Question:
Has anyone used one of many inflatable pontoon boats available such as
Missouri Pontoon Boat? I was thinking of trying one for the lakes and ponds
I've been fishing. Any recommendation as to models and manufacturers?
Any alternatives out there that are better?
Answer:
-I've used a lot of tubes and now use the Outcast "Fatcat" I think it's the
best going right now. Others to consider are the Buck's Bags models and the
J.W. Outfitters models. These are the best on the market. All the other
brands use inferior nylons. If you can afford any of these three brands,
you won't be sorry.
-I've rented Kingfisher Daytripper model pontoon boats several days over the
last two summers on the Missouri River below Holter Dam from the Missouri
RIver Trout Shop in Craig. The boats are theoretically controllable with
flippers, but my experience in the winds and currents of the river is that
the flippers are useless and the oars essential. This ofcourse can make
fishing from the boat difficult-- playing an 18 inch Missouri River 'bow
while trying to keep off of snags or out of the fishing area of others
teaches you new uses for your knees and elbows. On the other hand, the
Kingfisher is efficient as a means of getting from one wading area to
another, or as a casting platform anchored out of the stronger currents. And
there is plenty of room to lash a cooler, gear bag, extra rods, etc. When
last I used one last summer, the Kingfishers were almost two years old and
seemed to be holding up pretty well. My satisfaction with them is indicated
by the fact that I've already reserved one for three days in August.
-Besides Kingfishers, check out Bucks Bag models.
