Any fisherman would not refuse a boat. Moreover, the motor one. Indeed, in this case, fishing becomes more comfortable, productive and interesting.
Many owners install a motor on their plastic watercraft. They have the opportunity to cross a body of water without any problems and get to the most inaccessible places.
Plastic motor boats for fishing: characteristics
It’s easier to characterize a watercraft if you immediately highlight its pros and cons. Or, for example, compare with the best or worst analogue.
Advantages and disadvantages of boats
Plastic water transport has many advantages.
But the main ones are:
- Unsinkable. If it capsizes, the boat will remain on the surface. This fact is important when taking into account safety for the owner.
- Small draft size. It makes it possible to fish in low water.
- Light in weight. This advantage allows the boat to be transported, as well as moved to another more suitable place without any special loads.
- The presence of two layers.
- High-quality sealing of compartments.
- Possibility to install a motor and attach a rod holder to the hull of the vessel.
- The bottom was treated with an anti-corrosion agent. Thanks to this, the surface will not become overgrown with shells.
- The reliability and strength of plastic as the main material guarantees long-term service.
- The presence of elasticity, which makes the boat more resistant to expected loads.
- Affordable price when compared to the cost of aluminum watercraft.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages:
- At low temperatures, plastic becomes brittle. This fact should be taken into account during use and storage.
- Over the years of use, so-called “bald patches” may appear. Such formations will create problems when using the craft.
- Self-repair is difficult.
Let's celebrate! In any case, there are incomparably more advantages, which forces fishermen to still purchase plastic motor boats.
Advantages and disadvantages of plastic boats relative to inflatable ones
Advantages of plastic models
Such designs have a number of advantages that make sense to talk about. For example:
- Price. Affordable price, which is slightly lower, for example, than aluminum models.
- Light weight. This allows the boat to be transported and launched without problems.
- The structure is resistant to various loads due to its elasticity.
- The strength of a plastic boat.
- They are resistant to external natural influences.
- Long service life: they retain their presentation for a long time.
- Reliability of a plastic boat.
Disadvantages of plastic boats
- Plastic is afraid of low temperatures and becomes fragile, which must be taken into account during operation and storage.
- Over time, “bald patches” appear on the hull, which interfere with the operation of the boat.
- It is difficult to carry out repairs yourself.
Which is better - a plastic boat or a rubber one?
When comparing two types of vehicles, price, durability, technical characteristics, and functionality are usually taken into account.
Advantages of a plastic boat:
- Possibility of installing a motor with more power.
- Increased stability.
- Use on reservoirs of various sizes: from small to large.
- Best speed thanks to powerful motor.
- The strength of the material exceeds the strength of rubber.
Advantages of a rubber boat:
- Price. The cost of a rubber watercraft is lower than a plastic one.
- Easier to transport and move due to lower weight.
As can be seen from the above comparisons, water transport made of plastic still has more advantages. And more important than price. The rubber boat is suitable for unpretentious fishermen who love small bodies of water.
Content:
- 1 Advantages and disadvantages of plastic boats relative to inflatable ones 1.1 Advantages of plastic models
- 1.2 Disadvantages of plastic boats
- 4.1 Budget 4.1.1 “SAVA 270”
- 4.2.1 "Estuary"
If a plastic boat is also equipped with a motor, then you can move across the water surface to any distance without any problems. As a rule, fishermen on a plastic boat with a motor are always left with their catch.
Nowadays, 80% of models made of plastic are represented on the market for such products. Recently, they have practically replaced rubber products.
This article aims to tell you about the best manufacturing companies, as well as what you should pay attention to when choosing a plastic boat.
Tips for choosing a plastic motor boat
Before making the right choice, you need to carefully study the advice of professionals. After all, the outcome of fishing and the safety of the owner depend on the right choice.
There are several main tips:
- The cross-country ability of a vehicle depends on its size. If the owner wants better cross-country ability, the dimensions should be smaller.
