Boating How-to Articles & Guides

For over 25 years, Go2marine Boating How-To Articles & Guides has been a trusted online resource for boaters of all experience levels. Whether you're searching for the right replacement part or looking to enhance your time on the water, their extensive library of expert-written content is here to help. The Go2marine team includes seasoned boaters, certified mechanics, and both commercial and recreational fishing professionals, all dedicated to sharing practical knowledge and real-world advice to improve your boating and outdoor adventures.

Engine Parts Finder Tool

Find aftermarket parts by OEM number or engine make, serial number, etc.

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Prop Finder Tool

Find the right propeller by boat and engine type or by OEM number.

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Anchor, Docking, & Mooring

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Marine Deck Fittings Explained: Types, Uses & Installation Considerations

Marine Deck Fittings Explained: Types, Uses & Installation Considerations

Your boat's deck is a working surface,  and everything mounted on it either keeps you safe, keeps your lines organized, or keeps water where it bel...
The Art of Soft Landings: Fenders, Bumpers, and Dock Edging

The Art of Soft Landings: Fenders, Bumpers, and Dock Edging

Docking is the most stressful part of the day. Wind, current, and a crowded marina can turn a relaxing trip into a gelcoat-crunching disaster. The ...
The Long Haul: Flushing, Cooling, and Fuel Filtration Guide

The Long Haul: Flushing, Cooling, and Fuel Filtration Guide

The marine environment is hostile. Saltwater corrodes internal cooling passages, and condensation puts water in your fuel tank. If you ignore these...

Boat Cabin, Galley, & Seats

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Interior of a wooden sailboat cabin featuring a stainless steel Dickinson Marine heater, wood-paneled walls, and views of a foggy marina through the windows

Marine Heater Systems Explained: Diesel, Propane & Solid Fuel Options

There is nothing worse than waking up on your boat and feeling cold air inside the cabin. The windows are wet with condensation, your hands feel st...
Cozy interior of a sailboat cabin at night featuring a modern wood-paneled galley with a stove, organized storage drawers, and warm LED lighting.

Boat Cabin Essentials: Cooking, Lighting & Comfort Accessories for Life on the Water

Imagine pulling into a quiet cove after a full day on the water. The anchor is down. The sun is setting. Now comes the real question: Is your cabin...
Cabin Comforts: Upgrading to LED Lighting, Marine Audio, and Electric Heat

Cabin Comforts: Upgrading to LED Lighting, Marine Audio, and Electric Heat

The difference between a "work boat" and a comfortable cruiser often comes down to the details. If you are sitting in the dark to save battery powe...

Boat Covers & Canopies

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A family and their dog wearing life jackets on a motorboat with a black bimini top installed for shade on a lake.

Bimini Tops for Boats: How to Choose the Right Size, Frame & Fabric

A bimini top is a collapsible canvas canopy mounted on your boat to provide shade from the sun and protection from light rain. Choosing the right o...
The Ultimate Guide to LaPorte Products T-Top Boat Covers

The Ultimate Guide to LaPorte Products T-Top Boat Covers

When it comes to protecting your boat, nothing beats the quality and durability of LaPorte Products T-Top Boat Covers. In this post, we'll explore the different fabric types used in LaPorte's covers, the types of boats they accommodate, the warranty details, and a brief history of the company.

Electric Bimini Tops

Electric Bimini Tops

Enjoy your boat even if it starts to rain or the sun is beating down on you. How? Just a push of a button and you're covered by a beautiful bimini top. Or uncovered if it's more sun you want. In this post we show you the literal ups and downs of electric bimini tops, and more. 


Boat Engine Parts

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Close-up of a technician using a wrench to adjust the belt tension on a marine engine's high-output alternator.

Marine Alternator Explained: Signs of Failure, Sizing a Replacement & Top Brands Compared

A marine alternator converts mechanical energy from your boat’s engine into the electrical power that charges your battery bank and runs your onboa...
Rear view of a white powerboat with tan seats cruising on blue water, showing the outboard motor and wake.

Boat Trim Tabs Explained: How They Work, Sizing Guide & Bennett vs Lenco Compared

Trim tabs are adjustable metal plates mounted on your boat's transom that control the hull's running angle while underway. Lowering the tabs lifts ...
Marine Electrical Safety: Alternators, Switches, and Shore Power

Marine Electrical Safety: Alternators, Switches, and Shore Power

Electricity and water don't mix. But electricity and gasoline fumes are even worse. This is why the number one rule of marine electrical is Ignitio...

Boat Lights & Electical Systems

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Marine electrical system installation featuring deep cycle boat batteries, a red battery disconnect switch, and organized heavy-duty wiring with a fuse block.

Marine Electrical Panels and DC Systems: Power Distribution and Safety Explained

Your marine electrical system is one of the most critical safety systems on your boat. At the center of that system are marine electrical panels, w...
Best Emergency LED Boat Flares

Best Emergency LED Boat Flares

Featured

When an emergency strikes on the water, being seen is crucial. LED boat flares are a safe, reliable alternative to traditional pyrotechnic flares, ensuring visibility for other boaters and the Coast Guard.

Buying The Right Marine Distribution Panel

Buying The Right Marine Distribution Panel

Selecting the right marine electrical distribution panel is essential for ensuring safety and efficiency on your vessel. When purchasing a panel, consider key factors such as safety standards (ABYC, IMCI, CE), power capacity, compatibility with your electrical system, durability, and ease of use.


