Today I’ve got something really awesome to share…
A Complete Guide To Buying (& Utilizing) An Inflatable Fishing Boat
Because the versatility, access, and cost have finally allowed me to fish ANYWERE!
I’m talking remote awe-inspiringly ponds and lakes.
All without the headaches of a Jon boat!
Today I’m going to deep dive into everything about inflatable fishing boats…
TOPICS IN THIS GUIDE… ↓(click to jump)
- Best Inflatable Fishing Boats
- What Is An Inflatable Fishing Boat?
- 5 Great Reasons To Get One
- Best Inflatable Fishing Boat Features
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Best Inflatable Fishing Boats (By Type)
The market for inflatable fishing boats is growing fast.
This is great, but all those options come with much confusion.
There seem to be as many inflatable fishing boat options as there are fishermen.
But the right inflatable fishing boat for you depends on several factors:
- The type of water (pond, lake, river, ocean)
- The fishing technique (bobber, casting, fly)
- Group size (single, family)
- Kind of fish (catfish, bluegill, bass)
Float Tube Fishing Boat
A float tube is a great option when fishing solo in flat water or gentle streams.
Float tube models range from a covered inner tube to a more modern U-shaped tube.
This design offers a wide range of seat options, rod and gear storage, and safety features.
In this inflatable fishing boat, you sit up to your waist in the water in a seat suspended inside the tubes.
Since much of your body is in the water the whole time, a float tube is best for warm waters.
However, cooler water fishing is possible if you wear waders with the float tube.
Float tubes are among the lightest and most portable fishing inflatables.
Making them popular among fishermen in backcountry lakes.
One drawback of the float tube -you propel the boat by kicking your feet.
This leaves you with limited maneuverability.
Any current can make things a real challenge, and expect slow progress in calm waters.
However, they can work well as an inflatable fly fishing boat if you tend to frequent calm waters.
This is one of the best float tube fishing boats for backpacking into the remote wilderness!
Why? First off, it has a 350-pound max capacity but only weighs 14 lbs.
That means it's ideal for taking along to the remote backwaters. It even comes with adjustable carrying straps.
This inflatable tube rig also has a thick padded seat and adjustable backrest. Keeping you comfortable and your main body up out of the water.
There are also 2 fishing rod holders and 2 large cargo pockets.
Plus, it's tough as hell.
Because it has an Abrasion-resistant PVC bottom and hydrodynamic hull shape.
Finally, there's a large mesh stripping apron. So you can work on your line and lure with ease.
It includes an integrated fish ruler as well.
↓ Cumberland Float Tube And Fins Review
The Goplus is a super versatile inflatable float tube that can be used for fishing, lounging, or cruising on the water.
It's made from heavy-duty PVC and features a comfortable backrest, sturdy footrest, and a mesh bottom that allows water to pass through, keeping you cool and comfy all day long.
There are two handy storage pockets for all your fishing gear or drinks, a built-in cup holder to keep your beverage of choice close at hand, and a handy carry handle that makes it easy to transport from your car to the water.
And the best part? The Goplus is incredibly easy to inflate and deflate, meaning you can be up and running in no time.
So whether you're a seasoned angler looking for a new way to catch some fish or just someone who loves relaxing on the water, the Goplus Inflatable Float Tube is worth checking out.
↓ Float Tube Fishing – Go Plus Float Tube Review
Stand-Up Paddleboard Fishing Boat
Yes, you can fish from a stand-up paddleboard (SUP).
But you must have an exceptional balance to pull off the feat.
For those gifted individuals, the SUP provides lightweight, portable fishing.
Nearly as much as a float tube.
But these options provide some real advantages over a float tube.
It gives you a higher viewpoint, better propulsion, and less contact with the water (if you don’t fall off)!
Some SUPs come with rod holders, while others rely on accessory rod holders.
It’s popular to have a small waterproof deck bag on the nose of the board for gear, keys, etc.
SUPs are great for flat water.
