The Ultimate Drift Boat: Selecting The Perfect Watercraft

Drift boats are a popular choice for fly fishing. They are designed to help anglers float downstream and cast their lines under overhanging trees and behind boulders. When buying a drift boat, it is important to consider the type of water you will be fishing in, the number of people you plan to accommodate, and your budget. Some popular drift boat brands include Clackacraft, Willie, Pavati, and Koffler. Factors such as stability, manoeuvrability, weight capacity, and customisation options should also be considered when choosing the best drift boat for your needs.

The best materials for a drift boat

Drift boats are a popular choice for fly fishing. There are a variety of materials to choose from when selecting a drift boat, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed guide to help you choose the best material for your needs:

Wood: Wooden drift boats are aesthetically pleasing and a dream to row. They offer a traditional and classic look that is hard to beat. However, the main drawback of wooden drift boats is the maintenance required to keep them in good condition. Wooden boats demand a significant amount of time and effort for upkeep, which may take away from the time spent fishing.

Aluminum: Aluminum drift boats are sturdy and durable. They can withstand impacts and provide a stable platform for fishing. However, aluminum boats tend to be noisier, and they can stick on rocks, which may be a hindrance in certain fishing situations.

Fiberglass: Fiberglass is the current industry standard for drift boats used by guides and fly fishing professionals. Fiberglass boats offer durability, ease of maintenance, and stability. They are comfortable and row surprisingly well. Additionally, the best fiberglass boats are known for their ability to handle various water conditions effectively.

Plastic: Plastic is a lightweight and extremely strong material that is gaining popularity in drift boat construction. Its strength and lightweight construction make it a suitable choice for whitewater kayaks, and it could be a promising trend for drift boats in the future.

When choosing the best material for your drift boat, consider factors such as maintenance requirements, durability, noise levels, and rowing performance. Additionally, your intended use and the type of water you'll be fishing in can help guide your decision toward the most suitable material for your drift boat.

The ideal size and weight of a drift boat

Width:

When it comes to the width of your drift boat, the general rule is that wider is better. A wider boat provides more stability, which is crucial when you have multiple passengers or when standing up to cast your line. The standard width for drift boats seems to be around 54 inches, but some boats go up to 60 or even 61 inches. The wider the boat, the more confident you can feel when navigating choppy waters or standing waves.

Length:

The length of your drift boat also plays a role in its performance and handling. Longer boats, such as those in the 17- to 18-foot range, tend to offer more room for gear and can accommodate more passengers. They are also better suited for multi-day trips as they provide additional space for supplies and comfort. However, shorter boats in the 14- to 16-foot range are more nimble and easier to manoeuvre, making them ideal for technical waters or tighter rivers.

Weight:

The weight of your drift boat is another critical factor. Heavier boats, such as those made of aluminium, tend to be more stable and can handle higher passenger loads without sitting too low in the water. However, lighter boats, such as those made of fiberglass or even the newer plastic options, are easier to transport and manoeuvre, especially in fast-moving currents or when navigating rapids. The weight of the boat also depends on the material it's made of. For example, wooden boats are known for their beauty and rowing performance but require more maintenance and can be heavier. Fiberglass boats, on the other hand, are the current industry standard as they are durable, stable, comfortable, and relatively easy to maintain.

Customisation:

When considering the size and weight of your drift boat, it's important to think about customisation options. Metal boats, such as aluminium or aluminium-clad boats, offer more opportunities for customisation and creature comforts. You can add features like level floors, walk-around rower's seats, and various seating configurations to suit your needs. On the other hand, fiberglass boats may have more limited customisation options but often provide a more "rounded" interior that minimises fly line snags.

In conclusion, the ideal size and weight of a drift boat depend on your intended use and personal preferences. Wider and longer boats offer more stability and space but may sacrifice some manoeuvrability. Heavier boats made of materials like aluminium provide stability and customisation options, while lighter boats made of fiberglass or plastic are easier to transport and row. Ultimately, the best drift boat is the one that suits your specific needs and allows you to enjoy your time on the water to the fullest.

The best drift boat for fly fishing

Drift boats are the ultimate in fly fishing boats. They are designed specifically for fly fishing and can handle up to Class III whitewater. They are extremely manoeuvrable, roomy, and allow anglers to stand while fishing.

