If you are an angler, then you know that a bilge pump can discreetly pump out the water that everyone seems to forget about.
These pumps can do it both manually and automatically. The best bilge pumps are literally lifesavers and we have come up with the perfect guide to help you pick the right one.
Top-Rated Bilge Pumps in 2023: Comparison Table
To enjoy your fishing or fun kayaking session, you need to bank on the best bilge pumps available. Here’s a list of 12 such.
| Ranking | Name | Dimension | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Sports Bilge Paddlers Pump | 21 x 1.8 x 1 inches | 12 ounces |
| 2 | Rule 02 Marine Bilge Pump | 5.2 x 6 x 4.5 inches | 51.2 ounces |
| 3 | Seasense Hose Hand Bilge Pump | 3.5 x 4.5 x 20.8 inches | 25.6 ounces |
| 4 | attwood 4612-7 Tsunami T1200 Bilge Pump | 6.5 x 3.8 x 8.5 inches | 16 ounces |
| 5 | Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump 600 GPH | 8.2 x 5.7 x 3.4 inches | 9.6 ounces |
| 6 | Rule 24 Submersible Bilge Pump | 7 x 5.5 x 2 inches | 11.4 ounces |
| 7 | attwood 4608-7 Tsunami T800 Bilge Pump | 8 x 6 x 3 inches | 9.6 ounces |
| 8 | attwood Corporation Bilge Pump | 7.4 x 10.9 x 8.6 inches | 19.2 ounces |
| 9 | attwood Bilge Pump 500Gph Tsunami | 8 x 6 x 3 inches | 9.6 ounces |
| 10 | ECO-WORTHY 1100GPH 12V Marine Bilge Pump | – | 14.4 ounces |
| 11 | Aurelio Tech Marine 12V Electric Bilge Pump | – | 15.2 ounces |
| 12 | MAXZONE Submersible Boat Bilge Water Pump | – | 13.6 ounces |
1. Seattle Sports Bilge Paddlers Pump
The Seattle Sports Bilge Paddlers Pump is made with small vessels in mind. You can operate it easily, though manually.
In addition, it performs really quickly and gets rid of small flood vessels. Another notable feature is that it features an ergonomic handle that is easy to hold so you can use it for a long time without getting tired.
What’s more, this pump is lightweight, which makes it portable and super easy to store. No need to worry about losing this unit in water because it has a bright color, which makes it easily visible. Unfortunately, hooking this pump to a hose is a bit difficult.
Pros
- Visible color
- Comfortable handle
- Very portable
Cons
- Manual
2. Rule Marine 1500 GPH NON-Automatic Bilge Pump
Rule Marine 1500 GPH NON-Automatic Bilge Pump is specially designed for medium and small-sized boats. The good thing it comes in three different models to choose from. On top of that, this bilge pump comes with a three-year warranty from the manufacturer.
More importantly, this unit runs dry without getting destroyed. Besides that, it is super easy to use and maintain. Finally, when cleaning removing clogs and cleaning the pump, you can easily remove the motor cartridge.
Pros
- Durable
- Completely submersible
- Three models
- Three-year warranty
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Manual
3. Seasense Hose Hand Bilge Pump
Seasense Hose Hand Bilge Pump is also manual and comes at an affordable price. It is available in multiple sizes and features a 20-70 inch removable hose. The pump’s handle is big enough so you can manually and easily pump out the water.
On top of that, the handle is curved and has a sturdy construction so it can withstand any impact. So, you can pump as hard without having to worry about the handle. Further, this unit can pump 40 gallons of water under three minutes, which makes it an excellent option for medium and small-sized boats.
The only downside is that the hose is not too strong, but other than that, this bilge pump is a great option.
Pros
- Affordable
- Quite powerful
- Easy to use
- Can access tight areas
Cons
- Cheap hose
Also read: 10 Best Electric Fish Fillet Knife: Our Top Picks + Buying Guide & Best Baitcasting Reel Under $200 Reviewed: Our Top 10 List
4. Tsunami Bilge T1200 Pump
Tsunami Bilge T1200 Pump is another reliable model that is quite efficient in keeping your boat dry and clean. Just like most pumps on this list, this unit is compatible with a regular ¾ hose. Further, the pump lacks a switch for quick checks or manual operation.
