A fisherman must consider trade-offs when selecting a boat. Deeper V hulls run smoother but may chop up waves; trawlers need ample fuel capacity for long runs to offshore fishing grounds. Bay and flats boats are designed for fairly specific environments, while mid-sized and large center consoles offer versatility for various angling conditions. Take an extended sea trial on every ship you consider.
Value
Many anglers make boat-buying decisions based on price alone, but value goes a long way toward overall satisfaction. That’s why reputable fishing boat console manufacturer Conway AR offers many budget options. Their hulls are sea-worthy and durable, while their interior designs are designed for comfort and style. Their center console boats are versatile enough to take you offshore or to a sandbar. They’re favored by die-hard fishermen who don’t sacrifice disability for creature comforts or leisure activity equipping. Fuel capacity is also important for making those long runs to fishing grounds. You’ll want to ensure that your new boat has enough power to get you there and back again, allowing you to troll all day and return to port with a full tank.
Design
The layout is one of the most important things to consider when shopping for a center console boat. While some builders create a center console pleasure boat with zero fishing accouterments to appeal to families and casual towing sports enthusiasts, most fish-oriented centers are built with serious fishing in mind. This means there will likely be ample rod holders (ideally a minimum of three gunwales and four sterns) with storage racks underneath them. It also means that seating will be appropriate for a serious angler, from basic leaning posts to much-prized Stidd seats on gold platers. Finally, a large center console will allow the skipper to work around the entire boat from bow to stern without moving the ship to one side or another. Although hard-core fishermen will rank this lower than hull performance, creature comforts are important to those looking to spend long days on the water. This includes a soft ride, a self-bailing cockpit that drains easily and does not back into the boat, a large live well, and plenty of room for a big cooler.
Performance
A boat must be well-suited to the fisheries you hope to fish in. Trollers, for instance, will not be happy with a center console boat with only two flush-mount gunwale rod holders and no raised casting decks. It should have ample storage in logical and accessible locations, with forward, central and aft options. This helps you bring in the catch and promotes safety and security for your passengers. If you plan to spend most of your time fishing in sheltered coastal bays, rivers, and back-country waterways, consider a center console or bay boat with a shallow draft. However, if you love chasing the action in offshore bluewater, a deep-V center console with a wave-splitting hull design is probably better. The best way to determine which type of boat is right for you is to follow the 80 percent rule and choose one that focuses on your most common pursuits.
Warranty
It’s important to know how a manufacturer stands behind their boats. For example, how quickly do they resolve problems? Understanding the warranty and what activities aren’t covered is also wise. A savvy shopper will do their research and take an extended sea trial before signing on the dotted line. Many fishing boat manufacturers offer lifetime hull and three-year component warranties, making them ideal for buyers who want to protect their investments. These warranties are transferable to a new owner. Unlike some boats dedicated to a specific style or type of fishing, center consoles can be used for bass and crappie in the lake one day and fluke in the bay or ocean the next. This versatility makes them great for families who want to do it all.