Understanding Marine Electronics: A Beginner’s Guide to Your Boat’s Tech

Michael Cheser

Content Marketing Supervisor

Modern boats are equipped with a suite of advanced electronics designed to enhance navigation, communication, safety, and entertainment. At the heart of this innovation on every Sportsman Boat is the SportLink® Electronics Integration System. It is a comprehensive network that seamlessly integrates all onboard electronics, including chartplotters, sonar, VHF radios, audio systems, digital switching, and stabilization systems. This centralized approach simplifies operations, ensuring every feature works together to provide an exceptional boating experience. Let’s break down the individual components of this system to help you better understand your boat’s technology.

Chartplotters and GPS Systems

Chartplotters are essential tools for safe and efficient navigation. These devices display your boat's position on a digital map using GPS data, allowing you to plan routes, avoid hazards, and explore new waters confidently. Sportsman Boats feature Garmin GPSMAP® Chartplotters, including the 1243xsv, 1643xsv and 9222 models, which offer high-resolution displays up to 4K, preloaded coastal charts, and compatibility with additional mapping options. Integrated through SportLink®, these chartplotters work seamlessly with other electronics to keep you informed and in control.

Sonar Systems

Sonar is used to provide real-time visuals of what’s beneath your boat, including fish, underwater structures, and bottom contours. On Sportsman Boats, sonar systems are enhanced by transducers like the Garmin GT12M CHIRP Thru-Hull Transducer, Garmin GT15M CHIRP Thru-Hull Transducer and Airmar B175M 1kW CHIRP Thru-Hull Transducer, each designed to optimize performance. The GT12M is ideal for midsize fishing and cruising boats, featuring a flush design that reduces drag and ensures precise sonar readings. Its water temperature sensor delivers rapid-response readings, and installation is made simple with Garmin ID (GID) auto-identification. For those who venture into deeper waters, the GT15M provides additional power, making it a great choice for midsize and larger fishing boats. This transducer also features CHIRP sonar technology, which enhances depth penetration and target resolution, reaching depths of up to 1,500 feet. Both options integrate seamlessly with SportLink® system, ensuring accurate data is displayed on your chartplotter for easy interpretation.

VHF Radios

A reliable VHF radio is one of the most important safety tools on any boat, allowing communication with other vessels, marinas, and emergency services. Sportsman Boats include Garmin VHF Radios, such as the Garmin VHF 115 and Garmin VHF 215, which offer clear communication channels and vital features like NOAA weather updates and DSC (Digital Selective Calling) for emergency signaling. The DSC function is particularly valuable, as it allows you to send an automated distress signal with your vessel’s location at the press of a button. Integrated through SportLink®, these radios ensure seamless communication and peace of mind on the water.

Audio Entertainment Systems

A high-quality audio system can elevate your time on the water, whether you’re fishing, cruising, or entertaining guests. Sportsman Boats feature the SportTuun® Audio System, which combines a Fusion Apollo marine stereo head unit with premium JL Audio speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers. This system delivers crystal-clear sound and allows for multi-zone audio control, Bluetooth connectivity, and intuitive operation through SportLink®. Designed for the marine environment, SportTuun® ensures your favorite music sounds incredible while withstanding the harsh conditions of life on the water.

Digital Switching Systems

Digital switching replaces traditional switches with an electronic interface, streamlining the operation of your boat’s electrical systems. On Sportsman Boats, digital switching systems vary by model size. Boats 25 feet and under use the Maretron MPower® Digital Switching Platform, this system offers not only a touch display on the screen but a soft touch keypad for added redundancy. Boats 26 feet and up are equipped with the SeaStar Interact DCM Digital Switching System. Both systems allow centralized control of lighting, pumps, and other systems through an intuitive display, reducing wiring complexity and improving reliability. An added note to mention is all of our digital switching systems have a redundancy within the console in case of screen failure, you'll always be able to retain full control of your boats electrical systems. This is all integrated into SportLink® system, this ensures that operating your boat’s electrical systems is simple and efficient.

Stabilization Systems

Boating in rough waters can be challenging, but stabilization systems make the ride smoother and more enjoyable. Sportsman Boats include Seakeeper Ride as a standard feature on all models. This Vessel Attitude Control System (VACS) is housed in a specially designed pocket, ensuring a seamless fit while significantly reducing pitch and roll. For larger models (26 feet and up), a Seakeeper Gyro is available as an optional upgrade. This advanced gyroscopic stabilization system counters wave motion, providing unmatched comfort and stability during your journey. Both systems integrate seamlessly into SportLink®, allowing for easy monitoring and adjustments.

The SportLink® Electronics Integration System is the ultimate tool for integrating and managing your boat’s advanced electronics. By connecting chartplotters, sonar, VHF radios, audio systems, digital switching, and stabilization features, SportLink® simplifies operations and enhances your overall experience on the water. Whether you’re navigating, fishing, or relaxing, these systems work together to ensure your boat performs at its best.

Which feature are you most excited to explore on your next boating adventure? Share your thoughts in the comments below!