Ten cheap ways to get yourself on the water
 

Introduction: Do boaters always catch more fish than shore anglers? Not always, but they do have a distinct advantage when it comes to being able to move around to locate the fish. In addition to mobility, anglers on the water are able to employ a wider array of lures and techniques. I would also argue the added element of fishing from the water adds to the overall experience itself, and for me there is nothing more therapeutic than a day spent "on" the water. So what stops anglers from boating? Usually the cost. Owning a boat can be expensive, and not everyone wants to store, maintain, or service a boat. But getting on the water doesn't have to be a costly endeavor, and we explore ten different ways to get on the water, for less than you might expect.   

Water Skeeter Day Tripper Pontoon Float: Float tubes actually have the advantage of getting into waters that bigger craft can't access. For those looking for the opposite of a large boat Water Skeeter's Day Tripper is the ultimate in portability. This combination tube/pontoon float only weighs seventeen pounds, yet is able to support 350lbs of weight. The pontoons allow the float to ride higher than a normal float tube, and anglers have two 420 denier storage compartments for tackle. The Pontoons have .5mm PVC bladder with Boston valve protected by a durable 420 denier outer cover that's triple-stitched for added strength. The top section has a head rest and attaches to the pontoons with adjustable straps. When its time to go the entire pontoon packs into an included 420 denier backpack with adjustable shoulder straps. This option only costs $149.99 and allows anglers to get on the water quickly.   

Outcast Prowler Float Tube: The Outcast Prowler is the SUV of float tubes and offers anglers a heavy duty 600 denier PVC construction. Designed for all-day fishing, the Prowler is equipped with a 54 ounce hydration bladder and a full-length inflatable floor, helping make this among the driest tubes for both anglers and equipment. The U shaped tube is more hydrodynamic and is designed for improved overall ergonomics. Outcast is known for quality, and they back this tube with a five year warranty. The Prowler will set you back $450.00, and is a good tube for serious trout and bass anglers.

Outcast Fish Cat Streamer XL Pontoon Boat: I'm a big fan of inflatable pontoon boats. These versatile boats are not just for  trout anglers anymore, and more and more bass anglers are starting to make use of these boats. Anglers can carry plenty of gear, and many even customize the boat since it has a rigid aluminum frame. The Outcast Fish Cat Streamer is an extremely affordable boat and can be maneuvered with either fins or the 6 foot aluminum oars. This boat can be set up relatively quickly (not as quick as a float tube but still pretty quick) and is also easy to pack into a car. The Fish Cat retails for only 379 dollars and is a great way to get to fishing on your local river or lake.

Water Skeeter Fish Guide Pontoon Boat: Though not recommended as your first pontoon boat, if you do find that you like fishing from a pontoon and would like to step up to a premium boat here's the one you want. The Water Skeeter Fish Guide is a much more rugged and feature rich pontoon. Built with PVC-coated 1200 Denier pontoons and a heavy-duty powder-coated aluminum frame the Water Skeeter's can handle much rougher water, but when you get into motionless water you are actually able to stand up on the standing platform and cast. This is a great boat for fly fishermen but bass anglers will also like the raised storage deck, aluminum rod holder and multi purpose storage bag. Best of all if you don't want to row the Fish Guide has an aluminum plate motor mount capable of holding a trolling motor. The Fish Guide retails for 899 dollars.