But, some designs are made for rivers, with shorter, more maneuverable shapes.
The Aqua Marina Inflatable SUP is made with anglers in mind.
This rig is more stable than your regular stand-up paddleboard because it has 2 independent side chambers.
It has built-in rod holders and elastic bungee cords to secure your tackle box.
Finally, you also get a fishing cooler with this SUP.
The cooler is the perfect size and height for this paddleboard and also has a built-in seat.
↓ SUP Fishing: Aqua Marina Review & Field Test
This decked-out fishing paddleboard is the top of the line in inflatable SUPs for fishermen.
Once inflated, this rig is 12'6" long, 40" wide, and 6" thick.
Making it extremely buoyant and stable.
The deck size provides a huge surface area to get your rod ready and to fight aggressive fish.
It's a lightweight fishing machine you can roll up and fit into a backpack!
But you can also add your own small trolling motor, including a swivel seat.
↓ Sea Eagle Fish SUP – Inflatable Fishing SUP Review
Sit On Top Kayak Fishing Boat
One of the best kayak styles for fishing is a sit-on-top.
This type of inflatable fishing boat has the distinct advantage of being able to recover if you tip over.
That’s because the boat has no real “interior.”
Just flip a sit-on-top upright and climb back inside without bailing water.
For those new to kayaking, this makes it far easier to feel confident since you can self-rescue if something happens on the water.
They’re also more maneuverable than float tubes or SUPs, especially in river waters.
But they’re not designed for intense rapids.
The main drawback being you’re in constant, direct contact with water.
So cold water fishing can be uncomfortable without a wetsuit.
But, for warm water and gentle river fishing, you won’t do much better than a sit-on-top kayak!
This grab-and-go kayak only takes 5 minutes to set up.
It measures 8 feet 7 inches in length and 3 feet wide. Allowing it to hold up to 400 lbs.
Due to its integrated"Airtight System" design, don't worry about this rig leaking.
Finally, it comes with dual-tracking fins for easier maneuverability!
↓ Sevylor K1 QuickPak Backpack Kayak Review
Sit Inside Kayak Fishing Boat
If your fishing trends more towards rivers and some rapids, a sit-inside kayak is a great solution.
Some sit-inside boats are designed with a self-bailing floor.
These can shed water after capsizing.
This makes it easier to get back inside and under control after capsizing.
They’re usually more stable than other kayaks since the paddler sits lower in the boat.
It also has higher sides and more floatation for whitewater making them great as inflatable fly fishing boats as well.
This inflatable kayak is set up for fishing on just about any water - calm or rough.
This 2-person inflatable kayak can be ready in minutes. And blows up to 9 feet 8 inches in length and nearly 3 feet in width.
This kayak is made with 18 gauge rip-resistant 1000D PVC.
Making it highly resistant to tearing due to fishing hooks or sharp obstacles.
Plus, it includes the following accessories:
- 2 adjustable seats
- 6-rod holders (2 verticles / 4 trolling)
- 2 sets of double-sided oars
- a double-action pump with a carry bag
Finally, with 3 separate removable air chambers, you can quickly make adjustments or repairs.
↓ Elkton Outdoors Inflatable Kayak Two-Man Review
This thing is a real catch.
It's made from heavy-duty PVC material that can withstand some serious abuse out on the water.
And with multiple air chambers, it's a safe bet that you won't sink to the depths of Davy Jones' locker if you happen to spring a leak.
It also has everything an angler could want, including paddle holders, adjustable rod holders, and even a trolling motor fitting if you're feeling lazy.
Plus, with a weight capacity of up to 470 pounds, you and your fishing buddy can pack all the gear you need for a full day on the water.
↓ Testing Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Inflatable Fishing Kayak
Inflatable Fishing Pontoon Boats
This is a hybrid between a catamaran and a whitewater raft.
A pontoon is a GREAT option for fishing while on your next whitewater adventure!
The wide stance of the cataraft provides a considerable amount of stability.
And the rowing frame allows for exceptional maneuverability and lots of gear storage.
