Mini pontoon boats, the little brother of traditional pontoon boats, range from 6′ to 16′ long. They are a perfect option for fishing or for smaller journeys on lakes and ponds. Mini pontoon boats are a perfect option for those on a tight budget or those who temporarily need a pontoon boat for a short holiday season.
Since they are comparatively smaller in size, mini pontoon boats should not be used in open waters like their luxurious big brothers. Some mini pontoon boats are small enough that they don’t need an electric motor. Those are promoted as paddle boats or pedal pontoons.
The best mini pontoons are made with quality materials, are wide enough to provide stability, and allow a motor or oars to easily propel the boat around the pond or lake.
Manufacturers of Mini Pontoon Boats
There are numerous mini pontoon boat manufacturers to sort through, however this article significantly reduces the population and provides a focused overview of the best manufacturers. Some manufacturers specialize in building only mini pontoon boats and take pride in filling that niche for boaters. While others are traditional pontoon boat manufacturers, in the sense that they build “regular sized” pontoon boats, but they happen to have some mini pontoon boats in their line-up.
Specialized Mini Pontoon Boat Manufacturers
Pond King Mini Pontoon Boats
With an experience of over 29 years, Pond King is one of the most popular mini pontoon boat manufacturers.
From the one-seater Pond King Rebel to the five-seater Pond King Elite, their available offerings suit all needs and budgets. Other models include the two-person Patriot, Champ and Sport; the four-person Pro; and the five-seat capacity Ultra, Elite and Lil’ Cruiser. The Elite and Lil’ Cruiser and Elite are about 16′ and 6″ so they are approaching a “regular sized” pontoon boat.
In addition to the previously mentioned standard mini pontoon models, Pond King also provides a DIY 2-person mini pontoon. DIY pontoon boats are perfect for those who take pride in their craftsmanship or want to spend a few hours building memories with their kids/grandkids.
We also wanted to spotlight the two-person Patriot model because Pond King has an excellent annual program that gives away Patriot boats to veterans. This program is absolutely fantastic and it’s a wonderful way to support our wonderful veterans and bring honor and recognition to those who served our country.
No matter what type of mini pontoon you are looking for, Pond King has the one to fit your needs.
Laker Mini Pontoon Boats
Another mini pontoon boat manufacturer with more than 25 years of experience is Laker Pontoon Boats. Laker mini pontoons are built-to-order in the United States, shipped nationwide, and sold factory direct through DirectBoats.com.
Laker Pontoon Boats are made entirely from lightweight aluminum, and they utilize a spray on non-skid decking that easily tear like vinyl. They are constructed using 0.090″ thick gauge square pontoons! Making them easier to tow, launch, and fit in your garage than traditional round pontoons.
Laker offers 6′ (Model 610 and 612) and 7′ (Model 712 and 714) models along with a plethora of options allowing you to customize your mini pontoon boat to your exact needs. Available options include but are certainly not limited to ladders, gates, live wells, rod and cup holders, seats, tables, and Bimini tops.
With the purchase of an aftermarket bracket, the Laker can be propelled with a 55 lb. C2 Minn Kota trolling motor, a 6hp outboard engine, or up to a 18hp outboard.
Hotwood’s
Hotwood’s was established in 1986 in the heart of the USA; Nebraska and Texas to be exact. They specialize in a series of mini pontoon boats that are perfect for fishing. These fishing vessels are very stable, efficient, and capable of floating in very shallow water. Hotwood’s manufactures models such as: LIL Sport 510, Fish N Sport 510, Aluma Sport 612, Aluma Sport 615, and Aluma Sport 716. Aluminum and stainless steel are the sole materials used in the manufacturing of these mini boats.
Pond-Tini
Pond-Tini is another Nebraska based mini pontoon boat manufacturer that has been in business for more than 25 years. They specialize in built-to-order all aluminum mini pontoon boats. With their spray on bed liner decking, these mini pontoon boats are perfect for hunting, fishing, and recreation. After completing your “Build Your Boat” form, Pond-Tini will construct a high-quality mini pontoon boat ready for shipment anywhere in the lower 48.
They have a straightforward line-up of mini pontoon boats including the 10 Series (10′), 12 Series (12′), and 14 Series (14′). You can keep the models as simple as you want with only an open rail around the pontoon. Alternatively, you can add numerous upgrades including cladding, gates, pedestal seating, Bimini top, swim ladder, and a live well.
Traditional Mini Pontoon Boat Manufacturers
Here are a few major pontoon boat manufacturers who decided to shrink their “normal sized” pontoon boats into more manageable, smaller, and less expensive smaller versions of the boats. These guys come stacked with options just like their “bigger brothers”.
Qwest Pontoons by Apex Marine
Apex Marine is based in St. Louis, Michigan and they are well known for their line of Qwest Pontoons; E-Class, M-Class, and Angular Qwest. However, they also have a line of mini pontoon boats, the Gillgetter Series. These mini pontoon boats vary from 13′ to 16′ in length. They are loaded with options and features on par with their E-Class, M-Class, and Angular Qwest series.
The Gillgetter series from comes in different floor plans that can accommodate 4 to 7 people depending on the layout. The engine options have up to 30HP output. These mini pontoon boats can be fitted with special fishing seats, fish finders, live wells and rod holders. The Paddle Qwest series is another option that can seat 6 to 8 people. These boats are perfect for people who are looking for mini pontoon boats without compromising on the features.
Tahoe Pontoon Boats
Tahoe Pontoons is a Michigan based pontoon boat manufacturer who has been around since 1972. They are better known for their 27′ double decker “Funships” that are instantly recognizable on the lake. However, Tahoe decided to enter the arena of mini pontoon boats with their infinitely customizable Sport Cruise / Bow Fish / Rear Fish Series.
The boats range from 14′ to 18′ in length and are 7′ wide. They can seat 5 to 7 people and have engine options of 50HP to 60HP. These boats are the perfect blend of economy and style. They are a great fit for individuals seeking to buy one of the best mini pontoon boats.
Sunray Mini Pontoons
Fiesta Pontoon Boats is best known for their saltwater-friendly full-sized pontoons. However, they have a mini pontoon boat series called the “Sunray” Series. These guys range from 12′ to 18′ long and are as narrow at 7′ wide. They carry a simple and straight forward layout but are designed to last.
Just like their “main” line of Fiesta Pontoon Boats, the Sunray Series is geared toward saltwater adventures. They have models like the “Fish N Fun” that are geared towards fishermen. The Sundeck or “Swim N Fun” models are geared towards lake cruisers. These cool mini pontoon boats are not crazy fast but man they are cool!
Conclusion
In conclusion, mini pontoon boats are a fantastic option for those seeking the perfect balance of convenience, affordability, and fun on the water. Their compact size makes them easy to maneuver, transport, and store, while still offering the stability and comfort that pontoon boats are known for. Ideal for smaller groups, shallow waters, or solo adventures, mini pontoon boats provide a more intimate boating experience without sacrificing the enjoyment and versatility that come with larger models. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or just relaxing, a mini pontoon boat is a great choice for making the most of your time on the water.
