Ins and Outs of Personal Pontoon Boats: Everything You Need to Know
Do you love spending time on the water? If so, a personal pontoon boat might be the perfect option for you. Pontoon boats are a fascinating and unique way to enjoy time with friends and family, and they offer many advantages over traditional boats. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of personal pontoon boats. We will cover everything from size and weight to price and features. By the end of this post, you’ll know everything you need to know about buying a personal pontoon boat!
An inflatable pontoon boat is an essential addition to extreme anglers, waterway explorers, and outdoor enthusiasts. They’re more long-lasting than a standard inflatable and don’t require the upkeep of a full-size vessel. They’re also relatively cheap, portable, and adaptable. But which one should you choose?
Inflatable pontoons come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, with unique designs and characteristics geared towards specialized activities. The majority of these inflatable boats are intended for fishermen, with comfy seats for extended periods of fishing, rod holders, and lots of storage space. Some are built to take an outboard motor, while others feature oars and a built-in electric motor.
We’ve compiled an incredible list of the top ten inflatable pontoon boat rigs on the market, ranging from tiny and compact options for lake sailing to big-capacity vessels that can hold two people and handle rougher water. Hopefully, something on this list catches your attention—but stay tuned for our buying guide and FAQ below if you still need additional pontoon advice.
Quick Picks: Ins and Outs of Personal Pontoon Boats
Top ten inflatable pontoon boat rigs on the market
Classic Accessories Colorado Inflatable Pontoon Boat
Classic Accessory is an excellent brand for people who like to spend time outdoors. They make good products for vehicles and recreation equipment. One of their best products is the Colorado Inflatable Pontoon Boat.
Colorado has everything you need for a fishing trip by yourself. There is plenty of storage space, with a lot of mesh pockets to put your things in. You can also adapt the rod holder mounts to fit what you’re using, and there is a sophisticated anchor system. The detachable patches are helpful, as is the foldable padded.
This watercraft is single-seated and built from 9 ft pontoons. It has a 400 lb capacity, making it perfect for casual trips. The frame is made from powder-coated steel tubing, and the pontoons are built out of heavy-duty abrasion-resistant PVC and Nylon. The oarlocks are made from bronze, and the 7’ oars are made out of aluminum. Its dimensions are 108” long, 56” wide, and 26” high, with an overall weight of 71.5 lbs.
This boat is perfect for avid fishermen who want a sturdy and reliable inflatable pontoon boat that sits high in the water and is reasonably priced.
Pros
Sea Eagle 375fc FoldCat Inflatable Fishing Boat
This is an inflatable pontoon fishing boat from Sea Eagle. It is a deluxe model that is made for two people. It has two chairs that turn, a place to put a motor, and a lot of storage space. This is good for people who want to have a fun day on the lake in comfort and style.
This pontoon boat is made from 1000 Denier reinforced PVC. It is held together by a folding aluminum frame that is strong enough to carry up to 650 lbs. It also has a casting bar, raised oarlocks, four-rod holders, and carry handles.
The Sea Eagle 375fc Fishing Boat is a total of 12’ 4” long, 4’ 6” wide, and weighs a total of 75 lbs. It can hold up to a three-horsepower gas engine for people who need more power, and it can be assembled in less than ten minutes.
If you like quietly traveling the rivers as a serious fisherman, this can be the boat for you. It is not, however, built for white water conditions.
Pros
Classic Accessories Colorado XTS Swivel Seat
The Colorado XTS Swivel Seat is the upgraded version of the thriving Colorado model. The two boats have the same DNA, but the XTS has more features that make it worth the price increase. It’s not an affordable option, but it’s worth it for the extra features.
This pontoon boat has two pontoons that are 9’ long. The pontoons are made from PVC and Nylon. They are strong, and the seams are reinforced. They are also resistant to heat and cold.
The impressive number of unique features makes this craft stand out. These include 20 storage pockets, drink holders, a six-way-mountable rod holder, an integrated anchor system with two positions, detachable storage and gear bags, stowable transport wheels, bladder repair kits, brass oarlocks that may be adjusted in place, a two-position motor mount with cushioning swivel chair.
The assembled size of this inflatable pontoon boat is 108” long, 56” wide, and 28” high. It weighs 80 lbs. overall. This is a premium product that is practical, versatile, and long-lasting.
Pros
Classic Accessories Roanoke Inflatable Pontoon Boat
After that, we have a smaller inflatable fishing boat from Classic Accessories. This is called the Roanoke model, a small and lightweight 8-foot pontoon boat constructed of sturdy and durable materials with a no-nonsense attitude. It’s at the low end of the price range, but it offers quite a lot for your money.
