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Key Takeaways
- When it comes to rough water walleye fishing, bigger boats are generally better due to better stability.
- Look for boats with all-composite hulls, that are lightweight, and provide a smooth ride.
- Consider a high horsepower rating to help you navigate rough water easily and quickly.
- Research popular models that are known for their ability to handle rough water.
Don't let rough water deter your walleye fishing game. Check out our top picks for the best boats and find the perfect boat for rough water walleye fishing.
My top picks for the best rough water walleye boats are Lund 2175 PRO V, Ranger 620FS, and Warrior V2090. These boats are sturdy, reliable, and can handle the choppy waters of big lakes and rivers. They also have a spacious deck for casting and reeling fish.
As an experienced angler and boat enthusiast, I have spent countless hours researching to bring you a list of the best rough-water walleye boats available. I've also consulted with industry experts, read customer reviews, and personally tested these boats in various conditions to ensure that we're providing you with the most reliable and up-to-date information. So, if you’re unsure which boat is best for you, here are the top recommendations to get you started.
Top Rough Water Walleye Boats on the Market
If you're looking for a walleye boat that can handle choppy conditions, you have several options to choose from.
Here are some of the top rough-water walleye boats on the market:
1. Lund 2175 PRO V
Topping my list as the best rough water walleye boat is the Lund 2175 PRO V. Most tournament anglers prefer this boat, so if you're looking for a top-quality boat that can handle rougher waters and give you a professional fishing experience, this is a great choice.
This fishing boat is designed to deliver the professional quality you've expected from aluminum tournament fishing boats.
Specifications
The Lund 2175 PRO V has a length of 21' 11" and a beam of 102". It has a maximum horsepower of 350 hp and a fuel capacity of 60 gallons.
Just like other Lund boats, this boat can accommodate up to 6 people and has a total weight of 2,800 lbs. It comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty on the hull and structure and a 5-year bow-to-stern warranty.
Performance
The Lund 2175 PRO V is built to handle rougher water and provide a smooth ride. It has a deep-V aluminum hull that provides stability and control in choppy waters.
The boat is equipped with a Mercury Verado engine that delivers exceptional power and speed. The Lund 2175 PRO V can reach a top speed of 50 mph and has a cruising speed of 30-35 mph.
What Sets It Apart
The Lund 2175 PRO V is a versatile boat that can be used for both fishing and recreational purposes. It has a spacious cockpit that provides ample room for fishing and storage. It also has a comfortable seating area and a bimini top that provides shade on sunny days.
Benefits
- Stable and smooth ride in rough waters
- Powerful and efficient Mercury Verado engine
- Spacious cockpit with ample storage
- Versatile for both fishing and recreational purposes
- It has a comfortable seating area and a bimini top for shade
Drawbacks
- Higher price point compared to other walleye boats
- A very popular choice with bass anglers
- This is a multi-species boat that can be also be used as a bass boat
- It may not be suitable for smaller bodies of water
- Requires a larger tow vehicle for transportation
Who Should Buy
The Lund 2175 PRO V is suitable for those who enjoy recreational boating and want a versatile boat that can be used for both fishing and cruising the lake.
However, it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget or those who primarily fish in smaller bodies of water. For smaller water bodies, you can opt for bass boats because they have shallow V hulls.
Where to Buy
The Lund 2175 PRO V can be purchased from Lund boat dealers like Boat Trader. You can also visit the Lund website to find a dealer near you and customize your boat with various features and options.
2. Ranger 620FS
If you're looking for a reliable, high-performance walleye boat that can handle rough waters, the Ranger 620FS is worth considering. Here’s what the boat has to offer:
Specifications
The Ranger 620FS is built with a fiberglass deep-V hull and measures 20 feet, 5 inches in length, with a 100-inch beam.
It has a maximum horsepower rating of 300 and can hold up to 57 gallons of fuel. The boat weighs around 2,150 pounds and has a maximum weight capacity of 2,150 pounds.
Performance
The Ranger 620FS is known for its exceptional performance on the water and is one of the highly-regarded glass boats among anglers. It has a stable and smooth ride in choppy waters.
The boat is equipped with a high-performance outboard engine that provides plenty of power and speed, making it easy to get to your favorite fishing spots quickly.
What Sets It Apart
One of the standout features of the Ranger 620FS is its advanced fishing technology. It comes equipped with a Lowrance HDS LIVE fishfinder/Chartplotter, which provides detailed information about the underwater environment and helps you locate fish more easily.
The boat also has a Minn Kota Ultrex trolling motor with i-Pilot Link, which helps ensure precise boat control and navigation.
Benefits
- It offers a smooth ride in aggressive waters when its windy
- Its high-performance outboard engine provides plenty of power and speed
- Advanced fishing technology helps you locate and catch fresh fish more easily
- Precise boat control and navigation with Minn Kota Ultrex trolling motor with i-Pilot Link
Drawbacks
- The Ranger 620FS is a relatively expensive boat, which may be a drawback for some buyers.
- It is a relatively heavy boat, which may make it more difficult to transport and launch.
Who Should Buy
The Ranger 620FS is a great option for anglers that prefer advanced fishing technology and precise boat control and navigation through the deep lake water waves.
