One thing that should never miss in your bowfishing package is a generator. It will help provide the much-needed light for fishing in the dark, plus it can power other electronics such as your cellphone. So, it is a great backup plan for your trip.
If you want to have an easy time finding the best generator for bowfishing, you have come to the right place. In this article, we shall check out the top units in the market that you can choose from.
After that, we shall provide you with a buying guide to help you make informed decisions.
Let’s start with the products.
Comparison Table
This section contains a selection of generators that we consider to be the top ones around. Please look at the reviews we have done on each of them, and we hope you find one that ticks all the boxes.
Generators for Bowfishing Reviewed
1. Wen 56200i Portable Inverter
- Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 18" | Weight: 48 lbs
- Noise Level: 53 dB operation
- EPA III and CARB Compliant 79.7 cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 2000 surge watts and 1600 rated watts
Are you looking for the perfect budget-friendly generator for bowfishing? If you are, Wen 56200i has the answer to your problems. Even with the fair pricing, this unit is packed with several impressive features that you are sure to appreciate.
Let’s see what they are.
Product Description
The first aspect we shall look at is the lightweight nature of this unit. At only 48lbs, this generator is very portable and will not weigh down your fishing boat.
In addition to that, the Wen generator is one of the quietest such units we have ever come across. It gives out about 51dB, which means that it is silent enough not to scare away the fish.
As if that’s not enough, it has a 79cc engine which gives out 2000 Watts to ensure that it runs for long enough till the end of your expedition.
Other Features and Benefits
Let’s talk about the eco-mode that saves fuel by adjusting the consumption based on the unit’s tank capacity.
And if the power is not enough, you can use the cord included in the package to pair with a second unit.
Lastly, the unit features a carry handle to aid in moving it around.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Relatively quiet
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Often arrives faulty
2. Generac 6866 iQ2000 Inverter
- AC Rated Output(Running/Starting): 1600/2000 Watts; AC Rated Voltage: 120V
- PowerDial integrates start/run/stop functions into 1 easy-to-use dial
- PowerBar monitors and displays wattage used; Electronic Fuel Gauge displays remaining fuel; Runtime Display show how much time is left...
If the quality-control issue in the first product put you off, here is a unit that has taken care of that flaw. The Generac 6866 generator is carb compliant, which means that it has met the quality standards required in the industry.
Let’s see what this product has to offer.
Product Description
First, this generator is designed to offer maximum user-friendliness, and we shall soon see why. The start, stop, and run functions are all integrated into one dial for ease of operation.
Then, the smart LED dashboard displays all relevant information such as the fuel level, generator status, wattage use, and remaining runtime. All these ensure that you are always aware of your unit’s status.
Another thing is that since the engine speed varies with the electrical demand, the noise levels are reduced by a significant degree.
Other Features and Benefits
This unit has three modes of operation, and they are turbo, standard, or economy. Therefore, you can choose the ideal mode according to the task at hand.
You should also be pleased that this unit comes parallel-ready to allow you to connect to another generator if you need more power.
Lastly, it is relatively lightweight and therefore easy to move around.
Pros
- Portable
- Carb compliant
- Three modes of operation
Cons
- Leaks gas easily
3. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Gas Powered
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There is a good reason why this particular unit features on our list of top generators for bowfishing. It is a lightweight and compact unit with sufficient power to light up your bowfishing expeditions.
Here now is a more detailed review of this unit.
Product Description
We shall start by expounding on the generator’s lightweight design. It weighs only 46lbs and has a carry handle to help you move it around more easily. Also, it measures 19.3 by 11.0 by 17.9-inches to make it compact and not take up too much space.
Next up is the inverter system that boosts the fuel efficiency, while the pulse width modulation is vital for better voltage and frequency stability.
Do not worry about loud noise scaring the fish away since the generator features rubber isolation to minimize noise and vibration and gives out about 58dB.
Other Features and Benefits
We were pleased that the unit produces 1,600 Watts of power running and 2,000 Watts starting. This is enough power to light up to 30 light bulbs, which is quite impressive.
Other notable features include the spark arrester to prevent accidental fires while the smart throttle system boosts the unit’s effectiveness as it powers different appliances.
Lastly, the quick-touch panel ensures that all your controls are in one location for easy access.
Pros
- Has a 3-year warranty
- Very quiet
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Quality control issues
4. Westinghouse iGen2200
- 1800 Rated Watts and 2200 Peak Watts at Less Than 3% THD - Weighs Only 47.4 Lbs. - Gas Powered - Two 120V 20 Amp Outlets; Two USB...
- Great Choice for Home Use as an Emergency Backup in a Power Outage - Strong Enough to Run All Your Home Essentials
- Extremely Quiet, Extremely Fuel Efficient: as Low as 52 dBA Noise Output and 12 Hour Run Time on a 1. 2 Gallon Gas Tank - Features...
This is a unit that we consider to be the best portable generator for bowfishing. It is relatively lightweight at 47lbs, compact, and features a built-in comfort handle that makes lifting it the easiest task.
But that’s not all.
Product Description
With a low sound output of 52dB, this generator is ultra-quiet and will not easily scare away your potential catch.
We liked the unit’s fuel-efficiency, whereby it can run for up to 12-hours on a 1.2-gallon gas tank.
Another notable aspect is the versatility whereby you can use this generator for other purposes than fishing. This will give you full value for your money.
Other Features and Benefits
Let-s briefly discuss the parallel design that allows you to connect to several other generators. This feature will come in handy if you ever need more power than what your unit can provide.
We cannot leave out the power output of 2200 peak watts, which is enough for your bowfishing expedition.
