A Guide To 7 Different Types Of Fishing Boats

When it comes to fishing, having the correct boat may make or break your trip. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, selecting the correct fishing boat may improve your fishing experience and increase your chances of a good catch. This article will go over 7 different types of fishing boats, each suited for a unique set of fishing circumstances and tastes.

Fishing Kayak

For solo anglers who enjoy fishing in shallow or remote waters, sit-on-top fishing kayaks are an affordable option. These small fishing boats provide easy access and maneuverability. Modern pedal-drive fishing kayaks offer hands-free operation, allowing anglers to cover large areas of water efficiently.

Jon Boat 

Jon boats are a popular choice among small fishing boat enthusiasts. These flat-bottomed vessels, typically ranging from 10 to 20 feet in length, are commonly used on calm inland waters like rivers, ponds, creeks, and lakes. Made of aluminum, Jon boats can be manually propelled using oars and are compatible with outboard trolling motors.

Canoe

Canoes offer a convenient and portable solution for fishing trips. They are well-suited for ponds and lakes of various depths. Canoes come in different lengths, with shorter ones being more suitable for fishing purposes. Inflatable canoes are available in lengths starting from 8 feet, while fiberglass and wood canoes can reach up to 23 feet. The ideal fishing range for canoes is typically between 8 and 13 feet.

Deck Boats

Deck boats are specifically crafted to provide ample deck space, ensuring comfort during a day on the lake. The generous room available allows anglers to fish without feeling cramped in the rear area. These boats are well-suited for both lakes and oceans. However, it's important to note that deck boats may not be suitable for smaller bodies of water, limiting their usage to larger lakes, bays, and oceans. Their proper operation requires deeper water conditions.

Skiffs

For those seeking fishing boats suitable for shallow inshore waters, flats skiffs are an excellent choice. These boats have a shallow draft, allowing them to navigate through waters as shallow as 12 inches. With their unique design, flats boats provide access to fishing spots that are inaccessible to other types of boats. Typically ranging from 15 to 25 feet in length, flats boats are equipped with an outboard motor and have a seating capacity for two to three people.

Bay Boat

When it comes to coastal saltwater fishing, bay boats are the top choice. These boats are specifically designed for this type of fishing, featuring raised casting decks at both the bow and stern. This elevated position offers excellent visibility for spotting fish and making accurate casts. The majority of bay boats available are trailerable, allowing for easy transport, and their size typically ranges from 19 to 26 feet in length.

Center Console

Center console boats come in various sizes, with most falling into the mid-sized fishing boat category. These boats are well-suited for anglers looking to fish in rivers, bays, and oceans, offering versatility and performance. Ranging from 18 to 40 feet in length, these boats are often used for charters, comfortably accommodating 20 to 25 anglers on charters exceeding 35 to 40 feet in length. Center consoles are typically constructed from durable and lightweight materials such as fiberglass or balsa/vinyl ester resins. They are powered by outboard motors, with larger boats often requiring multiple engines. However, it's worth noting that smaller center console boats lack overnight capabilities, making them more suitable for day trips rather than extended stays on the water.

There are many more boat types out there. However, these are the boat types that are commonly what people have or the best ones out there for fishing.