Flats boats represent the most specialized category in saltwater fishing, designed specifically for navigating the shallow coastal waters where gamefish like bonefish, redfish, permit, and tarpon hunt. These technical fishing platforms prioritize minimal draft, lightweight construction, and stealthy operation over the versatility found in bay boats or center consoles. Where bay boats might draw 12 to 16 inches, dedicated flats boats achieve drafts of 6 to 10 inches, opening access to productive backcountry zones that exclude deeper-draft vessels.
The distinction between flats boats and bay boats matters significantly for anglers targeting specific fishing scenarios. Flats boats excel in protected shallow waters where sight fishing and poling dominate techniques. Their lightweight construction allows a single person to push the boat across skinny flats using a push pole, maintaining silence that prevents spooking fish. Bay boats offer more versatility for running open water, handling chop, and accommodating family activities, but they sacrifice the extreme shallow-water access that defines flats fishing.
This guide examines eight manufacturers whose flats boats represent different approaches to specialized inshore fishing platforms. Some builders focus on absolute minimal draft and ultralight construction for purist anglers who pole pristine backcountry. Others balance shallow-water capability with enough stability and construction to handle occasional rougher conditions. A few offer accessible pricing for anglers entering the flats fishing world, while premium builders create custom-level boats commanding six-figure prices.
Rather than imposing arbitrary rankings, this analysis provides honest assessments based on real-world experience from guides, tournament anglers, and recreational fishermen. Understanding each manufacturer's design philosophy, construction approach, and target customer helps buyers identify which boats align with their specific fishing styles and environments.
Maverick Boats: The Flats Fishing Legend
Maverick Boats has maintained its position as a flats fishing icon through decades of building technical skiffs that satisfy demanding anglers and professional guides. The current lineup includes the 17 HPX-V, 17 HPX-S, and 18 HPX-V, each designed for specific fishing scenarios and angler preferences. Maverick uses advanced composite materials, sophisticated lamination schedules, and meticulous construction techniques that result in boats combining extreme shallow draft with surprising offshore capability.
Draft performance stands as Maverick’s calling card. With two anglers and typical fishing gear aboard, expect to navigate safely in 8 inches of water, with experienced operators pushing into even shallower zones when conditions permit. This capability opens productive fishing areas that remain inaccessible to deeper-draft alternatives. The boats pole effortlessly thanks to lightweight construction and hull designs that minimize water resistance. Guides running Mavericks daily appreciate the efficiency that reduces fatigue during long days of poling clients across expansive flats.
Performance exceeds what many buyers expect from technical flats skiffs. The hulls run efficiently at cruise speeds and achieve respectable top speeds when conditions demand quick repositioning. On calm days, experienced captains confidently run Maverick flats boats into nearshore waters targeting species like kingfish and sailfish, demonstrating versatility that surprises anglers accustomed to viewing flats boats as single-purpose platforms. This offshore capability reflects sophisticated hull designs that balance shallow draft with enough deadrise to handle moderate chop.
Aesthetically, Maverick boats feature sleek lines and refined details that appeal to anglers who appreciate beautiful craftsmanship alongside fishing functionality. Gelcoat work is excellent, hardware installations are clean, and deck layouts reflect input from professional guides who understand what serious flats fishing demands. Storage is thoughtfully integrated, providing secure locations for tackle, push poles, and gear without cluttering fishing space. Livewells are properly sized and positioned for convenient access.
Pricing reflects Maverick’s premium positioning, with new boats typically starting around $65,000 and climbing past $85,000 when equipped with desirable options and appropriate power. This investment buys construction quality, proven performance, and resale values that remain strong even on older models. Maverick’s acquisition of Hewes Boats consolidated two legendary brands under common ownership, though each maintains distinct identities and model lineups serving slightly different customer preferences.
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Hewes Boats: Legendary Performance and Versatility
Hewes Boats has earned its legendary status through generations of building flats boats that balance technical shallow-water capability with enough versatility to handle varied fishing scenarios. The current Redfisher lineup spans from the 16-footer through the 18 to the 21-foot model, offering options for different crew sizes and fishing applications. Like sister brand Maverick, Hewes employs advanced materials and sophisticated construction methods that result in durable, high-performance fishing platforms.
