If you are a fishing enthusiast, then you know having the right type of boat is essential to improving the overall experience. However, with so many different options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This guide is here to help you choose the perfect fishing boat for your fishing needs.
Types of Boats
The first consideration when selecting the perfect fishing boat is to decide on the type of boat. There are numerous to choose from, including all-purpose, aluminum, angler, jon, and bay. These types of boats offer the following benefits:
All-Purpose
An all-purpose boat is exactly that, useful for all purposes. This means you can use it for fishing on the lake, up the river or out at sea, as well as for other activities. However, these lack customization options.
Aluminum
An aluminum boat is a great option for a small fishing boat, suitable for just a couple of people. These come in a variety of models, with options for a flat bottom or deep V-bottom. These boats are easy to transport and have basic seating options.
Angler
An angler boat is designed with anglers in mind. These boats have a V-bottom and come with a windshield for protection, as well as comfortable seating options. Furthermore, they often come equipped with rod holders and lots of storage space. Advanced electronics are easy to add, and the dashboard offers a secure place to mount them. An angler boat can also be perfect for a day out with family or friends, as it offers comfortable seating options and can be used for water skiing and other activities.
Jon
The jon boat is designed for hunters and serious anglers. These are utilitarian in design with just a hull and bench seating in the basic models. The flat bottom allows for easy access to both fishing and hunting for the keen outdoorsman.
Bay
The bay boat is often referred to as a platform boat. The wide and deep nature offers additional stability in large bodies of water. These are also designed with anglers in mind, however, unlike the Angler, they have a single center console. This console is often raised up, allowing the captain to navigate effectively over the heads of passengers at the front. A bay boat will come with dedicated fishing seats, and rod holders. Additional electronics can also easily be added. These boats are primarily designed for fishing, and don’t often offer extra amenities for other activities.
Must Have Features
Once you have chosen your desired boat type, it is time to consider the standard features, and the additional upgrades available.
Fishing Rod Holders
Having fishing rod holders on board is a must for any keen angler. They help keep your rods secure on the trip out and in, and can prevent tangling and damage. Make sure that the boat you purchase has enough rod holders, and that the placement works well for your needs.
Fuel Capacity
Knowing the fuel capacity of your boat is crucial. After all, you want to make sure that you won’t be caught out with no way back to shore. Consider how far you will travel by water to get to your destination when considering boats and motor sizes.
Storage Options
How much gear do you have? How many people will be fishing at a time? Do you need multiple coolers for live bait and catches? These are all important considerations to keep in mind as you look at boats. You want to find a boat that has enough storage space for all your needs and extra space as needed. There are dedicated fishing gear storage options available, so be sure to consider these.
Live Wells
For a keen angler, a built-in live well is a worthy consideration. This allows you to keep fish alive during the trip without needing to carry additional coolers and containers.
Depth Finder, GPS, and Fish Finder
Modern technology can help you navigate to the perfect fishing spot. Luckily, most boats now come equipped with GPS and depth finders as they help prevent accidents. A fish finder is an additional electronic device you can get. These use sonar to find fish and tell you how deep they are. For an angler just starting out, we highly recommend adding a fish finder to your boat purchase. They can help increase your catch chances while helping you learn more about the area you are fishing in.
There are so many boat options available, but making a list of your must-haves is a great place to start. When selecting a boat type the most important considerations are the size of your fishing party, the location you plan to fish, and your budget.
Use the considerations above to create your perfect fishing boat wishlist, then contact G3 Boats to discuss your options. For those wanting to explore and learn more, visit the G3 Boats website and experiment with building your dream boat.
