Pontoon Boats

Fishing Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats are made for fishing.  With pontoon boats known for being steady, shallow, and with plenty of space on the deck, fishing and pontoon boats are quite a natural pairing.  When you choose a pontoon boat for fishing purposes there are a number of factors that will enhance your fishing experience including seating options, trolling motor options, fish finders and other accessories, availability of a live well for your pontoon boat, and many other considerations.

Fishing Pontoon Boat

This page is dedicated to discussing what options are out there for pontoon fishing boats and we will be setting out to find the latest and greatest innovations as well as compare different option as far as fishing pontoon boats and accessories for pontoon boat fishing.

Pontoon Boat for Fishing

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When we talk about a fishing boat, one would imagine a sleek bass boat, or a sturdy aluminium V-hull or some would even think of an offshore tolling machine. But today all those notions are moving towards: pontoon boats.

A pontoon is a metallic tube, flotation device with buoyancy sufficient to float itself as well as a heavy load over it. Boats using pontoon as a floating device are called pontoon boats. Pontoon boats are typically cylindrical and do not have inside access; they are simply for flotation.

But, today pontoon boats are gaining popularity as a fishing boat and they have proved to be great fishing platforms. They are stable, they have multiple anglers stand to cast, they can accommodate large groups with ease. Today with the advancement of technology, pontoon boats for fishing can be equipped with high tech fishing techniques like locking rod storage, live wells and pedestal mount seats. Mostly all pontoon boats have large and open dashboards that make it easy to install fish finders or a GPS or both. Pontoon boats offer comfort features like sun protection of bimini top, tables for drinks or meals, and even a Porta-potti. Some of the pontoon boats well known for fishing are listed below:

  • Sylvan Mirage Fish 820 4-PT
    • It is a compact and capable fishing pontoon that is able to tread into shallow back bays.
    • The tough fishing station includes rod holders, rod storage rocks, and a measuring scale as well.
    • The average power Sylvan Mirage can provide is nearly 90 horsepower.
  • Bennington SXP Series 16 SFXP
    • It comes with twin pedestal mount fishing seats up front, a live well, rod storage.
    • It is capable and comfortable for a fishing trip for a family, with plenty of space over board, to accommodate fun for everyone.
    • It has a bimini top, dual rod holders, and a standard fish box.
    • The maximum power of the pontoon boat is comparatively lower, close to forty horse power.
  • Starcraft EX 20 F4
    • It has been in the market for more than 100 years now.
    • The boat features pedestal mount fishing seats, lockable rod storage, bimini top, and ample gear space.
    • The maximum power it can provide is 125 horse power, and 200 horse power in case of a tri-toon.
  • Harris Flotebote Cruiser 200 FS Fish
    • It offers two pedestal mount fishing seats in place of bow loungers, plus two additional in the aft lounge.
    • There is also a well appointed rear work station, an aerated live well, and rod holders as well.
    • Power is 115 horse power.
  • SunChaser 8520 Classic Fish EXP
    • It has four pedestals mount fishing boats, and a stern fishing station with dual fishing rods, rod storage, a live well and a measuring tape as well.
    • It can seat ten and provide entertainment through its standard stereo.
    • Its maximum power is 125 horse power.

Best Inflatable Pontoon Boat – A Step Forward to Your Fishing Success

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An inflatable pontoon boat is especially designed for fishing. You should keep in mind that there are several types of inflatable fishing boats, but there is a strong belief that inflatable pontoon boats are perfect for fishing. Moreover, this category includes a large variety of types, features and brands and it is indeed desirable and necessary to be informed well about them so you choose your best inflatable pontoon boat and start fishing successfully.

The boat reflects a fisherman’s style, preferences and level of experience. Having this in mind, a good advice before searching to find the perfect fishing boat is to first consider your own personal requirements, and only afterwards to think about the technical areas. Of course, the issue of budget cannot be neglected because very often it defines what we would get and maybe not what would we want at the same time. However, knowing the best inflatable pontoon boat type according to majority of users is more than welcome whether it is affordable for you at the given moment of not. Maybe the first association related to it would be convenience. An inflatable pontoon boat consists of two large air bladders linked by a curved air bladder or by a metal frame. The seat may be inflatable itself or attached to a metal frame. Some of their general features are: they are especially created for fishing and fly-fishing (your inflatable fishing pontoon boat will already have some important features on board such as pockets, rod holders, oars, a board frame where you may attach other fishing accessories), they are mainly for solo use (there are not as many options of pontoon boats for two or more people and their portability is the real advantage), inflatable pontoon boats are not multipurpose boats, but they have certain characteristics that make them quite versatile (being a small pontoon boat, you can easily reach remote fishing places), they are aimed for calm waters, they are resistant, stable and cost effective.