This compact pontoon boat has everything you want, including a powder-coated steel frame and two PCV and Nylon pontoon boats that can withstand high heat and severe cold. Apart from the plastic foldable seat, the Roanoke also includes armrest storage, zippered pockets, a rear storage platform, a mesh apron with non-slip footrests, and two 6’ 2-piece aluminum oars.
The Roanoke canoe has a 350lb capacity and is 96” long, 55” wide, and 29” high. It is made from lightweight materials and is 43 lbs in weight. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable ride that provides a good view of the water.
Pros
Sea Eagle 285 Inflatable Frameless Fishing Pontoon Boat Pro
The Sea Eagle 285 Frameless Pro is one of the best inflatable pontoon boats on the market. It is different from other pontoon boats because it doesn’t have a metal frame. The U-shaped pontoon and fabric floor make it very light and easy to transport. It only weighs about 42 lbs, which makes it very easy to take with you in your car!
The Frameless Pro boat has a clever hull design that allows it to carry up to 450 lbs. It is only a one-man boat, but there is enough room to store gear. The 360-degree swivel seat, two-rod holders and mounts, raised oarlocks, and motor mount that can accommodate engines of up to 3 horsepower make this an excellent boat for fishing.
The Sea Eagle 285 Inflatable Frameless Pro is 9 feet long and 4 feet wide. It’s also possible to attach a wooden floor if you need more stability on the water.
Pros
Classic Accessories Cumberland Inflatable Fishing Float Tube
This is not a pontoon boat in the traditional sense. It is a fishing float tube. It is a good choice for people who want the comfort of a pontoon boat but need the compact features and affordability of a smaller vessel.
The Cumberland Float Tube is a small, hydrodynamic tube that is made out of a U-shaped pontoon. It has a high chair for improved visibility and comfortable boating. The tube also comes with a wide range of comfort and fishing accessories, including zippered cargo pockets, drinks holders, two-rod holders, a seat-back pocket, and a large mesh storage platform.
The Float Tube is a strong PVC and mesh material. It is challenging for fishing and for most weather conditions. It is 56” long, 44” wide, and 19” high when it is assembled. The Float Tube weighs only 14 lbs., which makes it easy to store and transport. It is also a good value for the price.
Pros
Aquos PF380 FISHME Heavy Duty Inflatable Pontoon
This is the Aquos P380 FISHME, a durable and spacious inflatable pontoon boat that is perfect for fishing in choppy conditions. It has a heavy-duty platform that makes it ideal for larger vessels.
This pontoon boat is solid and stable. It has two large pontoons with four individual air chambers. This makes it easy for two anglers to fish at the same time without worrying about upsetting the boat.
The Aquos PF380 FISHME comes with a spacious and open fishing platform made of aluminum. If you want seats, they’re available as an extra option. Rod holders, multi-rod mounts, motor mounts, casting bars, and more may also be found there. There’s lots of room to fill in this 94” x 51” space. The PF380 FISHME can also bear a maximum load of 970 pounds!
The raft is a good choice for fishing because it is easy to transport and set up. It only takes thirty minutes to put it together, and it is much bigger than other rafts. It is heavier than the others, though, with a weight of 149 lbs.
Pros
Outcast Fish Cat 13 Pontoon Boat
The Outcast Fish Cat 13 is a great inflatable pontoon boat that fits two people. It is a high-quality product, but it is a reasonable price. This two-manned vessel is stronger and more durable than many others on the market. It can handle more dangerous conditions and stronger currents.
This inflatable fishing boat is built on a solid aluminum frame and has heavy-duty PVC pontoons. It can carry up to roughly 750 lbs of weight and has plenty of storage space. Plus, the frame can be taken apart to turn the boat into a one-man expedition vessel.
This pontoon boat is 13’ long and 5’ wide. It’s a big boat, but it’s perfect for people who want to do more adventurous activities on the water. It has a motor mount, optional oar types, and a swivel chair. The whole rig weighs 170 lbs. It’s heavier and more expensive than other boats on the market, but it’s definitely worth the money if you’re looking for some white water action.
Pros
Orvis Fish Cat 10-IR
The Fish Cat 10-IR is made from a durable and robust blend of PVC materials, including AireCell vinyl. It weighs only 68 lbs but has a maximum load capacity of up to 450 lbs. The standing area is constructed from a 12-piece steel frame that features a small chair and a lean bar for casting while standing.
