For many anglers, finding the right fishing boat on a tight budget can seem like an impossible task. However, with some research and an open mind, it is absolutely possible to land a quality watercraft for under $2000. In this article, we will examine the top 5 best new aluminum boat brands in 2024 that deliver performance, features and reliability without breaking the bank.
As the largest boat mentioned at 14ft, it can comfortably carry 3 people, making it very versatile for fishing multiple anglers or carrying gear/supplies. As an aluminum johnboat, it will withstand rough use better than plastic or inflatable options, holding up over the long term.Its wider beam and flat bottom make it a steadier platform for casting, reeling in fish, or standing/moving around compared to narrower pontoon or rowing-style boats.
With a 15hp rating, motor options are varied for towing tubes, skiing, or achieving better top speeds than smaller boats. It can also mount diverse gear like electronics or trolling motors. For the price, features, and durable construction, it offers the best combination of overall performance and functionality for the budget-conscious angler. As a well-known one of the best aluminum boat brands 2024, parts and support will be widely available compared to less common brands if any issues do arise.
4- Newport Rib
Inflatable construction makes it resilient to dings/minor punctures from rocks/debris compared to thinner plastic or aluminum. Tubes can be repaired. Its inflatable design means it packs down small for transport or storage in/on a vehicle when deflated.
As an rigid inflatable boat (RIB), it has superior stability in choppy water compared to smaller rigid hull boats due to its inflatable tubes. It can comfortably carry up to 6 people at once, making it a versatile option for groups or whole-family excursions.With its 20hp rating, it has notable speed potential beyond other boats listed, getting riders/skiers to the action quickly.
In addition to fun and watersports, its stability and capacity make it suitable as a tender or scout boat behind a larger vessel. It lacks features for serious fishing due to size/design; motor mounts limit gear attachment vs. transom-mounted options.
3- Xpress
Xpress deserves to be in the top 3 best aluminum boats 2024 even if it isn’t the #1 choice. Xpress is still an excellent brand that builds high-quality aluminum boats. Their signature attribute is welded construction, providing strength and durability that rivals wood-free competitors. Welds don’t leak over time like rivets potentially could, ensuring a long productive life on the water.
Xpress is also known for using top-tier components throughout their boats. Yamaha outboards are as reliable as they come, delivering years of trouble-free boating. The premium components do impact the price however – Xpress boats represent a higher investment compared to brands like Tracker or Alumacraft. But that premium pricing is partly due to building boats meant to withstand hardcore use for decades, so the higher initial cost may balance out over the long run.
Customers will also appreciate Xpress’s emphasis on included features rather than excessive upgrades. Models like the XP7 provide ample storage, comfortable seating, marine-grade components, and Yamaha’s latest engine tech right from the factory. While customization options aren’t as extensive as the #1 brand, value-focused anglers still get a very capable boat at a fair price point.
2- Alumacraft
Coming in at number two is Alumacraft, a brand known for offering great value without compromising quality. Their all-welded aluminum construction provides the strength and durability of higher-priced boats, but at a more affordable price point. Alumacraft designs every element of their boats to maximize longevity while minimizing costs elsewhere. This allows them to sell feature-packed bass boats starting in the mid-$10K range.
The Prowler 175 exemplifies Alumacraft’s practical approach. For only $15,000, anglers get a trailer, motor, and boat ready to fish right out of the package. Its full welded hull ensures decades of use with zero wood to rot. Premium details like marine-grade components and ample storage also belie its affordable cost. Yet Alumacraft still provides the customization options serious anglers demand through an array of factory upgrades and aftermarket support.
Perhaps the most attractive trait is Alumacraft’s proven reliability. Generations of bass fanatics have fished these boats hard for years, season after season, with little maintenance required. Their no-nonsense functional designs stand up to punishing conditions while maintaining a smooth, stable ride. With a reputation for toughness and a lifetime warranty to back it, Alumacraft delivers unmatched value in the aluminum boat market. It’s no wonder they secure the number two ranking on this aluminum boat tier list 2024.
1- Lowe
Coming in at number one best aluminum boat 2024 is Lowe Boats. In many ways, Lowe sets the standard in durability and functionality that all other aluminum boat builders aspire to. Their proprietary interLok internal welding technique creates hulls that are simply impervious to damage from the elements or hard impacts. Lowe owners can pound bass without concern their boat will pound back.
Lowe also stands alone with customizable options rivaling a luxury yacht. Dozens of interior layouts, motor packages, accessory choices, and even custom graphics allow anglers to design the exact dream boat they envision. And the best part is Lowe doesn’t charge extra for many of these upgrades like other brands. You get a fully loaded watercraft at an incredibly fair price.
Models like the Pro 175 demonstrate how far $20,000 can go at Low. It comes fully rigged with electronics, comfortable seating, ample storage, and a heavy-duty Yamaha outboard. Yet you’ll struggle to find another brand offering this much boat at the same cost. Low squeezes outefficiencies without cutting corners on quality materials or construction practices.
