Freshwater Fishing Boats
Lake Fishing Boats, Boats for Rivers and More - Which Freshwater Fishing Boat is Right for You
Freshwater fishing boats open up a lot of new opportunities for anglers – but finding the right one for your needs is important. The right freshwater fishing boat will accommodate where and how you plan to do most of your fishing, as well as other activities you plan on using the boat for.
Explore some of the different types of freshwater fishing boats below to see which one suits your needs, or read our fishing boat guide for more information on making the right choice.
Is a Freshwater Fishing Boat Right for You?
Inherently adaptable, all-purpose fishing boats can be used in different types of waters from rivers to lakes. Accessories may include rod-holders, live baitwells, integrated tackle centers and more. These boats are considered all-purpose since they're suited for a variety of activities like water skiing or tubing and other recreation when the fish aren't biting. All-purpose fishing boats are perfect for cruising around spotting wildlife, exploring new waterways, visiting dockside restaurants and all kinds of adventure on the water.
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Center Console Fishing Boats
Center console freshwater fishing boats feature controls mounted in a console placed in or near the boat's center, with deck space around the cockpit. Center console fishing boats range in size from 11 feet to over 60 feet and are designed to operate in a wide range of conditions. The sharp bow entry of a typical center console is designed to part the waves and provide a safer, more comfortable ride over longer distances.
These boats often have extensive fishing accessories, including live baitwells, rod holders, rod storage, and tackle centers. -
Dual Console Fishing Boats
Instead of a single console in the center of the boat, dual-console freshwater fishing boats have a helm console, usually on the starboard side, and a companion console on the other side. Most of these boats are designed to cut through choppy water to help promote a smooth, dry ride.
These boats typically come with a wide range of fishing features but are considered more family-friendly with greater comfort features. Larger dual console boats have cabin space under each console and may even come with a berth, galley, entertainment centers, air conditioning, and dinette.
Browse Popular Freshwater Fishing Boat Brands
MarineMax offers a diverse selection of freshwater fishing boats, designed to meet the needs of anglers who demand both performance and durability. Whether you're looking for a high-performance bass boat, a versatile multi-species craft, or a sleek aluminum boat for cruising and fishing, MarineMax has options to suit every type of freshwater angler.
Boston Whaler
Renowned for their unsinkable boats, perfect for fishing enthusiasts and family outings alike.
Sea Ray
Known for their reliable, multi-purpose boats, many Sea Ray models are well-suited for freshwater fishing with features like ample storage and smooth ride.
Scout
Offers a variety of boats, including versatile center consoles and bay boats that can handle both freshwater and saltwater, ideal for freshwater anglers.
Premier
Offers high-quality pontoons with spacious decks and fishing-specific layouts, perfect for freshwater anglers who prefer stability and comfort.
Harris
Specializes in luxury pontoons with excellent handling and fishing options, making them a great choice for freshwater fishing adventures.
Yamaha
Known for both outboard motors and well-designed fishing boats, Yamaha offers models that excel in freshwater fishing, with strong performance and reliability.
Crest
Known for versatile pontoon boats that can be customized for fishing, making them ideal for calm freshwater lakes and rivers.
Freshwater Fishing Boat FAQs
If you're new to fishing, the best freshwater fishing boat for beginners is typically a small aluminum boat or a pontoon boat. These boats are easy to handle, affordable, and can be used in various freshwater environments like lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. Brands like Bayliner and Crest offer great entry-level options that provide both stability and comfort for novice anglers.
The size of your freshwater fishing boat depends on the type of fishing you plan to do and the water conditions. For solo or small group fishing on calm lakes, a 16-18 ft boat is ideal. For larger groups or more versatile fishing in rivers and larger lakes, consider boats in the 18-22 ft range. Boats like Grady-White offer various sizes suitable for different needs.
Yes, you can definitely use a pontoon boat for freshwater fishing. Pontoon boats are incredibly stable and provide plenty of space for multiple anglers, fishing gear, and accessories like livewells and rod holders.
For bass fishing, the best freshwater fishing boat is typically a bass boat, known for its speed, agility, and fishing-specific features. Bass boats are typically around 18-21 feet, with features like large casting decks, storage compartments, and trolling motors. Yamaha specializes in bass boats that perform exceptionally well on freshwater lakes.
The cost of a freshwater fishing boat varies widely depending on the brand, size, and features. Aluminum fishing boats can start around $10,000, while bass and pontoon boats can range from $20,000 to $100,000, depending on customization options.
Resources for New Boaters
Boat Buyer's Guide
Loan Calculator
Still Not Sure What Boat to Choose?
New to Boating?
Boat Buyer's Guide
Loan Calculator
Still Not Sure What Boat to Choose?
New to Boating?
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