Many anglers are familiar with the fact that if no fish will bite on the bank, it is all the easier to catch fish on the water. But to get there, an inflatable fishing boat is very practical.
Avoid buying mistakes:
There is a large selection of inflatable fishing boats. Over 250 different products are offered on Amazon alone. It is often not easy to maintain an overview. How to find the right boat?
The best blow-up boats for fishing 2024:
BeyondSurfing has researched the best and most popular inflatable fishing boats 2024. So everyone is guaranteed to find the right boat for their needs.
Content
In a hurry? Our favorite inflatable boat:
- Fishing rod holder
- Rudder brackets
- 3 air chambers
Blow-up fishing boats Checklist
- Type of boat: A particularly important question before buying a fishing boat is what type of boat is needed. A small bellyboat is particularly maneuverable and easy to transport. An inflatable kayak for fishing is also very popular. Last but not least, a spacious classic inflatable boat is a good choice for casting rods out on the lake.
- Material: Fishing involves handling many sharp and pointed objects. Aluminum and special PVC are particularly puncture- and crack-resistant materials.
- Weight & size: The weight and size of a fishing boat together determine how stable the vessel is in the water. As a rule of thumb, you should make sure that the boat is heavy and lies deep in the water, especially in wilder waters. This is less necessary in calm waters.
- Waters: Sea, river, lake or canal, you can fish on many bodies of water. However, it is advisable to pay attention to the applicable legal regulations for each body of water. Each water area also places different demands on a fishing boat.
- Propulsion: If you like sporty activities, you can move your fishing boat with paddles. If the aim is to be able to change fishing spots quickly, or if you are going particularly far out, then an inflatable boat with a motor is the right choice to get the angler out on the water.
Also interesting: The most popular bathing boats for the summer.
The 7 best inflatable fishing boats 2024
Best blow-up fishing boat with fishing rod holder
1. seahawk from Intex
Advantages
- Fishing rod holder
- Rudder brackets
- 3 air chambers
Disadvantages
- No fixed transom for engine mounting
Summary
Designed for 2 people and with a load capacity of up to 200 kg, the Seahawk inflatable boat from Intex is the perfect choice for anyone who likes to fish in pairs or has a lot of equipment to transport.
Two rod holders offer the convenient option of being able to put the rods down without reeling them in. 3 air chambers enable a safe trip to the shore if one chamber is damaged.
Rudder holders ensure that the paddles supplied do not fall into the water. An air pump included in the scope of delivery enables the boat to be inflated quickly. Additional mounts for a motor bracket are fitted at the rear.
Conclusion
This fishing boat is the right choice for anyone looking for an inflatable fishing boat with all the important features at a good price.
Product details
Color: Green | Drive: Rudder, motor | Weight: 8.4 kg | Size: 2.36 x 0.41 x 1.14 m | Persons: 2 | Maximum load: 200 kg
Customer ratings
Most customers are very satisfied with the product. The long durability of the product and the good price are particularly praised. The durability of the model is also emphasized.
Around 8% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some customers complain that the inflatable boat leaks in many places after prolonged storage. The sluggish controls are also criticized.
FAQ
Best inflatable fishing boat with aluminum floor
2. fishing boat from ArtSport
Advantages
- Benches
- Carrier bag
- Aluminum floor
Disadvantages
- Heavy
Summary
The ArtSport fishing boat is a model with a fixed aluminum floor and 2 benches.
With a load capacity of up to 566 kg, the model can also transport heavy equipment and several people. With an interior width of 67 cm and a length of over three meters, the boat offers plenty of storage space.
A motor is not included with the product, but can be fitted as a drive in addition to the paddles. This can weigh up to 60 kg. Two aluminum paddles, a carrying bag, an air pump and a repair kit are included with the product.
Conclusion
If you want to buy a particularly robust boat that can also accommodate family and friends, this model is the right choice.