The Fish Cat 10-IR is an excellent option for fly fishers. It comes with a motor mount, anchor system, and two 7’ 2-piece oars. When it is fully assembled, it is 10’ long and 56” wide. This makes it a spacious option that people will love.
Pros
Bucks Bags High Adventure 9-Foot Pontoon Boat
Bucks Bags is a brand name that makes quality outdoor products. They have been making these products for a long time, and you can trust them. One of their best products is their High Adventure 9-foot inflatable pontoon boat. This is one of the best inflatable pontoon boats on the market.
The High Adventure is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable and spacious kayak. It features a strong steel frame, PVC-coated polyester material, and internal vinyl bladders. Plus, it has plenty of storage space for all your equipment and gear. The maximum load capacity is 375 lbs.
The High Adventure also has an adjustable chair and footrests. It also has a stripping apron, 6’ collapsible oars, storage pockets, and light carry the weight of only 60 lbs. This makes it a practical and versatile inflatable pontoon boat. The dimensions of this boat are 96” long and 55” wide, making it an excellent option for people looking for a compact but comfortable pontoon fishing boat with motor mount features.
Pros
What You Should Know When Buying an Inflatable Pontoon Boat
What’s An Inflatable Pontoon Boat?
An inflatable pontoon boat is a primary watercraft that uses two inflated bladders to float. The metal frame holds the bladders together and also provides a deck for passengers. Inflatable pontoons are ideal for people who want to experience the excitement of traveling over water but don’t want the hassle or expenses of a full-size boat.
Inflatable pontoon boats can be inflated and deflated quickly. They are easy to store and transport. Pontoon boats are also very stable on the water.
- Uses of Pontoon Boat
Before purchasing a pontoon boat, you should ask yourself what you will use it for. Pontoon boats are often used by anglers who want to fish in the middle of the water instead of being stuck on the bank. If you are into fishing, there are many different types of fishing pontoon boats to research.
If you need more space, a larger boat will be ideal for you. But if you need something small and easy to move around in smaller waterways, a small single-seater might work better for you. It also depends on the kind of fishing you want to do. If you’re going to stand and fish, then a fly-fishing pontoon boat would be perfect for you.
Pontoon boats can be helpful for more than just fishermen. Wildlife photographers, ornithologists, and explorers can all use the easy maneuverability and stealthy nature of a pontoon boat to help them in their work. However, fly-fishers are the prominent people who buy these boats.
What are the Types Of Pontoon Boats?
- Single Seater Pontoon Boats
There are many different types of inflatable pontoon boats. The most common type is the one that is small and compact. It can hold up to 400 lbs. These boats are easy to transport and fast to assemble and disassemble. They also have a lot of pockets and storage space, as well as rod holders and other fishing accessories. Some even have motor mounts for trolling motors. There are budget options starting from under $200, and prices can go up to over $1000.
- Two-man Pontoon Boats
If you want to fish with a friend, an inflatable pontoon boat is a good choice. These boats are bigger and more stable than other types of inflatable boats. They can also hold more weight and have room for a bigger motor. However, they are more expensive, and you may need to register them with the authorities before using them. They are better suited for serious anglers.
- Highly Portable Pontoon Boats
Almost all inflatable pontoon fishing boats are portable, but there are a few that are built mainly for fast set-up and transportation. These kinds of vessels may be readily folded down into a lightweight backpack and carried on your back. They’re ideal for fishing in remote locations because of their mobility, but there are some drawbacks. Don’t anticipate padded swivel chairs, motor mounts, or a slew of rod holders; instead, think basic and no-frills. However, don’t be scared off — they’re great alternatives for people looking for something small, light-weighted, and simple to use.
- Float Tubes
There are two types of fishing float tubes. One is an inflatable pontoon boat. The other has a U-shaped pontoon with a chair for the angler to sit in. The tube is powered by the angler’s legs, which they use to steer and power the craft. Some tubes also have oars and oarlocks. These boats are suitable for fishing in calm waters. They are easy to use and small, so they are ideal for people who want to move around the water quickly. These boats do not have as many features as other fishing boats, but they cost less.
Construction Materials for Pontoon Boats
- Pontoons
Pontoon boats are often made with solid materials that can resist different weather conditions. PVC material is often used because it can withstand hot and cold temperatures as well as being submerged for long periods of time. Additionally, some pontoons have an extra layer of protection in the form of Nylon.
