Pontoon and Desk Boat logo
Are You Ready For Boat Show Bingo? The Free Square Will Make You Laugh
BUyer's Guide: How to Game Plan For Your Next Boat
Catch the Current: Top Boating Trends To Watch For
5 Things to Know About Boat Loans
Insurance Basics: Is Your New Boat Really Covered?
Dollar Per Horsepower: What You Should Expect To Pay For Power
January 2026
JANUARY 2025 | Volume 31, Number 1
CONTENTS
18
BOAT SHOW PLAYBOOK
22
INSURANCE
BASICS
60
FABULOUS 4
10
CAPTAIN’S CHAIR
The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
12
CATCH THE CURRENT
Top Boating Trends To Watch For In 2026
18
BOAT SHOW PLAYBOOK
How To Game Plan For Your Dream Boat
22
INSURANCE BASICS
Are You And Your New Boat Really Covered?
26
FINANCE WITH FINESSE
5 Things To Know About Boat Loans
28
PDB DIRECTORY
Best-Selling Models
36
PDB DIRECTORY
Fishing Specific Models
44
PDB DIRECTORY
Electric Models
46
PDB DIRECTORY
High Performance Models
54
PDB DIRECTORY
Entry-Level Models
60
FABULOUS 4
A Peek At The Powerhouses Of HP
64
BOAT SHOW LISTINGS
The When And The Where
67
ADVERTISER INDEX
Page Number Listings
68
PDB DIRECTORY
Complete Listings Of Top Builders
70
FROM THE SWIM DECK
Boat Show Bingo
ON THE COVER

Boat Shopping At
Idaho Water Sports
(www.idahowatersports.com)
Photo Photo: Brady L. Kay

Cover Design: Laci Thompson

Innovation Awards icon
LEAD OR GET LEFT BEHIND
When it comes to performance, innovation, and style, Barletta knows how to stay ahead of the curve. That’s why we developed the industry’s first-ever center-mounted twin engine pontoon boat. Our reimagined design delivers more than just power—it unlocks next-level functionality, enhanced safety, and a ride experience unlike anything else on the water.

Barletta isn’t chasing trends. We’re setting them.

Barletta Boats logo
WHY CENTER-MOUNTED? CLICK HERE
Pontoon and Deck Boat Logo
PONTOON & DECK BOAT STAFF
Editorial

Executive Editor Brady L. Kay
Assistant Editor Rebecca Blackson
Editorial Staff Nicole Richens, Roy Sparks

Editorial Correspondents
Dan Armitage, Shannon Mitchell

Advertising

Advertising Executives
Greg Larsen, glarsen@pdbmagazine.com
Kevin Malcom, kevin@pdbmagazine.com

Circulation

Circulation Director Chuck Harris

Production

Lead Designer Laci Thompson

To subscribe, go to:
www.harrispublishing.com/pontoon-deck-boat

HARRIS PUBLISHING GROUP ADMINISTRATION

Publisher Brady L. Kay
Executive Editor Brady L. Kay
Circulation Manager Chuck Harris
Controller Clayton Ward

HARRIS PUBLISHING EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATION

Founder Darryl W. Harris
President Jason Harris
Vice President Chuck Harris
Vice President Ryan Harris
Treasurer Clayton Ward

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Copyright, PDB magazine is published 11 times per year by Harris Publishing, Inc., sub rates, back copies, foreign, reproduction prohibitions, all rights reserved, not responsible for contents of ads and submitted materials, mail permits printed in Idaho Falls, ID.

The basic subscription price is $39.95 for 11 issues. Cover price is $5.95. Canadian and Foreign subscriptions add $20.00 per 11 issues. U.S. funds only. Limited back issues are available for $5.00 each.

Copyright 2026 by Harris Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission is strictly prohibited.

Call 208-524-7000 to purchase a subscription, to correct your mailing label, or to order back issues.

