Top Aluminum Fishing Boat Makers: Crafting The Best Vessels

Aluminum fishing boats are ideal for anglers who want to fish in shallow waters, rocky areas, or remote locations. They are rugged, lightweight, easy to handle, and often more affordable than fiberglass boats. When it comes to the best aluminum fishing boat makers, several brands stand out for their quality, performance, and features. Here are some of the top aluminum fishing boat manufacturers to consider:

- Lowe Boats: Lowe offers a wide range of aluminum fishing boats, including the popular Stinger series for bass fishing and the Fishing Machine series for walleye anglers. They are known for their quality and affordability.

- Tracker: Tracker claims to be America's best-selling aluminum fishing boat brand, with a large dealer network and complete package offerings.

- Crestliner: Crestliner boats are known for their deep-V hull designs, protective windshields, and all-welded construction. Their Discovery, Pro Tiller, Hawk, and Fish Hawk models are popular choices.

- Lund: Lund's aluminum fishing boats, such as the Baron and Pro-V lines, stand out for their performance and features. They offer deep-V hulls and high-speed capabilities.

- G3: G3 boats provide excellent value for money, with thick aluminum hulls and robust construction. Their Gator Tough Jon boat series is a notable option.

- Vexus: Vexus boats, like the AVX lineup, feature innovative all-welded aluminum hulls and impressive performance. They cater to serious bass anglers with ample storage and advanced features.

- Weldcraft: Weldcraft specializes in large aluminum fishing boats, ideal for offshore fishing. Their Cuddy King and Ocean King models offer spacious cabins and high levels of customization.

- Xpress: Xpress is known for its original all-welded aluminum boats, offering exceptional performance and durability. Their lineup includes the X21 Pro, H22 Bay, and XP200 models, catering to a range of fishing needs.

These brands represent some of the best aluminum fishing boat makers in the industry, offering a variety of models to suit different fishing styles and preferences.

Best Deep V Aluminum Fishing Boats

Aluminium fishing boats are a great choice for anglers, especially when it comes to smaller models. They are lighter, require smaller power plants, are easier to tow, handle and maintain, and are often cheaper than their fibreglass competitors. However, fibreglass boats do have their advantages, such as the ability to mould more complex hulls and integrate more features.

Deep-V aluminium fishing boats are ideal for anglers who need to venture out onto big lakes and bays where the conditions can be rough. The V-shape of the hull allows the boat to cut through waves with less pounding and spray. However, it's important to note that many small aluminium fishing boats don't meet the technical specifications of a true deep-V design, which is considered to be a hull with 20 to 21 degrees or more of transom deadrise (the angle of the V at the back of the boat).

Crestliner

Crestliner offers a range of deep-V models, including the Discovery, Pro Tiller, Hawk, and Fish Hawk. The transom deadrise on these boats ranges from 17 degrees to six degrees. Their boats feature protective windshields, with the Hawk models boasting tall wraparound windshields that shield the cockpit from wind and spray. Crestliner boats are constructed with all-welded hulls and offer significant customisation options.

Lund

Lund has a wide range of aluminium fishing boats, with 14 different model lines featuring relatively deep V-hulls. Their flagship Baron and high-end Pro-V lines stand out as top offerings in the deep-V category. For example, the 2275 Baron has a large size, with a 22'9" length and an 8'6" beam. It can reach speeds of up to 60 mph and carry up to 12 passengers.

Lund is also known for its bass boats, and while their aluminium deep-V lineup is limited, they are a great choice for anglers who want a ready-to-fish package. Their boats are sold with clear "no haggle, no hassle" pricing that includes prep and freight, ensuring no last-minute surprises.

G3

G3 boats are not cheap, often costing as much or more than competitors, but they offer excellent value for money. Their Gator Tough Jon boat series features beefy 0.10" thick aluminium hulls, camo paint job options, and Kodiak-coated steel trailers. G3 stands out for its construction quality and extensive features.

Lowe

Lowe is one of the biggest aluminium boat brands, offering a range of modified-V, Deep-V, Fish and Ski boats, and utility boats. They have a large network of dealers and benefit from economies of scale, often offering more competitive prices than their competitors. Lowe boats are known for their performance, customisation options, and spacious decks.

Tracker

Tracker claims to be America's best-selling aluminium fishing boat brand, and they offer complete packages that include the boat, motor, trailer, and a full suite of standard features at a clear MSRP. Their boats are ideal for anglers looking for a hassle-free purchase with everything included.

Best Aluminum Fishing Boats for the Money

Aluminum fishing boats are a great choice, especially for smaller models, as they are lighter, require smaller power plants, are easier to tow and handle, easier to maintain, and tend to cost less than their fiberglass cousins.

