The Best Inflatable Fishing Boats of 2022
Fishing is therapy for must of us. We get our lines in the water and everything else about our daily lives just slowly starts to disappear from the forefront of our minds.
Actually getting out ON the water is even better!
There are many ways to accomplish this and in many forms. Today we are going to take a look at some of the most inexpensive and efficient ways to do so, where you don’t have to stress out your wallet while relaxing out on the water.
What is the best inflatable fishing boat?
This question gets asked more often than you might think and there are a few things to consider before making that determination.
What type of waters you are fishing, what kinda fish you’re after, how many folks you’re trying to take along and their experience levels, and your budget are a few things that come to mind right off the bat. Let’s take a look at some other questions.
Are Inflatable Boats Worth It?
Yes, we think they’re worth every penny! Inflatable boats, even on the high end, compared to most solid frame boats, are considerably less expensive.
They are becoming increasingly popular and a lot of anglers prefer inflatable fishing boats, not just for the lower price tag, but because of the versatility they offer.
These boats take up very little space, are easily stored away, and absolutely portable without a trailer or even a truck for that matter. Yes, you can keep the car!
Live in an apartment building? Get yourself an inflatable fishing kayak. When you’re done on the water, leave it in your car, stick it in the closet, or slide it under your bed!
Weight is another consideration. The inflatable boats we’re covering today will accommodate at least a trolling motor and it takes a lot less power to push one of these little sweethearts along than it does with a heavier solid body boat.
Less energy and less fuel means more cash in your wallet!
Are Inflatable Boats Safe for Fishing?
Inflatable boats have been around for a very long time. Once upon a time, one had to be very careful because it was just too easy to compromise and puncture a raft-style vessel.
However, with advances in technology and materials, today’s inflatables offer a whole new world of safety and structural integrity.
Made of either PVC or Hypalon, most damage that may occur with the boats on our list today are easily repaired as they are surprisingly durable in the first place. If you are prepared, like in most cases, you will be fine.
You just need to know your boat, what it needs, and show up ready for whatever the day throws your way. You do that, and an inflatable boat is an easy rider enabling you to do some serious angling in some precarious locations.
Another positive in the world of inflatable angling vessels is their agility and ability to maneuver in and out of some sloughs and holes that a lot of solid bodied boats may not make it into.
This opens up some ideas to perhaps do a little small game or waterfowl hunting while tossing a line in the water.
If you want to get out on the water and into places that you just can’t access from the bank without breaking YOUR bank, inflatable boats are the way to go.
Overall, they are just easy to manage so that you can spend less time fighting with peripherals, like trailers and licenses, and more time getting down to what you came to do in the first place, FISH!
With that, let’s get our lines in the water and take a look at The Best Inflatable Fishing Boats of 2022!
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the 5 best inflatable boats for fishing in 2022
Intex Excursion 5 Person Boat Set
The Intex Excursion 5 Person Boat Set, as its name would reveal, holds up to 5 people and is one of the most budget friendly inflatables on the market while still retaining quality and integrity as a simple and solid set up.
With pump and oars included, this US Coast Guard approved boat has super-tough vinyl construction for strength and durability and inflatable seats and floor for added comfort.
Straight out of the car and inflated in just minutes, the Intex Excursion 5 gets you on the water faster and on your way to angling, camping, playtime, or just a quiet leisure stroll through calm waters.
Made of rugged, welded vinyl for longterm durability, this boat has an inflatable I-beam floor for comfort and rigidity. This inexpensive boat, with a few modifications, can be transformed into a boat that is much more sturdy than its factory arrival.
The Intex Excursion 5 is very stable, especially once if you put a hard floor into it. You can easily take 4 adults out on this boat after these floor modifications and everyone can stand up without worrying about tipping over. That’s solid!
This boat is great for a mid-size trolling motor but should have no trouble handling something up to 55 or 60 lbs if you want a little more speed and power.
The Intex Excursion 5 Person Boat Set is ready for the lake and will handle the wake of bigger boats, just be prepared to get a little attention, as people are going to want to know more about this inexpensive gem and how she handles!
FEATURES AND SPECS:
3 air chambers including an auxiliary air chamber in hull for extra buoyancy
The inner auxiliary chamber alone will keep you afloat
Boston valve on two main hull chambers for quick-fill & fast-deflate
Rugged vinyl construction
All around grab line
Inflatable I-Beam floor for comfort and rigidity
Four fishing rod holders
Two roomy inflatable seats with backrest
One gear pouch
Grab handle on bow (one on each side)
Two pair of welded oar locks
Oar holders (two on each side)
Motor Mount Fittings
Includes Repair Patch (Do not inflate in under 30 minutes after patching)
Inflated size: 10’4” X 5’5” X 1’5”
Package Dimensions: 20.51” x 14.02” x 24.04”
Weight: 57.4 lb
Weight Capacity: 1,100 lb
Accessories: 54” Aluminum Oars & High-Output Pump
U.S. Coast Card I.D.
TUV approved
Alright, stepping it up quite a bit here with this guy. Lots of love from the Rugged Man crew for the Classic Accessories Colorado XTS Inflatable Fishing Pontoon!
