The dilemma of a pontoon boat or fishing boat is something that can not be easily solved. There are several factors that you need to consider while making the decision.
Fishing boats are designed explicitly for fishing purposes. On the other hand, pontoons are also a tenable or workable option for fishing. But pontoons are not specifically designed for the same purpose alone.
Here and now, you may be pondering about the differences between these two boats.
- Which one is better than the other?
- What are their pros and cons?
And all these types of questions. So, if you find yourself confused while choosing between a pontoon boat or a fishing boat, this article may help you.
The factors I have penned down in this article will help you comprehend, to help you make the right choice. Now, without further ado, let’s dive into it.
Table of Contents
Characteristics of Pontoons
Pontoons are easily identifiable by their flat top. They offer a wide and commodious area for the passengers to budge around. The modern pontoons are luxurious and family-friendly. They are also known as ‘party boats.’
Pontoon boats consist of two canoes that allow them to be buoyant. Due to a significant amount of buoyancy, pontoons are larger and can carry more people. Moreover, the length of the pontoon varies between 17-40 feet.
Pros
Here is the quick list of pros.
Comfort
If comfort is what you prioritize the most, then a pontoon is the best option for a boat. With a pontoon, you will no longer have to sit on hardened steel or wood. Instead, the pontoon comes with luxurious sofas and comfy chairs.
Moreover, when it comes to the pontoon’s deck furniture, you are completely free to customize it too. Not only that, but Pontoon also offers plenty of space provided that there are not many people on board.
Safety Advantage
As compared to the other boats of the same league, the pontoon is among the safest of them. The design of the pontoon may not look lavish or extraordinary, but it has stability. The low average speed and the high railings around it also make pontoon a much safer option.
Pontoons have a wide turn radius similar to those exasperating 18 wheelers. And that is actually a good thing as it keeps you safe by not allowing you to take risky turns.
This wide turn radius also prevents you from turning the boat on its side. Although pontoons are safe, you should always keep the safety kit like life jackets along.
A Good Choice for Families With Kids
Kids like to play around and have fun, and they hate it when you make them sit in one place. On a traditional boat, kids get easily bored because traditional fishing boats do not offer much. However, on a pontoon, they will get enough room to jump off the couches, run, ride the tube, etc.
Unlike traditional boats, pontoons can hold up to 10 passengers at once. So, if you are looking to spend quality time with your kids on a boat, a pontoon is a good option.
Cons
Check out for these cons before making a decision.
Not for Rough Waters
Although you can use a pontoon in saltwater, taking it deep into the ocean might put you in trouble. When strong winds of the sea during bad weather conditions come into play, things can get terrible. They are not designed for harsh weather conditions.
Keep in mind that this only applies to bad weather or wind conditions. Otherwise, in normal conditions, a pontoon is a safe option.
Speed
A pontoon can not serve your purpose if all you want is speed. Pontoon boats are not for racing, and most of them are not capable of accelerating much. So high speed is what you are looking for, then you will surely be disappointed.
Characteristics of Fishing Boats
Fishing boats are specifically designed for catching fish. They usually have concrete surfaces and have 250-350 HP engines. Fishing boats come with vells, storage for gear, and trolling systems. They have a V-shape structure, and you can use it for trolling or drift fishing.
Pros
Speed
When we talk about speed, fishing boats are undoubtedly faster than pontoons. Due to their agility, fishing boats can accelerate much faster compared to the long and lavish boats.
Generally, these boats are relatively better equipped to handle rough and extreme weather conditions. Due to their ability to accelerate faster, fishing boats can quickly leave or reach areas densely populated by fishes. With a fishing boat, you will be able to cover lots of water in less time.
Ultimate Fishing Machine
Fishing boats are known for the ability to access all parts of the water. They can sneak through even from the tiniest of nooks. With a fishing boat, a fishing trip can even last for a day. Their mobility, immense power, and several other features combined make it the ultimate fishing boat.
Cons
Not Spacious Enough
Unlike pontoons, fishing boats do not offer enough space to do fun activities comfortably. With more than four people on board, you might feel cramped. However, there are several types of fishing boats like catamarans that are relatively larger.
But traditional fishing boats are usually 15-25 feet long. So if you want a family-friendly recreational fishing boat with enough space to roam around, a traditional fishing boat might not be the right choice. However, they do offer storage for keeping fishes.
All You Can Do is Fishing! Nothing More
There are many dedicated anglers all over the globe. But many are there who prefer to have fun, play games, relax and spend quality time on their fishing trip. Unfortunately, most fishing boats fail to offer such activities, and frankly speaking, they do not have enough space also.
Therefore, for such people, fishing becomes dull and boring. But if all you want is to catch fishes, then opting for a fishing boat will serve your purpose.
Pontoon Boat or Fishing Boat: Which is Better?
It’s tough to choose between a pontoon boat or a fishing boat. It solely depends on its passenger’s lifestyle and the purpose of the boat. However, we can draw some conclusions from this article.
When Pontoon Boat is the Best Choice
Pontoon is best for leisure fishers or families who want both of the two worlds. If you plan to invite your guests, what’s better than inviting them over on a pontoon ride?
When to Choose a Fishing Boat
This one is the best option for dedicated anglers who only step onto the boat when there is a prospect of a great catch.
Conclusion
The soothing atmosphere and the calm breeze of water bodies attract everyone. So whether your goal is to catch fishes alone or you want to spend quality time with your loved ones, make sure to consider all the essential factors mentioned in this article before investing in a pontoon boat or fishing boat.
I hope that the information provided will help you make the right decision.
Happy Boating!
