Fishing in Florida is the top most sport for the area, but saltwater is not the only style of fishing for the avid angler in this sun-soaked state. Florida is known for its freshwater water avenues as well. Freshwater fishing boats for sale offer a different style for the angler. Even though these vessels are not designed for the deep sea, their quality performance is no less important to the fishing industry. Here is what you need to know if you are looking for a quality boat for freshwater sector.
Outboards
Nearly all the freshwater fishing boats on the market are powered by outboard motors. There are a few exceptions, such as can be found in some bayliners. Unlike the offshore angler vessels which must contend with rougher water, generally the freshwater provides a calmer atmosphere. As such, the power configurations of the outboards do not require substantial HP. While some owners prefer to upgrade the outboards for use on the larger lakes (or simply to have the aesthetic advantage of a large motor on their boat), many of the freshwater fishing boats can navigate successfully using a single 4-Stroke 200HP engine.
When seeking your freshwater boat for sale keep in mind that there are many regions within Florida that fill into the conservation areas. These areas have regulations and stipulations to the size and the HP allotted in the area. To find the best outboard configuration for your vessel, see the location pages of Vessel Vendor or contact the FWC.
Before purchasing a pre-owned freshwater fishing boat for sale, contact the owner to inquire if the outboard motor is still under a transferable warranty.
Hull design
The hulls on the freshwater fishing boats will vary depending upon the type of boat that you choose. Skiffs and bass boats tend to have more of a flat bottom hull. Fisharounds and center console boats tend to have a Vee hull. Primarily, a person will want to have the flatter hull if he or she wishes to fish in the shoals or in water less than 3’. The Vee hull is appropriate for those seeking deeper freshwater such as Lake Okeechobee.
Depending upon the type of hull that you choose, as well as the length and brand, you will find that some brands are more equipped for the freshwater than others. Since freshwater does not have the depths of the ocean, rocket rod holders are typically not found on the vessels. However, you will find that some of the larger fishing boats for sale have rod holders on the gunwale, bow, and transom. Other features include live wells and bait stations. Again, these options are primarily on the higher LOAs. Skiffs, bay boats, and bass boats are generally minimalistic in their interior design.
Freshwater Fishing Boat Brands
The market for freshwater fishing boat brands in Florida is strong, but these boats are not merely limited to one style. Bass boats and pontoon boats are just a few styles in this growing boat sector and the options for customization are available as well. Custom graphics as well as additional seating options add to the versatility of any freshwater fishing boat.
- G3
- Tracker
- Lund
- Smoker Craft
- Starcraft
- Legend
- Crestliner
- Sleeter
- Hydra Sports
- Triton
- Hawk Boats
- Bass Cat
- Cobra
- Xpress
- Angler Quest
The very base style of the freshwater vessel on the market today can cost just a few thousand dollars, but for a bit more (starting at $16,000), the options increase substantially with onboard storage as well as updated casting platforms. For the avid fisherman, the pre-owned market, via Vessel Vendor, will provide even more options for value in the purchase price.
Looking for Freshwater Fishing Boats for Sale?
Vessel Vendor has become known as the leading resource for boating enthusiasts in Florida. We are known throughout the state as the top site to find boats of all styles. Vessel Vendor specializes in all vessels, including both saltwater and freshwater boats for sale.
Our site not only specializes in providing ample inventory to browse, but also works to educate new boaters as well as expand the knowledge of advanced anglers through educational materials. We offer boat reviews, manufacturer summaries, boating tips, maintenance articles, and so much more.
Listers enjoy the ability to post their vessels for sale through an easy to follow self-posting platform and get the chance to realize more of their ROI through the cheapest seller fees of any other site in Florida. We make it easy, so more sellers post with us giving our buyers
If you have any questions regarding any aspect of Vessel Vendor be sure to contact us through the appropriate online contact form and as always, come back often to see what we have for you.
If you are interested in buying freshwater fishing boats for sale, or you are in need to sell your freshwater fishing boats, Vessel Vendor can help! Vessel Vendor helps make boat sales easy by connect boat sellers with qualified boat buyers. Complete a listing to sell your boat online or shop boats for sale here.
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