Many fishermen are thinking about buying a boat. Someone tried fishing with a friend and appreciated such an important tool, someone wants to improve their comfort level, and someone wants to fulfill their dream. Whatever the reason for the desire, you need to prepare for such an important purchase - understand the key characteristics of the product, as well as the functionality of its parts.
Therefore, the editors of the “I Found It” website have prepared detailed instructions for you on how to choose the best boat for fishing or hunting that will not let you down in difficult times.
Why do you need a boat for fishing or hunting?
- Allows you to change your location to a more advantageous one. This is especially true in areas where the shore is heavily overgrown with reeds and it is difficult to approach the water.
- Expands your capabilities - you can fish not only in the coastal zone.
- You can get away from popular recreational, fishing or hunting areas. Fewer people, more catch.
- Boat trips in clear weather.
What to look for when choosing a boat?
Let us highlight the main criteria for choosing a good vehicle:
- design,
- material;
- color;
- equipment.
Now let’s take a closer look at what types of boats there are.
Design Features
The ability to control the boat using a motor, its presence or absence, divides the boats as follows.
Type
- Rowing. As the name suggests, this type of boat is propelled by oars. The design is simple: the sides are divided into compartments (cylinders), and between them there is an inflatable or non-inflatable bottom. The most popular shape is closed, oval.
- Motor rowing. Some rowing options can be equipped with a motor. For this purpose, a hinged transom is used, which is installed directly on the inflatable side. Often, products of this type come with a soft bottom and without a keel, so they use only low-power engines.
- Motor. The key difference between the latter type of models is that they have a built-in transom. Also, motor boats are easy to recognize by their shape - while rowing boats have an oval shape, due to the sides around the entire perimeter, then motor boats look like the Latin letter U. Since these boats usually sail in planing mode, manufacturers often equip them with a hard bottom. Most models are equipped with a keel.
Transom
This part of the structure is used to attach the motor to the boat. Always located at the rear of the stern. It can be suspended (for motor rowing) or stationary (for motor rowing). Suspended transoms are equipped with models with a closed hull shape, and stationary transoms, on the contrary, with a U-shape. Thus, in the second case, the transom replaces the tailgate.
Number of seats, capacity
Speaking about the number of seats for which the product is designed, we cannot help but clarify that, first of all, the capacity of the watercraft determines its carrying capacity - the maximum permissible load on the product, as well as its length and width.
Air compartments
The rule here is: the more, the better. The more air cylinders a boat has, the more stable it will behave if damaged or punctured on the water. The more time you will have to repair or move to a safe place. There are models on the market with different numbers of cylinders: from 1 to 5.
Bottom
The bottom of the boat can be inflatable or non-inflatable (tensioned).
The inflatable version is more stable and insulates well. Often, special reinforcing inserts provide additional strength to such a bottom.
Payol
Payol is a removable floor and comes in three types:
- Inflatable. The lightest, similar to a regular air mattress. It can be folded and unfolded. The only negative is that it can become deformed under heavy load.
- Rack and pinion. These are several pieces of plywood connected to each other. Easy to fold and unfold. Often used in small inflatable boats.
- Solid. The toughest. Suitable for medium and large watercraft.
Keel
A structural element of a watercraft that runs through the middle of its bottom, from the bow to the rear side. The keel can be rigid or inflatable.
The hard version is usually made of wood. Models with such a keel are more stable and controllable than punts.
Versions with an inflatable keel also have good performance characteristics. In addition, they are easier to transport.
Material
Boats for fishing and hunting are made of PVC, rubberized fabric, neoprene, hipalon, and a combination of the last two.
- PVC. The most popular material is polyvinyl chloride - lightweight, durable, UV-resistant, and tolerates short-term exposure to fuels and lubricants and salt water. There are two types: with and without a reinforcing base. Typically the reinforcing base is polyester or nylon. Boats without a reinforcing base are cheaper than those with it, but they are not as reliable and strong and last somewhat less.
- Rubberized fabric. Products made from this material are inexpensive, but do not last long and do not tolerate salt water well.
- Hypalon. Elastic, high temperature resistant material.
- Neoprene. This is a type of artificial rubber. It is characterized by strength, elasticity, and resistance to negative environmental influences.
Color
Depending on where and how you plan to use the boat - fishing or hunting - the color of the product you are looking for changes. If you need a watercraft to get as close as possible to your prey, then you can’t find anything better than khaki or camouflage. As an option, models of all sorts of calm green and sandy shades will do.
