Pontoons – the comfortable way to fish…

Here’s a look at seven top models.

By Patrick Campeau

The most imposing family of fish in terms of length and weight that swims in our waters is the white sturgeon. It can grow to almost unbelievable sizes!

If all the marine vehicles found on our waterways, the pontoon is arguably the one that has seen the biggest sales boom.

These fine engineering creations are available on the market in lengths ranging from 13 to 30 feet. There are some that are even longer. The majority of these boats’ floors are attached to two or even three floats, also known as keels. In addition to being easy to drive, these floating galleries offer furnishings designed to make life easier, more comfortable and more enjoyable.  

Very stable, even in rough waters, it’s a great place for family and friends. Up to 15 people can sit and socialize.  Being spacious, it can accommodate and transport all the gear needed to enjoy the fine weather, as well as coolers for impromptu picnics.

Some models are equipped with one or two large engines. They can be used for speed and practising gliding water sports. On the other hand, most enthusiasts, however, prefer the cushy, pout-pout-pout of an idling outboard.

Some versions are even configured to make fishing easier. During my visit to the Montreal Boat Show last February, I met several people who specialize in this field. If you’re a fish-fighting enthusiast, here are a few floating vehicles that might interest you.

Armada

“The TopFish pontoon will appeal to both the rod handler and the boater. It’s the most versatile model in the Armada range. It adapts to all passions and will provide you with magical moments,” assures manufacturing agent Pierre Savoie. 

This series of seven-foot-wide boats comes in three lengths: 13’2”, 15’2”, 17’2”. There’s also one that Mr. Savoie says is very popular: the TF-168. At 17’2” long, it’s eight feet wide. Its .081“ thick aluminum tubes are 25” in diameter. There are even protective rails under them and anti-splash fins. Eight big-catch enthusiasts can fit inside. An outboard motor with a maximum force of 65 hp can propel this platform, whose deck has an overall length of 15’10”. There are three sheet-metal boarding doors, including a 32” wheelchair door. Other features include a ladder for hoisting out of the water, Classic furnishings with aluminum bases, two bunk benches forward and swivel fishing seats. There’s also a battery box, a ruler for measuring fish, two rod holders and a livewell with pump. To find out more about this Victoriaville-based company, visit www.armadamarine.ca

Princecraft

This well-known Princeville firm has been shaping boats for over 70 years. “Our employees use 5052-H36 aluminum alloy to manufacture all our floats, because it is 25% more rigid. The finished product is more durable, offers uniform strength and better performance,” says Dominik Grégoire of Desjardins Sport in St-Jérôme. According to this specialist, the Sportfisher LX 25-2RS has what it takes to hit the bull’s-eye. Measuring 25’9” in length, it can accommodate up to 175 hp on the hydrodynamic V-shaped motor mount, which reduces water friction while eliminating the problem of waves bumping against the structure. Among its many standard features are two rear-folding swivel seats, full instrumentation with tachometer, voltmeter, speedometer, trim and fuel gauges, and a Kicker AM/FM/Bluetooth radio with 4 waterproof speakers. The rear fishing station includes a 39 L oxygenated electric livewell, tool rack, fish ruler and 12-volt socket. The elegant console is made of fiberglass. There’s also a battery switch to shut off power to the boat. It can be fully customized to suit your tastes and needs, from an extra keel to engine power, furniture and accessories. Visit www.princecraft.com to find out more.

SunCatcher

“The Fusion 322 FC is equipped for fun, to maximize wonder and to help you and your family immortalize your finest fishing moments “, explains Marc-André Loyer, Regional Sales Manager for Yamaha’s Marine Division. In terms of technical specifications, it measures 22’6” and can seat up to 11 people. The maximum horsepower it can carry is 250 and its built-in 46-gallon fuel tank will save you repeated trips to the gas station. Among its many standard features are rotomolded furniture with rain channels, luxurious fishing chairs positioned at the four corners of the pontoon with plenty of storage and a sunbathing platform. Add to this its hydraulic tilt steering, analog gauges, pre-wired for a 12-volt electric motor and aerated livewells. A Garmin Echomap 53CV sonar/GPS will show you the position of the fish and the way back in the evening. The rod holders will free up your hands when trolling or travelling. To learn more about this product range, visit www.suncatcherpontoons.com.

