Bass Boat Insurance: Best Coverage For Peace Of Mind

Bass boat insurance is an important consideration for anyone who owns one of these vessels. While it's not a legal requirement everywhere, it's still crucial to have the right coverage to protect yourself and your boat. Bass boats are usually on the smaller side and designed for fishing in freshwater areas, but they can still be expensive, so it's important to have the right insurance to cover any potential damage or loss. There are a few different types of insurance to consider, including liability coverage, hull and equipment coverage, and boat towing coverage. It's also worth looking into add-ons like specialised coverage for expensive equipment and consequential damage coverage for issues like rot and mould. When it comes to choosing an insurance provider, it's worth shopping around to find the best rates and coverage for your needs. Some popular options include State Farm, Progressive, GEICO, and Boat US.

The best bass boat insurance companies

Bass boats are a common type of boat and are usually used for fishing, observing nature, or cruising shallow waters. While boat insurance is only legally required in a few states, it is still important to have one to protect yourself and your boat.

There are several insurance companies that offer bass boat insurance. Here are some of the best companies to consider:

Progressive

Progressive offers bass boat insurance starting at $100 per year for liability coverage. They provide comprehensive coverage for physical damage to your boat, as well as liability coverage in case you are responsible for a boating accident. They also offer a range of additional coverages, such as Propulsion Plus® mechanical breakdown coverage, fishing equipment coverage, and trailer trip interruption coverage. Progressive also offers discounts on bass boat insurance when you quote in advance or complete a boater safety course.

State Farm

State Farm is a popular choice for bass boat insurance, with many customers reporting reasonable rates and good experiences with claims. They offer coverage for the boat, trailer, and motor, as well as liability coverage. Their rates are competitive, and they have local agents available to provide personalized service.

GEICO

GEICO, in partnership with BoatUS, offers boat insurance with over 50 years of experience in the industry. Their policies cover damage to the boat, fuel spill liability, liability for accidents, and medical coverage. GEICO also provides tailored policies for different types of watercraft, including bass boats, and offers a range of discounts to make coverage more affordable.

SkiSafe

SkiSafe specializes in boat insurance and has been in business for over 40 years. They offer coverage for bass outboard boats, providing extra protection for fishing equipment and tournament use. SkiSafe allows you to customize your policy to manage special risks associated with bass boats.

BoatUS

BoatUS is the nation's largest group of recreational boat owners, providing services and representation for over 50 years. They offer insurance coverage in partnership with GEICO, including damage coverage, fuel spill liability, liability coverage, and medical coverage. BoatUS is known for its expertise in the boating industry and its commitment to making boating safer and more enjoyable.

When choosing bass boat insurance, it is important to consider your specific needs, the type of coverage required, and the reputation and reliability of the insurance company. Be sure to compare policies, coverage options, and discounts offered by each provider to find the best fit for your bass boat insurance needs.

What does bass boat insurance cover?

Bass boat insurance can cover a range of incidents and issues, depending on the policy you choose. While it is not a legal requirement in all states, it is worth getting to save you from potential financial stress and to ensure you have the correct coverage for your needs.

The two basic types of boat insurance are agreed value and actual cash value. Agreed value policies refer to the value of the boat when the policy is written, whereas actual cash value policies are cheaper upfront but factor in depreciation. As your boat gets older, an insurer will likely insist on an actual cash value policy.

Standard coverage includes property damage liability, bodily injury, medical expenses, and physical damage to your boat. You can also add extra coverage for things like fishing equipment, travel, fishing tournaments, and roadside or on-water assistance. You can also add insurance for your fishing equipment, power poles, and fish finders.

Some policies will also cover consequential damage, such as rot, mould, or corrosion, and towing, which can be very expensive. You can also get cruising extension coverage, which is similar to travel insurance, for additional coverage if you plan to leave US waters.

If you are looking for a bass boat insurance policy, it is worth shopping around to find the best coverage for your needs.

How much does bass boat insurance cost?

The cost of bass boat insurance varies depending on several factors, including the type of policy, location, and additional coverages. Here is an in-depth look at how much bass boat insurance costs:

Types of Boat Insurance Policies

There are two primary types of boat insurance policies: agreed value and actual cash value. The agreed value policy is based on the boat's value when the policy is written, while the actual cash value (ACV) policy factors in depreciation. ACV policies are cheaper upfront, but they will only cover the boat's actual cash value at the time of a total or partial loss. As boats age, insurers often require an ACV policy, which can result in significant savings.

Location and Cost of Boat Insurance

The cost of boat insurance also depends on your location. In 2022-2023, the average annual cost of a boat insurance policy ranged from $261 in Wisconsin to $812 in Florida. Northern states tend to have lower insurance costs, as they have shorter boating seasons and smaller boats. Coastal states, particularly those with a coastline along the ocean or the Gulf of Mexico, tend to have larger and more expensive boats, driving up insurance costs.

