Whether you’re looking for a fishing boat or something that will also accommodate family and friends, the type of marine environment in which you plan to fish should factor into your buying decision. For example, if you’ll be fishing in saltwater, you’ll want a boat with systems designed to stand up to the harsh effects of saltwater corrosion.
Hull Material
The hull material that a builder uses to make your boat will have an impact on the way it performs on the water. For example, if you plan to fish in saltwater, the hull must be designed to stand up to corrosion. This may mean incorporating systems like closed cooling and flushing to keep saltwater from contaminating the engine.
The majority of fishing boats are built using fiberglass construction. This is typically accomplished by cold molding, where structural elements are molded separately and then attached to the hull with fiberglass and epoxy resin. The fiberglass may be made from cloth, mat, or roving and is often reinforced with a combination of materials like Kevlar and carbon fiber to optimize specific properties at a minimum cost.
Hull Shape
The hull of your boat has a significant impact on how it rides in and over the water. The type of hull that you choose can make or break how comfortable your trip is.
For example, a flat bottom hull, which has practically no deadrise, is fine for calm waters but may shake your teeth loose and give you a wet ride in rough water conditions.
Consider the hull design you want when choosing a fishing boat. Tournament anglers want large, divisible, conveniently located live wells with aerators to keep their catch alive. Other fishermen wish to have ample storage space, like compartments and lockers, plus places to mount additional rod holders. They also want a high fuel capacity to get to their favorite fishing spots quickly and efficiently. You can visit this website for more information.
Hull Design
A fishing boat’s hull design will depend on how and where you plan to fish. If you want to fish primarily in calm lake waters, you may need a small open bow or center console boat with a shallow draft.
If you want to fish in the ocean or extensive inland waterways, a larger vessel with a deeper draft may be more appropriate. Additionally, if you want to feel tournaments or take overnight trips, a boat with berths and a sufficient galley will be necessary.
You should also consider what type of rod storage you need. For example, if you want to run electric downriggers, look for a boat with enough flush-mount rod holders to accommodate your gear. In addition, if you fish for panfish, ensure the life is divisible and has a sound aeration system.
Hull Construction
Regarding hull construction, some boaters look for a specific type of build. For example, if you fish in saltwater, you may want the added durability of closed cooling systems and a flushing design to help with maintenance and cleaning.
Other hull characteristics to consider include the length and beam. A longer, the wider boat is laterally stable and can hold more people or equipment. However, it also needs more power than a shorter, narrower vessel.
Another essential consideration is rod storage and the ability to accommodate your rods. Tournament anglers often want a significant, divisible life with an aerator system. Finally, you must ensure the boat has enough fuel for your fishing trips. In addition, check out the warranty.
Warranty
It’s essential to consider the total cost of boat ownership. The price of the boat may be the cheapest part of the equation, but fuel costs, registration fees and taxes, insurance, mooring, or dry stack storage are additional expenses that must also be budgeted for.
Manufacturers have become more conscious that good warranties can help differentiate their products. Some offer better coverage (up to a lifetime on hulls) and more user-friendly language than the old-style fine print.
Before you start shopping, decide where you want to boat (fresh or salt water – lakes or oceans), what activities you envision (fishing, coastal cruising, racing, island hopping, scuba diving, or even living aboard), and how often you plan to take your new boat out. These factors will influence the type of fishing boat that is best for you.
