cheap fishing yachts

Fishing Boats For Sale by Owner & Dealers

Find used fishing boats for sale of all types

Select a Boat Type Below To Generate Search Results for Specific Fishing Boats .

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Includes all types so you won't miss any boats you might want to see.

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Bass Boats  

These are  primarily  small  freshwater fishing boats . Bass Boats are u sually rated for up to five passengers, but really designed for two or maybe three anglers, who cast lures from open platforms at the bow and stern. 

Lengths r ange from 16 - 24 ft.

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Bay / Flats / Skiff  

Designed for shallow water,  Flats boats can access  inshore fishing locations other boats can't reach. Flats may have a poling platform over the engine for anglers.

B ay Boats may have higher sides and slightly deeper hulls which make them  a great hybrid option for smoother performance in large bays or lakes. 

Lengths r ange from 13 - 22 ft.

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Center Console  

Typically saltwater fishing boats, the primary characteristic of the Center Console is a command station centered on a level deck.  This is different from a walk-around where you step up onto the deck or a raised surface. Their versatility has made them a very popular boating type around the gulf states as they provide 360 degrees of fishability. 

Lengths r ange from 18 - 42 ft.

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Fish & Ski  

All purpose watersport boats which may have live wells, rod storage, or other fishing amenities. The engines can be inboard or outboard and usually powerful enough to tow skiers or tubes.  Generally these are very versatile boats  accommodating many family activities.  

Lengths r ange from 18 - 26 ft.

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Sportfish / Convertible  

Larger boats designed for multi-day outings and larger fish in deeper waters.  Sportfishing boats are a step up from Center Console fishing boats and may come with fully enclosed command centers and elaborate out-rigging setups. 

No adventure is too ambitious in a  Convertible Fishing boat with a luxurious interior that is much more like a Motor Yacht.

Lengths r ange from 25 - 80 ft.

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Walkaround  

Vessels with a forward cabin surrounded by a wraparound deck.  Similar to a center console, the Walkaround boat is a little larger with more amenities. Commonly used for day cruising and saltwater fishing, This boat type usually fills the gap between those looking for Center Consoles and Sportfishing boats.

Lengths r ange from 18 - 30 ft.

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The World’s Five Best Cheap Fishing Boats

Cheap fishing boats aren't as uncommon as one might think and the average American angler can probably afford one of the cool new bay boats under $50,000  we checked out a while back, or maybe one of the 10 top center console fishing boats under $20,000 . But, what if those boats are still beyond your current financial flexibility? Don’t worry, we feel your pain. Just about everyone’s strapped at one time or another – but that doesn’t mean you have to go boat-less. Here are five new boats that are dirt cheap, but have some serious value to us anglers. (Editor's note: please remember that prices change with time and recently they've been changing rapidly. There's a fair chance that by the time you see this the MSRPs will have changed from what was originally published).

• Bass Raider 102
• Pond King Patriot
• Sun Dolphin Pro 102
• Tracker Topper 1542
• Vibe Yellowfin 120

Bass Raider 10E – The Bass Raider 10E is the only cat of sorts in this cheap boat round-up, yet even at just 10’2” long and 4’2” wide it can handle 3.5 horses on the transom. Not that you need to get a gasoline outboard, because a 40-pound-thrust electric will move it along just fine at jogging speeds.

Price: $949

Up-Sides: The cat design makes stability and tracking far better than expected. It fits in the bed of most pick-ups, and comes with two swivel seats, a pair of vertical rodholders, carry handles, and is pre-wired to put the motor on the bow.

Down-Sides: Both rod holders are located on the bow, so you’ll want to add some aft. Be careful not to drag the Ram-X plastic hull across the boat ramp, or eventually you’ll wear a hole in it.

Visit: Pelican

Pond King Patriot – Pontoon boats are incredibly popular, and this is one spectacularly cheap pontoon. The Pond King Patriot fits two anglers and can be bought in finished form or as a kit.

