Flats Skiffs

[Shannon Drawe]

It’s logical that on a national board, most of the ideas of flats boats are of a “Florida strain.” There are, however, a number of regional flats boat makers along the Texas Gulf Coast. The one I am most familiar with is Dargel in Donna, Texas. I don’t know that there are any skiff makers in Texas, and a “Texas flats boat,” in general – isn’t nearly as sexy as a Florida boat. http://www.dargel.com/
I think the most important things in a good flats boat are –
– quality of workmanship / materials
– weight
– draft
– versatility – cut the chop and get shallow

[jarrod white]

Shannon, I bet those boats ride nice, the tri hull design is a very smooth ride for sure.

[dan h]

You will really need to figure out what is most important to you to figure out the best boat for you. You have said you are a minimalist but need a comfortable boat with plenty of storage.

[Shannon Drawe]

That last point is gold. In a 4-dollar a gallon world, which we will go through again someday, I can’t even afford to drive my Land Cruiser, much less pull anything with it. Great point Dan H.

[Grant Wright]

I fished on a couple of New Water’s models down on the Texas Coast.

[keith b]

Grant,
I am glad you posted the link to that company.

[Grant Wright]

Keith,

I have fished from them several times.

[Jason DeBacker]

The subtle, regional variation in flats boats is really neat.

[keith b]

Thanks Grant.
They do look like a niche boat.

[Author]

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