Last Updated on August 31, 2024 by Jaxon Mike
Surf fishing can be an exhilarating experience, but it often comes with the challenge of getting your bait out to where the fish are biting. This is where remote control (RC) bait boats come into play, revolutionizing the way anglers approach surf fishing. These ingenious devices allow you to deliver your bait precisely where you want it, even in challenging surf conditions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the world of RC bait boats and review the top 7 options available for surf fishing enthusiasts.
Our Top 3 picks
| Feature | High Speed RC Fishing Bait Boat | RC Bait Boat with GPS | Fishing Bait Boat with GPS |
| Range | 500m | 500m/546 yards | 1968ft (600m) |
| Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
| Load Capacity | 4.5kg (9.9lbs) | 4.4lbs (2kg) | 4.4lbs (2kg) |
| Battery | 10000mAh | 2 x 5200mAh | 2 x 5200mAh |
| Battery Life | Not specified | 90 minutes per battery | 90 minutes per battery |
| Speed | 150m/min | Not specified | 5.91ft/s (1.8m/s) |
| GPS | No | Yes | Yes |
| Auto-Return | No | Yes | Not specified |
| Night Light | Not specified | Yes | Not specified |
| Bait Containers | Not specified | 4 | 3 |
| Material | ABS | ABS | ABS |
| Waterproof | IP60 | Not specified | Not specified |
| Remote Control | Single-handed | Not specified | LCD screen |
| Special Features | Cruise control, line release | Auto-return when battery low or out of range | 99 trolling spots |
| Best For | Ocean and lake fishing | All-round fishing | Professional fishing |
Top 7 RC Bait Boats for Surf Fishing Reviews
Now, let’s dive into our top picks for RC bait boats suitable for surf fishing:
High Speed RC Fishing Bait Boat (CRESEA PRODUCTS)
Key Features:
- 500m control range
- 4.5kg load capacity
- Cruise control function
- 150m/min speed
- 10,000mAh battery
Pros:
- High speed for quick bait deployment
- Excellent load capacity
- Long-range control
- Durable construction with double seals
Cons:
- Some users report difficulty in understanding the controls initially
- Relatively expensive compared to some other options
User Reviews: Users praise the boat’s speed and stability, noting its effectiveness in delivering bait past the sandbar for shark fishing. The cruise control feature is appreciated, though some mention a learning curve with the controls.
RC Bait Boat with GPS (MILBOPAX)
Key Features:
- GPS positioning
- 500m/546 yards control range
- 4.4lbs load capacity
- LED night light
- Auto-return function
Pros:
- GPS functionality for precise bait placement
- Good control range
- Useful night fishing capabilities
- Automatic return feature for safety
Cons:
- Some users report shorter than expected battery life
- May require additional batteries for extended use
User Reviews: Users appreciate the GPS functionality and auto-return feature. The night light is praised for its usefulness in low-light conditions. Some users suggest purchasing additional batteries for longer fishing sessions.
Fishing Bait Boat with GPS (PDTHADP)
Key Features:
- Twin 390 motors with 52W power
- 5.91ft/s sailing speed
- Triple bait bins with 4.4lbs capacity
- 2 x 5200mAh Li-ion batteries
- 99 trolling spots
Pros:
- Powerful motors for good speed
- Large bait capacity with triple bins
- Long battery life with dual batteries
- Durable ABS construction
Cons:
- May be overkill for casual anglers
- Potentially complex for beginners due to advanced features
User Reviews: Users praise the boat’s speed and stability, noting its effectiveness in rivers and lakes. The triple bin design and long battery life are highlighted as significant advantages.
Bait Boat with Depth Sounder and GPS (Fauitay)
Key Features:
- Dual motor yaw correction system
- 1.5kg bait capacity
- 5200mAh battery with 3-4 hours life
- 500m signal reception
- Night fishing LED light
Pros:
- Automatic balancing system for stability
- Good battery life
- Useful depth sounder feature
- Night fishing capability
Cons:
- Some users report issues with signal interference
- May be less suitable for very rough surf conditions
User Reviews: Users appreciate the depth sounder feature and the boat’s stability in moderate conditions. The night fishing LED is noted as particularly useful. Some users mention occasional signal issues at longer ranges.