Harris Publishing
corporate office

Harris Publishing, Inc.
190 1st St., Idaho Falls, ID 83401
(208) 524-7000 • Fax (208) 522-5241
www.pdbmagazine.com

By Brady L. Kay
Captain’s Chair
“Asking us to pick the best boat show is like asking who your favorite Stooge is.”
Brady L. Kay, a man dressed up in a dark navy blue Pontoon and Deck Boat jacket with a black Pontoon and Deck Boat hat with sunglasses resting on top of his hat
Why It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
Don’t worry, I’m not still humming Christmas songs. My excitement as we move into the new year has nothing to do with the classic holiday song from Andy Williams. Nope, I’m referring to boat show season, and for those considering buying a new pontoon or deck boat, it really is the most wonderful time of the year.

A quick glance at the marker board in our conference room here at PDB headquarters and you might think we’re mapping out a typical January schedule for an NHL team. Toronto is circled in red, with double arrows pointing towards Minneapolis, and question marks are placed beside Atlanta and Milwaukee, along with an exclamation point behind Chicago, but I don’t remember why. No, again we’re not following our favorite hockey team this month. Instead, as a staff, we’re game-planning for a very busy January and our boat show tour!

READ FULL ARTICLE
Catch The Current

Top boating trends to watch for in 2026

BY REBECCA BLACKSON
With boat-buying season on the horizon, you might be wondering what new trends are emerging in the pontoon world. We interviewed the industry’s leading manufacturers to determine the most sought-after options and popular choices for 2026.
A couple smiles while relaxing on a spacious gray aft sunpad of a pontoon boat with a large dog lounging on its back.
Streamlined & Affordable
There comes a time when the average buyer isn’t looking for maxxed-out luxury. Many manufacturers are seeing the market lean away from excessive amenities to focus on well-built models that don’t need every bell and whistle.

“We see the trend going back to more of what we would call ‘normal.’ The $35-$70K price range pontoon models are where our sales registrations are coming in at,” said Tim Allen, vice president of sales for Montego Bay.

“We expect the 90 to 150hp range to solidify its position as the new entry-point for budget-conscious pontoon buyers, as well as the trajectory of electric propulsion in the 1 to 9.9hp category,” said Derek Carlson, CEO of NorthStar Pontoons. “As eco-conscious Gen Z consumers enter the market and discerning Boomers prize effortless operation, we project electric motors will continue to grow in this segment over the years to come.”

A close-up view of the stern of a black and tan Harris pontoon boat, featuring a white Mercury 35e Avator electric outboard motor mounted and tilted up.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Boat Show Playbook
By Brady L. Kay
With some recent downtime, I found myself rummaging through some old boxes in an attempt to declutter. One particular box from my college days caught my attention. Buried under some miscellaneous papers and an actual square computer disk was my old playbook from my playing days on the gridiron. I’ll be the first to admit I’m way past my expiration date these days when it comes to playing football, but it brought back a lot of memories as I attempted to determine if there has been much of an evolution in calling plays between then and now. I played on the defensive line, and for the record, not much appears to have changed over the years.

With the holiday season now passed, it might be time to reach for a different playbook. Unless you found a boat on your driveway with a big bow on it, let’s just assume you didn’t get everything on your wish list this year. Not to worry: 2026 can still be the year you buy your dream boat.

READ FULL ARTICLE
Four people on a motorboat; two men stand and fish while two women sit and relax on the deck under a clear sky.
Insurance
Basics
By Sky Smith
Are you and your new boat really covered?
Basics
Before we talk about insurance, here’s a bit of trivia. After conducting an Internet search, it appears that there are approximately 1.1 million pontoon boats registered in the United States. That’s out of a total of about 12 million recreational boats. It appears that approximately 50,000 pontoons were sold last year. Interestingly, about 65 percent were pre-owned, and the rest were new pontoon sales. That’s a lot of boats.

However, another interesting estimate is that approximately 25 percent of the buyers are first-time buyers. For most first-time boater buyers, boat buying is a very emotional purchase; the image of being on the water and enjoying the sunset makes the purchase more about feelings than logic.

