Fishing Boat Pontoon: Essential Features Explained – Must-Have Upgrades for Comfort, Safety & Performance
Picture this: you’re out on the water at dawn, coffee in hand, watching the mist rise off the lake while your pontoon glides smoothly toward your favorite fishing spot—that’s the magic of a well-equipped fishing pontoon boat.
Why Fishing Pontoons Are Taking Over the Water
Fishing pontoons have exploded in popularity over the past decade, and it’s easy to see why. These stable, spacious platforms combine the comfort of a deck boat with serious fishing capability. Unlike traditional V-hull boats that can feel cramped and tippy, pontoons offer a flat, stable deck that’s perfect for casting, moving around, and bringing the whole family along for the adventure.
The secret lies in those aluminum pontoons (also called tubes or logs) that run underneath the deck. Most fishing pontoons use two tubes, though some high-performance models sport three for extra stability and speed. These tubes displace water and create lift, giving you that smooth, stable ride that makes pontoons so comfortable for all-day fishing trips.
The Pontoon Advantage for Anglers
Modern fishing pontoons aren’t just party boats with rod holders slapped on. Manufacturers like Bennington, Harris, and Sun Tracker have designed specific fishing packages that rival dedicated bass boats. You get the casting space of a deck boat, the storage capacity of a center console, and the comfort that lets your non-fishing friends actually enjoy the trip.
A quality fishing pontoon can handle everything from calm lake trolling to aggressive river fishing, all while keeping your gear dry and your passengers comfortable.
Here’s what makes fishing pontoons stand out:
- Stability: That wide beam and dual-pontoon design means you can stand and cast without worrying about tipping
- Deck space: Room for multiple anglers to fish simultaneously without tangling lines
- Shallow draft: Get into those skinny water spots where big fish hide
- Versatility: Fish in the morning, cruise in the afternoon, no compromise needed
Must-Have Features for Your Fishing Pontoon
Livewell Systems: Keeping Your Catch Fresh
A proper livewell is non-negotiable for serious anglers. This aerated holding tank keeps your fish alive and healthy until you’re ready to weigh in or release them. Look for livewells with recirculating pumps that constantly refresh the water and maintain oxygen levels.
The best fishing pontoons include livewells with at least 20-30 gallon capacity. Brands like Lowe and Tracker often include dual livewells on their pro angler models, giving you separate spaces for different species or sizes. The pump system should move at least 500 gallons per hour to keep water fresh, and a built-in aerator adds those crucial oxygen bubbles.
“A well-designed livewell system isn’t just about keeping fish alive—it’s about maintaining water quality that keeps them in tournament-ready condition for hours.”
Temperature control matters too. Some premium models from Bennington and Harris include insulated livewells that maintain cooler temperatures even on hot summer days. This reduces fish stress and increases survival rates for catch-and-release fishing.
Rod Storage and Holder Configurations
You’ve invested in quality rods and reels—now protect them. Integrated rod storage keeps your gear organized, protected, and ready to deploy. Look for lockable rod lockers that run along the sides or under the seats, with foam padding to prevent scratches and damage.
Rod holders are equally critical. Tournament-ready pontoons feature flush-mount holders strategically placed around the deck perimeter. You’ll want at least 6-8 holders for trolling multiple lines. Adjustable holders from brands like Cisco or Tigress let you set the perfect angle for different fishing techniques.
Here’s a tip I learned from a seasoned tournament angler: position your rod holders at varying heights and angles. This prevents line tangles when trolling and gives each angler their own casting zone without interference.
Marine Electronics That Actually Matter
Modern fishfinders have revolutionized pontoon fishing. Garmin’s Striker Plus series and Humminbird’s HELIX models offer crystal-clear sonar imaging that shows fish, structure, and bottom composition in real-time. Side-imaging technology lets you scan up to 240 feet on each side of your boat—that’s like having eyes underwater.
Don’t overlook GPS chartplotters either. Units like the Simrad GO9 XSE or Raymarine Element combine navigation with fish-finding, marking your hot spots and helping you return to productive areas. The transducer placement matters hugely on pontoons—mount it between the tubes for best performance, avoiding turbulence and interference.
For serious electronics, you’ll need reliable power. Upgrade to a dual-battery system with a marine-grade isolator. This lets you run electronics all day without worrying about a dead starting battery. Optima BlueTop or Interstate marine batteries are popular choices that handle deep cycling and engine starting duties.