Pontoon boats are tough and durable. People don’t often report getting punctures. But when you’re buying a pontoon boat, you need to think about how the materials are put together. Some ways of putting them together are better than others. If the materials aren’t put together well, the boat might not last very long.
- Frame Construction
The deck of low-cost inflatable fishing pontoons is generally supported by a metal frame. Cheaper alternatives use powder-coated mild steel, which is solid and long-lasting but weighs a lot. More expensive choices might include an aluminum frame, which is lighter and more durable. These frames are frequently designed to be slotted and coupled together quickly for easy assembly and disassembly. A steel frame is the most excellent bargain if you’re searching for an inexpensive inflatable pontoon boat. Aluminum frames are even better, but they tend to be more expensive.
- Frameless Pontoon Boats
Some people think that the best inflatable pontoon boat is the frameless kind. These boats don’t have a frame made of metal. Instead, they have a lot of extra air bladders to support an inflatable deck. This makes them able to carry more weight and makes them more maneuverable and durable in white water conditions. Plus, they’re easy to store and transport because they don’t need a frame to assemble. The downside is that they are more expensive, but they are worth the extra cost.
Other Features To Look Out For
When buying a personal pontoon boat, it’s not just about picking the one you like the look of. You also need to consider the construction materials, shape, and other features. For example, fishing pontoon boats might have some features that would be useful for you.
Storage Pockets
When choosing a personal pontoon boat, it is essential to look at the storage options available. Most models have plenty of pockets and special recesses, and storage areas. It is a good idea to check the product images before buying to make sure that the boat in question has pockets and storage space where you need it!
Swivel Seats
Swivel seats can improve your fishing experience by giving you easier access to your surroundings. Some pontoon boats come with 360-degree swivel seats that make it easy for you to fish and cast in any direction you want. Swivel seats might not seem like a big deal, but they can make a big difference when you’re trying to catch fish.
Rod Holders
If you have an inflatable pontoon boat, then you need rod holders. Most one-man boats come with them, but it’s essential to check to see if they have multiple settings. Multiple positions are better, so you can adjust them to fit your needs.
Distress Equipment
Most pontoon boats don’t come with distress equipment, SOS signaling tools, life jackets, or other safety gear as standard. However, if you’re not a strong swimmer or exploring areas where danger may be lurking, it’s a brilliant idea to look for a boat with some integrated safety features or sufficient storage capacity to store safety equipment. It’s all about safety!
Motor Mounts
Not all inflatable pontoon boats have a motor mount. If you want one, make sure to check that the boat you’re interested in has a mount that can accommodate your motor. Many small boats can only handle a trolling motor of up to 3 horsepower, so be sure to double-check the specs before making your purchase.
Dimensions
Last, of all, make sure you know the dimensions of your pontoon boat. This includes both the packed dimensions and the assembled dimensions. Ask yourself if it will fit in the trunk of your car or on your trailer. It’s also important to consider your garage dimensions. Many people prefer to leave their inflatable pontoon boat assembled at all times and store it inside their garage when it’s not in use. Make sure you’re aware of the sizes so you can easily transport and store your new boat.
Legality: Is it Required to Register My Pontoon Boat?
Different states have different laws. You should check with your local authorities to find out if there are any rules for inflatable pontoon boats in your state. Some people think that because pontoon boats are simple, they don’t need to be registered. But that might not be true. For example, in California, even sail-powered boats over 8 feet long need to be registered with the DMV.
If you’re using a trolling motor to operate your pontoon boat, you’ll almost certainly need to register it with the DMV or receive documentation from the USCG. If you’re operating a motor of any sort—whether it’s electric, diesel, or petrol—you should assume that registration is required.
Registration Documents And Fees
If you live in a state or somewhere that requires boat registration, you will need a title to do so. The required documentation includes the manufacturer’s statement of origin or bill of sale, the application form for the title and registration, and other necessary fees.
In most states, there is a $50 title fee, as well as an average of $4.50 per square foot for the vessel’s hull. Depending on your location, regulations might be different. However, boat registration may take up to 10 weeks in busy seasons.
Steps To Inflate A Pontoon Boat
- Unpacking
Unpack your pontoons and carefully roll out and unfold them, inspecting for any holes or rips in the inflatable walls. Make sure to unroll your pontoons on a clean surface away from debris or jagged edges.
- Prepare The Valves
Remove the valve caps from the ends of each pontoon as directed by the manufacturer. This will allow you to access the inflation and deflation valves. Some valves have a spring and pin mechanism that opens or closes the air valves, although not all of them do.
