As a result of the global pandemic in 2020, many people worldwide, and in Canada specifically, rediscovered their love for the outdoors. Not only that, but people who have never considered themselves as outdoorsy are trying new recreational activities more than ever before.

In 2020, some provinces saw an increase in recreational fishing license sales by 30 percent! That’s a lot of new people in the water! This trend will likely continue in 2021.

Those who are committed to fishing locally are already looking for the best fishing boat to make the most of the upcoming season. Everyone knows the most enjoyable way to catch a fish and soak up the sun is on the deck of a boat, floating on one of our beautiful waterways.

Not only is it the most fun way to fish, but it’s the safest way to distance yourself from other anglers as well. Piers and many shore fishing spots can get crowded. If you hope to be on the water this year, read on to see the best fishing boats of 2021.

Types of Fishing Boats

Before diving into the best brands, it’s helpful to understand that there are tons of different types of fishing boats. Not all are created equal.

You need to know where you plan to fish, how you plan to fish, and what type of fish you are hoping to catch most frequently before just buying any old fishing boat. Here are a few of the most popular types of fishing boats today.

Aluminum Boats

The entry-level boat, aluminum boats are strong, lightweight, and easy to maintain. For the new boater, aluminum will dent rather than break or shatter like fibreglass when, not if, you hit something. They are smaller boats but effective for exploring new water and catching fish.

Bass Boats

Bass boats are specifically designed to chase bass on inland lakes. They are fast and powerful. The layout makes it easy to stand, cast, and land fish in. They are small, though, usually only accommodating 2 people.

Bay Boats

Bay boats are smaller, simple boats that are perfect for in-shore saltwater fishing. You can expect features such as livewells, rod holders, and casting platforms, all packaged into a small but effective package.

Center Console Boats

Center console boats have the steering mounted in the center of the boat, allowing fishing access around the boat’s entire perimeter. This type of boat is one of the most popular in salt and fresh water.

Jon Boats

Jon boats are simple, small, yet effective fishing and hunting boats. Usually made of aluminum, they can carry up to 4 people.

If your goal is to get on the water to catch fish affordably, these boats are a great option. You can get a boat for as little as a few thousand dollars. Perfect for the no-frills angler.

Pontoons

Pontoons are generally not considered fishing boats. They are larger and slower than most other boat types.

However, they offer ample seating, are very comfortable, and are more stable in the water. They can easily accommodate families and children for a day out on the water.

And you can easily fish from them as you go.  If taking many passengers on the water is more important than serious fish stalking, a pontoon can be a great option.

Best Fishing Boat Brands of 2021

Now that we have a better idea of what types of fishing boats are available for us recreational anglers let’s jump into the best brands of 2021. Get ready to start planning your fishing season!

Triton

We absolutely love Triton boats. They are top quality and offer a variety of styles.

When you are serious about fishing, these are the first boats to consider. Triton builds both aluminum and fibreglass boats. Fibreglass boats include bass boats, fish and ski, and bay boats.

Aluminum boats include bass boats, center consoles, side consoles, and jon boats. They also make aluminum bow fishing and duck hunting boats.

All of their boats are handcrafted in Arkansas, United States. Dozens of tournament-winning professionals trust Triton.

Lund

Another favourite, Lund, also offers both aluminum and fibreglass fishing boats. These boats are designed and built by fishermen, so if your goal is to catch fish, they will serve you well.

Lund boats are small, nimble, and effective for fishing, hunting, and camping. They also offer fish and ski boats for families. They are the perfect small, inland fishing boats. Lund boats also have a high resale value whenever you are ready to move onto your next boat.

Bennington

Bennington specializes in pontoons and tritoons.  These boats are much larger, much more comfortable, and more luxurious than your standard fishing boats. Bennington offers luxurious models, sports models, and boats with customizable floor plans.

If your goal is to bring the whole family on the water or to entertain, Bennington boats are perfect. They aren’t specifically designed for fishing, but you can fish effectively from any of these boats. You can choose a model with swivelling bass seats, a livewell, and rod holders.

Tritons will allow you to take on rough, open water. They also have a Saltwater series for those looking to fish and cruise in the ocean.

How Much Do Fishing Boats Cost?

Depending on the type of boat you are looking for, how large, fast, and outfitted you’d like it to be, costs for a new boat can vary dramatically. Smaller, simpler boats, such as jon boats, can be as low as $1,000, while state-of-the-art luxury pontoons can cost as much as $100,000 or more.

A standard small, sport fishing boat may cost around $25,000. For those in the Winnipeg area, we offer financing on fishing boats, as well as snowmobiles and ATVs.

How to Choose the Right Fishing Boat

Between the 3 boat brands listed above, there are a lot of options to choose from. So how do you narrow down the best fishing boat for you? There are tons of factors that impact the type of boat you’ll need. Here are some of the most important.

Where Will You Be Fishing the Most?

Many boats are designed for specific types of areas and may not function well in all water types. Do you plan to spend most of your time at your local lake?

Are there larger lakes you plan on travelling to? Manitoba has many to choose from.

Do you have saltwater inlets or bays you want to explore? Or are you hoping to navigate up narrow or fast-flowing rivers?

Take some time to realistically plan on where you want to use your boat the most. There’s no one size fits all. But you can choose a boat best suited for the majority of your needs.

How Many People Do You Plan on Taking?

This can help you narrow down your choices really fast. Do you plan on spending a lot of time on the water by yourself or with 1 other fishing buddy? Specialized fishing boats such as bass boats, small aluminum boats, or even jon boats might serve you well.

Do you want to bring a slightly larger group, such as a couple of friends or kids? A center console boat or fish and ski boat can comfortably fit between 4 and 6 people.

Or are you looking to have a party on the boat with 8 or more people at a time? A pontoon or tritoon will be your best bet. Bennington it is.

What Type of Fishing do You Plan on Doing?

If your main focus is chasing and catching largemouth bass, a bass boat from Triton or Lund will make the most sense. Or are you looking to do a little bit of everything? A center console or side console boat is well suited to various conditions and functions reasonably well in small rivers to large lakes, in everything in between.

Boat Material

The material of your boat will also impact your fishing. An aluminum boat is cheaper, easier to maintain and repair, and lighter, transporting a breeze. However, because of its lightweight, aluminum gets blown around by the wind more, which can be frustrating when delicate casting and presentation are required.

Fibreglass boats are more expensive and heavier. They are more stable in the wind and choppy water. They can also handle larger engines and higher speeds.

Fibreglass boats are recommended for more experienced boaters. They also take more effort to maintain each day they are used.

Your Best Year Ever

The best time to get a boat was 10 years ago. You would’ve had the best 10 years of your life. The next best time to get a fishing boat is now.

Life doesn’t get much better than spending a day out on the water, enjoying the fresh air, the sunshine, and a solid tug on the end of your line. You deserve as many of those days as possible.

If you are ready to find the best fishing boat for you, you can view our selection here.  The water is waiting for you. We’ll see you out there.