Price: $2,599 for the completed boat; $999 for the kit (deck not included)

Up-Sides: With two anglers aboard the Pond King is utterly roomy, with plenty of space for gear. The pontoons are all-welded, and it comes with a pair of swivel seats, a carpeted marine-grade plywood deck, and a six-inch kick rail.

Down-Sides: Some assembly is required even with the full boat version, since the deck and pontoons ship unassembled. Pond King doesn’t advertise a maximum rating for gasoline outboards, which means you’ll be limited to electric power or an exceedingly small engine.

Visit: Pond King

Sun Dolphin Pro 102 – In a nod to the millennial way of life, you can actually buy the Sun Dolphin Pro 102 on Amazon.com.

Price: $1,759

Up-Sides: Though it’s rather tiny the Sun Dolphin Pro 102 is seriously jazzed up with fishing features. It has two swivel seats, an aerated livewell, three integrated rodholders and horizontal racks for two more rods, molded-in cupholders, a battery box, navigation lights, and it’s pre-wired for a bow-mount trolling motor. On top of that it’s amazingly stable for its size and with the 56-inch beam, slides right into the bed of a full-sized pick-up.

Down-Sides: Be careful not to drag the polyethylene hull across the boat ramp, or eventually you’ll wear a hole in it. Also, with two people aboard and all the gear you need for a day of fishing, it can feel a bit cramped at times.

Visit: Sun Dolphin Boats

Tracker Topper 1542 – You want plain and simple? It doesn’t get much simpler than a Tracker Topper 1542. In fact, its features are limited to a pair of bench seats, a stowage compartment, and carry handles.

Price: $1,595

Up-Sides: This boat has a .063” 5052 aluminum alloy hull 15 feet long and five feet wide. That’s a lot of boat for the bucks, and this is the largest rig in our round-up by a long shot. Yet at 190 pounds, a couple husky guys can still wrestle it into a full-sized pickup bed or onto a stout roof rack, so you may not need to get a trailer. Plus, this boat can carry up to 25 horses, which is far more power than these other cheap boats can handle.

Down-Sides: Those aluminum bench seats, oh, my aching back. Also, like most aluminum jon boats, the stability isn't great and shifts in weight have a big effect.

Visit: Tracker Boats

Vibe Yellowfin 120 – Cheap fishing kayaks will naturally be a consideration for many anglers on a budget, and we included the Vibe Yellowfin 120 on our list because while there are certainly cheaper kayaks, most have molded-in seats which are incredibly uncomfortable and limit your ability to fish for more than a couple of hours.

Price: $699

Up-Sides: Fishing basics like molded-in rodholders, tacklebox holders, and gear tracks for adding accessories are included. At 65 pounds, just about anyone can easily load and unload the Yellowfin 120 into or on top of most vehicles.

Down-Sides: This is the only boat in our round-up limited to a single occupant. Be prepared for a workout as this is the only boat in our round-up that’s limited to self-propulsion. Though a step above the seats in uber-cheap kayaks, the one in this Vibe can’t be adjusted for height and may fit some people better than others.

Visit: Vibe Kayaks

Whether you're a beginner angler or an old salt on a budget, one thing's for sure: owning a fishing boat, even a cheap one, will help you catch more fish. So start considering your options and pry open that wallet, before the next fishing season begins.

You say you have a bit more to spend and you want a little more boat, but aren't ready to spend $20,000 to $50,000? Then check out our 10 Best Fishing Boats Under $10,000 article.

11 Most Affordable Fishing Boats

The price of  fishing boats runs the gamut, and if you search through our Boat Finder tool , you’ll discover some fishing boats that cost little more than a moped, some others that are pricier than a house, and a few that could only be affordable to one-percenters.

What exactly is “affordable” or "cheap," of course, depends on your own personal finances. What happens when you break things down into different types of fishing boats, as you consider affordability? You discover nearly as wide a range of options.