Boat Maintenance

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Marine Gas Systems – Frequently Asked Questions

Marine Gas Systems – Frequently Asked Questions

Marine Gas System Safety Overview

A properly installed and maintained marine gas system is essential for onboard safety, insurance compliance, and peace of mind. Many boats—especially older vessels or those with DIY modifications—may have gas systems that have not been inspected for years and may rely on outdated, incorrect, or non‑marine‑grade components.

Key risk areas include unsuitable regulators, expired hoses, improper fittings, poor pipe securing, and unsafe cylinder storage. Gas work should only be carried out by competent individuals, as unqualified installations may not be insurable and cannot be certified. Safe systems use LPG‑approved, marine‑grade materials, include proper shut‑off valves and test points, and store cylinders in gas‑tight lockers that drain overboard.

Regular inspection, correct materials, safe operating habits, and the use of gas alarms all play a critical role in reducing risk and ensuring your gas system meets modern safety expectations.

How to Choose the Right Boat Hatches & Hatch Covers for Your Boat

How to Choose the Right Boat Hatches & Hatch Covers for Your Boat

Many boats rely on deck hatches to provide access to storage compartments, bilge areas, and cabin spaces, but not every hatch is designed for every...
Illustration showing marine hardware such as: Deck Fittings, Hatches & Rail Systems

The Ultimate Guide to Marine Hardware: Deck Fittings, Hatches & Rail Systems

If you own a boat, the metal parts on your deck are more important than you think. Marine deck fittings, boat hatches, and marine railing systems k...

Boat Plumbing & Pumps

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Close-up of a boat bilge pump discharging water through a thru-hull fitting into a lake with mountains in the background.

Bilge Pump Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Size, Type & Brand for Your Boat

Choosing the right bilge pump depends on your boat’s length, bilge depth, and how the vessel is used. Most boats under 26 feet need 1,000–1,500 GPH...
Boat Plumbing Systems Explained: Marine Faucets, Toilets, Hose & Washdown Pumps

Boat Plumbing Systems Explained: Marine Faucets, Toilets, Hose & Washdown Pumps

Let's Be Honest: Nobody Thinks About Plumbing Until It Breaks You're out on the water, everything's perfect, and then the head starts smelling like...
Flow State: Upgrading Your Fresh Water, Sanitation, and Hose Systems

Flow State: Upgrading Your Fresh Water, Sanitation, and Hose Systems

A boat is essentially a floating city. It has its own water utility, sewage plant, and fuel grid. When these systems work, it’s paradise. When they...

Boat Streering & Drives

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Boat Steering Maintenance & Replacement: Cables, Helms & Hydraulic Components

When your boat’s steering system starts to wear out, the warning signs are easy to ignore: a little stiffness in the wheel, a bit of extra play, ma...
hydraulic steering kit component laid out for installation;includes black hydraulic cylinder, helm pump, hoses,steering fluid, brass fittings, & installation guide.

Outboard Hydraulic Steering Systems: When to Upgrade and What to Consider

Let's be honest, most boaters don't think about their steering system until it starts fighting back. You're running at full throttle, and the wheel...
marine steering infographic showing mechanical cable steering parts versus hydraulic helm and cylinder components

Boat Steering Systems Explained: Hydraulic vs Mechanical Steering

Whether you use your boat on weekends, go fishing offshore, or have been dealing with a stiff steering wheel all season, knowing how your boat's st...

Recreational Fishing

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Flat lay of commercial crabbing equipment, including pot puller, rope, traps, and buoys

Commercial Fishing Supplies Explained: Shrimping Gear, Crab Pots and Pullers

My Store Admin
Commercial fishing supplies are the working tools behind shrimp and crab fisheries across the United States. From Gulf shrimp boats to Alaska crab ...
Save Your Back: The Ultimate Guide to Crab and Shrimp Pot Pullers

Save Your Back: The Ultimate Guide to Crab and Shrimp Pot Pullers

David Clark
If you are shrimping in 400 feet of water, pulling pots by hand isn't sport; it's torture. To limit out on spot prawns or Dungeness crab without bl...
Rigging for the Haul: Downriggers, Gaffs, and Pro Rods

Rigging for the Haul: Downriggers, Gaffs, and Pro Rods

David Clark
There is fishing, and then there is catching. The difference is usually depth control and reliable gear. At Go2Marine, we stock the hard-to-find co...

Fishing Apparel & Life Jackets

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Two men wearing red and blue Type III life jackets while relaxing on a boat, demonstrating recreational boating safety

Types of Life Jackets and PFDs: The Complete USCG Guide for U.S. Boaters

My Store Admin
Every person on a recreational boat in the United States must have a USCG-approved life jacket or PFD on board. The right choice depends on where y...
Why Industry Pros Are Switching to Tahma Boots

Why Industry Pros Are Switching to Tahma Boots

Cheylan Harris
The New Standard for Grip, Comfort & Durability Whether you’re hauling gear in the Bering Sea, deep‑cleaning tanks in a brewery, navigating w...
Survival Science: Inflatable PFDs vs. Foam Vests

Survival Science: Inflatable PFDs vs. Foam Vests

FeaturedMy Store Admin
The days of the bulky, uncomfortable "orange horse collar" are over. Modern Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are designed so you forget you are we...