If your choice is fishing, then there are two options. For small bodies of water, as well as small rivers with calm currents, it is better to take white or silver boats.
- fish see bright objects worse;
- the boat heats up less.
For wide rivers or rivers with strong currents, as well as large bodies of water and seas, it is safer to take a bright boat, for example, yellow or orange. Such a visible craft will be easier for rescuers to find in the event of an emergency. A dark object will merge with water, and a light object may be confused with lambs.
Equipment
- Seat. They can be hard or inflatable. The hard version is a strip that is attached at the ends to the sides of the boat. The disadvantage of such seats is that some manufacturers make them from slippery material. Also, sitting for long periods on a hard surface may not be suitable for anglers with spinal problems. The inflatable version does not have these disadvantages; sitting on it is more comfortable and pleasant.
- An anchor eye is a ring-shaped fastening for an anchor rope. Often located in the bow of the boat.
- A lifeline is a tightly stretched rope, both ends of which are secured to the cylinders with clamps. It is a life-saving device. The sides of any inflatable boat have an impressively large diameter and it is quite difficult for a person in the water to grab and hold on to them. Plus they are slippery.
- Repair kit - a set for quickly repairing a puncture or hole; usually includes a tube of waterproof glue and several patches.
Main indicators of boats:
- Length;
- width;
- cylinder diameter;
- body shape;
- bottom type;
- presence of a keel;
- fabric density;
- number of seats;
- presence of transom;
- warranty period of service;
- number of hermetic compartments of the boat.
Technical characteristics of the boat Hunter 280 LT
From a wide range of all kinds of watercraft, we present to your attention the comfortable boat Hunter 280 LT. This boat is made of durable material - PVC, and even the most demanding fishermen and athletes will like it. This model is very comfortable and has all the necessary tools for successful fishing. At its low price, the boat includes the following things:
- Oars
- Pump
- Hard collapsible floor
- Seats
- Bow awning
- Hinged transom for motor
- Spinning rod holders
Errors in selection
- Size. It's better to take a boat that's a little bigger than it won't fit in. Never choose a product blindly. When going to the store to make a purchase, dress as if you were going fishing. Sit there in the model you like, try it on like this. If you prefer to fish with friends, then take them with you. Otherwise, after the purchase, a situation may arise when you can only sit in the boat by leaning on each other’s knees.
- Ignoring the place and time of operation. These two parameters also determine the type of boat, its design features, and color. There is no universal boat model that will be equally comfortable both on a small lake and at sea. Likewise, a model that is perfect for a hunter will get lost in the sea waves or reduce the fisherman’s catch. The thin, unreinforced material of a model not designed for low temperatures will quickly tear in cold weather and create a dangerous situation on the water.
The best manufacturers
Wanting to purchase a quality boat, every fisherman thinks about which company is better to give preference to. After all, the quality of materials, the level of assembly, and the lifespan of the product depend on the manufacturer.
The best Russian brands whose products comply with GOST standards are:
- Flinc;
- HUNTERBOAT;
- Aqua;
- Pilot;
- Phoenix;
- Teal.
Don't dismiss Chinese manufacturers either. Among them, worthy competitors are:
- Intex is an international corporation headquartered in the United States that produces boats, as well as many other swimming products, such as air mattresses, swimming pools, and balls.
- HDX - the advantage of models from this manufacturer is that they were developed taking into account the harsh Russian climate.
Rating of quality fishing boats for 2021
The site's editors offer an overview of the most popular and high-quality models with comprehensive descriptions, which will help you make the right choice. The list is divided into groups by type of product and includes options in different price categories: from budget to expensive.
Rowing
Pilot C-260
A domestically produced two-seater boat, made of durable reinforced green PVC. Resistant to the effects of fuels and lubricants, does not fade in the sun.
It is possible to purchase modifications with a collapsible floor or transom.
Average price: 9100 rub.
Pilot C-260
Advantages:
- inexpensive;
- manufacturer's warranty - 2 years;
- quality materials;
- high, wide sides, closed in shape;
- upturned nose;
- with repair kit;
- with a guard rope;
- with eye ring.
Flaws:
- soft bottom, on which it is difficult to maintain balance;
- no fishing rod holder;
- comfortable for one, but two people of average build can hardly fit.
Teal 200
A single khaki boat made of polyvinyl chloride is designed for one person (load capacity up to 150 kg). Small, maneuverable, safe. Suitable for winter fishing, a good option for hunters.
