Have you ever dreamed of casting a line out on the open water, but your wallet whispered, “Not today”? You’re not alone! Many anglers long for the freedom of a fishing boat but get stuck when prices soar. Finding a reliable, affordable fishing boat feels like searching for buried treasure—it’s exciting but often frustrating.
The truth is, owning a boat shouldn’t break the bank. Too often, people assume “cheap” means “low quality,” leading to boats that leak, break down, or just aren’t safe. You want to spend your time fishing, not constantly fixing a leaky hull or worrying about the engine.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you smart ways to find excellent, budget-friendly fishing boats. You will learn what features matter most, where to look for great deals, and how to avoid common pitfalls so you can launch your dream boat without emptying your savings account.
Top Cheap Fishing Boat Recommendations
- Durable: Our patented RAM-X material is known for its high-impact resistance and will make your fishing boat last through time.
- High Capacity: This fishing boat holds a maximum weight capacity of 420 lb, ensuring you enough room to bring someone along on your fishing trip and space for all your gear. Its spacious interior can contain up to 36 cubic feet of cargo.
- Safe: This boat is designed to provide excellent stability and balance when you're casting lines and reeling in fish. Our unique manufacturing process allows us to include additional flotation inside the hull of all of our fishing boats in order to meet or surpass ABYC standards.
- Two Metal Motor Mounts: Featuring a built-in metal bow trolling mount and stern motor mount, the INTRUDER 12 is ready to take your choice of electric or gas motor (maximum 6 HP).
- Oarlock Receptacles: This boat also features two oarlock receptacles on either side.
- NOTE: 1. Acetone and other chemicals will destroy the adhesive, so preparing the surface with clean water is enough. 2. An overheated surface will also destroy the adhesive. Please apply the ruler sticker at night or cool down the surface to under 95 Fahrenheit degree/35 Celsius degree in advance.***
- Easy to Use - Simply peel and stick, the ruler sticker can be lifted off and repositioned again without residue, fits any solid smooth surface.
- Easy to Read - The adhesive measuring tape is clearly printed, large numbers, black text on a white background
- Waterproof and Easy to Clean - The adhesive tape measure is covered with a PET laminate with UV screening to protect from weather and sunlight, which is durable and easy to clean
- Extra-long 40 Inches - This fish measuring sticker features 1/4 markings and is extra-long at 40 inches. Great for use on fishing rods, spears, gunwales, tables at craft rooms/sewing workrooms, etc.
- HOOK FISH, NOT PARENTS: A revolutionary bobber system that covers the hook when casting, the Shakespeare Hide-A-Hook Bobber will help little anglers hook fish, not parents.
- WEIGHTED DESIGN: The Hide-A-Hook fishing bobber features a weighted design to help kids make long and easy casts with less risk of developing tangles in the line.
- WEEDLESS CONSTRUCTION: These weighted bobbers feature a weedless construction that helps keep them from snagging on plants, structures and heavy cover.
- PRE-RIGGED FOR EASY FISHING: This 3-pack of bobbers comes pre-rigged so you can spend less time setting up and more time on the water with your little ones.
- SINCE 1897, Shakespeare has been the leader in quality, affordable fishing tackle. With 115 years of passion and experience, we offer something for the whole family and to all levels of experience.
- SUPER-STRONG – SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior strength and durability, ensuring high impact and abrasion resistance.
- DUAL BOSTON VALVES – Located on the side of the boat, the boston valves on two main hull chambers will provide easy quick inflation and fast deflation.
- EXTRA STORAGE – Extra space in the bow and stern allows for storing any necessities for your adventure; stainless steel D-rings also allow the safety and ease of tying down dry bags and gear.
- SPACIOUS – With an inflated size of 10'4" x 5'5" x 1'5" and a maximum weight capacity of 1100 pounds, the Excursion 4 blow up boat is large enough to sit four adults comfortably.
- ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 54 inch boat oars, two detachable fishing rod holders, gear pouch, carry bag, high-output pump and a repair patch.
- LOW BATTERY REMINDER：When the boat is in a low power state, the remote control will emit a warning tone to prevent boat loss.
- STRONG WIND RESISTANCE：Single streamlined boat hull design, with waterproof treatment for the entire boat, can effectively prevent various seepage
- LARGE CAPACITY：Large capacity bait tank, with a loading capacity of about 3.3 lb, can be used for fixed nesting. At the same time, the rear silo is equipped with hook attached design, which can send hooks and release lines for efficient fishing.
- AUTOMATIC CORRECTION OF YAW：Built-in automatic balance system, which can help to automatically correct the yaw and ensure that the boat keeps driving straight under the wind/waves and load.