READ FULL ARTICLE

By Rebecca Blackson

Finance with Finesse
5 things to know about boat loans
If you’ve made the decision to get serious about buying a boat, congratulations! It’s exciting to start looking at manufacturer models, layout configurations, and horsepower options. But if you’re financing your boat purchase, it’s important to educate yourself first about boat loans, extra cost considerations, and your own budget constraints before you jump into the fun of shopping. So if you’re financing the cost of a new (or used) boat, here are the top five things to know about boat loan financing.
1. Choose the Right Loan Type
On average, boat loan terms are 10 to 20 years. While a longer-term loan may mean a smaller payment, keep in mind that you will pay more in interest over the life of a loan. A fixed-rate, fixed-term, simple-interest loan is the most common type of boat loan, where the payment will stay the same for the life of the loan. This may be wiser than opting for a variable interest rate, which could increase during the life of the loan. Down payments are generally 10 to 20 percent of the purchase price, but banks may require a larger down payment for an older boat model. Unlike a house that appreciates in value, a boat will depreciate and could be hard to sell if the economy declines.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Best Selling Models
If you’re shopping for a pontoon or deck boat and don’t know where to begin, start by exploring each manufacturer’s best-selling model. If most buyers have found these boats offer the ideal mix of features, performance, and value, you’ll likely feel the same.
Alera Model M 23Q
Built with relentless precision, powered by Mercury engines and designed for those who demand more, the 23Q delivers an uncompromising blend of performance, comfort and control. Command the water with confidence using the expansive 12-inch Ultrawide Simrad display, stay comfortable in ultra-plush vinyl seating and don’t forget to turn up the energy with the premium Roswell audio system.
LOA: 25’ 6’
Beam: 8’ 6”
Max HP: 500hp
Price Range: $130K to $159K
www.alera.com
 
Alera Model M 23Q pontoon in white and gold
READ FULL ARTICLE
Top Fishing Models
Most pontoons and deck boats can handle fishing, but dedicated anglers will want models with fishing features such as livewells and rod holders. These specialized designs cater to your needs, making it easier to reel in the perfect catch with comfort and style.
Avalon GEOfish
The Avalon Geo Fish is built for serious anglers who demand quality and functionality. With durable construction, specialized fishing layouts, rod storage, livewells, and comfortable seating, it combines Avalon craftsmanship with practical features for an efficient, enjoyable, and lasting fishing experience.
LOA: 25’ 6″
Beam: 8’ 6”
Max HP: 400hp
Price Range: $100K to $129K
www.avalonpontoons.com
 
Avalon Geo Fish pontoon in orange and gray
READ FULL ARTICLE
Electric Models
When you’re ready to enjoy smooth electric power and the quiet efficiency of renewable energy, these electric-powered models are the perfect choice. Offering the same comfort and standard features as their gas-powered counterparts, they make getting out on the water effortless and enjoyable.
Bennington 20SL w/Torqeedo Electric Motor
The 20-foot Bennington S Series electric powered by Torqeedo offers quiet, eco-friendly cruising with an L-bench layout for maximum seating and comfort. Featuring sleek design, ergonomic helm, and sustainable performance, it’s great for relaxing, stylish days on the water.
LOA: 20’ 11.5”
Beam: 8’ 6”
Max HP: 25hp
Price Range: $50K to $79K
www.benningtonmarine.com
 
A group of four people inside a Bennington 20SL w/Torqeedo Electric Motor pontoon motorboat vehicle as it is being driven out on the water
READ FULL ARTICLE
Top-of-the-Line High Performance Models
It’s everything you never realized you were looking for—cutting-edge style, exceptional performance, and features you never imagined could exist. Often called “dream boats” or “someday boats,” these vessels are the kind you’ll want to put at the very top of your wish list.
Avalon Excalibur
The Avalon Carbon Fiber Excalibur combines cutting-edge performance with strength and lightweight precision. Crafted with premium materials, sleek design, advanced handling, and upscale amenities, it delivers exhilarating speed, agility, and luxury—ideal for those who demand top-tier innovation, style, and durability on the water.
LOA: 27’ 6”
Beam: 8’ 6”
Max HP: 1,000hp
Price Range: $200K to $249K
www.avalonpontoons.com
 
