Bass Cat Ranks #1 In Best Bass Boat Manufacturers

Written by

JESSICA MACDONALD

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products and services; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

Best Boat Manufacturers

Choosing the world’s best boat manufacturers is a Herculean task; after all, boats come in countless different sizes, shapes, and types, each one with its own specific purpose. Some are built for off-shore fishing or for towing wakeboards and water skis, while others are for skimming over shallow coastal flats or providing hours of family fun on an inland lake. For every type of boat, there are many different specialist manufacturers, and choosing between them is often a matter of personal preference. Here we chose the best boat manufacturers, so you can pick the one that most fits your needs.

Best Bass Boats: Bass Cat

Why We Chose It: We chose Bass Cat as our favorite manufacturer for its longevity and stellar reputation. Founded in 1971, it’s one of the longest-operating bass boat builders in the world.

WHAT WE LIKE

  • The smoothest ride in rough water

  • Innovative vacuum bonded build for exceptional strength

  • Industry-leading customer service

WHAT WE DON'T LIKE

  • Premium models are very expensive

  • Some reviewers prefer the storage layout of other brands

  • Less deck space than some competing brands

Sleek, speedy, and purpose-built for one thing, bass boats comprise one of the most competitive categories in the boating market. The choice of bass fishing pros like Mike Iaconelli and Shin Fukae, Bass Cat boats boast immaculate craftsmanship and effortless handling and are particularly well-known for performing well in rough water. 

The brand is responsible for many industry innovations, including recessed trolling motor pedals and vacuum molded processes that allow for one-piece construction of the hull, floor, and stringers. The latter results in the incredible strength and energy transfer that Bass Cat boats are known for.

There are three series to choose from: Vision, Advantage, and Premium, with models that are 17 feet and 7 inches to 22 feet. You can also custom-design your dream boat from scratch. A relatively small operation, Bass Cat offers best-in-class service and has an incredibly loyal customer base. Plus, all Bass Cat boats come with a transferable lifetime structural warranty.

Dreams are what give us our futures, and memories open our hearts.

A Bass Cat Story

A Bass Cat Story

Ron’s first dream of a hand built boat was stored on the front porch of his parents home. He ran it with his grandfathers outboard, usually without granddad Bill knowing it. Well, he pretended as if he never knew? That old wooden boat was simply the start of many memories which would unfold over time, and fostered by those who care.
That dream opened the door to a new world. A world of skiing and eventually bass fishing as life evolved and changed with family. From that old wooden boat others would follow as the Pierce family stayed active in the outdoors. Eventually Ron achieved a successful career in the plastics industry. Things were changing as he and Jan looked for something different. In Mountain Home they purchased a small drive in restaurant following the footsteps of Jan’s parents. Their cookin’ chickens on a Sunday afternoon ran into the case lots. This was too monotonous for a dreamer who loved to fish.

They moved forward and in 1971, Ron and Jan started Bass Cat in their two car garage. From there it moved to a small military style quansit hut…which was fast outgrown. The one and final move was to the present location in 1972 where the factory stands today. Several additions and alterations have been made since 1999, with more to come.
Over the years things in the business also changed. Those first Bass Cat boats could be purchased for less than $1,000.00. The entire package wouldn’t run more than $2,500.00. While boats certainly have changed, the drive for memories has not.

Eventually our innovations like recessed trolling pedals elevated electronics found their way into other boats. Just like the battery chargers and interior box lighting, they are not gimmicks. And neither are the production techniques, as we were never able to grasp the mid 70s concept of simply screwing a boat together. There was just something wrong in having to tighten screws that held the boat together after a long day on the water. So we always build best boat as one unit. These construction methods are amazingly claimed by many nowadays. Though claims are not proof and we have the proof.

And how about design, not only in 1971, In 1977 we took our Vee hulls in a new direction. That too was copied by the largest in our industry today. In 1984 we introduced the design which pattern the first of today’s 19 foot, 200 hp rated wide beam (92”) bass boats. Those Pantera Pro model for revolutionary! Then in nineteen eighty eight it was the Pantera II and Sabre… the first of any of today’s true tournament machines. The equipment on those Pantera II’s, and Sabres is still unmatched by most…and the Pantera IV (P4) let the way as the tradition continues.

The Puma is probably the most innovative tournament boat since the Pantera II and Saber of 1988. Then there is the new wide body hall for larger engines. Which many only try to achieve, and again claim to have. Though again we were the first.

We continue hard at work and you can expect more this sets us apart from those corporate affiliates. Innovation is a mission for us, and a must to keep your needs in the forefront. The 6X custom Italian steering wheel, or the recessed trolling pedals are only pages in our innovation book.

In the 2005 brochure we spoke of ourselves as the “Farm Club.” References we made to building careers that moved on. With nine (9) anglers in the Bassmasters Classic in 2010, we continue to distance ourselves from a “farm club” today. Many of these men started their careers with a BCB, just like you. All a part of the same “Family” you share as a Bass Cat owner.

That “Family” is never more present than our Owner’s Board, where they exhibit a character we are extremely proud of! They want to help as much as we do! They are our most important staff, our most valuable asset and the real “Family.” Their families are also a part of this, and we have truly been blessed with that dedication and support.

We said before, in any industry you either lead, evolve, or die. Leading is all we know to do and we continue to do so, in that perhaps someday all of our grandchildren can all be a part of this.

What better life would one possibly want.

We thank you for this opportunity.

Rick Pierce



Bill Siemantel#basscatboats, #bbzjc #bassboats #bassmaster