Are you planning to beat the summer heat and catch some fish? If yes, then consider buying a top pontoon boat that is specifically designed to allow you to lounge around and do some fishing. Modern pontoon boats are designed with more space and are more comfortable than their predecessors. They also come in various designs making it very difficult for inexperienced anglers to choose the right kind of pontoon boat. This guide intends to make things easier for you. It reviews the top pontoon you could get on the market today.
Among the features, one should consider when choosing these vessels include the seat, comfort ability, the body type, and the frame. You also need to look at other aspects such as the storage, the design, and many other features that anglers look for in pontoon boats. This is a comprehensive review that includes the most pertinent information to help you make an informed decision when choosing an inflatable pontoon boat.
Table of Contents
- Top Pontoon Boats for 2018
- Pontoon Boats Review
- 1. Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat
- 2. Sea Eagle 375FC (The Fold Cat)
- 3. Classic Accessories Colorado Boat
- 4. Sea Eagle 285fpb Pontoon Boat
- 5. The Classic Accessories Roanoke Inflatable Boat
- 6. Cumberland Inflatable Fishing Tube
- 7. Togiak Pontoon Float Tube
- 8. Sea Eagle Frameless Pontoon Boat
- 9. Skagit Inflatable Pontoon Boat
- Pontoon Boats Features
Top Pontoon Boats for 2018
Product Image | Product Name | Dimensions (Inches) | Weight Capacity (lbs) | Weight (Pounds) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat | 108 x 18 x 24 | 400 | 105 | |
 | Sea Eagle 375FC (The Fold Cat) | 53 x 17 x 11 | 650 | 157 | |
 | Classic Accessories Colorado Boat | 108 x 26 x 56 | 400 | 71.5 | |
 | Sea Eagle 285fpb Pontoon Boat | 20 x 20 x 8 | 450 | 42 | |
 | The Classic Accessories Roanoke Inflatable Boat | 96 x 55 x 29 | 350 | 43 | |
 | Cumberland Inflatable Fishing Tube | 56 x 44 x 19 | 350 | 14 | |
 | Togiak Pontoon Float Tube | 54.2 x 47 x 19 | 300 | 12.5 | |
 | Sea Eagle Frameless Pontoon Boat | 20 x 20 x 20 | 450 | 30 | |
 | Skagit Inflatable Pontoon Boat | 50 x 26.5 x 96 | 350 | 62 |
Pontoon Boats Review
1. Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat
The boat is 9 ft. and has a capacity of 400lb. It features a detachable storage bag, 20 pockets, and two drink holders. The boat has a built-in transport wheel that makes moving quite convenient. It is made of heavy duty material and comes with other notable features such as retention cord, multi-position rod holder, and an adjustable cushioned seat.
Also, the boat comes with a mesh bag that allows the angler to set his anchor on the side of the boat. It is a top quality one-man boat designed to provide the angler with the best water experience. It comes with attractive features that anglers look for in pontoon boats.
TheColorado XT boat can carry a maximum weight of 400 pounds including the motor and the battery. The box dimension is 47.5 inches long, 24.25 inches wide and 15. 75 inches high. The unit is 9 feet long and comes in a combination of pumpkin and sage colors. The original purchase of this unit gets a 2-year warranty.
Performance on Water
The boat performs superbly well on water, it is smooth and paddling it is relatively smooth because its seating position is raised.
The boat comes with bolts, which are fixed on the steel frame and a foot rest that is strategically located to help the angler generate more power when needed. The units paddles are nicely fitted and will rotate back from their position giving the angler more power to paddle it.
Features:
PROS
CONS
2. Sea Eagle 375FC (The Fold Cat)
This is a fold cat boat, which is also one of the top rated pontoon boats that can be used for fishing activities by anyone interested in quality fishing.
It features a patent pending frame that folds quickly and weighs 75 lbs. The boat can accommodate two people and has a maximum capacity of 650 lb. The boat consists of 1000 denier hull, which comes with a carrying bag and a foot pump.
The Fold Cat is well thought out and designed to maximize the anglers experience. It is compatible with a 3 HP gas engine and has a speed of 8 knots. It features built in rod holders and measures 148'' by 54''.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the inflatableFold Cat is stable and can be powered by motoring or rowing. It is the most portable inflatable you can get on the market.
Features:
PROS
If you are looking for a boat that is stable and whose ergonomics makes casting and rowing easy, the Sea Eagle FoldCat is, certainly, one of the options you have. It is a large water craft when inflated but can be packaged and taken to any of the fishing locations. The FoldCat allows one to attach a sizeable motor to it and can be used in varying fishing grounds.
