12 Best Duck Hunting Boats – Review Guide

Boats can be geared for fishing, speedboating, or duck hunting. There are also boats that are designed specifically for fishing, and those that are designed for speedboating.

Hunters of all levels enjoy waterfowling, including casual and serious enthusiasts. You’re sure to find the right duck boat for you among the variety of types and configurations available.

Our best duck hunting boats buying guide will explain everything you need to know about duck boats, such as the best brands to choose from and what to look for when buying one.

By using this information, you can determine what boat you need for duck hunting and make sure you’re buying the best boat that meets your needs.

12 Best Duck Hunting Boats

1. Frameless Pontoon Boat Inflatable Duck Hunting Boat

285 Frameless Pontoon Boat by Sea Eagle is the next best duck hunting boat on our list. A small and compact boat that is ideal for one person, as well as being very lightweight and easy to carry.

A 200 kg load capacity can be carried by its hull, which weighs 14kg, has a length of 274cm, a width of 122cm, and a width of 122cm.

In order to provide optimum stability and maximum space on the deck for hunting or fishing, the boat’s designers designed the hull with a U shape. A total of three air chambers ensure your maximum safety in any dangerous situation. 

You will have more deck space on a frameless boat, which means you can carry more guns, ammunition, and hunting gear. It’s also ultraportable and easy to pack into a small bag. 

The product can be used in many types of bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, bays, deep seas, and oceans. In a Sea Eagle Frameless duck hunting boat, you can reach places most other boats cannot.

2. Lowe Roughneck RX2070 Tiller

Featuring a 16 to 20-foot length, Lowe’s Roughneck series will accommodate you, your buddies, and your dogs. As well to prefab blinds that can easily be mounted on popular boats, there are different camouflage patterns to choose from.

Furthermore, compared to other duck boats on the market, this package is reasonably priced for a fully-equipped duck boat.

Must Read: 10 Best Boats For Lakes – Best Review Guide

3. SeaArk Boats Mud Runner 180

Designed for 18 feet and weighing 1,100 pounds, SeaArk’s Mud Runner 180 can take you anywhere you desire.

In addition to its heavy-gauge aluminum construction, the boat is crafted with longitudinal and transverse ribs that provide extra stability when navigating stump-infested waters. EXT (Extreme Turn Technology) only adds to the boat’s performance through an additional 3/16-inch center keel.

Explore More: 6 Best Cuddy Cabin Boats – Buyer’s Guide

If you’re looking to build the best mud runner possible, we offer a Timber Runner Package. With a starting price of $23,377

4. BANKES 17’ FREEDOM

This 17′ Bankes Freedom was specifically built to give you greater freedom when hunting waterfowl. To begin with, its draft measures 5 inches and its hull structure is aligned with a R.I.C. Hull.

When hunting on a smooth-bottomed liner, it has particularly been designed to overcome challenges. The platform is extremely stable due to its heavy-duty construction.

The following method allows you to add additional weight to your hunting gear. Due to the fact that it is not made of wood, you shouldn’t worry about rotting parts. Hand-laid fiberglass is used to construct the entire structure. A camouflage gel coat precast in three colors covers the structure.

An interior fuel tank of 25 gallons, a side console, dry storage spaces on the deck, upper shelves for storage, and decoy shelves are all included.

In addition to twin battery boxes, navigation, and interior lighting, bilge blower, 2000 GPH bilge pump, decoy curtains, rod, and pinion steering, this boat is also equipped with a 12-volt receptacle. A dual electrical panel is located at your fingertips by the console and controls the above-mentioned inclusions.

A well-cloaked blind is included that can be arranged in a number of ways to suit your needs. The blind is extremely durable, constructed from 1000 Denier Cordura nylon, and it has aluminum support bars that are 6061 aircraft grade.

Readmore: 8 Best Aluminium Boats – Buyer’s Guide

5. FishSkiff 16 Inflatable Duck Hunting Boat

We don’t need to introduce Sea Eagle. With more than a decade of experience, they are one of the top companies manufacturing kayaks and boats. Duck hunting boats such as this one by Sea Eagle are known for their stability, tracking,  good speed, and control, as well as their advanced features. 

The boat is designed to carry 3 people, has a hull weight of 45 kg, is 488 cm long, 137 cm wide, and has 3 chambers of air, which will give you excellent catches.

