Skiff Boat Showdown: Finding The Best Vessel

Skiff boats are a popular choice for fishing, with their small size and open design making them perfect for bays, marshes and coastal flats. There are many different types of skiff boats, from larger boats that can hold half a dozen anglers to smaller, technical skiffs designed for poling in shallow waters. When choosing the best skiff boat, it's important to consider factors such as size, weight, engine power, fishing features and price.

Some of the top skiff boats on the market include the Hewes Redfisher 16, the Maverick 18 HPX-V, the Yellowfin 17CE, the Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC, the Carolina Skiff 21 SWS, the Cape Craft 19 V, and the XPLOR Boatworks X7. These boats offer a range of features, including wide beams for stability, modified-V hulls for minimum draft, and ample storage space for fishing gear.

For those looking for a more affordable option, micro skiffs such as the Solo Skiff, the Glasser Boats 12, and the Tuff 16 are great choices, with prices starting at around $2,300. These boats are perfect for solo fishing and can easily be operated with a small outboard engine.

With so many options available, it's important to do your research and consider your specific needs and budget before deciding on the best skiff boat for you.

Best skiff boats for the money

When it comes to skiff boats, there are a variety of options available that offer excellent value for money. Here are some of the best skiff boats that provide a good balance between features and cost:

Mako Boats

Mako Boats offers a range of fishing skiffs, with models ranging from 13'6" to 19'4". Their pricing is quite reasonable, starting at around $18,000 and going up to $45,000. For this price, you get a fully outfitted package that includes the outboard engine and a trailer. Mako skiffs are equipped with features like fishing rod holders, raised casting decks, USCG navigation lights, and livewells, making them an excellent choice for anglers. Additionally, their Advanced Inverted V (AIV) hullform helps mitigate choppy waters, providing a smoother ride.

Veer

Veer is a new brand that entered the market in 2023 with a single model that is 13' long and 4' wide. This mini skiff accommodates two passengers and is powered by either a gasoline outboard or Mercury's new Avator electric outboard. One of the most impressive aspects of the Veer skiff is its construction—it is made of rotomolded polyethylene and filled with foam, providing durability and stability. At a launch price of under $12,000, it offers exceptional value, making it a great choice for those on a budget.

Tracker Grizzly

If you're looking for a simple and straightforward skiff, the Tracker Grizzly is an excellent option. While some models are sold as hull-only, the larger 18' and 20' models come in boat-motor-trailer packages, starting at under $25,000. Constructed from aluminum, these skiffs are lightweight and easy to launch, load, and tow. With a slight V in the hull, the Tracker Grizzly provides a good balance between stability and maneuverability.

Blue Wave 1900 STL

The Blue Wave 1900 STL is a great choice for those who want to combine skinny-water capabilities with comfort and excellent fishability. This skiff is part of Blue Wave's Ultra-Shallow series and features a large, rounded tunnel and a slot transom design, allowing for confident cruising in shallow waters. It offers stability, both at rest and on the run, and includes elevated casting areas, livewells, and ample walk-around space. With a focus on comfort and functionality, the Blue Wave 1900 STL is perfect for spending long days on the flats with family or friends.

Hewes Redfisher 16

The Hewes Redfisher 16 is a well-known skiff that has set the standard for backcountry fishing. Hewes boats are renowned for their VARIS construction, which optimizes the resin-to-composite ratio, resulting in a lighter and stronger boat. The Redfisher 16 offers a comfortable ride, even in choppy waters, thanks to its wide beam and 15-degree transom deadrise. It provides ample fishing space with its forward casting deck and convenient storage options. Additionally, it is easy to trailer and garage, making it a versatile choice for anglers.

Maverick 18 HPX-V

The Maverick 18 HPX-V is a popular choice among flats anglers and guides, known for its exceptional performance in shallow waters. This skiff provides ample space for up to three anglers to fish comfortably in various water conditions. The VARIS construction, Kevlar, and carbon fiber make the Maverick incredibly lightweight and rigid, allowing it to glide quietly and turn easily when poling. With a smooth ride and impressive livewell capacity, the Maverick 18 HPX-V is an excellent choice for those seeking a technical poling skiff.

Best skiff boats for rough water

When it comes to choosing the best skiff boat for rough water, there are several options available that offer a range of features and capabilities. Here are some of the top contenders:

East Cape Vantage

The East Cape Vantage is specifically designed to handle rough waters. With a length of just over 19 feet, this skiff can easily navigate through choppy waters without stuffing the bow. The V-hull and deadrise design ensure a smooth and dry ride, even in challenging conditions. It offers massive fore and aft casting decks, providing ample space for fishing gear. The thick gaskets and deep gutters keep stored items dry, and the large livewell in the aft deck is perfect for storing your catch.