Draft specifications on Hewes boats run slightly deeper than the shallowest competitors, typically requiring 10 inches of water for safe operation with standard loads. This modest draft increase compared to ultra-technical skiffs delivers benefits in rough-water performance and construction durability. Hewes boats handle chop more confidently than lighter, shallower-draft alternatives, maintaining speed and keeping occupants drier when conditions deteriorate. Anglers who fish varied environments including protected flats, choppy bays, and occasional nearshore waters appreciate this versatility.
Storage capacity represents a Hewes strength compared to more minimalist competitors. The boats incorporate well-designed storage compartments that accommodate significant gear without compromising deck space or fishing functionality. This proves valuable for anglers running long distances to fishing grounds or spending multiple days exploring backcountry areas where carrying extra equipment matters. Rod storage, tackle organization, and dry storage for electronics and personal items all receive thoughtful attention.
The Redfisher 21 stands out as the lineup’s largest model, offering space and capability that approach bay boat territory while maintaining flats boat DNA. This size works well for anglers who want one boat serving multiple purposes, from poling pristine flats to running across open bays to fishing nearshore structure. The larger platform provides more stable casting and fighting platforms, comfortable accommodations for three anglers, and fuel capacity supporting extended range.
Construction quality matches industry standards for premium flats boats, with hand-laid composite laminates, quality hardware, and attention to details that ensure longevity. Hewes boats maintain strong resale values, reflecting brand reputation and proven durability. Pricing aligns with other premium manufacturers, with new boats ranging from approximately $60,000 for smaller models to $90,000+ for fully equipped larger versions. The investment delivers proven performance backed by decades of refinement.
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Hell’s Bay Boatworks: Technical Excellence
Hell’s Bay Boatworks has built a devoted following among serious flats anglers who prioritize technical performance and fishing functionality over versatility or comfort features. The lineup focuses on 16 to 18-foot models designed specifically for demanding shallow-water fishing rather than attempting to serve multiple purposes. These boats represent purist approaches to flats skiff design, optimizing every element for stealthy fishing in pristine backcountry environments.
Draft performance competes with the shallowest boats in the category, with 8 to 10 inches representing safe operating depths depending on model and load. The boats pole efficiently thanks to careful attention to hull shapes that minimize water resistance. Professional guides appreciate Hell’s Bay’s reputation for durability under daily commercial use, as these boats withstand the punishment of constant operation in demanding conditions including running aground, contact with oyster bars, and exposure to brutal sun and saltwater.
Rough-water capability exceeds expectations for such technical, shallow-draft platforms. Hell’s Bay boats remain surprisingly dry when crossing choppy bays or navigating through passes with moderate current and wind chop. The hulls provide confidence in conditions that would make ultralight competitors uncomfortable. This capability extends the boats’ useful range, allowing anglers to access distant fishing zones requiring passages through less protected waters.
Aesthetically, Hell’s Bay embraces clean, functional design rather than elaborate styling. The boats look purposeful and workmanlike, with simple deck layouts that prioritize fishing over visual complexity. Hardware is thoughtfully selected and positioned, upholstery is durable rather than luxurious, and overall execution reflects focus on catching fish rather than impressing at the dock. This approach resonates with serious anglers who view boats as fishing tools rather than status symbols.
The company’s history includes interesting connections to other manufacturers on this list. Founder Hal Chittum later sold Hell’s Bay and eventually started Chittum Skiffs after becoming dissatisfied with Hell’s Bay’s direction under new ownership. Despite this drama, Hell’s Bay maintains its position as a respected builder creating excellent fishing platforms. Pricing ranges from approximately $70,000 to $95,000+ depending on model and equipment, positioning Hell’s Bay in the premium segment alongside Maverick and other top-tier builders.
Chittum Skiffs: Guide-Proven Performance
Chittum Skiffs emerged from founder Hal Chittum’s desire to build the ultimate technical flats boats incorporating lessons learned at Hell’s Bay Boatworks. The resulting skiffs have become favorites among professional guides and serious recreational anglers who demand absolute performance in shallow-water fishing scenarios. The lineup includes the Challenger 18, Islamorada 18, and Islamorada 21, each designed for specific applications within the technical flats fishing spectrum.
