SPOTLIGHT ON... SMALL BOATS SPOTLIGHT ON SMALL BOATS For fishing on lakes, rivers or inshore waters a small boat can be a game changer. You don’t need a high-speed long-range cruiser to fish more effectively, but what is out there? Jumping into a small boat to target previously inaccessible fishing spots is an attractive proposition and no longer do you need deep pockets in order to buy and maintain a ‘full-on’ boat. The variety of water craft has increased rapidly, and now from motor and drift boats of varying sizes to inflatables and kayaks rigged out with rod holders and bait wells, there is something for everyone. Choosing the best fishing boat depends on several factors including budget, where you’ll use it, where you’ll store it and how long you’ll use it per outing. There are many boats that can function as fishing boats but Small is beautiful. for anglers it helps to get a boat designed with fishing in mind. Small fishing boats are generally up to about 20 feet long, often much smaller, with no cabin or pilothouse and these boats include several different types, either solid or inflatable and available in several lengths. Some rowboats are explicitly designed for fishing, such as the drift boat. It’s perfect for river fishing over either shallow or deep water. Modern rowboats range from simple inflatable rubber flat-bottomed boats to fibreglass V-shaped hulls. The kayak is quickly moving up the ranks as a go-to fishing platform. Fishing kayaks are generally between 9ft to 13ft. A decent fishing kayak will also provide a spot to install a trolling motor, which takes away the issue of having to paddle and fish simultaneously. Kayaks are great for rivers, lakes, ponds, and oceans, typically built for calmer waters, both shallow and deep. Rigid hull inflatable boats, or RHIBs, are quickly growing in popularity, and make great fishing boats. The skiff is typically made from either wood or fibreglass or a combination of both, with either a V shape, modified V, or a flat hull design. Jon boats are among the most popular fishing boats for three reasons: price, ease of use, and transportability. These simple boats are typically made of aluminium, have a flat or almost flat bottom, and weigh next to nothing. Some models are fibreglass or polyethylene, seating is typically two benches, and maintenance is almost nonexistent. Jon boats are great for lakes, ponds, and bigger rivers. At the top end of our market, bass boats Any sort of baot can help you reach the fish more easily. are created specifically for fishing. They are perfect for ponds, lakes, larger rivers and bays. Some models can go offshore as well. The slight V shape to the hull allows them to gain speed and get you out to the fish fast, while the flat design gets you into ultrashallow water. Inflatables offer portability, they take up a reasonably small amount of space when deflated and not in use and don’t require a trailer – the smaller models will fit into a backpack and are easily and quickly inflated with a small pump at the water’s edge. Inflatable fishing boats are generally much cheaper than a wooden, metal or plastic boat, so if you’re an angler on a budget, buying an inflatable is a good option. The challenge for the retailer is to work out where to display – and stock – such items in their shop. Of course, you’ll also need some knowledge about the options available. There are also plenty of accessories you can add to your inventory – from fish finders and motors to buoyancy aids, shallow water anchors, live bait wells, boat bags and boxes and even rod holders. Take a look at a few of the options available on the next couple of pages and see if they float your boat! 20 www.tackletradeworld.com
lineaeffe.it happIness is a FIshing day! ANGLER: Daniele “Maio” Maioriello @maio_nomura_angler_official FIND OUT WHAT’S NEW IN 2023 ON WWW.LINEAEFFE.IT FISH IN PEACE! Lineaeffe S.p.a - Via Massumatico, 3689 - 40018 S. Pietro in Casale (BO) - ITALY - info@lineaeffe.it