Best Bowfishing Boat Brands: Choosing Your Waterway Companion

Bowfishing is a popular pastime among boaters in the south, and many people who own a Jon boat for fishing or hunting also use it for bowfishing. The right bowfishing boat will make it easy to get out to where the fish are and land a big catch with an arrow.

There are several factors to consider when choosing the best bowfishing boat. Firstly, the hull shape is important as it determines the boat's ability to navigate shallow waters. Flat-bottomed or semi-V-shaped hulls are common among bowfishing boats. Another key feature is the platform, which should provide adequate space and stability for anglers to balance and use their gear. The boat's materials are also important, with aluminium being a popular choice due to its lightweight and durability. Other considerations include the budget, the layout of the boat, and the presence of features such as guard rails and fishing accessories.

When it comes to bowfishing boat brands, there are several options available in the market. Some popular brands include Gator-Tail, G3 Gator Tough, Havoc, Tracker Grizzly, Alumacraft, Crestliner, Lund, Boston Whaler, and Grady-White. These brands offer a range of features and specifications to suit different needs and preferences.

Ultimately, the best bowfishing boat depends on individual requirements and budget. Customising an existing boat or building a new one from scratch are also options for those who want a truly unique vessel.

Aluminium vs fibreglass hulls

Aluminium and fibreglass are two of the most common materials used for boats. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for an individual depends on their specific needs and priorities. Here is a detailed comparison of aluminium vs fibreglass hulls to help you decide which one suits your bowfishing needs better:

Aluminium Hulls:

Aluminium boats are a common choice for many boaters, including those who enjoy bowfishing. Here are some of the key advantages of aluminium hulls:

• Cost: Aluminium boats tend to be less expensive than their fibreglass counterparts, sometimes significantly so. This makes them a more budget-friendly option for those looking to get into bowfishing.
• Weight: Aluminium boats usually weigh less than fibreglass boats of a similar size. This makes them easier to launch, load, and trailer, and they require smaller powerplants, resulting in lower operating costs.
• Maintenance: Aluminium boats typically require less maintenance since you don't need to wax them as frequently as fibreglass boats. They are also more dent-resistant, which can lead to lower repair costs in the event of an accident.
• Customisation: Aluminium boats can be customised and welded to suit specific needs, such as adding features for bowfishing like wide decks, open hull layouts, and wide hull designs.
• Durability: Aluminium boats are known for their durability and resistance to rot. They are less prone to corrosion than fibreglass boats and can withstand impacts without cracking or breaking.

However, there are also some disadvantages to consider with aluminium hulls:

• Stability: Due to their lighter weight, aluminium boats may not offer the same level of stability as fibreglass boats, especially in rough waters. They can be more susceptible to being buffeted by the wind, which may impact your ability to bowfish effectively.
• Design limitations: Aluminium boats are limited in terms of design complexity compared to fibreglass boats. They are constrained by the ability to bend and weld the metal, resulting in simpler hull shapes and fewer integrated accessories.
• Noise: Aluminium boats may not offer the same level of a quiet ride as fibreglass boats, as they can be noisier due to their construction.
• Appearance: Some people prefer the crisp, clean look of fibreglass boats over the raw and rugged appearance of aluminium hulls, which often require painting to improve their aesthetics.
• Electrolysis: Aluminium boats are susceptible to electrolysis, a type of corrosion that can occur when electricity passes through and causes the alloy surfaces to decompose. This can happen when metal objects come into contact with saltwater in the boat.

Fibreglass Hulls:

Fibreglass boats, also known as GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) boats, have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are some key points to consider:

• Stability: The heavier weight of fibreglass boats gives them better seakeeping abilities and stability compared to aluminium boats. They are less likely to be affected by wind and tend to drift more slowly and predictably, which is an important trait for anglers and bowfishers.
• Design flexibility: Fibreglass can be easily moulded into complex designs and shapes, allowing for more innovative hull shapes and integrated accessories like livewells, tackle stations, seating modules, and fishboxes.
• Ride quality: The additional weight of fibreglass boats provides a smoother ride, especially in choppy or rough conditions. This can be advantageous for bowfishers who often find themselves in such waters.
• Appearance: Many people prefer the crisp, clean, and shiny look of fibreglass boats over aluminium. Fibreglass boats often have a gelcoat finish that provides a high-quality appearance.
• Corrosion resistance: Fibreglass boats are not prone to electrolysis, a type of corrosion that aluminium boats can suffer from. However, fibreglass boats can still experience issues like water ingress, osmosis, and delamination.

