Drift boat choice

[d4andc]

Hi guys,

I'm new to the site, as of today!!...(but not to flyfishing)...live on Vancouver Island (Nanaimo), and am wanting to purchase a drift boat to use on VI streams (Cowichan, Stamp, San Juan, Gold, etc.). I have researched 'some' brands to-date; Lifetimer, Wolfe, Clackacraft, Hyde, etc.....and, like you, am trying not to spend a billion dollars (ideally, i could find a second-hand model in good shape).

What do you recommend as far as a brand/dealer? material? (I'm leaning to aluminum...), and how about size? 12ft, 14ft, 16ft?....other options that are a 'must have' (e.g., anchor box, two anchors vs one?...).

really appreciate your 'two cents' guys....great forum.

D4andc

[phearless]

Hey d4andc.
I have a little 10 1/2 foot mini drifter in welded aluminum.
It is by R&B Boats in Marcola Oregon.
She is a little ugly, but works great.
I will post a story on how I aquired the boat later.

[rln]

bigger boats (16x54) float shallower than smaller boats and can handle a bigger payload. If you are fishing 3 guys most of the time get a bigger boat with a 54" or 60" bottom. Fiberglass boats are quietrer and slide better over rocks on low flows. Tin boats have more room and take abuse a little better. Brands like Clackcraft & Willie are top line boats. Personally I would stay away from 12'-14' due to the fact they just don't float shallow enough for the rivers I fish. Another note is the lenght listed by most boat manufacturers is not the center line lenght so a 16' drift boat is usually 15' long in centerline lenght.

[Chilkootangler]

Hey ThereI have been drift boating in the West for more than 10 years. You are right to go aluminum but make sure it hase a UHMW Plastic shoe on the bottom. I had the opportunity to try many boats and I prefer the Hyde due to its rugged construction, modular interior and ability to row very well. I have owned a low side aluminum since 2005 and love it. Although they say it is not a big water boat I have nibbly navigated it through some big class 3-4 water. I drag the thing up cliffs and down cobble slopes with no problem at all. Hydif* is fairly good to deal with.I am selling my boat to upgrade if you are looking for one.Steve