Fishing is all about finding your target where it lives, and if you want to get to the biggest fish, you’ll need a boat to take you to the hardest-to-reach spots. Buying a fishing boat is a complex process considering all the features that comprise your average fishing boat. Having a helping hand can make the process much easier, and that’s why we here at RVs and Boats for Less created this short guide to show you some of the basics. But if you really want to get a look at the differences between fishing boats, you’ll have to come into our dealership and showroom in Pocatello, Idaho. We’re located near Salt Lake City and Logan, Utah, and we proudly serve Idaho Falls and Twin Falls, Idaho, too.
Different Boats for Different Types of Fishing
Boats will vary greatly based on the type of fishing they’re meant for and the locations where the fishing will be done. If you’re primarily looking to fish lakes, rivers, and other shallower locations, you won’t need as large of a hull or as powerful of an engine. If you’re fishing the bayou, you’ll want a very shallow, flat hull and a surface drive engine to allow you to skip over weed and log-filled patches. If you’re heading to the deep sea, you’ll want to make sure you have engines that are powerful enough to get you out of any situation. Plus, it’s important to figure into the equation whether your boat can handle saltwater or not. Many boats require a saltwater package to make sure no parts will be corroded or damaged by the effects of saltwater.
Space
Space is a big concern and the size of boat you need will change based on how many people you expect to typically boat with and what size of fish you’re going for. Marlin fishing in the Florida Keys requires a big enough boat to safely haul the big, powerful fish onto the deck. However if you’re just trying to improve your bass fishing game, a small boat with an outboard engine might be your best for affordable utility. As the size of boat increases, so does the operating cost. Everything from insurance costs to to fuel and docking costs will increase substantially the more feet of boat you have, so make sure to factor that into your budget. If you have a family, you might consider buying a boat with a cabin, head, and galley. This gives you a place for the family to cool off during hot outings and it makes it so you don’t have to worry about needing an emergency place for little kids to use the bathroom.
Engine
The more dramatic the surf you’re up against, the more powerful of an engine you’ll need. When fighting big surf in the ocean, you’ll need an engine that can get you back to shore with ease. There are a few types of engine that are common on boats. Outboard motors are easy to maintain, inexpensive, and effective. Inboard motors are another good choice and often require less overall maintenance than outboard motors. Jet drive engines are another type of engine, but these are generally not ideal for fishing considering that they are louder and disturb more water than most other engines, which isn’t ideal for fishing.
Features
Different features and amenities can really make a difference in the cost of a boat, but they also pay off when you’re out on the water. As far as electronic gadgetry goes, a fish finder, depth finder, and GPS unit are indispensable for serious fisherman. You might also want things like a sonar system and radio for calling other boats or people on the shore. A fishing boat should always be equipped with the basics such as rod holders, a baitwell and livewell, and plenty of seating. You might also want to get a boat with a covering to provide some relief from the sun, especially if you’re bringing the family along.
If you want to take a look at the real differences between different fishing boats, stop by RVs and Boats for Less today. Our team of enthusiastic boating experts will help you find everything you need. Located Pocatello, we proudly serve Idaho Falls and Twin Falls, Idaho, as well as Salt Lake City and Logan, Utah.
