Surf fishing can be an extremely rewarding hobby, but it also comes with its challenges. One of the biggest obstacles when surf fishing is getting your bait past the crashing waves and out to where the fish are feeding. This is where RC (remote control) bait boat can come in handy. In this article, I’ll provide a comprehensive guide to using RC bait boats for surf fishing, including the benefits they offer, what to look for when buying one, how to use them effectively, and our recommendations of the best RC bait boats for surf fishing.
List of the Best RC Bait Boats for Surf Fishing
Check out the thorough review of the best RC bait boats for surf fishing below.
1. CRESEAPRODUCTS RC Bait Boat for Surf Fishing
The CRESEAPRODUCTS High Speed RC Fishing Bait Boat is an upgraded high-performance remote control fishing boat designed for ocean and lake fishing. With a maximum speed of 150 meters per minute, this 12-volt bait boat can travel at twice the speed of similar models, with an impressive range of 500 meters. The reinforced, IP60 waterproof ABS hull is built to withstand wind, waves, and harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for ocean use.
A high-capacity 10,000mAh battery powers the motor for extended working time between charges while supporting 3-5kg of gear. Easy to operate with the included single handheld remote display, this bait casting boat allows anglers to simultaneously control the boat and hold their fishing rod.
Pros And Cons
2. GoolRC Flytec V500 RC Bait Boat for Surf Fishing
Designed for fishing enthusiasts, the GoolRC Flytec V500 RC Fishing Bait Boat allows remote casting and bait delivery up to 500 meters away. The durable ABS plastic hull withstands winds, waves, and impacts thanks to superior scratch and wear resistance. With a 1.5kg load capacity split between two independent bait containers, the boat supports multiple bait types like corn, particles, or mixes. Operated by a 2.4GHz transmitter for interference-free control, the boat features forward, backward, turning, and bait release functions.
Blue LED lights assist with night fishing and attracting catches. Power comes from a large rechargeable lithium battery placed mid-hull for stability; run time exceeds 2 hours per charge. The reliable 500-meter range, flexible dual bait compartments, LED lighting, and rugged construction makes the GoolRC Flytec V500 a feature-packed RC fishing boat ready for lake or ocean use.
Pros And Cons
3. MEKNIC RC Bait Boat for Surf Fishing
The MEKNIC Fishing Bait Boat with GPS offers long-range remote casting up to 500 meters for precise bait delivery. Its sturdy, streamlined ABS plastic hull withstands impacts and water conditions while reducing drag. Three generous 2kg/4.4lb bait compartments allow independent control over multiple bait types. Power comes from a robust 5200mAh lithium battery providing around 4 hours of continuous run time per charge, with no need to remove the battery for charging.
Safety features include auto-return when signals are lost, along with propeller covers to avoid entanglements. Built-in GPS enables automatic navigation back to fishing spots. With 300 meters of interference-free control range, generous bait capacity, long battery life, and GPS integration, the MEKNIC Fishing Bait Boat provides advanced functionality for serious anglers.
Pros And Cons
4. KFJZGZZ RC Bait Boat for Surf Fishing
The KFJZGZZ RC Fishing Bait Boat is a high-tech remote control fishing boat with built-in GPS for precision bait casting. Store up to 2kg of bait in the three large hoppers and utilize cruise control to automatically navigate between four customizable waypoints, dropping bait as you go. The LCD remote displays key data like battery level, range, direction, and light status. Safety features automatically return the boat if signals are lost or the battery runs low. With 500 meters of interference-free control range, you can cover more water.
Bright LEDs assist with night fishing to attract catches. The durable plastic hull and protective propeller guards allow use in vegetation. For advanced anglers seeking an RC bait boat with hopper bait storage, GPS waypoint navigation and cruise control, plus long range and runtime, the KFJZGZZ RC Fishing Bait Boat delivers customizable automated bait delivery to your favorite fishing holes.
Pros And Cons
5. CRESEAPRODUCTS RC Fishing Bait Boat with GPS
The CRESEAPRODUCTS RC Fishing Bait Boat with GPS offers advanced features for serious anglers. Its large 1.5-2kg capacity bait tray precisely delivers baits over a 500-meter range. Built-in gyroscopes provide automatic yaw correction, while LED lights assist with night fishing. A 12,000mAh battery enables long run times between charges. Set the cruise control, and the boat will sail in one direction, freeing your hands. The waterproof hull withstands waves, supported by seamless construction and stainless steel switches.
