10 Best Inflatable Fishing Boats (Complete Guide)

Last updated:

Gone are the days when inflatable boats were associated with small red and white safety boats that would topple over on the slightest tumble.

These days inflatable fishing boats have become quite innovative and advanced.

They come packed with all the necessary quirks and features that are available on a rigid hull fishing vessel.

These inflatable vessels offer the same functionality and performance as their much more expensive counterparts at a fraction of the price and high portability.

The price point makes these inflatable fishing kayaks a great option for anglers that want a vessel that can go into shallow waters and inland waterways that are not accessible in a larger vessel.

If you are looking for a new inflatable fishing boat for your fishing expeditions you have come to the right place.

Down below is a list of the best inflatable boats that are available on the market right now!

At A Glance

Top 10 Inflatable Fishing Boats of 2022

1) Sea Eagle FSK16 FishSkiff16 Inflatable Boat

Sea Eagle FSK16 FishSkiff16 Inflatable Boat.jpg

Sea Eagle is a well-known name when it comes to inflatable fishing boats.

The Long Island-based company offers a wide range of inflatable boats and one of them is the Sea Eagle FishSkiff16.

The Sea Eagle FSK16 is a frameless boat designed for two individuals, it incorporates two swivel seats that give you an unobstructed 360-degree view.

That boat also has ample space for your equipment or a cooler.

The Sea Eagle FSK16 is designed in a way that the hull cuts through the water with maximum speed with improved handling and stability.

Moreover, it provides great fuel efficiency so you do not have to worry about spending large amounts of money when you go offshore.

Pros

  • Great build
  • Includes canopy
  • Drop-stitch flooring
  • Paddle included
  • D-rings and other mounting options
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Limited capacity (3 people)

The Sea Eagle FSK 16 is a highly durable and robust inflatable boat.

It offers great utility making it one of the best inflatable boats out there on the market.

The boat is designed keeping in mind that it should reduce the cost of fishing for the buyer but also provide all the necessary quirks and features that are available in a rigid hull setup.

The boat is made up of 1000 denier reinforced drop stitch seam and has a weight capacity of 1,765 lbs.

The swivel seat offers comfort to the angler throughout the day with its cushioning and 360 views.

It can be equipped with a 10 horsepower engine, with a top speed of 21.5 mph.

The minimal draft and near-zero drag give the Sea Eagle FSK 16 a high fuel efficiency of 30 mpg.

It also has a trolling motor mount system to easily attach a bow-mounted trolling motor.

The three independent large air-filled chambers make it extremely safe because if one of them fails the other two can keep the boat from sinking.

These inflatable boats also come with Scotty pads at the bow and stern locations.

You can use these to customize your boat with a vast variety of fishing accessories such as the Scotty anchor system.

If you happen to fish in regions with hotter climates the Sea Eagle FSK16 also has a canopy option.

The canopy will not only keep you from getting sunburned but also helps in slowing down strong wind drafts.

In short, the Sea Eagle FSK16 is an excellent inflatable boat that offers all the necessary quirks and features.

2) Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat

Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat.jpg

The Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat is a one-person high capacity pontoon boat that allows easy transport and access to your fishing spots.

These inflatable pontoon fishing boats have an array of features that make them highly utilitarian.

With a maximum capacity of 400lbs, it is a great option for anglers who want to spend their time fishing alone.

The boat comes with a 2-position mount for trolling motor so you can give your bait/lures the proper presentation.

This pontoon boat offers great useability and value when compared to other pontoon boats of similar size.

Pros

  • Plenty of storage
  • Insulated drink holders
  • Oarlocks
  • Two aluminum oars included
  • Very portable

Cons

  • Limited weight capacity

The Classic Accessories Colorado XT is on our best list because of its great value.

This pontoon boat comes loaded with an array of features that can be used to keep your fishing accessories.

The removable stripping basket, gear bags, and removable side pockets can act as a gear bag for your belongings.

The rear wire storage is another great feature to keep your belongings secure.

The inflatable boat also has a battery platform.

Another great feature is that these pontoon boats come with rod holders that can be adjusted in 3 directions.

The easy anchor system with a fillable mesh bag, cleat, and pulley controls keep you from drifting away.

The abrasion-resistant PVC underside of Colorado XT and Class 1 river rating, with a steel tube frame that is powder-coated, makes it the perfect choice for saltwater fishing.

There’s also a transport wheel that gives you an additional way of getting out of the water.

Although the maximum capacity is on the lower end, it is still more than enough.

The boat also comes with oarlocks that come in handy when securing the oars.