- SEARCHLIGHT FOR NIGHT FISHING：Two front light and two light turn signal lights enhance the range of night time fishing vision, and making it easy to distinguish the direction of navigation
- EXCITING FISHING CLUB BUILDING SET: Immerse yourself in thrilling sea fishing activities! HiWEEGO city fishing boat and wharf model set includes a floating fishing boat, a pier with a seafood market, a speedboat, two cranes for lifting fish cages, a floating flag, five containers for fish and many marine creatures, providing kids a wonderful experience of real sea fishing and stimulating their interest in the ocean world
- LARGE BOAT DOCK SET: This floatable fishing boat block set includes a large fishing boat measuring 16.7 inches in length, 4.9 inches in width, and 5.5 inches in height, and a dock with 7.7 inches in length, 5.1 inches in width, and 3.7 inches in height. All 762 pieces building bricks are made of safe materials, and come with easy-to-follow instructions for children to build easily, attracting kids to challenge this fun city boat set toy
- LARGE BOAT DOCK SET: This floatable fishing boat block set includes a large fishing boat measuring 16.7 inches in length, 4.9 inches in width, and 5.5 inches in height, and a dock with 7.7 inches in length, 5.1 inches in width, and 3.7 inches in height. All 762 pieces building bricks are made of safe materials, and come with easy-to-follow instructions for children to build easily, attracting kids to challenge this fun city boat set toy
- EDUCATION BUILD SET: HiWEEGO sea fishing ship building model is not only a great educational playset, but also a fun role-playing toy. Kids can use various tools on the boat to catch different fish from the ocean, and then sell their seafood at the seafood store on the pier. This boat set can develop children's creativity and fine motor skills, also introduce children to the mysterious world of the ocean and various fish species
- CREATIVE GIFT & DECORATION: This deep-sea exploration boat building kit is an excellent gift for boys and girls over 6 years old who want to become captains on birthdays, Children's Day, Christmas, and other special occasions. The assembled realistic fishing ship is not only a fun floatable boat toy for children, but also an exquisite decoration for rooms, offices, or bookshelves, adding a feeling of ocean style to any space
- Master GPS Precision: Lock Fish Hotspots with this RC Bait Boat.Youpinpoint casts are history,Command this GPS bait boat to lock onto fish hideouts, plot 4 waypoints, and auto-return home. Our fishing bait boat uses advanced GPS for surgical bait boat for surf fishing accuracy. Drop chum exactly where big fish lurk,no more blind casting.This rc bait boat is your surf fishing game-changer. Experience ultimate bait boat for fishing control & precision.
- Unbeatable 550-Yard Control: Your Rugged RC Bait Boat Commands the Water,Fear zero signal drops, This powerful rc bait boat boasts a massive 550-yard interference-proof range. Your fishing bait boat auto-returns instantly if the signal weakens or batteries dip,it practically self-rescues. Built tough for shore anglers battling wind and waves, this bait boat for fishing delivers unshakeable rc boat control. Trust your rc bait boat to reach distant honey holes. Own the water with this long-range bait boat.
- Smart Bait Dropping System: Outfish Them All with this RC Fishing Bait Boat.This fishing bait boat carries a huge 4.4lbs in 3 separate bait chambers. Deploy pellets, groundbait, or boilies on-demand with the remote. Transform any spot into a fish frenzy with rc bait boat precision. Waste zero expensive chum thanks to the bait boat's targeted dropping. This rc boat system is pure fishing intelligence. Elevate your bait boat for fishing strategy instantly.
- Tank-Tough & Tangle-Proof: The Ultimate Heavy-Duty RC Bait Boat.Crush weeds, waves, and anything the water throws.Engineered with virtually unbreakable heavy-duty ABS armor, tangle-free propellers, and fully sealed electronics, this rc bait boat is built insanely tough. This bait boat laughs at rough conditions. It's the last, most durable fishing bait boat you'll ever need.
- Fish Longer with Dual Battery RC Bait Boat Power.Fish ALL day, non-stop, Dual massive 5200mAh marine batteries deliver 4+ hours of relentless rc bait boat action. Need more? Hot-swap batteries in seconds without powering down. your fishing bait boat never sleeps. Solve the bait boat stamina problem forever. This powerhouse rc boat ensures you outlast the fish. Maximize your bait boat for fishing time. Unlock endless fishing with this long-running rc bait boat.
- SUPER-TOUGH – 3-ply laminate construction combined with SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior structural strength and unmatched resistance to damage from abrasion,impact and sunlight, while allowing more pressure for rigidity
- TRIPLE AIR CHAMBERS – Three air chambers, including one inner auxillary chamber for added safety to keep you afloat; inflation and deflation is made easy constructed with two quick-fill Boston valves to get you on the water faster
- ACCESSORIES – Included with (2) 54-inch boat oars for easy paddling, (2) built-in fishing rod holders, a motor mount fitting, welded-on oar holders, grab handles on each side and an all-around grab line for convenience
- PUMP INCLUDED – The water is calling to get out there and explore; simply inflate the Mariner 4 raft in just minutes with the convenience of the high-output hand pump
- WEIGHT CAPACITY – Boating and fishing is always better with a pal, the Mariner 4 recommended capacity is perfect for four adults, holding up to 1100 pounds in weight
The Smart Shopper’s Guide to Cheap Fishing Boats
Finding a great fishing boat without spending a fortune is possible. You need to know what to look for. This guide helps you find a reliable, cheap fishing boat for your next adventure.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an affordable boat, focus on these important features first.
