Batteries

[Muthagoose]

Just wondering aht the "Pros" use?

I looking to buy all new this year been useing interstates they been so so. Heard about Optimum.. So what would you recomend?

[TravisC]

The nice thing about interstates is just about every gas statio carries them so if you do have a problem you can get on in a pinch. ive run them for the last 10 years and only had 1 go bad.

[Whoaru99]

Some swear by them, but I've had good enough results (typically 5 or more years) with the "normal" ones that I can't personally justify spending a bunch more.

Maybe if one fishes a lot more than I do the batteries wouldn't last as long and more expensive ones would be a better value.

[wingnutken]

I have been using Triton AGM batteries(they make the Minnkota Batteries too) in my boats and now in my ice house. I have a 110 amp/hour to run my heater. Sealed batteries are better for inside. Do a google search and you will find many advantages of sealed AGM batteries over wet cell. You will also be able to find companies that offer free shipping and you won't have to pay sales tax. I recieved mine in 3 days. I also have an Optima 55 amp/hour but I haven't had it long enough to have my own opinion but I have heard nothing bad about them. Ken

[Northlander]

I have had really good luck with Interstates.

[Muthagoose]

Travis's point is exactly why in the past I have been buyin interstate's..Just heard a lot about the optimum.The tire shop in Virginia carries both..I asked them and got a couple shoulder shruggs.LOL not real helpfull..

Wingnut Ill do that ....

Thankyou for the opinions you guys spend a lot more time on the water.....................

[sparkyaber]

I was in the same situation this last fall, with two dead deep cycle batteries. I looked at optima, and also the sealed type. With the the latter two being about three times as expensive as the cheap batteries. Common sense and past experience makes me think that no battery will last three times longer than another. If the cheap one lasts 4 years, I could replace them 3 times for the same price as one expensive one, Don't think many batteries will last 12 years.

Just my opinion, and my choice.

[Guest]

Optima's are gel cell batteries.. they are good batteries and will outlast most, especially if they are heavily used and run down to nothing and recharged often if compared to other wet cell batteries. Gel cells are typicaly better for shock absorption, which in theory should give a person better battery life if installed at the front of the boat(trolling motor applications).

We probably wont get anyone, or many to chime in on the longevity and life of optimas because they are very expensive in the larger class of batteries.

Most very large boats.. pleasure, big water and ocean going crafts are all coming equipped with large gel cell batteries now.. That means something. I suppose someone in that $428K boat might be upset if it didnt start after sitting a couple hours with some accessories still on.