There are many different styles of fishing boat. Do your research and explore the different types of fishing boats available. Consider what you want to use your boat for, where you plan to use the boat and how many people you expect to be on board etc. Knowing its purpose will assist you in choosing the right fishing boat for you.
Some of the different styles of fishing boats are below.
Centre Consoles - When it comes to all-round fishability in different environments, centre console fishing boats are tough to beat. They are the most versatile and user friendly of all fishing boat types.
The helm is located on a console in the middle of the boat which makes for great mobility and excellent visibility. Many centre consoles include an onboard toilet and cater to your comfort more than other boats of a similar size.
Cuddy Cabin - A cuddy cabin serves as a great small-family recreational, overnighter and fishing boat. It is like a centre console but with an enclosed cabin area in the front.
The cabin usually comes with some basic living amenities, such as a small kitchen and a sleeping area. If you are interested in doing more than just fishing on your boat, then this could be the right style for you and your family.
Flybridge Sportfishing Boat - When it comes to deep-sea fishing well beyond the sight of land, an offshore sportfishing boat is the ultimate option. These vessels are perfectly suited for extended fishing trips and boast some of the most powerful engines you can find. They can also offer very comfortable living areas.
Walkabouts - With a cabin enclosing the bow and offering 360-degrees of fishability, walkabouts or walkarounds are often the choice for dedicated anglers who don’t mind fishing when the weather is awful. They are also a top pick for family anglers with small children, who may need a break from the action now and again.
Pilothouse - The biggest advantage of a Pilothouse is that they can offer complete protection from the weather. The pilothouse is located in the centre of the boat with two side decks for access to the forward cockpit. A pilothouse usually does not have a living area and but can offer a proper toilet and a good amount of storage space.
Aluminum fishing boat – Adaptable and often surprisingly inexpensive, aluminum fishing boats are one of the most popular types on the water, especially for people who are looking for a smaller style boat. They are ideal for anglers who want to work the shallows, navigate through rock or launch from a remote landing.
There are currently only two choices of engines for your fishing boat, that being either petrol or diesel, both of which have their good and bad points.
Boats with petrol engines tend to cost less to buy. This is because petrol engines are less fuel efficient than diesel engines and therefore cost more to run. Petrol engines generally cost more to maintain as more parts are required for each service (spark plugs, HT leads etc).
Diesel powered boats cost more to purchase as they are much more fuel efficient than petrol powered ones but will require less maintenance.
Generally speaking, petrol powered boats are also quicker than diesel ones, so this is another factor to consider when buying one. Weigh up all of the options and make the right choice for your situation but our advice is to always go for a diesel-powered boat.
Fishing boats can vary wildly in price and prices will differ depending on style, size, age and condition. The great thing about boating is there is a boat to suit every budget meaning that everyone can have the opportunity to own a fishing boat.
Think about whether you are after a restoration project, something pristine or top of the range and do a bit of research to get an idea of what the sort of fishing boat you are looking for may cost.
Using a good brokerage company when buying a fishing boat can have many advantages. They will have lots of experience, a variety of boats in one location and they can help to make it as stress free as possible.
Alternatively, you can buy through a private seller. You will always get more information on the true nature and quirks of a boat from the owner themselves and they are often more flexible.
Buying a used boat can be a good idea for boaters with experience. New boaters might benefit from buying a new boat that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. If considering a used boat, it is advisable to research the best used boat brands and models.
This is one of the most important questions to ask when buying a new fishing boat. When searching for a fishing boat, you need to know exactly what features you are looking for. Consider if there is an adequate number of rod holders? Is there a large enough casting deck? What type of livewell does the boat have? Are there enough rod storage compartments etc? Knowing exactly what you are looking for will help you greatly in finding the perfect fishing boat for you.
Like with any type of boat, the costs will vary from boater to boater and boat to boat but working out the average running costs of owning a fishing boat and how you plan to use it is very important. A good way of doing this is to ask other boaters for their knowledge and experiences. Below is a list of some of the running costs that you will need to factor in when buying a fishing boat:
Mooring fees
Insurance
Boat maintenance
Fuel
Heating
Has the boat had a recent a survey?
When buying a second-hand boat, it is advisable to have a survey done by a qualified marine surveyor. They will advise on any faults on the hull and with the boat’s internal systems and highlight any issue the boat may have so you have peace of mind that you know exactly what you are buying.
What documents and paperwork will you need to buy a fishing boat?
Having the correct paperwork in place when you buy your fishing boat is important. This includes ownership papers, insurance, boat safety certificate etc. Make sure you have all of these in place when you buy.
