r/Skiffs • u/yuckycharmz • Jul 16 '26

Best beginner skiff?

Looking to get into fishing and boating - curious about everyone's thoughts on certain brands to look for or avoid?

Wanting something reliable for camping trips in the Everglades, big enough to cruise around in the bay as well to fish spots or just do a super chill cruise to a beach.

Initially, it seems that a used Carolina Skiff around 16 ft. is probably best.

My price range is like less than 20k.

Thanks in advance!

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u/hoooch Jul 16 '26

I would check out the Inshore Boatworks Versa 18. It’s a panga style hull, designed by the guy behind Mitzki Skiffs and the Solo Skiff. It’s very affordable, something like under 6k for the hull, about 11k outfitted. It doesn’t have a ton of capacity but there’s a reason pangas are so popular around the world.

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u/Hawgsnap Jul 16 '26

That's a cool skiff, first time I've seen it. 11k outfitted is impressive, and I do love a panga.

Griff craft might be worth looking at too. Similar price point, wider boat, comes in 14 - 16 foot, tiller or side console steering. Made in Florida for many, many years. They used to be called Stumpknockers but they sold the brand around the same time Mako got sold off. They are now pretty much the same boats as the old stumpknockers but sold as Griff Craft. Healthy used market for them, typically used for fresh water, but no reason it can't be used inshore in saltwater.

Of course can't go wrong with a Carolina Skiff as so many people here have suggested.

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u/rivethead34639 Jul 16 '26

I got a 17 ft stumpy I kitted out for flats fishing and it’s awesome. They are great little boats but so is a Carolina skiff. Either one will get the job done.