Hunting Washington Forum

Other Activities => Fishing => Topic started by: Pete112288 on June 07, 2024, 04:37:21 PM

Title: How to make a livewell?
Post by: Pete112288 on June 07, 2024, 04:37:21 PM: So I am trying to make a livewell in my new boat between 2 existing box compartments.
I have Googled it and looked on YouTube. It's all based off of using coolers, Rubbermaid containers or such.
Nothing seems to fit my space well or is bulky.
I have tried even looking at using extra large restaurant bus bins and such. Pre made livewells are spendy.
I'm trying to keep it cheap. Thought about building out of cabinet plywood and coating inside and out with linex or something.
But I would really prefer a hefty plastic of some sort.
Ideal size exterior would be 17" or 17.5" by 18" or 19" by 12" or so tall.
Any ideas or experiences?
I have the pump figured out and can figure out a lid myself. Just need to find the right size box.
I would really like to have one I can set in place and remove if I want to. Basically just a solid plastic box that size.
Thank ya much!
Title: Re: How to make a livewell?
Post by: Stein on June 07, 2024, 08:30:50 PM: Fiberglass is pretty cheap, any size you want.

I just put an aerator in an existing fish box. You could also just go with a 5 gallon bucket or two depending on how often you need it. I maybe use mine twice a year and it's more to entertain the kids.
Title: Re: How to make a livewell?
Post by: HUNTIN4SIX on June 08, 2024, 11:52:49 AM: Fiberglass is the best bet. My dad made a live well outta fiberglass 30+ years ago and it’s still holding up.
Title: Re: How to make a livewell?
Post by: Sundance on June 08, 2024, 12:19:06 PM: Pm sent
Title: Re: How to make a livewell?
Post by: Pete112288 on June 08, 2024, 07:28:58 PM: Thank ya'll!
Title: Re: How to make a livewell?
Post by: dilleytech on June 10, 2024, 09:05:30 AM: I would look for a smaller 20gallon or so plastic chemical barrel. It doesn’t need to be insulated at all since you will need constant water flow in and out.
Title: Re: How to make a livewell?
Post by: Kola16 on June 10, 2024, 09:32:25 AM: Fiberglass is the best way, but it is NOT cheap. You will be into it at least $150 for the foam rollers, mold material, acetone, resin, fiberglass, and gelcoat. Even more if you want it insulated. What kind of boat is this going in? Fiberglass or aluminum?
Title: Re: How to make a livewell?
Post by: metlhead on June 10, 2024, 11:11:17 AM: Build a simple sheet metal box to fit the space. Secure 1" rigid foam to the inside with glue or epoxy. Line that with another aluminum box. Or you could use one of many sealers over the foam.