This is a brand new FoldCat 375 that gives the anglers a fishing vessel that will make them get on the water and start fishing. It is stable and easy to set up. It is loaded with features that make it useful to both experienced and novice anglers.
In constructing the boat, Sea Eagle uses aluminum flooring and a support system, designed to enables the angler to set up and inflate the unit in minutes. The support grid is sturdy and allows one to attach the rod holders, seat and other accessories. The FoldCat375 FC uses a thick and durable inflatable hull that enables the watercraft to keep tracking straight.
3. Classic Accessories Colorado Boat
The inflatable boat comes with insulated drink holders and 20 storage pockets. It has a capacity of 400lb and can adequately meet the demand of heavy users.
The units mount is weather resistant and allows one to have the rod holder set in various positions.
The boat comes with adjustable seat and foot rest as well padded plastics that add convenience. It also comes with quick combo valves and can easily be assembled even without tools. It comes with bladders that are resistant to heat and cold and comes with a 1-year warranty.
Features:
PROS
CONS
Even though this unit is not of high quality compared to other inflatable pontoon boats, it is one of the boats that is convenient and gives the paddler a lot of fun. The inflatable can be used in lakes, calm rivers, ponds and calm ocean bays. The unit is stable and comes with features that make it stand out from the rest. It comes with an anchor system that allows you to fish freely in moving water.
Notice that Colorado pontoon is one of the cheapest options for anyone looking for an affordable and lowly priced boat. It has strong PVC bottom that is abrasion resistant and is made from tough steel tube frame. It also features heat resistant bladders and good quality valves. The boat is of good quality and the best for anyone looking for a recreational boat. It is easy to set up and comes with 2 year warranty.
It can be used to fish in flat water, but one can access remote locations if it is fitted with a trolling motor. Overall, it is a great option for anyone who wants for a convenient and portable cheap fishing vessel.
4. Sea Eagle 285fpb Pontoon Boat
The boat is lightweight, portable, built and constructed for rugged use. It can accommodate one person and has a capacity of 450 lbs. It is one of the lightest boats on the market, which weighs 42 lbs.
When fully inflated, it becomes 9 foot long but can easily fit in a bag when deflated. The boat's hull is made of solid materials that guarantee durability.
This boat comes with an optional swivel seat that gives the angler a 360-degree swivel capability. Its floor is made of wood, and this gives the angler a greater casting capability. The boat is versatile and can be used in lakes, rivers, and saltwater.
This is a frameless pontoon designed and build to meet the angler's needs. It exhibits qualities associated with Sea Eagles brand name. The unit is convenient, top in quality and gives the anglers what they look for in inflatables. It is light to carry yet it exhibits the qualities you need to face and handle whatever that may run under the water.
It has enough space and capacity that makes it ideal for beginners and experienced anglers. The unit can be rowed, paddled or powered using an electric motor. This means that you can take the unit anywhere and use it. It comes with a floor that is stable and which can stand and accommodate a wide range of fishing products. It makes this boat a great asset for anglers.
Features:
PROS
The 285fpb has become more popular since it is impressive and is a perfect tool if you are planning to go fishing in areas that cannot be accessed using boats. Also, it can be used in any water ranging from fresh to salt water. This gives the anglers the freedom to fish anywhere whenever they want.
5. The Classic Accessories Roanoke Inflatable Boat
It is built for flexibility and reliability. It is one of the modern pontoon boats that is 8 ft. long, has a capacity of 350lbs and enjoys a class 1 river rating. The boat comes with unique features such as adjustable foot rest, storage and folds down plastic seats.
It comes with an armrest where you can put items and accessories. It also comes with temperature resistant bladders. With steel frame that is extra durable thanks to the powder coating. The boat is lightweight and is easy to operate.
The unit is small but has plenty of storage spaces where smaller fishing gears can be stored. It also features a mesh platform where you can store your newly caught fish.
The unit's bottom is made of a heavy duty PVC which is abrasion resistant and allows the angler to scrap against rough surfaces without the risk of puncturing the bladders. The unit's top is made of a tough nylon and features bladders that are temperature resistant.
Features:
PROS
CONS
The Roanoke Inflatable Boat is cheap and makes a great choice for anyone looking for a portable fishing pontoon. It is lightweight, durable and costs less. The unit features aluminum oars and a powder coated frame. It comes with special features such as stripping apron, storage seat, anadjustable foot rest and armrest pockets with zippers The aluminum oars makes it a highly maneuverable and can easily be transported.
