What is a good family & fishing boat?

Question

This would be a boat for a lake, and for a person who has only driven a boat once but wants to learn.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Glad you said "lake" for that covers it a little but how large a lake? Does make a difference for if large you can go from a bow rider to a cruiser. If a small lake forget the cruisers and go fasts! Lastly, is the boat to be trailered to the lake or kept in a slip/lift or a marina?

Trailer boats: consider a bass, pontoon or runabout boat. Bass is great for fishing, runabout for cruising/skiing/tubing and the right pontoon boat for everything. Some runabouts now even come with enclosed heads for those "necessary moments!" Since you're a 1st time owner consider keeping you LOA to about 21 - 23" max.

Bass boats don't have the means to provide you shelter onboard during a storm but the other two usually have canvas packages you can put up when Momma Nature moves in too quickly.

Marina or lift kept: add to the list a cuddy cabin model if you need to have some shade/privacy or want to sleep on it. Here size if what can be handled comfortably. Good for cruising, fishing, skiing/tubing and comfort. Cuddy cabins can also offer a tax advantage is they have a galley, enclosed head, sleeping facilities and may qualify as a 2nd home under IRS guidelines. Check w/ your CPA or tax adviser to make certain.

You can also consider small to large cruiser class boats if you like but size should be considered based on lake size.

Best suggestion...take a look at what boats are on the lake already. Talk to the marinas but more importantly the owners you may see there. Trust me, when you start asking questions of us you'll find we are more than happy to offer advice!

Good luck and enjoy the boat, the water and the great times that are going to come with her!

Answer 2

Alot has to do with the type of water you plan to use the boat in... creek, stream, pond, river, bay... etc...

having a cabin with a full head, and galley is accommodating.... but not feasible for most streams.

Answer 3

It so much depends on where you are, your seamanship skills, and the type of fishing you want to do.  A family fishing boat can be anything from a canoe to a cabin cruiser or a yacht.  Here are a couple of links that may be of some help.