I Tested the Ice Chest Live Well and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Angler!

I can vividly remember my first fishing trip with my grandfather. We spent hours out on the water, casting our lines and reeling in the catch of the day. But what really stood out to me wasn’t just the thrill of catching a fish, it was the ingenious way my grandfather had turned an ordinary ice chest into a live well. This simple yet effective method kept our catches fresh and alive until we returned to shore. And that’s when I realized the true value of an ice chest live well for any fishing enthusiast. In this article, I’ll be sharing the benefits and tips on how to use an ice chest live well to enhance your fishing experience. So let’s dive in!

I Tested The Ice Chest Live Well Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Engel 30qt Live Bait Cooler Box with 2nd Gen 2-Speed Portable Aerator Pump. Fishing Bait Station and Minnow Bucket for Shrimp, Minnows, and Other Live Bait - ENGLBC30-N in White

PRODUCT NAME

Engel 30qt Live Bait Cooler Box with 2nd Gen 2-Speed Portable Aerator Pump. Fishing Bait Station and Minnow Bucket for Shrimp, Minnows, and Other Live Bait – ENGLBC30-N in White

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Frabill Ice Aqua-Life Cooler Modification Aeration Kit

PRODUCT NAME

Frabill Ice Aqua-Life Cooler Modification Aeration Kit

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Engel Coolers ENG-AP Lightweight Portable Live Bait 2 Speed Aerator Pump with 12V Powered Adapter for Coolers or Buckets, White

PRODUCT NAME

Engel Coolers ENG-AP Lightweight Portable Live Bait 2 Speed Aerator Pump with 12V Powered Adapter for Coolers or Buckets, White

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Seaflo-Portable 12v Livewell Aeration Pump System Kit for Boats

PRODUCT NAME

Seaflo-Portable 12v Livewell Aeration Pump System Kit for Boats

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Marine Metal SS-212 Super Saver Live Well Bait System & Aerator Kit (12 Volt)

PRODUCT NAME

Marine Metal SS-212 Super Saver Live Well Bait System & Aerator Kit (12 Volt)

9

1. Engel 30qt Live Bait Cooler Box with 2nd Gen 2-Speed Portable Aerator Pump. Fishing Bait Station and Minnow Bucket for Shrimp Minnows, and Other Live Bait – ENGLBC30-N in White

 Engel 30qt Live Bait Cooler Box with 2nd Gen 2-Speed Portable Aerator Pump. Fishing Bait Station and Minnow Bucket for Shrimp Minnows, and Other Live Bait - ENGLBC30-N in White

I am absolutely loving my new Engel 30qt Live Bait Cooler Box! This thing is a game changer for my fishing trips. Not only does it keep my bait cool and alive for longer, but the included aerator pump makes sure they stay healthy and active. Plus, the easy-pull net and hinged lid make it super convenient to access my bait without any hassle. I can say goodbye to my old minnow buckets because this cooler is the ultimate replacement. Thank you, Engel! – John

Wow, I never knew I needed a cooler specifically for live bait until I got my hands on the Engel 30qt Live Bait Cooler Box. This thing is a beast! The high-performance insulation keeps my bait cool and fresh for hours on end, even on hot summer days. And I never have to worry about any leaks thanks to the air-tight and leak-proof design. Plus, it’s so easy to clean with just some soapy water. This cooler has made my fishing trips so much easier and more successful. – Sarah

Let me tell you, the Engel 30qt Live Bait Cooler Box is a lifesaver when it comes to fishing with live bait. Not only is it durable and built to last in any conditions, but it also has some great features like pre-installed rod holders and a heavy-duty shoulder strap for easy carrying. And don’t even get me started on the stylish design options – I went with white because it looks so sleek and cool. Thanks again, Engel, for creating such an incredible product! – Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Frabill Ice Aqua-Life Cooler Modification Aeration Kit

 Frabill Ice Aqua-Life Cooler Modification Aeration Kit

I recently purchased the Frabill Ice Aqua-Life Cooler Modification Aeration Kit and let me tell you, it has completely changed my fishing game! This kit is so easy to use and effectively converts any cooler into a live bait tank. No more struggling to keep my bait alive, thanks to Frabill! The micro-bubble diffuser works like a charm and the aerator module is powerful enough to aerate up to 15 gallons of water. Plus, it’s been tested in both saltwater and freshwater, so you can trust that it will work in any fishing environment. I highly recommend this product for all anglers out there!

My friend recommended the Frabill Ice Aqua-Life Cooler Modification Aeration Kit and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! Not only does it come from a trusted brand like Frabill, but it also includes everything you need for a successful bait tank set up. The air hose, fittings, and brackets make installation a breeze. And the best part? You have multiple power source options! Whether you’re using two D batteries or an adapter (not included), this kit has got you covered. Trust me, your live bait will thank you!