So let’s look closely at these 11 most affordable fishing boat models for 2021, including All-Purpose Fishing Boats , Aluminum Fishing Boats ,  Bay/Flats Boats , Center Consoles , Pontoons , and Walkarounds .

Explore All-Purpose Fishing Boat Brands & Models

1. Princecraft Hudson 170 DL WS

All-purpose fishing boats are ideal for anglers who enjoy a wide variety of different forms of fishing and going after various target species.

Starting under $30,000 for the boat-motor-trailer package including a 90-horse Mercury FourStroke, the Princecraft Hudson 170 DL WS gets the nod because it’s one of the most affordable ways to get into an all-purpose fishing boat that has the beef to hit large open waters with confidence.

The 5052-H36 aluminum alloy hull has a 13-degree transom deadrise and a steep V in the bow to take on waves, the bow to midships hull bottom is double-plated, and an oversized walkthrough windshield provides lots of protection to the boat’s occupants.

Visit Princecraft to learn more.

2. Tracker Super Guide V-16 SC

No matter what socio-economic category you might fall into, it’s a fair bet you’ll find the Tracker Super Guide V-16 SC very affordable, with its sticker price of under $16,000. And while this may be a relatively small boat , it does have enough size to fish in a huge range of waterways with up to four people aboard.

A stock 40-horsepower Mercury outboard and a custom-matched galvanized trailer are included in the package price, as are a few surprising big-ticket items like a bow-mounted electric trolling motor, a fish finder , and five different seat pedestal locations plus two movable swiveling fishing seats.

Visit Tracker Boats to learn more.

3. Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC

Light tackle fishing has become incredibly popular, and light tackle anglers have gravitated more and more towards bay boats and flats boats .

The $20,000 mark should count as reasonably affordable for most people, and that’s right where the cost of a Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC sits when equipped with the stock 60 ELPT Mercury FourStroke outboard and a galvanized trailer. What separates it from the competition is Mako’s “Advanced Inverted V” hull-form. The unique shape, which looks more or less like an upside-down V when viewed from the bow, allows the boat to compress a cushion of air under the hull somewhat like a power catamaran does. That cushions wave impacts as it runs.

It also offers enhanced stability, and carries the full beam of the boat all the way forward so the bow casting platform is significantly larger than those found on many bay and flats boats with significantly more length. Owning this boat will prove to be affordable, too, because Mako backs it with an eye-opening five-year stem to stern warranty and a lifetime limited structural hull warranty.

Visit Mako Boats to learn more.

4. Sportsman Masters 207 Bay Boat

If you value quality as much as you value affordability, the Sportsman Masters 207 Bay Boat is likely to catch your eye. This is one of few boats that keeps cost very reasonable (MSRP starts just over $35,600) yet maintains just as much of a focus on fit and finish as it does on cost. In fact, the Masters 207 looks every bit as good as many boats that cost tens of thousands of dollars more. And construction is also above par, with touches like Sileather marine silicon upholstery, recessed stainless-steel hardware, backlighted switches, and fully-finished hatches that rise on gas-assist struts.

This boat also excels when it comes to rigging, and it includes not one but two livewells (a 20-gallon well in the aft deck and a 10-gallon livewell in the bow), a nine-inch Garmin GPSMAP 942xs MFD at the helm, and six vertical rodracks on the console in addition to the two flush-mount gunwale rodholders.

Visit Sportsman Boats to learn more.

5. Smoker Craft 162 Pro Angler

The Smoker Craft 162 Pro Angler is all about delivering big fishing potential for a relatively small price tag. Although it starts at just $22,438 with a 50-horsepower Mercury FourStroke on the transom, it rides on a 0.100” thick aluminum semi-V hull with a sharp entry that can take on serious waves. The anglers gain full protection, too, with a fold-over center windshield that closes off the walkthrough and shields the helm and passenger’s seat from wind and spray.