6. Cumberland Inflatable Fishing Tube
This boat finds itself on the list of the best pontoon boat because it is durable and has high seat and float tubes that make it visible and ideal for anyone considering warm fishing.
There is a hydrodynamic unit that can easily be steered, and which comes with adjustable shoulder straps. The unit features a reinforced bottom and a mesh platform that provides plenty of storage. It also comes with a mesh stuff pocket, zip pocket as well as insulated drink holders.
Features:
PROS
CONS
It is one of the inflatable floats that any of the serious anglers would love to own and use. It is comfortable and performs well in water. Anyone who buys this unit is guaranteed to enjoy the best of his time in the water.
7. Togiak Pontoon Float Tube
This tube was designed for individuals looking for a float tube that is suitable to help people relax. It is a good pontoon boat that can be used for fishing. It is lightweight and measures 12 lbs. Setting this float tube is easy and will take you a few units.
It features an adjustable back rest seat. The unit comes with a gear and spinning reel pocket and so you have no reason to worry where you will put your fishing gear or drinks.
It comes with a high seat that provides the much-needed visibility and is built for long term use. The Togiak Pontoon Float Tube is reputed for its adjustable backrest is lightweight and allows for backpacking. This makes it an ideal and a nice float tube for recreation and fishing.
Features:
PROS
CONS
8. Sea Eagle Frameless Pontoon Boat
It is also called the Sea Eagle 285 and is thought to be one of the best fishing boats that have been manufactured by Sea Eagle. The unit has a capacity of 450 lbs., is compact and can easily be placed in a bag and transported. It comes with a couple of Scotty rod holder, a floorboard, and a swivel seat.
It is an ideal boat for fishermen since it has a capacity of 45 lbs. and comes with a three-year warranty. The unit has 3 HP and is made of fortified 1000Denier. It can be assembled within 5 minutes and can suitably be deployed in lakes, rivers or any other bodies of water.
The unit is 9' long and 4' wide. The Frameless Pontoon Boat has an engine capacity of 3 HP and can manage a speed of 5-7 mph on gas and 3-4 mph on an electrical motor. The unit comes with an inflatable seat, 2-rod holders, a pouch, a clip-on bow and a repair kit.
This is a frameless pontoon from Sea Eagle designed for fishing purposes. It is a frameless boat that is easy to set and deflate. It is a small boat with no parts to assemble and can easily be transported. Also, the boat can easily be moved around by placing it in a trunk of your car or an RV.
It can also be transported on an aircraft or a larger watercraft. The boat weighs 42 lbs. and was designed to be used in lakes in ocean bays wilderness, rivers, and remote ponds. It can suitably be deployed in a fishing spot that is not accessible to a large boat. The frameless Pontoon can be powered by being paddled or using a gas or electric motor.
Features:
PROS
CONS
If you are an angler looking for a boat that stands out from the crowed, the 285 Frameless Pontoon is one of the options you should consider. It is highly stable and guarantees you a stable ride. The boat has a wooden floorboard that gives it the stability an angler requires when in water. It comes with a deck mount and a soft-latching strap.
9. Skagit Inflatable Pontoon Boat
It is one of the boats that features a Skagit, which is a rear platform that boosts its capacity. The boat measures 96"L X 50"W X 26.5"H and has a capacity 350 lb. The boat weighs 62 lbs. With footrest and seat mount that could be adjusted to a wide range of length.
It is one of the most recommended boats for anyone planning to go out to fish. The boat is built with a durable nylon top, has an abrasion proof PVC bottom and a spacious armrest pocket.
It comes with two drink holders, 10 mesh pockets, and several zipper pockets. The Skagit comes with a ruler and a stripping apron. It comes with a footrest that is fully adjustable and non-slip. It also comes with easy to use inflation and deflation valves.
Features:
Pontoon Boats Features
There are several critical factors that one should always put in mind when planning to buy a pontoon boat. Thus, it is not right to just focus on the cost and the capacity at the expense of other factors that matter. Even though, the cost and the capacity are the two important factors that one should factor in his plans.
Note that at a glance all pontoon boats may look alike. However, they are different and therefore it is necessary that you differentiate between the great pontoons and mediocre ones. This review intends to simplify things for you and has picked on important items that you should consider when you go out to buy a boat. The information will help you learn more about the types available and will help you familiarize yourself with the available models.
- Float Tube Vs Pontoon Boat
Even though the terms may be used interchangeably, the two do not refer to the same thing. Typically, the pontoon boats are relatively larger and are more powerful than float tubes.