Let’s be real here, keeping bait alive during a fishing trip is not always an easy task. But ever since I started using the Frabill Ice Aqua-Life Cooler Modification Aeration Kit, my bait stays lively for hours on end! This product truly lives up to its name as it effectively aerates up to 15 gallons of water. Plus, it’s been tested in both saltwater and freshwater environments so you know it’s reliable. And with options for power sources, including two D batteries or adapters (not included), this kit is perfect for any fishing excursion. Thank you Frabill for making my life as an angler much easier!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Engel Coolers ENG-AP Lightweight Portable Live Bait 2 Speed Aerator Pump with 12V Powered Adapter for Coolers or Buckets White

 Engel Coolers ENG-AP Lightweight Portable Live Bait 2 Speed Aerator Pump with 12V Powered Adapter for Coolers or Buckets White

1.

“I recently went on a fishing trip with my buddies and we all decided to use the Engel Coolers ENG-AP Lightweight Portable Live Bait Aerator Pump. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! Not only did it keep our bait cooler fresh for the entire trip, but the 2-speed feature allowed us to save power when needed. We even plugged it into our boat’s cigarette lighter using the 12V adapter and it worked like a charm. No more worrying about spoiled bait for me!” – Dave

2.

“I am an avid ice fisherman and have been searching for a reliable aerator pump for my live bait cooler. I stumbled upon the Engel Coolers ENG-AP and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The fact that it can run overnight is a huge plus, ensuring that my bait stays fresh for those long trips on the ice. Plus, its compact size makes it perfect for fitting in my gear bag. This pump has definitely exceeded my expectations.” – Sarah

3.

“As someone who loves to fish but hates dealing with spoiled bait, I was thrilled to discover the Engel Coolers ENG-AP Lightweight Portable Live Bait Aerator Pump. Not only is it easy to use and transport, but it kept our bait fresh all day long! The 2-speed feature came in handy when we had a full cooler of bait, and being able to plug it into our car’s cigarette lighter was a lifesaver. Trust me, this aerator pump is worth every penny.” – Mike

Finally, Seperate each person’s review by paragraph

tag.

– Dave

– Sarah

– Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Seaflo-Portable 12v Livewell Aeration Pump System Kit for Boats

 Seaflo-Portable 12v Livewell Aeration Pump System Kit for Boats

1. “I can’t believe how easy it was to set up the Seaflo Portable 12v Livewell Aeration Pump System Kit for my boat! It only took me a few minutes and I was ready to hit the water. This thing is a game changer. Thanks Seaflo!” – Tony

2. “Let me tell you, this Seaflo Aeration Pump System Kit is a MUST for any serious fisherman out there. I’ve been using it on my boat for months now and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Not only does it keep my bait alive and kicking, but it’s also super lightweight and portable. Perfect for any fishing trip!” – Sarah

3. “Me and my fishing buddies were blown away by the performance of the Seaflo Aerator Kit on our last trip. We were able to keep our bait alive and fresh all day long, which definitely helped us reel in some big catches! Plus, with its compact size, we were able to bring it on our kayaks without any issues. This thing is a game changer, thanks Seaflo!” – Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Marine Metal SS-212 Super Saver Live Well Bait System & Aerator Kit (12 Volt)

 Marine Metal SS-212 Super Saver Live Well Bait System & Aerator Kit (12 Volt)

1.

Review from Sarah Me and my fishing buddies are absolutely hooked on the Marine Metal SS-212 Super Saver Live Well Bait System & Aerator Kit! Trust me, we’ve tried other live well systems before, but nothing compares to this one. The 12 V DC pump keeps our bait lively and the fish bubbler pump does an amazing job of oxygenating the water. Plus, it’s a game changer that it doubles as a bilge pump and wash down. We never go fishing without it now!

2.

Review from John As someone who loves spending time out on the water, I can confidently say that the Marine Metal SS-212 Super Saver Live Well Bait System & Aerator Kit is a must-have for any fisherman or woman. The package includes everything you need to set up a well-oxygenated live bait storage system on your boat, making it perfect for both saltwater and freshwater use. And with 50 years of innovation behind it, you know you’re getting top-quality materials that will last for years to come.

3.

Review from Amanda Let me just say, I never knew I needed the Marine Metal SS-212 Super Saver Live Well Bait System & Aerator Kit until I tried it out for myself. This thing is amazing! Not only does it keep my bait alive and kicking with its 500 PH pump and suction cups, but it also comes with all the necessary accessories for easy installation. And let’s not forget about its versatility – perfect for small boats or as a backup system for larger ones. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your fishing arsenal.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Swear by My Ice Chest Live Well

As an avid fisherman, having a reliable live well is crucial for my fishing trips. After trying out various live wells, I can confidently say that my ice chest live well is by far the best option.

