Bay boats enable anglers to fish inshore, nearshore, and offshore under the right conditions. Of course, flats skiffs and offshore center-consoles have their place too. You wouldn’t want to take a bay boat into a fishing spot that only flats skiffs can reach, you’ll tear up the bottom and spook all the fish in the area. Similarly, you don’t want to take a bay boat offshore in conditions only a bigger center-console can handle. Taking on big waves and threatening weather can have disastrous results. So consider which type of fishing boat is really best for you before signing your John Hancock on the dotted line. Here you’ll find extensive content on different fishing boat types to help you make an informed decision.
Bay Boats
Probably the most versatile fishing platform in salt water, bay boats are a hot category for anglers today. Bay boats under 23 feet are a great option for fishing bays, intracoastal waters and other inshore hot spots. Those over 23 feet are often seen offshore when the seas allow it. Offshore anglers who plan to buy a center-console under 25 feet often pick a bay boat, which is better suited for fishing inlets and bays when rough water or inclement weather make offshore fishing a risky proposition. Check out Salt Water Sportsman’s bay boat coverage.
2022 Boat Buyers Guide: Bay Boats
All About Bay Boats
Best Bay Boats for Fishing
Buying a Bay Boat