It comes in three different sizes 1200 GPH and 500 GPH. All these sizes have a similar hose size apart form the largest unit. This makes a great choice, even for the largest boats. Most importantly, it comes at an affordable price without sacrificing reliability and performance.
Pros
- Affordable
- Three size options
- Automatic
- Reliable
Cons
- Too large
5. Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump
Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump is practical yet compact with a water flow limit of 600 gallons in one hour. This is quite advantageous for small boats since it does not occupy too much space. Besides that, it features a universal mounting design, which makes it super easy to uninstall.
The Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump serves as a safety and proper maintenance accessory. Further, this model has stainless steel hardware and mounting bracket, making it a great choice for such a competitive price.
Another good thing with this unit is that it is relatively quiet than most bilge pumps on the market. Another notable feature is that the Shoreline Marine Bilge Pump is manually operated, but is you want it to work automatically, consider installing a float switch.
Pros
- Moves quickly
- Compact and lightweight
- Universal
- Easy to install
Cons
- Not very durable
6. Rule Submersible 24 Bilge Pump
Rule Submersible 24 Bilge Pump weighs 12 ounces only and is specially made for smaller boats. This economically priced pump has a 350 GPH and 12-volt plug, so in terms of capacity, it might not stand out, but it is quite reliable.
Additionally, it lacks an inbuilt switch since it is designed to operate manually. This means if you need to operate it automatically, you need to get a switch. On the bright side, this unit is super effective in removing every last drop of water.
Besides that, it features a standard output size diameter, which makes installing the Rule Submersible 24 Bilge Pump a breeze. Finally it comes with a 3-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Pros
- Economically priced
- Lightweight and compact
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
- Ideal for all types of waters
Cons
- Not ideal for large boats
7. Attwood Tsunami 4608-7 Bilge Pump
Next up is the Attwood Tsunami 4608-7 Bilge Pump. This unit has a compact and innovative design that offers a great pumping performance. Further, it is quite powerful and can pump around 800 gallons in one hour.
On top of that, the unit has high-quality bearings, magnets and allows, which makes it durable. Another notable feature is that the pump’s shaft seal is patented, which helps to prevent any leakage that can be caused by misalignment.
Moreover, Attwood Tsunami 4608-7 Bilge Pump tinned and caulked wiring makes it corrosion resistant and also protects it against water damage. Finally, the motor cores are interchangeable and replaceable, which makes it easy to maintain.
Pros
- Fast pumping
- Easy to maintain
- Durable
Cons
- A bit pricey
8. Attwood S1100 Sahara 4511-7 Automatic Bilge Pump
Next up is the Attwood S1100 Sahara 4511-7 Automatic Bilge Pump. This unit is quite effective in clearing the water that gets on board. It operates with a power of 12 volts, so its powerful enough to clear all the water quickly.
This pump is switched on automatically. In addition, it features an internal float piece that is filled with air that alerts the pump when the water level reaches a particular point. It continues to pump until the water drops to a certain level.
The Attwood S1100 Sahara 4511-7 Automatic Bilge Pump weighs 1.1 pounds, which is quite light for an automatic bilge pump. Finally, it has two mounting holes which makes it easy for you to mount the pump.
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to install
- Comes in three different models
- Automatic system
Cons
- Not ideal for bigger boats
9. Attwood 4606-7 Corporation Bilge Pump
If you are good at maintaining units, the Attwood 4606-7 Corporation Bilge Pump is a great option. The good thing with these models is that it is easy to repair, which means it can be used for many years and still maintain good condition.
On top of that, this manual bilge pump uses 12 volts so it can pump fast and effectively. What’s more,Attwood 4606-7 Corporation Bilge Pump uses interchangeable motor core and replacement cartilages, which make it easy to maintain.
Further, it is available in three different models, which allow you to choose the most suitable model for your boat. 1200 GPH is the most powerful among the three units.
Pros
- Resists clogging
- Dual filter base
- Comes in three different models
- Easy and quick to maintain
10. Eco-worthy Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Pump
The Eco-worthy Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Pump is completely submersible in water and is powerful enough to clear all the water. Further, this unit is corrosion and rust resistant for increased durability.