Extreme lightweight construction sets Chittum Skiffs apart, with bare hulls starting at just 345 pounds before rigging. This featherweight approach delivers multiple benefits including effortless poling, ability to float in mere inches of water, easy trailering, and minimal draft that opens access to the shallowest productive zones. Expect to fish confidently in 6 inches of water, with skilled operators working even shallower when conditions allow. The boats accelerate quickly and achieve impressive top speeds despite modest power requirements.
The Islamorada models represent Chittum’s most celebrated designs, combining minimal draft with surprisingly solid handling characteristics. The hulls feel stable at rest and while drifting, providing comfortable casting platforms for working hooked fish. Deck layouts are intelligently designed with input from guides who understand exactly what serious flats fishing demands. Storage is adequate without being excessive, keeping weight minimal while accommodating essential gear.
Construction quality reflects Chittum’s background in building premium skiffs and dissatisfaction with compromises he perceived at Hell’s Bay under new management. The boats employ the latest composite materials and sophisticated lamination techniques, producing strength without unnecessary weight. Quality control is meticulous, with each boat receiving individual attention during construction. Gelcoat work is excellent, hardware installations are clean, and overall fit and finish compete with custom builders.
Chittum Skiffs maintain strong followings in specific markets, particularly Florida and Texas, where technical flats fishing demands shallow-draft capability. The company’s limited production volumes and guide-focused marketing create somewhat exclusive reputations that appeal to serious anglers. Pricing reflects the custom-level construction and premium positioning, with new boats typically ranging from $75,000 to over $100,000 when fully equipped. The investment buys some of the lightest, most technicalflats skiffs available.
Beavertail Skiffs: Distinctive Style and Performance
Beavertail Skiffs has carved out a distinctive identity in the flats boat market through bold aesthetic choices and solid performance. The boats feature striking color schemes and modern styling that turn heads at boat ramps and marinas. Where many competitors embrace conservative appearances, Beavertail celebrates visual impact with dramatic gelcoat patterns and contemporary lines. The company’s website prominently features “Color Inspiration” sections, signaling the brand’s embrace of aesthetics alongside fishing functionality.
Beyond good looks, Beavertail builds legitimate fishing machines capable of competing with more conservatively styled competitors. Composite construction keeps weight minimal, delivering draft performance in the 6 to 8-inch range depending on model and load. The boats pole efficiently and run well at cruise speeds. Rough-water capability is adequate for typical flats boat applications, though these remain technical shallow-water platforms rather than rough-water performers.
Upholstery and interior details reflect more attention to finish quality than many competitors provide. Stitching is precise, materials are quality marine-grade products, and overall execution suggests care during construction. These details appeal to buyers who want fishing performance without settling for spartan interiors. Storage solutions are thoughtfully integrated, providing secure locations for gear without excessive compartments that add weight and complexity.
The boats attract younger anglers and those who appreciate modern styling over traditional flats boat aesthetics. This positioning creates somewhat polarized reactions, with some anglers loving the bold appearance while traditionalists prefer more subdued designs. Performance and fishing functionality don’t suffer from the styling choices, making Beavertail a viable option for serious fishing alongside their visual appeal.
Pricing falls in the premium segment, with new Beavertail skiffs typically starting around $65,000 and climbing past $85,000 when properly equipped. This positions the boats competitively with other quality builders while potentially attracting buyers who might otherwise dismiss flats boats as boring or old-fashioned. The distinctive styling also aids resale, as Beavertail boats stand out in used boat listings and attract attention from buyers seeking alternatives to conventional designs.
Sterling and Shearwater: Aesthetic Excellence
Sterling and Shearwater operate under common ownership, with Sterling building traditional flats boats from 17 to 22 feet while Shearwater creates hybrid platforms blending flats boat and bay boat characteristics. Both brands emphasize beautiful design and quality construction, earning reputations for building some of the most aesthetically pleasing boats in their respective categories. The Sterling 220XS in particular generates admiration for its flowing lines and elegant proportions.
