Ultimate Fishing Boat Buyer's Guide

There are generally two types of fishing boat buyers: those who know exactly what they want and those who are new to the fishing boat market and feel overwhelmed by the choices available. This guide is meant to assist those in the latter category who may be unsure of how to navigate the fishing boat market.

Types of Fishing Boats

Fishing boats range from the small Jon boats used in ponds and rivers to big fishing boats designed to handle the larger bodies of water, such as Lake Winnebago or Lake Michigan. The first question you need to ask yourself is, where are you most likely going to fish with your boat? 

Aluminum Fishing Boats

Aluminum fishing boats are small and lightweight, perfect for fishing in ponds, lakes, and rivers. They tend to be more affordable and easier to tow on a trailer compared to other options. These boats come in several designs, such as side console, center console, fish & ski, tiller steer, and multi-species dual consoles. The main benefits of aluminum boats include their lighter weight, which simplifies towing and launching, lower maintenance needs, and overall cost-effectiveness. They also offer various seating capacities, and some models are equipped with ski tow bars, making them great for families looking to enjoy activities like tubing. At Kettle Marine, we offer a selection of aluminum fishing boats ranging from 14 to 19 feet in length. We've got great options from some of the top manufacturers, such as Lund boats and Alumacraft boats.

Bass & Musky Boats

Bass and musky boats are popular choices for serious anglers targeting freshwater species. These boats are specifically designed with competitive fishing in mind and feature specialized designs and capabilities. They are often equipped with powerful motors that allow anglers to reach their fishing spots quickly, which is crucial during competitive tournaments. Typically, these boats sit lower in the water and have limited seating options, providing more floor space for standing and casting. For this reason, bass and musky boats may not be ideal for families who need additional seating capacity. 

Jon Boats

Jon boats are sort of a catch-all name used to describe small, open, simple flat-bottom boats. Most Jon boats are made from aluminum, although there are some plastic or even wooden Jon boats. If something small and simple is all you need, these boats are an extremely affordable option. 

Fiberglass Fishing Boats

Fiberglass fishing boats are constructed from molded fiberglass reinforced with resin. These boats are shaped in a mold, allowing for more intricate hull designs. One of the primary advantages of fiberglass boats is their ride quality. The heavier hull contributes to a smoother ride, which is particularly valuable in the rougher waters of places like Lake Winnebago or Lake Michigan. Fiberglass boats glide through the waves more effectively, resulting in less "slap" in choppy conditions. These boats typically feature deeper V-hull designs, providing better performance and handling at higher speeds. They also operate quietly on the water due to reduced hull vibration. Additionally, fiberglass boats have cleaner, more polished appearance with a glossy finish. Similar to aluminum boats, there is a wide range of models available in various sizes and seating capacities. However, one of the drawbacks of fiberglass boats is that they require larger horsepower motors and bigger trailers, which can make them more expensive options overall. Nonetheless, their superior performance and larger size often make them ideal for versatile activities like fishing and skiing. 

Pontoon Fishing Boats

Several pontoon boats are specifically designed for fishing. Fishing pontoon boats are a great option for casual anglers who also desire room to spread out and relax. They offer stable casting platforms and plenty of onboard storage for tackle and rods. Many senior boaters who may have had fishing boats in the past are now opting for fishing pontoons because they are often easier for seniors to enter and exit the boat. Premier pontoons offers an innovative, award-winning fishing pontoon design called the Sunsation Angler. It comes in a variety of floor plans and includes such features as rear open water panels and a Troll & Stow trolling motor hideaway. Additionally, we also carry Tahoe pontoons, which offer fishing models as well.

If you're uncertain about which model is the best fit for you, our knowledgeable sales associates at Kettle Marine are here to assist you in exploring your options. We provide a unique, stress-free, and no-pressure approach to buying a boat. Our goal is to educate you about all the available choices, ensuring you have an exceptional customer service experience while allowing you to decide what works best for you.