Choosing a boat is always about finding a trade-off between mobility, load capacity and comfort on the water, for a fisherman who often changes water bodies or prefers wild shores that cannot be reached by car. flyboat The current polyvinyl chloride (PVC) models are almost as good as aluminum in terms of performance, while remaining light and compact in transportation.
Motor fishing imposes special requirements on the design of the hull, and you have to consider not only the length, but also the shape of the bottom, the height of the cylinders and, of course, the power of the engine installed. Miscalculations can cost not only money, but also safety on the water, so it is worth taking the issue seriously.
In this article, we will discuss what nuances to pay attention to first, so that your boat becomes a reliable partner for many years to come. You will learn about the differences in the design of the bottom and understand why certain modifications are often chosen for fishing.
Key criteria for choosing a boat for the engine
The first thing to determine before buying is maximum powerThe manufacturer always lists this in the product passport, and exceeding the recommended power will lead to transom deformation, seam rupture or, in the worst case, to the boat tipping due to shifting of the center of gravity.
The second important aspect is loading capacityYou don't just have to count the number of people. You have to consider the weight of the motor, the battery, the anchor, the gear, the catch and the fuel, and always take a boat with a payload margin so that the boats are high enough above the water even when fully loaded.
The third criterion is the type of bottom, and for motorized operation, the optimal solution is considered to be the best solution. flatbed It provides better hydrodynamics, allowing the boat to go faster for planing and to keep its course in the side wind.
⚠️ Warning: Never use low-pressure inflatable floor boats with powerful engines without installing additional keels or stabilizers, as their course stability is lower than that of soldering counterparts.
Also pay attention to the presence of timber It's not just a decorative element, it's a protection against impacts on the pier or on the side of another boat, and every little thing that affects the durability of the material is important for fishing.
Design features: cylinders and transom
The diameter of the cylinders directly affects the seaworthiness For fishing alone or together in calm water, the best models with a diameter of 32-36 cm are optimal. If you plan to go to large reservoirs where a wave is possible, you better look at the options with 40-45 cm cylinders.
A trans is your boat's back, taking over all the thrust of the engine, and it has to be made of high-quality moisture-resistant plywood, and it's securely secured in the pockets of the cylinders, and it's important that the transom angle is adjusted or matched to the lower unit of your motor, which is usually 10 to 15 degrees.
The fabrication material also plays a role. The best choice is considered to be a five-layer. reinforced PVC density of at least 750 g / sq.m. Such material is resistant to ultraviolet, gasoline, oil and mechanical damage to sharp stones or shell.
- 🛡️ Protective tapes On the bottom significantly prolong the life of the boat when pulling to shore.
- ⚓ Leer pens They must be stitched, not just glued, for a secure grip in water.
- 🔧 Drain valves Requires for quick removal of water from the cockpit without tilting the boat.
When choosing the color of the boat for fishing, give preference to camouflage colors (olive, camouflage, dark gray) so as not to scare off careful fish in shallow water.
Comparison of bottom types: floorboards vs. NDNDM
The eternal dispute of anglers: which is better - classic floorboard or modern inflatable floor? keelinessThey're better at cutting the wave and allowing you to go faster with less fuel.
But it takes time and physical effort to build a boat, and you have to lay out aluminum or plywood sheets, put in stringers and pump up cylinders, and in the cold season or when you move around often, it can be a tedious process.
Low-pressure inflatable floor boats (LDPBs) assemble in 5-10 minutes. Just spread out, pumped and swam. They're softer on the go and more comfortable for the legs, but they're slower and they're worse off in strong side winds because of their round shape.
| Parameter | Pillet bottom (Hard) | NDND (Inflatable) | Folding bottom (Book) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collection speed | 20-40 minutes. | 5-10 minutes | 10-15 minutes. |
| Hydrodynamics | Great. | Medium | Good. |
| Packaging weight | Highly | Low. | Medium. |
| Comfort standing up | High (flat surface) | Medium (soft but unstable) | Highly |
The choice depends on your priorities: if you want top speed and wave travel, take the paioles. If you want speed and light weight, you can choose. NDMA.
Top manufacturers and popular models
The inflatable boat market is rich in both domestic and foreign brands, and Russian manufacturers have made a huge leap in quality in recent years, offering products that are not inferior to imported counterparts, but at a more affordable price.