Sterling flats boats deliver performance matching their beautiful exteriors. The hulls run efficiently, pole well, and provide stable fishing platforms. Draft performance sits in the moderate range for flats boats, typically requiring 8 to 10 inches of water for safe operation. This represents a reasonable compromise for buyers wanting beautiful boats without sacrificing too much shallow-water capability. Rough-water handling is adequate for typical flats fishing scenarios.
Storage capacity represents a Sterling strength, with well-designed compartments accommodating significant gear without cluttering deck space. The boats work well for anglers running long distances or spending multiple days exploring remote fishing areas. Rod storage is generous, dry storage protects electronics and personal items, and livewells are properly sized for typical flats fishing applications.
The Shearwater 22 hybrid deserves specific mention as a crossover design attempting to bridge flats boat and bay boat capabilities. This 22-footer maintains modest draft while offering more versatility than pure flats boats provide. The hybrid approach appeals to anglers wanting one boat serving multiple purposes, from poling skinny flats to running across open bays to fishing nearshore structure. Success depends on whether buyers accept compromises in both directions or prefer specialized boats optimized for specific applications.
Construction quality throughout both brands reflects attention to detail and use of quality materials. Gelcoat work is excellent, hardware is thoughtfully selected and precisely installed, and overall fit and finish compete with premium competitors. Sterling and Shearwater boats maintain strong resale values in markets where their aesthetic appeal resonates with buyers. Pricing ranges from approximately $70,000 for smaller Sterling models to well over $100,000 for larger, fully equipped examples.
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East Cape Skiffs: Technical Innovation
East Cape Skiffs has gained a rapidly growing following among serious inshore anglers through technical innovations and impressive performance claims. The company advertises draft capabilities as shallow as 4 inches, which would represent industry-leading performance if achieved in real-world fishing scenarios with typical loads. These extreme shallow-water capabilities appeal to anglers fishing pristine backcountry areas where every inch of draft matters for accessing productive zones.
Design aesthetics embrace simplicity and clean functionality rather than elaborate styling. The boats look purposeful and uncluttered, with deck layouts prioritizing fishing efficiency over visual complexity. This minimalist approach reduces weight, simplifies maintenance, and focuses attention on catching fish rather than managing complicated systems. Hardware selections favor proven components that work reliably rather than the latest gadgets.
Performance reports from owners consistently praise solid handling characteristics and efficient running surfaces. The boats accelerate quickly, cruise efficiently, and achieve good top speeds for their size and power. Poling is effortless thanks to lightweight construction and hull shapes minimizing water resistance. At rest and while drifting, the boats provide stable platforms for casting and fighting fish.
East Cape’s relatively recent emergence means the brand lacks the decades-long track records of established manufacturers like Maverick or Hewes. This creates uncertainty about long-term durability and how boats perform after years of hard use. However, early adopters report positive experiences, and the company’s growing popularity suggests satisfied customers spreading word-of-mouth recommendations. Professional guides have begun adopting East Cape skiffs, providing real-world validation of fishing performance.
Pricing appears competitive with other technical flats boats, though specific numbers vary based on model selection, power choices, and option packages. Buyers considering East Cape should thoroughly research the brand, speak with current owners, and ideally arrange test drives to verify performance claims align with real-world experiences. The combination of extreme shallow draft, lightweight construction, and solid handling makes East Cape an intriguing option for serious flats anglers.
Mako Boats: Accessible Entry Point
Mako represents a different approach to flats boats compared to the premium manufacturers dominating most of this list. The company builds more accessible boats targeting anglers entering flats fishing or those who prioritize value over ultimate performance. The Mako 18 LTS delivers legitimate flats fishing capability at price points starting around $40,000 to $45,000, dramatically undercutting premium competitors charging double or triple that amount.
This accessibility comes with compromises that serious anglers should understand before purchase. Draft performance is the most significant limitation, requiring approximately 12 inches of water for safe operation. This deeper draft excludes the shallowest, most pristine flats zones where gamefish often congregate. Anglers fishing areas with slightly deeper water or those who aren’t targeting the most technical flats scenarios may find the draft acceptable. However, buyers seeking true shallow-water capability should consider boats from manufacturers offering 6 to 8-inch drafts.
