When selecting a pontoon boat, look for one at least eight feet long; shorter and they’re much more difficult to keep straight when moving on the water. Consider the boat’s weight capacity in making your choice as well, considering both your anticipated needs as well as the trade-offs of a heavier craft. Sit in any boat before you purchase it to make sure that it is comfortable and that the footrests and seat position can be adjusted to your individual preferences. I like a boat with a built-in anchoring system incorporated into the frame as it makes raising and lowering the anchor a much easier proposition.
When it comes to oars, longer tends to be better on lakes or slow-moving rivers, where distance and speed are important and obstacles are few. 7 ½-foot oars are well-suited here. On faster-flowing rivers, where you may need to make many rapid and frequent course adjustments, you’ll find that slightly shorter oars, in the 6 ½- or 7-foot range, are less cumbersome. Some pontoon boats have a transom that allows you to mount a trolling motor. This may be a feature you want if you’ll be fishing predominantly on lakes. Other options to look for include side dry-storage bags, drink holders, coolers, rod holders and stripping aprons.
You need to decide for yourself which are important based upon your specific fishing style and locations, though they can always be added later if you feel the need. Lastly, get yourself a long-handled net as it will make landing fish much easier.
