Which Boats Are Best For Fishing And Hanging Out? Keep in mind that every boat has specific design elements that make it suitable for particular purposes. For example, speed boats may be suitable for water sports, thanks to their speed on the water, but these aren’t designed for offshore fishing and vice-versa.
A Must-Read: How Much Are Fishing Boats?
You must then choose the right type of boat, whether you’re just hanging out on the water with family and friends or fishing for the catch of a lifetime. You will not only get the most out of the boat, but you will also achieve your goal of having it in the first place.
Best Recreational Boats
The water conditions in a lake are usually calm with little to no waves except on windy days and bad weather. The recreational boats suitable for it are designed to provide passengers with more space to move around and for fairly calm water conditions.
Pontoon Boat
A pontoon boat has a flattish hull with floats underneath it to remain buoyant on the water. Also known as a tube boat, it contains reserve buoyancy necessary for the addition of spacious decks filled with accommodations like stand-up bars, lounge areas, and sun pads for relaxation purposes. It’s also a suitable boat for fishing and sight-seeing.
With its length ranging from 15 to 30 feet, it’s a relatively shallow boat with two or more pontoons and aluminum tubes. It’s a safe boat, too, thanks to its durable construction. But it isn’t big on speed, and it has issues with anchoring out, eating on a stable surface, and bringing the kids along due to its shallow surface.
But some accessories make it easier to eat on a pontoon boat. First, the Wise 3059-1882 Pontoon Double Drink Holder features two stainless steel cups that can be secured to its drink holder and then tucked into a safe place. The no-spill design can withstand even reasonably large waves.
Second, the Arnalls Universal Pontoon Boat Table can be mounted on the Arnalls grill for extra counter space and a table. Made of sturdy birch wood, it can withstand exposure to the natural elements while still being lightweight and portable. Also, you can store it easily when not in use.
Deck Boat
A deck boat is a faster version of a pontoon boat, but both have several similarities. It also has a wide deck that provides plenty of room for hanging out, even a little fishing on the side, as well as for more storage facilities and recreational facilities. Its V-shaped hull allows it to attain faster speeds while its typical length, usually ranging from 25 to 35 feet, makes it an ideal boat for a large group.
Plus, it allows for upgrades that make for a better onboard experience. The Docktail® Bar Boat Cup Holder and Marine Bar Accessories, for example, is a built-in bar with space for several bottles, cups, and other accessories like knives, towels, and bottle openers. It can be easily mounted on standard-sized rod holders, so it stays in place even with the boat on the move.
Dual Console Boat
A dual console boat has two dashboards, or consoles, on either side of it and a walk-through to the bow where the driver and passenger can sit and relax or cast a line. The driver has the option of either sitting or standing behind the console or sitting in front. The deck’s consoles are the helm at the right side and the passenger side on the left side.
When it comes to versatility, a dual console boat is a great choice! You can use it for relaxing on board, thanks to its large deck, as well as for fishing activities with its interchangeable seat system. You may even use it for the weekends, thanks to its larger dry storage area.
And while you’re putting your feet up or waiting for the line, you can listen to your favorite music with the Pyle Marine Radio Receiver Speaker Set. A Bluetooth-compatible stereo system that can also be used for answering calls through its built-in mic.
Best Boats For Fishing
As with recreational boats, the best fishing boat depends on where you intend to fish and what fish species you plan on catching.
Offshore Sport Fishing Boats
These are sturdy, fast and rugged boats that come fully equipped with rod holders, live wells, and fish fighting chairs as well as several instruments for finding their location and locating fish schools. Suffice it to say that these are designed to reel in large fish like tuna.
Since the driver and passengers of an offshore sportfishing boat are likely to spend several days on the water, these boats are also equipped with galleys, head, and sleeping quarters. These are too large boats measuring 30 feet and more that can handle rough weather and water conditions.
Even with the onboard rod holders, you may still want the Rush Creek Creations Round 16 Fishing Rod Storage Rack for added storage area. With its 16 rod and reel combos, it should be enough for an entire fishing crew’s gear.
You may also want the Garmin Striker 4 with Transducer, 3.5″ GPS Fishfinder to complement your boat’s onboard fish finder. With its clear scanning sonar technology, you should have an easier time finding where the large fish are in the vast ocean.
There are also fishing boats suitable for inshore and bay fishing, both of which are smaller in size than the offshore fishing boats. The inshore fishing boats are designed to reach shallow, hard-to-reach locations like a river delta or the areas in the Florida Keys. The bay fishing boats are designed to deal with the large waves and obstacles, such as buoys and water-way markers, on a bay.
Catamarans
These boats usually have spacious decks for relaxation as well as for fishing activities. These are also used for water sports like snorkeling and diving. As well as for sailing at a leisurely pace, thanks to their smooth ride.
Backcountry Flats Boats
When a backcountry flats boat sits on the water, it appears like it isn’t even there. So when an angler stands on it, the boat seems like it’s nothing but a flat piece of aluminum. It isn’t surprising since a typical flats boat measures between 14 and 18 feet in length while its sides are so low that it can float on extremely shallow water.
Bass Boats
If you prefer fishing in freshwater bodies, then you should be familiar with bass boats. These typically measure between 14 and 23 feet, with a V-shaped hull and low freeboard, and powerful outboard engines combined with trolling motors. These are designed for bass fishing in rivers and inland lakes.
Conclusion
Boats are a must-have if you live in or near the water, or you’re an avid fisherman. But these are also considered as worthwhile investments for people who like to relax away from the stress and problems of daily life on the water.
Whatever your reasons for buying a boat, you should buy one that’s right for your needs. You will get then get the best value for your money and, more importantly, actually enjoy being on it.