The detachable padded seat makes all-day angling very comfortable.

Classic Accessories Colorado XT pontoon boat is one of the best affordable inflatable pontoon boats out there.

It is a great choice for anglers fishing in shallow backwaters who are willing to paddle the boat with oars.

Moreover, this pontoon boat type is quite spacious and you can mount a trolling motor too.

In short, if you want an affordable inflatable pontoon boat this will be the right choice for you.

3) Intex Mariner Inflatable Boat Set Series

Intex Mariner Inflatable Boat Set Series.jpg

The Intex Mariner is an inflatable boat that offers versatility and a comfortable experience to anglers fishing in a group of 3 or 4.

These inflatable boats can perform all the tasks that are required of an angler while being easy to use.

It is a great option for individuals who occasionally go offshore and want to relax on the water.

Not only is it great for relaxing but it is also a fishing boat that can be used specifically for your fishing adventures.

The boat comes with multiple inflation valves that help in cutting down inflation time and when going back home after a long day of fishing you can pop them open to deflate it quickly.

The Intex Mariner offers a variety of features that come in handy when you are offshore.

Pros

  • Lightweight Design
  • Two-rod holders
  • Comfortable seating
  • Robust Design Philosophy
  • Storage Pouches

Cons

  • Difficult To Navigate In Extreme Weather Conditions
  • No Motor With Boat

In our list of best inflatable fishing boats, we have included the Intex mariner because of its great design and ease of use.

The Intex Mariner does not require you to be a kayaking expert.

The long and wide design of this inflatable boat allows it to remain stable even with 4 individuals on it.

Its floor is made up of heavy-duty plastic, making it a great option for individuals who have heavy gear.

The PVC exterior has three separate layers giving your boat the strength and flexibility you’ll need for many years of boating.

The boat comes with a maximum load capacity of 880 lbs, therefore it might struggle with the fourth adult.

It has two built-in fishing rod holders and it comes with a set of 54” aluminum oars.

You also have rotating oar locks on your boat so that you’ll have your boat moving under your power in no time.

This inflatable boat also comes with a variety of mods that can be installed according to your preferences.

You can choose between a sunroof or a canopy if you want to protect yourself from UV rays.

A sunroof is lighter as compared to a canopy so it will draw down to your needs.

You can also install a 3hp trolling motor to your Intex Mariner, this way you can easily move around without having to paddle every time.

You can also add a swivel seat in case you do not like the inflatable seats, that will allow you to have better viewing.

The Intex Mariner is a great option for people who are looking for an easy-to-use inflatable boat with a capacity to hold 3 to 4 individuals.

4) Inflatable Sport Boats Swordfish SB-330A Dinghy

Inflatable Sport Boats Swordfish SB 330A Dinghy.jpg.

The Swordfish SB-330 is an inflatable fishing dinghy with a sleek and elegant design that offers excellent stability and higher weight capacity.

The inflatable fishing dinghy also has the capacity to install larger motors on its heavy-duty motor mount.

The extended rear pontoons and transom provide added stability to this dinghy which allows smoother sailing on the water.

The seams of this inflatable dinghy are heat welded, which allows it to be used in both freshwater and saltwater conditions

With its robust design, you can use this dinghy in all kinds of weather conditions and make it back safe and secure.

Drop-stitch air flooring is also reversible, leading to multiple design options.

Pros

  • Rugged Design
  • Aesthetically Pleasing
  • Heat-Welded Seams
  • Made For All Conditions
  • Front-towing rings
  • Oar Locks
  • Fits up to 15HP motor

Cons

  • Expensive Compared to other similar options

The inflatable sports boat dinghy has made it to our list of best inflatable kayaks because of its super stable sleek design and the capacity to install a large motor.

The boat is constructed with 1,100 denier reinforced PVC material, which makes the boat incredibly strong.

Waterproofing is also next level from the UV and oil stain approved by the United States Coast guard.

The inflatable dinghy is easy to deploy because it can be inflated within 10 minutes with its portable, quick inflating system.

It can easily take 5 individuals offshore without any decline in handling or stability.

This inflatable dinghy has two-front towing d-rings that can be used for towing or securing the boat.

Although this boat is a little expensive as compared to other similar options it offers great utility.

Plus it has a design that is aesthetically pleasing and looks modern.

The teak floor adds a personalized touch to the boat.

It is extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver, moreover, it gets up on a plane quickly because it can be added with a 15 hp motor.

In conclusion, if you are searching the inflatable boats market for a suitable choice this inflatable fishing dinghy will be your best bet.

