Why Lund Boats Are Perfect for Weekend Anglers: A Complete Guide for Recreational Fishermen
There’s a special kind of peace that comes with dropping a line on a quiet Saturday morning, and the right boat can mean the difference between a frustrating day of chasing fish and actually landing your limit. For weekend anglers who want a reliable, versatile fishing platform without the complexity of tournament rigs, Lund boats have earned their reputation as the go-to choice.
What Makes Lund Boats Ideal for Weekend Fishing
Lund has been building aluminum fishing boats since 1948, and they’ve spent those decades perfecting what recreational anglers actually need. Unlike bass boats designed for professional tournaments or deep-sea vessels built for offshore adventures, Lund focuses on creating practical fishing platforms that handle real-world conditions without requiring a marine engineering degree to operate.
The Aluminum Advantage: Durability Meets Low Maintenance
Weekend anglers face a unique challenge—you want a boat that’s ready to go when you are, not one that demands constant attention during the week. Lund’s marine-grade aluminum construction delivers exactly that. The IPS (Integrated Planing System) hull design provides a smooth, stable ride while the aluminum itself resists the corrosion issues that plague fiberglass boats in freshwater environments.
Here’s something most dealers won’t tell you: aluminum boats require about 40% less maintenance time than comparable fiberglass models, which means more fishing and less sanding.
The double-riveted hull construction with a formed aluminum keel creates a tough bottom that can handle the occasional rock or stump without sending you to the repair shop. I’ve talked to Lund owners who’ve bumped submerged logs that would’ve cracked a fiberglass hull, and they simply kept fishing.
Real-World Versatility: Fish Multiple Species Without Switching Boats
One of the biggest advantages of Lund’s design philosophy is versatility. Models like the Lund 1875 Crossover XS and Lund 1775 Impact Sport feature layouts that work equally well for walleye fishing, bass angling, or taking the family out for a cruise.
The rod storage systems accommodate everything from spinning rods to longer muskie sticks, while the livewell configurations (typically 18-30 gallons depending on model) keep your catch healthy whether you’re tournament fishing or just planning dinner. The open floor plans mean you can actually move around without constantly tripping over tackle boxes or bumping into your fishing partner.
“The best fishing boat is the one you’ll actually use every weekend, not the specialized rig that sits in the garage because it’s too much hassle to launch.”
Key Features That Weekend Anglers Actually Use
Fishing-Focused Layouts Without Tournament Complexity
Lund boats strike a smart balance between fishing functionality and user-friendliness. The helm-mounted fishfinder displays are positioned where you can actually see them without installing custom dashboards. The bow casting decks on models like the Impact and Crossover series provide stable platforms for working lures without the sky-high pedestal seats that make trailering a headache.
Most Lund fishing models include:
- Port and starboard rod lockers (7-8 feet long for most models)
- Bow-mount trolling motor plates pre-installed
- Ample dry storage with sealed compartments
- Comfortable seating that doesn’t sacrifice deck space
- Transom-mounted livewell systems with timer and aeration
The console designs keep controls simple—ignition, trim, and basic gauges without the overwhelming switch panels you’d find on high-dollar bass boats. You can hand the helm to a friend or family member without giving them a 20-minute tutorial.
Trailer-Friendly Dimensions and Reasonable Power Requirements
Weekend fishing means frequent launching and retrieval, and Lund understands this reality. Models in their popular range (1775-1875 series) typically measure 17’7″ to 18’9″ in length with beam widths of 92-94 inches, which means they fit in standard residential driveways and launch easily on public ramps.
The power requirements are equally reasonable. A Lund 1775 Impact performs excellently with a 115-150 HP outboard (many owners choose Mercury or Yamaha four-strokes), which costs significantly less to purchase and maintain than the 250+ HP engines required for fiberglass performance boats. Your fuel costs stay manageable—typically 4-6 gallons per hour at cruising speed versus 10-15 gallons for comparable fiberglass boats.