Legend Boats

With its evocative theme of a family fishing together, the Flex 23’s layout combines a relaxation area with all the fishing amenities you could wish for. Available with two or three tubes depending on your needs, it can be fitted with a 40 hp motor up to 150 or 250 hp, depending on the configuration of the 25“ diameter, 0.080” thick keels. An impressive list of accessories is available for purchase including an extra-large bimini top with 1 1/4” anodized aluminum frame, wave-cutting front spikes, and the console features an automatic reset circuit breaker, horn, integrated sink, tilt steering wheel and removable tinted windshield. High-capacity aerated livewells with overflow protection keep your catch alive until release or the end of the day. Plus, there’s a stern fishing area, rod holders, removable table with integrated cup holders, AM/FM stereo radio with MP3 port and 2 speakers, oversized boarding ladder, and more. For more information, visit www.legendboats.com.

Sylvan

The name of this pontoon boat is very evocative for rod handlers; Mirage X3 Party Fish. This floating gallery embodies the perfect fusion of family fun and angler-centric functionality. Designed as a fishing pontoon to accommodate all family members, this vessel features the SPX Third Tube Performance Package, guaranteeing exceptional stability and maneuverability on the water. Built to meet the needs of passionate anglers, it features a dedicated fishing station with a 10-gallon livewell and convenient rod holders facilitating smooth experiences when catching fish. Whether it’s a serene day casting lures or a leisurely cruise with loved ones, the Mirage X3 Party Fish offers class-leading versatility and performance making it the ultimate choice for families looking for unforgettable moments of relaxation and angling on the water. With a length of 22’10’’ and a beam of 102”, this Sylvan is spacious enough to accommodate 12 people aboard. It can be equipped with a powerful 250 hp engine. It has a 38-gallon internal fuel tank. Its 25 foot tubes are .080” thick. Visit www.sylvanmarine.com to learn more about this model.

Starcraft

Here’s another watercraft that will appeal to rod handlers; the EX Fish 20 FD4. Designed for enthusiasts looking for both fishing success and family fun, this Starcraft pontoon boat perfectly combines harvesting functionality with comfortable entertainment areas. At the front, two swivel fishing chairs surround a convenient table allowing you and a companion to strategize your catch while enjoying a refreshing beverage. A dedicated lounge to rest offers a place to relax while the serious fishing action takes place at the back. A designated station features a built-in livewell to hold your catch. Strategically placed rod holders ensure your gear is organized and easily accessible. The driver benefits from a comfortable, low-back bucket seat for control during navigation while the stern features additional swivel fishing seats. This versatile layout allows everyone on board to share in the joy of catching predators. With two 25 foot tubes, the new owner can install a 125 hp outboard. However, if he opts to add a third keel, he can increase the motorization to 200 hp. At 20’10”, up to 10 people will be able to lounge on it. For fuel, there’s a 21-gallon internal tank. To discover the other features, take a look at www.starcraftmarine.com.

Avalon

One of Alary Sport’s friendly sales representatives in St-Jérôme was extolling the virtues of the Venture 2180 RF pontoon boat. The letters RF stand for Rear Fishing. “Avalon fishing pontoons offer the luxury you expect with the tools and technology to give you the trip of a lifetime every time you use it. Our amenities are specially designed for enthusiasts to make all your fishing trips successful and more enjoyable. All of our pontoons are built to the highest quality yet remain affordable, specified the expert. Available in 7.5’ or 8’ wide configurations, the Venture offers you Avalon’s 10-year warranty and a comfortable ride you won’t find in smaller fishing boats or runabouts. Venture is easy to tow, easy to operate and easy on your budget. So, enjoy activity sampling or a sunset cruise on your favorite small lake in one of our exceptional accommodations “. In addition to all its attributes and features, the RF is equipped with a rear fishing center with rod holders and livewell along with two chairs with lockable seat bases. For more information, visit the www.avalonpontoons.com site 

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