This is one of the questions that a future buyer of a boat dedicated to sea fishing asks himself. "Will it be a jockey seat or a bolster?"
Some brands offer you ready-made packages with a defined and fixed bridge configuration. It is well known that sea anglers are picky and appreciate having a choice, especially when it comes to their future frames. So how do you choose? What are the advantages and disadvantages of the 2 possibilities?
The bolsters
Also known as Leaning Post, they are present on the majority of boats, whether hard hulls or rigid inflatable boats. These, mounted on the inserts or directly on deck, offer storage space that is generally well appreciated by the crew.
2 main types are proposed:
- the fibre bolsters, covered with gelcoat will offer you maximum storage with a trunk that goes all the way to the deck. On the smaller units, they can accommodate the battery tray or nurse. Accessories such as rod holders can be attached using a bolt and nut system. These models are mainly used on boats with a mixed sailing programme between fishing and family
- The second type is the stainless steel model. More expensive, they require the intervention of a professional welder and then a thermo-lacquering for a quality realization. The reference brands are Inox du Bocage or more recently Amiaud with its new model presented in 2020.
This model is essentially present on boats dedicated to sport fishing. There is little storage space, often a simple trunk under the seat. The space under the bolster can accommodate a livewell or cooler. Finally, the rod holders must have a fixing system called "balcony fixing" as shown in the picture below.
As far as sailing comfort is concerned, it is obvious that it is not at the height of a jockey seat but sufficient for coastal or offshore sailing if sea conditions are correct. The quality of the seating is not to be neglected in order to have something durable over time and resistant to the elements.
To sum up, whether they are made of stainless steel or fibre, the sailing comfort is correct. They have a larger footprint on deck than a jockey seat but offer an interesting storage volume. The fixing of the cane doors is easy.
Advantages :
- Available Storage
- Awards
- Wide choice
- Easy to attach accessories
Disadvantages:
- Place on the bridge
- Less comfort
The jockey seats
More and more present on semi-rigid fishing boats, these seats offer an exceptional seating and comfort.
The so-called classic models, such as those below, are fixed with a seat and a backrest sometimes decorated with wings, i.e. a frame to support your back.
There is a small storage space under the seat or through a side access hatch.
The top-of-the-range jockey seats are the suspended ones, meaning that the shocks during navigation are damped by a spring or a jack, adjustable according to your weight.
On these models there is no possible storage. If you wish to have an external livewell, it will have to be set back and will take up space on deck. In any case, the sailing comfort is well above that of the bolsters. Being able to squeeze the seat between your thighs during agitated transits considerably reduces the risk of being ejected due to a wave received from the side.
The price is also higher. Count between 650 and 1100 euros for the standard model and more than 2000 euros for the suspended model. Finally, the fixing of the rod holders can be complicated. You will have to find another hanger to fix them.
Advantages :
- Confort
- Aesthetics
- Safety in rough seas
- Space saving on board
Disadvantages:
- Little storage space
- Awards
- Difficulty attaching accessories to it
Which one to choose?
It's all about compromise. Depending on your programme, you will opt for jockey seats or a bolster.
A boat with a mixed family/fishing program will preferably be equipped with a fiber bolster with storage.
For boats exclusively dedicated to fishing, a stainless steel bolster or jockey seats are suitable.
Finally, English hull type boats, where performance is sought after, especially in rough conditions, jockey seats and suspended models are widely recommended.
