The best inflatable pontoon boats for fishing in 2024 are affordable, comfortable, and easy to maneuver in the water. These uber-popular pontoons are practical and very easy-to-store alternatives to larger pontoon and fishing boats. What’s most exciting about advancements in 2024 is that manufacturers of inflatable pontoon boats for fishing have added a lot of new features and great storage platforms that fishers love.
Among their best features, inflatable pontoon boats for fishing are lightweight and affordable. Sometimes called a water skeeter pontoon, they also ride high for increased visibility of the fish below. Compared to a full-sized boat, you won’t need a separate garage or storage facility to store it during the winter. Deflated, these pontoon boats don’t take up much space at all, and their included transport wheel allows you to move them freely on dry land like a wheelbarrow. Upon inflation of an inflatable pontoon boat, you can simply strap it on your car or place it in your truck bed to transport.
Keep in mind that inflatable pontoon boats for fishing are not high tech tools, and efficiently maneuvering one does require some practice. You’ll use two attached paddles to steer the vessel, similar to a kayak or a rowboat. Overall though, learning how to navigate one is not very difficult for most users.
Lastly, be sure to pick your fishing spots using an inflatable pontoon boat carefully. Ponds, rivers, and small lakes are traditionally great waters for this type of fishing vessel. Certain areas, however, on larger bodies of water can also be effectively and safely fished on one of these boats. Also, keep in mind that wind isn’t particularly a friend on one of these fishing vessels, but it can be used to your advantage.
Before choosing any inflatable pontoon boat model, one should thoroughly review important features like comfort, maneuverability, portability, and weight limit. We’ve taken all of these into consideration with our reviews.
Table: Best Inflatable Pontoon Boats for Fishing in 2024
| No. | Inflatable Pontoon Name | Rating |
| 1. | Classic Accessories Colorado XT | [5.0/5.0] |
| 2. | Classic Accessories Roanoke | [4.9/5.0] |
| 3. | Classic Accessories Colorado | [4.9/5.0] |
| 4. | Outcast Fish Cat 10-IR | [4.8/5.0] |
| 5. | Outcast Fish Cat Panther | [4.8/5.0] |
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Special Features of Inflatable Pontoons in 2024
There’s a lot to love about inflatable pontoon boats for fishing in 2024. This year provides the most bang for the buck ever for these vessels. Below are a few of the features and benefits of the newer models.
- Increased weight capacity, up to 400 lbs.
- Heavier duty construction, lighter weight designs
- Longer pontoon length for better stability
- High storage capacity with smart, practical fishing tools
- Better positioned, spring-loaded air valves that can accommodate most air pumps
- Cold and heat resistant bladders increase pontoon lifespan
- Spacious battery platforms for add-on trolling motor (up to 30 lbs of thrust)
- Convenient stripping baskets with a fish ruler that can new be detached
- Fold-down seats for more accessible storage
- More adjustable seats and non-slip footrests
- Rod holders that can be mounted in many more positions
- Adjustable placement of oarlocks for more comfortable maneuvering
- Excellent warranties for most models
Our Top Fishing Pontoon Picks for 2024
Below are what we believe are the top five inflatable pontoon boats to consider for fishing in 2024. We believe each choice is relatively affordable and provide an easy way to maneuver in the water while focusing on your next catch. We think that you’ll appreciate all of the advancements that the manufacturers and provided in 2024. We’ve found that Classic Accessories and Outcast Boats make the best inflatable pontoon boats for most fishermen.
Following our list, we’ll share some great alternatives to inflatable pontoon boats and additional lake activities for the family.
1. Outcast Fish Cat 9-IR Inflatable Pontoon
What do we like about the Outcast Fish Cat?
- It’s a very well built Outcast inflatable pontoon boat.
- Includes a durable steel frame for your gear.
- Includes a durable plastic chair that’s easy to keep dry.
- Good value with oars and decent storage capacity.