Jabo Dolphin High Speed Saltwater RC Fishing Surfer Bait Boat
Key Features:
- Highly wave and wind resistant
- 500 meters range
- Automatic return function
- High capacity battery (3000-3500 meters per trip)
- 5 preset distances
Pros:
- Excellent for rough surf conditions
- Long-range capabilities
- Easy to use with preset distances
- Robust construction for saltwater use
Cons:
- Higher price point
- May be more boat than needed for calm water fishing
User Reviews: Users praise the boat’s performance in rough surf conditions, noting its stability and range. The preset distances and automatic return features are highlighted as user-friendly aspects. Some users mention a steep learning curve for maximizing all features.
RC Fishing Bait Boat with GPS for Carp Fishing (CRESEAPRODUCTS)
Key Features:
- Auto navigation and cruise control
- Large bait tray (1.5-2kg capacity)
- 5200mAh battery
- 500m control range
- Built-in gyroscope for yaw correction
Pros:
- Good bait capacity
- Stable performance with gyroscope correction
- Long control range
- Useful auto-navigation features
Cons:
- Some users report difficulty in understanding all features
- May be more suited for lake fishing than heavy surf
User Reviews: Users appreciate the boat’s stability and auto-navigation features. The large bait capacity is noted as particularly useful for longer fishing sessions. Some users mention a learning curve in mastering all the boat’s capabilities.
Fishing Bait Boat with GPS (PDTHADP – Alternative Model)
Key Features:
- Twin 390 motors with 52W power
- 5.91ft/s sailing speed
- Triple bins with 4.4lbs capacity
- 2 x 5200mAh Li-ion batteries
- 99 trolling spots
Pros:
- Powerful performance with twin motors
- Large bait capacity
- Long battery life
- Durable construction
Cons:
- May be complex for beginners
- Potentially more boat than needed for casual anglers
User Reviews: Users praise the boat’s speed and stability, particularly in river and lake conditions. The triple bin design and long battery life are highlighted as significant advantages. Some users note a learning period to fully utilize all features.
Understanding RC Bait Boats
What are RC Bait Boats?
RC bait boats are small, remote-controlled watercraft designed to carry fishing bait and tackle to specific locations in the water. They’re equipped with compartments to hold bait and often feature line release mechanisms, allowing anglers to place their bait and fishing line exactly where they want them.
How Do They Work?
These boats are controlled using a handheld remote, which allows you to navigate the boat to your desired fishing spot. Most modern RC bait boats come with GPS capabilities, enabling precise positioning and even automated return functions.
Benefits of Using RC Bait Boats for Surf Fishing
Extended Casting Range: Bait boats can travel much farther than traditional casting methods, allowing you to reach fish that are out of casting range.
Precise Bait Placement: You can drop your bait exactly where you want it, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Less Physical Strain: Reduces the need for repetitive, long-distance casting, which can be physically demanding.
Multiple Line Placement: Many bait boats can carry and place multiple fishing lines at once.
Ideal for Difficult Conditions: Useful in strong currents or when fishing from areas where casting is challenging.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an RC Bait Boat
When selecting an RC bait boat for surf fishing, several key factors should influence your decision:
Range and Control Distance
The control range is crucial, especially for surf fishing where you might need to navigate your boat quite far from shore. Look for boats with a range of at least 300-500 meters.
Battery Life and Capacity
Long battery life is essential to ensure your boat can make multiple trips without needing a recharge. Consider boats with high-capacity batteries or those that come with spare batteries.
Load Capacity
The boat should be able to carry enough bait and tackle for your fishing needs. Most good bait boats can carry between 1-5 kg of payload.
Speed and Maneuverability
A fast and agile boat will help you place your bait quickly and navigate through waves and currents more effectively.
Durability and Water Resistance
Surf fishing can be tough on equipment. Look for boats with robust construction and good water resistance to withstand saltwater and potential impacts.