Often enough storage for overnight camping gear.
Many come with accessory bags and even coolers and dry boxes!
Cataracts are bulky. They also cost more than other inflatable fishing boats.
But for the right person, the benefits far outweigh these concerns.
A cataract sits above the water.
This makes it ideal for all water temps and most whitewater conditions.
They’re also far more comfortable for the rower than other inflatables since they include a well-supported seat and footrests for leverage.
Some inflatable fishing pontoon boats even come with an anchor!
That way, you can position yourself for excellent fishing, even in a strong current.
This impressive rig has a seat mount and adjustable footrest to accommodate everyone, short or tall.
It has a versatile rod holder that can be mounted in six different positions.
This inflatable fishing pontoon rig is tough due to its powder-coated steel tube frame.
You also get two - 7-foot aluminum oars to help you navigate choppy rapids.
With a smart anchor system with pulley controls, you can hold your position even in fast currents.
Finally, store all your gear and supplies in the rear storage platform, 2 insulated drink holders, and 20 pockets!
↓ Colorado Pontoon Boat Review & Test
This is one hell of an inflatable fishing pontoon boat with an aluminum desk for standing; ideal for the bass fisherman out there.
This impressive rig features a large platform. Big enough for two anglers yet still packs up easily and can fit into a car.
So no trailer is needed!
It has four individual chambers (including the two extra reinforced chambers) to provide exceptional buoyancy.
This inflatable fishing pontoon is stable enough to allow two anglers to stand on the same side; it won't capsize.
This fishing boat can be modified as much as you desire with full-size aluminum floorboards and stainless steel guard bars.
It comes with a 360-degree swivel seat. One that offers plenty of back support and generous cushions.
Finally, you can (and should) add a motor to this inflatable fishing pontoon boat. It has an engine capacity of up to 6 hp and a 79 pounds maximum weight.
↓ Fishing With Inflatable Pontoon Fishing Boat
Raft Fishing Boat
Finding a small inflatable that fits everyone is difficult if you’re fishing with more than one person.
You have to get a bit larger at this point, and the choice often leads to rafts.
Unfortunately, rafts tend to be the most variable in construction and durability.
From cheap inflatable fishing boats (in the sub-$100 range) to whitewater rafts costing over $5000.
You can find different rafts at nearly any price point.
Many lower-price rafts may suit your needs on a calm lake for a few summer days.
If you spend weeks every year on rougher waters, you’ll find durability issues on the lower end of the spectrum.
In this case, you’ll want to upgrade to a whitewater raft with a rowing frame.
You can even get a fishing platform frame for many of the specialty whitewater rafts.
These specialty rafts provide balance and a stable platform for casting and fighting.
These higher-end rafts also come at a weight cost.
One of the most important reasons for getting an inflatable fishing boat in the first place.
But they can still make sense for the right person; consider that before you get one.
This boat can fit up to 4, making it perfect for taking the family fishing out on a lake.
Overall it measures 11 feet by 4 feet and can hold up to 814 pounds!
It's made with super-tough 30-gauge PVC vinyl.
Making its construction resists abrasion and impacts.
Includes 2 air chambers for safety and 2 fishing rod holders at the rear.
It comes with welded oarlocks, oar holders, and a set of oars.
Or mount a small motor to the back of this boat instead.
Between the low price of this raft and the ability to customize it - it's an awesome entry rig.
↓ The Intex Seahawk 4 – Good or Bad?
First off, this bad boy is built tough.
It's made with heavy-duty vinyl and has multiple air chambers for added safety. So if you happen to puncture one chamber, you won't sink like a rock.
It has built-in rod holders to keep your fishing poles secure and within reach.
There's also a nifty inflatable seat cushion, which will keep your keister comfy while you reel in that big catch.
The AIRHEAD Angler Bay Inflatable Boat also comes with a grab handle and sturdy D-rings, which make it easy to transport and anchor.
And, when you're ready to pack it up, this boat deflates quickly and folds up nice and compact.
