DIY pontoon boat storage helps keep your belongings safe and organized while on the water since built-in storage in a pontoon is limited. In this boating resource guide, we’ll teach you some hacks so you can easily maximize the storage space on your pontoon boat.
One of the most important things to consider when adding storage to a pontoon boat is weight distribution. This is especially important if you plan on DIYing your pontoon boat storage.


You’ll want to make sure that the weight is evenly distributed so that the pontoon doesn’t become unbalanced and unstable.
If you’re looking for DIY pontoon boat storage ideas then you’re in luck. Be sure to keep reading to learn some organization tips and tricks.
How Do You Store Supplies On A Boat?
Some basic supplies you will need for a boat include water, food, a first-aid kit, flares, a fire extinguisher, and a VHF radio.
To store these items correctly on your boat, it is important to have a well-organized storage area.
Try to use bins or baskets that can be easily accessed and secured in place. It is also important to keep like items together. For example, store all of your food in one place and all of your water in another place.

This will help you stay organized and avoid confusion while sailing.
Check out the most practical DIY storage ideas below.
DIY Pontoon Boat Storage
Because built-in storage in a pontoon boat is limited, many DIYers choose to build their own storage solutions.
There are many different ways to build DIY pontoon boat storage, and the best method for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
One popular way is to install shelves or cabinets. This is a great option if you need a place to store things like life jackets, fishing gear, or other small items.
If you want to keep your equipment from rolling around and making a mess, cargo nets are the way to go. You can easily attach cargo nets within a hatch and secure your stuff from falling around.
You can strap down anything from life jackets to fishing gear, so it’s ready when you need it.
It’s also ideal for storing inflatables or other large items that take up a lot of space on the deck.
You can DIY your own cargo net by crisscrossing bungee cords on your pontoon rails.
You can use waterproof storage bags like the one below or use any waterproof duffel bags that has a large opening.
Simply sling it over the railing on each side of the boat (or as much as you need) and store some essentials.
Insider tip: Put the things that are used most often in the outside pockets for easier access.
Use a handy door organizer or hanging pockets on the back of your cabin door to make the best use of the space. The hooks at the top allow it to dangle over any door without additional hardware.
This kind of storage is flexible as you can store anything in it. There’s a shoe organizer with crystal pockets that is ideal for storing condiments to avoid them from falling.
You can choose from different styles so it will fit your pontoon’s motif while providing important boat interior storage.
This hanging basket is perfect for those smaller items you want to keep within reach, such as sunglasses, sunscreen, or bug spray. You can also store fruits and vegetables, and other food that are easily squashed, like bread.
Install hanging baskets on your pontoon boat by screwing hooks under the overhead cabinets, and then hanging the net basket.
For an easy DIY solution, cut some pool noodles in half and zip-tie them to your pontoon rails. Then, just hang your items from the noodles!
Hanging storage such as this one can utilize the overhead storage of your pontoon boat. What I like about it is that it’s customizable depending on what kind of things you want to put up on it.
You can pretty much store anything in a wire mesh wall grid. You may need some other things like S hooks for your pots and pans as well as kitchen utensils.
For those who are plant dads and moms, this wall grid can also be used to display your beloved plants. There are planters where you can mount your plant babies if you want to bring them on board.
Whether you need something for decorative or storage purposes, a wire mesh wall grid is the best choice!
Keep your fishing rods from getting tangled with this useful PVC fishing rod holder. Not only is it affordable, but this DIY pontoon boat storage is also sturdy and customizable to the number of holders you want.
This video below shows you a step-by-step procedure to make a PVC fishing rod holder.
It’s great storage for your fishing rods to keep your deck from becoming an eyesore and so you won’t have to spend a lot of time untangling your rods the next time you go fishing.
Trust me, nobody wants flying knives on board. You can stick a magnetic strip knife holder with a 3M double-sided tape on the inside of the cupboard door or in the drawers in your galley to keep them from clattering when the waves are too strong.
Make sure to steer the magnet away from the compass if you still want to find your way home!
Pontoon Boat Accessories
Pontoon boats are a great way to have some outdoor family fun on the lake or a party with friends out on the open sea. Check out these practical must-have pontoon boat accessories to add to your boat for smooth sailing.
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Recommended Boating Resources
- Recommended Pontoon Boat Accessories
- Best Boat Snacks– These are easy to make and yummy, too.
- Pontoon Boat Hacks– Simplify your days on the water with these boating hacks.
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
While food and drinks are the most important part of a boat party, there’s another thing that we can’t live without nowadays– photos! Check out these basic photography techniques from PhotoJeepers and impress your guests with your photography skills!
After every party and fishing trip, where does the pontoon boat go? If you’re new to boating, you should check out this article on how to store a pontoon boat.