- It is better to immediately spend money on an expensive boat. A budget option can turn the owner’s life into a series of renovations.
- First you need to find out for what purpose and what kind of boat is required. For example, for single fishing you will need a small-sized product, and for group fishing you will need a larger one.
- It would be useful to check the strength of the vessel. The most durable ones are made by hand molding.
- The reliability of the boat is ensured by the reinforcing fiberglass included in the boat. It makes the product better quality and more durable.
- When choosing a vessel, you need to think about the operating conditions, transportation and storage.
Rating of plastic boats for motors, their prices
On the modern sales market you can find a wide range of plastic vessels made in Russia, as well as manufacturers from other countries.
Products of the following domestic brands are in demand: “Sparta”, “SAVA”, “Afalina”, “Tortilla”, etc. The products have differences and differ in cost and technical characteristics. Popular foreign brands, “HUSKY”.
Budget options
Not too expensive samples.
The top three ratings include the following models:
- "SAVA 270". Dimensions 2.7 by 1.25 m. Weighs about 40 kg. The main component is plastic. Additives are polyester resins and fiberglass, which makes the material stronger. The seats are made of plywood, which is resistant to moisture. A gasket is installed at the motor mounting point to reduce wear. The carrying capacity of this craft is rated at 250 kg. Number of passengers – 2. Engine 3 liters. With. There is a frame specially made for anchoring and towing. Swimming blocks are located under the benches. provides a 2 year warranty. Cost – 30 thousand rubles.
- "Afalina 255". Dimensions – 2.55 by 1.38 m. The vessel weighs about 40 kg, its capacity is 3 passengers. The body is painted. Additional buoyancy blocks are located at the front of the boat. Transport has no seams. Thanks to this, its strength is high. "Afalina 255" can handle a 3 hp engine. With. The craft is also suitable as a sailboat. Its price is 25.9 thousand rubles.
- "Tortilla - 2". The dimensions of this model are 2.67 by 1.15 m. Its not too wide width allows it to be transported on top of a car. The Tortilla can be equipped with a 2.5 liter engine. With. The ship is quite stable. There is no danger of rocking on the pond. Accommodates two passengers. The transport was tested and received the GOST mark. The use of this plastic boat is guaranteed. If she gets a hole, the blocks will keep her afloat. Small size makes it easy to store. Cost – 32.9 thousand rubles.
Elite boats
Premium class vessels are more expensive, but more spacious and fast.
The rating included three samples:
- "Estuary". The length of this product is 3.5 m. The width is 1.4 m. These dimensions allow you to accommodate 4 passengers. Weight – 65 kg. The vessel's carrying capacity is impressive - up to 300 kg. This plastic boat has increased stability. You can install a 3 hp engine on it. With. (maximum – 10 hp). Allows you to fish in any place in the reservoir, including shallow water and places overgrown with reeds. Warranty - one year. Its price is 60 thousand rubles.
- HUSKY The vessel is made in retro style and has an attractive and bright appearance. Accommodates up to 4 passengers. Lightweight and quite maneuverable boat. The optimal size deck is available. Length – 4 meters. The volume of additional blocks is at least 300 liters. It is possible to change the position of the steering console - at the rear or in the middle. The power range of a suitable engine is 15 – 30 hp. With. The load capacity is excellent, 420 kg. The controls are simple, several speeds. Even with a meter wave, plastic transport remains stable. Maximum speed – 80 km/h. Cost – 100 thousand rubles.
- TERHI is a thermoplastic vessel. Country of origin: Finland. The company provides a 4-year warranty. Boats are made using unique technology. The composition of the watercraft includes thermoplastic. TERHI has increased stability. Several models are small in size and are not subject to registration with the State Inspectorate. The capacity of a foreign model will also please any fisherman. The price of the model is from 18 to 423 thousand rubles, depending on the type of sample.