The Colorado XTS Pontoon is a 9-foot high-capacity pontoon boat with swivel padded seat, transport wheel, removable stripping basket and gear bags.
This is a one person deal, so the idea that it can safely carry up to 400 lbs means that you can be a pretty big dude and still get on this thing with confidence, along with a motor and battery, and all of your gear with no problem.
Speaking of all of your gear, the Colorado XTS Pontoon has a TON of secure pockets and storage. In fact, you would have to get pretty creative to think of utilizing all of this space, and that’s a good position to be in. It means you can come extra prepared. This allows you to think ahead about ALL of those potentials that could go wrong while you’re floating around out there and simply be ready for them.
It feels good to be prepared. It feels good to have gear that aids you in being prepared. This is a fine product and one of the best inflatable boats on the market, period!
FEATURES & SPECS:
Boat and oars disassemble into a compact size for easy transport and storage
Two-year limited warranty
Heavy-duty pontoons with abrasion resistant PVC bottom, tough nylon tops and powder coated steel tube frame
Cold and heat resistant bladders
Two-position motor mount
Wire rear storage and battery platform
Rod holder can be mounted in six different positions
Two-position integrated anchor system with fillable mesh bag, cord and pulley
Swivel padded seat folds down, three oar-lock positions
Seat mount and foot rests adjust to a variety of leg lengths
Strong, non-corroding brass oar-locks
Removable stripping basket for side or lap mounting
Huge storage capacity; includes 20 pockets and two insulated drink holders
Two detachable micro-slit fly patches
Stowable transport wheel
Bladder patch kit
Assembled size: 108” L x 56” W x 28” H (to top of seat)
Weight: 80 lbs
Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
Boat and oars disassemble into a compact size for easy transport and storage
Two-year limited warranty
Heavy-duty pontoons with abrasion resistant PVC bottom, tough nylon tops and powder coated steel tube frame
Cold and heat resistant bladders
Two-position motor mount
Wire rear storage and battery platform
Rod holder can be mounted in six different positions
Two-position integrated anchor system with fillable mesh bag, cord and pulley
Swivel padded seat folds down, three oar-lock positions
Gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to the mighty Leviathan on our list today, the BRIS 1.2mm PVC 15.4 ft Inflatable Boat Inflatable Rescue &Dive Boat Dinghy Raft!
This is a tank of an inflatable boat! This model is designed for daily pleasure or professional use and it is built strong enough to take on a 40 horsepower engine!
Special reinforced fabrics and a durable floor will handle you, 8 companions, and all of your gear for pleasure or rescue. Whether you stay on-board and pull somebody in or roll off the pliable sides with your dive tank on, the BRIS Inflatable Rescue & Dive 15.4 ft Power Boat is ready for your next adventure or rescue mission.
All seams are heat welded and guaranteed to last in fresh water, salt water and extreme humidity. Most seams are quadruple overlap for maximum strength and durability and will not fall apart.
Though a bit more expensive than most of the other boats on our list today, the BRIS Inflatable Rescue & Dive 15.4 ft Power Boat still comes in well under the price tag of an equivalent hard bodied vessel, in some ways will outperform them, and is every bit as ready for the wake and wear!!
FEATURES & SPECS:
Main tube fabric: 2000 denier 1.2 mm PVC
Bottom floor fabric: 2000 denier 1.2mm PVC
Floor type : 12.5 mm thickness aluminum floor
Marine plywood transom for outboard motor
Double layers of fabric at the bottom of the tubes
Five individual chambers
One-way drain valve with plug
Aluminum side joiners with rubber ends
Deep V-keel with rub-strake protection
Built-in oarlock for easy rowing
Transom stainless "D" lifting rings
Eleven Interior tie down stainless steel D-rings
Two large tow stainless steel D-rings on bow
Two large tow stainless steel D-rings on rear tubes
Gas tank pad for securing the gas tank
Package Includes: aluminum floor, 3 aluminum seats, oars, foot pump, carry bag, and repair kit.
Overall Length: 15.4’
Inside Length: 10.6’
Overall Width: 6.56’
Inside Width: 37”
Tube Diameter: 19.7”
Chambers: 5+1
Maximum Person Capacity: 9 adults
Max Weight Capacity: 2205 lbs
Max Hp: 40 hp
Boat Weight 216 lbs
Floor Design: Aluminum Floor
30 Days money back guarantee.
3 year manufacturer warranty.
All seams are HEAT WELDED for perfect seaming and guaranteed to last in fresh water, salt water and extreme humidity. Most seams are quadruple overlap for maximum strength and durability and will not fall apart.
From the car to the water with ease, no trailer needed for this incredible inflatable angling machine. Fly solo or bring a companion along for a great day on the water with the Sea Eagle Green 375fc Inflatable FoldCat.
Now in a Dark Hunter Green to naturally blend in with the waters and natural habitat, this inflatable pontoon is a lightweight, portable, fuel efficient, large platform fishing boat that packs easily into a car and does not require a trailer!
