Pontoon boats are quite famous mainly for fishing purposes. They are stable, spacious and provide a great casting platform too. They can also be used for cruising and fun. However, the investment to be made is huge. If you are planning for a budget buy, then you will be looking for standard features with good quality. If you look for expensive pontoon boats, then you get the luxury and added features along with the standard options. In this article, we will see the best fishing pontoon boats for the money spent. We have also given options for the most affordable types like the inflatable ones.
How To Select The Best Fishing Pontoon Boat?
For many, owning a pontoon boat is about fishing. Those interested in fishing should look for options that can make your fishing experience worthy. Also for making the investment fruitful, it is better to look for options that can include both fishing and cruising and other activities. You will have to look for good spacious models. While taking your pontoon boat on a fishing adventure, you will have to have good storage requirements for your fishing gears. This can include fishing rods, fishing nets, etc. You need to have sufficient storage space for these. In general, about 22 feet long pontoon boats will be a good choice for those passionate fishing anglers. With a larger size, you get more in terms of storage and convenience.
Now after length, the second consideration will be for the floorplan. The best pontoon fishing floorplans will look like two boats in one. One part will be a comfy cruiser and another part will be a fishing boat. The model should offer the best of both worlds. This means you don’t have to look for other options; your pontoon boat can be your party companion too. The following items will be present in the best fishing pontoon boats:
- Rotating chairs: Full rotating chairs will provide better access to fishing waters.
A comfortable seating option is a prerequisite in fishing pontoon boat options so that you can be in the Sun for long periods without trouble.
- Rod holder: So that you can keep your rods in place when they are not in use.
- Live well: So that you can hold the fishes you caught till the weigh in time. Thereby, they get a better survival chance when released.
- Depth/fishfinder: Using this GPS device, you can locate the best fishing spots
- Tackle holder: So that you can hold fishing tackles.
Most fishing pontoons will also give you the option to add a trolling motor to the bow. Look for stable fishing pontoon boat models which can be easily driven to as many fishing spots as possible. If you are into having fishing in saltwater medium, then you can look for brands offering saltwater safe pontoon boats. You can also look for more customized features, however, that will further add to the expenses.
Best Fishing Pontoon Boats For The Money
Now let us see some of the best fishing pontoon boat options.
2022 Sylvan L3 Party Fish
This pontoon boat is a perfect layout of both worlds, i.e. fishing and cruising. The 23’10” pontoon boat can have about 12 persons. They have an open floor plan With Aluminum hull material, the pontoon boat uses gasoline. When out for fishing, you can enjoy the experience in the high-back fishing chairs. You have the fishing station with livewell which is 30 gallons. There is a pair of rod holders with multiple rod lockers and 4 rod lockable storage at the port side. The model features a depth finder. When you intend to go cruising, you can also relax in the port back-to-back lounge. You can also make this the spot for watching the fishing action. The Sylvan L3 Party Fish comes with an en extended aft deck. It has a 4-step stainless steel boarding ladder. The blue interior mood lighting and 10-foot Bimini top add to the fun features of the pontoon fishing boat. The deck also features changing room. They offer a good console. The pontoon boat also has AM/ FM Stereo with Bluetooth. There is a Lifetime Warranty + 6 which is the industry’s best. It may cost you around $80,000.
Specifications:
| Max Horsepower | 150 HP |
| Third Tube Max Horsepower | 300 hp |
| Beam | 102 in |
| Dry Weight | 2100 lbs |
| Max Persons | 12 / 1650 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 38 gal |
| Overall Length | 23’10” |
| Tube Gauge | .080 in |
| Pontoon Diameter | 25 in |
Sun Tracker Fishin’ Barge 22 DLX
The Sun Tracker Fishin” Barge comes with a lot of fishing and other comfort options so that you can call up your friends and have laughs and memories with them on your fishing adventure. The Fishing” Barge 22 DLX has an overall length of 24′ 2” and deck width of 8’ 6”, so there is plenty of room. The maximum carrying capacity is 11 persons. There are two loaded fishing decks with both having aerated livewells (with 32 gallon of total capacity). There are four fishing chairs (two at the fore and two at the aft) which provide comfy seating while casting. They have lockable rod storage options near aft fishing deck. The midship lounge seating port and starboard both includes the STOW MORE storage system. With the STOW MORE storage system, you get storage space for everything. There is a storage option in the seatbacks, under the seats and even at the aft fishing deck. The Fishing Barge 22 DLX also comes with a 10′ Bimini top. The console is well developed and features deluxe soft touch sport steering wheel. The pontoon boat has a port wheelchair-access gate. The rear boarding platform has 4-step folding boarding ladder & grab rails. You can also have fishing package with fishfinder and foot controlling trolling motor. The fishing pontoon boat comes with 10+LIFE™ Limited Lifetime Warranty. Prices start at $34995.
