Water element has always attracted a person, and for a fisherman, getting on the water is not just a hobby, but an opportunity to get to the cherished brows and pits, where it is physically impossible to throw gear from the shore. PVC boat fishing It's a radical shift in the way we look for fish, from contemplative to active and productive. Modern inflatable vessels have long since ceased to be flimsy irons, becoming robust platforms that can withstand stormy conditions and the sharp claws of a trophy predator.
But to make sure that the first trip is not the last and the impressions are exceptionally positive, you need to be carefully prepared. Mistakes in choosing the size of the boat, the power of the engine or the way to anchor can cost not only a spoiled day, but also safety. In this article, we will examine in detail all aspects of water hunting, from choosing the optimal model to the intricacies of installing attachments.
Choosing the Best Fishing Model
The first thing that fishermen encounter is a huge range of inflatable watercraft. For serious fishing, especially with spinning or feeder, the key is the presence of a full inflatable floor of the NDNDM. Unlike the soldered or sleigh options, NDNDM provides a hard, flat surface that allows you to stand on your feet, which is critical when catching large fish or working with multiple rods.
Size matters, but a reasonable limit. For solo fishing on small bodies of water or rivers with moderate currents, the optimal length is the best. 320-360 cmThis boat is light enough to be transported in the trunk of a passenger car and at the same time has an acceptable load capacity. If you plan to go out with a partner or use a powerful engine for trolling, it is worth looking at models from 380 cm in length.
⚠️ Warning: Never load a boat above the maximum load capacity specified in the product passport. Exceeding the limit reduces the height of the board above the water, making the vessel vulnerable to flooding by a wave, which is especially dangerous when a fisherman moves sharply.
Pay attention to the design of the cylinders. The presence of developed hinge bars around the perimeter protects the sides from cuts on the shell or sharp edges of the berths. Also important is the presence of a transom reinforced with fiberglass or plywood, which will withstand the thrust of the engine without deformation.
Equipment and attachments required
The boat itself is a floating vehicle, and it requires proper equipment to make it a complete fishing tool, and the basic kit includes an anchor system, rod holders, and spray protection, and without a reliable anchor, fishing in the current or wind will become uncontrolled drift, making fishing impossible.
The rod holders can be mounted on both the transom and on board using standard liner cables or additional mounts, and it is important that the holders are made of materials resistant to salt water and ultraviolet light, such as stainless steel or quality plastic.
Splash protection is another important aspect of comfort: Installing an inflatable or rigid transom panel (fartuk) prevents water from entering the cockpit when moving against the wave, not only keeping equipment dry, but also increasing the thermoregulation of the fisherman in cold weather.
- 🎣 Cat anchor Or Daenforth anchor is the best choice for a snaggy bottom and current.
- ⚓ Anchor cable - must be synthetic (nylon, polypropylene) and have a length equal to triple the depth of the reservoir.
- 🔋 ACB To power the sonar and motor, use gel or AGM batteries that are safe in an enclosed space.
Installation and operation of the outboard motor
Motorization of an inflatable boat requires strict safety regulations: engine power should not exceed the manufacturer's recommended boat. For models 320-360 cm long, the optimal range is 5-9.9 hp Excess power creates excessive pressure on the transom and can lead to its separation or destruction of the cylinder structure due to hydrodynamic wave.
The motor is fastened by means of rods, which must be tightly tightened. Before each step into the water, check the reliability of the fixation. The engine must hang strictly vertically; distortions lead to deterioration of handling and increased fuel consumption.
Pre-launch check:1. Open the fuel faucet.
2. blow the fuel system (press the pear 3-5 times).
3. Transfer the gas handle to the "Start" position.
4. Pull the starting cord in a sharp motion.
It is important to consider longleg or short-leg For most PVC boats, a standard short leg (S) is suitable, but for some high-transe models, a long (L) may be required to avoid cavitation and loss of thrust.
When installing the motor, make sure that the anti-cavitation plate is located parallel to the bottom of the boat or lowered nose down (by 10-15 mm) for better water absorption on sleeving.
Installation of sonar and navigation electronics
Modern fishing is impossible without a sonar. On a PVC boat, the sensor (transducer) has its own specifications. Unlike boats, you can't drill the bottom here. The optimal solution is to use removable mounts that are fixed on a cylinder or transom.
