Best Fishing Pontoon Boat 2025: Top Models Compared for Anglers & Families
You’re standing at the dock, watching a sleek pontoon glide past with anglers casting from every corner, and you think—could that be my next fishing rig?
Why Fishing Pontoon Boats Are Taking Over the Water
Fishing pontoon boats have exploded in popularity over the last five years. They offer something most fishing boats don’t: space, stability, and comfort all rolled into one. You’re not sacrificing anything here. These boats give you a rock-solid platform for casting, plenty of room for gear (and your crew), and the kind of smooth ride that keeps everyone happy—even the non-anglers in your family.
Traditional bass boats are fast and nimble, sure. But when you’re out for a full day with kids, coolers, fishing rods, and maybe a dog, a pontoon just makes sense. The wide deck layout means no one’s tripping over tackle boxes, and the enclosed pontoons provide incredible buoyancy and stability—even in choppy water.
What Makes a Pontoon Boat Great for Fishing?
Not all pontoons are created equal when it comes to fishing. Here’s what separates a good fishing pontoon from a floating picnic table:
- Livewell systems that keep your catch fresh and lively
- Rod holders (the more, the better—built-in is ideal)
- Fishfinder mounts and pre-wired electronics
- Casting decks with non-slip surfaces
- Ample storage for tackle, coolers, and life jackets
- High-performance engines (150+ HP if you want speed)
A quality fishing pontoon should feel like a dedicated fishing machine, not just a party barge with a couple of rod holders slapped on.
Top Fishing Pontoon Boats in 2025: Real Models, Real Performance
Let me walk you through some of the best fishing pontoon boats you can actually buy right now. I’ve spent time researching specs, talking to owners, and comparing what’s available from trusted manufacturers.
Sun Tracker Fishin’ Barge 22 DLX
This is the entry-level champion for anglers on a budget. Sun Tracker has been building fishing pontoons for decades, and the Fishin’ Barge 22 DLX delivers solid value. You get a 30-gallon aerated livewell, four fishing seats with storage underneath, and eight rod holders scattered around the deck. The boat comes with a Mercury 90 HP engine as standard—not blazing fast, but enough to get you to your fishing spot without burning through gas.
The deck is covered in marine-grade vinyl flooring that’s easy to clean (trust me, you’ll appreciate this after a messy day of catfish). The helm includes a Lowrance fishfinder mount and space for a VHF radio. It’s a no-frills boat that just works.
Best for: Weekend anglers, families who want a dual-purpose boat, first-time pontoon buyers.
Bennington 23 SSRFB (Stern Seat Fishing Bow)
Bennington is known for quality, and the 23 SSRFB is their answer to serious fishing enthusiasts. This boat features an innovative fishing bow layout with a raised casting platform, multiple rod holders, and a 40-gallon insulated livewell with dual pumps. The triple-tube design (with the center tube being 26 inches in diameter) gives you better handling and speed—you can push this boat with a Yamaha 250 HP engine and hit speeds over 40 mph.
The construction is top-tier. Bennington uses heavy-gauge aluminum and through-bolts every joint (no rivets that can pop loose). The deck includes in-floor storage compartments and pre-wired USB charging ports. You’re looking at a premium price, but you’re getting a boat that’ll last 20+ years with proper care.
Pro tip: The triple-tube setup makes a huge difference in rough water—you’ll feel more confident running to offshore structure.
Lowe Retreat 230 RFL (Rear Fish & Lounge)
Lowe’s Retreat 230 RFL is the compromise king—it balances fishing features with family comfort better than almost anything on the market. The rear lounge converts into a fishing station with swivel seats and rod holders. You get a 28-gallon aerated livewell, plenty of dry storage, and a trolling motor mount on the bow.
The boat uses Lowe’s Sport Tube technology (they’re 25-inch diameter tubes with a unique cross-section shape) that improves performance without going full triple-tube. A Mercury 150 HP outboard is typical, giving you a solid mix of speed and fuel efficiency. The helm station is spacious with room for a 9-inch or 12-inch Garmin ECHOMAP fishfinder/GPS combo.