On the other hand, there are some disadvantages to fibreglass hulls as well:

• Cost: Fibreglass boats tend to be more expensive than aluminium boats, which may be a significant factor for those on a budget.
• Weight: The heavier weight of fibreglass boats can make them more challenging to manoeuvre and may require larger powerplants, resulting in higher operating costs.
• Maintenance: Fibreglass boats typically require more maintenance to maintain their appearance. Regular polishing and waxing of the gelcoat finish are necessary to prevent fading and staining.
• Repairs: Repairs on fibreglass boats can be more labour-intensive and costly, especially for structural damage. It requires skilled shipwrights to properly repair fibreglass, and improper repairs can lead to further issues over time.
• Stumps and rocks: Fibreglass boats are more prone to damage from stumps and rocks, which can be a concern for bowfishers who frequent areas with these obstacles.

Both aluminium and fibreglass hulls have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you value stability, ride quality, and the ability to customise your boat's design, a fibreglass hull may be ideal. However, if you prioritise cost, weight, maintenance, and durability, an aluminium hull might be the better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific conditions in which you plan to use your bowfishing boat.

Modified V vs flat-bottomed hulls

When it comes to the best type of hull for bowfishing, there are two main options: a modified V-shaped hull or a flat-bottomed hull. Both have their pros and cons, and the best choice for you will depend on the type of water you plan to fish in and your personal preferences for shooting space and ride smoothness.

Modified V-shaped hulls handle open water well and provide a smoother ride due to their ability to cut through waves. However, they offer less efficient shooting space, with reduced room for shooters to target fish coming in front of the boat.

Flat-bottomed hulls, on the other hand, make for a very efficient shooting platform. The wide square body allows the boat to float better in shallower waters. However, a windy day can make for a rough ride as flat bottoms slap the waves instead of cutting through them.

If you plan to fish in deeper waters, a modified V-hull may be a better choice. This type of hull is more common in freshwater lakes and streams. If you prioritize shooting space and shallow waters, a flat-bottomed hull is the way to go. This type of hull is more commonly used along the coast.

When choosing a hull type, it's important to consider not only the shooting experience but also the comfort of the ride. A rough ride can make for a challenging trip, especially if you have passengers who are not used to the motion of the boat. Ultimately, the best hull type for bowfishing depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Boat trailers

When it comes to choosing a boat trailer, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the type of trailer is important. Bunk trailers offer superior hull support and are ideal for steep launching conditions, while roller trailers provide easy loading and launching in all conditions. The trailer material is another key consideration; aluminium provides natural corrosion resistance and weight savings, while hot-dipped galvanised steel offers exceptional strength and durability in challenging marine conditions, including saltwater.

The axle configuration is also important. Single-axle trailers are suitable for boats up to 20 feet in length, while tandem and tri-axle trailers are designed for boats 20 feet and longer. When selecting a trailer, it's essential to consider the specific dimensions and requirements of your boat.

In addition to these factors, it's worth noting that boat trailers are exposed to harsh conditions, including saltwater immersion, mud, and weather extremes. Therefore, it's crucial to choose a trailer with a sturdy and corrosion-resistant frame, such as those made by Load Rite.

• Load Rite Galvanised Single Axle Bunk Trailer: Suitable for boats up to 18 feet in length, this trailer features a galvanised steel construction for durability and corrosion resistance.
• Load Rite Aluminium Tandem Axle Skiff Trailer: This aluminium trailer is designed for tandem axle configurations and is ideal for skiff-style boats.
• Load Rite Galvanised Tandem Axle Roller Trailer: Featuring a galvanised steel construction, this roller trailer provides easy loading and launching for boats that require tandem axle support.
• Load Rite Aluminium Single Axle AB Bunk Trailer: Designed for single axle configurations, this aluminium trailer is suitable for a variety of boat types and offers corrosion resistance.

