Skiffs are one of the most popular types of boats out there. They come in all shapes and sizes, from small two-man mini skiffs to larger models that can accommodate up to six anglers. Some skiffs are basic and practical, while others are designed for specific purposes. The important thing to remember is that no matter what kind of fishing you enjoy or what tactics you prefer, there's likely a skiff out there that's perfect for you.
The Definition of a Skiff Boat
When it comes to defining a skiff, it's important to note that the term can mean different things to different people. Essentially, a skiff is a relatively small, simple, open boat. This category includes center console boats, tiller-steer boats, side console boats, and various other designs that all fall under the basic definition of a skiff. Additionally, there are subcategories such as flats skiffs, which are specifically designed for fishing in southern flats, and crabbing skiffs, freshwater fishing skiffs, and sailing skiffs. Essentially, any relatively small and open boat can be accurately referred to as a skiff, including rowboats.
Features of Skiff Boats
Most skiffs are powered by outboard motors and are typically under 20 feet long, with the 15- to 17-foot range being quite common. They usually have minimal amenities beyond seating and are relatively light, affordable, and low-maintenance compared to other types of boats.
Top Skiff Boat Brands
As for the best skiff boat brands, it's important to note that most owners of skiffs, regardless of the brand, tend to have a strong affection for their boats. However, after careful consideration, we have identified a few top contenders in various popular categories for those interested in purchasing a skiff.
Top Value Skiff Boats
When it comes to skiff boats, finding the best value for your money is crucial. While skiffs generally come with a lower price tag compared to other types of boats, some models stand out by offering exceptional value. The following skiff boats are not necessarily the cheapest on the market, but they undoubtedly provide a lot for the price, making them strong contenders for the title of the best skiff for the money.
Mako Pro Skiffs
Mako Boats offers a range of fishing skiffs, with models ranging from 13’6” to 19’4”. Priced between $18,000 and $45,000, these skiffs are sold as fully outfitted packages, complete with the outboard engine and a trailer. Equipped with features such as fishing rod holders, raised casting decks, USCG navigation lights, and, on most models, livewells and coolers, these skiffs provide excellent value for their price. One of the main drawbacks of skiffs is their susceptibility to pounding in choppy waters due to their flat bottoms. Mako Pro Skiffs address this issue with their Advanced Inverted V (AIV) hullform, which provides improved stability and significantly reduces the impact of choppy waters.
Veer
A newcomer to the market, Veer introduced a single model in 2023, measuring 13’ in length and 4’ in width. This model is offered as a boat-motor-trailer package and is compatible with both gasoline outboard and Mercury’s Avator electric outboard. With an MSRP of under $12,000, the Veer skiff presents an exceptional value proposition. Constructed from rotomolded polyethylene and foam-filled, it features fishing rod racks, in-deck stowage compartments, integrated cupholders, and an aft bench seat, making it a well-equipped option for its price.
Tracker
While the Tracker Grizzly lineup is commonly referred to as Jon boats, these aluminum constructions also fall under the category of skiffs. The 16’ and 17’ models are available as hull-only options, starting at under $5,500, whereas the larger 18’ and 20’ models are offered as boat-motor-trailer packages, beginning at less than $25,000. With a slight V in the hull and lightweight aluminum construction, these boats are straightforward, easy to launch, load, and tow, making them a practical and affordable choice for boating enthusiasts.
Top Skiff Boats for Handling Rough Waters
When it comes to owning a skiff, dealing with bumpy and wet conditions in choppy seas is a common downside due to their size and typically flat hullforms. Some skiffs even struggle in calm waters. However, there are a select few that stand out as the best options for handling rough water with ease.
Boston Whaler Skiffs
While Boston Whaler may not be the first brand that comes to mind when thinking about skiffs, they offer three models (the 130 Super Sport, 160 Super Sport, and 15 Montauk) that fit the basic definition of a skiff. With hulls featuring 13-, 15-, and 20-degree angles, these models are capable of handling waves much better than the average skiff. Additionally, they are considered to be some of the safest skiff boats, as their hulls and decks are constructed with closed-cell foam, making them unsinkable. It's important to note, however, that these skiffs are among the more expensive options in the skiff category.
C-Hawk Skiffs
The C-Hawk 16 Tiller is a straightforward skiff with minimal amenities, such as bench seats, cleats, navigation lights, and a pair of rod holders. It features a tri-hull entry with a deep center V and 10 degrees of transom deadrise, which allows it to handle choppy waters exceptionally well, even while running at speeds between 16 and 18 mph. While C-Hawk is not a large manufacturer and produces fewer of these models, if you come across one, it's a great choice for those seeking a simple and affordable skiff that performs impressively in rough waters.
