Investing in a large-sized pontoon boat can be an unnecessary expense for buyers. Inflatable pontoon boats are an inexpensive means by which to have the experience of pontoon boat activities without the hassle of a full-size boat. They are durable, lightweight, portable, and occupy less space. Inflatable pontoon boats come packed with features and are created with the fisherman in mind. These pontoon boats are also great for traversing shallow water where regular pontoon boats won’t go. In this article we will discuss inflatable pontoon boats, related facts and some of the best options.
| Image | Title | Why We Like | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Classic Acc. Colorado XT | Best Overall |  | Check Price |
 | Sea Eagle 285 Frameless | Most Compact |  | Check Price |
 | Pelican Bass Radier 10E | Best Non-Inflatable |  | Check Price |
 | AQUOS Heavy Duty | Most Sturdy | | Check Price |
What is an Inflatable Pontoon Boat?
An inflatable pontoon boat floats using two inflatable pontoons or air tubes. The pontoons are supported by a metal frame or curved air bladders so that the pontoons are held together. The metal frame also act like a deck to support passengers and provides space for gear and mounting a motor. In the case of frameless designs, the seat will be inflatable. However, in metal frame designs, the seat will be real boat seat.
The boats can be inflated and deflated as required using an air pump. Also, the frames allow for quick and easy assembly and disassembly. They are extremely portable and can be transported in SUVs and pickup trucks. Riders can use oars, a small electric motor, or a gasoline motor for steering. They can come with many features and weight capacities, usually fisherman friendly.
Why Buy an Inflatable Pontoon Boat?
Shallow Water
An inflatable pontoon boat is ideal for shallow water. Their design allows for excellent maneuverability in shallow and narrow water. You can navigate to spots that might not be reachable on a large boat. These may include closed-off locations that are only accessible through rivulets. Fishers can reach the best angling spots and increase opportunity for a sizable catch. Additionally, inflatable pontoon boats can be used in most types of waters irrespective of the bed depth or water body width.
Beginners
Inflatable pontoon boats make perfect sense for beginners. The small size of these boats makes them easier to control and maneuver. Inexperienced boaters may feel overwhelmed at the helm of a large pontoon boat. Also, pontoon boats handle different from other types of boats. If you are new to boats and want to learn how to steer them, then an inflatable pontoon boat makes perfect sense for you.
Budget Friendly
Some people may wish to own a pontoon boat, but it may not be economically feasible. Inflatable pontoon boats provide folks the opportunity to fulfill their dream. Inflatable pontoon boats can be purchased for as little as a couple hundred dollars. While they may not have the bells and whistles found on larger pontoons, inflatable pontoon boats provide an enjoyable experience nonetheless. Maintaining an inflatable pontoon boat is easier and more cost-effective as compared to larger ones.
Solo Boaters or Fishermen
Individuals who prefer to boat or fish in silence, enjoying their own company, will find inflatable pontoon boats ideal. As the sole person on the boat, they will not find it lacking in any aspect. Most inflatable pontoon boats have accessories available including angling equipment, cup holders, GPS, fish finders, and trolling motors, among others. Finally, buying a large pontoon for a single person may not make sense economically.
Portable
Inflatable pontoon boats can be disassembled, deflated, and rolled, making them easy to carry. They can be transported in the back of an SUV or pickup truck. Inflatable pontoon boats are easy to assemble and don’t require many tools. Most required hardware and tools are included with the boats. All you need is a 12V DC air pump and an outlet in the pickup truck or SUV. Assembly time is about ten minutes. Their portable nature makes them ideal for people who live far away from the water. Individuals who are on a road trip can take an inflatable pontoon boat for fishing or leisure.
Environmentally Friendly
Some local governing agencies may not allow larger pontoon boats on local water bodies. It could be because of ecological or environmental reasons. An inflatable pontoon boat can be propelled and steered using small electric motors or oars. It makes them environment friendly and prevents the pollution caused by gasoline engines. If you want to buy an environment-friendly pontoon or your local body has imposed restrictions on gasoline engines, then an inflatable pontoon boat may be a suitable option.
