Flat Bottom or V-haul on the Columbia

[KP-Skagit]

My retired father recently purchased a second home over near the Columbia River and I am hoping to buy a used boat that he can take out and fish out of (walleye, triploids, salmon). I was wondering what is best suited for the Columbia (Brewster, Rufus Woods area).

I am more used to the lower Skagit River where a flat bottom is key and a v-haul makes a better bay boat. That said, obviously the Columbia is a different body of water. Furthermore, I have taken flat bottom boats out on the sound on calm day with no issue, then again I have had things blow up while out and regretted it.

The other part of the equation is that I have my eye on a flat-bottom already. If it is not necessarily the ideal choice is it still a decent option? What are the limitations?

Thanks for any input!

[vandeman17]

v-hull if you are mainly on the columbia. With no wind the flat bottom would be fine but as soon as there is some wind and some chop, you will get the piss beat out of you. 

[Crunchy]

 

[NorseNW]

V for sure.  Personal experience - better to have a boat that will handle more water than you are willing to be in.  Even up that way the Columbia can make you feel very small very quickly.  I've been a flat bottom on the Columbia salmon fishing.  Started as a nice day, started getting a little crappy and by the time we decided to call it and head in - not so pleasant.  Actually when you are hugging the shoreline just in case you go in so it's not as far to swim that's a bad day.  Plenty of nice deep v hulls out there that won't brake the bank and make for a much better vessel on the Big C.

Good on you for asking first!

[fowl smacker]

Yep, V hull, no question!

[gaddy]

Agreed with all the above. V-hull.

[KP-Skagit]

Thanks for the input I figured as much. Especially considering the old man has an old spine I guess it is better to wait, bad time of year to buy anyways.

[2MANY]

I'm selling one.

https://seattle.craigslist.org/oly/boa/d/21-fish-rite-jet-sled/6607880779.html

[DOUBLELUNG]

V-hull and at least 18' unless he'll be headed in as soon as the wind starts

[KP-Skagit]

Appreciate the share 2Many but that is a bit out of the price range maybe one day. Good luck!

[Blacklab]

V hull and wide as you can get