A good spotlight is an overlooked safety item
When going through a checklist of items to have with you in a boat, a spotlight is not always what pops into mind, but they can be very important and helpful. Anyone traveling on a waterway at night should definitely be equipped with a spotlight because a flashlight typically wont cut it. There are many dangers associated with boating at night including floating debris, submerged stumps and other underwater hazards that can easily be spotted with a spotlight, but usually not with a standard flashlight.
When looking for a spotlight for a boat it is advisable to go with one of the many marine grade spotlights that are available. These spotlights carry features like being water tight and floating so if they are dropped into a lake they are retrievable and should still work. Some marine spotlights also address the problem of fog on the water by including a special lense that helps with fog penetration. Depending on the set up of the boat, a decision will need to be made on whether a rechargeable or corded spotlight will serve best. If the boat has a cigarette adapter, a corded spotlight could be a good choice since it could be stored and left on the boat at all times versus a rechargeable one that would have to be charged prior to each trip.
No matter how you choose one, definitely include a spotlight into your list of "must have" items for any boat. You never know when you might need it.