Comparison Table: Top Fishing Pontoon Features
| Feature/Upgrade | Key Specifications | Primary Benefit | Approx. Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Striker Plus 7sv | 7″ display, CHIRP sonar, side/down imaging, GPS | Crystal-clear fish targeting and structure identification | $599-$699 | Serious anglers wanting pro-level fish finding |
| Minn Kota Ulterra 112 | 112 lbs thrust, i-Pilot GPS, auto-deploy/stow, Bluetooth | Hands-free trolling motor with spot-lock and route recording | $4,299-$4,599 | Tournament fishermen and precision trollers |
| 26-30 Gallon Aerated Livewell | Recirculating pump, timer, overflow drain, insulated | Keeps multiple fish healthy for hours | $400-$800 (installed) | Catch-and-release anglers and tournament participants |
| Humminbird HELIX 9 CHIRP | 9″ screen, MEGA imaging, dual spectrum CHIRP, AutoChart Live | Industry-leading imaging resolution for detailed underwater views | $1,299-$1,499 | Tech-savvy anglers fishing complex structure |
| Hydraulic Steering System | Seastar or Teleflex hydraulic helm, no-feedback steering | Effortless control, reduced fatigue on long days | $600-$1,200 (installed) | Larger pontoons (22+ feet) and frequent boaters |
Trolling Motor Integration
Electric trolling motors transform fishing pontoons into stealth fishing machines. Bow-mount motors like the Minn Kota Ulterra or MotorGuide Xi5 provide precise boat control without disturbing fish. These motors mount on reinforced bow platforms specifically designed for the additional weight and stress.
Thrust matters—calculate about 2 pounds of thrust per 100 pounds of boat weight. A typical 24-foot fishing pontoon weighs around 2,500-3,000 pounds loaded, so you’re looking at motors in the 80-112 pound thrust range. The Minn Kota Terrova 112 with i-Pilot GPS is a favorite among pontoon anglers, offering spot-lock technology that holds your position automatically using GPS coordinates.
Installing a 36-volt trolling motor system (three 12-volt batteries) gives you more runtime and smoother power delivery compared to 12 or 24-volt setups.
Fishing-Specific Seating and Deck Layout
Comfort matters when you’re on the water for eight hours. Look for pontoons with removable fishing seats or flip-up seatbacks that create more casting room. Wise and Springfield make popular marine seats with adjustable pedestals that raise and lower to your preferred height.
The deck layout should prioritize fishing zones. Front and rear casting decks give anglers dedicated spaces with non-skid surfaces. Some models from Lowe and Avalon include raised casting platforms with built-in storage underneath for tackle boxes and gear.
Center walkways should be wide enough (at least 20 inches) for safe movement while fighting fish. Avoid pontoons where furniture placement blocks access to prime fishing areas—flexibility in configuration is key.
Performance Upgrades Worth Considering
Lifting Strakes and Performance Packages
Lifting strakes are those small metal fins welded to the bottom of pontoon tubes. They dramatically improve performance by helping the boat get on plane faster and increasing top-end speed. If you’re fishing larger lakes or rivers where you need to cover distance quickly, strakes are worth every penny.
Performance pontoons from Bennington (with their ESP package) or Harris (Crowne SL series) include strakes, center tubes, and higher horsepower ratings. You’ll see 5-10 mph speed increases and noticeably better fuel efficiency compared to standard two-tube designs.
Always check your lake’s wake restrictions before maxing out performance upgrades—many waters have no-wake zones or speed limits that make high-performance packages unnecessary.
Fuel Tank Capacity and Range
Standard pontoons often come with modest 20-30 gallon fuel tanks, which limits your range. If you fish big water or travel long distances to launch sites, consider upgrading to a larger capacity tank (40-50 gallons). This modification requires professional installation to ensure proper fuel lines, venting, and Coast Guard compliance.
Calculate your range conservatively: most pontoons with 90-150 HP outboards burn 3-8 gallons per hour depending on speed and load. A 40-gallon tank gives you roughly 5-8 hours of mixed cruising and fishing, with reserves for safety.
Anchoring Systems for Fishing
A quality anchor system keeps you positioned over productive structure. Power-Pole shallow water anchors are the gold standard for waters under 10 feet deep—they deploy instantly and hold your boat rock-solid in wind and current. The Power-Pole Blade or Micro models work perfectly on pontoons.
For deeper water, a traditional anchor with sufficient rode (line and chain) is essential. Carry at least 7 feet of rode for every foot of water depth you fish. A 15-20 pound fluke or Danforth anchor handles most conditions for boats under 26 feet. Install bow and stern anchor cleats for versatility in positioning.
