in cold weather.

B. Fast Charging

LiFePO4 batteries charge more quickly than lead-acid batteries, even in cold weather, allowing you to return to the water sooner after a strenuous fishing day.

C. Long Lifespan

You won't need to replace these batteries as frequently because they last up to 10 times longer than their lead-acid competitors.

D. Lightweight

LiFePO4 batteries' reduced weight is a major benefit for ice fisherman and anglers who use powered kayaks or smaller boats since it makes it easier to transport and carry more equipment.

E. Built-in BMS

A built-in Battery Management System (BMS) in many premium LiFePO4 batteries helps shield the battery from severe cold, halting charging if the temperature drops too low and guaranteeing long-term longevity.

Power Queen 12V 100Ah Low-Temp Deep Cycle Lithium Battery

Recommendation: For fishing in cold weather, Power Queen LiFePO4 batteries are advised. These batteries offer outstanding dependability under challenging circumstances and are suited for outdoor use.

2.2 AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Batteries

AGM batteries are another good choice for fishing in cold weather. They operate better in cold weather than conventional flooded lead-acid batteries, but they are not as effective in cold temperatures as lithium batteries.

Sealed and Maintenance-Free: Because AGM batteries are fully sealed, they require no maintenance and can be installed in any orientation, making them ideal for fishing conditions where dependability is crucial.

Moderate Price Point: For fishermen who infrequently fish in cold weather, AGM batteries are a cost-effective choice because they are often less expensive than LiFePO4 batteries.

Drawbacks: Their weight is the biggest drawback. Compared to LiFePO4 batteries, AGM batteries are substantially heavier, which may make them less portable, particularly on small boats or kayaks.

Recommendation: If you want a low-cost option, go with AGM batteries, but be ready for somewhat worse performance in really cold temperatures.

2.3 Gel Batteries

Similar to AGM batteries, gel batteries employ an electrolyte that resembles gel. In freezing temperatures, these batteries often perform worse than AGM or LiFePO4 batteries, although they have a higher tolerance to cold than conventional lead-acid batteries.

No Risk of Spills: Gel batteries are fully sealed and won't leak, even if they are damaged, just as AGM batteries.

Lower Temperature Tolerance: Although gel batteries can function in freezing temperatures, they are not the best choice for prolonged use of high-demand gadgets because of their tendency to slow down their discharge rate.

Recommendation: In milder cold weather, gel batteries might be appropriate for fishermen, but they aren't the best option in severely cold temps.

Part 3. Key Features to Look For in a Cold Weather Battery

When selecting a battery for cold weather fishing, consider these essential features:

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): This gauges how well a battery can start machinery in cold weather. In colder climates, higher CCA values are preferable.
Battery Management System (BMS): A BMS, which is a standard feature of premium lithium batteries, helps shield your battery from cold weather harm by controlling temperature and prohibiting charging below freezing.
Cycle Life: To guarantee long-term performance and durability, pick a battery with a high cycle life if you frequently go fishing in cold weather.
Portability: Think about the battery's weight, particularly if portability is an issue for you when fishing on small boats on ice.
Charging Speed: Fast-charging batteries can make all the difference, particularly in frigid climates where time is of the essence.

Part 4. Best LiFePO4 Lithium Batteries for Fishing

For ice fishing, batteries must have the ability to work in cold weather, this is a challenge that must be solved, so batteries with low temperature protection are vital.

4.1 Power Queen 12V 100Ah Group 31 Smart Deep Cycle Lithium Battery

Designed for trolling motors, the Power Queen Group 31 Smart Deep Cycle Lithium Battery will improve your fishing experience. Low-temperature cutoff protection extends the life of your battery and improves charging efficiency, guaranteeing dependable power and safety even in the coldest weather.

The battery is equipped with Bluetooth functionality, which ensures a stable, interference-free connection and allows you to monitor real-time battery status, including SOC and voltage.

Power Queen 12V 100Ah Group 31 Smart Deep Cycle Lithium Battery

Key features include advanced EV-grade A LiFePO4 cells for enhanced starting power, a self-developed Battery Management System (BMS) with more than 20 protection functions, and IP65 waterproofing for added durability in harsh marine environments.

The Group 31 batteries are the perfect replacement for standard lead-acid batteries, offering high levels of safety, efficiency and long-lasting performance, making them the ultimate choice for marine applications.

4.2 Power Queen 12V 100Ah Low-Temp Deep Cycle Lithium Battery

When the temperature drops below 32°F (-4°F: discharge cutoff), Power Queen's enhanced BMS for deep-cycle, low-temperature lithium batteries instantly stops charging thanks to a low-temperature sensor. The BMS will start charging again automatically when the temperature reaches 41°F. The low-temperature design, which is made to resist the tough conditions of the marine environment, is ideal for trolling motors, marine activities, and harsh freshwater habitats. It is also made to handle moisture and salt spray. Excellent weather protection is offered by this battery's architecture, which is resistant to moisture, dust, and salt spray.

Power Queen 12V 100Ah Low-Temp Deep Cycle Lithium Battery

4.3 Power Queen 12V 200Ah PLUS Low-Temp Deep Cycle Lithium Battery

Because of its exceptional performance in cold climates, the Power Queen 12V 200Ah PLUS Low Temperature Deep Cycle Li-Ion Battery guarantees worry-free charging and use of your gadget.

In addition to being a fun pastime, ice fishing helps develop mental and physical toughness. Having a battery that works well in cold weather is essential if you want to take full advantage of the sport's glamour and thrill.Your trolling motor will have sustained power from the Power Queen 12V 200Ah PLUS Self-Heating Battery, guaranteeing peak performance even under challenging circumstances.

Power Queen 12V 200Ah PLUS Low-Temp Deep Cycle Lithium Battery

Knowing that you have a dependable supply of energy for your winter fishing needs allows you to concentrate on enjoying your outdoor experiences with Power Queen batteries.

Part 5. Conclusion

Purchasing the appropriate battery is crucial for fishermen who take cold weather fishing seriously. Because of their extended lifespan, lightweight construction, and exceptional cold weather performance, LiFePO4 batteries—like those made by Power Queen—are by far the best choice. Although AGM and gel batteries are also good substitutes, they have certain performance and weight trade-offs.

You can select the ideal battery to keep your equipment operating efficiently, regardless of how cold the water gets, by knowing your unique fishing requirements and the environmental factors you encounter.

Blog posts

February 05 2025, by Kookie Zhang Do I Require a Battery Monitoring System And How Does it Work

Read more
January 26 2025, by Kookie Zhang How Much Does a Marine Battery Weigh?

Read more
January 16 2025, by Kookie Zhang How to Store Lithium Batteries Safely: A Complete Guide

Read more