Fishing Boats - Fun and Practical

You could stand on a pier or wade into a river to fish. Many fishermen do and enjoy their angling to the max. But many times it's not just handy to have a fishing boat, it's a necessity.

Freshwater fishing boats run the gamut from personal watercraft to a small jonboat or up to a real cruiser. Most will be on the smaller end of the scale, though. For lakes and freshwater rivers a 12-24 foot aluminum or fiberglass model is just fine. Larger, more powerful models are best reserved for larger lakes or saltwater fishing. A bowrider or walleye boat is perfect for you and your friends or family.

Float tubes are very popular, especially with fly fisherman on lakes and ponds. They are lightweight and easy to carry and pack. Just put on your waders and some flippers and you're ready to go. These personal watercraft are great for coves and along the shoreline. There's something special about fishing from float tubes. The silent operation and closeness to the water surface is an experience in itself, but when you get a violent strike at near eye level you could easily get hooked on this way of fishing.

If you're looking for something a little bigger yet you still would like the stealth of a float tube you might consider a personal pontoon boat. You can still get into those tight spots a larger boat can't and with the oars your able cover more distance. You can also put up the oars and kick with your fins so you can manuever and cast at the same time just like in a float tube. Kind of the best of both worlds.

Some folks like trolling on a freshwater lake. This is a very productive method for catching a lot of fish. For this you can't beat an aluminum fishing boat with an electric trolling motor, gas outboard motor or both. Most of these boats have hard bench seats but it's very easy to add padded swivel seats so you can enjoy the scenery and your fishing in comfort. These boats aren't just for trolling though. If you want to get to that special spot accross the lake you can get there in a hurry with an outboard motor.

Bass boats are another favorite. They ride low in the water and can make good time whenever that's needed. Many are equipped with platforms that make casting off the bow or stern ultra-easy. Often seen in tournaments, they make equally good vessels for sport fishing.

If you're headed out to sea a large saltwater boat is a must. These beauties deserve all the praise they regularly receive. A 30 to 40 footer would be a good coastal boat, but the size isn't the only great feature. With platforms and rigging specially designed for fishing they provide the ultimate in convenience and practicality.

Larger models (40-60-feet and up) are more expensive, of course, but you definitely get what you pay for here. With long bows and short sterns, they provide the perfect shape for cruising fast. Then, once you've reached your destination, you'll find them outfitted for any kind of species you're after. Marlin, sailfish and more can't do a thing to hurt these rock-solid fishing platforms.

These convertibles are spacious, too. Fifteen foot beams ensure that. The helm can easily seat four comfortably and the walk leading to the fighting chair isn't likely to cause anyone to fall overboard. Below deck they're outfitted with kitchens that rival a good RV.

They also pack plenty of power. Even smaller 30-foot models sport twin 250 Mercury motors for a total of 500HP. The 60-foot models can carry up to twin 1825 Caterpillars for a whopping 3650 HP that can cruise at more than 30 knots without breaking a sweat. Some top out at over 40 knots, which on the water will easily take you where you want to go in a hurry.

Closer to shore in saltwater environments you might get away with something smaller. But even when reduced in size, a good saltwater fishing boat will have all the latest gear to make the experience great. Even the smaller boats will often sport weather gear, sonar and other handy devices to avoid trouble and get you right to the fish.

Whatever style of angling you prefer there's a fishing boat to suit your taste and budget. Just don't have so much fun on one that you forget to do some fishing!

Togiak Float Tube

Togiak Float Tube is portable, back-packable and perfect for anglers on the go! If you like to hike in to remote lakes, the Togiak Float Tube is the way to go! This lightweight design straps to your back for easy portage to give you access to waters uninhabited by motor boats and other motorized (and often annoying) watercraft. Perfect for fishermen who like to search out secret honey holes that don't have public boat access.
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Buck's Bags Alpine Pontoon Boat

The Shallow-drift double pontoon system creates great tracking and minimal wind resistance. The new "Versa-Frame" incorporates both anchor system and motor mount, allowing them to be used effectively at the same time with extra room for battery storage. Also includes a front stripping apron, deluxe tackle pockets, 6' break-down oars and adjustable footrests. Rotary-welded pontoon seams, vinyl bladders, high-output valves and powder-coated steel frame.
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Pelican Predator 103 Bass Boat

The Pelican Predator 103 is a modified V-hull fishing boat constructed of Ram-X resin for the ultimate in impact resistance and memory capacity (the ability to regain original shape after impact). Conveniently pre-wired for electric motors and accessories. Featuring two folding and swiveling seats, four vertical rod holders, a live well, battery compartment, bow electric motor mount, for and aft electrical sockets, drink holders, lure compartments, and four cleats, the Predator gives the fisherman all he needs. Khaki exterior with gray-white interior.
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