Lastly, the product comes with a 3-year warranty for your peace of mind.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Carb compliant
- Ultra-quiet
Cons
- Poor packaging
5. Westinghouse WH2200iXLT
It is easy to be duped into thinking that this small generator has little to offer. In reality, it is one of the most powerful inverter generators on our list, with 1800 rated watts and 2,200 peak watts. So, there is a lot you can achieve with this unit.
Product Description
Besides being a very small generator, it is also lightweight at only 43lbs. So, it should not trouble you carrying it around, nor will it weigh down your boat.
If you hate the annoying noise common in generators, you will be pleased with how quiet this particular unit is. The noise output of 52dB is fairly low and will not annoy you or scare the fish away.
The other notable feature we should talk about is the fuel-efficiency. If the 1.3-gallon tank is full and running at 25% load, it can run for up to 13-hours.
Other Features and Benefits
This generator is parallel-capable, meaning that you could always draw power from other units should the need ever arise.
Finally, the product is backed by a 3-year warranty, while the manufacturer will offer you lifetime technical support to boost your confidence in its quality.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Excellent customer support
- Decent power output
Cons
- Leaks oil easily
6. Pulsar G2319N 2 Gas-Powered
- 2,300 peak watts/ 1,800 running watts
- Capable of up to 4.8 hours of operation at Half Load on 1.18 gallons of fuel
- Compact suitcase design, weighing less than 47 lbs For easy handling
Closing down our list is a unit that would be perfect if you wish to remain unnoticed on the fishing grounds. This is due to the quiet operation at 59dB, whereby it is silent from about 10ft away.
Let’s see what else we can get from this generator.
Product Description
This is one of the user-friendliest generators we came across in our analysis. Its controls are conveniently located to give you a comfortable time operating the unit.
Next up is the sine wave technology that provides clean and safe electrical energy that you can use to power and charge electronic devices such as laptops and phones.
It has a power output capacity of 2300 peak watts/1800 running watts plus can give up to 4.8 hours runtime at half load on 1.8 gallons of fuel in the tank.
Other Features and Benefits
You should surely be pleased with the parallel design that allows you to connect with other generators to provide you with extra power if needed.
We liked how the generator comes in a compact suitcase design and this, coupled with the 47lbs weight, means that handling it should be very easy.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Quiet operation
- Parallel capable
Cons
- Short runtime
Buying Guide to the Perfect Generator for Bowfishing
Before you settle for a particular bowfishing generator, there are several factors that you have to consider. If you get these aspects right, you will be on the right track towards finding the perfect unit for your bowfishing trip.
I) Power
The first thing you should focus on is the amount of power that the unit can generate. In general, generators’ power capacities range from 1500 to 3500 watts, and your choice should depend on the use that you want to put the unit to.
It would not make sense to go for a unit that would not generate sufficient power to meet all your needs.
II) Size
Here, we are talking about the physical size, and we recommend that you go for a compact unit that you can easily carry on and off your boat by yourself. The typical generator we are used to at home may be too large and heavy to be carried around by an individual.
If you want an easy time moving your generator around, avoid going for anything beyond 50lbs as it would make things difficult for you.
III) Noise
You should also avoid getting a generator that will make a lot of noise as it powers your lights throughout the expedition. The rumbling noise will easily scare away the fish and is also likely to be a constant pain to your eardrum.
Always check each unit’s noise level, which is measured in decibels. The lower the decibels, the quieter the generator is likely to be, and vice versa.
IV) Fuel efficiency
The fuel economy will determine whether the generator can last you through the entire fishing period. In most cases, you will find units with a run time of up to 12-hours on a single, full gas tank.
If you are lucky enough, you may find one that can run for up to 24-hours and beyond. Just be sure that your pick does not die down mid-way through the fishing trip.
V) Parallel Capability
It is normal to need more power than what your generator can provide. A unit with a parallel-capable design allows you to draw more power from other sources, and this will help you get through the entire venture that needed the power.
VI) Durability
Also, look for a well-built unit that will not fall apart within a short period. If you do so, it will be a while before you head back to the shops looking for a new generator.
FAQs
Let us now attempt to answer some common queries regarding the best generators for bowfishing. We hope that you learn something new from this section.
Q: Why do I need a generator when bowfishing?
A: There are several reasons for having a generator when fishing. The first one is to provide you with light when darkness creeps in while you are still out there. Then, you could use the unit to power your cellphone to entertain you as you fish out there.
Lastly, you could use the generator for cooking so that you do not starve out there.
Q: Can I make my bowfishing generator quieter?
A: Yes, you can, and there are two methods you could use. First, you could attach a car exhaust muffler to the generator’s exhaust and then point it away from you. The other method involves housing the generator in a three-sided ventilated box to dampen the vibrations while allowing the noise to escape from the box’s open side.
You could avoid the above processes by investing in a unit that is already as quiet as you wish.
Q: Can I use two generators in my bowfishing venture?
A: Yes, you can, provided that they are parallel-capable. This feature will allow you to connect several generators to provide more power for your bowfishing venture.
Our Top Pick
According to our analysis, the ideal product overall is Wen 56200i Portable Inverter Generator. It is a lightweight unit with very impressive power output and is parallel-capable to allow you to connect it with other generators.
It also has a quiet-operating design to ensure the vibrations do not stress you out.
Most of all, the unit is budget-friendly, and anyone can afford it.
Closing Remarks
In summary, the best generator for bowfishing is a necessary investment for your outdoors ventures. Not only will it provide the light for a successful venture, but it can help you power any other electronics that you may be carrying with you.
If you want to save time finding the right item, check out the units we have reviewed as they are all of top quality, and it is hard to go wrong with any of them. Finally, always read independent reviews so that you know what previous customers think about a particular unit.