When considering which drift boat to buy, there are several factors to keep in mind. Firstly, decide on the material. Drift boats are commonly made from wood, aluminium, or fibreglass. Wood looks great and is a dream to row, but it requires a lot of maintenance. Aluminium is durable but noisy and tends to get stuck on rocks. Fibreglass is the industry standard—it's stable, comfortable, and easy to maintain.

Next, consider the sides of the boat. Low sides are great for big, gentle rivers, but if you plan on fishing in rapids, you'll want a high side to avoid sinking. You should also ensure your boat has dry storage for your gear and that it rows and tracks well. Take the boat out for a test run if you can to see how it handles and manoeuvres.

• PAVATI WARRIOR™ DRIFT BOAT
• PAVATI LEGACY™ DRIFT BOAT
• PAVATI HELIUM™ LOW PROFILE DRIFT BOAT
• 16′ X 55″ PAVATI DRIFT BOAT
• Clackacraft Drift Boats
• Don Hill River Boats
• Greg Tatman Wooden Boats
• Hog Island Drift Boats
• Boulder Boat Works
• Adipose Boatworks

If you're looking for something more portable and versatile, you might want to consider an inflatable raft like the Flycraft Stealth. It's much lighter and easier to transport than a drift boat, and it can access hard-to-reach fishing spots. It's also more affordable, with a price range of $4,000 to $7,000 less than a drift boat. However, it may not be as stable or durable as a drift boat.

The best drift boat for rivers with rapids

When choosing a drift boat for rivers with rapids, there are several factors to consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some recommendations and key considerations to keep in mind:

Firstly, look for a drift boat with high sides. While low-sided drift boats have become popular for their handling in wind and on big, gentle rivers, they are not ideal for standing waves or rapids. High sides provide more stability and reduce the risk of taking on water in choppy conditions.

When it comes to materials, you have several options, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Fiberglass drift boats are the current industry standard and are favoured by fishing guides and professionals. They are stable, comfortable, and surprisingly easy to row. Fiberglass boats are also durable and require less maintenance than other options.

Wooden drift boats are another option and are an absolute dream to row. They are aesthetically pleasing and provide a traditional look and feel. However, they require a significant amount of maintenance and upkeep, which may take away from your fishing time.

Aluminum drift boats are another possibility, but they tend to be noisy and can stick to rocks, making them a less popular choice among anglers.

For rivers with rapids, you may also want to consider a raft instead of a drift boat. Rafts are more versatile and easier to manoeuvre in shallow river sections and areas with limited access. Look for rafts from reputable brands such as Smithfly, Flycraft, NRS, or Sotar.

When choosing a drift boat or raft, it is essential to consider the specific rivers you plan to frequent and the conditions you will encounter. Test out different options if possible to find the one that best suits your needs. Remember to prioritise safety, stability, and ease of use, especially when navigating rivers with rapids.

Lastly, don't forget to teach your friends and family how to row! You don't want to be stuck on the oars all day while the fishing opportunities pass you by.

The best drift boat for beginners

Drift boats are a great way to elevate your fishing experience. If you're a beginner, there are a few things you should consider before buying your first drift boat. Firstly, you'll want to think about the type of water you'll be fishing in. If you plan to fish in larger rivers with rapids, a wider drift boat with a high side, such as those offered by Boulder Boat Works and Clackacraft, will provide more stability and safety. On the other hand, if you'll be fishing in smaller rivers or areas with shallow water and limited access, a raft might be a better option.

When it comes to materials, you have a few choices. Wooden drift boats look beautiful and are a dream to row, but they require a lot of maintenance. Fiberglass boats, like those from Clackacraft, are the current industry standard as they are durable, stable, comfortable, and easy to maintain. Aluminum boats are sturdy but tend to be noisy and stick to rocks, while plastic boats are lightweight, strong, and may be the trend of the future.

Before making a purchase, it's important to test out different options to find what works best for you. Take boats out for a test float, and pay attention to features like manoeuvrability, stability, and storage space. You'll also want to consider the number of people you plan to accommodate, as this will impact the size and weight capacity of the boat.

Additionally, don't underestimate the importance of a good set of oars. Oars can make a significant difference in how easily you can manoeuvre your boat. If you're just starting, consider purchasing a used drift boat. This way, you can get a feel for what works for you without breaking the bank. Remember, the best drift boat for beginners is one that suits your specific needs, is comfortable, and enhances your fishing experience.

Frequently asked questions