Bowrider boats have been around since the 1950s. They were initially designed for use in shallow waters where they could be easily launched and retrieved from the shoreline. Today, however, many people prefer using their bowriders for fishing because they offer more room than other popular models.
Are you looking for the best bowrider boats for fishing? This article highlights some of the ones you should consider buying.
Yamaha SX210
Use the adaptable Yamaha SX210 to make the most of your time on the water. This bowrider has everything you need to relax and have fun while fishing.
Aside from having a gorgeous and modern windscreen, it also has a roomy bow and cockpit, two captain’s bucket chairs with flip-up bolsters, an Infinity Bluetooth sound system, a portable cooler ideal for a fishing bowrider, a center walk-through at the transom for easy boarding, and a ton of storage space.
The Yamaha SX210 is powered by two TR1 HO inboard motors and has a top speed of 43.8 mph.
Key Features
- Length: 21’3″
- Beam: 8’6″
- Dry weight: 3172 lbs
- Fuel capacity: 50 gal
- Seating capacity: 10
- Price: $46,999
Bayliner VR6
Bayliners are a common sight on almost all lakes and rivers, thanks to their line of reasonably priced and best-selling boats.
The Bayliner VR6 is the most recent model in the VR line, a bowrider that is practical, roomy bowler, and provides the best utility for converting the bowrider into a fishing boat.
Every inch of the VR6 is tailored to give boaters the most functional space possible. For example, it has a Beam Forward feature that carries the boat’s beam all the way forward to the bow’s nose.
The Aft Advantage design increases the cockpit seating area by repositioning it to the hindmost location of the running surface. The fishing platform was installed afterward, along with the functional internal area.
It includes an enclosed changing area, two speakers, a cockpit table, and a waterproof 120-watt AM/FM music system with MP3 compatibility as standard equipment.
The Bayliner VR6 has a top speed of 48.7 mph and is propelled by a 4.5-liter MerCruiser engine with 250 horsepower.
Key Features
- LOA: 22′ 4″
- Beam: 8’0″
- Dry weight: 1722 lbs
- Fuel capacity: 33 gal
- Passenger capacity: 10
- Price: $47,955
Formula 240
The Formula 240 Bowrider, which heavily emphasizes elegance and performance, blends sport boat handling with upscale equipment in a sleek, compact, and trailer package that makes it one of the best bowriders boats for fishing.
This popular boat’s bow has plenty of space to spread out and take in the sun and a hidden beach staircase.
The Clarion stereo system includes the molded fiberglass helm station with all the standard features.
Additionally, the 240 Bowrider has a detachable cockpit table and detachable cooler. Both the stainless steel sink and the molded cockpit wet bar are optional.
A double-wide, full-length sun couch with an inclined backrest is available in the aft area. There is still plenty of space for converting the bowrider to a fishing boat and wakeboard rack in the tower supports.
The maximum speed of the Formula 240 Bowrider, which is propelled by a single 430 horsepower MerCruiser 8.2, is 53.6 mph.
Key Features
- Length: 24′ 0″
- Beam: 8′ 6″
- Dry weight: 5150 lbs
- Fuel capacity: 55 gal
- Seating capacity: 9
- Price: $140,400
Tahoe 210S
The Tahoe 210S provides all the amenities necessary to make your fishing excursions memorable and enjoyable. It is simplistic and practical.
While the cockpit features convertible seats, ample storage to keep your items dry, and a Kicker stereo system with Bluetooth and MP3 compatibility, the bow has basic lounge chairs with plenty of storage space below.
It has a cozy U-shaped couch and a fantastic aft storage area that makes it easy to fish from this bowrider. In addition, this fishing boat has an extended bowrider casting deck with a ski tow ring, making it a perfect platform for anglers.
The Tahoe 210S can travel at over 55 mph with a 225-horsepower.
Key Features
- Length: 21’5″
- Beam: 8’4″
- 225 Horsepower
- Dry weight: 3225 lbs
- Fuel capacity: 45 gal
- Price: $49,995
Regal OBX 21
With up to 26% faster speeds and a 30% increase in fuel efficiency, the FasTrac hull design is one of the fastest bowrider boats.
The top speed of the Regal OBX 21 with a Yamaha F150 outboard motor is 43 mph.
The bowrider’s features include two 25-quart coolers big enough to hold all your catch and drinks, a huge sun pad at the stern, a transom walk-through for simple access, and a Fusion Bluetooth music system.
Premium hand-stitched upholstery was used to create the seats, with abundant storage space beneath them.
Key Features
- Length: 21’1″
- Beam: 8’6″
- Dry weight: 3250 lbs
- Fuel capacity: 40 gal
- Seating capacity: 10
Things to Consider While Choosing the Fishing Equipment for Your Bowrider Boat
- If you decide to buy new fishing equipment, you should first consider where you plan to fish. Do you want to fish in the ocean or lake? Will you be using a boat or shoreline? What kind of fishing are you going to do? You can use these queries to decide what fishing gear you need for your bowrider boat.
- Consider how much time you want to spend on the water as well. Do you wish to spend hours, days, weeks, or even months on the water? How many people will be joining you on the fishing trip?
- If you are going to be using a trolling motor, then you should look into getting one that is designed explicitly for Bowriders. These motors are usually smaller than those found on most boats so that they won’t take up much room. Additionally, they are frequently quieter than larger models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fishing with a bowrider boat safe?
Yes! A bowrider boat is safer than other boats because it has no sharp edges or protruding parts that could cause injury if someone falls off.
Can I use my bowrider boat as a live bait boat?
Yes, but not all bowrider boats come with a live bait tank. If yours does, then you’ll be able to use it to store live bait like minnows, worms, crabs, and shrimp.
Can I use my existing boat as a bowrider boat?
Yes, but you will need to modify it. For example, you can remove the back seat or add a second row of seating. If you do not want to modify your boat, you can purchase a bowrider conversion kit that includes everything you need to convert your boat into a bowrider.
Summary of the best bowrider boats for fishing
Bowrider boats bring a new level of fun and excitement to fishing. Getting the best bowrider for fishing is the first step towards having an unforgettable experience. Today, boat manufacturers and dealers give you plenty of options if you are looking for a bowrider for fishing. The right choice depends on your needs, budget, and preferences.