Understanding The Different Types Of Fishing Boats
Fishing boats arent one-size-fits-all. There are conditions in which you would need to choose one type of fishing boat over another. When you hear the term fishing boat, you may think of a bass boat. On the other hand, when you hear fishing boat, a center console boat may come to mind. This is why it is so important to know the different types of fishing boats so that you can decide which one is the best fishing boat for you.
Sun Dolphin Pro 102 Mini
When Angler in Chief Lenny Rudow wanted a new pond-hopper, the Sun Dolphin Pro 102 was his choice. Having spend many a day at the lake on this boat, we can happily report that its a ball for two anglers fishing in relatively protected waters. With a 55-pound thrust 12-volt electric outboard it goes jogging speeds, theres a livewell molded in, it has twin swivel seats, and the complete package including a trailer and a pair of deep-cycle batteries barely broke the $3,000 mark . News Flash: if you have a pickup you dont really need the trailer because itll fit in the bed of the truck .
Visit Sun Dolphin Boats, to learn more.
Another aluminum rig that makes the Top 10: the Tracker Guide V-16 Laker DLX T.
Who Will You Be Fishing With
This is another question you should ask yourself, as this will help you decide which is the best fishing boat for you.
If you will be fishing with one or two buddies and fishing is the only reason you will be on the water, you can get by with a standard bass boat or a fish and ski boat. You wont need a whole lot of room, and the boat will have all of the features you need to fish.
If you will be fishing with your family and your family will enjoy cruising on the water, you would be best to choose a pontoon fishing boat. The fishing models of pontoon boats give you the best of both worlds. There is plenty of storage and fishing features that come with the boat, and it also gives your friends and family a place to sit and relax while on the water.
You can also choose a fish and ski option if you will be doing some fishing in between the times that someone will be pulled for tubing, wakeboarding, or skiing.
If you will be fishing with more than four people, you will need a boat to accommodate this. A bass boat would not be the best because it will only seat four people safely. You should choose a fish and ski model or a pontoon model for this case.
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Mclay 701 Gen2 Cruiser
We tested two of New Zealand’s McLay plate alloy boats during 2019 and both impressed with their practical layouts, sturdy construction and inherent seaworthiness.
The smaller of the two boats, the McLay 651 CrossXover, was also the safer of the two, equipped with foam flotation to Australia’s Level Standard. However, for serious fishing and offshore capability, we preferred the size, interior layout, and feature set of the larger McLay 701 Gen2 Cruiser.
The 701 Gen2 cruiser is the smallest of three models in the McLay Gen2 hardtop cabin cruiser series and the most manageable for trailerboating. It’s a big, tough 7.1-metre platey, but it can be towed easily enough behind 3.0-tonne rated towing vehicles.
Key features of the McLay 701 Gen2 include a hardtop cabin configuration with forward vee berth, enclosed wheelhouse and toughed glass windscreen and side windows, along with a large tread-plate alloy rear cockpit with ample freeboard, full-length side pockets, elevated battery shelving, bait board, live well, transom door and more.
The McLay 701 Gen2 Cruiser is a fine looking boat, and a solid performer in offshore waters. The 18-degree deadrise hull is stable, comfortable, and runs to a top speed of 32 knots when paired with a Suzuki V6 250hp outboard.
Invincible Boats 42 Open Fisherman
The Invincible Boats 42 Open Fisherman was designed with pro anglers in mind. This sport fishing boat offers an unmatched passage-making capability and remarkable stability that you dont get with any other long-range boat. It has 360-degree walkaround fishability and is fully customizable.
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Even When Money’s No Object These Are The Boats Smart Anglers Buy
Finally pick that winning lottery ticket? Inherit a fortune from some distant relative you never even knew? Heres how to spend your riches, with the 10 of the best fishing boats at any price.
Because fishing boats come in such a huge range of styles and types, we offer our picks for the top buy in 10 different categories. Think we blew it? Then let us know what you think the best fishing boats are. Besides, if that lottery jackpot was big enough, you might even be able to order one of each!
A Short History Of The Lund Boats
In 1948 G. Howard Lund built himself an aluminum duck boat that he could transport on the top of his car. Eventually someone from a boat company noticed it and ordered 50 models just like it.
Lunds boat was noticed for its craftsmanship, a factor in it becoming known shortly thereafter as the worlds finest fishing boats and being produced by the Lund Boat Company.
Most fishing tournaments in the northern states of the US and in Canada will have anglers driving boats with the Lund name along the side. The reason for this is the craftsmanship that Howard Lund started out with more than 70 years ago.
While Lund boats include around 30 different models, they are all variationsincreased comfort or water sportson the same successful fishing boat design. Theres going to be a boat that fits everyones needsjust as long as fishing is also one of them.