Safety and Storage Essentials
Properly Sized Life Jackets and Safety Gear
The Coast Guard doesn’t care how great your fishing setup is if you’re missing required safety equipment. Every pontoon must carry one Type I, II, or III life jacket per person, plus one throwable Type IV device for boats over 16 feet. Store them in easily accessible locations—not buried under tackle bags in a front locker.
Consider upgrading to inflatable PFDs from brands like Mustang Survival or Onyx. These comfortable vests inflate automatically when submerged, providing better flotation than bulky foam jackets while being comfortable enough to actually wear while fishing.
Check your fire extinguisher dates annually and replace expired units—a dead extinguisher is worse than useless in an emergency.
Additional required equipment includes:
- Sound-producing device (horn or whistle)
- Visual distress signals (flares) for coastal waters
- Navigation lights for after-dark operation
- Fire extinguisher (B-I rated minimum)
- Current boat registration documents
Weather-Resistant Tackle Storage
Fishing gear is expensive, and marine environments are brutal on equipment. Invest in quality storage solutions that protect your investment. Plano and Flambeau make excellent waterproof tackle systems that fit pontoon storage compartments perfectly.
Built-in tackle centers from manufacturers like Bennington and Premier often include dedicated compartments with drainage for wet gear. If your pontoon lacks these features, portable tackle stations from Rubbermaid or Plano mount securely to deck rails and keep everything organized.
Soft-sided bags from Yeti or Engel work great for terminal tackle and tools. Their Hopper series coolers also double as tackle storage, with leak-proof zippers and heavy-duty construction that survives years of marine use.
Bimini Tops and Weather Protection
A quality Bimini top isn’t just about comfort—it’s about extending your fishing season and protecting expensive electronics from sun damage. Look for marine-grade canvas or Sunbrella fabric with full stainless steel frames. Taylor Made and Attwood make reliable universal Bimini tops that fit most pontoon configurations.
Consider a top with zippered side curtains for rain protection. Being able to stay on the water during light rain extends your fishing time significantly. Full enclosures from brands like Carver transform your pontoon into a year-round fishing platform in moderate climates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the minimum HP needed for a fishing pontoon?
For pontoons 20-24 feet long, you’ll want at least 90-115 HP for decent performance. Smaller 16-18 foot models run fine with 60-75 HP. Match your motor to the boat’s maximum HP rating listed on the capacity plate—never exceed this rating for safety reasons.
Do I really need a fishfinder if I fish familiar waters?
Even on lakes you know well, fishfinders reveal seasonal changes in fish location and bottom structure. Modern units like the Garmin Striker series start around $200 and dramatically increase your catch rates by showing exactly where fish are holding.
How much maintenance do pontoon tubes require?
Aluminum pontoon tubes are remarkably low-maintenance. Rinse with fresh water after saltwater use, inspect regularly for damage, and touch up any scratches to prevent corrosion. Quality pontoons from Bennington or Harris can last 20+ years with minimal care.
Can I add a trolling motor to any pontoon?
Most fishing pontoons come pre-wired for trolling motors with reinforced bow platforms. Adding one to a standard pontoon requires structural reinforcement and electrical work—consult a marine dealer to ensure proper installation that won’t void warranties.
What’s the ideal pontoon length for serious fishing?
For versatility and performance, 22-24 foot pontoons hit the sweet spot. They’re large enough for stable fishing and comfortable seating, yet small enough for single-axle towing and easier launching at crowded ramps.
How often should I replace my marine battery?
Quality marine batteries like Optima or Interstate typically last 3-5 years with proper maintenance. Replace any battery that won’t hold a charge overnight or shows voltage below 12.4 volts when fully charged.
Are expensive GPS units worth it for lake fishing?
High-end units offer features like side-imaging and detailed mapping that genuinely improve fishing success. However, entry-level GPS fishfinders ($400-600) provide 90% of the functionality for recreational anglers. Upgrade as your skills and needs grow.
Ready to Upgrade Your Fishing Pontoon?
Building the perfect fishing pontoon is a journey, not a destination. Start with essential safety gear and core fishing features like livewells and rod storage, then add electronics and performance upgrades as your budget allows. The beauty of pontoon boats is their modularity—you can customize them gradually to match your evolving fishing style.
Remember that the best boat is the one that gets you on the water consistently. Don’t wait for the “perfect” setup to start fishing. Get out there, learn what you really need versus what’s just nice to have, and build your dream fishing pontoon over time.
What’s the next upgrade on your fishing pontoon wishlist? Drop a comment below and share your must-have features—we’d love to hear what fellow anglers prioritize on the water!
References: Garmin Marine Product Specs, Minn Kota Trolling Motor Guide, U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Requirements, National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Standards