Product details
Color: white, blue | Drive: rudder, motor | Weight: 49 kg | Size: 3.20 x 1.55 x 0.59 m | Persons: 5 | Maximum load: 566 kg
Customer ratings
The majority of customers are very satisfied with the model. The durability of the boat and the ease of assembly are particularly praised. The clear instructions for use are also rated positively.
Around 8% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some buyers complain about slight scratches in the base plate.
FAQ
Best Belly Boat
3. high rider V2 from Savage Gear
Advantages
- Light
- Backpack carrying strap
- Footrest
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for waters with strong currents and high waves.
Summary
The High Rider V2 is a classic belly boat. It offers space for one person and is very easy to transport due to its small size.
Boxes mounted next to the seat offer sufficient space to stow the driver’s fishing equipment. An adjustable footrest provides additional comfort when fishing.
Two straps allow the boat to be carried on the back like a rucksack and protective pads on the underside provide additional reinforcement against abrasion.
The scope of delivery includes an air pump and a repair kit.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a good belly boat with some useful extras, this product is definitely a good choice.
Product details
Color: Black | Drive: Rudder | Weight: 14 kg | Size: 1.70 x 1.16 m | Persons: 1 | Maximum load: 180 kg
Customer ratings
FAQ
Best inflatable kayak for fishing
4th K2 Excursion Pro from Intex
Advantages
- Adjustable seats
- Bag included
Disadvantages
- Low load capacity
Summary
Kayak fishing is a popular form of angling. But conventional wooden kayaks are heavy and bulky. This inflatable kayak from Intex offers an alternative that is easier to transport.
It has room for 2 people and can carry up to 180 kg. Two adjustable seats provide sufficient comfort for extended fishing trips and handles offer additional support.
The boat has two fishing rod holes in which the rods can be inserted when fishing. There is also plenty of storage space for all your fishing equipment.
The boat is supplied with two double aluminum paddles, a hand pump and a pressure gauge, as well as a carrying bag and a repair kit.
Conclusion
Passionate kayak anglers are sure to make the right purchase decision with this inflatable boat.
Product details
Color: Orange, white | Drive: Rudder | Weight: 18 kg | Size: 0.38 x 0.94 x 0.46 m | Persons: 2 | Maximum load: 180 kg
Customer ratings
Most customers are very satisfied with the model. The stability of the inflatable boat in the water and the quick inflation are particularly praised. The high driving speed of the model is also rated positively.
Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 13% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some buyers complain that the boat loses air quickly. Others note a susceptibility to small holes.
FAQ
Best blow-up fishing boat with a slatted floor
5. BT-330 from BARK
Advantages
- 5-layer, reinforced PVC
- 3-year guarantee
- Sliding seat
- Slatted floor
Disadvantages
- Expensive
Summary
The BT-330 from BARK is a robust inflatable boat with a solid, batten-reinforced floor. The slats are made of special plywood for boat building and are waterproof. The boat skin is made of 5-layer PVC and is therefore particularly tear-resistant.
Rudder rollers ensure problem-free and safe guidance of the paddles. A rope is attached to the edge of the boat as a railing to hold on to. To protect against abrasion, the sides of the boat are protected with an additional PVC strip.
The keel of this inflatable boat also has such a strip. If required, a motor with an output of up to 15 hp can be attached to a fixed transom.
2 push seats are included with the product.
Conclusion
If you want to buy a high-quality, robust boat and are prepared to pay a little more for it, this model is the right choice.
Product details
Color: Green | Drive: Rudder, motor | Weight: 41 kg | Size: 3.30 x 1.60 m | Persons: 4 | Maximum load: 440 kg
Customer ratings
The majority of customers are very satisfied with the model. Above all, the quality of the workmanship and the durability of the material of the inflatable boat are praised.
No customers are neutral about the product, while 14% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
One customer complained about a scratch in the material and criticized the quality of the boards of the slatted floor.
