We tested several high output models of both the Attwood and Rule Bilge Pumps. A Rule bilge pump can be found in many new boat bilges. For our test of bilge pumps rated over 1400 GPH we pitted three Rule pumps against a pair of high-capacity Attwood pumps. Our five
Top 5 Editorial Picks
Five current fishfinders chosen for distinct buyer needs—from compact value to a premium expandable system. These are editorial selections, not Amazon or reader ratings.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
-
1
Best Compact Value
A straightforward sonar and GPS unit for kayaks, jon boats, and small boats.
- CHIRP and ClearVü scanning sonar in a compact package
- A sensible pick when you do not need a chartplotter or SideVü
- Best fit for budget-conscious small-boat anglers
-
2
Best All-Around 7-Inch Fishfinder
A capable sonar-first choice for anglers who want a useful 7-inch display without moving into a full chartplotter system.
- CHIRP, ClearVü, and SideVü sonar for fish and structure
- Simple setup with a practical 7-inch screen
- Strong value for most general boat anglers
-
3
Best GPS & Chartplotter Upgrade
The mapping step-up for buyers who need confident navigation as well as high-quality scanning sonar.
- Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Inland mapping and touchscreen control
- Ultra High-Definition ClearVü and SideVü sonar
- A better fit than STRIKER when charts matter
-
4
Best Side-Imaging Upgrade
A current 9-inch imaging platform for anglers ready to build around serious side imaging and boat integration.
- MEGA Side Imaging+ and MEGA Down Imaging+
- 9-inch display with touchscreen and keypad control
- Recommended configuration: 9-inch, transducer included
-
5
Best Premium Expandable System
A larger-boat platform for buyers who want premium sonar, mapping, networking, and a serious expansion path.
- Active Imaging HD and C-MAP charting
- Wide networking support for integrated electronics
- Ready to expand with ActiveTarget 2 and the Lowrance ecosystem
Bilge Pumps
Marine Bilge Pumps Rated 700 to 1250 GPH
We fully tested and reviewed seven electric bilge pumps from three different makers in the 700 to 1250 GPH size range. We tested the Attwood V750, V900, and V1250, from Rule the 800, model 20R, and the 1100, model 27D, with two Shurflo Piranha pumps, the 700 and 1000, filling
Marine Bilge Pumps Rated Under 400 GPH
Bilge pumps from three makers, Rule, Whale, and Shurflo each have a pump fitting this flow category; all are rated at less than 400 GPH. Both the Shurflo Piranha 380 and Rule 360, model 24 have vertically orientated motors and snap-on bases designed to mount on a horizontal surface. The
How We Test Electric Bilge Pumps
We gathered actual flow rates and power ratings on all the bilge pumps at two voltages while pumping water into a tank set five feet above the pump using saltwater. Each pump was mounted to our test bench and connected to a fuse panel using the factory wire leads. The
Marine Bilge Pumps Rated 500 to 625 GPH
Bilge Pumps from several makers fit this group. We tested a Shurflo Piranha 500, a pair of Attwood’s the V500 and V625, a Rule 500 model 25D, and a Whale SuperSub 500 model SS5012. Rule and Shurflo all have vertically orientated motors and snap-on bases designed to mount on a
Bilge Pumps Main Page
Our 25′ Contender test boat came from the factory with only one bilge pump. And even though a bilge pump is not marine electronics per se it is still an extremely important piece of marine electrical gear that we cover in our reports. After much research we determined this single
Automatic Bilge Pumps
An automatic bilge pump combines a bilge switch and bilge pump motor in the same housing. We ran a pair of these units through our testing. We tested the Attwood Sahara 1100 and the Lovett 1200. Size and construction of these two units is quite different. The Lovett is by