Do You Want An Inflatable Boat For Float Fishing On Rivers
There are two main styles that anglers use to float-fish rivers: drift boats and inflatable rafts. Drift boats are usually made with lightweight aluminum or wooden frames. They are a classic choice, but many anglers opt for inflatable fishing boats insteadand for good reason.
Inflatable fishing boats are lighter than drift boats, can potentially navigate more severe rapids, and are often less expensive. You will need to purchase both the boat and the internal frame that allows you to fish from it. A package that includes the boat and frame is usually more cost-effective and always easier than putting together your set-up piecemeal. Look for inflatable rafts designed specifically for fishing. These will likely have more sturdy bottoms that allow you to stand and cast.
The Orvis x NRS Hookjaw Raft comes equipped with everything you need for a successful day on the river.Orvis
The Orvis x NRS Hookjaw Raft comes with a fishing-specific frame that features one low back padded seat ideal for rowing, and a high back swivel chair perfect for casting. The NRS/Star High 5 Self-Bailing inflatable raft is the backbone of the package, and the rubber is no jokeits self-bailing and features a 4-inch thick drop-stitch floor insert that inflates to a rigid 8-10 psi. Above all, its a durable, maneuverable, and easy-to-transport craft that handles whitewater conditions well for a fishing boat.
Best Inflatable Boats: Buying Guide
Before making the final step of acquiring a product, you need to go through all essential factors ensuring youre buying the best product based on your needs.
And thats precisely what were doing here. Im going to lead you through every step to make it easier for you. And then youll be able to peacefully make the right buying decision, knowing that youre currently investing in the best inflatable boat based on your needs.
Boats Used For Patrolling And Surveillance Rigid Inflatable Boat
RIBs are rigid-hulled inflatable boats. They are an amalgamation of the traditional boat and an inflatable boat. These boats provided excellent buoyancy due to the inflatable tubes, are easily manoeuvrable and seaworthy due to the rigid hull.
These boats cannot be folded or taken apart due to the rigid hull. However, Rigid Inflatable Boats are also virtually unsinkable.
To choose an inflatable boat, one must know more than just its uses. It is important to classify boats according to their designs, as it determines the speed and the strength of a boat. Here are a few steps on how to choose an inflatable boat based on its design.
You May Like: What Does It Cost To Join Freedom Boat Club
Newport Vessels Boat Products
Catalina
This raft is one of the largest dinghies you can ever find in the boating industry. Its twelve feet and six inches long and features 18-inch wide inflatable tubes. This boat can accommodate a weight capacity of 1,603 lbs, which is why it is best suited for anglers whod want to go for an adventure with their families.
Do I Need A Motor And A Keel
Adding a trolling motor or a gasoline outboard is a great upgrade to any serious inflatable boat.
Motors can be mounted on to almost all types of boats. However, inflatable boats without an inflatable keel are only advised to be powered by a motor with low HP or an electric trolling motor. This is because these types of boats are not built for speed or to cut smoothly through the water.
If you want to go fast, you have to purchase a dinghy with a keel and a hard transom.
These kinds of boats can go as fast as 15 to 20 mph, sometimes even faster depending on the boat and motor used.
However, do not forget to check the compatibility of your chosen boat with the motor. Most boats have a maximum speed rating and anything more than that could overwhelm the seams or the fabric of the particular boat.
Here is a great article on inflatable boats with motors by the way.
Read Also: Boat Registration Colorado
Top 5 Things To Know Before Buying Inflatable Boats
Before taking the final step of purchasing a product, you must consider all important factors to ensure that you are purchasing the right product for your needs. In other words, the only Inflatable dinghy that is right for you is the one that satisfies your requirements. Here are five things to keep in mind before purchasing an Inflatable boat.
The Boatworld Pro Range:
The Pro range of boats are solid, efficient and high performance, ready for any on the water activity. The Pro range consists of an inflatable PVC boat with a non-slip aluminium floor with an inflatable keel underneath, ideal for getting on the plane quicker and providing a sturdy feeling when out on the water.
The advantages of this boat are that due to the aluminium floor it has a stable platform that is solid and very durable, great for offshore as well as inshore boating. The aluminium base also provides a flat, stable deck which is perfect for standing on when fishing or anything else for that matter.
However, some points to consider when looking at the Pro, are the weight and portability aspects. Due to these boats having an aluminium deck they weigh more than some of our other ranges and can be difficult to pack away and transport especially if you are alone. As such it is necessary to consider how this would impact you in the context of how you are planning on using your boat.
You May Like: Is Boat Insurance Required In Alabama
Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker Sts10
If youre in search of the best inflatable dinghy specifically designed for the ultimate fishing experience, look no further than the Stealth Stalker STS10 by Sea Eagle. Its difficult to find inflatables that combine the basic dinghy performance with this boats incredibly useful fishing features.
Instead of the usual pontoons separated at the transom, this boat has a fully enclosed hull with a wide profile. It comes with a marine-grade plywood floor and side struts that increase its overall stability. So, whether youre fishing in saltwater or freshwater, the Stealth Stalker STS10 will perform excellently even in extreme conditions.
