Australia’s diverse aquatic landscapes, from serene rivers to expansive coastal waters, make it a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. This makes it an ideal country for boat hire, so join the boat sharing community and start renting your boat!
For those looking to start a boat rental business or simply offer affordable options for fellow anglers, selecting the right boats is crucial.
Whether you’re catering to seasoned fishermen or families embarking on their first fishing adventure, finding vessels that are both reliable and cost-effective is the key. In this guide, we explore the top 8 affordable fishing boats available in Australia, each offering unique features and benefits that make them ideal candidates for rental use.
From durable designs to versatile functionalities, these boats promise a memorable fishing experience without breaking the bank.
When considering purchasing a boat for use as a rental you need to take in consideration the Domestic Commercial Registration Requirements.
The easiest way to get your vessel registered for commercial purposes is by using Ex 02 – Non-Survey Vessel Under this exemption if your vessel is;
- Less than 12 metres in length
- Operating in Class (D & E) waters
- Does not carry more than 4 Day passengers
- Does NOT have an Inboard Petrol Engine
- Is not a Class 4 Vessel (Hire & Drive) operated overnight
Then you may qualify for this exemption and can apply via the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
When looking at purchasing a boat to use for boat rental purposes you need to take the above requirements into consideration. There is no use in buying a large boat that can seat 10 passengers as you cannot have 10 people on it.
The price range for a day hire is around $500 to $600 per day. The majority of people renting fishing boats will take their mates with them and share the costs, you should take this into consideration.
Anything above this price range divided by 4 passengers could become a bit out of reach.
1. Quintrex 430 Fishabout
The Quintrex 430 Fishabout is a sleek and versatile fishing boat designed for both beginners and experienced anglers. Featuring a stable, open layout and durable aluminum construction, it offers ample space for gear and passengers. Ideal for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, it ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the water.
- Design: Features a wide beam and open layout, ideal for fishing.
- Construction: Built with durable and lightweight aluminum.
- Engine: Typically compatible with a range of outboard engines up to 60 HP.
- Customisation: Offers various options for additional features like live bait tanks and rod holders.
- Popularity: Well-regarded for its stability in both calm and choppy waters.
Price:- $35,754
2. Stacer Proline Angler 449 (Side Console)
The Stacer Proline is a reliable and robust fishing boat, designed for both saltwater and freshwater use. Constructed from durable aluminum, it offers exceptional stability and handling. Available in various sizes, the Proline features ample storage and customizable options, making it a practical choice for anglers of all experience levels. Once again we have chosen the side console based on its ease of use and control.
- Range: Available in different sizes to suit various fishing needs. (3.52m to 4.55m)
- Build: Known for its strong aluminum construction.
- Performance: Offers a smooth ride with excellent handling and stability.
- Versatility: Suitable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
- Features: Roto anchorwell and optional live bait tank
Price:- $30,490
3. Savage 435 Scorpion
The Savage 435 Scorpion is a compact and rugged fishing boat ideal for coastal and inland waters. Its strong aluminum construction ensures durability, while the spacious interior allows for comfortable fishing trips. With excellent maneuverability and stability, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned anglers seeking reliable performance on the water.
- Durability: Tough, high-quality construction intended to withstand harsh fishing conditions.
- Design: Practical and spacious design with an emphasis on comfort.
- Handling: Good stability and easy maneuverability.
- Engine Compatibility: Supports various outboard motor options depending on the specific model. 50HP Max engine size.
- Extras: Commonly fitted with practical fishing features like rod holders and live bait wells.
Price:- $30,250
4. Sea Jay 4.48
The Sea Jay 4.48 Centre Console is a robust fishing boat designed for both inshore and offshore adventures. The new Adrenalin Hull has been specifically designed with the fisherman in mind. Its center console layout provides excellent visibility and maneuverability, while the durable aluminum construction ensures longevity. With ample storage and fishing features, it caters to anglers seeking comfort and performance on the water.
- Compact Size: Ideal for small groups or solo fishing trips.
- Rugged Build: Constructed to handle both calm and mildly rough waters.
- Lightweight: Easy to tow and launch, making it highly mobile.
- Stability: Designed to provide a stable platform for casting.
