Deep Cycle Marine Battery Essential?

[mini696]

Is it essential to have a "marine" style battery for your deep cycle? It is used for my 54lb electric motor, and not used for cranking.

[peterbo3]

Golf cart batteries are popular in the US on the freshwater lakes but if you running in any sort of chop the cases may split or the plates warp. Definitely use marine grade if you are transiting rough water but any deep cycle should be OK for smooth water use.