If you're just getting into sea fishing or you're pursuing a small fleet-buying dream, it all starts with the boat. Perhaps you've chartered a few vessels already and want to take the plunge with your small boat. The good news is there are more small boats out there on the waters than large ships, so you've got plenty to choose from. However, picking the right boat of any sort is always something of a trade-off. You'll have to think about the ideal size, design and build quality of your boat compared to its price. Here, we'll look at the best small boats for offshore fishing and how to run a small boat safely at sea.
Starting a small fleet or getting into sea fishing begins with the boat.
What is the smallest size fishing boat to take offshore?
Boat size isn't an exact science as different rules and regulations are in place worldwide. In general, however, small boats are generally considered to be under 64 ft (19.5 m) in length. Under UK law, a small fishing vessel is anything under 49 ft (15 m). This is still much too large for many people's needs. For this guide, we'll focus on boats under 22 ft (6.7 m) as this will allow you to trailer and store your vessel on land. As for how small you can go, there is no legal requirement. However, it isn't recommended to fish offshore with anything under 15 ft (4.5 m) in length. So, our recommendation is a boat from 15 to 22 ft (4.5 to 6.7 m). While some adventurous anglers have fished with smaller, these boats are at far greater risk when offshore. The sea can become very treacherous, with longer stints out on the open ocean best kept for boats over 30 ft long (9 m).
TIP: Size also influences the amount of time spent offshore. The less time spent, the less fuel. The same goes for speed and equipment used when fishing. Think about how long you plan to spend offshore as larger boats carry more fuel for longer journeys.
What size boat do I need for the ocean?
Offshore fishing means different things depending on the area. Inshore channels, bays and flats around the UK and European coast, for instance, provide adequate depth without sailing many miles offshore. Here, smaller vessels will do just fine. Other regions require you to travel many miles. In this case, larger boats are recommended. For the ocean, the larger the boat, the safer. In general, a length of 27 ft (8.2 m) is considered the smallest boat size for ocean crossing and serious offshore fishing. Sturdy builds and larger sizes provide more comfort, stability and safety - so opt for a deep hull and encapsulated keel if you're tackling true ocean fishing.
The benefits of using small boats for offshore fishing
Small fishing boats bring their challenges, but they're cheaper and easier to manoeuvre than larger vessels. The smallest boats can be towed and stored on land, adding to their versatility. You can then take your boat out in optimal, seasonal conditions without excessive mooring or marina charges. After all, the costs of owning a boat are more than the initial purchase. Smaller boats are budget-friendly and have lower insurance and maintenance costs. You can also use small boats for both waterways, inshore and offshore fishing, taking to the seas and enjoying trips out on lakes or closer to the coast.
Offshore fishing requires a special set of skills and knowledge. Image: Rodman
Knowledge and skills needed for small boat offshore fishing
Fishing offshore with a small boat requires a certain set of skills and awareness. You'll need to recognise the right conditions for offshore fishing, what your boat can handle and what gear to bring aboard. After all, offshore fishing can be dangerous for even the most experienced anglers.A common tip for small boat fishing offshore is to utilise a "buddy boat" scheme. This is where another boat or several more boats accompany you on your trip. This works as support with a second engine if you run into difficulties. At the very least, logging your departure and projected return with someone back at the coast is recommended.
What is the best small boat for offshore fishing?
Now that we've looked at the perfect sized boats, between 15 to 22 ft (4.5 to 6.7 m), what other features, build or design should you look for? This all depends on the kind of offshore fishing you're doing. In general, most anglers opt for an inshore vessel that can handle offshore fishing when necessary. Here are some aspects to think about:
Hull design
For small hull boats, a modified V-shape planing hull with a 17 to 20-degree angle provides stability for small boats. Larger trawlers utilise displacement hulls to move steadily through water and cope with rough seas. A semi-displacement hull is narrower than a planing hull, providing a steadier experience in rough waters, making it another favourite among smaller fishing vessels. You can also look at catamarans with their stable dual hull design as a solid option for offshore fishing.