You won’t have a lot of trouble transporting the inflatable boat since it is lightweight and portable. This product easily fits into a car or truck and can be used right away.

Also, the beast can be used with a boat motor, particularly one made by Honda. Its speed can be increased to 21.5 mph with a super speed motor, so you can reach your duck hunting location quickly. 

Designed for maximum performance, handling, stability, fuel economy, and most importantly safety, the hull delivers superior speed, handling, performance, and fuel efficiency. There are three air chambers in the ship that make it partially self-bailing and nearly unsinkable.

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6. Excel Boats Viper F4

It comes with heavy-duty gunwales designed to take a serious beating in the backwoods, so Excel’s Viper F4 can go anywhere humans shouldn’t.

With the KIK-UP transom, you have the option of installing dual gas shocks beneath your lower unit, so you can deal with any impact below the water. There are several seat bases built into the boat, and the step deck makes it easy to get in and out. 

Its control panel is located in close proximity to the driver to make it easier to access the boat’s bilge and running lights, as well as the spotlight option switches.

It is available in 16, 17, and 18-foot lengths, so you can customize it exactly according to your specifications. The price starts at $16,500.

7. Beavertail Custom Aluminum 20’ Boat

Beavertail is a leading manufacturer of legendary waterfowl hunting boats. In Beavertail’s line of boats, the 20′ Custom Aluminum Boat stands out as one of the most unique and innovative.

Its front deck is designed with a fashionable forward tapered design that allows water to run out of the drain hole, protecting you and your hunting gear from water damage. An extremely stable operating stage is provided by a forward deck and flat tread plate floors.

The ultra-durable olive drab paint of the boat provides an anti-reflective & wear-proof finish. There are exterior grab handles on both the front and rear of the vehicle that enhances its robustness and resourcefulness. Additionally, there are interior tie-down loops and front and rear tie-down loops.

A drop floor is specially designed for securing the fuel tank and batteries in the stem. Foam is filled in the front pods and deck floor to provide additional flotation and load offset.

A patent-pending flotation pod, sidewalls measuring 24″ wide, built-in interior tubing, 100 gauge aluminum sidewalls, stems, and hull, as well as two 10′ waterproof gunnel boxes for fishing rods, firearms, and other gear, enhance the boat’s performance. Duck hunters should check out the Beavertail Custom Aluminum 20′ Boat if you are passionate about duck hunting.

8. Tracker GRIZZLY 2072CC

There are three models of Tracker’s Grizzly that range from 16 feet to 20 feet, with tillers, side consoles, and center consoles. The popularity of the series has led to the availability of prefab blinds, as well as a wide range of accessories. 

The aluminum decks on these boats are 0.190 inches thick, and they are coated with a Sure-Tread textured coating. Grassland and Woodland camouflage patterns are both available in addition to the standard forest green powder coat.

9.  375fc FoldCat Inflatable Duck Hunting Boat

Sea Eagle has come up with another beast that is perfect for two people. Designed with versatility and a dark green hunter color, this duck hunting boat easily adjusts to the surrounding environment and water, making it ideal for precise and accurate duck hunting.

Fishing and hunting are ideal with this boat. In addition to having a patented folding frame design, this boat is lightweight, super portable, and easy to carry. No matter how you transport it, how you transport it is never a problem.

Hunting the mightiest duck ever has never been easier with the Scotty universal mount system. You can organize your duck hunting equipment and tools using Scotty mounts. 

Must Read: 10 Best Inflatable Boats – Buyer’s Guide

Additionally, any electric batteries you choose can be mounted on the cross boards of the boat’s floor. Aside from that, this boat also includes padded 360-degree swivel chairs, oarlocks, and a motor mount that allows you to boost its speed through a motor. 

This boat has a carrying capacity of 295 kg, is suited for 2 people, weighs 22 kg, is 375 cm long, 137 cm wide, and weighs 22 kg.

10.  Gator Tail Predator Series

Gator Tail’s Predator Series duck boats are designed for high performance and versatility. This rig combines the best features of the Extreme and Savage series for reliable performance in rivers, marshes, and open waters.

 There are three drive options available on the boat: stick steer, console, and tiller. The bottom of the boat is designed for increased turning. The hull is one piece made of 5086 aluminum and measures 24 inches wide and 24 inches high.