Ten of the best plastic boats for fishing
Barracuda
It is characterized by minimal weight, compact overall dimensions, and a fairly powerful gasoline engine is supplied with this boat. With its help, it is possible to provide not only high speed of movement on the water surface, but also excellent maneuverability, as well as decent cross-country ability. In the basic version, the boat consists of a hull, which includes a deck and a bottom. Inside there are two benches, a platform for a container with fuel, a place for a battery, and a mount for installing a navigator or other devices.
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The products are made from special fiberglass. It does not require maintenance and is able to maintain its basic qualities in any operating conditions. The material is insensitive to ultraviolet rays, easily tolerates even significant temperature changes, and is resistant to physical stress, including shock. The boat has an increased deadrise, which ensures the smoothest possible passage through the waves. Even a fully loaded boat can reach glide almost instantly. The length is 4.6 m, the width can reach 1.7 m, it can accommodate up to five people, the maximum cargo weight is 500 kg.
Advantages:
- Made from very lightweight material that can withstand even the harshest operating conditions;
- Decent capacity;
- Can carry significant load;
- Motor included;
- Suitable for both fishing and regular walks.
Flaws:
- Quite a high price.
Plastic boat Barracuda
Swift
Inexpensive domestic products. It is characterized by versatility and multifunctionality, suitable for performing a wide variety of tasks. The design of the boat is such that it is practically incapable of capsizing, so it can be used even on mountain rivers or in sea water. It is envisaged that it will be used for fishing, hunting or just walking. The bottom system is unique - it includes four cylinders, thanks to which the boat can easily navigate even shallow water and uneven terrain.
If extreme conditions arise, for example, high waves or simply bad weather, then in this case there is a self-draining transom, which has a positive effect on safety - the deck will remain dry regardless of weather conditions. The maximum load capacity is 250 kg and the boat can accommodate three people. Its length is 2.77 m; if desired, the boat can be equipped with a motor, transport wheels on stands, and cleats for mooring at a pier or to other vessels.
Advantages:
- A unique design that makes the boat unsinkable;
- Compact overall dimensions;
- Good load capacity;
- Possibility of installing a motor and other additional elements.
Flaws:
- Not very often found on sale.
Plastic boat Swift
Sprint M
This model is designed for use in calm water - in reservoirs, lowland rivers, lakes, ponds. It is also suitable for coastal marine areas. The boat has a single monolithic hull; there are seats at the stern and in the bow. They contain buoyancy tanks that will prevent the boat from sinking if the structure is damaged. It is advisable to operate the unit together with oars, but a motor can also be installed. The boat is made of high-quality plastic that is resistant to damage. Its design is stable, all internal surfaces have a slight roughness, thanks to which the inside will not be slippery even if water gets in there.
The product has excellent maneuverability and low weight. The boat allows you to transport cargo up to 200 kg - it can accommodate two people. The weight of the entire structure is only 32 kg.
Advantages:
- Excellent maneuverability;
- Non-slip internal surfaces;
- Compact overall dimensions and low weight.
Flaws:
- It can only accommodate two people.
Plastic boat Sprint M
VISA-yacht Tortilla
A single-seat model that can be equipped with both oars and a motor. It has a significant carrying capacity, its length is 2.35 m. A tourist can comfortably sit in it, taking with him everything necessary for a multi-day trip. The case has a significant margin of strength and wear resistance. It is made from two-layer fiberglass, which can withstand significant loads, is not exposed to sunlight, and withstands temperature changes well.
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The outer side is perfectly smooth, allowing you to glide through the waves with ease. The transom part is reinforced, there are longitudinal shelves with sides. The one-piece design ensures the absolute unsinkability of the structure. On the waves, the boat behaves calmly and steadily, has excellent performance and small overall dimensions, and can be used even in fairly harsh conditions.
Advantages:
- The seamless design is reliably protected from leaks;
- Decent load capacity;
- Multifunctional model;
- Good running capabilities;
- You can walk either with oars or with a motor.
Flaws:
- After a couple of years, the paint begins to fade in the sun.
