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| 7 Best Fishing Boats for Lakes That Offer Smooth Rides |
When it comes to lake fishing, selecting the right vessel can make or break your entire experience. A smooth-riding fishing boat is essential for comfort, stability, and ultimate angling success. Whether you're trolling for bass in early morning stillness or cruising to a secluded cove for trout, the quality of your boat directly impacts performance and enjoyment. We’ve carefully reviewed the top models based on ride smoothness, build quality, fishing-specific features, and versatility. Below is our expert-curated guide to the 7 best fishing boats for lakes that ensure unmatched comfort and seamless rides across calm and choppy waters alike.
1. Lund 1875 Crossover XS – Best All-Around Lake Fishing Boat
The Lund 1875 Crossover XS is a standout in the multi-species aluminum fishing boat category, known for its reliability, durability, and unmatched performance on freshwater lakes.
Key Highlights:
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Length: 18'10"
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Beam: 95"
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Engine: Up to 200 HP
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Hull Type: IPS Hull (Integrated Power Strake)
Why It Rides Smooth:
Its IPS hull design slices through choppy lake waters, offering superior tracking and reduced spray. The wide beam enhances stability, especially when casting or reeling in active catches.
Fishing Features:
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10-tube center rod storage
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Dual livewells (bow and aft)
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Massive in-floor storage compartments
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Bow cushions convert to casting deck
Ideal For:
Families and anglers seeking a hybrid between fishing and recreation, without compromising ride quality or features.
2. Crestliner 1750 Fish Hawk – Best Aluminum V-Hull Fishing Boat
Engineered for serious anglers, the Crestliner 1750 Fish Hawk is built with strength, agility, and a V-hull that guarantees a smooth glide across freshwater lakes.
Key Highlights:
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Length: 17'7"
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Beam: 87"
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Max HP: 115
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Hull Construction: All-welded aluminum
Ride Performance:
The Deep-V hull offers impeccable wave-cutting ability, especially on windy lakes. It feels grounded yet glides effortlessly—minimizing bounce and maximizing control.
Fishing Features:
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15-gallon aerated livewell
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7’ lockable rod storage
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Console and side console options
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Fishfinder and trolling motor pre-wiring
Ideal For:
Those looking for a rugged, tournament-ready aluminum fishing boat with smooth performance and premium fishability.
3. Tracker Pro Team 195 TXW – Best for Smooth Shallow Lake Rides
The Tracker Pro Team 195 TXW is a bass-style fishing boat known for its low-profile design and exceptionally smooth ride in shallow and mid-depth lakes.
Key Highlights:
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Length: 18'7"
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Beam: 98"
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Max HP: 150
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Hull Material: All-welded aluminum with Revolution hull
Smoothness Factor:
Its Revolution hull ensures a stable, dry ride even when maneuvering tight spaces or accelerating across windswept water. Excellent for lakes with shallow flats or coves.
Fishing Features:
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Dual 8’ rod lockers
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Aerated livewell with timer
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Built-in Lowrance® fishfinder
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Trolling motor with foot control
Ideal For:
Anglers targeting bass, crappie, and panfish in shallow lakes that require quiet approach and steady footing.
4. Nitro Z19 – Best Performance Fishing Boat for Lakes
When speed, handling, and fishability are critical, the Nitro Z19 is a front-runner. Its high-performance design and attention to detail offer luxury and ride quality typically found in tournament boats.
Key Highlights:
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Length: 19'4"
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Beam: 94"
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Max HP: 200
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Construction: Composite stringers, fiberglass hull
Ride Excellence:
The Rapid Planing System™ hull ensures the boat planes instantly, even with full load. It absorbs shock well and delivers a quiet, firm, and smooth ride through sudden waves or lake chop.
Fishing Features:
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Large bow deck with tool and bait storage
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Integrated push-button start console
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Twin 8’ rod lockers
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34-gallon Guardian™ livewell with adjustable timer
Ideal For:
Competent anglers wanting a fast, tournament-grade lake fishing machine that balances speed and stability.