The Sea Eagle FoldCat features a patented folding system allowing it to be fully assemble in just minutes. When fully inflated, the lightweight aluminum cross boards and under-bars combine to create a solid platform providing a fully accessible and secure deck, ideal for two anglers to stand and cast in all directions.
The full fabric floor with the aluminum cross boards will hold any electric batteries, fishing tackle, tackle boxes or fishing lures you may have, even if you drop them! Best of all this boat comes comfortably equipped with padded 360° swivel seats, oarlocks, and a motor mount which allows you to paddle, motor and fish!
This is one of the most versatile and angler friendly inflatable boats in existence, and a personal favorite here at Rugged Man!
FEATURES & SPECS:
Featuring the versatile universal Scotty Mount System with 2-4 Scotty Rod Holders and the ability to attach an incredible assortment of other Scotty accessories.
Exterior: 12'4" x 4'6"
Weight: 75 lbs. (hull only)
Material: 1000 Denier Reinforced
Seam: Quadruple Overlap Seams
Capacity: 2 Adults or 650 lbs
Inflation & Assembly time: 10 minutes
Inflation Pressure: 3.2 psi
Engine Capacity: 3 hp gas (15" Shaft) or 70 lbs. thrust Electric Motor (45 lbs. max wt.)
Deflated: Approx. 56" x 21" x 10"
Chambers: 4 Air Chambers
Tube Diameter: 16.5"
Air Valves: Recessed One Way
NMMA and CE Certified
Super strong oars & oarlocks
Motormount for gas & electric motors
Rugged molded nose cones
Four conveniently located carry handles
Printed instructions
Here’s a simple, but decent quality, inflatable boat that is another on our list today that’s not going to have a hard-hitting impact on the wallet. We’re talking about the Angler Bay Inflatable Boat by Airhead.
Angler Bay Inflatable Boats are designed to provide you with all of the basic necessities to have a great day on the water with your family.
These lightweight and portable air-vessels come with two rod holders, multiple molded drink holders, a battery storage bag, a ditty bag, and has four drain plugs. For the sake of convenience, this boat is quick to air up to get you out on the water without delay, it has great rod holders, and it’s easy to store.
Equipped with wrap-around grab lines for safety, swiveling oar locks for control, transom mounting fixtures, and side mounted oar holders, the Angler Bay is well-constructed of heavy duty vinyl with electronically welded seams.
However, it is probably the closest thing to a pool toy that we have on the list today, but we’re not trying to put it down. Hell, it made the list! We’re just trying to say that you shouldn’t go looking for a BRIS Inflatable Rescue & Dive here. This is a good little boat. We just want you to be informed.
NOTE:
Some folks claim that three’s company and four’s a crowd for this little ship, but also say that with four people, you may just have to watch how much stuff you’re trying to bring along.
So the six person capacity claim on Amazon is a bit of a stretch, it seems. However, we didn’t see that this was worthy of a disqualification of a good boat for the money, but some clarification is certainly in order here.
Airhead’s website actually does clarify, on this boat, a three person capacity. You’ll just have to take a good look and see if this is the right size boat for you and yours.
Also, let’s be clear here, THESE ARE NOT MADE FOR BIG ROUGH WATERS! However, they are IDEAL for small to mid-sized lakes and slow-moving streams and they’re a perfect raft for outdoor adventures with the kids. Having said that, the tall walls and multiple cells do provide a sense of safety and control.
All in all, we think the Angler Bay Inflatable Boat is well worth the less than $200 price tag. Just like anything, it has its limitations and you’re not going to get the performance of some of the high-end boats on our list today.
For a great relaxing day on the water, making lasting memories, and some quality time fishing with the kids, it’s hard to beat this boat for the price.
FEATURES & SPECS:
Deflated: 96'“ x 54”
Material: Heavy Gauge K80 PVC
Max Capacity: 3 Riders
Lightweight, portable and ideal for small to mid-sized lakes and slow moving streams
2 Rod Holders
Molded drink holders
Wrap-around grab lines
Swiveling oar locks
Compatible with Airhead Trolling Motor Transom (AHIBT-1)
Side mounted oar holders
4 drain plugs
Battery storage bag
Includes an inflatable floor and a movable seat
Constructed of heavy duty vinyl with electronically welded seams
“Fishing is much more than fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers.”
—Herbert Hoover
No matter what your purpose for being interested in making the ever-growing popular switch to inflatable boating, we hope that this article has been helpful to you in making a well-informed and good sound decision. We hope, at a minimum, this got your gears turning and gave you an idea of what to look for in a good quality inflatable boat.
Inflatable boats are a wonderful way for folks to be able to get themselves and their loved ones out on the water without having to put unnecessary strain and pressure on their lives by spending a lot of money or going into debt.
We here at Rugged Man are all about sensible prepping and self-reliance and think that a good inflatable boat is a fantastic prepping item and opens up a whole new world of possibilities with all of its practical uses and advantages. Having one these in your preps could come in handy more than you may think one day. After all, it wouldn’t be the first time you’ve been caught off guard, now would it?!
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