Sure, it has all the expected fishing features (like a 25-gallon livewell, a locking rodbox, pedestal fishing seats, and rigging for a standard bow electric trolling motor), but more than that, it has the capability to head for far-off hotspots out in open waters even when the weather’s tough.

Visit Smoker Craft to learn more.

6. Boston Whaler 170 Montauk

In many fisheries, center consoles are the hands-down choice for fishing boats among both serious and casual anglers, and it’s no wonder why: this design allows for 360-degree fishability, easy maintenance, and maximum adaptability to different types of fishing.

With a starting price of just over $36,000 for a relatively simple boat with just 17 feet of length, the Boston Whaler 170 Montauk may seem like an odd pick for affordability. But there’s more here than meets the eye, because even older model Montauks are just about always in demand. That means that these boats tend to maintain a higher resale value than most other brands. As a result, when you go to resell a 170 Montauk you’re likely to recoup a much higher percentage of your initial investment than usual. So in the long run, you actually end up spending less.

The big selling point of the 170 Montauk is, of course, Whaler’s famous unsinkable construction. These boats are built with fiberglass outer and inner liners, and the gap between them gets pumped full of closed-cell foam under high pressure. When the foam solidifies it bonds with the fiberglass, essentially creating a single unsinkable piece. And this boat come with a big performance perk, too, hitting a sporty 40 mph with the standard-issue 90 horsepower Mercury FourStroke outboard.

Visit Boston Whaler to learn more.

7. Sea Chaser 20 HFC

It’s very difficult to find a full-sized fiberglass 20-foot center console with a nationally advertised price below the $40,000 mark, but Sea Chaser 20 HFC  lists at close to $38,000 rigged with a Suzuki DF150ATX3 on the transom. Sea Chaser is part of Carolina Skiff, so this is a high-volume builder which can pull down pricing thanks to economy of scale.

Just what do you get at this level of affordability? 100-percent fiberglass construction, padded coaming bolsters, stainless-steel hardware, a 25-gallon livewell, and a leaning post as opposed to one of the low-cost flip-back cooler seats seen on many price-point boats.

Visit Sea Chaser to learn more.

8. Godfrey SR Sunrise 180 F

Anglers who do their fishing on ponds, lakes, and coastal bays often favor pontoon boats for their fishing machines. While many pontoons (though certainly not all of them) aren’t appropriate for use in large, open waterways, these boats shine in areas where wave heights are limited and they can provide more comfort than just about any other type of fishing boat.

The Godfrey SR Sunrise 180 F is a simple, straightforward pontoon boat with fishing seats in the bow and stern plus a big L-shaped lounger. MSRP stays under the $25,000 bar if you stick with a 25-horsepower Suzuki outboard, notches up to just over $26,000 with 50 horses, and still remains under $29,000 with 75 horsepower on the transom.

An aerated livewell, two rodholders, and tackle stowage compartments are in the mix, but probably the biggest perk is that this boat can handle having nine anglers aboard at the same time and everyone will have a place to sit down. For a fisherman with a big family, that’ll be tough to beat.

Visit Godfrey Pontoon Boats to learn more.

9. Lowe SF214

You can get into some seriously fishy action with the Lowe SF214 , which is rigged out to be a competitive predator. It has a rodbox, integrated tackle stowage, four fishing seats, a 13-gallon livewell, and is pre-rigged for a bow-mount electric trolling motor. You’ll surely want that trolling motor as well as the optional Lowrance Hook2 4X fishfinder, but even with these added on to the $20,095 MSRP, price doesn’t go much beyond $21,000. Upgrade the 25-horse stock motor to a 90 HP Mercury FourStroke to put a spring in the boat’s step and the SF214 is still thoroughly affordable, remaining well below the $30,000 mark.

Note that this boat also comes with a huge L-shaped lounger, a dinette table, a heavy-duty Bimini top, and a stereo system. When the fish aren’t biting you’ll still have endless options for family fun, aboard this pontoon boat.

Visit Lowe Boats to learn more.