Average price: 5400 rub.
Teal 200
Advantages:
- price;
- light;
- convenient hermetic bag;
- wide sides of a closed shape;
- repair kit;
- pump pump;
- two cylinders;
- guard rope;
- first aid kit;
- detachable aluminum oars, oarlocks.
Flaws:
- soft, non-inflatable bottom;
- uncomfortable hard seat;
- no fishing rod holder.
Intex Seahawk-200
The small two-seater green model can carry up to 200 kg. Taking care of the safety of users, the manufacturer divided the design of the watercraft into three independent air chambers, and also equipped it with a guard rope. The boat is also equipped with a comfortable inflatable bottom.
Sold in two versions: basic and extended - with plastic oars and pump.
Average price: 3014 rub.
Intex Seahawk-200
Advantages:
- budget;
- light;
- high sides of a closed shape;
- stylish appearance;
- with fishing rod holder;
- with a guard rope;
- with repair kit;
- inflatable bottom;
- three cylinders.
Flaws:
- thin PVC;
- absolutely not suitable for autumn-winter or winter-spring fishing (water temperature less than 10º C) - the material hardens in cold water and breaks;
- keeps weight less than declared;
- narrow, roomy;
- no seating;
- flimsy oars;
- you cannot deflate the boat with a pump;
- You can’t leave it in the sun - it swells and bursts.
Motor rowing
Aqua 260
A good option for small and calm water is a model from the Russian manufacturer Aqua. The compact, green model is made of reinforced PVC. Maximum load capacity - 220 kg. Maximum motor power is 2.5 hp.
Sold in two versions: with and without transom.
Average price: 9100 rub.
Aqua 260
Advantages:
- price;
- light;
- maneuverable;
- quality materials;
- high-quality taped seams;
- complete with pump and repair tools;
- conveniently located oarlocks and oars;
- anchor eye;
- two air compartments, a guardrail along the sides;
- high sides of a closed shape.
Flaws:
- unstable, tension bottom;
- powerful pump;
- not enough space for two people;
- inconvenient bag for carrying and storage;
- hard, slippery seats;
- inconvenient to carry - there are no handles on the bow and stern.
Intex Challenger-3
The bright model made of unreinforced PVC consists of two cylinders: an internal, smaller one, and an external, larger one. Separately, you can fill the inflatable floor with air. The product is designed for three people and can withstand a maximum of 300 kg. Maximum motor power is 1.5 hp. Sold in two colors - yellow and blue. Since the low density of PVC makes the product unsuitable for traveling in deep water, and the bright colors will scare off all living creatures, the best options for use remain coastal fishing and short-distance rafting along a calm river.
Average price: 4249 rub.
Intex Challenger-3
Advantages:
- budget;
- roomy;
- comfortable inflatable seats;
- guardrail along the sides;
- wide sides of a closed shape;
- carrying handles;
- inflatable floor;
- equipment - oars, pump, repair tools.
Flaws:
- color not suitable for hunting;
- inconvenient pump to use - non-standard adapter;
- hard oarlocks.
Phoenix 280T
The compact two-seater model is well suited for fishing or walking on a small, quiet body of water. It is possible to install a motor up to 3.5 hp. and weighing no more than 17 kg.
Sold in two versions - with transom (luxury) and without.
Average price: 13960 rub.
Phoenix 280T
Advantages:
- light;
- maneuverable;
- available in two colors - gray, green;
- quality materials;
- comfortable, roomy bag;
- high sides of a closed shape;
- upturned nose;
- hard book bottom;
- strong oars.
Flaws:
- slippery banks.
Motor
HUNTERBOAT Hunter 320
A three-seater watercraft made of durable reinforced PVC with an independent inflatable bottom, which can be used as a mattress on a hike. Maximum motor power - 8 hp.
Average price: 22990 rub.
HUNTERBOAT Hunter 320
Advantages:
- price;
- accommodating;
- the bottom is easy to assemble;
- strong material;
- high U-shaped sides;
- repair kit;
- aluminum oars, oarlocks;
- frog pump.
Flaws:
- unstable;
- hard, slippery cans;
- heavy;
- no keel;
- does not hold air well, deflates quickly;
- Poorly processed seams, there are traces of glue.
Flinc 290
The two-seater green model has excellent driving characteristics and is suitable for both hunting and fishing.
Motor power - 5-9.8 hp.
Sold in several versions: with or without an inflatable keel, as well as with an inflatable or tension bottom.