FAQ
Best inflatable fishing boat with high load capacity
6th Excursion Pro from Intex
Advantages
- High load capacity
- Fishing rod holder
- Benches
Disadvantages
- Bulky
Summary
The Excursion Pro from Intex can carry a full 590 kg on the water. Family outings and fishing trips with a few friends are also possible.
Fishing rod holders mounted on the edge of the boat make it easy to put down the rods without having to reel them in. The boat’s inflatable benches provide additional comfort.
The inflatable boat can be propelled by oars or a trolling motor. However, this is not supplied with the boat and must be purchased separately.
The product comes with an air pump and two aluminum oars. A carrying bag and a repair kit are also included.
Conclusion
This model is definitely the right choice for anyone who would like to go fishing with several friends and extensive equipment.
Product details
Color: Blue, grey | Drive: Rudder, motor | Weight: 25.9 kg | Size: 3.658 x 1.676 x 0.432 m | Persons: 5 | Maximum load: 590 kg
Customer ratings
The majority of customers are very satisfied with the model. Many buyers particularly like the boat’s comfortable seats and the option of fitting an electric motor to the boat. But the robustness of the model is also praised.
Around 8% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some customers complain about leaking valves on the boat. Quick loosening of the seams at important points is also criticized.
FAQ
Best inflatable fishing boat with a good price-performance ratio
7. condor 2000 from Bestway
Advantages
- Inexpensive
- Including rudder & pump
- GS-certified
Disadvantages
- Low maximum load
Summary
Easy to transport, inexpensive and GS-certified. The Kondor 2000 from Bestway offers everything a good inflatable fishing boat needs.
The boat is made of PVC, has 3 air chambers and can be loaded with up to 120 kg. This means that an angler can still take some accessories on the boat and is also safe if an air chamber is damaged.
TÜV Rheinland also certifies the product’s tested safety with its GS certificate.
The product comes with two oars, an air pump and a self-adhesive repair patch.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an blow-up fishing boat with all the basic functions at a good price, this model is definitely the right choice.
Product details
Color: Orange | Drive: Rudder | Weight: 4.5 kg | Size: 1.88 x 0.98 x 0.30 m | Persons: 1 | Maximum load: 120 kg
Customer ratings
Most customers like the model very much. The affordable price and high-quality workmanship of the product are particularly praised. The durability of the boat is also positively emphasized.
Around 8% are neutral about the product, while 13% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One customer criticized the low load capacity of the product.
FAQ
Rating of inflatable fishing boats
| Name | Price* | Color | Drive | Weight | Size | People | Maximum load |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seahawk from Intex | approx. 56 $ | Green | Rudder, motor | 8.4 kg | 2.36 x 0.41 x 1.14 m | 2 | 200 kg |
| Fishing boat from Artsport | approx. 499 $ | White, blue | Rudder, motor | 49 kg | 3.20 x 1.55 x 0.59 m | 5 | 566 kg |
| High Rider V2 from Savage Gear | approx. 479 $ | Black | Rudder | 14 kg | 1.70 x 1.16 m | 1 | 180 kg |
| K2 Excursion Pro from Intex | approx. 243 $ | Orange, white | Rudder | 18 kg | 0.38 x 0.94 x 0.46 m | 2 | 180 kg |
| BT-330 from BARK | approx. 605 $ | Green | Rudder, motor | 419 kg | 3.30 x 1.60 m | 4 | 440 kg |
| Excursion Pro from Intex | approx. 284 $ | Blue, Green | Rudder, motor | 25.9 kg | 3.658 x 1.676 x 0.432 m | 5 | 590 kg |
| Kondor 2000 from Bestway | approx. 44 $ | Orange | Rudder | 4.5 kg | 1.88 x 0.98 x 0.30 m | 1 | 120 kg |
| *Approximateprice incl. VAT included. Prices may change in the meantime. | |||||||
Bestsellers: The most popular inflatable boats
(**Last update 2024-09-16)
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Buy an inflatable fishing boat:
How to make the right decision
Fishing on an inflatable fishing boat has many advantages. The position can be changed quickly depending on the current and fish can also be taken out of the water in the middle of a bay.