What’s more, the Eco-worthy Automatic Submersible Boat Bilge Pump has an inbuilt control system that makes it more reliable and efficient.
Pros
- Completely submersible
- Easy to use
- Durable
- easy to clean
Cons
- A bit pricey
11. Aurelio Tech Marine 12V Electric Bilge Pump
Aurelio Tech Marine 12V Electric Bilge Pump is budget-friendly and submersible, just like the name implies. On good thing with this pump is that it is quite high powered and costs the same as a manual bilge pump.
This is a great choice for those with large boats and needs to get rid of all the water. On top of that, the pump can be submerged in the water fully and still perform efficiently. What’s more, the unit is reliable and durable.
So, with proper maintenance, this Aurelio Tech Marine 12V Electric Bilge Pump can last for years. Some customers have reported that setting it up can be a bit tricky, but when it comes to functionality, no complains whatsoever.
Pros
- High power
- Durable
- Completely submersible
- Affordable price
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not automatic
12. Maxzone Water Submersible Bilge Water Pump
The last item on this list is the Maxzone Water Submersible Bilge Water Pump. If you are searching for a cheap bilge water pump that provides high power, this might be a good option. The good thing is that it can be completely submerged in water without getting destroyed.
This unit is suitable for cruisers, yachts, runabouts, and fishing boats, fishing kayak. The Maxzone Water Submersible Bilge Water Pump is designed for harsh water environments since it can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Another notable feature is that this bilge pump features a water-cooled, heavy-duty motor and robust stainless steel shafts that ensure it lasts long and stays in the best condition. Then there’s the snap-lock base that makes it easy to install and remove.
Finally, the Maxzone Water Submersible Bilge Water Pump does not burn out when it runs dry and comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
Pros
- Lifetime warranty
- Durable
- Completely submersible
- Easy to install
Cons
- No inbuilt switch
Buying Guide for Best Bilge Pumps
You need to consider a few important factors if you want to buy the best bilge pumps. They include:
Installation and Access
You want to install your bilge pump in a part of your boat that is easily accessible to make cleaning and maintenance easier.
That said, you also want the pump to be installed where there will be more water unless you do not want it to eliminate all the water in the bilge.
Pump Material
Your pump will be in constant contact with water and it therefore needs to be made of suitable material. Seawater contains many things that could damage a pump.
We recommend getting a casing pump made from ABS plastic because it is known to be corrosion resistant and durable as well. Besides that, it will safeguard the wires coming from the pump and its ignition.
Pump Capacity
The main thing that differentiates pumps is how much water they can pump out at a time and this is a figure that can be measured and displayed by electric pumps.
GPH or gallon per hour is the figure that measures how much water is pumped out each hour. AS you search for a pump for your boat, you want to get one that has at least a GPH of 1000 unless your boat is small.
If bilge compartment is bigger or your boat is bigger, you may want to get more bilge pumps or increase the GPH.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We believe you have several questions that have to do with bilge pumps and we would love to answer each one of them.
However, since it is not possible to do that here, we have answered a few that can direct you on the right path.
Are Bilge Pumps Noisy?
Not as such, but when you are on a boat, there will be many other noises surrounding you such as the banter of people on board your boat, speakers, or cutting waves.
Even if your pump produces any noises, it is highly unlikely that they will be a bother.
Do bilge pumps automatically come on?
Not all of them do, but most pumps come with an automatic float that senses when water gets into the bilge and automatically turns the pump on.
Best Choice – Our Top Choice
The Seattle Sports Bilge Paddlers Pump is easily our best choice because it is handy and ergonomic. It’s relatively easy to install and most importantly built to last. So we agree with other Amazon reviewers that this one is indeed a good pump to have.
Final Thoughts
As long as you are in the boating world, you cannot escape the fact that bilge pumps are there to protect you from water that you forget about.
Without this pump, you risk sinking your boat with whatever is on board including yourself. This guide is designed to help you pick the perfect pump for your boat based on its size.
With all the information you have, there is no way you are going to make the wrong choice.