So you’re ready to get a pontoon boat and see for yourself what the hubbub is all about? Here are some things to consider before making your purchase:

Stillwater or Moving Water?

Keep in mind that some models are designed for stillwater use only, while others are designed for both still- and moving-water use. Those made for moving water will generally have pontoons 8 feet in length or longer and will have an upsweep, or rocker, at each end. The rocker lets the craft ride over small river waves and shortens the water line of the boat for easier turning.

Weight Capacity: You’ll want a pontoon boat with a working capacity that will adequately support your weight plus the weight of your gear. Working capacity should be approximately 30-40% of the boat’s total buoyancy. For example, a pontoon boat with a 300-lb. capacity should float a total load of approximately 900 lbs. before being pushed under water.

Oar Systems: Most pontoon boats are available with clamp-on oar locks or an open-oar system. The clamp-on system is good for beginning rowers because the oars are fixed in the right position for efficient rowing.

The open-oar system is popular with experienced oarsmen as it lets them feather the oar blades in the water and ship the oars inward to avoid obstacles.

Pontoons: Pontoons should be constructed from heavy-duty PVC or similar fabrics to stand up to the rigors of river use. In case you were wondering, it’s almost impossible to puncture a pontoon with an errant fly.

Pay attention to the length of the pontoon. Longer pontoons generally mean more stability and better “tracking” on the water. In addition, longer pontoons generally mean greater weight capacity and greater stability. This is something to keep in mind if you’re planning on longer trips that will require a heavier load of gear. However, you’ll sacrifice some maneuverability with longer pontoons.

Valves: Large air valves allow for quick and easy inflation and deflation of your boat

Frame: Frames should be sturdy and cradle the pontoons to prevent them from shifting under stress. They should also be easy to assemble.

Frameless Pontoon Boats: Thanks to recent design innovations, you may now hit the stream in a frameless pontoon boat. These streamlined boats mimic the design of traditional hard-bodied kayaks and offer numerous benefits for fishing. Just remember: When using this type of boat you sit lower in the water than you do in a framed model. So prepare yourself for a soaking-especially if you’re taking on whitewater.

Frameless pontoon craft offer fishermen many benefits. Among them:

• You can steer them easily with fins, leaving your hands free for fly casting.
• When deflated and packed away, many models fit the size specifications of airline carry-on luggage – a great benefit if you plan to float and use your fly rod in remote areas of the world.
• They’re remarkably lightweight.
• Highly maneuverable, some models can handle class IV or V whitewater. Be sure you accurately assess your skills before tackling any route.
• Some models offer cargo storage, letting you outfit them for multi-day river expeditions.

Extras: More expensive pontoon boats should include anchor systems, cargo decks and stripping aprons. Stripping aprons are mesh “shelves” that give you a place to work and they hold your fly line while you’re fishing so it doesn’t tangle.

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