But what do you need to look out for when buying a boat to ensure that it meets the user’s individual requirements on the water? BeyondSurfing has compiled the most important aspects in this guide.
What to consider when buying inflatable fishing boats?
When looking for the perfect boat for your next fishing trip, there are a few things to consider. BeyondSurfing has listed the most important points:
Type: What type of boat is needed?
Inflatable fishing boats come in different shapes and sizes. Many have special features to provide greater comfort when fishing.
BeyondSurfing presents the three most important types of inflatable fishing boats:
Classic inflatable boat
There are a number of inflatable fishing boats that are specially designed for fishing. Visually, they do not differ much from normal inflatable boats. However, these models usually have special features that are useful when fishing.
For example, some boats are equipped with a specially reinforced floor to provide more stability. There is also often separate storage space for fishing accessories.
As anglers often handle sharp and pointed objects such as fishing hooks and filleting knives, many inflatable fishing boats are equipped with a particularly resistant membrane. Some models also have separate air chambers. This means that the boat will not sink even if a chamber bursts.
The size of inflatable fishing boats can vary greatly. From small boats for one or two people to large versions that can accommodate up to 8 anglers, there are no limits to this type of boat.
Belly boat
This type of boat is a particularly maneuverable and small inflatable boat. It is usually designed for one person and its shape is reminiscent of an armchair floating on water.
The angler can sit on this seat. His legs hang down into the water. BeyondSurfing therefore advises you to wear waders with this type of boat.
Most models have boxes or bags attached to the right and left of the seat to store fishing equipment. In addition, brackets for small rudders are often fitted here.
Taking a belly boat out on the water is a good idea for anglers who don’t want to stir up too much water so that the fish under the boat are not disturbed. This type of inflatable fishing boat is therefore particularly suitable for small and calm water areas.
The compact design of a belly boat means that it is easy to transport and can be easily set up and launched by one person.
Inflatable kayak
Fishing from a kayak is a popular form of angling. This type of boat is also available in an inflatable version. The models are usually designed for one or two people, who can sit one behind the other in the vehicle.
Kayaks are fast and maneuverable boats and therefore a good choice if you want to go fishing on the river or change fishing spots frequently.
In contrast to conventional sports kayaks, the models for fishing are designed so that they cannot turn or roll over. This keeps the expensive fishing equipment in the boat and prevents it from sinking to the bottom of the river. However, the boats are still somewhat less stable in the water than an inflatable boat, for example.
Material: Which material is best suited?
Depending on the body of water in which they are used, inflatable fishing boats have to be able to withstand a lot. For this reason, special materials should be used for some parts of the boat before purchasing a model.
Floor material?
Whether it is launched over sand and rocks or heavy equipment has to be transported, the bottom of a boat is often subjected to heavy loads.
To ensure that it can withstand this, it must be made of the right material. Many manufacturers use special plastics that are particularly resistant to abrasion. However, some models also use other materials to protect the bottom of the inflatable boat.
Aluminum, a robust and relatively lightweight material, is also used. However, if you attach more importance to the transport weight than the stability of your boat, a vehicle with an inflatable floor is the right choice for you.
Outer membrane material?
Inflatable boats always have a hull filled with air. This makes them easy to transport and gives them great stability on the water. However, the hull of the boats is also their weak point. If it is damaged, the boat loses its air and threatens to sink.
To prevent this from happening, many manufacturers use special membranes to produce this cover. Special PVC materials are used in particular. Elastomers with multiple bonding are particularly noteworthy here. These do not harden and remain elastic.
Thanks to these properties, a boat can be deflated and reinflated easily, while at the same time its cover is robust and can withstand abrasion from sharp objects, for example.