Under-deck storage is available beneath the four-foot deck, which has a pedestal base. Various customization options are available for the Predator, which comes in 17 and 18-foot lengths. A starting price of $22,402 is available

11. PackFish7™ Inflatable Duck Hunting Boat

Do you still want to know what the best duck hunting boats are in 2022? You’ve come to the right place. A boat like this is better than a kayak. You can stay high and dry due to its dry enclosed hull, which is lightweight, portable, and easy to store. With all the features you need for hunting, this boat is well-suited to a wide variety of water types. 

In a small bag, it can be easily stored in your cupboard or garage and belongs to the Sea Eagle frameless series. A frameless boat can be used in lakes, rivers, and creeks due to its framelessness.

This boat has a 1,000 Denier PVC-coated polyester floor stitched with industrial nylon thread and an exterior protective cover. Under 5 minutes are needed to inflate and deflate the boat, which has two recessed one-way valves. 

12. Go-Devil 18×38 Duck Hunting Boat

It has been decades since Go-Devil boats transported waterfowl fans to and from their favorite duck holes. A duck hunting boat that measures 18×38 will be ideal for those who want to save time and travel across the water.

430 pounds, this aluminum rig from Go Devil is built with a slick bottom design that prevents it from catching on stumps, mud, or other water debris.

Gliding over rough water will be a lot easier with the grab bar and the large storage box will keep loads of gear in place. With the boat, you can push a pole that is either 10 or 12 feet long, and the top running lights will brighten your surroundings. $5,495.

Read more: 10 Best Tritoon Boats – Buyer’s Guide

How To Choose The Best Duck Hunting Boat?

It may seem that there are endless accessories, parts, and items for boating that you can use on a duck boat, but there are some that are more essential than others.

Duck boats are made up of two important components: their hull and their motor. Additionally, you can make your waterfowling hunts more pleasant and successful by using the right accessories.

1. Duck Boat Hull Types

Flat-bottomed boats:

A shallow-water game like waterfowling or a variety of shallow-water sports is ideal for these boats. Their wider width makes them more stable for boat blinds and hunting decks, as they require little underwater clearance.

A flat boat’s square bow does not guarantee a smooth ride when choppy waters are present. In shallow water, however, they can make for an ideal choice for duck hunting and trolling.

Semi-V hull: 

A Semi-V hull could be what you’re looking for if you’re looking for something sturdy and versatile. In addition to its pointed bow, this hull type has a flatter bottom, which allows it to operate in shallow waters while still cutting through rough waters.

There are many Semi-V models specifically designed to be duck boats, as they can easily be customized with duck blinds and supplies for duck hunting.

Standard V-bottom:

As for V-bottom boats, these are designed for open-water gaming and waters with a larger surface area. The diving duck hunter will find this type of craft to be ideal since it is generally made of aluminum or fiberglass.

In hunting layouts, they are often used as tenders. The boat is heavier and features high gunwales and transoms to prevent water spillage, as well as sharp keels that are designed to easily separate rough waters.

2. Must-Have Duck Boat Accessories

The following must-have accessories are essential to every waterfowl hunter’s duck boat outfitting, in addition to basics such as life jackets, fishing lines, as well as other essentials:

3. Propeller

Props aren’t always included with motors, so you’ll have to purchase them separately. You should choose a motor that is still suitable for the machine’s original purpose.

4. Gas tank and fuel line fittings

It is necessary to purchase these items separately if they are not bundled with your boat or motor package. You should pick a model that your dealer or manufacturer recommends based on your motor’s specifications.

5. Lights

It is not uncommon for hunters or anglers to mount spotlights or floodlights on the bottom of their duck boats. Consider which style of lights would be best for your needs if your boat didn’t already come equipped with night hunting lights.

6. Select the Motor

Duck boats require different kinds of motors, so keep this in mind when purchasing one. Depending on the type of motor you are looking for, some are suited for shallow waters while others are designed to perform well in waves and strong currents.

In addition, you should consider the weight and noise of the motor, since they will greatly influence where you will be able to hunt and how stealthy you will be able to be.

• 2-Stroke Motor

Consider 2-stroke motors for more versatility. Almost anywhere you need to go on the water can be reached with these simple machines. Their lighter weight and portability make them a convenient choice, as well as their greater responsiveness.

It’s for this reason that duck hunters love them. Their biggest disadvantage is their somewhat loud noise level, which is much higher than that of other motor types.

