The Ultimate Guide to Fishing Tritoon Boats: Finding the Perfect Model
Tritoon boats have become increasingly popular as multi-purpose vessels, and for good reason. Their roominess and stability make them excellent platforms for fishing. Several manufacturers now offer fishing-specific tritoon models designed with anglers in mind. This guide explores some of the best fishing tritoon boats and the features that set them apart.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- How tritoon boat layout affects fishability
- Key features to look for in a fishing tritoon
- Recommended tritoon boats for fishing
5 Recommended Tritoon Boats for Fishing
The following tritoon boats exemplify the best features for fishing, straight from the factory:
Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL Select
Best For: Anglers fishing smaller waters and/or on a budget.
The Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL Select is designed for a pair of anglers targeting bass or a larger group fishing for crappie. At 18’5” long (with a 16-foot deck), it accommodates up to eight people. Powered by a 20-hp Mercury outboard (optional 50-hp), it offers good speed. Standard features include swiveling bow fishing chairs, a stereo, and a Bimini top. The console houses a livewell and rod storage. The optional fish package includes a fishfinder and trolling motor. Available for around $17,000.
Pricing and Specs
| Starting MSRP: | $16,995 |
|---|---|
| LOA: | 18’5″ |
| Beam: | 8’ |
| Max. Recommended HP: | 50 HP |
| Average Dry Weight: | 1,310 lbs. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 7/1,090 lbs. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 6 gal. |
What we like:
- Great value for the money
- Easily trailerable
- Fore and aft boarding platforms for easy fish landing
What could be better:
- Small size may feel rough in windy conditions or on large bodies of water
- Lacks an aft fishing seat option
Bennington 20 SF SPS
Best For: Full-featured fishing tritoon boat for anglers.
The Bennington 20 SF SPS features two swiveling bass seats forward and a centerline fishing station in the stern. Multiple livewells, rod racks, and locking rod storage make it ideal for anglers. The SPS performance package enhances handling. Optional Garmin fishfinders help locate prime fishing spots. Priced at $41,269 with a 25-hp Yamaha outboard (rated for 115-hp). Mercury and Torqeedo outboards are also available.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $53,839 (with Yamaha 115) |
|---|---|
| LOA: | 22’4″ |
| Beam: | 8’6″ |
| Dry Weight: | 1,819 lbs. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 10/1,593 lbs. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 22.4 gal. |
What we like:
- Lockable rod storage
- Large livewells at both ends
- Factory dual-battery option for trolling motors and graphs
What could be better:
- Lacks fore and aft boarding decks
Princecraft Sportfisher 21-2RS
Best For: Anglers who prefer a family-friendly boat.
The Princecraft Sportfisher 21-2RS offers durability and versatility, perfect for sharing outdoor experiences with family and friends. Constructed with H36 aluminum, it's rated for 10 people and up to 115 horsepower. Features include two rear swivel fishing seats, a fishing station, and a large livewell. An optional bow table is great for meals and entertaining, and a telescopic ladder provides water access. Standard features include a Bimini top and transducer brackets. Available for $30,361 with a 40-hp Mercury outboard.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $30,361 |
|---|---|
| LOA: | 21’6” |
| Beam: | 8’5” |
| Max. HP Capacity: | 115 HP |
| Approximate Weight: | 1,810 lbs. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 10/1,346 lbs. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 29 gal. |
What we like:
- Sturdy construction with top materials
- Excellent mix of fishing and family features
- Choice of Mercury outboard power and hull configurations
What could be better:
- Limited to one brand of outboard
Starcraft CX Fish
Best For: Anglers seeking to combine fishing and luxury.
The Starcraft CX Fish, available in 21 FD and 23 FD models (reviewed here is the 23 FD), features plush swiveling chairs and wide-open fishing space in the stern. It includes a fishing center with a livewell, rod holders, and tool holders. Vinyl flooring is recommended for easy cleaning. Optional fishing electronics include depth finders/graphs by Hummingbird and Simrad. Trolling motors are also available. Measuring 24 feet 8 inches long by 8 feet 6 inches wide, it's listed at $68,642 with a 115 hp Suzuki outboard (up to 300 hp possible).
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $45,518 |
|---|---|
| LOA: | 24’8” |
| Beam: | 102” |
| Max. HP Capacity: | 300 HP |
| Approximate Weight: | 2,750 lbs. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 12/1,695 lbs. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 60 gal. |
What we like:
- Stern and bow decks for easy fish landing
- Vinyl flooring option for easy cleaning
- Well-designed aft fishing center
What could be better:
- Could use more rod storage
Lowe SF 234
Best For: A great mix of fishing and pontooning.
Lowe’s SF 234 balances fishing features with pontoon luxuries. The bow and stern feature swiveling seats, and the bow boarding gate is undercut for trolling motor use. A wide platform at the stern facilitates fish landing. A large rod locker with drink holders and a work surface graces the stern area, and a livewell is forward of the helm console. Available with up to a 250-hp outboard, it's listed at $42,952 with a 115-hp Mercury.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $42,952 |
|---|---|
| LOA: | 24’3” |
| Beam: | 8’6” |
| Max. HP Capacity: | 150 HP/200 HP with TL |
| Approximate Weight: | 1,865 lbs./2,125 lbs. with TL |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 2,388 lbs./ 2,746 lbs. with TL |
| Fuel Capacity: | 24 gal. / 30 gal. TL |
What we like:
- Four-position fishing layout
- Many standard fishing accessories
- Aft swim platform for easy fish handling
What could be better:
- Limited engine brand choice
What to Look For in a Fishing Tritoon Boat
Fishing demands specific boat features. Consider the following when shopping for a fishing tritoon boat:
- Bow and/or Stern Decks: Easier fish landing and release.
- Easy-Clean Floor Covering: Vinyl, EVA foam, or carpet.
- Livewell: Essential for keeping fish and bait alive.
- Rod Storage: Holders for fishing and racks for secure storage.
- Electronics: A good fishfinder is crucial.
- Trolling Motor: For quiet maneuvering and holding position.
Closing Remarks & FAQs
Tritoon boats may not be tournament angling boats, but they make excellent fishing platforms, especially for family fishing. Here are some frequently asked questions:
Do tritoon boats make good fishing boats?
Yes, when equipped with features like a livewell, rod holders, and swiveling seats.
How much do fishing tritoon boats normally cost?
Generally less than luxury models, starting under $20,000 and ranging up to $50,000+.
Is it hard to fish from a tritoon boat?
The high fencing can be a challenge, but fore and aft decks can help.
Are tritoon boats good for saltwater fishing?
Yes, but rinse thoroughly after each use.
What fishing features can you add to a tritoon boat?
Livewells, rod racks, fishfinders, and trolling motors are all great additions.