Best Inflatable Pontoon Boats
Classic Accessories Colorado Inflatable Pontoon Boat
The Colorado inflatable pontoon boat is the best inflatable pontoon boat. Its 9′ long and made with a heavy-duty PVC bottom and nylon tops. Its durable steel tube frame is even more reliable thanks to sturdy powder-coating. Two 7′ aluminum oars provided as well as the option to mount a trolling motor. Many people modify the seat to make it into a swivel seat, although we just recently noticed that Classic Accessories came out with another Colorado model that makes a swivel seat optional.
The boat can carry a weight of up to 400lbs. and has enough room to stash all your gear. It has twenty pockets, two drink holders, a rear storage platform, six fishing rod mounting positions and two removable side pockets that combine to form a gear bag. The Colorado inflatable pontoon boat comes with a 2-year warranty.
Sea Eagle 285 Frameless Pontoon Boat
The Sea Eagle 285 Frameless Pontoon Boat is the best inflatable pontoon boat that is compact and easily carried around. It can be set up in less than five minutes. It weighs under forty-two pounds and is ultra-portable. The boat is made from 1000 Denier material and can carry a weight of up to 450lbs. It comes with a pair of oars but also has a mount for electric motors or engines. There are two rod holders provided along with four carry handles. The Sea Eagle 285 comes with a 3-year warranty against defects.
Aquos Heavy Duty Inflatable Pontoon Boat
Individuals who prefer an inflatable pontoon boat with a sturdy platform will like the AQUOS Heavy Duty Inflatable Pontoon Boat. The boat is 7.5 feet long and constructed from heavy-duty PVC to improve its ruggedness and durability. It comes with a sturdy aluminum floorboard that provides a nice fishing platform. The boat is portable allowing for easy transportation and takes fifteen minutes to assemble. The AQUOS Inflatable Pontoon Boat comes with a 3-year replacement warranty.
Its motor mount can support a trolling motor. Some users recommend buying a separate trolling motor that is a 30lb or 55lb thrust rather than the standard 20lb thrust as it gets you around the lake better. Two oars are included in the standard package.
Additionally, some of the larger customers (i.e. over 160 pounds) felt a little unstable on the 7.5′ model. Luckily, we have just learned that AQUOS is releasing an 8.8′ model and a 10.2′ model that should be more suitable for people over 160 lbs.
Pelican BASS Raider 10E
The Pelican BASS Raider 10E is a versatile offering for individuals who are looking for a good pontoon boat but don’t want an inflatable model. It can be used as a 2 man boat, trolling boat and a rowing boat. It consists of two seats that mount on top of the bottom boat, and has two semi-formed pontoons along the length to help with flotation and controllability. The front of the Pelican BASS Raider has a trolling motor mount while additional mounts are provided on the sides for rowing kit or rails. It is constructed from rotationally molded polyethylene for high durability. There are multiple storage compartments provided along with two cup holders.
Outcast Fish Cat Panther
The Outcast Fish Cat Panther is a great choice when it comes to the best inflatable pontoon boats. It is a nine feet long boat designed for flat waters and can carry a weight of up to 400lbs. It is made from heavy-duty PVC with an aluminum frame and welded seam construction. A pair of 7-foot oars is included in the package while a motor mount is provided for electric or gas motor. There is adequate space for carrying your fishing gear or other items. The Fish Cat Panther comes with a 5-year warranty.
Outcast PAC 900FS
The Outcast PAC 900FS will suit the requirements of the buyers who need a large inflatable pontoon boat. It is a 9′ long boat that can be used on large water bodies with rapids. The boat is designed to be stable especially when fishing and can carry a weight of up to 500lbs. It is made from 1100 PVC fabric and has welded seam construction. The four-piece aluminum frame adds to its sturdiness. It comes with two 7-foot oars while a motor mount is also provided. Outcast PAC 900FS is covered by an excellent 10-year warranty.
Outcast Fish Cat 13 Stand Up
The Outcast Fish Cat 13 is a top choice for fishers looking for an inflatable pontoon boat. Although it is advertised as a “two man” boat it has the option to convert into a one man boat. It has been designed to facilitate fishing while standing up. A casting deck and a lean bar can be deployed for fishing and stowed afterward. The boat is made from durable and rugged PVC fabric and has a weight capacity of 450lbs. Its 12-piece steel frame provides structural rigidity. It comes with a pair of 7-foot oars as well as a motor mount. The Fish Cat 13 comes with a 5-year warranty.