Coastal Skiffs
Coastal Skiffs offers a range of boats from 17’1” to 27’1”, and their Coastal 271 model stands out as one of the best skiffs for rough water conditions. With its exceptional size and mass, this large skiff can handle rough waters better than most. Its V-shaped bow and flat aft design allow it to split open larger waves, and its weight of 2,400 pounds gives it the strength to navigate waves without being overpowered. Additionally, the Coastal 271 has the capacity to accommodate up to 12 people, surpassing the average skiff's capacity, and can handle up to 200 horsepower on the transom.
Top Fishing Skiff Boats
When it comes to fishing, all skiffs are suitable, but some stand out from the rest. The best fishing skiffs are equipped with a full range of integrated angling features, and the ones mentioned here also offer the option to semi-customize according to your fishing preferences.
Carolina Skiff
Carolina Skiff offers a diverse selection of skiffs ranging from 16’2” to 26’0”. These boats are well-equipped for fishing, featuring rod holders, livewells, and integrated fishboxes. In addition to the standard features, they also come with extras such as diamond-stitched upholstery, telescopic ladders, and colored gel coats. Furthermore, these boats are fully-linered, ensuring a higher level of fit and finish compared to many other skiffs. Customization options include Bimini tops and electric trolling motors. While these boats may be pricier than others, the complexity, attention to detail, and customization options make them worth the investment for avid anglers. Moreover, with a semi-V entry and flat aft end, Carolina Skiffs have minimal hull draft, allowing for fishing in shallow waters, with the 162 model requiring just six inches to float and the 26-footer having a draft of only eight inches.
Sundance
The Sundance line may be limited to just four models in 20- and 22-foot lengths, but they are designed as ultimate fishing machines. These skiffs feature integrated forward and rear casting decks, standard rod holders and livewells, and pre-wiring for a bow-mount electric trolling motor. Despite their focus on fishing, these skiffs are also capable of reaching high speeds, with some models reaching over 40 mph when powered appropriately.
Top Flats Skiff Boats
When it comes to flats skiffs, there are several options available, but only a few truly stand out. These boats are specifically designed to excel in shallow waters, offering anglers an advantage over the competition. Let's take a look at some of the best flats skiffs on the market.
Hewes
With just three models in their lineup, Hewes has focused on quality over quantity. The Redfisher 16, Redfisher 18, and Redfisher 20 are all constructed using the VARIS vacuum-assisted resin-infusion system, resulting in lightweight yet incredibly strong boats. This allows them to reach impressive speeds, with the Redfisher 20 capable of exceeding 60-mph when rigged with a single Yamaha F300. Additionally, these boats feature spacious casting decks, illuminated livewells, and multiple rod racks, providing anglers with everything they need for a successful day on the water.
Maverick
Maverick's lineup may be limited, but their boats are packed with features specifically tailored for flats fishing. With options including a pair of 17-footers and an 18-foot model, these skiffs come equipped with poling platforms, casting platforms, push-pole holders, trolling motor wiring, release wells, and lean bars. To cater to fly anglers, all hardware is flush-mounted to minimize the risk of snags, making these boats a top choice for those who prefer fly fishing in shallow waters.
Top Micro Skiff Boats
When it comes to small flats skiffs designed for two anglers, micro skiffs are the go-to choice. These mini skiffs are capable of floating in ankle-deep water and can be easily poled all day long without causing fatigue.
Beavertail Skiffs
Beavertail skiffs offer a variety of flats skiffs, including the 16 Micro. This boat has a shallow draft of only five inches (engine up), weighs a mere 400 pounds, and requires just 30 horsepower. Available in both side console and tiller-steer versions, this vacuum-infused vinylester boat is highly customizable. Anglers can choose from a range of options, from flyline toerails to LED lighting on the poling platform, ensuring that all their needs are met.
Hell’s Bay
Hells Bay manufactures a range of flats boats, including the Glades Skiff, which measures 17’8” in length. Despite its length, it qualifies as a micro skiff due to its svelte 4’ 10” beam, four-inch hull draft, and a mere 440 pounds of displacement. This long yet skinny micro skiff is powered by 30 horses and is designed to navigate the tight backcountry waterways that other boats cannot access. Its construction involves high-tech processes, with a carbon-Innegra hull vacuum infused over Core Cell, ensuring durability and performance.
Solo Skiff
For those who prefer solo fishing adventures, the Solo Skiff stands out as one of the best micro skiffs available. This 14’5” 150-pound vessel is designed for single-person use and is rotomolded out of high-density polyethylene. With a six-horsepower outboard, it can reach speeds of over 15 mph, boasting a record-setting three-inch minimum draft. Additionally, its compact size allows it to fit in the back of a full-sized pickup truck. While it may lack frills, the boat features an integrated cooler, a dry stowage box that doubles as a seat, and grab handles fore and aft, catering to essential needs for a solo fishing expedition.
Ready to find the ideal micro skiff for your needs? Whether you've found the perfect match or need to explore more options, take a look at some options available right now. With numerous choices to consider, exploring additional options is the key to finding the best small skiff boat that meets all your requirements.