Fishing is a way for many people to relax and unwind. It’s also a way for some people to stoke their competitive fire.
Aluminum bay boats are increasingly popular due to their lightweight, low-maintenance nature.
No matter what fishing represents to you, choosing the right bay boat to take on your excursions is a critical decision, and we’re here to assist you in getting it right.
Read on to find out about the best aluminum bay boats out there.
The 5 Best Aluminum Bay Boats
Here are some of the best aluminum bay boats on the market.
1. Alumacraft Trophy 205 – Best Overall Choice
When it comes to aluminum bay boats, the Alumacraft Trophy is widely considered as arguably one of the best ever built.
It’s a vehicle that’s well suited for every occasion. If you intend to take it for the occasional ride every weekend, this boat will always be there for you. Its heavy-gauge construction makes it rugged and built to last.
For those on the other end of the spectrum, this boat is also an excellent choice. If you’re someone who is constantly roaming the waters, this boat will be your trusty sidekick.
Its 300 HP engine will have you zooming through the water at breathtaking speeds. In addition to this, the Alumacroft has a wealth of space for storing your fishing gear. It also features not one, but two comfortable chairs for you and your company.
Pros
- Elite performance thanks to its 300 HP engine.
- Packed with handy features, including a lockable 8 inch rod compartment.
- Built to last with heavy-gauge aluminum construction.
Cons
- Lacks coverage, so it can get a bit cold when the climate is on the chilly side.
2. Lowe V1260 – Best Budget Choice
If you’re a casual fisher and don’t want to go overboard (no pun intended) when buying a bay boat, the Lowe V1260 is just for you.
This boat keeps it simple with its minimalistic dimensions and engine power. At only 12 ft and 10 HP, the V1260 is a great choice for those who don’t want to break the bank.
However, this affordability doesn’t come at the expense of the boat’s durability. The Lowe V1260 is crafted using marine-grade aluminum, which is as tough as they come. It also features mounts for oars in case you’re in a situation where paddling is necessary.
So if you’re in search of a boat for you and a couple of your friends to go on a relaxing fishing trip, this three-seater is the way to go.
Pros
- Extremely attractive price tag.
- Compact size gives it great maneuverability.
- Marine-grade aluminum makes it built to last.
Cons
- The minimalistic design doesn’t offer a lot in terms of comfort.
3. Legend 20 XTR Troller – Best Premium Choice
If you’re looking to add plenty of luxury to your ventures into the water, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more durable boat that offers a more premium experience than the Legend XTR.
This boat is absolutely packed with features. Ones that you’ll be making the hard decision to get up and use, or to stay in your super comfy ergonomic reclining captain’s chair.
If you decide to stay in the chair, you can enjoy some music using the featured dual speaker wireless stereo (with an MP3 port).
If you do decide to venture out of the chair, you’ll find a swim platform equipped with a fold-down step, as well as two premium rod holders.
Perhaps the highlight of all of this boat’s features is its Hummingbird/Helix GPS depth/fishfinder. This machine will make locating fish a breeze, it’s also perfect for gauging the depth of the water at any given spot.
To cap all of this off, the Legend XTR also features a full-length all-weather top.
Pros
- Packed with plenty of features and capabilities, including a reclining ergonomic captain’s chair and a GPS depth/fishfinder.
- Highly durable.
- Can be used for lots of different situations.
Cons
- The engine’s noise can make quite a racket at high speeds.
4. Lowe 22 Bay – Best Choice for Saltwater Fishing
With a length of 22 ft, the Lowe 22 Bay is the ultimate choice for those wanting to go on fishing trips in large groups. This boat’s size and the way it’s built give it the capacity to hold 8 people, making it an ideal option for family excursions.
This boat also offers an excellent combination of aesthetic and performance with its sleek design and 200 HP engine.
However, what sets the Lowe 22 Bay apart is its corrosion resistance. This gives it the ability to venture out into saltwater, which is something that most aluminum boats simply can’t do without being severely damaged.
In addition to this, it’s also equipped with plenty of features. These features include an extremely comfortable captain’s chair which is centrally located to offer 20/20 vision of the surroundings. The boat also features a fish locator, a 16-gallon baitwell, and a jack plate for power poles.
Pros
- High corrosion resistance
- Features plenty of accessories.
- Its large deck gives you plenty of space.
Cons
- Other than corrosion resistance, this boat doesn’t feature much else in terms of protection against the weather.
5. G3 Sportsman 2400 – Best Choice For Sport Fishing
For some people, fishing isn’t just a pass-time, it’s a full-fledged sport. For such individuals, the G3 Sportsman is just what the doctor ordered.
This boat was made for pro and semi-pro fishermen, and it shows in the way it’s constructed (and its price). This beast is crafted from heavy-gauge aluminum and features a dedicated command center with Lowrance electronics and high-end gauges.
It’s also equipped with a walk-through windshield, lockable rod storage, and 4 fishing chairs.
Pros
- Equipped with a plethora of accessories and features for fishing, including a walk-through windshield and a fully-fledged command center.
- Ergonomic chairs.
- Made for sport fishing.
Cons
- Lacks aesthetic appeal.
Things to Consider When Buying an Aluminum Bay Boat
There’s a myriad of options out there right now when it comes to aluminum bay boats. Therefore, the choice of which one to buy can be a hard one, particularly if this is your first go-round.
Here are some factors you should consider when making your decision.
Fishing Location
The first question to ask yourself is what kind of fishing am I going to do? Also, where am I going to do it?. Based on the answer, you’ll want to get a boat with either a deep-V hull or a mod-V hull.
Deep-V Hulls
If you’re planning on navigating turbulent waters, you should go for a Deep-V hull. They offer a significantly smoother commute to and from your fishing spots.
This type of boat is usually best when fishing for salmon, catfish, trout, and bass. It’s also more suitable if you tend to go fishing in large groups.
Mod-V hulls
This type of boat is made for shallow, calm waters. It has better maneuverability relative to deep-V hull boats and typically can hold a maximum of 3 people.
Interior Features
Fishing is an activity that takes time, and in turn, you’ll be spending long periods on your boat. Having a boat that’s comfortable and suits your needs keep this experience a positive one.
One example of interior features you should look out for is seating, keep in mind the size of your fishing party and choose a boat that can accommodate everyone.
Another example of an important feature is a walk-through windshield, which protects the boats’ inhabitants from unsavory weather.
Conclusion
Your choice of an aluminum bay boat should depend on the nature of your fishing expeditions, and the number of people you plan on taking with you.
If you’re just looking for an overall solid option, the Alumacraft Trophy 205 is your best bet.
If you’re a casual fisher looking for an affordable option for your fishing trips with friends, you should go for the Lowe V1260.