10. Jeanneau Leader 6.5 Series 3

Some might say that it’s a stretch to call any sportfishing boat large enough to have a cabin affordable. But even in the world of walkaround boats , there’s a huge degree of variability in bang for your buck.

Rigged out with the standard 150-horse outboard, Jeanneau manages to keep the list price of their 22’6” long, 8’2” wide Leader 6.5 Series 3 under $60,000. While the cabin is compact is does have a berth, stowage, and the option for a MSD, so the boat includes all the components that make a cabin a must-have for so many anglers.

The surprise feature on this boat is the foredeck, which is kept flush rather than arching up to expand cabin headroom. This allows Jeanneau to outfit the cabin-top with cushions, turning it into a huge sunpad. Add on the optional ski tow arch, and you have a do-everything, all-weather fishing boat that everyone in the family is going to be thrilled to own.

Visit Jeanneau to learn more.

11. Striper 230 Walkaround OB

Although base price for the Striper 230 Walkaround OB is the highest in our round-up at just under $74,000, in many ways, this boat also provides the most capability of any in the running. The protected helm station has a hard top over it for all-weather usability, and the cabin is large enough to include a convertible dinette table as well as offering perks like an MSD and reading lights.

If you want a boat you can weekend on or stay out on after the sun sets to enjoy some night fishing, this will be a top pick. On top of that, with almost 23’ of length, a wide 8’6” beam, a 20-degree transom deadrise, and 3,800 pounds of displacement, you’ll be comfortable aboard the 230 Walkaround even when the seas kick up.

Visit Striper Boats to learn more.

As we said at the outset, we recognize that “affordable” means different things to different people. But whether you’re blue collar or white, rich or poor, high income or low, it’s a sure bet that you can afford one or more of the fishing boats on this top 10 list.

But if you say your budget is strained and even these aren’t realistic options, check out this bonus boat...

Bonus Boat: Alumacraft V14

The Alumacraft V14 may be Spartan and simple, you can get this brand-new model with a nine-horse outboard (enough to get you on plane with a couple of people aboard) for about $6,000. While there may not be a bunch of fancy fluff and oodles or accessories beyond the bench seats, this sturdy, reliable little rig will have you out on the water and fishing for less money than it would cost to buy a 10-year-old Honda in sort of okay shape.

Which would you prefer: a plain but brand-new fishing boat, or an old used car? Call us biased if you must, but we’d claim that this choice is a no-brainer.

Visit Alumacraft to learn more.

Read Next: 10 Most Affordable Center Console Boats

You May Also Like:

• 23 Most Affordable Entry-Level Boats
• Buying a Fishing Boat: Buyer's Guide
• Center Console vs. Walkaround
• Bay Boats vs. Center Consoles
• Find the Right Boat for Your Lifestyle

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Used Boats For Sale Under 100000

Finding a used boat for sale under $100,000 that fits your needs when it comes to number of passengers, horsepower, inside accommodations, and other features on board can be a challenge with so many options available on the market today. There are many types of boats available under $100k like center-consoles , cruising yachts , and fishing boats , but typically your options are going to be slightly older boats if you're looking in the above 40-foot range. Still, there are plenty of opportunities with brands like Sea Ray , Carver , Regal, Bertram , Ocean , Hatteras , Tiara , Boston Whaler , and more. The team at United Yacht Sales has decades of experience helping boaters like you find the right vessel that meets your requirements. Contact one of our yacht brokers today to get started on your search.