The especially amazing integrated power strake and reverse chime design is particularly lauded for its performance and stability factor, something that is just great for bolting out of the gate toward the right fishing hole and standing on the casting decks.
While design is premium, there are some questions about materials used in Lund boats. Having a wooden deck and wooden transom on aluminum boats can result in a nightmare scenario in the rare occasions where water leaks through the floor.
But alongside innovation awards for Lund boats, most owners are proud of them.
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Fishing Boat Buyers Guide
2020 was a year that wed all like to forget. One of the bright spots during the pandemic was that the world suddenly wanted to go boating and all at the same time. New boats, used boats, old boats, new boats if it floated, someone wanted to buy it and get out on the water to escape from reality. The bottom line is that the boating industry is one of the few that has thrived during the past years economic gyrations and lockdowns and the price of fuel is still relative inexpensive, making your trips on the briny relatively affordable. So get onboard and lets take a closer look at some of the new boats for the 2021 season.
Boston Whaler
Grady-White
Although this North Carolina builder has nothing new for 2021 as of this writing, Ive heard scuttlebutt that theyve been working on a top secret project that is sworn to secrecy. Until this newbie is introduced, one of the latest second-gen Gradys to hit the marinas is their new-and-improved Canyon 336. I have spent over 100 hours of wheel time during my away charters with the first-generation 336s and you will be hard pressed to find a more predictable, smooth, dry and comfortable ride in any other boat in its class. Even in three to four footers, it seems like its running on rails.
Contender
Steiger Craft
Regulator Marine
Robalo
Everglades
Sailfish
Best Sportfishing Cruiser Bertram 61 Convertible
Bertram 61 Convertible
Big-water, deep sea fishing doesnt get better than aboard Bertrams magnificent 61 Convertible. With its enormous, teak-lined cockpit, expansive flybridge with commanding 360-degree views, huge transom bait well, full gourmet kitchen, snug and roomy salon with a big-screen TV on a lift and 360-degree windows, a full-beam master stateroom for overnight stays and unrivalled luxury, this is one fishing boat that soars above the rest. The marlin will never know what hit them.
- Length: 61 1
- Maximum power: Twin 1,925 hp Cat C32
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Gillgetter 7515 Fishing Pontoon Boat
The Gillgetter 7515 may be small and simple, but you can get a tiller steer model with a trailer and stay within budget something we cant say for any other fishing pontoon boats that can take a crew of seven people aboard, carry up to 30 horses on the transom, and come with two swivel seats and a pair of rodholders. If you want a pontoon boat that can be used for fishing and you need to keep the entire package under the $10,000 mark, the Gillgetter is your best option. Note for you El-Cheap-O people: Gillgetter has an even smaller model, the 135 613 Tiller, which you can splash in the lake for several thousand dollars less.
For more information, check out Angler Qwest.
Hey people, a kayak is still a boat. And in the case of the Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14, it’s a fish-killing machine.
What Do You Intend To Use The Boat For
If youre crazy about fishing, a CC is precisely what you need. Modern vessels are built to be incredibly roomy and have plenty of space for all your fishing gear and equipment. Unlike other boats, center consoles give you full 360-degree access to the water around the vessel, which is precisely what you need for reeling in those difficult catches.
You also need to think about the number of people you plan to bring along with you on the boat. A bigger boat is ideal if you want to carry more passengers onboard. This makes it perfect if you want to bring friends and family members along on your fishing excursions.
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Native Slayer Propel 13 Fishing Kayak
Kayak anglers know the name Slayer, and the Propel 13 is one of their top pedal-drive offerings. Native says that the Propel 13 can go 4.2 mph all day, and can push to 5.2 mph when the thunderstorm rolls in. We say that the pedal drive is an amazingly sweet perk, we found trolling from this rig an absolute pleasure, and the speeds they quote seem about right to us. Price for the Propel 13 is about $2,400, but you should plan to spend another $500 to $1,000 on rigging youll almost certainly want to add items like mounting tracks, rodholders, and a fishfinder. News flash: the Native Slayer Propel 13 ranked at the top of Outdoor Lifes 2017 Best Fishing Kayaks round-up and is the kayak of choice of FishTalk Art Director Zach Ditmars.
Check it out at Native Watercraft.
The only inflatable boat in our round-up: the Sea Eagle inflatable FishSkiff 16.
What Do You Intend To Use It For
The first question you need to ask yourself is Why do you want to buy a walkabout boat? The answer to this question will advise the size of the boat you should get. Heres why this is important.
Not all walkabout boats are created equal. Some are much much bigger than others, which is perfect if you plan to entertain a lot. You want your guests to feel comfortable onboard and not hurdled together as though theyre at a live baseball event.
It needs to have ample seating and even allow people to stretch out if they need to. If, on the other hand, its just for you, your spouse, and 2.5 kids, then a smaller boat would suffice.