Where to Buy
The Ranger 620FS is available for purchase at authorized Ranger dealerships across the country. You can also find new and used Ranger 620FS boat listings on walleye.com.
3. Crestliner 2250 Authority
The Crestliner 2250 Authority is a great option for those looking for a boat that can handle rough waters while still providing a comfortable and enjoyable fishing experience.
Specifications
The Crestliner 2250 Authority has a length of 22' 11" and a beam of 102". It has a maximum horsepower rating of 300 HP and a fuel capacity of 60 gallons. This fishing boat weighs around 2,350 lbs and can accommodate up to 10 people.
Performance
The Crestliner 2250 Authority is built to handle rough, choppy waters easily. Its all-welded aluminum hull makes all the difference, as it provides durability and stability, even in challenging conditions.
Unlike bass boats which have a shallow V hull, the 2250 Authority is a larger boat and therefore offers the best performance when it comes to busting waves. The boat is also equipped with a deep-V hull design that helps minimize spray and keep you dry while fishing.
What Sets It Apart
What sets the Crestliner 2250 Authority apart from other boats in its class is its conversion bow. It’s specifically designed to allow you to switch the boat from a fishing boat to a ski boat in just seconds. That makes it a versatile option for those looking for the best walleye boat to enjoy a variety of water activities.
Benefits
- An all-welded aluminum hull for durability and stability
- A deep-V hull design that helps to minimize spray and keep you dry.
- Its conversion bow makes it a versatile option for those who enjoy a variety of water activities.
Drawbacks
- Has a weight of around 2,350 lbs, which makes it more difficult to tow than some other boats in its class.
Who Should Buy
The Crestliner 2250 Authority is a great option for those who want a fishing boat that can handle rough waters while still providing a comfortable and enjoyable walleye fishing experience.
Where to Buy
The Crestliner 2250 Authority can be purchased from a variety of boat dealerships and online retailers like Boat Trader.
4. Warrior V2090
If you're looking for a fishing boat that can handle rough waters while still providing ample rod storage space as well as storage for fishing, the Warrior V2090 might be the perfect boat for you.
Specifications
The Warrior V2090 is a tiller boat that can accommodate up to 250XL HP. It has a length of 20' 4", a beam of 96", and a dry weight of 1,950 lbs. The boat is made of aluminum and has a fuel capacity of 55 gallons.
This aluminum boat also comes equipped with a Pro Tiller Steering System that ensures precise control and handling.
Performance
The Warrior V2090 is designed for speed and performance, making it a perfect choice for walleye anglers who want to quickly cover a lot of lake water.
It handles well in both big and shallow waters, and its back trolling capabilities make it ideal for fishing in a variety of conditions.
The boat is also built to handle rough waters, ensuring that you stay safe and dry even in choppy conditions.
What Sets It Apart
One of the standout features of the Warrior V2090 is its extended front casting deck, which provides plenty of space for fishing. The boat also has ample dry storage, making it easy to keep your rods and other gear organized and accessible.
Benefits
- Ample space for fishing with an extended front casting deck
- Plenty of dry storage to keep your gear organized and accessible
- Built to handle rough conditions, ensuring that you stay safe and dry even in wind
Drawbacks
- The Warrior V2090 is a tiller boat, which may not be ideal for everyone
- It has a relatively high dry weight, which may impact fuel efficiency
Who Should Buy
The Warrior V2090 is ideal for back trolling and can accommodate up to four anglers. If you're looking for a walleye boat that is built for speed and performance and can handle a variety of water conditions, this boat is worth considering.
Where to Buy
You can find the Warrior V2090 at authorized dealerships across the country. Check with your local boat dealer to see if they carry this model. You can also visit the Warrior Boats website to find a dealer near you.
5. Starcraft STX 2050
The Starcraft STX 2050 is a top choice for rough water walleye fishing. The boat’s sturdy construction and thoughtful features make it a great option for walleye anglers who want a reliable boat that can handle tough weather conditions.
Specifications
The STX 2050 is 20 feet 2 inches long with a 100-inch beam and a dry weight of 1,650 pounds. It has a fuel capacity of 52 gallons and can accommodate up to 10 passengers. The boat has a maximum power of 250 horsepower.
Performance
The STX 2050 is a fast and responsive boat that can handle rough water with ease. Its deep-V hull design provides a smooth ride, while its high sides and wide beam offer stability and security in choppy conditions. The boat is also equipped with a hydraulic steering system that makes it easy to maneuver great lakes.
What Sets It Apart
What sets the STX 2050 apart from other rough-water walleye boats is its thoughtful amenities. The boat comes with a variety of features that are designed to make walleye fishing more enjoyable and convenient, including a large livewell, plenty of storage space, and a trolling motor mount.
Benefits
- Sturdy construction
- Responsive handling
- Smooth ride in rough water
- Thoughtful amenities for fishing
Drawbacks
- Higher price point compared to some other boats in its class
- Lower passenger capacity than some other boats in its class
Who Should Buy
The STX 2050 is a great option for walleye anglers who prioritize thoughtful amenities and convenience while on walleye fishing.
Where to Buy
You can find the STX 2050 at authorized Starcraft dealerships. Simply check the Starcraft website for a list of dealers near you. You can also buy from online retailers like Walleye.com.