↓ Angler Bay Inflatable Boat With Trolling Motor
Dinghy
Finally, there are inflatable dinghies if you need extreme power propulsion.
This is an excellent option for larger lakes and coastal waters.
These inflatables are designed to hold a small to medium outboard motor on a rigid transom.
Many also include a reinforced floor, solid thwarts, and seats.
Plus, some have full oarlocks for rowing in close quarters or if you run out of gas.
Dinghies keep the occupants relatively dry – far more so than most inflatables.
This alone makes them the best bet for cold, coastal ocean waters.
Many designs also feature several grip points and rope handles,
These help swimmers get back into the boat in an emergency.
Inflatable dinghy designs rarely seem to have fishing-specific features.
However, most support accessory rod holders and other add-ons.
Due to their agility in harbors, inflatable dinghies are the favorite tenders for sailboats.
They can land and launch from all but the steepest beaches, which can be helpful in an emergency.
The Newport Dana Dinghy is made with US Coast Guard-rated 3x layer .9mm/1100D UV Coated PVC and glued with advanced German-engineered adhesives.
It comes with the following:
- sturdy carrying handles
- 3 stainless steel bow D-rings
- self-bailing drain plug
- Marine plywood transom mount
- Easy-Reach Grab Rope
This boat can hold up to a 10HP engine and speeds over 20 mph (conditions depending).
↓ Fishing From Inflatable Dinghy
What Is An Inflatable Fishing Boat?
An inflatable fishing boat is fairly simple but comes in many shapes, forms, and sizes.
Some are glorified innertubes. Others have a nice set of oars.
While some can support a small outboard motor.
For example, there are:
- Float Tubes
- Stand-Up Paddle Boards
- Sit On Top Kayaks
- Sit Inside Kayaks
- Small Pontoon Boats
- Rafts
- Dinghys
These are all inflatable boats, but as you can tell, they are very different in design.
As long as it is a boat that you fill up with air – it’s considered inflatable (no matter the design).
However, for it to be an inflatable fishing boat, it must also have design features with fishermen in mind.
The truth is, you can fish in anything from an old inner tube to a fully rigged whitewater raft.
So that’s what an inflatable fishing boat is – an inflatable boat made for fishing.
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5 Reasons To Get An Inflatable Fishing Boat
When I was a kid, our fishing options were limited.
We could fish from the bank or drag our old aluminum Jon boat from the barn out to the pond.
And if our aspirations took us farther than the farm pond, we had to get help.
It took at least two strong adults to lift the boat to the top of my parent’s minivan and strap it down for the ride.
Once we arrived, it was time to wrestle the boat out to the water.
By the time we finished loading and launching, we’d made enough noise to scare all the fish in the lake.
Every time, I thought,
“There must be a better way!”
The past few summers, I’ve been doing my fishing from inflatable fishing boats.
1. Lightweight & Portable
The most obvious reason is the lightweight and portable construction.
No more struggling to get a small aluminum fishing boat out of the garage.
Imagine carrying a package the size of a large duffle bag to the next fishing hole.
STOP wrestling a Jon boat on top of the car.
Just toss that duffle bag into the trunk with your survival tent and other weekend camping gear; easy!
And if you’re into survival and preparedness, you can put your inflatable boat in your bug-out vehicle.
No separate trailer is necessary.
2. Skip The Busy Boat Ramp
Speaking of traveling, they make driving far easier and keep your boat safer during travel.
SKIP the busy parking at a boat ramp.
No more waiting for your turn to get down to the water.
Instead, go straight to the beach with your pump and get started!
Never waste an hour (or more) in the parking lot again; get fishing within minutes of arrival.
3. Gain Your Driveway / Garage Space Back
A conventional fishing boat takes up a lot of storage space between fishing trips.
Inflatable fishing boats can pack down to a size that fits under the bed, in a spare closet, or on a shelf in the garage.
This means you can stop filling your driveway, garage, or even a portable garage with a boat and trailer.