Safety note: Always check your livewell pump operation before launching—a malfunctioning pump can stress or kill your catch before you even notice.
Fishing Pontoon Comparison: Key Features Side-by-Side
| Model | Length | Engine Options | Livewell Capacity | Tube Design | Top Speed | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Tracker Fishin’ Barge 22 DLX | 22’6″ | 90-115 HP | 30 gallons | Dual 25″ | ~25 mph | $30,000-$38,000 | Budget-conscious families |
| Bennington 23 SSRFB | 23′ | 150-300 HP | 40 gallons | Triple (26″ center) | 40+ mph | $75,000-$95,000 | Serious anglers, performance seekers |
| Lowe Retreat 230 RFL | 23′ | 115-200 HP | 28 gallons | Dual 25″ Sport Tube | ~30 mph | $48,000-$62,000 | Families who fish regularly |
| Avalon Catalina Platinum Entertainer Fishing | 25′ | 150-250 HP | 35 gallons | Triple 25″ | 35 mph | $65,000-$82,000 | Entertaining + fishing combo |
| Crest Caribbean 230 SLR² Fishing Package | 23′ | 150-250 HP | 32 gallons | Dual 27″ SLR² | ~33 mph | $58,000-$72,000 | Mid-level performance fishing |
How Tube Design Affects Your Fishing Experience
Here’s something a lot of first-time pontoon buyers don’t understand: tube diameter and configuration matter more than you think. Dual 25-inch tubes are the industry standard—they’re stable, efficient, and handle well for most recreational use. But when you jump to triple-tube designs (especially with a larger center tube), you get:
- Reduced porpoising at high speeds
- Better weight distribution when the boat is loaded
- Improved turning response (less sliding in sharp turns)
- Higher speed ceiling before performance drops off
The trade-off? Triple-tube boats cost more upfront and sometimes burn slightly more fuel at cruising speeds. But if you’re running 10+ miles to your fishing spot regularly, the improved ride quality is worth every penny.
“The difference between my old dual-tube pontoon and my new triple-tube Bennington is like comparing a Civic to a Lexus—they both get you there, but the experience is night and day.” — Captain Mike Torres, Florida Keys fishing guide
Must-Have Accessories for Your Fishing Pontoon
Even the best fishing pontoon needs a few add-ons to reach its full potential. Here’s what I recommend based on real-world use:
- Bow-mount trolling motor (Minn Kota Terrova or MotorGuide Xi5)—Gives you precise boat control for working structure or staying over a school of fish. The wireless remote feature is a game-changer.
- Upgraded fishfinder (Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv or Humminbird HELIX 9)—Factory fishfinders are often basic units. A quality sonar system with CHIRP technology and side imaging helps you find fish faster and understand bottom structure.
- Marine-grade cooler (YETI Tundra 65 or Engel 50)—Your pontoon probably has storage, but a dedicated cooler keeps drinks and snacks cold while your catch goes in the livewell.
- Additional rod holders (Scotty or RAM Mounts)—You can never have too many. Mount them on railings using clamps for easy repositioning.
- Hydraulic jack plate (for boats with 150+ HP)—Raises your outboard for better performance and allows you to run shallower water. Brands like Atlas or T-H Marine are solid.
Here’s a tip from a seasoned captain: Invest in quality transducers and mount them properly—a poorly positioned transducer will give you garbage readings no matter how expensive your fishfinder is.
Real-World Performance: What Owners Are Saying
I’ve spent time on boating forums and talked with actual pontoon owners to get the unfiltered truth. Here’s what keeps coming up:
Sun Tracker owners love the value and simplicity. Common comment: “It’s not fancy, but it catches fish and I didn’t have to take out a second mortgage.” The main complaint? The basic seats aren’t super comfortable for all-day trips.
Bennington owners are almost cult-like in their loyalty. The build quality is consistently praised, and several owners mentioned their boats holding resale value better than competitors. The downside? The price tag makes some people hesitate, and parts aren’t always available at small-town dealers.
Lowe owners appreciate the middle-ground approach. It’s nice enough to impress guests but practical enough for serious fishing. Some owners mentioned the factory carpet can hold moisture if you don’t let it dry properly between trips.