- Includes a 5-Year Warranty
What are the Outcast Fish Cat pontoon boat specifications?
| Length | 9′ |
|---|---|
| Width | 54″ |
| Weight | 63 lbs. |
| Tube Diameter | 16″ |
| Valve Type | Summit II |
| Base Fabric Denier | 1000 pvc |
| Material Weight, Oz. per Sq. Yard | 23 oz. |
| AIREcell Material | Vinyl |
| Number of Chambers | 2 |
| Load Capacity | 375 lbs. |
| Warranty | OSG 5 Year Limited Warranty |
| Color | Blue |
What are people saying about the Outcast Fish Cat:
This is an excellent float tube and has everything you need for a great day on the lake. Good construction, yet a bit pricey.
-Outcast Fish Cat Fisher
- Steel Frame: This frame doesn't mess around! It's ready to carry anything you want to put on it
- Built-In Motor Mount: Not stoked about rowing? No worries, outfit the Fish Cat 9-IR with a trolling motor and you're ready to...
- Continuous Curve Design: The Fish Cat 9-IR's pontoons have a seamless underbelly, which helps them slide through the water...
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2. Classic Accessories Roanoke Inflatable Pontoon Boat
What do we like about the Roanoke Inflatable Pontoon Boat by Classic Accessories?
Lightweight and easy to maneuver, this 8-foot pontoon boat features heavy-duty pontoons, aluminum oars, oar locks, temperature resistant bladders, and a powder-coated steel tube frame.
Special features include an under-seat stripping apron, zippered armrest pockets, a rear storage platform, molded plastic fold-down seat, and adjustable footrests. The Roanoke is designed to hold up to 350 lbs of weight and has a class-1 river rating that is backed by a one-year limited warranty.
- This 8′ pontoon boat is lightweight, easy to maneuver, and rides high for improved visibility.
- Great value as it includes mesh under the seat apron, zippered armrest pockets, a rear storage platform, and (2) 6′ 2-piece aluminum oars.
- The footrests adjust for taller fishermen.
- Includes a very durable molded plastic fold-down seat that’s easy to wipe down when wet.
- The armrest storage includes two large zippered pockets and small mesh pockets.
What are the Roanoke pontoon boat specifications?
- 8’L x 55″W x 29″H
- Weight: 55 lbs
- Load Capacity: 350 lbs
- Air Chambers: 2
- Material: Vinyl Fabric
- Denier Material Weight: 1000
- PVC Seam Construction
- Welded Valve
What are people saying about the Roanoke pontoon boat?
The Roanoke is my first pontoon boat, and like previous reviews, I really enjoy it. It is effortless to put together and to transport. The issue with the oarlock is pretty easy to fix, just wrap with electrical tape on either side of the lock and walla no oar movement. I like it, and it has helped me catch a lot of fish.
-Roanoke Pontoon Boater
- 8' Lightweight, Easy to Maneuver Pontoon Boat that Rides High for Improved Visibility.
- Mesh Under Seat Apron, Zippered Armrest Pockets, a Rear Storage Platform, and 2 6' 2-piece aluminum oars
- Footrests Adjust to a Wide Range of Leg Lengths
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3. Outcast Sporting Gear Fish Cat Panther Inflatable Pontoon Boat
What do we like about the Outcast Sporting Gear Fish Cat Panther?
This is Outcast Boating’s biggest capacity Fish Cat pontoon boat. You can load the Panther for a day on the river or cruising a lake. It’s welded seams offer extra durability and the 6-piece aluminum frame provides strength without added bulk. The Panther features convenient, maneuverable, low-profile 9′ quad pontoons.
What are the Outcast Fish Cat Panther pontoon boat specifications?
| Length | 9′ |
|---|---|
| Width | 60″ |
| Weight | 63 lbs. |
| Tube Diameter | 10″ |
| Valve Type | Summit II |
| Base Fabric Denier | 1000 pvc |
| Material Weight, Oz. per Sq. Yard | 23 oz. |
| AIREcell Material | Vinyl |
| Number of Chambers | 4 |
| Load Capacity | 400 lbs. |
| Warranty | OSG 5 Year Limited Warranty |
| Color | Dark Green |
What are people saying about the Outcast Fish Cat Panther?
