We noted this in a previous article, sport fishermen prefer semi-rigid boats with hard hulls. But with an ever-growing range of products on offer, how do you choose the right one? What parameters should be taken into account? How should it be fitted out?
Let's take a look together.
The first thing to do is to define your specifications:
- What size and what use?
- New or used?
- Storage location?
- After-sales and resale
- Price
Size:
Most RIBs used by recreational anglers are between 5 m and 7 m long.
The choice of length obviously depends on the price, but also on the fishing program (inshore or offshore) and the number of people on board.
Generally speaking, RIBs under 5.50 m are ideal for two people. Above 5.50 m, you can fish with up to three people.
The choice of size also depends on the vehicle you will be towing. It's important to get the right information to make sure you're up to the job.
Here you'll find an article on the regulations for towing your trailer.
New or used?
There are two opposing views here:
- The first is to have a new boat and renew it regularly so as not to lose too much money on it.
- The second is to invest in a used boat on which you will be dependent on the previous owner's layout and maintenance.
A new boat can be 100% customized, while a second-hand boat makes you dependent on the tastes of the previous owner. As far as financing is concerned, only new boats are eligible for LOA, which nevertheless offers many advantages.
How do you use it?
Your choice of RIB will depend on your program of activities and the sailing area (coastal or offshore).
Onboard layout will also depend on your activity. It's different whether you're a sport fisherman or an underwater hunter.
Finally, depending on your sailing area and the amount of sunshine, the black color of the deck and/or floats may be difficult to bear in summer.
Furnishings on board :
This is obviously a personal choice, but should be thought through in advance to optimize space on board. In most cases, it will consist of a console, a bolster or jockey seats. Some options, such as an integrated livewell or anchor locker, save space on deck.
Materials for floats
The materials used to manufacture the floats are :
- PVC
- Hypalon neoprene
The former equips the vast majority of RIBs, and is less expensive than hypalon neoprene, but also less robust.
Hypalon is more resistant over time to UV rays and exposure to the moon.
This choice should be made according to the place where your boat will be stored, as well as your cruising area.
Read a Bateaux.com article on this subject.
After-sales service and ease of resale:
When buying a boat, you need to consider both of these factors.
The brand's local network is essential to ensure the best possible after-sales service and maintenance.
The question of resale should be considered from the outset. Some brands are much more sought-after than others.
Price:
All the criteria mentioned here influence the price. Two identical RIBs, but with PVC or hypalon floats, will have a significant price difference. The layout of the boat also has an impact, depending on the options chosen.
To conclude:
Choosing your RIB is a matter of compromise. It's important to think carefully about the layout of the deck and how people will be able to move around on board. There are some good recent opportunities on the market, but you have to be quick to seize them.
Others prefer to go for a new boat, taking advantage of the benefits of LOA financing. These people are sure to get the boat that perfectly meets their expectations.