• 4-Stroke Motor

If you are looking for an efficient but quiet motor, a 4-stroke motor might be a good choice. You can choose from these models if you want a more expensive and more maintenance-intensive option. Compared to other types of motors, these require more frequent oil changes and other maintenance procedures. 

Now that you know how motors and hulls work together, I hope you have an idea of what it is best for you to choose. Sunrise Marine Center can show you our duck boats for sale in Searcy, AR if you need more information.

7. Essential Accessories

If you don’t purchase the boat from a dealer as a package, you might overlook important accessories. There are generally no propellers fitted to outboard motors from the factory, so you’ll need to select one based on your motor and your needs. In addition to the gas tank, you’ll need the right fitting for the fuel line.

 It is very important that the wiring of electronic equipment such as running lights, bilge pumps, depth finders, and trolling motors should be checked with your dealer.

There are many duck hunters who prefer to use spotlight outlets or floodlights mounted on their bows. You will also require life jackets, throw cushions, fire extinguishers, anchors, ropes, spark plugs, and whatever else your local laws require for boating.

Transom savers are also required for outboard motor hunters when towing with an outboard. You should always invest in extra wheels and tires for your trailer.

Duck Boat Buying Tips

1. Know Your Target

The homes of ducks vary from one to another, each with its own unique characteristics. If you want to hunt waterfowl, you’ll want to consider what type of boat will be best for you.

For example, a boat with flat bottoms that can navigate shallow marshes and sloughs in the Midwest will be necessary for hunting Midwest flyways.

2. ChooseThe Best One That Suits You

It’s great to see the fancy, high-end rigs online, but even more enjoyable to see them in person. There may be a better model available, but it is likely to be more expensive compared with what you want.

Generally, duck hunters need a sturdy, heavy-duty boat that remains afloat in shallow water. There’s probably no need for that fancy V-hull complete with lights, storage lockers, blinds, and decking large enough for a gathering unless you’re heading out on the open waters.

3.  Leave Room for the Decoys

Your boat should be suited to the activities you want to perform with it. How many passengers do you want to carry on your boat? Are you hauling a lot of decoys? Room is also needed for other equipment.

You should select a boat that meets all of the requirements for hunting, from the style of the boat itself to its passenger space, storage area, and included features.

4. Double Up with a Hunting/Fishing Combo Rig

It is possible to find duck hunting and fishing boats that include a variety of features for bow fishing, fishing for bass, and other boating activities that have shallow water and flat bottoms. 

Consider expanding your current boat to make sure it can support all your hobbies if you are looking to upgrade? Dual-purpose boats like side consoles and center consoles are also great options.

5. Durability is Essential

It is already expensive to buy a boat. Duck boats, however, are more expensive long-term if you cheap out. If you plan to go over logs, stumps, and shallow water in other obstacles, then you should look for a hull that is welded aluminum or other thick, durable material.

When you choose a less durable type of boat, you may end up getting stuck or tearing out the bottom. While you’re purchasing a boat, you have to consider a lot of things.

The following tips should make the process of narrowing down your choices easier and determine exactly what you are looking for. It is very important to choose a duck boat that satisfies your needs above all else.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Duck Hunting Boat

Here below is this list of the most commonly asked questions about the best duck hunting boats. But if you still have any you can ask me in the comment section.

Conclusion

All the boats listed above are the best-rated products in current market. They all are made have good quality material. I hope so the detail review about every product help you out in choosing the best one according to your requirement.

Anyway, Frameless Pontoon Boat is overall my best choice because it’s easy to carry and lightweight so one person can easily carry it. Instead of these, it has a fast speed and its 3 air chambers give you great safety.

On the other hand, if you are looking for an affordable option you can choose Lowe Roughneck RX2070 Tiller. It offers you great functionality and a secure journey.

The best way to access deeper, productive waters in shallow waters is with shallow, flat-bottomed boats, which can be steered, poled, pushed, or pulled through the shallow, puddle-filled spots. Fishing or hunting from a floating boat requires a high level of maneuverability.

It is important, therefore, to choose a boat that has the best design features and engine. It is important to choose a model that will cruise smoothly and quietly through shallow water. For open water hunting, it should be stable. 

Check the boat’s floor to make sure it can handle large tackle boxes and bulky supplies. Can you think of any other shallow water consoles that are resourceful? Please let us know if this is the case in the comments.