The Panther is a stable pontoon boat to navigate rivers and very good on still waters. Maneuvers well with the included oars. Being a big guy at 6’4” and 250 lbs, I feel comfortable and confident while in the seat. I have several Outcast sporting gear watercraft, including a PAC 1000, discovery 9IR, and two super fat cat float tubes. I will always use Outcast sporting gear and highly recommend their products for the serious water adventurist.
-Outcast Panther Adventurist
- Big and stable, but still nimble for its size
- AIREcell System two-layer construction with airtight internal bladders and a tough outer shell
- Fold-down seat and adjustable footrests provide a solid casting & rowing platform
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4. Classic Accessories Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat With Transport Wheel & Motor Mount
What do we like about the Classic Accessories Colorado XT?
The Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat by Classic Accessories is a 9-foot, high-capacity pontoon boat with transport wheel, removable stripping basket, and massive storage capacity, including removable gear bags, 20 pockets, and 2 insulated drink holders.
- Includes a two-year limited warranty
- Heavy-duty pontoon boat with abrasion-resistant PVC bottom, sturdy nylon top, powder-coated steel tube frame, bronze oarlocks, cold and heat-resistant bladders, and rugged 7-foot two-piece aluminum oars
- Removable side pockets can combine to create a portable gear bag while providing customizable storage, including 20 pockets and two insulated drink holders
- Transport wheel allows easy access to your favorite fishing spot and stows up out of the way when fishing
- Anchor system with a fillable mesh bag; cleat and pulley controls can fit on either right or left side of the boat
- Removable stripping basket for side or over-the-lap mounting, two detachable foam fly patches, front boat retention cord and sturdy two-position motor mount for trolling
- Rod holder can be installed in three different positions on each oar stand, seat mount and footrests adjust to a wide range of leg lengths
- Wire rear storage and battery platform, padded fold-down plastic seat, quick inflation/deflation valves
- Safety features include labeling as per ABYC standards; pontoon boat rides high for improved visibility, tow rings, and non-slip footrests
What are the Colorado XT pontoon specifications?
- 108″L x 56″W x 28″H
- Weight: 77 lbs
- Load Capacity: 350 lbs
- Air Chambers: 2
- Material: Vinyl Fabric
- Denier Material Weight: 1000
- PVC Seam Construction
- Welded Valve
What are people saying about the Classic Series Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat:
Love the new options for 2020, and I cannot be more happy!
-Colorado XT Fisherman
Purchased a Colorado model and added a trolling motor for use in an electric motor only lake. We had an excellent three-day fishing trip with my daughter in her kayak. The boat exceeded my expectations and performed without any issues. Pontoons will swell if you leave it in the sun, so have to be diligent, releasing pressure from the pontoon valves. Easy as pie to do! Great trip and great boat. Now my daughter wants one (I may just get another).
-Colorado XT Outdoor Enthusiast
- Colorado XT assembled size 108"L x 56"W x 28"H (to top of seat), weight, 77 lbs.
- Heavy-duty pontoon boat with abrasion-resistant PVC bottom, tough nylon top, powder-coated steel tube frame, bronze oar...
- Removable side pockets can combine to create a portable gear bag; customizable storage includes 20 pockets and two insulated...
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5. Classic Accessories Colorado Inflatable Fishing Pontoon Boat With Motor Mount
What do we like about the Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon?
The Colorado Inflatable Pontoon Boat by Classic Accessories is a 9-foot, high-capacity pontoon boat with a padded seat and huge storage capacity; including over 20 pockets and 2 insulated drink holders.
- Colorado assembled size 108″L x 56″W x 26″H (to top of seat), Weight: 71.5lbs.
- Two-year limited warranty
- Heavy-duty pontoon boat with abrasion-resistant PVC bottom, sturdy nylon top, powder-coated steel tube frame, bronze oarlocks, cold and heat-resistant bladders, and rugged 7-foot two-piece aluminum oars
- High storage capacity; includes ten mesh pockets, 12 zippered pockets, and two insulated drink holders
- Anchor system with a fillable mesh bag; cleat and pulley controls can fit on the right or left side of the boat
- Rod holder can be mounted in three different positions on each oar stand, seat mount and footrests adjust to a wide range of leg lengths
- Detachable foam fly patch and sturdy two-position motor mount for trolling
- Wire rear storage and battery platform, padded fold-down plastic seat, quick inflation/deflation valves
- Safety features include labeling as per ABYC standards; pontoon boat rides high for improved visibility, tow rings, non-slip footrests and unique dual-side stripping apron with fish ruler allows entry and exit without unclipping.
What are the Colorado pontoon specifications?
- 108″L x 56″W x 26″H
- Weight: 71.5 lbs
- Load Capacity: 350 lbs
- Air Chambers: 2
- Material: Vinyl Fabric
- Denier Material Weight: 1000
- PVC Seam Construction
- Welded Valve
What are people saying about the Colorado pontoon?
I ordered the boat through Walmart, and when I received it, one of the pontoons would not hold air, I contacted CA through an online form and followed up with a call a couple of days later. They corrected an error I had made on my online form and said they would get me a replacement bladder out. Received quickly and included in the pack were two bladders with the valves, so now I have spares. The boat is as good as the company I’m using with paddles only until I’m good with that, then I’ll add my trolling motor need exercise anyway. Great Job, CA, you will be my go-to for all your other products I need.
-Happy Colorado Pontoon Boat Enthusiast
I am so happy with this inflatable pontoon boat. I did a fair amount of research before purchasing; I thought I might need the wheel provided in the XT model, but so far, I’ve not wished that I had it. I outfitted mine with the Minn Kota Endura 40x thrust electric motor, and even with the extra weight of the battery/motor, I still sit high on the water and can fly fish without issue. I feel very safe when I’m on the water and can sail pretty quickly in high gear. And the anchor system works great. I love this thing.
-Colorado Pontoon Reviewer
- Assembled size 108"L x 56"W x 26"H (to top of seat), weight, 71.5lbs. 400 lbs. Max Weight Capacity
- Heavy-duty pontoon boat with abrasion-resistant PVC bottom, tough nylon top, powder-coated steel tube frame, bronze oar...
- High storage capacity includes 10 mesh pockets, 12 zippered pockets, and 2 insulated drink holders
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Important Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Inflatable Pontoon Boat for Your Needs
Portability:
The portability of your inflatable pontoon boat is an important factor, and how it’s designed determines it. That said, consider how you will be transporting the boat and make your decision from there. if you have a large SUV or truck, you’re all set. if you have a small car, make sure to consider if you have the appropriate space for the boat when it’s deflated.
Stability:
The stability of your new boat is going to determine the type of activities you can do on it. In most cases, you’ll have plenty of stability with an 8′ plus-sized boat. We found that the longer the pontoons and the higher you sit, the better.
Capacity:
We believe it is super important to purchase an inflatable pontoon boat with a capacity that exceeds your weight.
Storage:
Make sure to consider the storage available on your vessel of choice. In most cases, the more storage the better.
What Are the Differences Between an Inflatable Pontoon Boat for Fishing, a Float Tube, and a Kayak?
If you love to fish, inflatable pontoon boats are an awesome way to enjoy the sport. You’ll find that there are many benefits to these vessels over the best fishing float tubes and kayaks.
For example, compared to a fishing float tube, such as the Bighorn, they’re less stressful to maneuver because you use the attached oars and not your feet. You’re also entirely out of the water in an inflatable pontoon boat so you can stay dry and warm in colder climates.
Compared to an inflatable kayak, you enjoy a much more stable boat with the ability to add a trolling motor. You’ll also find that there is a lot more space to strip your fish and more practical storage space.
The disadvantages to inflatable pontoons are that they don’t break down as small for storage between use. While the pontoons do deflate, you’ll still have to store the metal framing and seat.