Lund Model Comparison for Weekend Anglers
| Model | Length | Max HP | Key Features | Approx. Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lund 1675 Adventure Sport | 16’11” | 115 HP | Windshield, side console, 14-gal livewell | $28,000-$32,000 | Small lakes, solo/duo fishing |
| Lund 1775 Impact Sport | 17’7″ | 150 HP | Dual livewells, full windshield, spacious deck | $38,000-$44,000 | Multi-species, small groups |
| Lund 1875 Crossover XS | 18’9″ | 200 HP | Convertible seating, large storage, premium layout | $52,000-$58,000 | Family fishing trips, larger waters |
| Lund 1650 Rebel XL | 16’6″ | 90 HP | Tiller steering, simple layout, economical | $22,000-$26,000 | Traditional anglers, budget-conscious |
| Lund 208 Tyee GL | 20’8″ | 250 HP | Deep-V hull, larger capacity, offshore-capable | $68,000-$75,000 | Serious anglers, Great Lakes fishing |
The Weekend Angler’s Perspective: What Owners Actually Say
I’ve spent time at launch ramps talking to Lund owners, and certain themes come up repeatedly. The low-maintenance aluminum hull tops the list—owners mention simply washing the boat and checking the drain plug before storage, unlike fiberglass owners who worry about gelcoat repairs and osmosis blistering.
The resale value is another consistent theme. Lund boats hold their value remarkably well, with 5-year-old models in good condition retaining 65-75% of their original MSRP. Compare that to many fiberglass brands that drop to 50-60% in the same timeframe.
Always perform a pre-launch inspection of your transom drain plug, battery connections, and safety equipment—90% of on-water problems are preventable.
Common Upgrades Weekend Anglers Add
Most Lund owners eventually add a few accessories to customize their experience:
- Upgraded fishfinder/GPS combo (Garmin Echomap UHD 93sv or Humminbird Helix 9 are popular choices)
- Electric bow-mount trolling motor (Minn Kota Ultrex or MotorGuide Xi5 in 80-112 lb thrust)
- Marine VHF radio for safety (Standard Horizon GX1850 or Icom M330G)
- Aftermarket seating like SpringSeat pedestals or Wise Pro casting seats
- Additional rod holders and tackle storage solutions
The beauty of Lund’s design is that these upgrades are straightforward installations—no custom fabrication required for most accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size Lund boat is best for a beginner weekend angler?
The Lund 1675 Adventure Sport or 1650 Rebel XL are excellent starting points. They’re manageable to tow with most SUVs, easy to launch solo, and provide enough fishing space for 2-3 anglers without being overwhelming to operate.
How much does it cost to maintain a Lund boat annually?
Expect $600-$1,200 per year for basic maintenance including engine service, lower unit oil changes, and general upkeep. This is significantly lower than fiberglass boats of comparable size, which often run $1,500-$2,500 annually.
Can Lund aluminum boats handle rough water?
Absolutely. The IPS hull design handles chop and waves well for an aluminum boat. Models 18 feet and larger with the deeper-V hull configurations (like the Tyee series) perform confidently in larger lakes and coastal bays with 2-3 foot waves.
What’s the fuel economy like on a typical Lund fishing boat?
A Lund 1775 Impact with a Mercury 115 HP four-stroke typically achieves 4-5 miles per gallon at cruising speed (3500-4000 RPM). This translates to roughly $30-$40 for a full day of fishing, depending on fuel prices and how much running you do.
Are Lund boats suitable for family activities beyond fishing?
Definitely. Models like the Crossover series include convertible seating, ample storage for water sports gear, and comfortable layouts for cruising. Many owners use them for tubing, swimming, and general lake recreation when they’re not fishing.
How long do Lund boats typically last?
With proper care, a Lund aluminum boat can last 30-40 years or more. The aluminum hull doesn’t degrade like fiberglass, and the major wear items (upholstery, electronics, engine) are replaceable. Many 20+ year old Lunds are still fishing regularly.
Do I need special skills to operate a Lund boat?
Not at all. The control layouts are intuitive, and the boats handle predictably. If you can drive a car and back up a trailer, you can operate a Lund. Most new owners are comfortable after 2-3 outings.
Final Thoughts: The Weekend Angler’s Smart Choice
Lund boats represent a practical middle ground that weekend anglers appreciate—capable enough for serious fishing, simple enough to not dominate your free time with maintenance, and versatile enough to serve multiple purposes throughout the boating season. The aluminum construction means you’re not babying the boat or worrying about every dock bump, and the reasonable power requirements keep operational costs manageable.
For recreational fishermen who want to maximize time on the water rather than time working on the boat, Lund’s approach to boat building makes perfect sense. What’s your experience with aluminum fishing boats, or are you considering making the jump to a dedicated fishing platform? Drop a comment below and share what features matter most for your weekend fishing adventures!
References: Pricing data based on 2024-2025 MSRP from authorized Lund dealers. Specifications verified through Lund Boats official website and owner’s manuals. Maintenance estimates from surveyed boat owners and marine service centers.