Additional Coverage Options

In addition to the base policy, there are several additional coverage options that can increase the cost of bass boat insurance. These include:

• Specialized coverage: This includes protection for expensive equipment like electronic fish finders with GPS navigation.
• Salvage coverage: This covers the cost of removing your boat from the water due to damage.
• Consequential damage: This type of coverage includes losses due to wear and tear, rot, mould, or corrosion.
• Towing: Towing policies are inexpensive and cover the cost of towing your boat across a body of water, which can be expensive.
• Cruising extension: Similar to travel health insurance, these policies provide additional coverage for boating outside of the US.

Factors Affecting Boat Insurance Rates

Several factors influence boat insurance rates, including the type of watercraft, safety measures, the boat's horsepower, age, and the owner's boating history. Fishing boats, pontoon boats, and sailboats may have unique features that affect policy costs. Completing a boating safety course can often lead to lower rates. Boats with higher horsepower, such as powerboats, tend to have higher insurance rates. Newer boats are generally more expensive to insure than older ones, and experienced boaters may receive lower rates than novices.

Examples of Bass Boat Insurance Costs

To give you an idea of the costs, here are some examples of bass boat insurance prices:

• State Farm: $150 per year for $10,000 agreed value coverage for the boat and motor, $1,000 for trailer and gear, and $300,000 liability insurance.
• Progressive: As low as $100 per year for liability coverage, with additional coverages available for fishing equipment, personal effects, and trailer trip interruption.
• Allstate: Around $500 per year for comprehensive coverage.
• Geico: Tried to introduce a clause excluding damage caused by "social unrest".
• Worldwide Marine: $805 per year for an agreed value of $80,000, $10,000 for fishing equipment, $300,000 liability, and $300,000 uninsured.

What affects the cost of bass boat insurance?

The cost of bass boat insurance is determined by several factors, including the type of boat, its condition, the location where it is stored, and the cruising area.

The type of boat is a primary factor in the cost of insurance. Larger and more expensive boats generally have higher premiums. Powerboats with higher horsepower also tend to cost more to insure. The condition of the boat is another factor, as boats in better condition are more valuable, and those in poor condition are more likely to suffer damage.

The location where the boat is stored can also affect the insurance rate. Areas that frequently experience natural disasters, such as floods, tornadoes, or hurricanes, will likely have higher insurance rates. Additionally, the cruising area, or the area where the boat will be used, impacts the cost of insurance. Insurers assign different risk factors to different areas, so sailing in areas with more storms, for example, may result in a higher rate.

The experience of the boat owner or operator can also influence insurance costs. Some insurers offer lower rates or discounts to mariners with more experience or those who have operated a boat for several years. Age can also be a factor, with older boat owners often paying lower premiums than younger ones.

Another factor to consider is the type of insurance coverage. There are two basic types of boat insurance: agreed value and actual cash value. Agreed value insurance covers the full insured amount in the event of a total loss, while actual cash value insurance replaces the value of the boat minus depreciation. Agreed value insurance typically costs more than actual cash value insurance.

Additionally, add-ons to the basic coverage can increase the cost of insurance. These add-ons can include specialised coverage for items like electronic fishfinders, salvage coverage, consequential damage coverage, towing coverage, and cruising extensions for international travel.

Finally, taking a boating safety course can help reduce the cost of bass boat insurance, as some insurers offer discounts for completing an approved safety course.

How to get the best bass boat insurance

Bass boat insurance is a must-have for anyone who owns one of these vessels, offering protection and peace of mind in the event of accidents, theft, or damage. Here are some tips to help you get the best bass boat insurance:

Understand the Basics of Boat Insurance

Know the two main types of boat insurance: agreed value and actual cash value. Agreed value covers a set amount agreed upon when the policy is written, while actual cash value policies factor in depreciation. Actual cash value policies are cheaper upfront but may not cover the full cost of replacement.

Know What's Covered and What's Not

Standard boat insurance typically covers property damage liability, bodily injury, medical expenses, and physical damage to your boat. However, additional coverage is often needed for boat equipment, fishing gear, and trailers. Be sure to ask your agent for a detailed list of what is and isn't included.

Consider Your Specific Needs

If you plan to fish, look for policies that cover fishing equipment and gear. If you intend to travel, ensure your policy covers emergency roadside and on-water assistance. Think about your specific usage and choose a policy that suits your needs.

Shop Around and Compare

Don't settle for the first policy you find. Get quotes from multiple providers and compare their coverage options, discounts, and customer reviews. Progressive, BoatUS, Markel, NBOA, State Farm, and Foremost are some of the top-rated boat insurance companies known for their comprehensive coverage and competitive rates.

Ask About Discounts

Many insurance providers offer discounts for various reasons. For example, taking safety courses, installing safety equipment, prompt payment, being the original owner, and bundling policies (e.g., with a car or homeowners insurance) can often reduce your premium.

Read the Fine Print

Before signing up, carefully read the terms and conditions of the policy. Understand the deductibles, exclusions, and any restrictions on cruising areas or boat types. Make sure you know exactly what you're getting into to avoid unpleasant surprises later.

By following these steps and doing your research, you can find the best bass boat insurance that suits your specific needs and provides the coverage you require at a competitive rate.

Frequently asked questions