Hey there, everyone! Jameson Redding here with Road Trip Angler. I'm diving deep into my review of the Sea Eagle FishSkiff 16 inflatable boat. With over a decade of kayak fishing under my belt, I've tried and tested many watercraft, but this one has truly caught my attention. Sea Eagle, a family business since 1968, has a solid reputation for crafting high-quality inflatable boats and kayaks. So, let's see what makes the FishSkiff 16 stand out.
Specifications and Initial Impressions
The FishSkiff 16 measures 16 feet in length and 4 feet 6 inches in width, with a hull weight of just 84 pounds. For such a lightweight boat, it's remarkably spacious and versatile. Starting at $2,199, this boat is rated for up to three people and can handle up to a 9.9 horsepower gas engine. I've been testing it with both an electric Torqeedo motor and a 5 horsepower Honda motor to explore different propulsion options.
One of the standout features is the boat's construction. It consists of four inflatable chambers: two side chambers, the floor, and an inflatable keel. The side chambers and floor can be inflated to a maximum of 15 PSI, thanks to the drop-stitch technology, which makes them incredibly rigid. The inflatable keel, added this year, improves performance by raising the bow and enhancing maneuverability.
Features and Packages
The FishSkiff 16 comes in various packages, starting from the solo package at $2,199 to more feature-rich options that go up to $5,440. My package, priced at around $4,399, included a 5 horsepower Honda motor, a bimini top, a solar charger for the Torqeedo, and four Scotty rod holders. The boat also comes with an extendable paddle, ideal for maneuvering when you're not using the motor.
I added a few YakAttack accessories post-purchase, such as aluminum gear tracks for additional rigging options. The boat's aluminum seat frames come pre-drilled for mounting bases, making customization easy.
On the Water: Performance and Stability
Now, let's talk about performance. Stability is often the first question I get about any boat. At 4 feet 6 inches wide, with a flat bottom and inflatable gunnels, the FishSkiff 16 is incredibly stable. I felt comfortable walking around, even with two kids and my dog onboard. We could easily trade places between the fishing and driving positions without any issues.
Speed is another crucial factor. With a 9.9 horsepower motor, you can expect speeds of up to 20-21 mph. With my 5 horsepower Honda, I reached around 11-12 mph, even with two adults on board. The Torqeedo motor maintained speeds of about 5 mph, which is what I anticipated.
Durability and Maneuverability
Durability is always a concern with inflatable boats, but Sea Eagle has built this one tough. The drop-stitch construction and thick PVC material make it resilient against punctures. I have never had an issue with hooks puncturing any inflatable craft I have tested and this one was no diffrent. The added rubber rub rail around the sides and keel offers extra protection against abrasions from docks or stumps as well. The only true enemy to most inflatables is sharp pointy fish fins, but the Fish Skiff comes with an easy to use patch kit so if you ever do experience a puncture, repairing the boat could even be done while on the water.
In terms of maneuverability, the FishSkiff 16 excels. Its inflatable nature allows it to sit on top of the water, making it easy to turn, even under power. The forward-positioned motor and sponsons at the back improve performance, reducing squat and enhancing speed.
Storage and Comfort
Storage in inflatable boats can be a challenge due to the lack of internal space, but the Sea Eagle FishSkiff 16 offers plenty of D-rings and mounting options for gear. The boat’s seats are comfortable, with cushions on both the back and bottom. The ability to swivel the seats adds to the overall comfort, making it easier to fish from various angles. The EVA foam pad on the deck provides extra grip and reduces heat, making it comfortable to stand on, even in hot weather.
Fishability and Value
Fishability is where this boat shines. It offers ample space to move around, and the stability makes it a great platform for fishing. The boat can get incredibly shallow, allowing access to areas other boats can't reach. The various motorization options and seating configurations make it versatile for different fishing styles and conditions.
Regarding value, the Sea Eagle FishSkiff 16 offers an impressive range of features at a competitive price. Whether you’re a solo angler or like to fish with a buddy, this boat provides a lot of bang for your buck. It’s versatile, lightweight, and capable of handling various water conditions.
Who Is the Sea Eagle FishSkiff 16 Inflatable Boat For?
If you're looking for a boat to take your entire family out, this might not be the best fit. However, if you want a reliable, versatile platform for solo or duo fishing trips, the Sea Eagle FishSkiff 16 inflatable boat is a fantastic option. It's perfect for shallow waters, easy to transport, and offers a range of customization options.
This Sea Eagle FishSkiff 16 review showcases how an inflatable fishing boat delivers on performance, stability, and durability. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting into the sport, this boat is worth considering. Thanks for reading, and as always, tight lines and happy fishing!
Sea Eagle FishSkiff 16 Fishing Boat
https://www.seaeagle.com/InflatableFishingSkiffs/FSK16
Or check out these other great boats from Sea Eagle:
330: https://bit.ly/3SqoVLX 380x: https://bit.ly/37jRbxP 393rl: https://bit.ly/3mVOXbw 385: EZ Lite10: https://alnk.to/9T8Ghj5
Jameson Redding Road Trip Angler