Engine Selection: How Much Power Do You Really Need?
This is where people overthink things. Here’s my straightforward advice based on boat length:
- 20-22 foot pontoons: 90-115 HP is plenty for cruising and fishing. You’ll hit 20-25 mph, which is fine for most lakes and protected coastal waters.
- 23-24 foot pontoons: 150-175 HP is the sweet spot. Enough power to pull tubes or wakeboards if you want, and you’ll cruise comfortably at 28-32 mph.
- 25+ foot pontoons: 200-250 HP if you want performance. Anything less and you’ll feel sluggish when loaded with people and gear.
Important: Bigger engines burn more fuel. A 90 HP Mercury might sip 3-4 gallons per hour at cruise, while a 250 HP Yamaha can gulp 15-20 gallons per hour. Calculate your typical trips and fuel costs before going overboard on horsepower.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fishing Pontoon Boats
What’s the best pontoon boat for saltwater fishing?
Look for boats with aluminum framework that’s powder-coated or anodized to resist corrosion. Bennington and Avalon both offer saltwater packages with upgraded hardware and sealed wiring. Always rinse the boat with fresh water after each saltwater trip—it’ll add years to your boat’s life.
Can you fish comfortably from a pontoon boat?
Absolutely. The stable platform and wide deck make pontoons excellent for fishing, especially for families or groups. You won’t get the speed or maneuverability of a dedicated bass boat, but you gain comfort and space. Many anglers prefer pontoons for trolling or fishing structure.
How much does a fishing pontoon boat cost?
Entry-level models like the Sun Tracker start around $30,000-$35,000. Mid-tier boats (Lowe, Avalon, Crest) run $45,000-$70,000. Premium models (Bennington, high-end Avalon) can hit $80,000-$100,000+ when fully equipped. Used pontoons hold value well—expect to pay 60-70% of new price for a 3-5 year old boat in good condition.
Do I need a triple-tube pontoon for fishing?
No, but it helps if you run long distances or want better performance. Dual-tube pontoons handle fishing just fine for most recreational anglers. Go triple-tube if you plan to run a 200+ HP engine, frequently navigate rough water, or want the best possible handling.
What size livewell do I need?
For panfish and bass, a 28-32 gallon livewell is adequate for 4-6 anglers keeping a limit. If you’re targeting larger fish like stripers or salmon, go bigger (35-40 gallons minimum). Make sure it has an aeration system—a simple recirculating pump isn’t enough for keeping fish healthy all day.
How fast can fishing pontoon boats go?
Most dual-tube fishing pontoons with 90-150 HP engines cruise at 20-30 mph. Triple-tube models with 200+ HP can hit 35-45 mph. Speed isn’t everything though—a stable, comfortable ride at 25 mph beats a jarring 40 mph run any day.
Are pontoon boats hard to maintain?
No, they’re actually easier than V-hull boats in many ways. The aluminum construction doesn’t gel-coat to wax and repair like fiberglass. Main maintenance is washing, checking pontoons for leaks, and standard outboard engine service. Keep the tubes clean and check sacrificial anodes if you’re in saltwater.
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing a fishing pontoon comes down to honest assessment of how you’ll use it. If you’re fishing 80% of the time and occasionally cruising, lean toward models with better fishing features (bigger livewells, more rod holders, casting decks). If your trips are 50/50 fishing and family time, look for convertible layouts like the Lowe Retreat that adapt to both uses.
Don’t skip the test ride. Dealers will usually let you run boats if you’re serious about buying. Pay attention to how the boat handles, how comfortable the helm is, and whether the layout makes sense for your fishing style.
And here’s something people forget: your tow vehicle matters. A loaded 23-foot pontoon with a 150 HP outboard and trailer can weigh 4,500-5,500 pounds. Make sure your truck or SUV can handle it safely. Check your vehicle’s towing capacity before you fall in love with a boat.
What’s your dream fishing pontoon setup? Drop a comment below and let us know what features matter most to you, or share your own pontoon fishing stories—we’d love to hear them!
