What to Look For in a Sport Fishing Boat For Ultimate Comfort

The decision to purchase a sport fishing boat is a major one that shouldn’t be made lightly. Most sport fishing boat owners have owned boats before. And at the very least, they’ve sunk a ton of time into research and discussions with those in the industry. They’ve learned about the serious economic requirements of owning one of these boats, and have thought long and hard about how the boat will be used and where it will be stored.

Here are some things to think about along your journey of choosing a sport fishing boat:

Size Considerations

The size of your new boat will be one of the most important initial decisions you make. If you plan on driving and managing the boat yourself without a crew, you’re probably looking for something under 50 ft. If you’re open to keeping a crew, you’ll be able to go bigger, bring more people aboard and take longer overnight trips.

Finding a slip in a marina or elsewhere is another challenge. If you already have a slip, what’s the maximum length it can hold? If you don’t already have a slip, you’ll need to ensure you can secure a large space before you splurge on the large boat.

The size of your boat will determine which kind of fishing it’s best designed for as well. If you want to head out into the open ocean with rougher conditions, you’ll need a craft that’s 25ft+. And if you’re after extra large fish like tuna, you’ll want to aim a lot bigger.

Fishability on Deck

A good fishing boat is “fishable” from numerous areas onboard. Being able to easily move around on deck in the pursuit of fish is a nice benefit, without having to trip over gear or climb over unpathed sections of your boat.

The best sport fishing boats are fishable from anywhere, offering 360-degree fishability. If this kind of fishing experience is what you’re after, the Pursuit Center Console Collection is an excellent choice. With boats ranging from 25 to over 37ft. These boats have a center console design, allowing for lots of seating and 360-degree maneuverability.

Boat Construction

You’ll notice that specialized sport fishing boats will have certain construction features that allow them to perform at a higher level, while keeping everyone onboard safe. The material is probably the first thing you’ll notice. Some fishing boats are made with aluminum, which provides durability in shallow waters. But most sport fishing boats – including all Pursuit models– are made with fibreglass for a smooth journey in open waters.

On deck, there are numerous other features to watch for:

Deep cockpits that allow those onboard to lean over the edge safely
Special slip-proof flooring
Sloped decks with scuppers for naturally draining water
Well-padded perimeters to protect those leaning against gunwales
Deep hull for guiding anglers through choppy waters
Flush surfaces throughout, which help prevent lines from catching
Transom doors for hauling in large catch

Plentiful Power

The power of your sport fishing boat is important – especially when you’re out on the water with multiple bodies on board. Size is usually a good indicator of performance and power, but not always. You’ll want a boat that’s powerful for its size, in order to avoid sluggish performance when it’s filled to the brim with fishing gear and passengers.

If maximum power is what you’re after, the S 428 Sport is Pursuit’s flagship center-console model that generates up to 1,800 horsepower out on the water thanks to quad Yamaha 425 XTO engines. In the S 428, performance will never be in question.

Fishing Features

It’s not a sport fishing boat without fishing features that help you get the job done out on the water. Of course, you can fish from any boat. But if fishing is a central purpose for your new boat, you’re going to want all the bells and whistles that will make your experience incredible.

Fish storage is one must-have. You’ll want well-insulated and aerated live wells for keeping your catch alive, and large stainless steel boxes to preserve your catch over ice. Then you’ll need secure rod holders in different areas of your boat, plus outriggers for spreading fishing lines.

Most Pursuit models have hardtop-mounted rod holders and outriggers made with stainless steel bases, full-motion crank control and carbon fibre poles.

Navigation Tech

Navigation is vital in any boat, but your sport fishing boat should be equipped with that extra layer of navigation to help you monitor what’s going on under the water. Aboard a fishing boat, you’ll want a GPS chart plotter, sonar transducer or fish finder, VHF radio, marine radar and more.

Each and every Pursuit sport fishing model is equipped with a Garmin® Electronics Package. Top of the line navigation equipment will allow you to see where you’re going in any condition while pursuing your next catch with ease.

Finding a Sport Fishing Boat in Victoria

If you’re looking for a sport fishing boat, it’s hard to beat the innovation and excellence of a Pursuit, with 70 years of hand-built history. To find a Pursuit boat or any other make, contact our yacht broker at Van Isle Marina, who can help with buying, selling and trading.

Alternatively, browse our collection of new and pre-owned boats on our website.