G3 Gator Tough Jon Boat Series

G3 boats are not cheap, but they deliver excellent value for money. Their Gator Tough Jon boat series features beefy 0.10" thick aluminum hulls, camo paint job options, and Kodiak-coated three-inch tubular steel trailers with detachable tongues. G3 boats offer superior construction quality and features, making them a stand-out choice.

Lowe

Lowe is one of the biggest aluminum boat brands and offers a wide range of models, including modified-V, Deep-V, Fish and Ski boats, and utility boats. They have a large network of dealers, and due to their high sales volume, they can offer competitive prices. When comparing similar models, Lowe often has a lower sticker price than its competitors.

Tracker

Tracker claims to be America's best-selling aluminum fishing boat brand, and for a good reason. They offer complete packages that include the boat, motor, trailer, and a full suite of standard features, all at a clearly listed MSRP. While some users have reported issues with newer models, Tracker boats provide excellent value, especially if you're solely looking at price.

Crestliner

Crestliner offers a range of deep-V aluminum fishing boats, including the Discovery, Pro Tiller, Hawk, and Fish Hawk models. These boats provide excellent protection from the elements with protective windshields, and some models feature tall wraparound windshields that shield the cockpit from wind and spray. Construction is all-welded, and they offer significant customization options.

Lund

Lund is known for its bass boats and aluminum deep-V lineup. They offer all-inclusive boat-motor-trailer packages with a long list of fishing and comfort features. Their pricing is clear and includes prep and freight, so there are no last-minute surprises.

Ranger

While Ranger is better known for its fiberglass offerings, they also build a full lineup of aluminum bass boats. Their aluminum boats carry less power than their fiberglass counterparts, but they can be rigged with various angling features like live-imaging fish finders, bow-mount trolling motors, and onboard battery chargers.

Vexus

The AVX lineup from Vexus boats stands out in the crowded aluminum bass boat market. Their all-welded aluminum hulls incorporate computer-modeled lifting strakes, integrated spray rails, and pad designs. Additionally, they feature "glass-infused aluminum hybrid" parts like recessed bow panels and steering consoles, eliminating many plastic pieces found in other high-end aluminum rigs.

Xpress

Xpress boats are designed with a pad hull and thick 5052 aluminum to accommodate maximum horsepower. Their X21 Pro model, rigged with a Yamaha F250, can reach top speeds of 73 mph, rivaling the speeds of fiberglass bass boats.

Starcraft

Starcraft offers a range of small aluminum boat options, including the SL series, which features a diminutive 12-footer. Their SF, SF DLX, Alaskan, Freedom, and Patriot models provide simple, easy-to-afford options with low price tags, minimal maintenance requirements, and ease of trailer, launch, and retrieval.

Duckworth

Duckworth builds some of the biggest ocean-going aluminum fishing boats, with lengths of up to 34'1". Their boats are ideal for fishing in big waters and feature full cabins, ample elbow room for anglers, and numerous fishing options.

Weldcraft

Weldcraft offers aluminum fishing boats similar in dimensions to Duckworth's, with lengths of up to 34'1" and widths of 9'6". Their larger boats can handle up to 900 horsepower and have 19 degrees of transom deadrise. They also offer long lists of optional features for customization.

Smoker Craft

Smoker Craft has a range of larger offerings, but their Angler series includes straightforward 14' and 16' models that come loaded with accessories. Even their smallest model can be outfitted with a bow-mount electric trolling motor, a factory-installed GPS/fishfinder, a seat slider, and more.

Best Small Aluminum Fishing Boats

Aluminum fishing boats have a lot of advantages over fiberglass boats, especially when it comes to smaller models. They are lighter, easier to tow and handle, require smaller power plants, and are easier to maintain. They are also usually cheaper than fiberglass boats.

Lowe

Lowe is one of the biggest aluminum boat brands, with a range of modified-V, Deep-V, Fish and Ski boats, and utility boats. They have a large number of dealers and sell a lot of boats, which means they benefit from economies of scale and can offer lower prices. Lowe builds Jon boats that range from 10 feet in length (for three people and a five horsepower engine) to 18 feet in length.

Smoker Craft

Smoker Craft has larger offerings, but the Angler series includes simple 14' and 16' models that come with a surprising level of available accessories. Even the smallest can be outfitted with a bow-mount electric trolling motor, a factory-installed GPS/fishfinder, a seat slider, and more.

Starcraft

Starcraft's small aluminum boat offerings include a 12-footer in the SL series. SF, SF DLX, Alaskan, Freedom, and Patriot models also come in small sizes, with low price tags, low maintenance requirements, and ease of trailering, launching, and retrieving.

