Choosing the Best Boats for Fishing and Family Fun
Posted on: February 19, 2019 | by: admin

Are you thinking about getting a boat? There are many different kinds of boats out there, each with unique features and capabilities. The first step in choosing the best boat for you is to determine what you will typically use your boat for. Maybe you just want a boat that can zip around on the water. Or, maybe you’re looking for a boat that can be used for weekend family fun. With so many options, it can be difficult to decide which best suits you. But we’re here to help! We broke down the different kind of family and fishing boats below.
Best Boats for Families
If you’re looking for the kind of boat you can enjoy with your family, there are a few different options you can choose from.
- Pontoon boat: The pontoon boat you saw in the past is no longer the boat you see on the water today. What started as a slower, cumbersome design has now become a lighter more efficient boat. Depending on the make, model and value of the pontoon, your boat will come with a variety of features. Generally, what you can expect when buying a pontoon is a boat that sales smoothly, is spacious, is comfy and allows you to relax and enjoy the water. Nowadays, pontoon boats with stronger engines can even be used to pull tubes or water skiers.
- Bowriders: The bowrider is the most popular and commonly seen boat on the water. A bowrider can be used for everything from a day spent cruising the waters to tubing and water skiing. While past bowrider models have been limited in size and capabilities, the bowriders of today are not. Most families will be interested in bowriders between the sizes of 18 to 26 feet.
- Cruisers: Generally speaking, the cruiser has a much higher price than a pontoon boat or bowrider. The cruiser is large, and has the amenities needed for overnight accommodations. This boat is perfect for couples or families that are looking to spend the weekend exploring farther ports.
Best Boats for Fishing
Are you looking for a boat to mainly use fishing? Learn the difference between a freshwater and saltwater fishing boat below!
- Freshwater fishing boats: When it comes to choosing a fishing boat, the main factor to consider is the location you’ll be fishing. If you’ll be mainly fishing in freshwater, aluminum boats are the best answer. Generally speaking, aluminum boats are cheaper, weigh less and are stronger than fiberglass boats.
- Saltwater fishing boats: While most freshwater boats can technically be used in the saltwater, it is important to be aware that freshwater boats are designed to be used closer to shore and may not have the hull strength for rough ocean waters. Every saltwater boat will have its own list of strengths and weaknesses. Generally, there are two different kind of saltwater boats: express and convertible.
- Express: Express fishing boats have a lower center of gravity and therefore are more stable.
- Convertible: Convertible fishing boats have larger cabins and extra interior space. Convertible boats are also much taller which allow the captain to have elevated sight perfect for spotting fish.
Need a Boat Storage Solution
Once you are done using your boat for the day, weekend, or season, what do you do with your boat? More and more families are discovering the convenience of storing their boat at a storage facility. This allows you to keep your boat in a secure location while not cluttering your garage, yard or driveway. Lighthouse Self Storage has storage facilities in Cooper City, West Palm Beach, FL, Homestead, FL, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Whittier, CA, Westminster, CA and Oceanside, CA that offer boat parking options.
Reserve your storage unit today!