Boat fishingDeep-V fishing boat - all-rounder for large inland waters

Thorsten Trojan

 · 06.02.2026

Boat type 2: the Deep-V fishing boat
Photo: Tracker Boats
Wind, waves, distance - a Deep-V fishing boat is the reliable all-rounder for the Rhine, Bodden, large lakes, Holland and Scandinavia. Aluminium as a robust construction material, 4.50 to 6 metres in length, usually with console(s) and outboard motor - plus front engine for precise boat control.

Application profile

  • Territories: Rhine, Bodden, large Dutch waters and Sweden's inland
  • Target fish: Pike, zander, perch
  • Typical sizes: 4.50-6.00 metres, as side console, double console with walk-through; tiller rather rare, but very popular especially for pelagic fishing

Deep-V tender - why this type of boat?

A Deep-V cuts waves cleanly, runs dry and remains directionally stable - ideal when the weather turns and you still want to cast precisely or fish vertically. Aluminium is a grateful, lightweight and robust material for this (trailer and slip-friendly, low maintenance). Special fibreglass designs (bass boats) score points with very fine hull details, high performance and particularly quiet running - but are usually more expensive.

Design & layout

  • Clear V in the bow (high deadrise angle at the front) and a continuous frame and stringer structure for stiff, smooth running
  • Cockpit & Decks: Long, flat casting zones at the front and ideally also at the rear; good but not excessive freeboard, often without railing and with foldable cleats to minimise interference when fishing
  • Storage space for rods up to 2.30 metres in length and protected console(s) for large displays
  • Additional protection: walk-through windscreen (WT) or high console for spray and wind protection in large areas
  • Everyday use: Integrated storage compartments for tackle, safety equipment and accessories. Also available with a livewell option for those who prefer it. Everything is designed for fishing ex works.

The drive

Outboard suitable for the area - plus front engine

Select the power of the outboard motor according to the boat licence, load and desired cruising speed. Maximum motorisation often provides the best combination (reserves, lower continuous speed), but is not mandatory - if you rarely use full throttle, you can stay below this.

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Second drive (front motor/bow motor)

The electric trolling motor on the bow is practically standard on this type. It automatically holds its position (GPS anchor/"spot lock"), runs saved routes, holds course against wind/current and allows fine drifts - so you can fish longer in the strike window without having to constantly correct.

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Bow motor - that's why it's so powerful

  • GPS anchor: Stay on the spot at the touch of a button - wind/drift are automatically equalised
  • Course/route: Heading lock & route runs for structurally accurate tapping
  • "Jog"/fine offset: Move in 1 to 2 metre increments without re-anchoring. You fish - the motor holds the position. Less tangled lines and anchors, more time on the fish.

Expert tip

Typical Deep-V aluminium fishing boat - designed with fishing in mind straight from the factory. A "coherent" all-round Deep-V has exactly the things that anglers really use:

  • Walk-through or high console for protection & visibility
  • Large, raised casting decks at the front and rear
  • Lockable storage compartments and long rod compartments
  • Preparation for bow motor installation: sturdy bow plate and cable bushings
  • A more complex echo sounder installation is included ex works. Transom transducers require a sensible position, feed-throughs and accessibility for installation.
  • A lot of electronics require a lot of energy: storage compartments that hold several batteries in 12 V (for the echoes), additional 12 V for the combustion engine and 24/36 V for the bow engine are sufficiently dimensioned and offer lashing and fastening points for securing the batteries.
  • Robust holding points and clever details for team fishing should be standard, e.g. seat bases, casting seat mounts and a livewell option.

Dimensioning & layout are optimised for "big water": Deep foredeck V, solid stringer/mirror connection.

  • Hull: Deep-V, aluminium. If you are looking for top performance, consider fibreglass hulls in Deep-V or bass boat style.
  • Motor: Combustion outboard motor and electric bow motor with 24 or 36 V
  • Electronics: 10″-12″ Chart plotter at the helm Additional device at the bow; transom transducer, possibly transducer in the bow engine
  • Deck: Space for 3-5 rods up to 2.40 m, plus storage compartments for tackle, anchors and safety equipment

Trailerability

Suitable for everyday use despite its size: with a reasonable dyke load, tensioning strap routine and some slip training, the Deep-V is the ideal cruising boat between the Rhine, Holland, Bodden and Scandinavia. A Deep-V all-rounder combines safety reserves in waves, long casting decks and precise boat control thanks to the front engine. Aluminium makes for robust, trailer-friendly platforms, while bass boats (GRP) offer maximum performance for those who prioritise speed and precision sailing. So you'll find your area match instead of a compromise.


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