5. Ranger Z518 – Best Fiberglass Fishing Boat for Lakes
The Ranger Z518 offers an elite fiberglass hull design that provides a buttery-smooth ride on glassy and rough lake surfaces alike. It's ideal for those who value traditional craftsmanship with a modern edge.
Key Highlights:
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Length: 18'10"
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Beam: 97"
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Max HP: 200
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Hull Construction: Fiberglass with foam-filled interior
Performance Benefits:
The fiberglass design creates weight balance and shock absorption, making every trip smooth and quiet. Ideal for lakes that experience unexpected turbulence or multiple wake zones.
Fishing Features:
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Custom-fitted tackle storage system
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Digital gauge cluster
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Integrated rod tubes with organizers
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28-gallon divided livewell
Ideal For:
Discerning anglers who want luxury-level fishing performance with glass-like ride comfort.
6. Alumacraft Competitor 185 – Best Multi-Species Fishing Boat for Lakes
This versatile aluminum boat is a multi-species angler’s dream. The Alumacraft Competitor 185 thrives in various lake environments, offering exceptional smoothness and control.
Key Highlights:
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Length: 18'6"
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Beam: 96"
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Max HP: 175
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Hull Type: 2XB Hull (dual plating on the bow)
Smooth Ride Insights:
Its 2XB hull system doubles the aluminum plating at the bow, minimizing impact and creating a smoother glide through choppy waters. The helm is centered to optimize weight distribution for balance.
Fishing Features:
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44” bow livewell with timer and light
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10+ rod capacity storage
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Full windshield for wind protection
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Spacious casting platforms
Ideal For:
Anglers switching between walleye, northern pike, and bass, who demand ride stability and fishing versatility.
7. Lowe FM 1800 WT – Best Family-Friendly Fishing Boat for Lakes
The Lowe FM 1800 WT (Walkthrough) is crafted with anglers and families in mind, combining premium comfort and exceptional ride quality on freshwater lakes.
Key Highlights:
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Length: 17'10"
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Beam: 95"
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Max HP: 150
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Hull Design: Reverse chine, V-hull
Ride Quality:
The reverse chine design deflects spray away while enhancing stability. Its walkthrough windshield shields passengers from wind, creating a pleasant, smooth experience in changing lake conditions.
Fishing Features:
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Forward and rear aerated livewells
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Dual casting platforms
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Custom swivel chairs
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Multiple rod lockers and tackle trays
Ideal For:
Weekend fishers and families seeking a smooth-riding, comfortable lake boat with all the fishing essentials.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Fishing Boat for Lakes
Selecting the ideal fishing boat for lakes isn’t just about horsepower or looks—it’s about achieving a perfect balance of ride comfort, fishability, and personal use needs. Here's what we consider non-negotiable criteria:
Hull Design Matters
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V-hulls handle waves better and provide smoother rides.
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Flat-bottom or Mod-V hulls are better for calm, shallow waters but can be bumpier in choppy lakes.
Material Construction
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Aluminum boats are lightweight, durable, and excellent for trailering.
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Fiberglass boats offer better sound insulation and smoother rides but are heavier.
Livewell and Storage Capacity
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Essential for keeping your catch fresh and gear organized.
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Look for aerated, timer-equipped livewells and lockable rod lockers.
Seating and Console Layout
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A center or dual-console offers balance and weather protection.
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Swivel fishing chairs and modular layouts enhance casting comfort.
Engine Power
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Choose based on lake size, average wave height, and the number of passengers.
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More horsepower generally equals faster planing and smoother rides at cruising speeds.
Smooth Rides, Big Catches
Fishing on a lake should be a relaxing, productive, and smooth experience. Each boat on this list excels in ride quality, design precision, and fishing-focused features, giving you an advantage no matter the species or lake condition. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a family looking to make weekend memories, the right boat can elevate every moment on the water.
Explore these top choices and let your next lake fishing adventure be defined by smooth rides, smart storage, and unmatched reliability.