Construction quality and materials reflect the lower price point without being inadequate. The boats are production-built using conventional techniques and readily available materials rather than exotic composites or sophisticated lamination schedules. This approach controls costs and creates boats that are perfectly serviceable for recreational fishing, though they lack the refinement and durability of premium alternatives. Expect heavier weight than ultralight competitors, more pedestrian performance, and simpler overall execution.
The value proposition makes sense for specific buyer profiles. First-time flats boat buyers can enter the category without massive financial commitments, learning what they want from future boats before investing in premium models. Anglers who fish occasionally rather than obsessively may find Mako’s capabilities adequate for their limited use. Buyers on strict budgets gain flats fishing access that would otherwise remain unaffordable.
However, serious anglers who fish frequently, demand maximum performance, or guide professionally should invest in boats from manufacturers prioritizing technical excellence over affordability. The capabilities gaps between Mako and premium competitors matter significantly in real-world fishing scenarios. Understanding which compromises you’re accepting helps set appropriate expectations and prevents disappointment when the boat can’t access zones competitors navigate easily.
Understanding Flats Boat Design and Selection
Choosing among these manufacturers requires an honest assessment of your fishing style, typical environments, and priorities regarding shallow-water capability versus versatility. Anglers who fish pristine backcountry flats where draft measurements of inches determine access should prioritize the lightest, shallowest-draft boats from builders like Chittum, East Cape, or Maverick. These technical platforms excel in scenarios where their specialized capabilities matter most.
Buyers who fish varied environments such as shallow flats, moderate-depth bays, and occasional nearshore waters benefit from slightly less extreme designs offering better versatility. Hewes boats, Sterling platforms, and Hell’s Bay models balance shallow-water access with enough capability to handle less protected conditions. This middle ground approach creates single boats serving multiple purposes rather than requiring separate boats for different fishing scenarios.
Budget obviously influences decisions, but focusing solely on purchase price overlooks total ownership costs and fishing opportunity costs. A $40,000 Mako that can’t access productive shallow zones costs more in missed fishing opportunities than a $75,000 Maverick opening premium fisheries. Conversely, buyers who don’t actually fish the shallowest waters waste money on extreme capabilities they’ll never use. Match boat capabilities to realistic fishing patterns rather than theoretical best-case scenarios or worst-case limitations.
Geographic location matters significantly in flats boat selection. The pristine, extremely shallow flats of the Bahamas or Florida Keys demand different capabilities than the deeper grass flats of Texas or Louisiana. Local fishing styles, typical species targeted, and environmental conditions all factor into which manufacturers and models make most sense. Research what boats local guides and successful anglers use, as their choices reflect real-world effectiveness in your specific fishing environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shallowest draft flats boat?
East Cape Skiffs advertises draft capabilities as shallow as 4 inches, representing the shallowest advertised specifications in the industry. However, real-world draft depends heavily on total load, which include anglers, fuel, gear, and equipment. Most premium flats boats like Chittum Skiffs, Maverick, and Beavertail achieve 6 to 8-inch drafts with typical loads. These measurements allow access to extremely shallow zones where gamefish hunt. Draft specifications matter significantly in flats fishing, as even small differences determine which areas remain accessible during different tide stages.
How much does a flats boat cost?
Flats boat prices range from approximately $40,000 for entry-level production boats like Mako to well over $100,000 for fully equipped premium models from builders like Chittum Skiffs, Hell’s Bay, or Sterling. Most quality flats boats from established manufacturers fall in the $65,000 to $90,000 range when properly equipped with appropriate power and essential options. Used flats boats offer more accessible entry points, with older models from quality builders available in the $30,000 to $60,000 range, depending on age, condition, and equipment. Factor ongoing costs – maintenance, storage, insurance, and fuel when budgeting for flats boat ownership.
What’s the difference between flats boats and bay boats?