Even apartment dwellers can have a fishing boat at ready for a weekend trip to the lake!
4. They Don’t Scare The Fish Away
Lastly, there’s one benefit a lot of people overlook.
Inflatable fishing boats are QUIET!
If you drop something in the bottom of an aluminum boat, every fish in the lake will hear that bang.
Some fish easily startle.
Any unexpected noise can cause them to stop biting and seek calmer, quieter areas.
But, if you drop something in an inflatable fishing boat, it quietly bounces.
The same goes for any rocks or logs you happen to bump into – no loud bang, just a gentle bounce.
5. Very Affordable (especially for a fishing boat)
Lastly, most inflatables are much less expensive than conventional fishing boats.
If you’re getting into boat fishing, it’s hard to justify the cost of a $15,000 bass boat.
But there are inflatable options for nearly every budget.
Want a free camping essentials checklist?
Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.
Best Inflatable Fishing Boat Features
There are some specific features common to fishing inflatables.
Understanding these features will help you narrow down your choices.
On-Board Storage
Every regular fisherman knows fishing takes knowledge, patience, and proper gear.
Sure, you can get away with a single rod, line, hook, and worm. But you increase your chances of success with more options.
Local bait shops understand this.
That’s why they offer thousands of different fishing options:
- Rods (various lengths and rod strength)
- Line (different test weights, materials)
- Bait/Hooks (catfish bait, live bait, artificial bait)
- Tools (plyers, live wells, etc.)
Even the fly-fishing purists can get loaded down with gear.
They fill all their vest pockets with flies, line clippers, and other odds and ends.
Managing all this gear in a boat can be a challenge.
So the best fishing inflatables have storage built into the boat.
At the very least, rod holders keep your expensive rods and reels clear of the oars.
And they also allow you to have a troll line out as you paddle.
Extra zipper compartments are great for small items.
While a roll-top drybag or watertight box can keep your keys, wallet, and camera safe.
You’ll also want to have room for an emergency survival kit and key survival gear.
Especially if you plan to fish alone in the remote wilderness.
Stability
Fighting an active fish is far easier if you can stand up and move around a bit.
For this reason, better inflatables are designed for stability.
This often means a broader beam to prevent a sideways roll.
This stability allows you to shift your weight from one edge to another without capsizing.
It can also mean the boat paddles slightly slower than a narrower profile boat.
But it’s a price most fishermen gladly pay to avoid falling into the drink while fighting their catch.
Maneuverability
Maneuvering the boat quickly can help in many situations when you’re out on the water.
Generally, a shorter-length boat will turn more rapidly and with less effort.
This allows you to slip around trees and work your way through twisting channels in the weeds in calm lakes.
Or it can help you dodge rocks and strainers if you choose to fish in whitewater rivers.
Without a doubt, shorter boats can’t reach the same speeds as longer boats.
But being able to steer clear of obstacles – saves you from an unexpected swim!
Durability
The vinyl used in discount stores for inflatable boats is incredibly thin.
The material struggles to stand up to fishing excursions.
Hooks, fish spines, sharp rocks, and even the gravel on a launchpad can spell disaster for those weak materials.
The best fishing inflatables are made of heavy-duty materials.
They are often reinforced with fabric to withstand the abuse of fishing.
Yet, even so, compared to an aluminum boat, you must treat an inflatable boat with a bit more caution.
So avoid dropping, dragging, slamming, beating, or kicking your inflatable like you can a Jon boat.
And while they are not as indestructible as aluminum boats, they will last with a bit of care.
Also, keep a patch kit handy, just in case, especially if your favorite fishing hole happens to have lots of sharp rocks or submerged logs.
These obstacles can poke a hole at an inopportune time.
Final Thoughts
Inflatable fishing boats have made considerable advances in the past few years.
They’re moving from a novelty fishing option to an excellent tool for all serious fishermen.
Their lower cost, lightweight design, and compact storage make them attractive.
Just make sure you have a good pump!
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