Maverick Mirage 18 HPX-V

The Maverick Mirage 18 HPX-V is a versatile skiff that performs well in rough water conditions. It offers spacious fore and aft casting decks, along with ample storage compartments. The 13-inch poling tower and push pole holder make it ideal for fishing in various environments. The 30-gallon livewell with an advanced bubble aeration system sets it apart from other skiffs, making it a favourite among anglers.

Action Craft 1820 Flatsmaster

The Action Craft 1820 Flatsmaster is a high-performance skiff that excels in rough water. Its modified deep-V hull design provides exceptional stability, making it a great choice for families or groups. The boat is designed with Pocket Drive technology, allowing it to efficiently navigate shallow waters with ease. It offers ample space, a self-draining cockpit, wide gunwales, and a range of fishing-friendly features.

Yellowfin 17 CC

The Yellowfin 17 CC is a technical poling skiff that delivers exceptional performance in rough water conditions. Its ergonomic layout caters to the needs of fly fishing anglers, and its stability in windy weather is remarkable. The boat provides ample storage space and can easily skim through marshes and shallow waters. The attention to detail and workmanship on this craft are truly impressive.

Egret 189

Dubbed the "Rolls Royce of flats boats," the Egret 189 is a lightweight, durable, and resilient skiff. Constructed with Kevlar and carbon fiber fabrics, it can take on tough water conditions with ease. It offers a range of fishing-friendly features, including a poling platform, push pole holders, rod holders, and ample storage space. The Egret 189 is an excellent choice for inshore anglers looking for a reliable and sturdy skiff.

Best fishing skiff boats

Skiffs are a diverse category of boats, ranging from small, two-person vessels to larger boats that can hold half a dozen anglers. They are generally characterised as being relatively small, simple, and open, with most being powered by outboard motors and measuring under 20 feet in length.

When it comes to the best fishing skiff boats, there are several options that stand out:

Carolina Skiff

Carolina Skiff offers a wide range of boats, from 16'2" to 26'0", that are well-equipped for fishing. Their boats include features such as rod holders, livewells, and integrated fishboxes, as well as extras like diamond-stitched upholstery, telescopic ladders, and coloured gel coats. Carolina Skiff boats also have a semi-V entry and flat aft end, allowing them to maintain a minimal hull draft so you can cast in shallow waters.

Sundance Skiffs

The Sundance line of skiffs includes four models in 20- and 22-foot lengths. These boats are designed for fishing, with forward and rear casting decks, rod holders, livewells, and pre-wiring for a bow-mount electric trolling motor. Sundance skiffs can also reach speeds of over 40 mph when appropriately powered.

Hewes Boats

Hewes Boats is a well-known brand in the fishing skiff world, with their Redfisher series being a popular choice. The Redfisher 16, in particular, has been praised for its VARIS construction, which reduces weight while maximising strength. This results in a boat that is easy to pole and durable. The Redfisher 16 also offers ample fishing room, storage space, and console racks to keep rigged rods within arm's reach.

Maverick

Maverick is another popular brand for fishing skiffs, with a limited line-up that includes a pair of 17-footers and an 18-foot model. Their boats are designed with features like poling platforms, casting platforms, push-pole holders, trolling motor wiring, and release wells. Maverick boats are also equipped with flush-mounted hardware, making them ideal for fly anglers.

Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC

The Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC is a versatile and affordable option, packing in a ton of fishing features into a small package. It is a great choice for a starter boat and can accommodate a small family or 2-3 anglers. The Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC has a foam-filled hull and a solid structure, making it a safe and sturdy vessel for inshore fishing.

Yellowfin 17 CE

The Yellowfin 17 CE is another impressive fishing skiff, known for its high-tech construction and impressive performance. It has a stepped hull that is 20% lighter and 17% stronger than its predecessor, resulting in an average fuel burn of 7 mpg and a range of over 150 miles. The Yellowfin 17 CE also floats skinny, even when fully loaded, making it a great choice for shallow water fishing.

These are just a few examples of the best fishing skiff boats available. Each brand and model offers unique features and capabilities, so it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences when making a decision.

