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A Glossary of the different types of boats
Air Boats
Glide in very shallow water and typically are used for seeing nature and fishing. Power is usually an aircraft engine with propeller for pushing. 18 to 26 ft. long. (Trailerable; 2-5 people)
All-Purpose Fishing Boats
For those who fish from a boat for everything that bites, these are "generalist" craft with space for fishing gear, several bench seats or a few pedestal chair-back seats, a simple steering station or steer-by-tiller. They can be aluminum or fiberglass, are almost always outboard-powered, and are 15 to low-20s ft. long. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)
Bass Boats
Specialty craft for getting to the bass, fast. Accommodate larger outboards. Have lots of storage space for rods and gear. Outfitted with electronics and livewells. Usually feature a raised-deck casting platform in the bow (and often the stern), with provision for an electric trolling motor. Most often fiberglass, but aluminum models are available. Range from 16 to mid-20 ft. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)
Bow Riders
All-purpose runabouts with extra seats and forward access to the bow, a convenient spot to relax and sun. Outboard or stern-drive power. Smaller versions are fine for water skiing; larger versions allow some camping. All are suited to short-distance cruising. Mid-teens to upper-20s ft. long. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)
Canoes
Paddle-powered craft for exploring shallows to running white water. Great for fishing techniques. All-purpose aluminum to high-tech composites. Easy to use and enjoy. Range from about 10 to 22 ft. (Trailerable; 1-3 people)
Catamarans, Power
The two-hull design offers added stability, less hull resistance and a larger load bearing capacity. When under way, air flows between the two hulls creating lift just like an airplane wing. As a result power catamarans tend to gently slice through waves, instead of pounding down on them, offering a smooth comfortable ride at any speed.
Center-Console Fishing Boats
Allow angling from any place on deck, since the control station is located in the center. Generally outboard powered, some have small cabins for the "porta-potty" or to escape a squall. Depending on size, can be used offshore as well as near. Length from mid-teens to high-20s. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)
Cruising Sailboats
Bring the comforts of home and engine-powered travel options to sailboats, offering open-cockpit seating for entertaining above decks and one or more cabins below decks to accommodate family and friends on overnight or extended cruises. Cruising sailboats start at about 30 ft. and keep going up to the "yacht" range at about 60 ft. (Not Trailerable; 1-8 people)
Cuddy Cabins
Small cruisers with compact cabins to camp, do some simple cooking, and get out of the weather. Outboard or stern-drive power. Great day cruisers and overnighters for small groups. Also used on big water for trolling for fish. High-teens to about 30 ft. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)
Day Sailers
Small sailboats suited for short day outings on small lakes or calmer waters, ranging from dinghies (with a centerboard) to more substantial boats with a fixed keel. At about 20 ft., day sailers often include a small cabin or "below decks" area for dry storage. So-called "pocket cruisers" range from 21 to about 29 ft., have cabins ample enough to accommodate berths and amenities for basic overnighting. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)
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