Market leaders are traditionally considered companies. Flagship, Aqua, Mev. and SolarTheir models are distinguished by sophisticated ergonomics, high-quality cuts and reliable seams, for example, the series "Flagship" with a reinforced bottom is often the choice of professionals.
Foreign brands such as Yamarin or BadgerThey offer their own technological solutions, often relying on unique shapes of cylinders and the use of special impregnations of fabric.
⚠️ Warning: When buying a used boat, be sure to check the seams for leaks by inflating the boat and leaving it for a day. The glue may eventually dry out and the boat will begin to poison the air.
When choosing a specific model, pay attention to the availability of warranty And the availability of refits, and parts for popular brands are easier to find, which is important for long-term use.
Secrets of PVC's longevity
Keep the boat only in a dry, cool place, straightened or slightly deflated. Do not leave it inflated in direct sunlight for a long time, this leads to glue degradation and fading of the fabric.
Necessary accessories for comfortable fishing
The boat itself is just a base, and full-fledged motor fishing requires refurbishment, and without the right equipment, you can't effectively fish or navigate the water safely.
First of all, take care of the anchor system. For PVC boats weighing up to 200 kg, an anchor weighing 3-4 kg is enough. It is important to use an anchor line with a quick-removal mechanism so that in the case of a hook you can easily free yourself.
And rod and sonar holders will be indispensable, and the mounts will need to be robust and not scratch the cylinders. Many anglers will install transom wheels that allow one person to easily move a heavy motorized boat along the shore.
- 🎣 Spinning holders They allow you to free your hands when working with the motor or anchor.
- 🔋 germ-o-o-o-o- It is mandatory for storing documents, telephone and spare clothes.
- 🛡️ Protective screens The engine will prevent the engine from falling into the boat.
Remember to put life jackets on. It's not just a formality, it's a necessity, especially if you're fishing alone or in difficult weather conditions.
☑️ Season-ready
Off-season maintenance and storage
So, PVC After every fishing trip, especially in salt water or in overgrown water bodies, the boat must be thoroughly washed with fresh water and dried.
Store the product in a case, in a room with a temperature of -10 to +30 degrees. Sharp temperature changes and direct sunlight are the main enemies of polyvinyl chloride. In winter, it is not recommended to leave the boat on the balcony without protection.
Periodically check the valves and lubricate them with a special silicone lubricant, which will prevent sticking and ensure leakage. If you notice minor damage, do not delay repairs - use a remix from the kit.
⚠️ Warning: Never use aggressive chemicals (solvents, gasoline, acetone) to clean the surface of the boat.
Compliance with simple rules of operation will allow you to avoid expensive repairs and enjoy fishing for many years.
Proper storage and regular care increase the service life of PVC boats by 1.5-2 times, maintaining its tightness and appearance.
Results: How to make the right choice
Choosing the best PVC boat for the engine is a personal process, there is no universal answer to which model is right for you, it depends on the operating conditions, the number of passengers and budget.
If you value speed and driving performance, choose models with a hard floorboard bottom and high sides. If you want mobility and quick assembly, look at modern inflatable floor boats (BBD) from proven manufacturers.
The key is to not skimp on safety. Good material, reliable seams and the right engine power will guarantee your confidence on the water. A good boat is an investment in emotions and trophies.
lifehack for transportation
To dirty bottom does not soil the car interior, use a special cover-mat or a piece of dense tarp, which can be quickly rolled up and washed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What pressure should be in the PVC tubes of the boat?
The optimal working pressure is usually 0.2-0.25 atm (or 200-250 mbar). The exact values are always indicated in the product passport. Pumping in the heat can lead to rupture of the seams, and failure to pump - to reduce the rigidity of the structure.
Is it possible to use a PVC boat in winter?
Yes, special winter models made of frost-resistant PVC withstand temperatures up to -40 ° C. However, an ordinary summer boat is dangerous to use at sub-zero temperatures - the material becomes fragile and can crack.
Which motor is better for a boat with a length of 3.2 meters?
For a boat with a length of 3.2 meters with a floorboard bottom, the optimal engine will be a 5-9.9 hp engine. This will provide access to planing with one or two passengers and an acceptable fuel consumption.
How to use PVC at home?
It is best to use a two-component polyurethane adhesive specifically designed for PVC. It provides an elastic and water-resistant seam. chloroprene-based adhesives (such as "Moment") are less durable on water.