Flats Skiff Essentials

As anglers, having the right tools for the job is important. When it comes to tarpon fishing, one tool is more important than the rest: a flats skiff. The right skiff allows you to cross big water, float shallow, and make a stalk on the fish you are after. Regardless of what skiff you own, there are pieces of gear that can give you the edge over the fish and other anglers. After years of testing, we’ve identified some key pieces of gear that, when added to a skiff, make your time on the water more enjoyable. These are the flats skiff essentials every angler should have aboard.

For the Poling Purist:

True flats fishing requires a skiff, a poling platform, and a push pole, and that’s it. These are the pieces of gear that make poling a boat all day much more enjoyable. 

Strip and Feed Stripping Bucket

Even on a technical poling skiff, with a clear casting deck, line management is important. When the winds pick up, it can blow your line in the water or cause tangles that will lead to a lost fish. One of the best pieces of gear we’ve found to combat this is the new casting bucket from Strip and Feed. These buckets are built to withstand the constant abuse of inshore fishing. They are heavier than other buckets on the market, but for a reason. In rough seas, the bucket stays firmly planted, ensuring you are ready when tarpon show themselves. 

Marquesea Marine Small Diameter Push Pole

The new Small Diameter Push Pole from Marquesa Marine has quickly become a favorite amongst guides and anglers. It features a slimmer diameter tube than traditional push poles, allowing the user to pole with less fatigue. When you’re poling a boat all day long, this definitely does not go unnoticed. Despite its thinner profile, Marquesa Marine has developed a pole that is plenty stiff due in part to its carbon fiber construction. Even in the 24-foot pole, you do not compromise rigidity. 

Scientific Anglers Launch Pad

If you don’t want a stripping bucket but still want line control, the Launch Pad is a great option. This small silicone mat features spikes made to keep your line from tangling, and in the boat. It’s also easy to move to make sure your line is consistently landing on top of the mat.

YETI Bucket

A YETI Bucket serves a lot of purposes on a skiff. This is arguably one of the most versatile pieces of gear, serving as an anchor storage bucket, trash can, or extra storage. With a simple bungee cord, you can secure it to any poling platform, keeping it out of the way until you need it. 

Blacktip Fabrications Emperor Stool

Rough days on the water can make standing on the front of the skiff uncomfortable. Instead of constantly fighting to keep your balance, tarpon stools give you a place to rest when fish show up. There are several options available, and most fabricators can build custom stools to your liking. If you’re interested in a stool, check out the Emperor from Blacktip Fabrication. 

Carbon Marine Standard Crail

If you like the concept of a leaning stool but want the extra height of a casting platform, a leaning post-style casting platform is the best option. This combines the added height and support into one piece of gear. The Carbon Marine Standard Crail is one of the lightest options available. Built entirely from carbon fiber, this cradle features a wrap-around back bar and an EVA foam pad for added comfort. 

For All-Around Skiffs:

Some anglers use their skiffs as a Swiss Army knife, switching from inshore flats to freshwater fishing, and even offshore on calm days. With that, certain pieces of gear can add versatility to an otherwise technique-specific boat. 

Power-Pole Move Trolling Motor

A trolling motor can open up a lot of new fisheries, especially ones where poling simply isn’t an option. The Power-Pole Move trolling motor is currently the best offering on the market. With a titanium shaft, it’s wicked strong, corrosion resistant, and capable of operating in strong currents without the shaft flexing. In addition, it’s incredibly quiet, minimizing added commotion. Just be careful about using your trolling motor on the flats; this is where you pole your skiff.

Power Pux Trolling Motor Receptacle

If you decide to add a trolling motor to your skiff, there is no better way to power it than with a Power Pux. Unlike other power receptacles, this one is designed to take the place of your trolling motor puck. This means you have a simple, strong, waterproof, and cordless connection. If you don’t want extra wires on the deck and want a plug that will last, then this is the only option for boaters.

Norsk Lithium Batteries

To get the most out of your electronics on a boat, proper power is a must. The new standard for long-lasting and reliable power is lithium batteries. Norsk, a company dedicated to making marine batteries, builds specialty batteries depending on your needs. The battery can also be controlled and monitored via the Norsk App, giving you real-time insights into what your battery is doing.

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