How to Rig a Small Fishing Boat

The definition of “small” comes into play here. To most people we will be looking at 10 – 14 feet boats and usually the will be the aluminum type most fishermen have. Rigging these boats only requires that you make it livable for whoever is fishing, the gear going with you on the lake and how long you will be out fishing. Here are a few ideas that may help you.

• Using metal pipe or PVC (best due to weight and will not rust) run nylon rope thru and attach your anchor. If possible, to save time and a lot of work, get a spool with a crank attached for this purpose.


• Attach some fishing rod holders onto the front of the boat. Keep the front of the boat open and free from clutter as this will be primarily where you will be fishing. You can always put a few holders in the rear as well for storage and in case you want to do some troll fishing.


• Put some bench seats that have storage compartments in them in the boat. If they do not come with multiple compartments, make some.


• Put your downrigger just behind your fishing rod holders in the front if you are going to have one. This will keep it out of the way and it will still be accessible.


• Place your fish and depth finders near the downrigger or perhaps on the other side of the boat. However, if you plan on catching any larger fish, you may want to keep one side open for bringing them into the boat .


• Mounting your trolling motor is a personal choice on location. Mount in the bow if you plan on driving and having others fish. In this case, you mount it in the bow and run wires to the rear for driving. If you are fishing as well, the normal mount is in the stern of the boat.