Size also plays a major role in stowage. You may need to dock a larger boat at a marina. But keep in mind that this option has its own set of associated costs.
On the other hand, if you intend to tow it using your car, ensure that your vehicle is fully capable of doing this, and the boat in question is small enough to fit in a standard garage.
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Best Fiberglass Bass Boat Triton 21 Xrt
Triton 21 XRT
Officially introduced at the 2021 BassMaster Classic, Tritons all-new 21 XRT is one of the best fishing boats anywhere with its high-performing hull design and features a retooled top cap, which adds seven inches of width for greater interior space. A redesigned console permits flush-mounting dual 12-inch fishfinders, while newly bolstered seating makes short work of long days on the water. Theres also a refreshed bow station, and generous storage to accommodate an anglers every need.
- Length: 21 0
Best Sport Fishing Boats Top 30 Options For 2022
by Chris Riley Updated on June 13, 2022. In Boats
People in the non-fishing world often ask What exactly makes fishing a sport? Its a valid question since its not exactly the first thing that comes to mind when you think of sports.
To clarify, a sport is anything that requires some level of physical exertion, skill and can be done competitively. Any activity that meets these three criteria can be classified as a sport.
Heres a fun fact for you. More than 49 million Americans fish every year, which represents approximately 15 percent of the population. Now, thats a lot if you think about it.
If youre thinking about taking up this thrilling hobby, youll need a proper boat to do it in. You cant very well fish competitively in any old raggedy watercraft and expect sterling results. So, weve reviewed the 30 best sport fishing boats in the angling world to help you pick a high-quality craft.
If youre looking for a sport fishing boat that offers the perfect combination of fishability and luxury, it doesnt get any better than the HCB Estrella. This 65 ft. long beauty is powered by five Yamaha outboard engines, has a cabin that sleeps up to five people, and comes with loads of fishing-friendly features that are guaranteed to give you an edge over the competition.
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A History Of Proven Innovation
For over half a century, Lowe has been perfecting the great American fishing boat right in the middle of the country in Lebanon Missouri. Here, the people who use the boats build the boats, taking pride in every step of the process from initial engineering to the boat ramp. For generations, the Lowe name has meant quality time on the water with familytime made possible by the highest quality construction. From thoughtful design to premium raw materials to the finest aluminum welders in the world, Lowe brings the peace of mind you expect, the value you need, and the longevity that is shown through thousands of Lowe boats that are passed down to the next generation.
Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 18 Dlx
If youll be fishing in a lake, reservoir, or relatively protected waterway, and you like the idea of a fishing pontoon boat, the Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 18 DLX will prove ideal. Fishing features include a molded livewell, rod holders, and fore and aft fishing decks with pedestal chairs.
And although this isnt the fanciest pontoon boat around it a has a different sort of ace up its sleeve: The Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 18 DLX costs a whole lot less than most fishing pontoons of its size and delivers a tremendous bang for the buck. As a result its proved quite popular over the years and youll see it pop up when looking for pontoon boat rentals.
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Which Type Of Boat Is Best For You Top 10 Choices For Boaters
Cruiser, bowrider, freshwater fishing, runabout, sailboat, saltwater fishing, speed boat, trawler, pontoon, or watersports boats which is right for you? Well help you make the best choice.
Whether youre a beginner boater whos still trying to figure out basic boat terminology or an old salt who stays in tune with the latest boat design trends, you probably know that choosing the ideal boat for you and your family is no simple endeavor. Different kinds of boats can be broken down into dozens of classes, but we have simplified most popular choice into our top 10 classes of boat.Read on to learn all about each of these boat types.
Sportsman Masters 207 Bay Boat
We have tested several South Carolina-built Sportsman models over the past few years and none have impressed so well as the new Sportsman Masters 207 Bay Boat. This fibreglass composite craft is a low-sided open centre console boat with lots of fishing deck space coupled to a seaworthy, stable hull.
The Masters 207 is the smallest in the Sportsman Masters series, but it is ideal for anglers who like to fish bays and harbours such as Moreton in Brisbane and Port Phillip Bay in Melbourne. The boats are low-sided, but they are very stable and surprisingly comfortable. The hulls have a very fine entry that does a great job of dissecting heavy bay chop, offering up a smooth, quiet ride.
The Master 207 is also wonderfully finished and appointed. There’s lots of standard kit and the layout is ideal for anglers. Key features include a forward casting deck with multiple storage lockers and gas-assist struts, a dual-width helm console with leaning post, three separate live wells, dual batteries, two enclosed rod-lockers, folding rear bench seat, pull-up cleats, provision for an electric trolling motor and more.
Rigged with a Yamaha 150hp four-stroke outboard engine, the Sportsman Masters 207 Bay Boat is quick and responsive, accelerating to a top speed of 43 knots.
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