Boat Types
Bass Boats
Bass boats on Florida lakes and rivers: what they're designed for, how they handle wind and grass, typical ownership costs and what to check when buying.
Bass boats are low, fast freshwater fishing boats built around casting decks, livewells and trolling motors. Florida's lakes and rivers support a large largemouth bass fishery, and this page explains what these boats do well, where they fit and what to look for before you buy.
At a glance
- Typical length: roughly 16 to 21 feet
- Built for: freshwater casting, mainly for bass, often in tournaments
- Typical crew: 1 to 3 anglers
- Common propulsion: single outboard plus a bow-mounted electric trolling motor
What it's built for
A bass boat puts the angler first. Large, flat casting decks at the bow and stern give you room to work lures along grass lines, docks and drop-offs. A low profile keeps you closer to the water and reduces wind drift, while a bow-mounted trolling motor lets you move quietly along a shoreline.
Livewells keep fish healthy for release or weigh-in, and long rod lockers hold several rigged rods. Fiberglass versions are often built to run fast between spots, which matters on large lakes and in tournaments. Aluminum versions trade some speed and ride for lower weight and simpler upkeep.
Where it fits in Florida
Florida is widely known as a bass fishing destination, and bass boats are at home on its freshwater. Lake Okeechobee, the Kissimmee Chain, Lake Tohopekaliga, Rodman Reservoir, Lake Istokpoga, the Harris Chain and the St. Johns River are all places you will see them. Many Florida lakes are shallow and grassy, so a boat with a good trolling motor and, often, shallow-water anchors fits local fishing styles.
The limits are wind and open water. Big, shallow lakes can turn rough fast on breezy afternoons, and a low-sided boat takes spray and water over the bow in steep chop. Bass boats are not designed for bays, inlets or the ocean. Hydrilla and other vegetation can also clog cooling intakes and props, so learning to read grass and running lines is part of Florida bass boating.
Moving your boat between lakes means cleaning plants off the hull and trailer each time. FWC encourages boaters to help stop the spread of invasive species; see our environmental rules page.
Pros and trade-offs
| Pros | Trade-offs |
|---|---|
| Large, stable casting decks | Low freeboard is uncomfortable in rough water |
| Fast runs between fishing spots | Higher performance means higher fuel use |
| Purpose-built livewells and rod storage | Limited seating for non-fishing passengers |
| Trolling motor and shallow-water tools fit Florida lakes | Mainly a freshwater boat |
| Easy to trailer between lakes | Electronics and batteries add cost and upkeep |
Ownership costs to plan for
The engine is usually the single biggest cost driver. Higher-horsepower outboards burn more fuel and cost more to service and insure. Electronics are the next big item: sonar units, mapping and trolling motors are expensive to add and to replace as technology changes.
Budget for multiple deep-cycle batteries and an onboard charger, trailer maintenance (bass boats spend a lot of time on the road), insurance, registration and storage. Tournament anglers should also factor in entry fees and travel. Our boat ownership cost and boat storage pages cover the details.
What to check before buying
Before you buy
- Check the transom and deck for soft spots, stress cracks or flex
- Inspect the hull bottom and keel for gouges from stumps or ramps
- Confirm the engine hours and ask for service records
- Water-test the boat and check top speed, handling and hole shot
- Test the trolling motor, shallow-water anchors and all electronics
- Confirm the livewell pumps, aerators and bilge pump work
- Check battery age and the charging system
- Inspect the trailer, especially bearings, bunks, lights and brakes
- Verify the hull identification number against the title
See buying a used boat for a complete inspection process.
Financing
A well-equipped bass boat with electronics can be a significant purchase. Run the numbers for the boat, motor and trailer package with the Boat Loan Calculator, and read Boat Financing for an overview of how boat loans work.
Frequently asked questions
Can you take a bass boat into saltwater in Florida?
Some owners fish brackish rivers and protected coastal water, but bass boats are built mainly for freshwater. Their low sides and open decks are poorly suited to bay chop, and saltwater adds corrosion care for the engine, trolling motor and trailer.
Do bass boats work on Lake Okeechobee?
Bass boats are widely used on Lake Okeechobee, but the lake is large and shallow, so wind can build rough water quickly. Check the forecast, know the marked channels and be ready to change plans.
Should I choose a fiberglass or aluminum bass boat?
Fiberglass bass boats generally ride smoother and run faster in chop, while aluminum bass boats are lighter, need less horsepower and tolerate bumps well. Your budget, tow vehicle and the waters you fish most should guide the choice.