GPS and Navigation Features
GPS capabilities can significantly enhance your fishing experience, allowing for precise bait placement and automated return functions.
Bait Release Mechanism
An efficient and reliable bait release system is crucial for accurately placing your bait and lines.
Night Fishing Capabilities
If you plan on fishing at night or in low-light conditions, consider boats with built-in LED lights for visibility.
Comparison of the Top 7 RC Bait Boats
Range and Control Distance
All boats offer a 500m range, with the Jabo Dolphin potentially offering slightly more in ideal conditions.
Battery Life and Capacity
The PDTHADP models lead with dual 5200mAh batteries, while the Jabo Dolphin offers impressive distance per charge.
Load Capacity
The CRESEA PRODUCTS boat leads with a 4.5kg capacity, closely followed by several 4.4lbs (2kg) capacity models.
Speed and Maneuverability
The CRESEA PRODUCTS boat boasts the highest speed at 150m/min, with others offering respectable speeds around 5-6ft/s.
Durability and Water Resistance
The Jabo Dolphin stands out for surf conditions, while all models offer some level of water resistance.
GPS and Navigation Features
All models offer GPS capabilities, with the CRESEAPRODUCTS and MILBOPAX models featuring advanced auto-navigation.
Bait Release Mechanism
All boats feature bait release systems, with the triple bin models (PDTHADP) offering the most versatility.
Night Fishing Capabilities
The MILBOPAX and Fauitay models explicitly mention LED lights for night fishing.
Tips for Using RC Bait Boats in Surf Fishing
Safety Considerations
Always check local regulations regarding the use of RC boats for fishing.
Be aware of other water users, including swimmers and surfers.
Never use your bait boat in conditions beyond its capabilities.
Keep a close eye on battery levels to prevent losing your boat at sea.
Maintenance and Care
Rinse your boat with fresh water after each use in saltwater.
Regularly check and lubricate moving parts.
Store batteries properly and maintain them according to manufacturer instructions.
Periodically check for any water ingress or damage to the hull.
Maximizing Efficiency and Effectiveness
Use your boat’s GPS features to mark productive fishing spots.
Experiment with different bait placements to find where fish are biting.
Take advantage of your boat’s range to place bait beyond where you could cast.
Use your boat to scout for fish or structure before placing your bait.
FAQs
Are RC bait boats legal for fishing?
The legality of RC bait boats varies by location. Always check local fishing regulations before using one. In many areas, they are legal but may have restrictions on use.
How far can RC bait boats travel?
Most high-quality RC bait boats have a range of 300-500 meters. Some advanced models may offer even greater range under ideal conditions.
Can RC bait boats be used in rough surf conditions?
Some RC bait boats, like the Jabo Dolphin, are designed for use in rough surf. However, it’s important to choose a boat rated for the conditions you’ll be fishing in and always prioritize safety.
How long do RC bait boat batteries typically last?
Battery life varies by model, but most offer 1.5-3 hours of use per charge. Some models come with multiple batteries for extended use.
Conclusion
RC bait boats have revolutionized surf fishing, allowing anglers to place their bait with unprecedented precision and range. When choosing the best RC bait boat for your needs, consider factors such as range, battery life, load capacity, and special features like GPS navigation and night fishing capabilities.
Among our top picks, the High Speed RC Fishing Bait Boat from CRESEA PRODUCTS stands out for its excellent speed and load capacity, making it ideal for quick bait deployment in surf conditions. For those tackling particularly rough surf, the Jabo Dolphin offers unparalleled stability and wind resistance. If you’re looking for advanced features and versatility, the GPS-enabled models from PDTHADP and MILBOPAX offer excellent all-round performance.
Ultimately, the best RC bait boat for you will depend on your specific fishing needs, the conditions you typically face, and your budget. By carefully considering the factors we’ve discussed and the features of each boat, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect RC bait boat to enhance your surf fishing experience.
I am Jaxon Mike, the owner of the Rcfact website. Jaxon Mike is the father of only one child. My son Smith and me we are both RC lovers. In this blog, I will share tips on all things RC including our activities, and also share with you reviews of RC toys that I have used.