First, the caveats. The real answer to this question depends on you and your fishing likes and dislikes and so I can't give an outright answer. But I can describe most of the variables that may make a difference for you. Although most of my experience has been on catarafts because I have been building, testing, driving and riding these boats since 1990, I have had experience on all three common types of watercraft used for trout fishing over my 40 plus years of flyfishing for trout and other species on rivers, lakes and the inshore salt. I should also say that I chose to design and build the cataraft style fishing boat because it matched my particular personality and requirements. That doesn't mean it will match yours. But, there are some very basic differences between the three boat styles that should be understood when deciding which type boat to purchase. I'll try to summarize these here and then elaborate further down the page on those items that I think could use more explanation.
Also, bear in mind that these ratings are largely a matter of opinion. Yours may differ and that's fine. In fact, if you think I made any bad calls in here please tell me where and explain your reasons. Despite my experience on the water I'm sure there's plenty left for me to learn. What it comes down to is all boats are actually pretty cool because they float on water and that's where fish live. But some are going to work better for you and some worse. Your boat can be a pleasure to own that consistently gives you access to the finest fishing opportunties - or it can be a pain in the ass that constantly gets in the way of those opportunities. At some point you gotta make your choices and take your chances. I hope this info helps.
Drift Boat |
Raft |
Cataraft |
|
Ability to handle technical whitewater |
not so good |
good |
best |
Ability to handle big whitewater |
not so good |
good |
best |
Low water - ability to slide over rocks and gravel |
not so good |
good |
best |
Ability to operate effectively using an outboard motor |
possible but ungainly |
OK |
pretty darned good |
Ability to operate effectively using an electric motor |
possible but ungainly |
pretty darned good |
pretty darned good |
Trailering required |
always |
optional |
optional |
Can be packed down small for transport or storage |
no |
yes |
yes |
Require attention and care on the water |
not much |
yes |
yes |
Require attention and care during transport and storage |
not much |
yes |
yes |
What paying clients expect to ride in |
almost always |
sometimes |
sometimes |
I'm working on the rest of this. Please email me if you have suggestions or would like to add your 2 cents. It's an interesting topic for sure.