The boat has a frameless design that makes folding. Plus, it weighs only 45 lbs when deflated, making transportation easy for a single user.
It comes complete with several features, including fish rulers, repair kit, and a carry bag to safely stow away the boat when not in use. Fishing boats simply dont get any more convenient than the Stealth Stalker STS10!
Specs
- Weight: 45 lbs
- Number of Chambers: 3
- Engine Capacity: 4 HP gas or up to 74 lb. thrust electric
- Fabric: PVC
- Warranty: 3 years
Features
- Built-in Options: Raised oarlocks, motor mount, two 360o inflatable swivel seats, and four built-in rod holders.
- Accessories: Carry bag, stow bag, oar set, two 40-inch fish rulers, A41 foot pump, and repair kit.
Inflatable Boat Brand: Sevylor
Sevylor, a French-based boating company that came to light in 1948, is among the leading inflatable boat brands in the industry. And as such, theyve grown into a reputable inflatable boat brand manufacturing many inflatable items such as pool toys and some selected dinghies.
This inflatable boat brand takes its customers interests, and this is why they construct affordable raftswith all their dinghies going for $500 or less. However, going for less than 500 bucks doesnt mean Sevylor compromises on its boat construction quality.
The Sevylor manufactures quality inflatable boats, and this is evident from the fact that their oldest modelthe 1963 Tahiti kayak modelstill sells significantly today.
Read Also: Is Banana Boat Sunscreen Cruelty Free
Q: Are Inflatable Boats In Danger Of Sinking
This can be a little bit daunting for many. I mean, pool toys pop every day and then theyre junk. Isnt an inflatable boat just a big pool toy?
Actually, not so much. In fact, whitewater rafts are often made from similar materials as these inflatable boats. Those rafts are designed to withstand hard impacts on sharp rocks and they rarely have problems.
For those reasons your inflatable boat is probably a lot more durable than you might imagine.
That said, however, it is possible that your inflatable boat could be punctured. Most inflatable boats are made from multiple chambers of air which prevent the entire boat from losing air if a puncture does happen.
If your boat does have a problem like this, repairs are relatively easy. Most inflatable boats come with their own repair kits so you can get things working again in no-time!
Mustang Survival Mit 100 Inflatable Pfd
CO2 Tank Size: 24 Gram.Color: Black, Gray, Red, Camo.Deployment: Automatic.Weight: 3 pounds.
The Mustang Survival MIT is a one size fits all life jacket vest that provides comfort and safety when used on the water. It is easy to put on, easy to deploy, wear, and ensure that everyone on the boat is safe and up to the legal standards when wearing the life jacket.
Inflatable life jackets jacket comes in a number of different styles, and Mustang ensures that the low profile design is one that is easy to wear while you are on the water. The thick material on the vest is comfortable and provides the protection necessary to ensure that you have the best buoyancy in the water.
Easily adjust the straps and buckles on the jacket to meet the specifications of the person who is wearing the jacket. Anyone who is over the age of 16 is able to use the jacket. The person should also weigh over 80 pounds in order for the jacket to work correctly. Having this automatic life jacket provides the protection necessary regardless of whether it is manually inflated. Once it is needed and you hit the water, the jacket will inflate very quickly.
Don’t Miss: Is Banana Boat Cruelty Free
How Comfortable Are You Getting In And Out
If you think you may have trouble getting in and out of a kayak, you may be better served with a sit on top kayak. These are significantly easier to get in and out of. However, they are more prone to tipping because the center of gravity is higher. Be sure to practice getting back into the kayak to be sure you are able to do it quickly.
The Boatworld Air V Range:
The Boatworld Air V is a great multi-use boat. Featuring a deep high-pressure V hull floor that is integral to the boat, this range is agile and high performance without compromising on stow ability. The key to this boat is the V hull which is more pronounced than other ranges with inflatable keels. This gives the Air V great directional stability in the water, paired with the transom tabs on the back, this boat has great performance and planes with ease. On top of this due to the way, the floor is fitted this boat has a very deep hull which when combined with the wide tubes, gives the boat a very safe feel.
The Air V range is often used as a tender, fishing vessel, or just for cruising in open/sheltered water however, one thing to consider when deciding which boat is for you is that this does not have a flat deck so this can make it difficult to stand in if you were wanting to go fishing.
Read Also: Does Aaa Cover Boat Towing
Best Air Floor Inflatable Boat Intex Seahawk Inflatable Boat Series
The Intex SeaHawk Inflatable Boat Series is another fantastic offering from Intex. Its designed for you to take a small group of family or friends for a fun day in the water. The Seahawk 4 is made to hold four adults its nearly 12 feet long and has a weight capacity of 1,050 pounds.
And yes, the floor is inflatable. This provides an extra level of comfort and buoyancy. The two seats are also inflatable, allowing you to paddle in complete comfort and relaxation.
The floor has an I-beam design, which gives it a bit of extra stability, but its not as stable as the average rigid inflatable boat. However, thats normal for air floor inflatables and isnt a flaw with this boat in particular.