5) Newport Vessels 20M1000017 8-Feet 10-Inch Dana Inflatable Sport Tender Dinghy Boat

Newport Vessels 20M1000017 8-Feet 10-Inch Dana Inflatable Sport Tender Dinghy Boat.jpg

The Newport Vessels Inflatable Sport Tender Dinghy Boat is a top-of-the-line inflatable kayak option for you.

The boat offers an all-in-one solution for fishing, racing, and cruising on the water.

These inflatable boats offer great stability and quickly take off because of their inflatable tail tubes.

Moreover, the inflatable keel makes handling and steering a lot easier.

The boat is user-friendly and compact and requires a maximum of 10-12 minutes to assemble or disassemble.

Pros

  • Durable PVC
  • Strong Build
  • Stability On Higher Speeds
  • Bench Seats

Cons

  • Floor Can Be Thicker

The Newport Vessels Inflatable dinghy is one of the best inflatable boats for high-speed cruising on the water.

This inflatable boat can remain stable at high speeds and offers excellent maneuverability.

The boat comes with 4 independent air chambers that can keep your dinghy from capsizing in case one of them fails.

The PVC lining on the exterior can handle abrasions so you do not need to worry about hitting your boat into rocks or trees.

The Halkey-Roberts valve systems on these boats allow easy inflation and deflation.

The inflatable keel is V-shaped which aids in maneuvering and handling.

The side tubes on this boat are massive and give this dinghy a footprint that is larger than other similar boats at a similar price point.

However, this large size makes it smooth and gentle at higher speeds.

What makes this dinghy stand out is that it is compatible with an electric trolling motor, so it is a great eco-friendly option.

It is compatible with a trolling motor of 3-20hp.

The only concern for some people will be the limited space on this dinghy.

Although it can easily accommodate 2 full-size adults, it can be difficult to fit their fishing gear on it.

If you go with an electric motor you will find it difficult to house its battery on the dinghy due to limited space.

But if we consider other similarly priced options, this dinghy offers the best features.

The after-sales services provided by Newport Vessels are excellent therefore maintaining your boat for years to come will be quite easy.

This inflatable dinghy is a great option for anglers that want an inflatable kayak that can operate at high speeds with excellent stability.

6) Intex Seahawk Inflatable  Boat

Intex Seahawk Inflatable Boat.jpg

The Intex Seahawk Inflatable Fishing Boat is a budget option offered by Intex without compromising on quality.

Most customers will have to maintain this inflatable fishing boat regularly but given its price point and the convenience to carry it, it is a great option.

This fishing boat is built using heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl.

It is an excellent performer on calmer waters but some users have also used it with high thrust motors without experiencing any difficulty.

The inflatable I-beam floor provides extra rigidity and the three air chambers keep the boat from capsizing.

Pros

  • Easy To Maneuver
  • High-Grade PVC
  • Suitable for up to three people.
  • Gear pouch for storage.
  • Two-rod holders.
  • Grab lines for safety.
  • 4 Rotational oar locks.

Cons

  • It’s not going to be the most durable boat out there.

The Intex Seahawk inflatable fishing boat is a great option for anglers who fish occasionally but want a boat that can be used at any moment.

Most Seahawk users tend to keep their boats in their car trunks because of their compact and lightweight design when deflated.

With a weight capacity of 790lbs users can accommodate upto 3 individuals on this.

You can use Tear Aid B and Air Stop to fix any leaks that occur over time.

Moreover, you might find that the floor of this inflatable boat is too soft but you can add ¾ inch of plywood floor to the boat.

This way you will not only be able to stand over the floor and walk around but you will be able to cast your rods more efficiently.

It will also increase the storage space on your boat because your fishing gear and belongings will not roll around the floor.

Inflating the boat using the hand pump that comes in the box is quite easy but we will recommend you to use a rechargeable air pump because if you plan to use this inflatable boat for a day, you will need to refill the boat from time to time.

Since this fishing boat sits over the surface of the water you will find it easy to maneuver it around using oars.

However, you can also use its motor mounts to equip it with a motor of your choice.

This fishing boat is perfect for your next offshore journey due to its easy maintenance and low price point.

7) Sea Eagle 375fc Inflatable FoldCat Fishing Boat

Sea Eagle 375fc Inflatable FoldCat Fishing Boat.jpg

The Sea Eagle 375fc Inflatable FoldCat is an inflatable pontoon boat that is extremely innovative.

The two inflatable pontoons on this sea eagle are made from 1000 Denier reinforced materials, with quadruple overlap seams.