Flats boats prioritize extreme shallow draft, lightweight construction, and stealthy operation for technical sight fishing in protected waters. They typically draw 6 to 10 inches and excel at poling across skinny flats. Bay boats emphasize versatility, with deeper drafts of 12 to 16 inches allowing better rough-water performance and accommodation of family activities alongside fishing. Bay boats typically measure 19 to 26 feet compared to flats boats’ 15 to 22-foot range. Choose flats boats for specialized shallow-water fishing or bay boats for versatile platforms serving multiple purposes.
Can flats boats go offshore?
Some premium flats boats handle nearshore waters surprisingly well on calm days, allowing anglers to target species like kingfish or sailfish within a few miles of shore. However, flats boats are designed for protected shallow waters rather than offshore fishing. They lack the fuel capacity, rough-water capability, and safety features that true offshore boats provide. Running flats boats offshore should only be attempted by experienced captains in favorable conditions with conservative weather windows. Most flats fishing occurs in protected bays, sounds, and backcountry areas where these specialized boats excel.
How fast do flats boats go?
Top speeds for flats boats typically range from 35 to 50+ mph depending on hull design, weight, and power. Lighter boats with efficient hulls and adequate power achieve the highest speeds, while heavier or more conservatively powered models run slower. However, top speed matters less in flats fishing than efficient cruise speeds, shallow draft, and poling characteristics. Most flats fishing involves idling, drifting, or poling rather than running at maximum velocity. Choose boats based on shallow-water capability and fishing functionality rather than prioritizing maximum speed.
What horsepower do you need for a flats boat?
Most flats boats in the 17 to 18-foot range perform well with 60 to 90 hp outboards, while larger 20 to 22-foot models typically use 90 to 115 hp. Lighter boats require less power for adequate performance, while heavier construction demands more horsepower. Manufacturer recommendations provide starting points, but consider your typical load, desired performance, and budget when selecting power. Modern four-stroke outboards deliver excellent fuel efficiency and reliability. Avoid underpowering, as inadequate horsepower creates safety issues and poor performance, but also avoid excessive power that adds weight and cost without meaningful benefits.
Are flats boats stable?
Premium flats boats provide surprisingly stable platforms for their narrow beams and lightweight construction. Modern hull designs incorporate features improving stability at rest and while drifting. However, flats boats feel less stable than wider bay boats or center consoles, particularly for passengers unaccustomed to narrow technical skiffs. The stability proves adequate for experienced anglers casting and fighting fish but may feel tippy to beginners. Heavier anglers or those with balance concerns should test boats thoroughly before purchase, as stability varies between models and manufacturers.
Do I need a poling platform on a flats boat?
Poling platforms dramatically improve sight fishing effectiveness by elevating the operator above water surface for better visibility. Most serious flats anglers consider poling platforms essential equipment rather than optional accessories. The elevated position allows spotting fish and structure invisible from deck level, directly improving fishing success. However, poling platforms add weight, cost, and windage, affecting performance. Anglers who primarily use electric trolling motors or don’t sight fish may skip poling platforms. For traditional flats fishing techniques, budget for quality poling platforms as critical equipment.
Conclusion
The flats boat market offers exceptional variety serving anglers from budget-conscious beginners through demanding professionals requiring ultimate performance. Each manufacturer brings distinct strengths. Maverick and Hewes deliver legendary proven performance, Chittum and East Cape push technical boundaries, Hell’s Bay provides guide-proven durability, while Beavertail and Sterling combine performance with striking aesthetics. Mako creates accessible entry points for anglers exploring flats fishing without premium investments.
For buyers ready to explore options, researching flats boats for sale through Boatzon provides access to inventory from multiple manufacturers. The platform’s integrated approach includes boat financing options that simplify purchase processes and delivery coordination. Whether targeting your first flats boat or upgrading from a previous model, these eight manufacturers represent the category’s strongest options for specialized shallow-water fishing in 2025.
Disclaimer: Pricing, specifications, and model availability mentioned in this article reflect information current as of publication and may change without notice. Buyers should verify details directly with manufacturers or authorized dealers before making purchase decisions. Draft specifications vary based on load, trim, and operating conditions. Boatzon is not affiliated with the manufacturers discussed and provides this information for educational purposes.
