Many individuals struggle to find their ideal boat. There are simply too many to choose from! But those who decide how they want to experience their newfound hobby will have a much easier time.

From fishing to day cruises to watersports to family joyrides, Dave Hebeda explains that there is a perfect boat for everybody.

For Fishing

The boats below are perfect for those wanting to spend some time doing on-water fishing.

• All-purpose fishing boats — People casting anything and everything should choose the all-purpose model. It boasts extreme versatility.
• Bass boats — Fishermen targeting bass should opt for this ultra-specialized floating machine.
• Center consoles — Saltwater anglers can’t get enough of the flexibility offered by center consoles. Fitting 12 people, the space provided is ideal for fishing, but can double-up as a family vessel.

For Watersports

Everything from riding massive waves on a wakeboard to sailing in all sorts of conditions can be achieved with the boats below:

• Cuddy cabins — If a cruiser and a bowrider had a baby, cuddy cabins would be it. Combining the respective versatility and agility, these eight-passenger trailerable boats have storage for sport gear but aren’t designed for overnight stays.
• Personal watercrafts (PWCs) — Easy to own and oh-so-thrilling to ride, these three-passenger crafts are quick, agile, and performs like a motorbike on water. It’s perhaps the most affordable way for boating wannabes to dip their toes into the water.
• Sailboats — Made solely for those wanting to learn the ins and outs of sailing, sailboats offer rewarding on-the-water journeys in an environmentally friendly man. There are a few different types to choose from, including day-sailers and performance racers.
• Ski boats/wake boats — As the name implies, these boats are perfect for adrenaline-fueled water skiers or wakeboarders. The vessels have come a long way, implementing new technology that make some perfect for wake surfing, wakeboarding, skiing, or all three.

For Family Joyrides

Regardless of a family’s size, boating can be enjoyed together with these boats with deck space galore!

• Bowriders — Though unloved by powerboat purists, bowriders are the feel-good leisure vessels every family adores. Fitting nine passengers, it’s lightweight, shallow, and flighty for easy use and optimal efficiency.
• Deck boats — With a maximum capacity of 14 passengers, the 18-28ft-long boat is perfect for large families. Boasting tons of deck space, it provides more seating and stowage than bowriders.
• Jet boats — Fitting up to ten passengers, today’s jet boats are made for families. With no propeller to worry about, pulling up to sandbars for a kid-friendly splash is a breeze.
• Pontoon boats — They used to be a simple, box-esque floating vehicle, but that’s a thing of the past. Modern pontoons are dubbed “the luxury pleasure-boat,” making them great for family day trips.

For Cruising

Whether weekend-ing it or going for a day crews, people will love the following:

• Cabin cruisers — Consider them the mini vacation homes of the boating world. The 20-40ft-long vessels comfortably contain ten passengers, ensuring the whole family can go on adventures. It’s perfect for day and weekend cruises.
• Trawlers — These slow-and-steady boats are loved by a small but passionate cruising community. Imitating commercial fishing trawlers, the domestic models are built with range and comfort in mind.