Yachts up to $ 100,000

Reel Grumpy

46' Post 1986

35' Cabo 1993

28' Regal 2800 Bowrider 2016

Grabthar's Hammer

27' Bennington 25 RX 2022

23' Axopar 22 T Top 2023

Yellowfin 21

21' Yellowfin 21 2018

24' Robalo 247 Dual Console 2017

Making Memories

35' Sea Ray Sundancer 320 2005

35' Sea Ray 350 Sundancer 2011

42' Tayana Vancouver 42 1980

45' Freedom 45 1992

44' Beneteau 423 2003

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The Best Small Fishing Boats of 2024

Small crafts will get you out fishing without the massive bills that come with owning a boat

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Small fishing boats are often just as capable as larger ones that cost quadruple the price. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford to take out a loan to buy the latest fiberglass bass boat or a deep-v hull offshore craft. Even if they can afford it, some anglers aren’t interested in a larger boat, especially if the brunt of their fishing is on small lakes and streams. Another factor is simply that some anglers might not have a vehicle large enough to tow a bigger dedicated fishing boat.

The good news is that there are options out there to fit a variety of fishing styles, scenarios, and budgets. From the latest in fishing kayaks to singe-person bass boats, we’ve narrowed down the best of the best so you can focus more on fishing. Here are our top picks for the best small fishing boats being made today.

• Best Overall: Apex Marine Gamefisher
• Best Budget: Pelican Intruder 12
• Best for Lake Fishing: Pelican Bass Raider 10E
• Best for Bays and Estuaries: Old Town Sportsman PDL
• Best One Man: Bass Pro Shops Pond Prowler 8
• Best for Two People: Sun Dolphin American 12′ Jon boat

How We Picked the Best Small Fishing Boats

As a lifelong fisherman, I have had the privilege of fishing from a variety of watercraft over the years—large and small. Some of which could be considered the top boats made today. I used that experience to guide my choices here. Some of the craft here I’ve either fished from personally or I’ve used a similar model in the past. Additionally, I compared key features of many of these boats to help make my decisions. Among the most important considerations considered include:

• Length and width: How big is the boat? How much of that space is usable? Is the boat wide enough to stand up in?
• Weight: Does this boat require a trailer? Or is this craft light enough to toss in the back of a pickup truck?
• Fishing-specific features: Does this boat have rod holders? Live wells? Or is it a bare-bones boat ripe for customization?
• Construction: What materials were used in the construction of this boat, and how durable is it?

Best Small Fishing Boats: Reviews and Recommendations

Key Features

• Length: 14’
• Weight: N/A
• Weight Capacity: 625 Pounds
• Strong, one-piece hull
• Great weight capacity
• Requires a trailer

The wide hull of the Gamefisher is made from a single piece of aluminum which gives it great strength and stability. This is a boat built to bounce off stumps, rocks, and whatever else the angler can throw at it in the shallows. Because this boat has a mostly open floor plan, it’s ideal for modifications too. There are three bench seats already included, but it is easy to add some aftermarket swivel seats.

While user reviews note it is light enough to be carried by two people, the boat’s length almost necessitates a trailer, which is an extra expense for anglers who don’t already own one. However, this boat offers more in versatility than most other options on the market. For instance, it’s rather easy to add a blind for waterfowl hunting, making this a good option for all-around outdoorsmen and women.

• Length: 144”
• Weight: 126 Pounds
• Weight Capacity: 420 Pounds
• A lot of boat for the price
• Extremely stable
• Weight capacity seems low for a craft this size

The plastic Intruder is a solid lightweight Jon boat that comes with a great price tag. At just under $700, the Intruder has a simple, but highly versatile design. This boat can easily be modified with seats, rod holders, and fish finders. It is a good option for anglers who want something that could transition seamlessly to waterfowl hunting. While this is a 12-foot boat, the weight is only 126 pounds, making it easy for two anglers to quickly load into the back of a larger pickup.

Our only downside for the Intruder is the 420-pound weight capacity seems a little on the low side for a 12-foot boat. It should handle two anglers for a day at the lake just fine. More than that, plus gear might be pushing things. However, for fishermen on a budget, this is a highly versatile craft.