Specifications:
| Max Horsepower | 150 HP |
| Beam | 8′ 6″ |
| Dry Weight | 2040 lbs |
| Max Persons | 11 |
| Fuel Capacity | 32.1 gal |
| Overall Length | 24’2″ |
| Pontoon Diameter | 24 in |
Godfrey Pontoon Sweetwater 2186 FS
The Godfrey Pontoon is known to offer great experience with fantastic value. With Godfrey fishing pontoon boat floorplans you can cast and reel to your heart’s content. You also get to enjoy the water all day long with your favorite people. There is a blend of Godfrey quality, comfort and togetherness. The Sweetwater 2186 FS comes with stern fish seats and it offers great space for casting a reel. It has double entry stern gates. You get optimal seating for the whole family. They offer many features in terms of integrated tackle storage, aerated livewell, rod locker storage, and available fish stations. Integrated rod storage can accept full-size rod and reel combos, allowing you to position them within easy reach for quick access. They have the AM/ FM stereo player. There is also the depth/ fish finder. The steering wheel is upgraded. It also features a stainless steel comfy ladder. They have Limited Lifetime 10 year structural warrant. Prices start at $40,381.
Specifications:
| Max Horsepower | 150 HP |
| Beam | 8′ 6″ |
| Dry Weight | 2000 lbs |
| Max Persons | 11 |
| Fuel Capacity | 30 gal |
| Overall Length | 21’11” |
| Pontoon Diameter | 25 in |
Avalon Venture Quad Fish
Venture Fish pontoon boats not only provides a comfortable fishing experience, they also offer a wide range of versatile features compared to other traditional small fishing boat. You can balance out the desire for a great fishing set up with enough space to relax with the Avalon Venture Quad Fish boats. There are 16 and 18 ft models features four fishing stations in the bow and aft areas of the pontoon boat. The 16 feet can hold up to 6 persons, while the 18 feet can hold up to 7 persons. There are rod holders. The setup also includes livewell so that the whole crew can look out for the day’s catches. If you are someone interested in a high-tech setup, then there is option for USB ports, Garmin Fishfinders, and multiple depth gauges. The Venture Quad Fish comes with plush lounging seats and Bimini top. There is extensive storage space. It has Viper steering wheel. There is rear aluminum ladder. You can enjoy fishing as well as get some entertainment with Fusion stereo and speakers. The Pontoon boat comes with 10 year Lifetime limited transferable structural warranty. The prices start at $24790.
Specifications (18 feet):
| Max Horsepower | 75 HP |
| Beam | 7′ 6″ |
| Dry Weight | 1600 lbs |
| Max Persons | 7/ 1050 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 25 gal |
| Overall Length | 19′ 5″ |
| Tube Gauge | .080 in |
| Pontoon Diameter | 23 in |
Lowe Sport Fish 214
The Lowe Sport Fish 214 is designed keeping in mind both fishing and recreation. The pontoon boat comes with quality construction and premium performance. It has a plush mid-ship L-lounge with table. The table has drink holders. There are four fishing chairs—two fore and two aft which lets you fish from any angle. There is a 9 feet Bimini top so that you can stay cool on those hot days. There are rod lockers so as to store and protect the fishing rods when not in use. It also comes with a stern 4 step fold down ladder which provides good support when getting in and out of the water. The pontoon boat also features a rich console featuring automobile grade gauges and comfort steering. There is radio so that you can crank up to the tunes. They also have Limited Lifetime Transferrable Warranty. Prices start at $29,801
Specifications:
| Max Horsepower | 150 HP |
| Beam | 8′ 6″ |
| Dry Weight | 1701 lbs |
| Max Persons | 13/ 1485lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 24 gal |
| Overall Length | 22 |
| Tube Gauge | .080 in |
| Pontoon Diameter | 25in |
Premier 220 Cast-A-Way
Innovative and comfortable is what the Premier 220 Cast-A-Way is all about. The pontoon boat is built for offering you with total fishing functionality. It features Captain’s station with livewell. The 360 degrees of accessible fishing is the highlighting feature. So there are no limits fishing aboard the Cast-A-way. It features four premium fishing spots and 3-in-1 active imaging transducer. With advanced hull technology, you get better handling. The pontoon boat can hold about 16 persons. It also features 11′ Evolution Bimini . The rear angler station has everything you need within easy reach. There are rod holders, rod lockers and dual integrated tackle boxes. The pontoon boat also features phone storage pockets. There are twin deluxe fishing chairs and stainless steel cup holders. There is changing room and deputy bow chairs. The pontoon boat also has Ricochet ladder. There is JL stereo speaker with subwoofer and amplifier. The pontoon boat comes with a 10 year warranty for the model.