Plastic boat VISA-yacht Tortilla
Wyatboat Start
It is made from the original material - laminated polyester fiberglass, which is additionally coated on the outside with a special polymer material that increases wear resistance. This boat is well suited for sports competitions, boat trips, fishing in river and sea conditions. Plastic resists shock and vibration well, and practically does not age, thanks to which the boat can last at least 20 years, and the cost of the unit is quite reasonable.
The boat is 3.18 m long, 1.45 m wide, and weighs 55 kg including oars. It can comfortably accommodate two or three people. If you equip the product with an outboard motor, you must remember that its power must be at least 10 horsepower, otherwise the fuel consumption will be too high. The boat is suitable for use even in the most severe conditions. Plastic does not heat up in hot weather, retains heat in cold weather and withstands ultraviolet radiation well.
Advantages:
- Very roomy model with good load capacity;
- Long period of operation;
- Reasonable cost;
- The material is insensitive to loads and other influences.
Flaws:
- It is not very convenient to use a long fishing rod from the side of the boat.
Plastic boat Wyatboat Start
Neiva-4
It combines excellent driving performance and excellent stability on the surface of the reservoir. The sides of the boat are not too high, so it will be quite convenient to remove gear or nets - this design was designed specifically for fishing. The product is distinguished by high maneuverability and controllability, there is a mount for an outboard motor, but it is most convenient to walk without oars. The boat is completely safe. The bottom has a non-slip coating, the body has additional stiffening ribs, and is made of high-strength fiberglass.
The middle benches are equipped with lower holes where it is convenient to insert fishing rods. The body length is 4.1 m with a weight of 83 kg; you can take up to 400 kg of cargo with you. The boat comfortably accommodates 3-4 people with everything necessary for fishing. The power of the installed motor must be at least 10 horsepower.
Advantages:
- Excellent quality;
- Significant load capacity;
- Long service life;
- Roomy.
Flaws:
- It is unlikely that you will be able to handle this boat alone.
Plastic boat Neiva-4
LAKER T410
A very large model developed by Swedish engineers. The boat is over 4 meters long and approximately 1.5 meters wide. If necessary, it can be equipped with an outboard motor, the power of which must be at least 30 horsepower. The bow part is made in the shape of the letter V, thanks to this solution the boat is easy to control on the waves, and it behaves steadily when parked. The products are characterized by decent capacity and are suitable for a variety of purposes. In particular, it is designed for intensive use during long hikes.
Maneuverability is excellent - the boat reacts immediately when turning, even if it is on a wave. It can comfortably accommodate up to 4 people and another 150 kg of cargo - in total the product can withstand 320 kg. A stationary transom is installed here. Under the weight of the motor, the bow of the boat rises above the surface of the water; this fact gives the boat an additional advantage when overcoming the resistance of waves.
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Advantages:
- Very maneuverable boat;
- Suitable for intensive use;
- Withstands a decent amount of weight.
Flaws:
- Not suitable for sea water.
Plastic boat LAKER T410
Cayman 36S
Designed mainly for travel, but can also be used during fishing, hunting in rivers, lakes and other bodies of water with calm water. If desired, you can go out to sea on it, if the waves are not too high - no more than 70 cm. There is a mount for installing an outboard motor, and its maximum power should be 25 horsepower, and there are oarlocks for installing oars. The draft is small, so the boat moves well in shallow water, even if there is a lot of algae in it.
It looks quite stylish - the outer side is painted blue, so it is completely invisible from the water column, which is very important when fishing. The boat itself is quite compact; there are special compartments that will prevent it from sinking if the hull suddenly gets damaged.
Advantages:
- Compact – can be transported on the roof of a car;
- Works well in shallow water;
- Beautiful design;
- Long service life.
Flaws:
- High sides make it inconvenient to cast fishing rods.
