Saltwater fishing is an exciting endeavor! If it’s your preferred way to spend time on the water, the right boat is essential. Ideally, you’d choose a vessel with strong steel construction, sufficient fuel capacity, ample storage space, and a sunshade system.
The good news is there are many options that can check off all your boxes and let you make the most out of your time angling. To help you with your search, here are ten of the best saltwater fishing boats.
What are the Best Boats for Saltwater Fishing?
1. All-Purpose Fishing Boats
Hence their name, all-purpose fishing boats are versatile. You can use them for just about any purpose, such as fishing, watersports, and day cruising. Plus, they come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate just about every boater. You’re sure to find one that meets your budget and needs.
Explore All-Purpose Fishing Boats
2. Center Consoles
Center consoles have a large open deck by the stern (in the center), making them a solid pick for saltwater fishing. They’re also fast thanks to their high-performance engines, easy to maneuver, and loaded with storage space for your gear.
3. Dual Consoles
Dual consoles are exactly what they sound like: boats with two consoles that create an open deck space. One is for the captain, and the other one is for the passenger(s). Since many models are engineered for fishing, they also include gunwale rodholders, integrated fishboxes, livewells, and other fishing features.
4. Cuddy Cabins
Cuddy cabin boats feature a “cuddy,” or small cabin, near the bow of the boat. You can furnish one of these nimble vessels with rod holders, chairs, and other features to make it fishing-friendly. They’re also trailerable so that you can explore new areas for saltwater fishing without much hassle.
5. Bay Boats
Bay boats are ideal if you like to fish in shallow inshore waters but can handle being offshore, as long as conditions are calm. While they’re smaller and lighter than center console vessels, they have a similar design that allows for 360-degree water access. Plus, many of them feature casting platforms, bait prep stations, and storage for rods and other gear.
6. Deck Boats
Deck boats stand out for their large deck, which is great for both entertaining and saltwater fishing with a larger group of people. These vessels are a breeze to navigate and offer more than enough space for everyone’s fishing equipment and catch.
7. Fish-and-Ski Boats
Fish-and-ski boats are incredibly versatile, as you may use them for wakeboarding, jet skiing, and saltwater fishing. In many cases, you can add on a fish-and-ski package with special storage space for fishing rods, a live well, and a bow-mount electric trolling motor.
8. Flat Boats/Skiffs
Flat boats and skiffs are popular for casual saltwater fishing due to their flat bottoms, which can help you spot specific fish species. Small, open, and nimble, these boats are easy to use and navigate in lakes, ponds, rivers, and other bodies of water with shallow areas.
9. Sportfishing Boats
Sportfishing boats are a solid choice for serious saltwater fishing. They include just about everything you need to find, hook, and reel in even the most stubborn fish. Since they’re large and often contain lounge areas and sleeping galleys, sportfishing boats are ideal for family fishing adventures.
10. Walkarounds
Similar to center console boats, walkarounds feature a full-length deck so you can easily fish around the corner of the bow. The difference, however, is that they also include small cabins that offer protection from inclement weather.
How to Maintain Your Saltwater Fishing Boat
Regardless of which boat you choose for your fishing adventures, it’s up to you to keep it in tip-top shape. After a day on the water, wash your boat thoroughly with a pressure sprayer and soapy water. This will help remove the saltwater residue and prevent corrosion.
Don’t forget to flush the motor and wipe down the inside as well. Check your manual for more details on how to maintain your saltwater fishing boat and ensure it stands the test of time. If you have any questions, reach out to your manufacturer or dealer for additional guidance.