To inflate the ball, push the spring inwards and turn the pin anticlockwise. This should lock the valve into position, allowing air to enter but not escape.
- Inflation
You will need a valve adapter, the pump hose, and the pontoon valve to inflate your pontoon. Connect the valve adapter to the pump hose, and then place the valve adapter into the pontoon valve. Pump air into the pontoon until it is inflated to around 2.5 psi in the central air chambers.
Considerations
The air in your pontoons can escape over time, so it’s essential to keep a pump nearby at all times. Additionally, the pressure in your pontoons can change depending on the weather. Avoid exposing your pontoon boat to extreme temperature changes to get the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions about Personal Pontoon Boats
To identify a battery for your inflatable pontoon boat, measure the depth of the battery box recess. A lightweight 12-volt motor battery is powerful and light enough to power all one-person pontoon boats. They’re also quite affordable.
The Minn Kota Endura 30 is a popular choice for small-water fishing enthusiasts. It has 30 pounds of thrust, which is more than enough for most inflatable pontoon boats. Also, it is compact enough to fit in your car’s trunk.
Pontoon boats can range in price from $15,000 to $175,000. The price of a pontoon boat depends on its size and accessories. We’ll break down how each choice may affect pricing below.
Mini bass boats are boats that are shaped like pontoon boats, but they are smaller in size.
Pontoon boats are great for families, fishermen, and people who want a versatile boat. They have a lot of space and are safe, so small children can be comfortable on them, and you can entertain a lot of your friends’ kids.
Three-tube pontoon boats are more comfortable and easier to handle. They also have a higher horsepower rating than boats with two tubes, making them better for watersports and high-speed activities.
Pontoon boats come in different lengths. The most common are 20-25’. This doesn’t mean that all boats are the same length, and each brand is the other.
Pontoon boats are good for inland lakes and rivers. But they can also be used on the ocean. People use them near the shore on calm days. That’s because you can be safe within a couple of miles of shore on calm days.
Pontoon boats do not hold their value very well in the first few years after you buy them. But they are still useful during that time. The depreciation will slow down after a few years.
Pontoon boats are usually very stable, but in severe storms with a lot of waves, they can be more dangerous than traditional V-hull boats.
Pontoon boats usually get around 3.5 mpg when going at MAX RPMs. But this number is possible to change depending on the weather, the boat’s weight and condition, how fast the pontoon boat is going, and what kind of engine the pontoon boat has.
I think that a 16 footer is too small for your needs. People call those little boats “pond jumpers” because they’re not good for anything else. You should look at boats in the 19 to 21-foot range that has a lot of power, like 90 hp or more. If you can’t afford a bigger boat
The fully integrated electric boat from GM can hold up to 10 passengers. It uses an automotive-grade battery pack and either a single or twin Pure Outboard motor. Prices start at $45,000 for the single outboard model and $65,000 for the twin outboard model.
Aluminum pontoon boats are a top choice for buyers because they are very durable. Repairs are usually easy and relatively inexpensive. In addition, aluminum pontoon boats last for many years, making them a wise investment.
Many people say that the best time to buy a boat is in the fall. Boat manufacturers usually offer discounts in September and October. This is because demand starts to go down at this time, and dealers want to sell their boats.
Pontoon boats are designed in a way that makes it very unlikely for them to tip over. In fact, it is very rare for them to flip over.
The biggest downside to this type of boat is its speed. It also can’t handle rough waters as well as other boats. The wake leaves behind are also wider, making it harder to do water sports.
Three-tube pontoons offer boat owners a wider range of activities while on the water. They also have a more stable ride and can go a little faster than traditional two-tube pontoons. If this is important to you, then the extra money may be justified.
Most pontoon boats can be safely navigated through water that is two feet deep.
Pontoon boats can go at different speeds, depending on the size and power of the engine. A smaller, 24-foot pontoon boat with a 115 HP engine can travel up to 25 miles per hour. A larger, 30-foot pontoon boat with a 115 HP engine might only travel as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Boat sizes 20 to 22-feet are suitable for lakes and rivers without big waves. They can seat up to 13 people. Boats 23 to 28-feet are ideal for lakes with rough waves. They can seat up to 15 people.
Fiberglass is a strong material that is as durable as aluminum. If your boat is made out of fiberglass, it will likely last for 20 years or more.
Can pontoon boats sink? Yes, they can. If they’re filled with water, they will sink. But if you don’t damage them, they will stay afloat.
If you want to sail a pontoon boat in the ocean, it is possible. However, it is not designed to go too far away from shore.