The Seahawk comes with built-in fishing rod holders and a gear chamber, so its a perfect option if you enjoy fishing.
The boat has three inflatable vinyl chambers. The Boston valves make for quick and easy work when inflating and deflating.
The boat comes with a set of aluminum oars however, because of its size, its rather difficult for one person to row alone. There are two oarlocks on each side, so if you have an extra set of oars and a friend to help you paddle, that would be best.
Or, if you want to skip the paddling altogether, the boat also has a motor mount fitting so you can install a trolling motor. Make sure the horsepower doesnt exceed 1.5, as this boat is too lightweight for a motor any larger than that.
Pros:
- Vinyl construction isnt as durable as PVC
Intex Challenger 2 Inflatable Boat
The Intex Challenger is a low-cost boat that will get you out on the water for some relaxation and fun. The boat is made of high-quality materials, ensuring that it can last much longer than expected. It has an inner auxiliary chamber that prevents it from sinking in the event of a puncture.
It includes a grab line for easy entry and exit, as well as additional safety and utility. The wringer could be put through this inexpensive Inflatable kit. This two-person boat has a lot more personality than most people realize. It has the ability to easily carry up to 376 pounds. Youll be safe and secure thanks to the puncture-resistant PVC material. For safety, it comes with 2 French oars and a heavy-duty grab line. This is a great lounging dinghy or a basic fishing Inflatable.
Specifications
Intex Challenger 2 Inflatable Boat Specifications
Reviews
5 stars out of 5 a great price for a fun cruise! This boat is even more durable. The boat is made of puncture-resistant, long-lasting PVC that is also very comfortable. For added support, the floor has an Inflatable l-beam. 2 Boston valves are used on the boat to allow for rapid inflation and deflation. In case of an emergency, there is a repair kit on board.
Price
$ 150/ Piece
Don’t Miss: How To Clean Mildew Off Boat Seats
How Was The Comparison Made
User experiences offer us different opinions. If buyers or users, at first glance, misjudge the product, it means they did not like anything, since the size, cut or even the color was not suitable for them. However, these so-called 1-star evaluations often contain only the frustration that the user has had.Maybe you just made a bad purchase and it just wasnt right for your ideas. To avoid this, we always recommend that you read the evaluations carefully. Otherwise, approach a store just around the corner that also offers this article. There you can take a closer look and form an opinion. You will have to follow our advice.Check out the best versions in the comparison. There are also many 4 or 5 star ratings here for the excellent product quality. These buyer comments are a sign that people are satisfied. These customer comments also say something about product quality.
Sea Eagle Fsk16 Fishskiff16 Inflatable Boat
- Setup time a little inflated.
- Not suitable for whitewater.
Takeaway
As an alternative to a more traditional raft, dinghy, or kayak, this is a clever inflatable that offers excellent stability thanks to its pontoons.
But the folding frame design is just brilliant, ensuring its a highly portable craft you can get to the waters edge with ease.
Don’t Miss: How To Clean Mildew Off Boat Seats
Best Inflatable Boats In 2021
-
/
In order to help you choose a good boat that will serve you well over the years, we have scoured the internet to find some of the best inflatable boat options on the market in 2021. With an inflatable boat, you do not have to worry about transporting your boat to the water on a trailer. Inflatable boats pack up so small that they can fit in the trunk of your car, while still being big enough to transport up to 6 people.
Choosing the best inflatable fishing boat can be hard if you are not aware of all the details that should be considered, so thats why our team has prepared you 10 inflatable boat reviews, together with a complete buying guide including the most frequently asked questions. Because the Inflatable boats are great for recreational trips on a lake, fishing excursions, and even have the capacity to add a motor should you want to really get up to speed on the water, you will need an option that will serve great to those demands.
Inflatable Sport Boats »
Saturn Sd330 11ft Inflatable Boat
Saturn is a widely-respected manufacturer of inflatable boats, and the brands SD330 model is one of their best-sellers. Its a premium model that can accommodate up to 5 passengers, is compatible with short shaft motors up to 15 horsepower, and can be used as a yacht tender, pleasure boat, and emergency life saving raft all in one package.
The SD330 is constructed from an advanced Korean-made 1100 Denier PVC fabric with reinforced polyester layers for increased tear, puncture, and abrasion resistance. Its built around three separate air chambers, with a special drop stitch floor that can handle 9 psi of pressure, making for sturdy rigid floor. This floor keeps the boat lightweight and boot performance, and makes it easier to assemble and deflate too.
The V-keel is equipped rub strake protection, and double-layered fabric, to help protect against the effects of sharp rocks, abrasive sand, and the effects of saltwater. Theres a one-way drain valve too, to help keep excess water from accumulating on board.
Other cool features include advanced safety valves that protect your boat from over-inflation, anchoring stainless steel D-rings, towing rings, soft carry handles, a splash guard, a perimeter grab rope, and an epoxy coated marine-grade wood transom.
This is a great choice for beginners and pros alikeand while it has a steep price tag, it really is worth the money. If you take your boating seriously, this is an excellent option.
Also Check: How To Get Mold Stains Out Of Boat Seats