- Heavy Duty Pontoon
These boats can be used in rivers even though it can comfortably be used in lakes. As such, it is recommended that you choose heavy duty boat if you are planning to go fishing in rivers. Notice that float tubes cannot be used to fish in rivers. In fact, this is what brings out the difference between the pontoon boats and float tubes.
- Fiberglass Pontoon Boats
These are pontoon boats made of fiberglass materials which make them light weight and durable. Unfortunately, repairing these materials could be costly compared to repairing boats made of other materials.
- Foam
It is critical to remember that a lot of pontoon boats are made of foam that gives them a solid fill that is not susceptible to leaking.
All boats that are filled with foam are cheap, but they are slower and consume a lot of fuel. Also, repairing them may be as difficult as repairing the fiberglass. In most cases, one may require professional assistance.
- Inflatable
They are the most popular pontoons on the market. They can be inflated and deployed to use. This makes them ideal for many anglers. They can be deflated and carried in the backpack with ease. The boats are available in different sizes and capacity hence they can be deployed in several fishing locations.
- Aluminum
These are boats with aluminum which is known for its anti-corrosive properties. The boats do not deteriorate even when exposed to moisture. They are lightweight and easy to fix compared to other types of pontoon boats.
However, aluminum made boats have their drawbacks. They rust easily if they are submerged in sand and mud. The pontoons cost more and may not be ideal for anglers operating on a tight budget. However, the boats are widely available are easy to set and have a generous capacity. So if you are an angler and you are planning to use any one of the pontoons discussed above, you have a wide option to choose from.
- Top Manufacturers
We have many manufacturers of pontoon models. However, the following are considered the best of all.
- Classic Accessories
The manufacturer is reputed for producing quality float tubes and boats. They manufacture different pontoon boats that serve the needs of various customers.
- Sea Eagle
This manufacturer is known for producing lightweight fishing boats that are not only stable but which can be deployed and used in different situations. They manufacture boats that are durable and which can withstand rough terrains including being used in rivers.
Sea eagle and Classic accessories are portable, lightweight and can suitably be deployed for fishing in the lakes and other locations. They are well-known brands that guarantee you quality products.
So what the most important things to consider when choosing a Pontoon boat?
- Weight
Selecting a float tube that is lighter is better because it allows you to bring other gears as well. However, you need to ensure that the boat is both light weights and made of durable material.
In the modern times, it is possible to get quality inflatable pontoon boats which can easily be put in your backpack and transported. Inflatable types are considered the best because they weigh less but can support hundreds of pounds when inflated.
Also, choosing pontoons made of quality materials that are resistant to abrasion coated metal frames and heavy duty materials is recommended.- Capacity
A boat that can carry a minimum of 300 lbs. or 450 lbs. is recommended. Typically, those that are designed for two people should carry a maximum capacity of 650 lbs. However, it is important to remember that packing your pontoon to the maximum capacity may affect the boat performance. If you repeatedly pack it to the maximum capacity, you will be forcing it to work harder, and this may have long term effect on its motor.
- Backrest
A pontoon that is well made has an adjustable back rest which allows the angler many hours of fishing without getting fatigued. It ensures that the angler is as comfortable as possible during the many hours they may spend fishing. Also, check out the footrest. It should be adjustable and comfortable.
- Pockets and Storage
A good pontoon boat must come with several storage compartments and pockets. It should have both mesh pockets and zippered pockets as well as a rear storage. If you are going to use it for fishing the storage and the pockets come in handy and can help to reduce the items one has to carry in the bag. However, if you are not the type that carries many gears, the additional pockets may be of no use. Just ensure that your pontoon has a fishing rod holder and that it is conveniently set.
Notice that most manufacturers make a big deal out of the storage and pockets. This implies that the two are important especially in cases where one will be fishing for an extended period.- Motor Mount
The fishing pontoon boats should come with a mount that allows the angler to install an electric or a gas motor. Some research must be done before the right size is arrived at.
Final Words
So far, I believe you are better placed to buy a pontoon that is right for you. We have shed light on many types of pontoons and thus, if you are interested in a float tube that you can easily pack and carry around, then you can choose from the following top manufacturers: Cumberland, Classic Accessories, and Roanoke.
If you are more concerned with durability, or you are looking for anything that accepts a gas motor, then you may have to choose any of the products from Sea Eagle. The products come in a variety of versions and load capacity giving you a variety of options to choose from. The 285FB are preferred because they are adjustable and stable. Picking one from Classic Accessories Cumberland is recommended because the product is well padded, convenient and could offer you the service you may be looking for.
Related Posts:
