There are a lot of features that make up a good Pontoon/Kick Boat.
Some that come to mind are...
Aluminum Frame - Steel frames are not only very heavy, they also rust.
Pontoon Length - I'd look for something in the 9 ft & over range.
Pontoon Design - You want a pontoon that make a smoothe transition as it curves toward the ends of the pontoon. There are some on the market that form an angle at the front and back making it more difficult to manuever.
Motor Mount - Not necessary. You will probably never up a motor on one. My experience is that a motor is much too difficult to operate because it is behind your seat and it is very difficult to turn and operate. I have heard of people who rigged up some sort of extension on their trolling motors, but it is just not worth the hassle in my opinion. Besides, on moving water, you would probably only be asking for trouble or a broken shaft. Some models have a motor mount on them that incorporates an anchor system. A light anchor is handy in wind on stillwater.
As far at brands, you can spend pretty much what you want on a Pontoon Boat. Mine came from Bass Pro Shops and is a Blue Heron 9. It is made by Outcast and is actually their Fishcat 9 Lite model that is branded for BPS. The price difference between the BPS model and the Outcast model was a couple of hundred bucks last time I checked. Quite a tidy sum for a screen printed decal.
I really enjoy mine. So much better than my float tube.
Hope this helps.
- Gary
At 01:57 PM 01/29/2004, you wrote:
What should I look for in a pontoon for that will be used mostly for river fishing? You know length, do I need a motor mount or anchor etc. Now I may put in on still water once in a while but I will never put into swift water. I want to use it to fish not as a thrill ride or death wish.