Plastic boat Cayman 36S
Afalina-315
The key design difference between this model and all others presented in our rating of the best plastic boats is the highest possible impact resistance, durability, reliability and safety. It is more than 3 m long and about 1.4 m wide. This is a flat-bottomed version, which only increases the stability of the boat on the water surface. Its motion is smooth; if you equip the unit with a motor, it will get on the glider almost instantly. The hull is streamlined, the bow has a special shape, so steering such a boat is quite simple.
The product is designed for hunting, fishing or just relaxing. It is absolutely safe due to special buoyancy blocks - even if the boat suddenly fills with water, it will in any case remain on the surface of the reservoir. The design is very compact, so it can be transported on the roof of a car
Advantages:
- Small overall dimensions;
- Flat bottom increases stability;
- Good quality;
- Durability;
- Unsinkable.
Flaws:
- Not suitable for seas.
Plastic boat Afalina-315
Armada Volga
As a leader, we decided to identify a unique and fairly lightweight model, which is intended not only for fishing and hunting, but also for various rescue activities, sports competitions, and walks on the water. The length of the boat is 4.4 m, it is equipped with waterproof seats, the inside is quite spacious, so several people with things can comfortably fit there. The maximum load capacity is 400 kg.
You can install an outboard motor on the boat. The body is streamlined, resulting in minimal water resistance. The ride quality is excellent even in the rowing version. In the bow there is a bracket with which you can easily anchor, moor to a pier or another vessel.
Advantages:
- It's very spacious inside;
- Good load capacity;
- Multifunctionality;
- Minimum draft.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Plastic boat Armada Volga
Reviews from fishermen
Purchased Terhi Made entirely of plastic. Ideal for fishing. The sound insulation, unlike aluminum, is excellent; there is no background from the ship. The Terhi 400 has a special foam inside. The boat definitely cannot sink. The buoyancy reserve is huge. I've been using it for 4 years. No complaints. I recommend to all. Grade:
Gennady
We recommended “Tortilla 2”. Almost no wobble. Convenient to store, place long tackle on the bottom. The transom of the vehicle is reinforced. I transfer on the roof of the car. I've been using it for several years - I've never even touched it up. Comfortable, high-quality vessel for personal use. Grade:
Leonid
I use SAVA. Light plastic boat. Transporting by car is no problem. You can just go fishing together. Reliable model. The warranty is 2 years, which is important to me personally. The set includes 2 oars and a hard seat. Instructions included. Doesn't take up much space when stored. Excellent maneuverability. Grade:
Maksim
My “Liman” goes well both under oars and under the motor. Dimensions and weight make it possible to transport without a trailer. The maximum speed with one passenger is 44 km/h, with two passengers – 35 km/h. The body has no seams. The porous internal structure guarantees complete unsinkability. The case material has good resistance to impacts and scratches. Fishing with Liman is a lot of fun. Grade:
Kirill
Recommended HUSKY I really liked the vessel, very roomy. The manufacturer has created an excellent case. This plastic watercraft has a beautiful “look” – retro style. The high side goes well with the wide, rounded bow. Absolutely functional, reliable, safe model. Maneuverable means. The spacious bow locker is convenient for storing an anchor, ropes and safety vests. I didn't notice any shortcomings. Grade:
Mark
Plastic boats designed for motor use are available in a wide range. Differences according to various criteria, from price to technical characteristics, color and functionality. This choice allows you to choose the best option for everyone.
Let's celebrate! When choosing a model, professionals recommend taking a closer look not only at cost, but also at quality and sustainability. You should also take into account your own wishes and capabilities in storage, use and transportation.
Production
Previously, fiberglass models were used exclusively as rowing boats due to the large dimensions of the motor. Today there are quite compact units suitable for a variety of vessels. In addition, it became possible to individually manufacture boats, where the manufacturer will take into account all the customer’s wishes and dimensions. Due to the fact that fiberglass has a high level of elasticity, the finished product can take any shape.
Today, the market is rich in a variety of plastic boats, not only from foreign, but also from domestic manufacturers. The most common and high-quality models include the following fiberglass boats produced in Russia:
- Sparta.
- Paseidon.