Beam width
Wider beamed boats provide greater stability but less agility. You'll get a more stable platform for optimal angling. This is particularly useful for centre console designs to provide ample space.
Full-depth keels
Boats designed for offshore use require full-length deep centre keels of 3 ft (1 m). Shallower keels will give you the ability to navigate inshore and waterways easily but are less seaworthy in comparison.
Full transom
Transom height is crucial to keeping your small boat dry. To avoid the ocean spray from overwhelming your boat, opt for a boat with a full transom. If your transom is low with no well, keep to the coast.
Cuddy
As you'll be spending a significant amount of time on the water, a cuddy cabin is recommended. You can choose a useful removable cuddy design to provide open space for fishing when required. Cuddies can be adapted with coolers, rod holders and chairs for comfortable fishing.
There are many brands out there to start with and find the right one. Image: Pursuit boat
Brands of a small fishing boat
There are plenty of brands out there to begin your search with and find the perfect fishing boat for you. As there is no universal best boat, you always have to make a trade-off between cost, weight, size, shape and design. Here are some of the best performing brands/models of small fishing boats for sale:
Pursuit
Pursuit is an iconic centre console boat brand with many offshore options, including both the OS range and C 310. These are fairly lengthy boats over 30 ft (9 m), but it's competent at tackling rougher waters and come with a range of fishing features, including pull-out tackle centres and an insulated fish box.
Arran
Arran boats are a small Scottish-based brand focusing on fishing vessels. Options like the Arran 16 are super compact with open deck space and good running costs. Easily towed on-road, they feature a displacement hull and removable cuddy.
Cheetah
Cheetah produces fishing boats ranging from 19 ft (6 m) to 36 ft (11 m). Coveted by recreational fishermen for their soft and stable ride, Cheetah boats come with plenty of carrying capacity for a day's fishing.
Trophy
Trophy specialises in sports fishing boats that are economical and affordable. You can pick from the centre console or walkaround boats. The smallest design is 19 ft (5.7 m) in length but still provides an enviable co*ckpit and storage capacity for coastal fishing.
Powercat
Powercat produces fine wheelhouse boats for offshore fishing with spacious galleys. The dual hulls and dual outboard engines make it efficient and fast at safe and stable offshore sailing. The Powercat 525, in particular, is just over 17 ft (5.25 m) in length for a compact, seaworthy fishing boat.
Boston Whaler
Boston Whaler is a manufacturer that's renowned for its heavy builds for safe offshore fishing. The 230 Outrage is the smallest in the series at 23 ft (7 m). It comes with a fishing package complete with a fishing station, fish box and transom-mounted rod holders.
Safety tips and equipment for efficient salt-water fishing trips
A boat's construction, size and design aren't the only influence on its seaworthiness - it's also about the equipment onboard. Here is a checklist for the gear you'll need:
- Line: If you need towing, you'll need lots of lines.
- VHF radio: A fixed-mount radio is recommended for offshore fishing as they offer extended ranges of up to 20 miles.
- Outboard engines: For safety, twin or triple outboards are recommended.
- Additional battery: A spare power source or dual-battery system is necessary in case one battery goes dead.
- Sea anchor: Depending on your boating size and space, an anchor can be used when fishing to secure your boat if broken down.
- Emergency equipment/supplies: Ensure you follow all the legal guidelines and stock your boat with life jackets, emergency kits with flares and a good flashlight.
Fishing at sea requires extra preparation and expectations to stay safe.
Final tips and advice to get started angling with a small boat
When choosing your small offshore fishing vessel, you'll want to gear your purchase to the specific criteria you require. Broad beams, bow flare and plenty of sea-cruising capability are a must. You then need to set your budget and decide if you're buying new or old. One of the most important aspects of fishing safety is tracking marine forecasts to know what to expect. Never venture out with heavy or even moderate winds, and check each morning for revisions in weather forecasts. You can do just as much with a small boat as you can with a larger vessel. All it takes is some extra preparation and expectation to stay safe when fishing at sea.
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