Best Aluminum Bass Fishing Boats

Aluminum bass boats are extremely popular, and for good reason. They are compact, sturdy, and well-equipped for fishing. They are also lightweight, easily trailerable, and more affordable than fiberglass boats.

Crestliner MX21

As big and powerful as its fiberglass cousins, the Crestliner MX21 can be rigged with up to 250 horsepower. It features huge casting decks, a 45-gallon livewell, large tackle storage compartments, and twin rod boxes that hold a total of 10 rods. The hull is made of 0.125-inch gauge aluminum, and the boat has a fiberglass console with space for 12-inch flush-mounted electronics. The Crestliner MX21 is priced slightly under $53,000.

Lowe Skorpion 17

Lowe is a well-known manufacturer of bass boats, offering a wide range of models. The Skorpion 17 stands out for its easy affordability and great value, with a price starting at under $20,000. It features a modified V hull, an outboard motor with 20 to 60 horsepower, an aerated livewell, a foot-pedal-controlled trolling motor, and four comfortable seats. While it may not be the fastest bass boat on the market, the Skorpion 17 provides an excellent entry point into the world of bass fishing.

2075 Lund Pro V Bass XS

The 2075 Lund Pro V Bass XS is a serious contender in the world of bass fishing boats. With a price starting at slightly over $60,000, this boat offers seating for four people, making it perfect for families or those who want more space. It includes two large casting decks, bow and center rod storage, and a 28-gallon aerated livewell. The 2075 Lund Pro V Bass XS can be rigged with a potent 250 horsepower engine, making it a powerful and spacious option for bass fishing enthusiasts.

Ranger RT198P

The Ranger RT198P is an excellent choice for those seeking performance and value. Priced at around $39,000, it offers 150 horsepower, flush-mounted electronics, and a full range of fishing equipment. It features clever storage solutions, a retractable rod strap, a cooler, and center rod storage in the spacious front casting deck. The sleek appearance and color-matched trailer of the Ranger RT198P make it a head-turner on the water.

Tracker Pro Team 195 TXW Tournament Edition

Tracker is a leading builder of aluminum boats, and the Pro Team 195 TXW Tournament Edition is their premium model. Priced in the upper $30,000 range, it is capable of speeds in the 50s and comes fully rigged and ready for fishing. The package includes a Minn Kota 70-pound-thrust electric trolling motor, an onboard three-bank battery charger, a Lowrance HOOK2 Reveal 5-inch fishfinder, and a single-axle trailer. The Tracker Pro Team 195 TXW is an excellent choice for those seeking a powerful and feature-rich aluminum bass fishing boat.

Best Offshore Aluminum Fishing Boats

Aluminum fishing boats have a range of advantages over their fiberglass cousins, especially when it comes to smaller models. They are lighter, require smaller power plants, are easier to tow, handle, and maintain, and tend to be cheaper. However, as boats get bigger, fiberglass becomes a more popular choice, and most offshore fishing boats are in the mid-20-foot range or larger. As a result, there aren't many aluminum boats designed for offshore fishing.

That being said, if you are looking for an offshore aluminum fishing boat, here are some of the best options:

Duckworth

Built in Clarkston, Washington, Duckworth manufactures some of the largest ocean-going aluminum fishing boats on the market. Their largest boat boasts a 34'1" length, and their Offshore and Pacific Pro models feature full cabins with plenty of room for anglers and an extensive list of fishing options.

Weldcraft

Also built in Clarkston, Washington, Weldcraft offers the Cuddy King and Ocean King models, which are similar in dimensions to Duckworth's boats. Their larger boats can handle up to 900 horsepower and carry 19 degrees of transom deadrise, making them highly customizable with a long list of optional features.

Thunder Jet Pilot

The Thunder Jet Pilot is designed for rugged coastal water excursions, providing an incredible offshore fishing experience without sacrificing style or comfort. It features a full cabin with premium comfort.

Kingfisher

Kingfisher is a well-known brand of aluminum fishing boats, but they are known more for their looks and fancy paint jobs than for being the best boats. Their boats tend to have thinner aluminum, with 3/16" bottoms and 1/8" sides, and they use a lower-quality alloy. However, their boats are lighter and require less power and fuel.

Silverstreak and Lifetimer

Silverstreak and Lifetimer are mentioned by several boaters as being better options than Kingfisher. They use thicker aluminum (1/4" bottom and 3/16" sides) and a higher-quality alloy (5086), resulting in a significant difference in durability compared to Kingfisher.

Raider Boats

Raider Boats is another brand that manufactures awesome aluminum offshore boats in the Pacific Northwest.

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