Summer on the Jersey Shore means the boat needs to be ready. The season is short, the weather windows are competitive, and nobody wants to miss a run because of an electronics problem that should have been caught in the spring. Whether you’re a weekend angler or a serious offshore fisherman, getting the boat’s systems checked, updated, and functioning before Memorial Day weekend is the goal.
At Chart House Marine Electronics, spring is our busiest season. Here’s what we recommend covering before the boat goes back in the water.
Electronics Systems Check
Power up every piece of electronics on the boat. Chartplotter, radar, sonar, VHF, AIS, autopilot, stereo, and lighting. Look for slow boot times, dim displays, unresponsive touchscreens, and error messages. Test every function on each device. If something isn’t working, it’s better to find out at the dock than at Barnegat Inlet on a Saturday morning.
Update all software and firmware. Garmin, Simrad, and Raymarine all release updates through the winter and spring that address bugs, add features, and improve chart data. Running current software keeps your equipment performing at its best.
Chart and Map Updates
Download and install the latest chart data for your area. Navionics, C-MAP, and Garmin BlueChart all release annual updates. Channel markers move, shoals shift, and inlet depths change. Running outdated charts is a real navigation risk, especially in New Jersey’s dynamic coastal environment.
Antenna and Cable Inspection
Climb up to the T-top or hardtop and inspect every antenna mount, connector, and cable run. VHF antennas, GPS pucks, radar cables, and AIS antennas are all exposed to the elements year-round. Look for corroded fittings, loose mounts, cracked housings, and UV-damaged cable jackets. Replace anything that shows degradation.
Transducer Cleaning
If the boat was in the water over the winter, the transducer face may have growth, paint buildup, or barnacle damage. Clean it carefully without scratching the surface. A dirty transducer face degrades sonar performance significantly.
Battery and Electrical System
Test battery voltage under load. A battery that reads 12.6 volts at rest but drops below 10 volts when starting the engine is on its way out. Check all terminal connections for corrosion and tightness. Inspect the battery switch, main fuse panel, and distribution bus for signs of heat damage or loose connections.
For boats with trolling motors, test the trolling motor battery bank separately. Lithium batteries hold charge over winter better than AGM, but both should be verified before the season.
Safety Equipment
Verify that your EPIRB is registered and the battery hasn’t expired. Test personal locator beacons. Check that the VHF radio has a current MMSI programmed and that DSC sends a test alert successfully. Inspect fire extinguishers, flares, and first aid kits for expiration dates.
Outfitting and Accessories
Check rod holders, outrigger hardware, T-top accessories, and any custom outfitting for loose bolts, corrosion, or UV damage. Replace any worn or compromised hardware before it fails on the water.
If you need service, upgrades, or a full pre-season inspection, contact Chart House Marine Electronics. Our teams at Egg Harbor Township and Point Pleasant are booking spring service now. Get on the schedule early and start the season with confidence.
