Porta boat

[jkilroy]

Anyone on the forum own one of these, porta boat? If so can you stand up and fly cast from one of these? Advantages/disadvantages? I need a boat that I can take camping, this looks like a pretty good one. Fly casting from my kayak just is not working, it kills my back and it is a royal pain.

[Richard Komar]

Hello Jkilroy,

I own a Porta-Bote. When you get a chance, do take a few minutes and read my product review here on FAOL.

Yes, I stand up in it all the time to flycast. Not only is it good to get up and stretch the old back muscles, it gives you a good view of the water, like flats fishing.

When you stand in a Bote, you actually stand on one side of the V-hull. The flexible polystyrene hull (which is thicker than an aluminum hull) creates a suction effect on the water surface, stabilizing the Bote. So you never have to do a balancing act like you do in a rigid V-hull.

Like you, I tried a kayak and for the same reasons, it wasn't for me.

PM me if you want to chat about the Bote!

Cheers,
Richard
Plano TX, Very Warmwater Flyfishing Country

[fpcba]

I have owned a porta bote for several years. I have found it useful for a variety of different types of water. It is very stable and I can stand and cast in it unless the water is really choppy. The only downside is that it takes more time to set up than I anticipated when I bought it (about 20 minutes). I own the 12 foot version with a 5 hp motor. It is easy to launch from a ramp or road side but a hassle if I have to cross sand by myself. It is less convenient than a canoe or kayak but much more versatile. I can go more places and faster. I have been caught out in some pretty rough weather and can attest to the stability, If you want quick in and out of the water, a canoe or kayak would be the best choice. If you want a casting platform you can either row or use under power, the porta bote is great.