Best Inflatable Fishing Boats

Going fishing is one of those pleasant activities that many of us enjoy, but most of us cannot afford. The costs can really mount up, what with tackle, bait, clothes, travel, etc. And who has space for a boat, let alone money? Fortunately, we can enjoy this great American passtime on even the most modest of incomes now, thanks to inflatable fishing boats. These are the best inflatable fishing boats we could find. 

Top 10 Best Inflatable Fishing Boat Reviews

1. Advanced Elements Straitedge Angler Kayak

This inflatable kayak seats one fisherman and it is designed specially for anglers. It has an aluminium frame under the inflatable exterior and abrasion pads to make it more robust. Even with this it weighs a mere 41lbs. It is designed for a long time sitting, with lumbar support, a high seat back, and rod holders. In case of damage, it also includes a one year warranty. However due to construction, it is possible that once the warranty runs out, so does the kayak. The price is very reasonable for what you are getting.

 Our Rating: (4.1 / 5)

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2. Intex Mariner 4, 4-Person Inflatable Boat Set

If you want something truly cheap and cheerful, this is the boat for you. It is one of the lowest prices we have seen and, for a no-frills boat, it holds up well. It is made of robust plastic that survives abrasion and bumps. And it also has a rock guard and grab lines. However the floor is pretty flimsy. It has four valves so it inflates and deflates fast. It has three seat cushions and could easily handle three people with bait boxes.

 Our Rating: (4.0 / 5)

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3. Newport Vessels Catalina Inflatable Sport Tender Dinghy Boat

If you want something that will last you a bit better, you need to spend a bit more. This model is definitely more upper-end than average in terms of price, but it’s a good boat. It is sturdy and the plastic is thick, to reduce the risk of punctures. The frame is aluminium and the floor is hard plywood. It is built to last.  It has two alluminium seats, which give extra space underneath them. Due to it’s size and double seats, I could see 3-4 people plus bait boxes fitting on it. That said, it is not the most comfortable, and all this alluminium makes it heavier than usual. It comes with oars.

 Our Rating: (3.9 / 5)

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4. Sea Eagle 285 Inflatable Frameless Fishing Pontoon Boat – Pro Package

This boat is a more mid-range price, but has some amazing features. It weighs in at 42lbs, with an impressive load capacity of 450lbs. This makes it a great choice for the larger person, or for a day out on the water. It can float in as little as four inches, depending on load. The material is 1000 denier, so it is pretty strong. It comes with oars and a swivel seat, which looks fairly comfortable, but may not be great for larger people.

 Our Rating: (4.1 / 5)

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5. BRIS 10.8 ft Inflatable Boat Rafting Fishing Dinghy Tender poonton boat

Another good mid-range priced boat, but this time one for two people. The manufacturer claims it goes up to four, but three is really the limit for comfort. It has an alluminium floor and a few alluminium parts to the frame. Most of it is almost a millimetre of PVC, which is fairly strong. It includes two alluminium seats with space underneath. It also has a repair kit with it, which is convenient, if a bit disconcerting. This boat does not seem made to last very long.

 Our Rating: (4.3 / 5)

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6. Classic Accessories Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat

If you want a fairly cheap one-person boat with capacity for a motor, then this may be a good choice for you. It is priced very reasonably, but still checks many boxes. It has a one person seat that seems comfortable and fairly accommodating even to larger people. There is a mount for a motor, adjustable footrests, and rod holders. It is very simple to set up and use and it only weighs 25lbs.  As you ride it higher up, you get better visibility too. However please be aware you can only use it with a small bore electric engine, not a large petrol or diesel motor.

 Our Rating: (4.4 / 5)

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7. Sea Eagle SE9 Inflatable Motormount Boat – Fisherman’s Dream Package

For a boat with motor capacity that seats more than one, this is a good choice. It is also a very cheap boat, which has its ups and its downs. The main up being that it’s cheap. Unfortunately the engine capacity is not great for the four people it claims to seat. I see it more as a two to three person boat again. But at least four people actually fit. The materials are fairly robust, especially for a cheaper boat. But another downside is that it’s hard to assemble due to its simple design, weight, and materials.

