WHAT SMALL BOAT SHOULD I BUY???

[Comic21]

I am soon going to go housboating on Lake Roosevelt, and I have had trouble fishing in the past with their runabout boats because you can never get the right speed, and it is always so noisy. I was thinking about getting a small inflatable boat to take down with me when I go, but I just don't know which one I should get. If anyone has any suggestions on a boat, please tell me. I probably only need a boat that accomidates 2-4 people.

Thanks,
Comic21

[G-Man]

I suppose that we need a bit more information as to what the primary duty of the boat will be. Also, do you already own a small outboard and if so, what size? My first inclination would be to suggest getting a small Livingston or Sorenson. I know they are not inflatable, but they are very stable and handle choppy water quite well. I borrow my parent's 8 footer from time to time and it is no problem loading it in the back of the truck and towing it behind a houseboat won't be a problem either. I have an electric that I put on it, however I end up using the oars more often than the electric as I have more control when trolling.

[racfish]

I used to have a nice 10' Metzler with a 8.5 hp Honda on it. I used it for sockeye alot. It was comfortable enough even for me.I just couldnt stand in it.Get something with a floor board in it. The other nice smaller boat is a Livingston.

[clarkbre]

I agree with the last couple of posts. A Livingston or Sorenson would be good. Another idea is buy a cheap v-hull that is 10’ or 12’. You wouldn’t need much but could run just electric on it if you wanted. If you have a small outboard, you got it made. I’d stay away from the inflatable boats especially if you want more than 2 people in it.

Also, what kind of vehicle are you driving to the lake? If it’s a van or SUV, you could easily put up to a 12’ boat on the rack.

Another idea is to look at craigslist for canoes. They’re lightweight but could easily carry a couple people.

[rjn cajun]

I agree with the other fella`s I have a 10ft livingston that I fish out of for everything. Can`t afford a bass boat yet. I have a minnkota and a 8hp on it and I can put three grown men with gear and does fine with all of us standing.

[spindog]

8' x 4' stable, with wheels.
http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/us ... 56111&BASE