Sea Eagle is one of the leading brands in the area of the best inflatable pontoon boats. Sea Eagle Frameless Pontoon Boat is one of the best small pontoon boats in 2017. It is frameless, which means you do need metal to be attached. The frameless pontoon boat comes with the 100% money back guarantee. The sea eagle is tough as steel. It is perfect for fishing on lakes, ocean bays, remote ponds and even rivers.

Another brand that belongs to the category of the best inflatable pontoon boat is Bucks Bugs. Its High Adventure 9-Foot Pontoon Boat is the best choice in terms of price and performance. It is delivered with a powder-coated steel frame, a dual-position anchor system, adjustable footrests, a motor mount and a fairly roomy cargo deck.

To understand what the best inflatable pontoon boat should have to be that makes you think on time about what to follow to fish successfully!

Small Pontoon Fishing Boats

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There is no fun in pontooning without some fishing. There are multiple pontoon boats available in different sizes for fishing. They have plenty of features and functionalities for you take up a fishing expedition. Some of the most popular pontoon fishing boats that versatile and yet small in size are listed below.

Bennington S Series

The Bennington S Series fishing boats blend quality and utility providing great value for their cost. The 8’ narrow beam models are ideal for people who are looking for small pontoon fishing boats. Made in lengths ranging from 16 to 21 foot, these boats can accommodate half a dozen to ten people easily. A four-pole rod holder and a L-seat livewell at aft are available along with a Striker 4 Fish Graph to find swarms of fish. Gas engines from 9.9hp to 115hp depending on length as well as an electric motor may be opted for. The S series starts from around $15,800 for the 16-foot model while the 21-foot costs upward of $20,000.

Berkshire CTS 17 A Fishing Boat

The Berkshire CTS 17A is the perfect small pontoon fishing boat to go on a fishing expedition in style. It has all the basic amenities required for a great fishing experience without compromising on comfort and can house eight to nine persons easily. It has a starboard top Fishing center with a livewell that can also hold rods. Fishing gadgetry includes a Humminbird fish/depth sounder to find you the perfect spot for fishing. With an outboard engine of 60hp, moving about is a breeze. For people who are looking for a slightly bigger boat, the CTS 20 A is another option from Berkshire worth considering.

2017 SUN TRACKER BASS BUGGY 16 DLX

For a large family or a group of friends who spend the weekend fishing and having fun on the water, the Sun Tracker’s Bass Buggy 16 DLX is the perfect water vessel. It has features that are at par with the best small pontoon fishing boats. The boat has two foldable fishing chairs bow side. There is an aerated livewell and vertical rod holder at console. A Lowrance HOOK-3x fishfinder can be opted for along with a trolling motor. Engine options vary from 9.9hp to 40hp. It is available starting from $11,995. Its great color options, features and 10-year warranty make it a great value for money boat. An electric variant of the same model is also available for $13,995.

Lowe Ultra 162 Fish & Cruise

The Ultra 162 manufactured by Lowe is one of the most easy-handling and functional small pontoon fishing boat. It allows up to eight people to indulge in fishing and fun activities. It has two folding fishing seats in the bow along with special fishing helm and passenger chairs. An aerated livewell is present bow side with a 15-gallon capacity. Factory installed fishing equipment includes a Lowrance Hook 3X Fishfinder, four bow rod holders, and a trolling motor. Engine options range from 9.9hp to 50hp. The boat retails from $14,200.

Sun Chaser Classic Fish 816 Fish

One of the most versatile and small pontoon fishing boat is the Classic Fish 816 from the house of Sun Chaser. It accommodates six persons for the fishing expedition and has two dedicated seats for fishing in the bow area. There is a fishing station at the back that has a livewell and fishing rod holders. The boat can accommodate a cooler table that allows you to relax and chill while you wait for your catch making it perfect for fishing.

Small Pontoon Boat

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It is not necessary to buy an expensive pontoon boat for an amazing pontooning experience. Small pontoon boats too come packed with quite a lot of features and are epitomes of luxury while still being economical. These are easy to carry, effortless to control over the waters, fuel efficient and convenient to tow and store. For a family or a small gathering, they are the perfect water vessels for some holiday fun.

Some of the best small pontoon boats that are worth checking out are listed here.

Bennington SX Series

Bennington SX series is a great value for money boat with the right mix of functionality and utility. It is made in lengths from 16 to 25 foot, the lower ones of which are ideal for people looking for a small pontoon boat. The 16 and 18 foot models can accommodate half a dozen people easily. The quality of upholstery is great and plenty of furniture addons are available including an electric bimmi and a ski tow bar. There are multiple exterior and interior finishing options provided along with a Kicker sound system among other upgrades. For the 16 and 18 foot models, gas engines range from 9.9hp to 60hp and electric ones from 2 to 8 hp. The prices for SX series start from $18,000 for 16-foot and $20,000 for 18-foot lengths.