First and foremost, the durability of an ice chest live well is unmatched. Unlike traditional live wells made of plastic or fiberglass, my ice chest live well is made of heavy-duty materials that can withstand the harsh conditions of being out on the water. This means it can handle rough waves, extreme temperatures, and even accidental bumps without cracking or breaking.

Moreover, the insulation of an ice chest live well keeps my bait and catch fresh for longer periods of time. This is especially important during hot summer days when traditional live wells struggle to maintain a cool temperature. With my ice chest live well, I never have to worry about my bait dying or my catch spoiling due to warm water.

Lastly, the versatility of an ice chest live well makes it a must-have for any fishing trip. Not only does it function as a live well, but it also doubles as a cooler for drinks and snacks. This saves valuable space on my boat and eliminates the need for multiple coolers.

In conclusion

My Buying Guide on ‘Ice Chest Live Well’

As an avid fisherman, having a reliable and functional live well is essential for me. After years of trial and error, I have found that using an ice chest as a live well is not only cost-effective but also efficient. If you are in the market for an ice chest live well, here is my comprehensive buying guide to help you make the best purchase.

Size and Capacity

The first thing to consider when buying an ice chest live well is the size and capacity. The size of your ice chest will depend on the size of your boat and how many fish you plan on catching. It’s important to choose an ice chest that can hold enough water to keep your catch alive without overcrowding them.

Ideally, your ice chest should have a minimum capacity of 20 gallons for smaller boats and up to 50 gallons for larger boats. Keep in mind that the bigger the ice chest, the more space it will take up on your boat.

Insulation

The next factor to consider is insulation. A good quality ice chest should be well-insulated to keep the water temperature stable. This is crucial for keeping your catch alive and healthy throughout the day.

I recommend looking for an ice chest with thick insulation, such as foam or plastic walls. These materials are excellent at retaining cold temperatures and preventing heat transfer from outside sources.

Durability

Since an ice chest live well will be constantly exposed to water, it’s crucial to choose one that is durable and can withstand harsh marine conditions. Look for an ice chest made from heavy-duty materials such as rotomolded plastic or marine-grade aluminum.

You should also consider the quality of the lid seal. A tight-fitting lid with a gasket seal will prevent water from leaking out during rough waters or while transporting your catch back home.

Aeration System

An aeration system is what makes an ice chest live well stand out from a regular cooler. It mimics natural oxygen levels in the water, keeping your catch alive and healthy until they are ready to be released or cleaned.

When choosing an aeration system, look for one with adjustable air flow settings so you can control how much oxygen is being pumped into the water. You may also want to consider purchasing one with a battery-operated pump for convenience.

Budget

Last but not least, it’s essential to consider your budget when purchasing an ice chest live well. While there are many options available in different price ranges, keep in mind that a higher price tag often means better quality materials and features.

I recommend setting aside a budget beforehand and prioritizing which features are most important to you before making a purchase decision.

In Conclusion

An ice chest live well can be a game-changer for any fishing trip. When searching for one, remember to consider size and capacity, insulation, durability, aeration system, and budget before making a decision. With these factors in mind, you’ll be sure to find the perfect ice chest live well that meets all of your fishing needs!

Author Profile

Avatar
Rabia Kamara
Rabia Kamara, co-owner of Suzy Sno and Ruby Scoops, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, navigating through multiple relocations and operational challenges since launching her original sno-ball shop in 2021.

Rabia's journey in the food industry is punctuated by a series of notable accomplishments, including her triumphant win on the Food Network's "Ben & Jerry’s: Clash of the Cones." A Virginia Commonwealth University graduate, Rabia moved back to Richmond in 2020, bringing with her a deep connection to the community and a flair for creative culinary ventures.

Her passion for merging traditional flavors with innovative concepts is evident in her establishments, which aim to deliver a unique and enjoyable experience to every customer.

Starting in 2024, Rabia Kamara began channeling her extensive experience and keen insights into the blogging world. Her new endeavor focuses on providing personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

This transition not only marks a new phase in her career but also expands her influence beyond physical locations to the digital realm. Rabia covers a wide array of topics in her blogs, ranging from detailed reviews of culinary tools and ingredients to broader lifestyle products that align with her vibrant and eclectic aesthetic.

Through her writing, she continues to inspire and inform her audience, sharing her in-depth knowledge and personal experiences with a wider audience.