What Is a Bass Boat?
For serious anglers, the right boat can be the difference between catching the limit or getting skunked. A bass boat is a special type of fishing boat; it's designed for bass fishing, but you can also use it for other types of freshwater fishing. Before you buy, it's helpful to understand the features and limitations of this highly specialized craft. For more information, stop by to chat with us at Thayer's Marine in Norwich, Connecticut, serving Springfield, Massachusetts.
How Is a Bass Boat Different from Other Fishing Boats?
The biggest difference between a bass boat and other boats is its height. Bass boats sit very low to the water. This low-profile design and low displacement allows the boat to travel into the shallow waters that are preferred by bass. It also gives you a high degree of control when the wind picks up. Since the deck is low, bass boats are designed for calm inland lakes and rivers; they're not suited for waves or open water.
Every feature of a bass boat is designed for fishing. The flat deck and stable design enable you to cast in any direction. Aerated livewells pull in fresh, oxygenated water, so you can carry the live bait that bass prefer. Outboard motors allow you to travel quickly over long distances to reach different fishing holes.
Benefits of Bass Boats
If you're serious about freshwater fishing, a bass boat can enhance the experience. Most models come with angler-specific storage, including rod holders, tackle-box storage, gear lockers, and space for the fish you catch. Unlike other fishing boats, they enable you to travel in depths as shallow as 2 feet — this feature opens up a world of angling opportunities that are off-limits to most boaters. Thanks to its low profile and relatively short length, a bass boat requires less space in a garage or storage unit.
Drawbacks of Bass Boats
Bass boats are designed for one thing: freshwater fishing in inland lakes. If you're dreaming of leisurely cruises, waterskiing, or open-water excursions, you're better served by a more versatile, general-purpose boat. These boats perform well in flat water, but choppy conditions and large waves can overwhelm the low-slung frame. Since most models carry only two people, you don't have the option for family fishing trips. If you're on a budget, the high price tag of a bass boat might be a deterrent.
For the right type of angler, a bass boat is a worthwhile investment that can improve every excursion. Do you need help deciding between a bass boat and a different type of fishing boat? Stop in to chat with our crew at Thayer's Marine in Norwich, Connecticut; we also serve anglers in Springfield, Massachusetts.