Best flats skiff boats

Flats skiffs are designed for skinny-water fishing, with stealth, shallow draft, and versatility. They are ideal for anglers looking to fish in shallow water flats, salt marshes, or other skinny-water areas. When choosing a flats skiff, it is important to consider the specific needs and budget. Here are some of the best flats skiff boats available in the market:

Maverick 18 HPX-V

The Maverick 18 HPX-V is a versatile high-performance flats boat known for its ability to navigate both skinny shallow waters and tougher, windier conditions with ease and grace. It offers a remarkable range and speed without compromising draft length, making it ideal for various activities such as poling, shallow-water fishing, and casting fly rods. The Maverick 18 HPX-V is a superb choice for anglers seeking a versatile and feature-rich boat.

East Cape Evo

The East Cape Evo is a fully customizable skiff measuring 17 feet 9 inches in length and 79 inches in width. It can be outfitted with an engine ranging from 40 to 115 horsepower, and offers various command centre options, including an off-set centre, centre, or side console. The Evo is an excellent choice for anglers who want a customizable boat with outstanding maneuverability and performance in shallow waters.

Beavertail Strike

The Beavertail Strike is a versatile flats boat known for its high-quality components and onboard features. It is designed for stealth fishing with its built-in anodized platform, and it offers extensive storage options for fishing gear and accessories. The Strike's hydraulic steering wheel makes it easy to amp up the speed when needed. This boat is an excellent choice for anglers who require versatility and a stealthy approach.

Chittum Islamorada 18 Legacy Edition

The Chittum Islamorada 18 Legacy Edition is a feature-rich next-generation skiff. It offers aft lockers that double as dry storage, a console cooler with a 360-degree cooler seat, a front deck locker, and four hatches on the aft deck. Additionally, it features LED navigation lights, a 30-gallon live/release well, high-capacity rod racks, and many other fishing-ready amenities. The Chittum Islamorada 18 is perfect for anglers seeking a customizable boat with a wide range of convenience features.

Hell's Bay Waterman 18

The Hell's Bay Waterman 18 has the shallowest draft among the flats boats on this list, making it ideal for poling in skinny waters with minimal noise. It is Livewell-ready and features a bilge pump with an 1100 GPH specification. The Hell's Bay Waterman 18 is a high-quality, no-frills boat perfect for anglers who prioritise quiet and efficient poling in shallow waters.

Beavertail Air

The Beavertail Air is a custom-designed flats boat that excels in navigating both open bays and shallow flats. Its composite hull makes it lightweight and solid enough for open-water conditions. The Air is packed with fishing-savvy features, including Livewells, anchor lockers, and ample storage compartments. This boat is an excellent choice for anglers who require a versatile boat capable of handling both inshore and offshore fishing conditions.

Best micro skiff boats

Micro skiffs are small flats skiffs designed for just two anglers. They are a minimalist's dream, with a low cost and a lightweight, simple design. Here are some of the best micro skiff boats on the market:

Solo Skiff

The Solo Skiff is a 14'5", 150-pound rotomolded boat made out of high-density polyethylene. It can fit in the back of a full-sized pickup truck and can be powered by a 6-horsepower outboard engine, taking you to speeds of over 15 mph. It has a minimum draft of 3 inches, an integrated cooler, a dry storage box that doubles as a seat, and grab handles. At around $2,300, it is a great budget option.

Beavertail 16 Micro

The Beavertail 16 Micro is a 16-foot, 400-pound boat that requires just 30 horsepower and has a 5-inch hull draft. It is available in both side console and tiller-steer versions and is highly customizable with options like flyline toerails and LED lighting on the poling platform.

Hell's Bay Glades Skiff

The Hell's Bay Glades Skiff is a 17'8" skiff with a svelte 4'10" beam and a four-inch hull draft. It runs with 30 horsepower and is designed to navigate tight backcountry waterways. It is constructed with a carbon-Innegra hull vacuum-infused over Core Cell.

Glasser Boats 12

The Glasser Boats 12 is a tiny skiff with great build quality. It only needs a 15-horsepower outboard engine to get going.

Dragonfly Emerger 16

The Dragonfly Emerger 16 has a beam of just under 70 inches and comes with 11 degrees of transom deadrise and a max power rating of 70 horsepower. Dragonfly also offers the Marsh Hen 15, a 135-pound hull with a 50-inch beam.

NanoCraft 13

The nanoCraft 13 is one of the most compact and lightest technical poling skiffs on the market. With a 3.5-inch draft, it allows anglers to discover fishing holes that others can only dream of. It is 13 feet long and just over 200 pounds.

Frequently asked questions