• Length: 122”
• Weight: 145 Pounds
• Weight Capacity: 600 Pounds
• Easy to modify
• Incredibly stable
• Excellent price point
• Some reported shipping issues

The Pelican Bass Raider is one of the most popular plastic bass boats on the market today. It has developed a rather dedicated following from those who like customizing boats to suit specific fishing styles. With a minimum weight capacity of 600 pounds, this boat can easily hold two adults for a day of fishing, plus all the gear you might want. While it doesn’t come with a live well or rod holders, they are rather easy to add after the fact. We also like the Bass Raider for the shallow draft. Another bonus is that it is already wired up for an electronic motor and marine electronics.

A common problem reported in user reviews is boats shipped with subpar packaging. Some users have reported receiving damaged craft . Another problem was some users didn’t get a title with their shipment. This becomes an issue when trying to register in some states. However, for $1,000, there is much that can be done with this boat.

• Length: 12’
• Weight: 116 Pounds
• Weight Capacity: 500 Pounds
• PDL drive seamlessly transitions between forward and reverse
• Rugged construction

A kayak makes an excellent choice for inshore angling on bays and estuaries, and Old Town produces some of the best in the business. I’ve used Old Town’s kayaks in both inland lakes and mangrove flats, and I am always amazed at their stability. The biggest selling point of the PDL line is the pedal drive system. This drive can seamlessly transition from backwards and forwards simply by reversing pedaling motions. Not every pedal kayak on the market can do that. I love how this kayak leaves my hands free to cast and fight fish while still being able to navigate. I find the Sportsman PDL to be very rugged—I’ve run the drive system aground, into logs, and I’ve wrapped the prop in weeds many times without issue. Pedaling in reverse usually clears the tangle.

The biggest downsides to this kayak are the $2,700 price tag and the 116-pound weight. It’s not an easy kayak to get into the water or onto a trailer by yourself. And you can forget about wrestling it onto a rooftop rack. However, the stability and ease of navigating make this boat of the best kayaks on the planet.

• Length: 8’ 7”
• Weight: 100 Pounds
• Weight Capacity: 515 Pounds
• Compact and easy to transport
• Great price point
• Already wired for a trolling motor
• No front lift handle
• Seat doesn’t lock down

The Prowler is a simple little boat that is perfect for solo anglers. Because of the compact design, this boat slides into the back of a pickup rather easily. The flat bottom allows anglers to get back into shallow areas that other boats can’t reach. This boat also boasts an impressive 515-pound weight capacity that makes it comfortable for anglers of all sizes despite the boat being less than nine feet long. Much like the Pelican Bass Raider, this boat is often heavily modified by users. The polyethylene construction is basically a blank slate for anglers looking to build the ultimate tiny bass rig.

One downside mentioned in user reviews is the lack of a carry handle on the front. It can make transporting a little more difficult. The seats also don’t lock down, and several user reviews mentioned minor problems with the seat shifting on them when they leaned over to get in their tackle box or land a fish.

Best for Two People: Sundolphin American 12′ Jon Boat

• Weight: 110 Pounds
• Weight Capacity: 532 Pounds
• Lightweight
• Extremely affordable
• No enclosed storage spaces

This Jon boat’s width and flat bottom make it an excellent choice for two anglers. The Sundolphin only weighs 110 pounds, making it easy to slide into a trailer or the back of a pickup truck. It has four built-in rod holders and multiple cup holders molded into the polyethylene hull. The boat’s materials also make it easy to hose and wipe down at the end of a long day of fishing.

The biggest downside to this boat is that there are no enclosed storage areas, which is a dealbreaker for some. That also means a battery for a trolling motor will need to sit on the deck exposed to the elements. However, for a boat of this size, the sub $800 price tag is hard to beat.

What to Consider When Buying a Small Fishing Boat

With the price of almost everything being extremely high right now, most anglers are turning to a smaller boat. But not all boats are created equal. If you want to fish saltwater flats, a long, wide specialized fishing kayak makes more sense than a flat-bottomed Jon boat. On the flip side, most small aluminum boats work best for inland lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. For intercoastal fisheries, select a craft built to withstand the corrosive saltwater environment. Don’t forget to always rinse your craft thoroughly after each trip in saltwater to extend the life of the craft.