Built-in GPS allows pre-programming up to four waypoints for automatic navigation and bait dispersal between your favorite fishing spots. With customizable cruise control, generous bait capacity, and GPS waypoint mapping, the CRESEAPRODUCTS RC Fishing Bait Boat provides automated hands-free operation for carpet bombing fishing holes with bait.
Pros And Cons
6. Alomejor Fishing Bait Boat
The Alomejor Fishing Bait Boat allows remote bait casting up to 500 meters. Its ABS plastic hull withstands impacts while the 5200mAh lithium battery provides extended run times. Dual bait compartments with 1.5kg capacity enable independent control over multiple baits. The dedicated digital modulation system offers a stable signal without interference. Propeller guards prevent vegetation snags and entanglements. Bright blue LEDs assist with night fishing by illuminating travel direction.
With a generous 500-meter range, independent bait compartments, long-lasting battery, and bright lighting, the Alomejor Fishing Bait Boat provides an affordable remote control solution for effectively delivering baits to desired spots day or night.
Pros And Cons
7. AHWZ Fishing RC Bait Boat
The AHWZ Fishing Tool Smart RC Bait Boat delivers baits remotely up to 500 meters away. Its durable ABS plastic hull withstands wind and waves thanks to a fully enclosed waterproof design. Dual motors enable independent 1.5kg bait compartment operation for flexible control. The 5200mAh lithium battery sits mid-hull for stability while providing around 3 hours of run time per charge. One-button cruise control lets the boat travel at fixed speeds for hands-free operation.
Upgraded 3-blade propellers boost speed and power. Bait hoppers automatically close when motors are turned off to avoid startling fish. With generous bait capacity, long battery life, cruise control, and a 500-meter range, the AHWZ Fishing Tool Smart RC Bait Boat takes the hard work out of bait dispersal, letting you kick back and focus on fishing while it quietly deploys baits across a wide radius.
Pros And Cons
8. doorslay RC Bait Boat for Fishing
The doorslay RC Bait Boat offers advanced automation for serious anglers. GPS and Beidou dual satellite positioning enables preset navigation routing to 40 points for automatic cruise control operation. Just program your desired path and bait dispersal spots and let the boat run on its own. Built-in auto-balance keeps the boat tracking straight despite wind, waves, and uneven weight distribution. Safety features automatically return the boat on low battery or lost signals.
Dual silent motors provide power without disturbing fish, while upgraded 3-blade propellers improve thrust and speed. With 2kg bait capacity, 500-meter range, and automated navigation between 40 programmable points, the doorslay RC Bait Boat provides hands-free operation for carpet bombing fishing spots with bait throughout the day.
Pros And Cons
How to Choose the Best RC Bait Boats for Your Surf Fishing?
Surf fishing is an extremely enjoyable hobby, but it can be frustrating when you can’t cast your bait past the pounding waves. RC (remote control) bait boats provide the solution, allowing you to position your baits precisely where the fish are feeding. But with different models on the market, how do you pick the right RC boat for your specific needs and fishing style? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting an RC bait boat for surf fishing. Follow these tips to find the perfect boat to take your catches to the next level!
1. Determine Your Range Requirements
The most important specification for an RC bait boat is its maximum range, or how far out it can travel from shore. Consider the typical conditions where you fish – are the waves massive or more moderate? Do you need to reach far beyond the breakers to get into “fish zone”? Look for boats with a labeled operating range of at least 300 feet to reach prime surf fishing areas. Advanced models can now reach out to 500 feet or more.
2. Evaluate Speed and Power
You’ll need an RC boat with enough thrust and speed to punch through surf and currents. Dual electric motors provide more power and propulsion. The boat should be able to hit speeds of at least 3-5 mph to give you versatility in various conditions. Faster is better when it comes to covering more water.
3. Assess Durability
Surf fishing puts gear through the wringer, so your RC boat needs to be up to the task. Look for tough polyethylene or ABS construction that can handle beach launches and saltwater operation. Waterproof motors, circuits and batteries are also a must. Check owner reviews to confirm durability.
