Best Boats for Lake Fishing and Family Fun
Spending time fishing on a lake with family and friends can be priceless. To determine which type of boat is best suited for you and your family, take stock of where and how you plan to do your boating including the type and size of lake you may be wanting to boat on. Like most boaters, you'll probably be using your boat for other water recreation such as visiting dockside restaurants, exploring nature, or meeting up with other boat friends at the local cove. Once you've thoroughly considered what you want from a lake boat test out the boat to see if it fits your expectations.
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All-Purpose Freshwater Fishing Lake Boats
Inherently adaptable, all-purpose fishing boats can be used in different types of waters from rivers to lakes. Accessories may include rod-holders, live bait wells, integrated tackle centers and more. All-purpose fishing boats can be considered all-purpose since they are suited for a variety of activities like water skiing or tubing. Many will have swim platforms, tow sport attachments and other features for recreation when the fish are not biting. All-purpose fishing lake boats are perfect for cruising around and exploring new waterways, visiting dockside restaurants and all kinds of adventure on the water. -
Center Console Lake Boats
The name for these boats comes from the helm controls being mounted in a console placed in or near the center of the boat with deck space around the cockpit, an open area or bow seating forward and an open cockpit to stern. Center console lake boats range in size from 11-feet to over 60-feet. The best center console boats are designed to operate in a wide range of lake conditions and can part waves to provide a safer, more comfortable ride over longer distances. These boats often come with extensive fishing accessories as well as comfort and family features that make them a great recreational boat for family and friends. -
Dual Console Lake Boats
Regaining popularity, dual console fishing boats have a helm console, usually on the starboard side, and a companion console on the other side. Dual console fishing boats are generally more family friendly with greater comfort features and typically come with a wide range of fishing features. Most have the same hull design as their center console counterpart to help promote a smooth dry ride. Many dual console fishing boat manufacturers include cushioned seating, stereo systems, USB ports, cup holders. Larger dual console boats can have a cabin space under each console complete with a berth, galley, entertainment centers, air conditioning and dinette. -
Pontoon Lake Boats
Pontoon manufacturers have always recognized that pontoon and tritoon boats are stable platforms for fishing and can offer both fish and cruise packages. These packages often feature rod-holders, special seating, fish-finders and live bait wells. Pontoon and tritoon boats have gained popularity as a versatile, stable platform for all types of water adventures. A fish and cruise pontoon can be an ideal all-round boat that the whole family can enjoy. -
Wake boats
To accommodate the demand for a controlled wake many wake boats are designed to enhance the shape of the wakes their boats create. Various approaches and devices help affect a larger wake from a boat with most wake boats today carrying inboard propulsion engines that keep the propeller under the boat, away from the rider.
Resources for New Boaters
Boat Buyer's Guide
Loan Calculator
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