Specifications:
| Max Horsepower | 250 HP |
| Beam | 8′ 6″ |
| Dry Weight | 2750 lbs |
| Max Persons | 16 |
| Fuel Capacity | 47 gal |
| Overall Length | 23’4″ |
| Pontoon Diameter | 25 in |
Best Fishing Pontoon Boat for the Money- Inflatable Pontoon Boats
Inflatable pontoon boats can be a great option for fishing. If you are somebody interested in fishing, but not in the budget to buy a full spec pontoon boat, then these can be the best option for you. They are lightweight and hence easy to carry along. They are compact and hence can be taken to any remote fishing spots without even the need for a trailor. They will fit in your vehicle when deflated. They can be taken to those locations where handling a big pontoon boat becomes difficult. They also allow easy installation. Most of these pontoon boats can be used in both freshwater and saltwater medium. So you can also go to bay, creek, etc. These models are usually used by one or two persons. If made from quality and durable materials, they can last longer. With stable construction, you can be safe in the waters. With oars, they give a traditional experience. There are options with motor mounts, which can be bit faster. With good storage options, they can be handy for your fishing adventure. Most models come with rod holders, fishing net, apron, etc. There are many inflatable fishing pontoon boats, which can be worth the money you spend. Some of these are mentioned below:
Classic Accessories Colorado XTS Pontoon Boat
You can step up your fishing game with the Colorado Pontoon boat. It measures 9′ when assembled with a size of 108″L x 56″W x 26″H (to top of seat). The pontoon boat weighs around 80lbs and has a maximum capacity of 400lbs. The padded swivel seat offers increased mobility with comfort. The Pontoon boat and its oars disassemble into a compact size which allows for easy transport and storage. Built to American Boat and Yacht Council safety standards, the heavy duty pontoon boat comes with abrasion resistant PVC bottom and a tough nylon top coating so as to offer more added protection. They come with a powder coated steel frame. The bladders are cold and heat resistant. The pontoon boat comes with 7 foot two piece aluminum oars with bronze oarlocks which are strong and non-corroding. There are plenty of storage options with the 10 mesh pockets, 12 zippered pockets and the two insulated drink holders. They also feature a large capacity rear storage rack. There is motor mount. With the detachable micro slit foam fly patch you can keep your gear at the ready. There have adjustable foot rests and seat mount. The transport wheels allow you to reach your favorite fishing spot with ease. The removable side pockets can combine to form a portable gear bag. The inflatable pontoon boat has removable stripping bag. Note that motor is not included. They come in dark blue and grey color combination. Bladder patch kit is also included. They offer 2 year limited warranty.
Classic Accessories Colorado XTS Pontoon Boat
Classic Accessories Roanoke Pontoon Boat
Another option from Classic Accessories is the 8’ Roanoke Pontoon boat measuring 96″L x 55″W x 29″H when assembled. It is much more lightweight compared to XTS, making it easier to maneuver. This heavy duty inflatable pontoon boat is also made from abrasion resistant PVC bottoms with tough nylon topping, adding to the durability. The pontoon boat comes with molded plastic fold down seat. The 43 lbs boat has maximum weight capacity is 350lbs. The armrest storage comes with two large pockets which are zippered. There is a rear facing fabric platform for additional storage. The adjustable foot rests which adjusts to a range of lengths can add to your comfort. The inflatable pontoon boat is built to American Boat and Yacht Council Standards with Class 1 river rating and one year limited warranty. You can take them for your fishing adventures in lakes and rivers. They are not rated for motors hence you need to depend on the 6 foot 2 piece aluminum oars with heavy duty oarlocks. . The Roanoke comes in blueberry and silver color combination.
Classic Accessories Roanoke Pontoon Boat
Sea Eagle 285 Fishing Pontoon Boat
The Hunter Green 285fpb is a stealthy inflatable frameless one man pontoon boat meant for fishing. It is lightweight, being ultra portable and frameless, it can be set up within 5 minutes. The 9′ x 4′ Pontoon boat is deflated to a 24″x14″x12″ size. It weighs 42lbs with floorboard and motor mount. It is great for lakes, rivers, bays, creeks or any other water body. They have a maximum load capacity of 450lbs. The pontoon boat comes with a unique inflatable U-hull configuration which maximum fishing space with the least amount of hull weight. The material used in the construction is 1000 Denier Reinforced material with Quadruple Overlapping Superior Glued Seams. The full fabric floor when installed with 7lbs removable wooden floorboard provides a stable casting platform. Standing in this platform and casting can help in still water fishing. With360° Swivel Seat the 7″ Pedestal you get a high and full view of the water. You can also sit in comfort and turn to reach everything you need with comfort. The raised oarlocks allows for better rowing. There are three separate air chambers so that maximum safety is ensured in any situation. The large air chambers can support huge amount of weight. They draft as little as 4 inches of water and hence you can even set to shallow waters which are not meant for heavy boats. The inflatable pontoon boat has two Scotty rod holders and mounts at the stern which can accept a multitude of Scotty accessories, including rod holders, anchor locks, cup holders and more. Rod is not included. There are 4 carry handles. The inflatable pontoon boat comes with a 3 Horse Power engine capacity. The model is NMMA and CE certified.