- Features: Basic but practical, often outfitted with essential fishing gear.
Price:- $41,207
5. Horizon 415 EasyFisher Runabout
The Horizon 415 EasyFisher is a versatile and durable fishing boat designed for various water conditions. Constructed from lightweight aluminum, it offers excellent stability and maneuverability. With ample storage for gear and a user-friendly layout, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced anglers seeking a comfortable fishing experience. With a max Hp rating of 60Hp there is plenty of power to get you around.
- Versatility: Ideal for a variety of fishing environments, including estuaries and rivers.
- Construction: Crafted from durable aluminum, ensuring a lightweight yet robust design.
- Stability: Offers excellent stability on the water, making it suitable for both novice and experienced anglers.
- Performance: Designed for smooth handling and efficiency, allowing for agile maneuverability.
- Storage: Features generous storage options for fishing gear and personal belongings for added convenience during outings.
Price:- $36,700
6. BlueFin 4.5 Runabout
The BlueFin 4.5 Runabout is a compact and reliable fishing boat perfect for day trips. Featuring a robust aluminum construction, it provides excellent stability and handling. With ample storage and a spacious layout, it caters to both novice and seasoned anglers, making it ideal for versatile fishing adventures on various water conditions.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality aluminum, ensuring resilience and longevity in various fishing conditions.
- Compact Size: The 4.5-meter length makes it easy to maneuver and transport, suitable for smaller waterways or coastal trips.
- Spacious Layout: Offers ample space for passengers and gear, providing comfort during fishing outings.
- Stability and Handling: Designed for excellent stability and responsiveness on the water, making it user-friendly for all skill levels.
- Customisable Options: Can be equipped with various features such as storage compartments and fishing accessories to suit individual preferences.
Price:- $29,899
7. Horizon 420 Allrounder
The Horizon 420 Allrounder is a versatile fishing boat designed for various water conditions. Its durable aluminum construction ensures longevity and stability, while its spacious deck provides ample room for gear and passengers. Ideal for both recreational and serious anglers, it combines functionality with a smooth, comfortable ride on the water. Perfect for inland waters and estuaries.
- Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of fishing environments.
- Build: Constructed from quality aluminum, ensuring durability.
- Performance: Offers a balance of speed and control.
- Seating: Flexible seating arrangements to maximize space.
- Fishing Features: Typically comes with fishing necessities like rod holders.
Price:- $32,655
8. Polycraft 410 Challenger
The Polycraft 410 Challenger is a robust and low-maintenance fishing boat made from durable polyethylene, offering excellent stability and buoyancy. Its lightweight design allows for easy towing and launching, making it perfect for various water conditions. Ideal for families and solo anglers, it combines practicality with reliable performance on the water. It is an open vessel with tiller steering. Although I am not a big fan of hiring fibreglass/poly boats this one has been built tough to withstand Australian conditions.
- Material: Built with low-maintenance polyethylene, offering resilience against impacts.
- Stability: Provides excellent buoyancy and stability, even in choppy waters.
- Maintenance: Easy to upkeep with minimal requirements.
- Performance: Handles well across various water conditions.
- Practicality: Ideal for anglers looking for a durable and practical boat without the frills.
Price:- $25,899
Choosing the right fishing boat for rental purposes can significantly enhance the fishing experience for your customers while maintaining a budget-friendly approach.
The boats highlighted in this list each bring their own unique features and advantages, ensuring a range of options to suit different fishing styles and preferences.
By investing in these affordable yet reliable vessels, you can attract a wider audience of fishing enthusiasts eager to explore Australia’s beautiful waterways.
As you make your selection, consider the needs of your clientele and the specific fishing environments they’ll be navigating. With the right fleet, your boat rental business can thrive, creating memorable adventures on the water for all who come aboard. Happy fishing!
Are you ready to start your very own bareboat rental or fishing charter service in Australia?
Visit the MatesBoat™ ‘Owners Page’ to learn how to earn money with your boat and claim your boat expenses on tax!
Read our article ‘How Much Money Could I make Renting My Boat’ to learn more about tax incentives and costs.
*note prices are approximate at time of writing March-2025. Pricing will depend on upgrades, features, motor size and the state purchasing in.