Size and Capacity
- Boat Length: Smaller boats (under 14 feet) are cheaper to buy and store. They work well for calm lakes and small rivers.
- Passenger Limit: Check how many people the boat safely holds. Don’t overload a small, inexpensive boat.
Stability and Hull Type
The hull is the main body of the boat. It affects how the boat floats and handles waves.
- Flat Bottom Hulls: These are very stable in calm water. They are usually cheaper. They don’t handle big waves well.
- V-Hulls (Slight V): These cut through small chop better. They offer a slightly smoother ride but might cost a little more than flat bottoms.
Storage and Features
Look for basic, functional storage. Extra fancy features drive up the price.
- Simple bench seats or basic storage compartments are usually enough for a budget boat.
- A place to mount a small trolling motor is a must-have for quiet fishing.
Important Materials for Durability
The material affects the boat’s lifespan and maintenance needs. Cheap doesn’t have to mean weak.
Aluminum Boats
Aluminum is the king of budget fishing boats. It is lightweight, strong, and needs very little upkeep. Aluminum boats resist dents better than you might think. They are easy to transport on a small trailer or even strap to a roof rack.
Fiberglass (Older/Used)
You might find older, smaller fiberglass boats cheaply. Fiberglass offers a smoother ride. However, older fiberglass needs careful inspection. Check for “blisters” or soft spots in the material.
Plastic/Rotomolded Boats
These are often the absolute cheapest option. They are very tough and almost impossible to sink or puncture. They are great for solo fishing in shallow water. They are heavier than aluminum for the same size.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality on a budget comes down to how well the boat was cared for and its initial design.
Quality Boosters
- Good Rivets/Welds: If the boat is aluminum, check all seams. Strong welds or tight rivets mean the boat will last longer.
- Good Transom: The transom is the back wall where the motor attaches. It must be solid. A weak transom is dangerous when you attach an outboard motor.
Quality Reducers
- Heavy Patching: Too much patching on a used boat suggests past major damage.
- Corrosion (Rust/Oxidation): Look for excessive white powder on aluminum (oxidation) or deep rust on steel parts. This means the boat was stored poorly.
- Soft Spots: On any hull, push down on the floor and sides. If it feels spongy, water has gotten inside the structure, reducing its quality significantly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where you fish most often. This decides the best cheap boat for you.
Pond and Small Lake Fishing (The “Jon Boat” Life)
For calm, protected waters, a simple, flat-bottomed aluminum Jon boat is perfect. They are very stable when you stand up to cast. You only need a small electric trolling motor or a tiny gas engine (like 5 HP).
River Cruising (Moving Water)
If you fish rivers, you need a little more hull shape to handle currents. A shallow V-hull aluminum boat works better. You must always watch for submerged rocks and logs.
Portability is Key
Many cheap boats are small enough that you do not need a full trailer. You can often load them onto a truck bed or use a simple dolly. This saves hundreds of dollars in registration and trailer maintenance.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Fishing Boats
Q: How cheap is “cheap”?
A: You can often find used, smaller aluminum boats (10-12 feet) for under $1,000 if you are willing to clean them up a bit.
Q: Do I need a trailer for a cheap boat?
A: Not always. Many small boats (under 14 feet) are light enough to transport on a vehicle roof rack or in a pickup bed without a dedicated trailer.
Q: Is a used boat always lower quality?
A: No. A well-maintained, older aluminum boat is often better than a brand-new, poorly made plastic boat.
Q: What engine size do cheap boats usually take?
A: Most small Jon boats are rated for 5 to 10 horsepower (HP) gas motors, or they work perfectly fine with a 30-55 lb thrust electric trolling motor.
Q: What is the biggest risk when buying used?
A: The biggest risk is hidden structural damage, especially rot in wooden components or serious leaks in the hull seams.
Q: Are cheap boats safe in choppy water?
A: Generally, no. Cheap, small boats are best used on calm water, like ponds or small, protected lakes. Big waves can easily swamp them.
Q: How do I check for leaks before buying?
A: Ask the seller to let you put water in the boat for a few minutes, or at least inspect the hull carefully for any signs of old sealant or wet spots.
Q: What maintenance do these boats need?
A: Mainly cleaning and checking the motor mounts. Aluminum boats need very little other than rinsing off saltwater if you use them there.
Q: Should I buy brand new or used?
A: For the lowest price, buy used. You get more boat for your money by letting someone else take the initial depreciation hit.
Q: Can I fish standing up in a cheap boat?
A: Yes, especially in a flat-bottomed Jon boat. They offer excellent stability for casting, even in smaller sizes.