This makes it highly durable and robust in terms of long-term use and performance.

Its versatility and utility are similar to other inflatable fishing pontoon boats at this price point.

However, its standout feature is the patented folding frame design that gives it a sturdy platform without the need for nuts and bolts.

This folding frame design also helps in reducing the time needed to inflate this raft and get it ready for the water.

At maximum, you will need around 5 minutes to get this ready, plus you can easily set it up without any effort.

Pros

  • Solid, durable, and reliable construction.
  • High Stability on the water.
  • Transom motor mount.
  • 360-degree swivel seats
  • Raised oarlocks.
  • Four fishing rod holders and mounts.
  • Highly portable.

Cons

  • Might Require a little time to understand its working
  • Not for rapids and whitewater

The Sea Eagle 375 has made it to our list of top inflatable pontoon boats because of its portability and quick setup.

The boat comes with a variety of features that make it stand out among other options.

This boat can be powered by a 3hp gas trolling motor or a 70 lbs thrust electric trolling motor.

The motor mount of these inflatable boats can handle a maximum weight of 45 lbs.

The boat comes equipped with raised oar locks and 4 Scotty fishing rod holders.

Moreover, the 360-degree swivel seat is designed to be extremely comfortable for a long day.

The raised casting bar offers great utility when it comes to securing your casts and reels.

The Sea Eagle 375fc is a great alternative to conventionally designed rafts, inflatable dinghies, and inflatable kayaks.

It offers increased stability and handling while being highly utilitarian.

However, users can find it difficult to set it up on their own.

This inflatable boat can become too heavy when equipped with a trolling motor and other features.

Nonetheless, Sea Eagle 375fc is a great inflatable boat option and you should consider it when looking for an inflatable boat.

8) Stealth Stalker 10 Inflatable Fishing Boat

Stealth Stalker 10 Inflatable Fishing Boat.jpg

The Stealth Stalker 10 inflatable fishing boats are a great offering by Sea Eagle.

These inflatable fishing boats offer high durability while being extremely lightweight.

The load capacity of these inflatable boats is around 1200 lbs therefore they are the only option that can truly seat 4 persons.

This high load capacity is attained due to the oversized air chambers on these inflatable boats.

These inflatable fishing boats can be equipped with a 4hp gas trolling motor or a 74 lb. thrust electric motor.

And the maximum load capacity of the motor mount is 20 kilos.

However, what makes this inflatable boat stand out is its frameless design.

The frameless design helps in easier transportation because this fishing boat can be deflated and reduced into a package that is no bigger than a sleeping bag.

Pros

  • Durable and lightweight.
  • Raised oar locks.
  • Two open/close floor drains.
  • Carry handles.
  • Swivel seats

Cons

  • Expensive Depending On The Load Capacity You Choose

The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker is on our list of best inflatable fishing kayaks because of its frameless design and easy portability.

The boat is extremely stable and sturdy, due to its oversized air chambers.

They allow it to venture into shallower waters where other similar boats cannot go.

The wooden floorboard option can give your boat a rigid floor so you will not have to let your fishing gear tumble around.

The frameless design gives its deflated form flexibility and you will be able to store it without any difficulty.

With plenty of fishing features such as Scotty fishing pole holders, fish rulers, and four fishing rod holders it also has the necessary gimmicks.

You can also install a canopy on this inflatable fishing boat.

In short, you can mod this boat according to your preferences, if you are lucky you can even find a suitable bundle package that has also the quirks you need.

The stealth stalker is a versatile inflatable fishing boat that comes with a frameless design making it best for people who want to save storage space.

9) 375fc FoldCat Inflatable Fishing Boat

375fc FoldCat Inflatable Fishing Boat.jpg

The 375fc is an inflatable fishing boat that is offered in a variety of color combinations and has large pontoons that keep it afloat and provide added stability.

It is a good option for anglers that are looking for a new inflatable boat.

Its versatility and utility are similar to other inflatable fishing pontoon boats at this price point.

However, its standout feature is the patented folding frame design that gives it a sturdy platform without the need for nuts and bolts.

You can quickly get this raft ready for the water because of its folding frame design.

Pros

  • 360-degree swivel seats
  • Raised oarlocks.
  • Four fishing rod holders and mounts.
  • Highly portable.
  • Solid, durable, and reliable construction.
  • High Stability on the water.
  • Transom motor mount.

Cons

  • Might Require a little time to understand its working
  • Not for rapids and whitewater

The Sea Eagle 375 has made it to our list of top inflatable pontoon boats because of its portability and quick setup.

