Marine Plumbing & Ventilation - Livewell Pumps

A livewell pump is a water circulation device designed to keep bait and caught fish alive in an onboard tank by continuously moving oxygenated water through the livewell. Livewell pumps pull fresh water in, circulate it, and often aerate it to maintain healthy oxygen levels for the fish.

Livewell pumps are designed for anglers who fish from boats and need to keep live bait or caught fish healthy during a trip. Tournament bass fishermen, saltwater anglers, and anyone running a dedicated livewell system will benefit most from a quality livewell pump setup.

Start by measuring your livewell tank volume in gallons, then choose a livewell pump rated for a GPH output that can cycle the full tank volume several times per hour. Also confirm the pump voltage matches your boat's electrical system, typically 12V for most recreational vessels.

A livewell pump circulates water through the tank by pulling in fresh water and expelling old water, while an aerator adds oxygen directly into the existing water using air diffusion. Many livewell systems use both together — a pump for water exchange and an aerator to boost dissolved oxygen levels.

Mount the livewell pump below the waterline or in a position where the intake can draw water from outside the hull, then connect the intake and output hoses securely before wiring the pump to a 12V power source with an appropriate inline fuse. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific pump model.

The GPH rating you need for a livewell pump depends on the size of your livewell tank — a general rule is to select a pump that can cycle the full tank volume at least four to six times per hour. Larger livewells holding 25 gallons or more typically require higher-output pumps to maintain adequate water quality.

Yes, many livewell pumps are built to handle saltwater use, but you should always verify that the pump materials are rated for saltwater or marine environments before purchasing. Saltwater-compatible pumps use corrosion-resistant components that hold up against the harsh effects of salt exposure over time.

Livewell pumps are worth it for any angler who regularly uses live bait or wants to keep fish alive for catch-and-release, since proper water circulation dramatically improves survival rates. Even on shorter trips, a reliable livewell pump reduces stress on fish and helps bait stay active and attractive to target species.

Rinse the livewell pump thoroughly with fresh water after every saltwater or brackish water use to prevent salt buildup and corrosion. Periodically inspect the intake screen for debris, check hose connections for wear, and store the pump in a dry location during the off-season to extend its service life.

Yes, a portable aerator can work as an alternative to a built-in livewell pump for smaller tanks or for anglers who fish from kayaks, jon boats, or other vessels without a dedicated livewell system. However, portable aerators are generally better suited for buckets and small containers rather than large onboard livewells that require significant water flow and exchange.