Choosing Fly Fishing Boats

Most people imagine the iconic fly fisherman standing in waste high water, and fully decked out in waders, boots, and fly vest. Many fishermen do indeed choose to carry all of their fly fishing materials into the center of a river. However, this isn't the only way to fly fish.

However, it is becoming more difficult to find open shoreline to fish. With so many other fisherman competing for the prime holes, more and more fisherman are taking to fly fishing boats. Boats allow you to avoid the rat race. They also let you fish in front of untouched private property that may otherwise be inaccessible.

The Perfect River Boat

Fly fishing boats change the way you fish. They allow you to reach all of those pristine fishing holes that wade fishers try to get to. They also allow you move right over the fish without spooking them. Fly fishing boats are ideal for fishing the larger rivers in the Western US.

The drift boat is perhaps the most advanced of fly fishing boats. The drift boat is basically an enhanced dory. It has been converted to river use and is ideal for fishing the fast flowing river. Drift boats have flat bottoms, wide centers, and high sides.

Of all fly fishing boats, the drift boat is a frequent favorite among fly fishermen. It is designed specifically for river fishing. The high sides help keep fishermen dry even in rapids. There is ample watertight storage to keep clothes and water sensitive items dry. They also provide a stable platform to stand on. Knee lock allow you to safely stand and cast even while racing down whitewater.

There are many different fly fishing boats on the market. Most of them are river rafts. If you have used any of these others and then upgrade to a drift boat, you will immediately notice a boost in maneuverability. The drift boat moves much faster over the water and turns instantly, making it perfect for running rapid and reaching the best fishing holes.

Fly fishing boats can be a bit of work. This is definitely the case with drift boats. To have a drift boat, you will need a trailer and vehicle that can tow it. You will also be limited to using boat launches. Additionally, drift boats don't perform well in low water.

The final caveat for some fisherman, is the high price of most drift boats. They often cost five grand or more. Of course, if well cared for, a drift boat will outlast any of the other fly fishing boats on the river.