- SAVA.
- Bottlenose dolphin.
Russian-made boats have excellent technical qualities and a fairly wide price range. They are widely used not only on vacation, but also for fishing.
Painting
Fiberglass boats do not require annual painting, however, over time, the material loses its original shine and requires updating. It is best to leave the boat to a professional service for painting. However, even professional equipment cannot fully compare with the native coating. In a professional service, painting is carried out in the following ways:
- With a spray gun. Before carrying out work, all elements that do not need painting should be sealed with protective tape.
- Brush or roller. This method is cheaper than the previous one, but no worse in quality.
In addition to the painting method, there is a choice of materials. Usually paints are used based on:
- Polyurethane. Which is the most reliable and high-quality type.
- Alkidov. This type of material is of lower quality than the previous type.
- Epoxides. Which react sharply to changes in weather conditions.
- Ground. This type is only allowed to be used below the waterline, as it corrodes fiberglass.
Design
The production of fiberglass boats begins with a drawing. Designs of boats and boats can be found on the Internet and made independently using the AutoCAD program. When designing, it is important to take into account the rigidity of the material and calculate the ideal alignment of the sides so that there is no heeling on the water. An important stage in the production of a boat is working with the matrix, which must be distinguished by its rigidity. Based on this, two-layer plywood with at least 12 mm thickness is selected for the edges.
For better evenness, it is important to level and sand the sides. Polyester putty should be applied to the matrix; to make the edges even, it is better to use a template spatula. The next step is to apply markings to the product; the correctness of this step is responsible for the ideal shape of the finished vessel.
Next, you need to make a wooden keel, which is responsible for the ease of movement; it will not move from side to side. The wooden keel should then be coated with resin. After which it is removed and the sides are brought to the perfection of the matrix, and glass material is rolled onto the sides. Manufacturing the matrix is considered the most difficult and critical stage. And, if you are not confident in the correctness of your actions, then it is better to entrust this matter to professionals.
Repair
Fiberglass boats also need repairs, just like vessels made from other materials. Fiberglass is distinguished by its fragility; dents and holes often form on it. Repair of fiberglass boats can be carried out not only by professionals; all damage received can be repaired independently by selecting the necessary material, for example:
- Small cracks can be easily sealed with putty, which can be applied several times until the desired result is achieved. After applying the putty, the product should be coated with a primer and painted.
- Gelcoat is applied from a spray bottle for additional protection and a glossy shine. It can be used to repair small cracks.
- Fiberglass is used to repair holes. When applying this material, you should be careful about its cleanliness, since even slight dust on the water will cause bubbles to appear on the boat.
- Resin is often used for repair work. Epoxy sticks better to the old body and hardens within 3 hours. During this period, you can complete the rest of the minor repairs.
Before carrying out any repair work, the plastic must be dried; when working with resin, it is important to prevent the ingress of dust. To ensure that there are no leaks on the finished vessel, it is recommended to give the surface a horizontal position.
Where can I buy it?
It is best to buy a fiberglass boat in specialized stores and on reputable Internet sites. Below are links to some sites and approximate prices for fiberglass boats:
- https://av-marine.ru/steklo-plastikovie/;
- https://www.viza-yacht.ru/;
- https://tiu.ru/Lodki-stekloplastikovye;
- https://flagma.ru/stekloplastikovaya-lodka-so1203671-1.html;
- https://moskva.regtorg.ru/goods/lodki-stekloplastikovye/ .
| Model | Price in rubles |
| Tortilla | 25900 |
| Legant-390 Motorboat | 62900 |
| Killer whale 450 | 45000 |
| Neiva -4 | 59900 |
| Sprint-S+ | 28000 |
| Legant -400 | 94900 |
| Altan 430 | 170000 |
| Spray 430 | 48000 |
| Bester 480 | 117000 |
Today there are many models of fiberglass boats and boats to suit every taste and budget, which allow you to spend time on vacation with your family and enjoy quality fishing.
