How To Choose Your Fishing Chair

For the angler who can spend all day or longer fishing, there’s no piece of equipment more important than his chair. Fortunately, the angler has a number of options to choose from, including a folding fishing chair for the boat, fishing chairs for the shore, and even fishing bed chairs for those that enjoy naps. Unfortunately, not all of those options are as comfortable as you’d like, so making the right choice can be a challenge.

Most boats geared for fishing include chairs, so if you’re shopping for new ones, chances are the current ones are downright uncomfortable. The best advice an angler can take is to spend the additional money on adjustable seating. Not only does adjustable seating allow anyone to use the fishing chair, it lets the one using it shift his position throughout the day for maximum comfort. Also, take this opportunity to consider storage options on your boat. If you don’t have enough space, chairs with storage can be a cost-effective way to remedy that.

Some of the same advice applies when buying a chair for  inshore fishing, such as opting for an adjustable model. The more versatility you have, the more comfort you’ll have over long periods. You should also consider your environment, if you have a usual spot. Most chairs are all purpose, but there are specialty models that are better suited to rocky areas or even muddy areas. For example, some chairs have 4-6 independently adjustable legs that can achieve balance in some unusual locations.

Perhaps the greatest factor when choosing a fishing chair is durability. Although it may not seem like it, chairs take a lot of abuse, including packing, transport, unpacking, setup, and sitting. If you buy a cheap model, it might not last a season, while models made of high-quality materials can last a long time, long enough for a father or grandfather to pass the chair down to his son or grandson.

When shopping bed chairs, fishing needs take a backseat to other needs. The most important aspect is that the bed is able to support the angler’s weight and that it’s properly cushioned. You’ll also want to make sure that the bed chair folds naturally and with ease. You may need to stand up to go from full bed to full chair, but you don’t want to have to stand each time you recline a section of it.

Finally, consider a chair with a tray and perhaps even an umbrella. While not necessary, they are extremely convenient to have. But you’ll need to think about portability too. Deluxe chairs are heavy, which is no big deal if you can pull up right to the site. However, if you’re fishing rivers and streams and need to walk into the woods, you may want one that folds up into a backpack.