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Help, I'll make this simple

All I currently have is GPS, Bilge pump, Nav/stern lights, and at the most I would add an AM FM stereo and a "cigarette lighter" for cell phone charging.

No trolling motors/fish finders or other items.

Do you think I could get away with one deep cycle battery?

Thanks.

I am actually going to be in the water in 5 days for the first time in 3 years!

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I am a believer in one battery for smaller boats unless there is an electric trolling motor involved.

You don't mention what engine you have.
Can you emergency rope start your engine?
Most older OMC's and other manufacturers have the capability to emergency rope start the engine.
If you can emergency rope start your engine, there is no need for 2 batteries.
See this thread.
http://www.whalercentral.com/forum/vi...post_45064

I use one Starting battery only on my Outrage 18' with a 150hp Evinrude and an 8hp Evinrude kicker.
No need for a deep cycle in my opinion.

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I have two (group 24), but you should be fine with one. I also carry a one group 28 in the cooler for one of the ELEC-TRA-MATE reels, when fishing bottom.. hence my email name [sebastes]

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1995 Mercury ELPTO (reconditioned from top to bottom) New engine to me.

I'm thinking that if I am going to be going out on a long run, I might pick up a rechargeable starting pack.

Thanks guys.

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One battery should do it. I would put in a fixed "VHF" Marine radio in place of the "Am/Fm Stereo".

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I have a VHF Icom rechargeable hand held, so I am hold off on that install. Thanks.

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I think it depends if you trailer or not. I keep my Montauk docked at my second home. I think it a good idea to use two batteries on any non-self-bailing boat with a bilge pump, if you leave the boat in the water that is...

If heavy rains drain a battery before you can get down to tend to the boat, you have the second battery to switch to, or to start up.

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Use a PWC battery as a back up. They have lots of power and are much much lighter. Use it for your accessories and install a battery switch or just keep it as a spare. Just remember if you have it for a spare the terminal ends are much smaller the a bigger battery so you will have to compensate for that.

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Given that the originator has a classic Montauk, if left in the water where rainfall is a possibility, I recommend pulling the bilge plug. While a small amount of water will remain in the bilge, any additional water will drain out. No need to risk a drained battery and a hull full of water.

I had a similar setup on my 1987 Montauk and when left on an out-haul for a few days, I just pulled the drain plug. The k.i.s. principle in action.

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One battery, type 24 starting is all you should ever need.

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My second battery keeps the shrimp alive.

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I am a big fan of backup, I run a group 24 starting for the main and a type 24 deep cycle for all of the electrical. Overkill?

Yeah but I'd rather have a spare.

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x10 on 1 battery. Go boating!! :grin

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My opinion 2 batts if going anywhere offshore. Having a backup is a must if going alone. Safety and security = guaranteed fun. The weight and cost are minimal. My 2 cents...

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Thank you everyone!

I am going with 3 batteries..... I think I am going to need an inverter to run the computer and have internet underway to make sure I am on track with what I am trying to do!

I am going to KISS it. One battery!

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You'll have peace of mind, and they're handy to have around even without the boat.