Weight and size: How should the boat behave on the water?
An important point when choosing the right inflatable fishing boat is its dimensions and the amount of water it displaces.
Weight?
How heavy a boat is determines how stable it floats in the water. If the weight is high, it lies low in the water and the boat is less susceptible to wind and waves.
BeyondSurfing therefore recommends a heavier inflatable boat, especially at sea or on rivers with strong currents.
Size?
To a certain extent, the size of an inflatable fishing boat is certainly related to its weight. However, this is not an obstacle, as the properties complement each other well.
A small, maneuverable boat is a good choice for shallow or narrow waters. Large boats need a lot of space to be able to steer them. This usually goes hand in hand with rougher characteristics of the water.
Water: On which water surface should the boat sail?
There are four different water areas on which a fishing boat can be used:
Salt water, sand and rocks are tough on the dinghy when it hits the waves. To prevent damage to the vehicle, the underbody and the membrane of the side walls in particular should be very resistant.
BeyondSurfing’s recommendation is to use aluminum and specially sealed PVC.
Know the water:
There are many shallows, rocks and strong currents off the coast. The tides should also be taken into account. Anyone who decides to go fishing at sea should be well informed beforehand. It is advisable to find experienced anglers and go out to sea with them. They also usually know the best fishing grounds. Under no circumstances should you set sail on your own!
Similar considerations must be taken into account when choosing the right inflatable boat for this type of water.
Depending on the type of river, the boat should have a robust and particularly tear-resistant membrane. Stone packs and groynes in particular can otherwise be dangerous for the air cushions.
For larger rivers with strong currents, an outboard motor is recommended. This ensures that the anglers can also avoid an approaching excursion boat quickly enough.
Nature conservation:
In addition, on many rivers it is important to check whether the body of water is a designated nature reserve. What is already true for fishing is also relevant when using the inflatable fishing boat.
Embankments must not be damaged, motors are only permitted with a special permit or not at all. Especially if you are moving a few kilometers downstream in search of the best fishing spot, you should check the maps beforehand to see whether it is permitted to navigate this section.
In principle, all types of inflatable fishing boats can be used on a lake. It depends more on what kind of fishing you want to do.
If you want to create as little movement in the water as possible, for example for spin fishing, a small belly boat is a good option. An angler who goes out on the water with a lot of equipment, an echo sounder and various rods, on the other hand, should choose a larger and heavier model.
In principle, all types of inflatable boats can also be used here. From small boats for one person to large inflatable boats for 6 or more people, there are no limits when it comes to taking all your fishing friends out on the water. Everyone can ride well on the calm water surface.
Observe shipping law:
However, caution is also advised on the canal! Many cargo ships sail here, which have very little room to maneuver in their fairway. An inflatable fishing boat should be able to be moved to the side quickly.
Anglers should also find out whether private boats are permitted on the chosen stretch of water before embarking on a tour. Particularly in places where fishing is also restricted, such as in front of locks, the legal requirements should be strictly observed. Otherwise there is a risk of severe fines and driving is not always completely safe.
Fishing is possible in many different places. Whether it’s zander fishing on the river or the angler is after a rare sea trout on the coast, the choice of boat makes a big difference.
Propulsion: What gets the inflatable boat across the water?
There are various options for getting around on the water. Attention should always be paid to the effect the type of drive has on the fish. In addition, anglers must also take into account secondary conditions such as the strength of the current and larger vessels when choosing a drive.
Inflatable boats can usually be propelled in two ways:
Paddle?
Paddles are the traditional method of moving vehicles on the water.
- Inexpensive
- Often disturb fish less
- Easy to transport
- Require muscle power
- Are bulky
- Not suitable for strong currents
Outboard motor?
Motors for inflatable fishing boats are available in many variations. They are an effective way to get a boat across the water quickly.