 Our Rating: (4.7 / 5)

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8. Classic Accessories Colorado XTS Fishing Inflatable Pontoon Boat with Swivel Seat

This boat seats one and is average price. That said, like the previous boat of the same make, it is comfortable and even features a swivel seat. It is very robust, but is easy to row or motor around in. The seat is large enough for a larger person. And it has a few nice features, such as large storage capacity and a transport wheel that makes it easy for one person to move around. It has the same motor problems as the last one, though.

 Our Rating: (4.4 / 5)

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9. Newport Vessels 8-Feet 10-Inch Dana Inflatable Sport Tender Dinghy Boat

A slightly higher priced boat, but very robust. Its total length is a bit smaller than some of the other multi-person boats, and it advertises itself as a three person, but it’s more of a two. That said, it is very robustly built, with thick, triple layered PVC coating and a hard plywood floor. The design is great for durability, but also lightweight. However it is quite small internally, so it might get a bit cramped.

Our Rating: (4.7 / 5)

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10. Saturn 13 ft Red Inflatable Boat

If you want a premium boat, you have to pay a premium price. This boat is a great inflatable boat. It is large, seating the top end recommendation of four people, plus bait, with ease. They actually note that it could fit six, and it could even though it would be a squeeze. It takes a decent engine, allowing you to move at around 30mph. It is stainless steel for lightweight strength and durability, and the PVC is reinforced with a backing to prevent tears. The only downside is the price.

Our Rating: (5.0 / 5)

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Inflatable Fishing Boat Buying Guide

When choosing an inflatable fishing boat, the first concern should be purpose. There are three distinct categories: one person boats, two person boats, and three or more person boats. Always assume that the boat carries one fewer person than advertised. This is because you don’t want the one that fits you all, cramped, with no gear. You want elbow room, and space for your bait, or cooler. So always go one down. 

When it comes to one person boats, look for stability, lightness, and features. Stability is essential in these boats as often the weight in the boat will be biased, due to there only being one of you. Lightness is needed to transport it around. And added features that make life easier, such as cup holders, are a must. If you’re going to be out there alone, you need to make sure everything is just so. 

When it comes to multi-person boats, look for spaciousness, storage space, and robust sides. You can’t control what everyone is doing, so even though it will not need to be as stable as a one person boat, you need solid sides for balance. You also need enough room to move around each other and carry all your essentials. Look for benches you can put stuff under. 

You also need to consider the durability of the fabric. Choose one that is tear-proof and thick. Make sure it attaches well to the plastics and plywood. You don’t want torn seams or split glue at any time when you’re on the water. And while you’re at it, make sure the floor is solid enough. If you’re going to be in the shallows, you need a good firm floor. 

Ask yourself if you’re going to be rowing, motoring, or both. If you will be rowing then you need attachments to allow your oars to rest. It must be light enough and balanced enough, even when loaded, to move. And it must be steady enough with a well-placed bench for rowing ease. If you will be motoring, make sure it can take an engine that has the strength to propel your total load. And make sure the engine fittings are solid, because your motor is useless at the bottom of a lake. And always consider backups, like rowing or towing, just in case you need to. 

The Best Inflatable Fishing Boats Money Can Buy

I have to divide the boats into two categories, due to the two very different types I have found. Firstly we have solo boats. These are for anglers and are typically smaller, but more comfortable. The best solo boat is definitely the Classic Accessories Colorado XTS Fishing Inflatable Pontoon Boat with Swivel Seat. It’s versatile, attractive, comfortable, and full of features.

And then we have multi-person boats. These are much bigger and wider, but less designed for comfort. The best multi-person boat has to be the Saturn 13 ft Red Inflatable Boat. The only downside is how expensive it is.

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