Sea Eagle 285 Fishing Pontoon Boat
AQUOS Heavy-Duty Series Inflatable Pontoon for two
The AQUOS inflatable pontoon boat can be used in both freshwater and saltwater. The maximum loading capacity of the inflatable pontoon boat is 2 passengers or 950 lbs, making it worthy for your fishing adventure with a partner. It weighs around 118lbs (boat only) and hence it is compact and portable. With the 304 high grade stainless steel grab bar you get extra stability and safety. The 360 degree rotating folding seat which is height adjustable between 9.6″ and 13″ can make your long boat rides more comfortable. It can be installed in any desired location and offers plenty of back support with the generous cushion. The model comes with updated comfortable rowing oars. It also has an updated attachable 6.43’ paddle design which allows you to easily pass through any waters. The Aluminum Floor Board comes with a size of 51” X 95” which can meet your different requirements. The EVA anti-skid pad can prevent you from slipping and falling. It also offers excellent resistance to cold and heat so that you can enjoy long hours of fishing trip. The 1680D coated waterproof Oxford fabric material has reflective stripes on the back with increased night time safety. The Aquos inflatable pontoon boat has four individual air chambers with two side air chambers having patented design providing utmost safety and performance. The wide positioning of the pontoon creates more water contact surface so that better balance and stability is achieved. The inflatable pontoon boat has storage spaces for fishing rods: two on the front and two on the back. There is also a bottle pocket, three tool pocket and stainless steel hanging rings. There is also the fishing bag and bait bag. The side storage bag with waterproof zipper design can hold clothes, electronic equipment, etc. The inflatable pontoon boat also comes with the certificate you may need in case for registration.
AQUOS Heavy-Duty Series Inflatable Pontoon for two
Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker Frameless Fishing Boat
The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 is an inflatable frameless two man pontoon boat meant for fishing. It is roomy, portable and lightweight. It weighs 78 lbs with floorboard and mount. The 10’1” x 5′ Pontoon boat is deflated to a 31″x40″x9″ size. Being lightweight and having frameless design, it can be set up in just 15 minutes. They have a maximum weight capacity of 1200 lbs. It is a comfortable inflatable pontoon boat model for two which can be handled easily by one. It is great for lakes, rivers, bays, creeks or any other water body. The pontoon boat comes with a unique inflatable U-hull configuration which provides incredible. You get maximum fishing space with the least amount of hull weight. The material used in the construction is 1000 Denier Reinforced material. The 360° Swivel Seat with the 7″ Pedestal offers a high and full view of the water. You can sit in comfort and turn to reach your gear, motor or to follow that fighting fish. They have a motor mount for up to 4 HP gas motor or up to a 74 lb. thrust electric motor. The speed estimates is about 5-6 mph with gas motor and about 4-5 mph with electric motor. There are 4 built in rod holders. The inflatable pontoon boat has two Scotty rod holders and mounts at the stern which can accept a multitude of Scotty accessories, including rod holders, anchor locks, cup holders and more.
Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker Frameless Fishing Boat
BRIS 10.8 ft Inflatable Boat Pontoon Boat
The BRIS Inflatable Pontoon Boat can be used for fishing, rafting, etc. What makes it different from the above mentioned models is that it has more carrying capacity. It can accommodate maximum of 5 people (4 adults plus a child). This is good as it also comes at the affordability of an inflatable pontoon boat. There is a 3 year warranty period. Premium quality materials are used in the construction of the inflatable pontoon boat. Heavy-duty 1100 Denier PVC is used with polyester support which much more heavy-duty than most of 1,000 Denier PVC fabric. It has excellent resistance to tearing, tension and breaking. The heat welded seams offer perfect seaming so that it can be used in fresh water, salt water and also in extreme humidity conditions. The quadruple overlap seams provide maximum strength and durability. It also features heavy-duty sectional aluminum floor. It is sturdy, corrosion-proof platform for all water activities like diving, fishing and snorkeling. The separate internal air chambers provide added safety on water. The all around, durable rubber strike prevents punctures. They have 2 aluminum bench seats which may not be so comfortable. There are 2 aluminum oars. There is a marine plywood transom for outboard motor. The transoms are covered with splash guards which minimizes back splash and also protects the transom holders from heat and UV rays. The deep V-keel with rub-strake protection allows easy planing. The kit also includes repair kit, foot pump and carrying bag. There is not much in terms of storage options, which is a disadvantage. However, you can go out with your family and enjoy the fishing experience.
BRIS 10.8 ft Inflatable Boat Pontoon Boat