Classic Accessories Togiak Inflatable Fishing Float Tube
The Classic Accessories Togiak Fishing Float Tube is an inexpensive option for individuals requiring a inflatable pontoon boat. It is quite compact with 67” length and 39” width but can still carry 300 lbs. Its pontoons have heavy-duty PVC bottoms and nylon tops for enhanced ruggedness and durability. There are two fishing rod holders provided along with backpack straps. It comes with a high back stadium seat with adjustable backrest seat many storage pockets to help you keep your gear together while you fish. The Togiak Fishing Float Tube is covered by a 1-year warranty.
Outcast Fish Cat Scout Pontoon Boat
The Fish Cat Scout Pontoon Boat is a one man, do everything, inflatable pontoon boat that comes with a frameless design and offers ultimate portability. It weighs only around 35 lbs. The 7′ one person pontoon boat is so compact that if you are planning to explore a distant fishing location, you can easy take it on an airplane. The outer base fabric denier is 1000 PVC with welded seam construction offering great durability.
The one person pontoon boat also features two vinyl airecell chambers. The outer fabric and chambers are built with durable materials to withstand even the roughest territories. The pontoon boat is extremely stable in moving water, and it features a low profile for calm water. Fisherman can fish with great comfort from the kayak style seat.
You can store your gear behind the seat and have easy access when needed. With the kick-fins, you can move silently. Also, two-piece 5 foot oars are included for use in heavier water. The Fish Cat Scout comes with an Integrated Gear System to easily add pockets and rod holders. The maximum loading capacity of the boat is 400lbs. It has a five year limited warranty.
Bucks Bags High Adventure 9-Foot Pontoon Package
The Bucks Bags High Adventure 9 foot pontoon boat is one of the best inflatable pontoon boats. It comes with a sturdy powder coated steel frame connected to two heavy duty pontoons. The rotary welded pontoons are made from 18 ounce PVC coated polyester with internal vinyl bladders. The pontoon boat measures 55 x 96 inches (W x L), and it’s easy to carry weighing in at 60 lbs. The maximum load capacity is 375 lbs.
The boat has a dual position anchor lock system featuring the line lock system so you can release and retrieve the anchor in no time. The cargo deck is roomy. With the side storage pockets, there is enough space to keep all your accessories. The pontoon boat comes with an adjustable chair and foot rests. 6′ collapsible oars are included along with a motor mount. The pontoon boat comes with a 2 year warranty.
YILI Inflatable Fishing Float Pontoon Tube
You can have a great fishing or floating experience with the YILI inflatable pontoon boat tube. The maximum weight capacity is 286 lbs. A hydrodynamic hull guarantees superior tracking and easy steering. The thick inflatable seat comes with an adjustable inflatable backrest offering good support for long hours fishing on the lake. The 600D Oxford fabric is abrasion resistant, durable and waterproof.
The left side storage pocket and detachable waterproof black storage bag are perfect for holding a water bottle, bait, etc. At the back of the seat, there is a net in which you can store your daily catch. Velcro is present on the side and front of the tube to contain both the oars and fishing rods. The step in fins can be used for navigating and is a must have for backcountry anglers. With the two adjustable shoulder straps, you can easily carry the floating tube to the fishing destination.
Sea Eagle 375 Foldcat Pontoon Boat
The 375 Foldcat offering from Sea Eagle is an inflatable pontoon boat with plenty of customization options available. The boat can be installed with one or two swivel seats with or without pedestals. There are multiple addon options available from Scotty accessories including fishfinders and even a canopy maybe be fitted. The boat can be folded and unfolded with an inflation time of about five minutes. Lightweight aluminum crossbars and under bars give the boat structural integrity and rigidity. The Sea Eagle 375 Foldcat is one of the best and most versatile boats.
Conclusion
In conclusion, inflatable pontoon boats offer a perfect blend of portability, convenience, and versatility for boaters seeking an easy and enjoyable experience on the water. Their lightweight design and compact storage capabilities make them ideal for those who value flexibility and mobility, without sacrificing the stability and comfort that pontoon boats are known for. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or enjoying a day out with family, inflatable pontoon boats provide a reliable and accessible option that fits a wide range of outdoor activities. For those seeking a hassle-free boating adventure, inflatable pontoon boats are an excellent choice.