Average price: 17990 rub.
Flinc 290
Advantages:
- price;
- durable;
- convenient folding plywood floor;
- three cylinders;
- guard rope;
- high-quality materials, good assembly;
- high U-shaped sides;
- keel;
- oars, rowlocks;
- foot pump;
- repair kit
Flaws:
- heavy, transom wheels are needed for transportation;
- no drain valve;
- hard seat;
- straight nose;
- According to customer reviews, the included Bravo pump often breaks down.
HDX 300
The four-seater model boasts a rigid, stable hull design, as well as durable reinforced PVC. It is an excellent option for fans of sports rafting. Maximum motor power - 10 hp. Available in different modifications: with or without an inflatable keel, as well as with an inflatable or tension bottom and a collapsible floor.
Average price: 41,900 rub.
HDX 300
Advantages:
- available in five colors - camouflage, green, blue, red, gray;
- high U-shaped sides;
- high-quality assembly,
- awning;
- repair kit;
- pump;
- guard rope;
- oars and rowlocks;
- anchor eye
Flaws:
- hard stationary seat;
- heavy.
Classification
According to the propulsion device used, PVC watercraft are divided into three categories
Rowing
They move through water using human muscle power and oars. Compact size and low price make these watercraft attractive to hunters, fishermen and tourists. Rowing boats are capable of sailing at wave heights of up to 0.5 m, as well as entering shallow water areas, which is why they are often used in the waters of small rivers and lakes.
Read: The best domestic manufacturer of echo sounders
Motor rowing
They move both with the help of oars and with the help of an outboard motor. The length of 3 – 4 meters and high-pressure air cylinders allow them to be used in the waters of large rivers and reservoirs.
Some models require registration with the state small craft inspectorate.
Motor
The main propulsion device of such a craft is a motor with a power of up to 50 hp. The length of the boat exceeds 4 meters, which allows it to be used in coastal waters and other large bodies of water.
All vessels of this type are subject to registration with the State Inspectorate for Transport.
How to properly store a boat?
To prevent the boat from deteriorating after a couple of seasons, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the rules for storing it. It is best if you have the opportunity to store and transport it in an inflated state. Then the material will not form unnecessary folds, break, or bend. Unnecessary bends in the material reduce elasticity and lead to tears.
After hunting or fishing, the watercraft should be washed in the following order:
- First, on the spot, wash off all visible dirt with water from the river or ordinary clean water if there is a populated area nearby. Be careful not to rub the boat with a hard cloth, as large grains of sand or debris can scratch the material.
- At home, wash it thoroughly with soapy water.
- After drying, it is recommended to treat the product with chemicals against rats and rodents. Even after a thorough washing, the smells of mud and fish remain, and rodents, attracted by the pleasant aromas for them, will ruin the craft.
- Some fishermen recommend sprinkling the watercraft with talcum powder for better preservation.
Also remember to pump up the boat every 2-3 weeks.
Inflatable boat for rafting
When choosing a boat for rafting, the simplest “inflatable boat” will be a completely suitable option, but there is a small nuance: ordinary fishing boats row rather slowly due to their wide shapes - they have the worst hydrodynamics of all existing inflatable boats. Practice shows that they are suitable for leisurely rafting, including those combined with fishing.
On a day, you can row on a fishing boat along a foothill or lowland river (with all the necessary stops) - 20, well, maximum - 25 km.
Not enough, isn't it? But if there is nowhere to rush and we have a spinning rod with a wobbler in our hands, this is quite enough. And for faster rafting on the river, it makes sense to use kayaks, which are one and a half times, or even two times faster than fishing boats (with a smart rower).
Motor boat as a means of rafting
A motor boat and true tourist rafting are incompatible concepts, especially on small and medium-sized rivers.
Imagine: you will fly along the route without even having time to admire the scenery, instead of birds singing, you will listen to the roar of the engine, smell its stench (at the same time you will be involved in environmental pollution), and most importantly, you will not get any physical activity. That is, there will be zero sense from such an “alloy”.
Also keep in mind this point - all the rowers you come across along the way will remember you with an unkind word, because the motorboat leaves behind a huge wave and brings chaos with its sudden appearance among the flotillas of normal raftsmen.
Therefore, it is better to leave a motorboat for banal travel - when you need to quickly cover a considerable distance along a large river, or go upstream.
And as a compromise option for the alloy, it is better to consider an electric motor. It is quiet, environmentally friendly and does not develop high speed. An excellent alternative to oars.
