5 Tips For Buying The Right Fishing Raft For You

Fishing is a hobby that can build friendships and help you relax or connect with nature. Paddling in a kayak, canoe, or raft is a wonderful way to upgrade your fishing experience. Rafts, in particular, require less maintenance and are easier to use for beginners. Read on if you want to find out how to choose the right fishing raft for you.

1. Capacity

The number of people you want to take with you on a fishing trip is an important factor to consider when purchasing a raft.

Catarafts might be the best option for you if you prefer to go fishing by yourself. The elevated seat will allow you to kick back and enjoy the scenery while giving you extra visibility of the water in front of you.

If you go fishing with your friends or a larger group of people, you will need a classic inflatable fishing raft. These rafts can fit more people and are equipped with fishing rod holders, swivel seats, and even canopies. Another feature of the standard fishing raft is that they have a lot of storage space for all of your fishing gear.

2. Type of water

Another thing you should know before buying a raft is the type of water at your fishing destination. Is it a lake, a slow-running river, or white water? You will need a different type of raft, depending on the intensity of the water movement.

White water fishing rafts are suitable for faster waters and intense rapids. Anyone who already owns a white water raft can convert it into a fishing one by adding a specialized frame. These boats are designed for running rivers and Class III and IV rapids. Usually, the rafts are made from ultra-strong PVC materials and feature self-bailing floors.

A standard recreational raft will be good enough for slow rivers and lakes. Flat waters do not require special features, so this option also comes at a lower price.

3. Weight

Inflatable rafts might look lightweight, but in reality, they can be pretty heavy. Catarafts can weigh up to 80lbs before adding the anchoring frame into account. A standard fishing raft that fits seven people might be heavier than 100lbs without the fishing frame.

Weight can become a problem if you have to carry the deflated or inflated raft for longer periods of time. Smaller rafts weigh less and are easier to carry. If you have to portage a bigger raft, you can use the help of your fishing companions.

You might have a problem if you have to carry a cataraft on your own. These rafts fit one to two people but tend to weigh as much as 5-person rafts. We suggest that you refrain from buying a cataraft if you know that you will have to carry it for more than a few minutes.

4. Price

Fishing rafts are often very expensive. Usually, the price rises with the weight capacity of the raft. However, this is not the case with catarafts. These one-person floats can cost as much as a raft that can fit five people. Purchasing a fishing raft will definitely be a long-term investment.

If you want to find an affordable fishing raft, you can always look through a website for second-hand equipment. Keep in mind that pre-used rafts might come with their downsides. Some second-hand rafts might have been damaged by their previous owners. This makes the rafts less durable and more unreliable.

5. Accessories

Safety is always first. You should make sure that the raft you are purchasing is durable and strong. However, it is always a good idea to buy a boat that you like. Some specialized fishing rafts come in a camouflage pattern so they can fit in with the scenery.

Many of the raft options out there have features that are meant to improve your paddling experience. Some rafts have reclining seats with extra padding for more comfort. Other common features are the convenient fishing rod holders. Some boats even have a special compartment where you can put your drink.

Wrap up

Rafts can be used as a wonderful platform for fishing. They can allow you to challenge yourself in strong rapids or to relax and float. Paddling in a multi-person raft can be a great team-building experience for your family or friend group.

There are many aspects to consider when buying a raft, but the main ones are capacity, water type, weight, price, and accessories. We hope that this guide has helped you better understand the different types of fishing rafts.