4. Consider Capacity
Determine how many separate fishing rigs you want to deploy at one time. Entry-level boats may carry 4-6 baits, while high-end models can handle 10+ lines. This allows setting a wide spread to locate fish. But don’t overdo capacity if you’ll mainly use a couple rods. Match to your typical fishing.
5. Review Controls and Features
The best RC boats have simple and intuitive controls via a wireless remote. Advanced options like GPS-based autopilot are less hands-on but remove much of the piloting challenge. Other useful features include rod holders, bait clip options, range trackers and video camera feeds.
6. Assess Your Budget
RC boats range from $100 basic models to $2000 for bells-and-whistles packages. Set a budget, then get the most range, power and durability possible. It’s worth investing more if you’ll use the boat frequently. Quality matters greatly here.
7. Weigh Your Transport Needs
Factor in how you’ll get the RC boat to your fishing spots – smaller and more portable systems may be better for travel and hard-to-access beaches. But don’t sacrifice key performance. Look for boats around 12-18 lbs. with carrying cases.
Frequently Asked Questions When Picking the Best RC Bait Boats For Surf Fishing
1. What is an RC bait boat?
An RC (remote control) bait boat is a radio-controlled motorized vessel used to deploy fishing baits and lines far beyond the surf zone when shore fishing. The angler controls the boat remotely via a handheld transmitter on the beach. RC boats allow surf casters to effectively fish areas much farther out that can’t be reached by conventional casting methods.
2. What are the main benefits of using an RC bait boat?
- Cast baits and rigs hundreds of feet farther offshore
- Deliver multiple baits precisely to targeted locations
- Keep bait presentations disturbance-free
- Access prime fishing spots like reefs, wrecks and structure
- Cover more water to find actively feeding fish
- Allows fishing with less physical effort
- Can be used to deploy chum to attract fish
3. What should I look for in choosing an RC bait boat?
Key factors to consider are maximum range, power/thrust, durability, bait capacity, ease of control, and any special features. Look for boats with 300+ foot range, twin electric motors, tough construction, 6-10 bait capacity, intuitive radio controls, and useful additions like GPS and camera systems. Match the boat capabilities and specs to your common surf fishing conditions and needs.
4. What is the range I need for proper surf fishing?
Look for RC boats that advertise a maximum range of 300 feet or longer. This allows you to get your lines well beyond the breakers and cover the large swaths of prime surf fishing territory. Models with 500+ foot range provide even more versatility.
5. How much do RC bait boats cost?
There are RC bait boats to fit most any budget. Entry-level boats start around $100-200, mid-range models run $300-800, and high-performance boats with all the bells and whistles can cost $1500-2000. Set your budget and get the most durable boat with the longest range you can afford.
6. What maintenance do RC boats require?
It’s essential to rinse the boat in freshwater after each use and fully recharge the batteries. Allow batteries to air dry before storage. Check for any cracks or leaks that could allow water intrusion. Keep the boat clean and lubricate moving parts. Don’t leave in direct sunlight. Follow the owner’s maintenance guide.
7. Can RC boats be used in rivers or lakes?
While designed for saltwater surf fishing use, some RC bait boat models can work well for fishing large inland waters like lakes and reservoirs. Just be sure to thoroughly rinse the boat after each freshwater trip. Their use may be restricted in certain regulated river systems, so always check local laws first.
8. What are the best RC bait boat brands?
Some of the top manufacturers known for quality and performance include Extreme Sport Fishing, Nitro, Savage Gear, Magic Mary, and Gigglefish. Study reviews and compare boat specs to choose a brand that fits your needs and budget. Shop for the best combination of durability, power, range, and ease of use.
Final Thoughts
RC bait boats open up a whole new dimension for surf anglers. They allow getting baits into the prime strike zones that are normally inaccessible from shore. If you’re a serious surfcaster looking to maximize your time on the water, incorporate one of these hi-tech helpers into your fishing arsenal. Just follow the guidelines above for choosing, using, and caring for an RC boat, and enjoy expanded opportunities to catch more and bigger fish from the beach! Let me know if you have any other questions about applying this fantastic technology to your surf fishing.
Enjoyed this guide of the best RC bait boats for surf fishing? Then be sure to check out our other RC Rating guides.