For boats with inflatable floor of NDND often use the method of mounting the sensor through special "petaks" or pockets glued to the bottom, or use remote brackets on the transom, the main thing is to ensure constant contact of the sensor with water and the absence of air bubbles that distort the signal.
| Type of attachment | Difficulty of installation | Impact on driving performance | Recommended speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| transom bracket | Low. | Minimum | Up to 15 km/h |
| Fixing to the cylinder | Medium | Medium (sailing) | Up to 10 km/h |
| Bottom-cutting (permanent) | High. | Missing. | Anything. |
The sounder screen is best placed on a universal gus holder, which allows you to change the angle of view and quickly remove the device when mooring. Power should be arranged through moisture-proof connectors to prevent oxidation of the contacts.
How to protect electronics from water?
Use special sealers for control units or purchase sounder models with IPX7 protection class. additionally treat contacts with a moisture dislodging spray.
Tactics of catching a predator from an inflatable floating craft
The main advantage of PVC is mobility, you can move quickly between points, explore the bottom topography and catch promising areas that are not accessible to the coast, and the most effective tactic is to fan snags or zigzag along the brow.
When you're fishing for pike or pike, it's important to position the boat properly relative to the wind and current, and you should stand up with your nose against the current or wave, using anchor stretching to fix the course, and this allows you to make accurate throws and control the bait wiring.
Trolling on an inflatable boat is also possible, but requires caution: the speed should not exceed 3-4 km / h, and the length of the dispensable spinning should be such that they do not overlap with the engine or anchor shaft.
- 🐟 Parking search Use the sonar to search for changes in depths and drifters.
- 🎣 Throw. Try to make casts fan from the boat, catching sectors of 30-40 degrees.
- ⚓ Anchorage Use two anchors (nose and stern) for hard fixation in strong winds.
⚠️ Warning: When catching large fish (pike, catfish), never bend over the side too much. PVC boat has a high sailing and low weight, a sharp jerk of the fish or shifting the center of gravity can lead to a tip over.
Safety and rules of conduct in the water
Water doesn't forgive lightheadedness. Even if you're a great swimmer, having a good swimmer is a good thing. lifejacket In cold water, a seizure can happen to anyone, and a vest will give you time and the ability to stay afloat.
Always check the weather forecast before leaving. The wind, which on the shore seems like a light breeze, in open water can turn into a dangerous wave, especially for a lightweight high profile inflatable boat.
☑️ Security check before exit
You can get a puncture not only in the water, but also when pulling the boat ashore. The presence of glue, patches and a pump (better a foot, since the compressor can discharge the battery) will quickly fix the malfunction.
The main principle of safety on the water: sober calculation and the presence of a vest is more important than the experience and power of the engine.
Boat care and storage in the off-season
The longevity of your boat depends on care. After every fishing trip, especially in salt water or in algae areas, the boat needs to be washed with fresh water. The sand and salt act as an abrasive, destroying the protective layer of tissue.
Drying is a critical step, and keeping the wet boat rolled up causes mold to break down the PVC fabric base, and you need to dry in the shade, because direct sunlight when heated can damage the material.
For storage, choose a dry, cool place. The optimal temperature is from +5 to +20 degrees. Do not leave the boat in the cold or near the heating appliances. Before long storage, it is recommended to treat the fabric with special means (UV protectors) that preserve the elasticity of the polymer.
Which pump is better to choose for a PVC boat?
A two-stage foot pump is optimal for fishing, it provides the high pressure required to rigidize the bottom of the NDNDM, and it doesn't depend on the availability of electricity. Electric pumps are good for primary inflating, but the finishing pressure will still have to be reached by hand.
Can I fish on a PVC boat in a strong wind?
It depends on the length of the boat and the experience of the angler. For boats up to 3.2 meters, winds of more than 7-8 m / s are already dangerous. Boats with a length of 3.6 meters with a keel bottom can withstand a wave of up to 0.5 meters, but fishing in such conditions is uncomfortable and risky due to the demolition of gear.
How to blow a boat after fishing?
Don't pump the boat in the sun, but when you blow it out, you can wait until it cools down if you're in the heat. You can blow it out in a few steps, starting with the valves, folding it carefully so you don't damage the seams. Keep it straight for at least a couple of hours after washing.