Boaters, like many other shoppers, look forward to Black Friday each year so they can take advantage of the best deals in boating, fishing, and watersports equipment. Black Friday has always been known as the unofficial kick-off to the holiday shopping season, as retailers compete to release major discounts on some of their most popular items.
For marine retailers, Black Friday is the perfect opportunity to provide boaters with specialty pricing on boating accessories from fishing rods and reels, to towable tubes, life jackets and other safety gear, electronics and so much more.
Whether shopping for yourself or looking for gifts for the boater in your life, Black Friday deals can be the perfect opportunity to save money.
Editor’s Note: Prices and deals are current as of last date of publish. Retailers listed from A-Z. Last updated on Nov. 18, 2024.
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7 Black Friday Deals to Shop for Boating Gifts
1. Amazon
Amazon’s Black Friday sales include discounts on boating essentials like marine electronics, life jackets, and water sports gear. Popular deals this year include life jackets and fish finders. Don’t forget to check out their Lightning Deals for limited-time offers.
2. Bass Pro Shops & Cabela's
Bass Pro Shops
Shoppers don’t need to wait for Black Friday to take advantage of deals from Bass Pro Shops!
Beginning now through Nov. 26, both stores are running their “Holiday Kickoff Sale,” with discounts of up to 50% off on select fishing reels, handheld radios and GPS units, marine oils, coolers, and more.
If you plan ahead, you can also take advantage of a free photo with Santa in "Santa's Wonderland," running in-store only from Nov. 16 through Christmas Eve on Dec. 24.
Bass Pro Shops will be open on Thanksgiving Day from 9 am - 6 pm. They will also be open on Black Friday from 5 am - 9 pm. Hours may vary by location and will be posted online as the date gets closer.
Cabela’s
Cabela’s, a sister store to Bass Pro Shops, is also offering similar Black Friday discounts and offerings like free photos with Santa. Deals include markdowns on boating apparel, GPS devices, and angling accessories.
If you can’t make it in-store, they are also offering a special 10% savings off gift card purchase price available only from November 1st - December 8th.
3. Dick’s Sporting Goods
Dick’s Sporting Goods is offering Black Friday flash deals on outdoor equipment, fishing gear, and water sports items. Look for discounts on fish finders, kayaks, and camping accessories. Customers can also take advantage of free shipping on qualifying orders.
Their Holiday Gift Guide includes gift ideas by categories like: Top Gifts, Gifts for Him, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Kids, Stocking Stuffers, Gifts by Price, and more.
Boaters and anglers can look forward to discounts on fish finders and other electronics, waders, rods and reels, bait and lures, and kayaks.
Most Dick’s Sporting Goods locations will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. Then open from 6 a.m. -10 p.m. on Black Friday, November 29.
In addition, most DICK'S locations will be open from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24 for last-minute shoppers. Stores will close on Christmas Day, reopening on Thursday, December 26 at 9 a.m.
4. Overton’s
Overton’s Black Friday sale includes up to 60% off on towable tubes, wakeboards, and marine safety equipment. Their sale also features deep discounts on boat covers, anchors, and watersports gear.
5. Target
Target’s Black Friday deals span across multiple categories, including electronics, outdoor gear, and home essentials. This year’s highlights for boaters include discounts on coolers, camping chairs, and portable power stations perfect for extended boating trips.
Most Target stores will open early at 6 a.m. local time on Black Friday, featuring exclusive items. Shoppers can also take advantage of Target’s same-day delivery services for added convenience.
For the holiday season, Target has extended its shopping hours, operating from 7 a.m. to midnight from November 30 through December 23. Consistent with recent years, Target stores will remain closed on Thanksgiving Day, continuing a tradition now in its fifth year.
6. Walmart
Walmart’s Black Friday deals feature significant discounts on a variety of outdoor products. Boaters can find savings on fish finders, waterproof storage bags, and utility tools. Their online and in-store deals often sell out fast, so act quickly! Holiday hours for in-store shopping may vary by location:
Most locations will be closed on Thanksgiving day, then open from 5 am to 11 pm on Black Friday.
Then open on Christmas Eve from 6 am - 6 pm and closes on Christmas Day.
7. West Marine
West Marine’s Black Friday event is a favorite among boaters, offering up to 50% off on marine electronics, safety gear, and navigation tools. Deals include the HX40 Handheld VHF Radio and waterproof binoculars. Their online store also features exclusive Buy More Save More discounts.
West Marine stores close on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Bonus Shopping Tip: Check with Your Local Boat Dealer & Boat Shows
In addition to these retailers, don't forget to check in with your local boat dealer, who may offer gifts that can be personalized or unique to your local area.
Likewise, winter boat shows in your area may be launching special ticket offerings and discounts for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Check out your favorite boat show's website and social media accounts throughout the holiday season for the latest ticket promotions.
Read Next: Boat Shows for Beginners Guide
Final Tips for Black Friday Shopping
- Shop Early: Many deals go live before Black Friday, so check retailer websites regularly for one-day and early sales.
- Compare Prices: Use price-comparison tools to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
- Check Return Policies: Confirm the return policies for items purchased during Black Friday, as they may differ from regular purchases.
This year’s Black Friday sales are packed with great opportunities for boaters to save on essential gear. Start planning now to make the most of these deals!
Don’t Feel Like Shopping? Get Outdoors!
Join REI’s #OptOutside Campaign REI (Recreational Equipment Inc.) closes its doors on Black Friday and encourages both their employees and customers to #OptOutside. #OptOutside first launched in 2015 and encourages people to get outside and get active by making the most of the great outdoors.
Learn more about the #OptOutside Campaign and how to participate by visiting REI, and if you’re ready to #OptOutside, don’t forget to utilize our Go Boating Today tool to help you get out on the water today.
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