How to Choose the Right Stillwater Boat

Fishing stillwaters offers unique opportunities for targeting trout, bass, pike, and other species, but choosing the right boat can make or break your experience. The variety of options can be overwhelming, so let’s break it down to help you select a boat that fits your needs, budget, and style of fishing to master stillwater fishing like a pro. 

We always like to make our blogs easy and to read and digest, so here is a 5 step process that will help you get your answer faster. 

 1. Define Your Fishing Style

The first step is understanding how you’ll use your boat. Are you casting from a stationary position? Drifting with the wind? Or trolling flies across large lakes? Each style benefits from different boat features:

• Stationary Casting: Look for boats with excellent stability like a pontoon or a drift boat, bass boat or tin boat and (my) choice is a Jon boat,
• Drifting: A float tube, inflatable pontoon or fishing kayak can be ideal for letting the wind do the work.
• Trolling: Larger boats with trolling motor capabilities are more efficient for covering water, like lake boats usually 14ft and up. 

 2. Common Types of Stillwater Boats

Here’s a rundown of the most popular options and their pros and cons:

• Float Tubes
• Pros: Lightweight, portable, affordable, great for hidden lakes 
• Cons: Limited mobility; better for smaller lakes,
• Pontoon Boats
• Pros: More stable than float tubes; good for windy conditions; some models include oars.
• Cons: Bulky; slower to set up, heavy and hard to make pack in the bush 
• Kayaks
• Pros: Versatile, easy to maneuver, and excellent for covering water.
• Cons: Limited standing room for casting; challenging in high winds, potently heavy for some people. 
• Drift Boats
• Pros: Highly stable; spacious for gear; excellent for larger waters.
• Cons: Expensive and requires a trailer for transport.
• Jon Boats or Small Skiffs
• Pros: Great for trolling; compatible with motors; handles multiple anglers, super stable. 
• Cons: Loud with waves, can get pushed around from wind easily 
• Lake Boats 

           ◦ Pros: Great for trolling, getting to new water fast, comfortable.

• Cons: very expensive, need a trailer, maintenance  requirements 

 3. Key Features to Consider

When shopping for a stillwater boat, pay attention to these features:

• Portability: Consider how you’ll transport and launch the boat. Some require a trailer; others can fit in the back of a truck.
• Stability: If you prefer standing while casting, stability is a top priority.
• Comfort: For long days on the water, padded seats and adjustable features can make a big difference.
• Storage Space: Ensure there’s room for tackle, fly boxes, and other gear.
• Propulsion Options: Decide if you’ll rely on oars, paddles, or a trolling motor.

 4. Match Your Boat to the Waters You Fish

The size and type of water you fish will influence your choice:

• Small Lakes and Ponds: Float tubes or kayaks are easy to launch and perfect for smaller, quiet waters.
• Medium-Sized Lakes: Pontoon boats or motorized kayaks provide better coverage without sacrificing portability.
• Large Lakes: Drift boats or Jon boats with motors are better suited for handling wind and distance.

 5. Test Before You Buy

Whenever possible, test the boat before committing. Many shops or outfitters offer demo days or rentals, so you can try different models and find the perfect fit for your needs. Ask other anglers to join them fishing in their boats prior to buying keep notes of what you like and don't. 

 Final Thoughts

Your choice of stillwater boat can elevate your fishing game, but it’s all about finding the right balance between functionality, comfort, and budget. Think about where your going to fish most often, and how you like to fish, and what features matter most to you. With the right boat, you’ll open up a world of stillwater fishing possibilities!