The fishing boat comes with a variety of features that make it stand out among other options.

This fishing boat can be powered by a gas or electric motor and its motor mount has a load-carrying capacity of 20 kilos.

The two inflatable pontoons on this sea eagle are made from 1000 Denier reinforced materials, with quadruple overlap seams.

This makes it highly durable and robust in terms of long-term use and performance.

The boat comes equipped with raised oar locks and 4 Scotty fishing rod holders.

The rod holder can be used to secure your rod so you can have a look at other operations on your inflatable watercraft.

Most inflatable boats do not come with swivel seats, or if they have swivel seats they are not comfortable.

The 375fc has swivel seats that are designed for comfort and day-long seating.

The raised casting bar offers great utility when it comes to securing your casts and reels.

The boat is easy to set up and take down and very versatile for different waters.

It offers increased stability and handling while being highly utilitarian.

The 375fc has become a popular choice among older anglers and they find it to be highly utilitarian as well as innovative.

10) 10′ Heavy-Duty Fishing Boat

10' Heavy-Duty Fishing Boat.jpg

The 10’ Heavy-Duty Saturn Fishing Boat is one of the toughest inflatable boats out there on the market.

It is a perfect fit for enthusiast anglers that are into some serious fishing and want the best equipment at their disposal.

Although this particular series also comes in a 15-foot size, this 10-foot model is a more popular choice due to its compactness.

However, the smaller size does not compromise on its fishing features and comes with all the quirks that are expected from a heavy-duty boat.

These inflatable fishing boats are designed with one thing in mind – that they must survive every kind of beating and abuse.

It is best for fishing but you can also use it for other water activities.

It stands out among its competitors because it is a premium option that is feature-laden and made for all kinds of water conditions.

Pros

  • Loads of quality features
  • Tough and robust
  • Keel Protector
  • Repair kit, oars, pump included in the package
  • Splash Guards
  • Motor Mount Detachment
  • Oar Holders
  • Anchor rope

Cons

  • Expensive Option as compared to others on this list
  • Heavier than other inflatable boats

The 10’ Heavy Duty Fishing Boat has made it to our list of the best inflatable fishing boat due to its premium build quality that allows it to fare in all kinds of water conditions.

This boat is made with German Heytex PVC which gives it strength and durability.

The aluminum floor provides rigidity to the overall structure of this boat making it best for casting and retrieving your rod.

In addition, there is a 2nd layer of extra-thick 1.5mm PVC glued along the bottom of the tubes, all the way up to rub strakes on the side of the tubes.

The bottom of the boat is also coated with a layer of 1.5 mm PVC fabric that provides it with added protection.

This fabric coating is uncommon on other similarly priced inflatable boats.

The boat also has all the necessary quirks and features such as rod holders, an inflatable keel, aluminum benches, drain valves, and extra d-rings.

This allows its occupants to move with peace of mind and truly focus on their fishing.

This inflatable raft is without a doubt one of the best when it comes to heavy-duty inflatable boats.

How To Choose The Best Inflatable Boat For Yourself?

When choosing an inflatable boat for your fishing adventures you will need to take into account the following things:

  • Materials and Durability
  • Type Of Inflatable Vessel
  • Weight Capacity/ Occupancy
  • Seating
  • Storage Options
  • Maintenance
  • Motor For Propulsion
  • Cost

These things will help you to make an informed decision and to buy an inflatable boat that serves your needs the best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why Inflatable Boats?

People buy inflatable boats for a variety of uses, but the most common reason for choosing these is their lightweight and portability. Moreover, a cheap inflatable boat can offer the same utility as a rigid hull boat.

How Stable Are Inflatable Vessels?

Inflatable boats have a wider surface area as compared to conventional boats therefore they are a lot more stable.

What Materials Are They Made Up Of?

Most of these boats are made from PVC, Hypalon, or Polyurethane.

Can We Repair These At Home?

Yes, most of the leakages and damages can be repaired using the repair kit that comes in the box. However, if the boat requires a major repair, you can easily order a spare part or contact its manufacturer for after-sales repair/maintenance.

What Type Of Pump Is Best?

There are 3 types of pumps available for inflatables. 
Hand pumps, foot pumps, and electric pumps. Hand pumps are best for young people and are small inflatables that will fill up quickly. Foot pumps are for people who find it difficult to bend over and use a hand pump.
Foot pumps can take longer to inflate a vessel but they are less exhausting. But if you want to save yourself from all kinds of physical labor you can use an electric pump. It will inflate your boat within seconds and you can use it to top off your boat from time to time over a long fishing day.