Berkshire CTS Series

The 17-foot models of the Berkshire CTS Series are one of the best when it comes to small pontoon boats. These are rich in features and come backed by the quality construction expertise of Berkshire. It can seat eight to nine people easily, making it perfect for a small group. It has multiple package options to suit different tastes for an elite appearance and more fuel capacity. A 10’ bimmi is standard and an optional transom upgrade of 25” tubes can be included. It has decent cruising speed with the 60hp engine.

Cypress Cay Seabreeze 191

The Cypress Cay Seabreeze 191 is a small pontoon boat that can accommodate up to eight persons. Despite its size, this boat has great power and maximum features. A 12 foot bimmi upgrade along with changing room curtains, separate main and rear flooring options and a ski tow bar can be opted for. Outboard engines are available ranging from 9.9hp to 60hp along with an electric motor. Prices for this boat’s packages start from $14,000.

SUN TRACKER PARTY BARGE 18 DLX

Just because a boat is small, it doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. The Party Barge 18 DLX boat from Sun Tracker is both. This small pontoon boat is the ideal companion for having a great time with family and friends on the water. It can accommodate nine people on its comfortable couches. It has an aft-side swim platform stretching across the width of boat and plenty of storage space. The boat is equipped with a Bluetooth stereo and even a barbeque grill may be opted for. It has 24” pontoons and motors across 9.9hp to 75hp are available. Above all, it is backed by a 10-year warranty from Sun Tracker. The boat retails from $15,995.

Lowe Ultra 160 Cruise

Lowe’s Ultra 160 Cruise despite being a small pontoon boat is laden with features, durable and roomy. It allows eight people to go on a cruise and explore new waterbodies. A 9’ bimmi shields the passengers from the overhead sun. A ski tow is optional for those seeking adventure on water. Engine options have varying output between 9.9 to 50 hp. With a base price of $14,200, it is a great buy.

Pontoon Boat for Fishing

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Pontoon boats are not just meant for cruises and parties. Their design can also be adapted to enable activities such as fishing. Pontoon Boats for fishing come with a variety of equipment pre-fitted that can make the fishing expeditions much more exhilarating and fruitful. These include fishfinders, fishing stations, chairs made for fishing and livewells. There are quite a few boats around from multiple brands that boast of these features.

Premier Castaway

The best pontoon boat for fishing from the house of Premier is their Castaway. The platoon boat has four compartments which are well equipped with fishing equipment to facilitate a comprehensive fishing experience. There are two livewells, one attached to the fish station situated at the stern end of the boat, and another at helm. The platoon is also equipped with a fishfinder manufactured by Lowrance. The platoon boat has 25” tubes and an engine capable of delivering 115 horsepower. The Castaway has options of two and three tubes and 30” and 36” PTX packages. The three tube and both PTX packages deliver 175hp.

Bennington S21 Fishing Pontoon Boat

S21 fishing boat manufactured by Bennington features 25” tubes with a deck capacity of 10 people as standard with a maximum performance of 115hp. Various additions are available for this pontoon boat for fishing including a rod holder that can cradle four poles and a L-shaped live well placed at aft side. User can choose between Striker 4 fish graph and Simrad GPD 05. Additional packages include an express performance package that allows 11 people and a Sports Performance System package that accommodates 12 and delivers 175hp for the performance enthusiasts. Its price starts around $24000.

Avalon’s Eagle Fish

For people looking for small to medium sized pontoon boats for fishing, the Eagle Fish from Avalon are a perfect fit. The models are available as 14-foot and 16-foot with two fishing chairs and 18-foot with four fishing chairs. A fishing center at aft is available that includes a livewell and rod holders in QF and RF models. Gar. Compact fishfinder is also available as an add-on. They can accommodate from 5 to 7 people and have engine options with 50 to 75hp. It is economical with price range of $11000 to $18000.

Berkshire STS Fishing Series

The STS series of platoon boats for fishing from Berkshire blend luxury and utility. They have 25” tubes. Equipment includes a fishing center at the aft end of the boat, a livewell cooler, option between analogue gauge Murphy graph with push button feature and a fish/depth graph from Humminbird and vertical fishing rod holders. These are available as a 21-foot model with 115 to 300hp and 23 and 25-foot models with power of 150 to 350hp and can accommodate 9 to 13 persons. Performance packages are available for the enthusiasts.

Capress Cay Cabana Series

Capress Cay Cabana fishing boats are available as 22 and 24 foot models with all requisite features for a fishing expedition including a trolling motor outlet and rod holder. Fishing gadgetry includes a Hook 3X fishfinder, Hook 4 fishfinder with GPS, a 5” dash mounted SIMRAD GO 5 chartplotter with sonar and downscan and an aerated livewell. The bundles vary from a 115hp sport package to a 400hp performance package. Depending on the package and the addons chosen, the Cabana pontoon boat for fishing can cost anywhere between $28000 to $ 60000.

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