Comparison Chart: Inflatable Pontoon Boat, Fishing Float Tube, and Inflatable Kayak
| Inflatable Kayak | Float Tube | Inflatable Pontoon Boat | |
 |  |  | |
| Stability | Very Good | Very Good | Excellent |
| Seating | Out of Water | In Water | Out of Water |
| Steering | Dual Blade Oar | Feet | Oars |
| Storage | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Rod Holders | Can Be Added | Can Be Added | Yes |
| Portability | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good |
| Weight Capacity | 250 lbs + | 275 lbs + | 350 lbs + |
| Can Add Trolling Motor? | No | Depends on Model | Yes |
| Best in Class | Intex Excursion Pro Kayak | Outcast Super Fat Cat LCS Float Tube | Classic Accessories Colorado XTS Pontoon Boat |
| Best Value | Challenger K1 Kayak | Classic Accessories Bighorn Float Tube | Classic Accessories Roanoke Pontoon Boat |
Learn More and Explore Additional Inflatable Fishing Boats & Accessories
Whether you are a pro or a novice fisherman, these inflatable fishing pontoon boats have something for everyone. These uber-popular pontoons are practical and very easy-to-store alternatives to larger pontoon and fishing boats. We think you’ll love the advancements in 2024.
Below, we share potential accessories for your inflatable pontoon and some other boating options.
If you are looking for more activities for your next lake trip, check out our posts about the best inflatable paddle boards, the best floating lily pads and water mats, and the best towable tubes.
Popular Inflatable Pontoon Accessories
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Excellent Electric Air Pumps for Precise Readings
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High Rated Fishing Float Tubes
Are inflatable pontoon boats too cumbersome for you and your family? Float tubes are also great options. Check out a few great options below.
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Best Handheld Fish Finders
Handheld fish finders are gaining popularity for shore, float tube, and inflatable pontoon fishing. They’ll detect and display water depth, approximate fish location, short & tall weeds, and sand & rocks on the bottom. In many cases, their portable design gives you another option to hang it around your neck.
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Feature Rich & Budget Friendly Float Tubes
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Top Dinghy Options for Rougher Waters
If you’ll be in rough waters, dinghies might be a better option. Here are a few to consider below.
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Inflatable Pontoon Boat FAQs
What is an inflatable pontoon boat?
An inflatable pontoon boat is a small, lightweight inflatable fishing craft that anglers use to fish from. They have pontoons on either side and a seat raised above the water allowing the legs of the angler to rest upon metal framing holding the boat together.
Inflatable pontoon boats are used for many aspects of fishing, such as flyfishing for trout or lure fishing for largemouth bass, and enable the angler to fish areas otherwise not fishable from the bank.
A standard inflatable pontoon consists of two inflated bladders held together by metal framing (usually), a plastic fold-down chair, oars, reserve air compartments, and tackle storage pockets. Many many anglers customize their crafts with additional rod holders, lights, and electronic fish finders.
Where can you purchase inflatable pontoon boats?
Inflatable pontoons are available at many popular retailers including Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Cabellas, and Bass Pro Shops.
How do you maneuver an inflatable pontoon?
You utilized attached oars to maneuver your inflatable pontoon boat for fishing. The oars make it possible to move quietly through the water.
Remember to stay reasonably close to shore. While inflatable pontoons are puncture-resistant, accidents can happen. Being out in the middle of the lake with a deflating pontoon can spell disaster for your gear and makes getting your catch to shore that much more difficult.
What are some inflatable pontoon boat fishing tips?
- Take the right tackle and rod.
- Plan your fishing spot because you’ll need to stay close to shore.
- Then don’t go far in the event you get a puncture.
- Take advantage of the wind on your return when energy levels are not as high.
- Don’t just cast, troll too.
- Bring a change of clothes for when you are done fishing.
- Protect your valuables in waterproof cases and make sure they are tied up.
- Make sure you are seen by wearing bright colors.
- Watch the time to make as it sometimes takes longer to get back to shore.
- Remember sunscreen.
- Bring plenty of water and snack foods.
Looking for more tips? Check out this book with more great float tube tips.
What should you bring on an inflatable pontoon outing?
- Tackle
- Fishing rods
- Another set of clothes
- Sunscreen
- Snacks
- Water
- Identification
- Phone
- Waterproof carrier/bag
- Watch
- Map
- Life jacket
Do you wear waders in an inflatable pontoon?
Waders are not necessary when inflatable pontoon fishing as your body is completely out of the water.
If you are going to wade in the water, then yes, bring waders as they do a great job of protecting you from hypothermia and will keep underwater bugs like leeches from bothering you. They’ll also help you avoid abrasions. You can find a good selection of waders here.