Bowfishing lights

Types of Bowfishing Lights

• Above Water Lights: These lights are typically mounted on the boat and shine directly down into the water. They can be adjusted to suit the water clarity and are usually powered by the boat's battery or a generator.
• Underwater Lights: These lights are submerged and can provide a more focused beam on the target area. They are often used in conjunction with above-water lights to maximise visibility.
• LED Lights: Light-emitting diode (LED) lights have become an increasingly popular choice for bowfishing due to their high lumen output, long lifespan, and accurate colour rendering. They are also energy-efficient and can be physically smaller while producing the desired light intensity.
• High-Pressure Sodium (HPS) or HID Lights: Traditionally, HPS or HID lights were commonly used for bowfishing due to their high lumen output. However, LED lights are now preferred by many anglers because of their longer lifespan and improved colour accuracy.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Bowfishing Lights

• Lumen Output: The higher the lumen output, the brighter the light, and the better it will illuminate the water. Look for lights with a minimum output of 100 watts to ensure sufficient depth penetration.
• Mounting Options: The type of mount will depend on the design of your boat and where you want to place the lights. Yoke mounts are versatile and offer infinite angle adjustments, while trunnion mounts provide a low-profile option with a wide range of angle adjustments. For custom installations, mountless flood lights can be integrated into existing or fabricated mounting systems.
• Space Constraints: Consider the available space on your boat when choosing bowfishing lights. LED lights are advantageous in this regard, as they provide high lumen output in a compact size.
• Power Source: Bowfishing lights can be powered by the boat's battery or a separate generator. LED lights are energy-efficient and can be powered by 12V or 24V batteries, or switched to 110V or 120V generators if needed.
• Water Clarity: The ideal lighting setup will depend on the water clarity. Adjustable LED lights are advantageous in this regard, as they can be tuned from warm to cool white to suit different water conditions, from muddy to clear.

Recommended Bowfishing Lights

• Swamp Eye LED Bowfishing Lights: These lights offer excellent adjustability for different water conditions and are used by commercial fishermen, guides, and amateurs alike. The Swamp Eye Light Bar is designed for above-water use, while the Mini Swamp Eye Submersible can be used above or below water, even in saltwater.
• SeeLite TRUEWarm LED Flood Lights: After extensive research and testing, SeeLite designed the TRUEWarm line to provide bright and accurate lighting for bowfishing. They offer a range of wattage options (50W, 70W, 100W, 140W) to suit different needs.
• Straits Lighting LED Flood Lights: Straits Lighting offers affordable and versatile lighting options for bowfishing. Their 50W and 30W LED flood lights feature a yoke mount for easy installation and angle adjustments.

Motors

Trolling Motor

The trolling motor is a popular choice for bowfishing as it allows for quiet operation and can be used to slowly troll the boat through the water while searching for fish. It is typically powered by batteries and can be mounted on the bow of the boat, providing better control and manoeuvrability. However, trolling motors have high power draw and may require a dedicated battery bank for extended use. They are also prone to overheating if operated at maximum speed for extended periods.

Fan Motor

Fan motors, also known as "mud motors," are another option for bowfishing boats. These motors are designed to push the boat through shallow waters and can be run with an alternator to power bowfishing lights, reducing battery weight. However, fan motors are loud and can be a safety hazard, so they require careful operation.

Kicker Motor

Kicker motors are small outboard motors that are mounted alongside the main outboard motor. They are useful for trolling at low speeds and chasing fish. Kicker motors provide good power and manoeuvrability, even in windy conditions. However, they do not have the ability to run on an alternator like fan motors, and they are not as portable and compact as trolling motors.

When choosing a motor for your bowfishing boat, consider factors such as the type of water you will be fishing in, the level of noise you are comfortable with, and your budget. Each type of motor has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision.

Frequently asked questions