- High speed
- Suitable for any body of water
- Reliably move even heavy boats
- Expensive
- Often disturb fish
- Need fuel
However, such a license must only be held by one person on board a boat. Even the person steering the boat does not have to have a license as long as they follow the instructions of a person with a license.
Other accessories: What else is useful for inflatable fishing boats?
There are useful accessories for many inflatable fishing boats that make the outdoor fishing experience even more exciting.
Motor
Many inflatable fishing boats can also be fitted with a motor. Not only is motorized driving more fun and saves energy, but the fishing spot can also be changed quickly and easily if necessary.
Motors for inflatable boats are available in many designs. From the classic outboard motor to the simple trolling motor to the boat with electric motor, the boater can choose from many alternatives.
However, it is important to ensure that the motor can also be mounted on the selected boat type. In addition, a boating license is usually required from a power of 15 hp.
Tent
Anyone who has ever gone fishing in the rain will be familiar with this: A dry shelter is quickly sought from which the rods can still be easily seen. But what if the angler is on his boat in the open water?
In this case, some manufacturers offer inflatable fishing boats with a tent. The variation with this gadget is huge. From a simple sun canopy to a laterally closed tent that can withstand heavy rain, everything is included.
BeyondSurfing recommends paying attention to tents that are sold by the provider to match a boat model.
Maintenance: care and storage of the inflatable fishing boat
A good inflatable fishing boat is an expensive purchase. It should therefore be well cared for so that it lasts a long time and gives pleasure. But how is an inflatable boat properly maintained and how should it be stored? BeyondSurfing has put together the most important steps for maintaining an inflatable fishing boat.
Correct care?
After each trip, the items on the following list should be worked through to clean the inflatable boat:
- Rinse the boat (and outboard motor if necessary) with plenty of fresh water
- Wipe the boat with a soft sponge and a soap solution
- Cleaning the surface of the boat with a special inflatable boat cleaner
- Treatment of the surface with products for the care and sealing of the boat membrane
- Grease screws (plastic and metal) and all metal parts to protect them from rust
- Complete drying of the boat
Video comparison of several cleaners for inflatable boats:
Click here for the test winner from the video on Amazon.
Good storage?
The correct storage of the inflatable boat is also carried out in a certain order of priority. In general, the following steps must be carried out:
- Clean the inflatable fishing boat completely as described under Care
- Pad objects that could press into the boat skin (e.g. with polystyrene)
- Fold the boat skin with particular care, avoid creases
- Only store the inflatable boat in its bag and in a dry place
A little air should remain in the boat during long periods of storage. This reduces the likelihood of creases forming in the boat skin. If the boat is not used for a long time, permanent damage to the boat could otherwise occur.
Well-known brands and manufacturers?
The best-known and most popular suppliers of inflatable fishing boats include:
- Tick
- Sportex
- Intex
Neither Consumer Reports nor Öko Test have yet published a report on the results of inflatable fishing boats.
Conclusion
There are many things to consider when buying an inflatable fishing boat. Where and how you fish plays a major role. BeyondSurfing’s guide will help you keep track of what you need when looking for the right boat. So your next fishing trip will be a complete success!
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about inflatable fishing boats
What to look out for when buying an inflatable fishing boat?
Once you have made your choice, you should make sure that the size, material and weight of the boat are suitable for the intended use. If all this is taken into account, nothing will stand in the way of your next fishing trip!
What is the best inflatable fishing boat?
If you are fishing on a fjord, you will need a different boat that offers plenty of space and a stable bottom. Fast and maneuverable inflatable fishing boats are recommended for fishing on local rivers, while boats that are particularly stable in the water should be used on the open sea.
In principle, however, every inflatable fishing boat should be the right size, made of a suitable material and have a weight that corresponds to the angler’s transport options. Before buying a boat, you should also pay attention to its design and a suitable drive.
How expensive are good inflatable fishing boats?
How to care for and store an inflatable fishing boat?
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