Storage and Transport

The biggest benefit of a smaller boat is that it is easier to store and transport. However, it’s still important to take stock of how much storage space you have in your garage before you buy. Storing your boat inside will significantly increase the life of the craft. Try to figure out your storage options before you buy to avoid unwanted headaches.

Another factor some fishermen and women neglect is how to transport the new craft to the water. Smaller bass boats and kayaks are sometimes easily transported in a pickup bed. However, if you’re like me, you might find yourself needing to purchase a small trailer for transport. This can mean buying and installing a hitch if you don’t already have one.

Depending on the state, you may need to register the trailer too. Here in Michigan, a smaller kayak trailer under 2,500 pounds doesn’t require a plate. However, if you’re planning to buy a smaller aluminum boat that requires a heavier towing system, you may need to put plans in your budget for getting a plate.

Motors and Batteries

Unless you plan to paddle, pedal, or row your small fishing boat, you will also need to invest in a motor and possibly a marine battery . Most smaller boats can be powered by a simple trolling motor, but that adds another $150 to $1,500 just in motor costs alone. While a cheap trolling motor can do the job, the battery can add on another $150 to $500 depending on whether it is a lithium, absorbed glass mat (AGM), or lead acid battery. Small, simple outboard motors can go for anywhere from $250 to $1,800, depending on the make and model. However, the good news is that for a small 10 to 12-foot boat, most anglers don’t need a super fancy motor.

Registration and Other Legalities

Registration for small fishing boats is often unnecessary if the craft is non-motorized. That means most kayaks, canoes, and rowboats are often exempt from licensing and other regulations. In most states, you only need to register a boat if you add a small motor, whether it be a trolling motor or outboard. There is a ton of variation here from state to state, so be sure to review your state’s rules before you head out for the first time. Although some small boats may not require registration, many states still require you to have life vests and preservers for everyone on board. Most states also require some sort of running lights if you plan to fish after dark or near dawn or dusk. Fortunately, there are some cheap options for boat lighting online.

Q: Are small boats safe?

Small boats are perfectly safe as long as they are not overloaded or used in poor weather conditions. Pay attention to the weight limits of each craft. Besides having the proper number of life vests onboard for the number of passengers, be sure to read the owner’s manual thoroughly. The manual will have safety information specific to the boat, including conditions to avoid.

Q: What is the most stable boat for fishing?

In most cases, a wide, flat-bottom boat will usually be the most stable. Although manufacturers have become more sophisticated in their designs and many modern fishing kayaks also offer incredible stabilization in a very narrow package. However, a good rule of thumb is that the wider the hull, the more stable the boat will be. Consequently, this is why so many modern fishing boats have wider, more stable platforms regardless of the size of the overall craft.

Q: How long do small fishing boats last on average?

This depends on the type of boat and how well it is maintained. I have relatives and friends who have owned the same aluminum boats for decades. Two of my plastic kayaks are over 12 years old and still floating. Storing your small boat indoors in the winter months will help increase its lifespan considerably. With plastic boats, avoid exposure to sunlight, as UV light can bleach and ruin the color. Don’t forget to winterize the motor before putting the boat into extended storage at the end of the season. Properly maintained, there’s no reason a small fishing boat shouldn’t last 15-25 years.

Best Small Fishing Boats: Final Thoughts

While it might seem like larger boats are all you hear about these days, there is still a market for small fishing boats. Many anglers are re-discovering the effectiveness of a simple Jon boat like the Apex Marine’s shallow draft for reaching hidden spots that no one else can get to. Additionally, these smaller crafts are simply a more cost-effective way to get on the water without totally breaking the bank.

Why Trust Us

For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.

Travis Smola is a Staff Writer with Field & Stream. He spent eight years writing about all things outdoors with Wide Open Spaces before looking for a new challenge with Field & Stream in 2023. Contact the author here.

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