A sleek Avalon pontoon boat cruises at sunset. It features a modern blue exterior with vibrant purple LED accent lighting along the pontoons and a stylish sport arch.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Entry-Level Models
As more families discover the boating lifestyle, they realize what many already know: boating is one of the best ways to enjoy your free time. These models make it easy to get started, offering exceptional value and affordable pricing. With everything you need for fun on the water, they are the perfect entry point into boating.
Aura
New to the industry, the Aura is sure to be a crowd favorite. Backed by Avalon’s industry leading chassis, this boat features innovative enduro flex form technology, is easy to operate, easy to trailer, and perfect for first time buyers and young families.
LOA: 19-23’
Beam: 8’ 6”
Max HP: 250hp
Price Range: $39K and under
www.aurapontoons.com
 
Aura
READ FULL ARTICLE
A direct rear view of a modern pontoon boat featuring a powerful white Honda 350 V8 outboard engine. The boat has a black wakeboard tower with integrated speakers and passengers seated in the lounge area.
A side profile of a Bennington S22 pontoon boat in motion. The image highlights the large rear sun pad, a white Mercury 150 outboard engine, and passengers looking out toward a grassy shoreline.
An aerial rear view of a red and white Stingray deck boat cruising at high speed. It is powered by a grey Yamaha outboard engine and features a white interior with a black bimini top.
A stationary Qwest pontoon boat on clear water. The boat is equipped with a black Suzuki 150 four-stroke outboard engine. A family is sitting together on the rear bench seat.
Ah,
By Rebecca Blackson
A quick peek at the powerhouses of horsepower
The Fabulous 4
Ah,
The Fabulous 4
A quick peek at the powerhouses of horsepower
By Rebecca Blackson
Honda, Mercury, Suzuki, and Yamaha are the names to know in marine outboard power, and each of them offers an impressive lineup of engine options. Since pontoons and deck boats are best matched with the high-power segment, we’ll highlight their offerings on this higher end of the market.

Face it: your choice of engine and size can make or break your experience on the water, as it affects everything from torque and handling to your overall performance and speed. And because an engine can add up to a third of the cost of an entire boat purchase, this significant part of your investment needs to be more than just an afterthought. Here’s a rundown on popular pairings for a pontoon or deck boat from these notable manufacturers.

READ FULL ARTICLE
Boat Show Listings
The when and where of the early 2026 shows
ADVERTISERINDEX
View Advertisers
Company Name
Page #
  • Alera Marine21

www.aleramarine.com

  • American Honda11

www.marine.honda.com

  • Aura Pontoons43

www.aurapontoons.com

  • Avalon Pontoons72

www.avalonpontoons.com

  • Barletta Boats7

www.barlettapontoonboats.com

  • Conrad Marine8

www.conradmarine.com

  • SunCatcher by G3 Boats4

www.suncatcherpontoon.com

  • Godfrey Marine3

www.godfreypontoonboats.com

  • Hurricane Boats17

www.huricaneboats.com

  • JC TriToon Marine21

www.jcpontoon.com

  • Princecraft Boats41

www.princecraft.com

  • SeaLift71

www.sealiftusa.com

  • Sky Smith Specialty Insurance67

www.skysmith.com

  • Starcraft Marine25

www.starcraftmarine.com

  • Sylvan Marine5

www.sylvanmarine.com

  • Suzuki Marine Outboards2

www.suzukimarine.com

  • Teak Isle Mfg15

www.teakisle.com

paddle

Where’s The Paddle?

A paddle is hiding inside each issue of PDB and the names of the first readers to find it are printed in an upcoming magazine! As soon as you find the paddle, email its location, your name, and hometown to paddle@pdbmagazine.com. Paddle on! In our Fall issue the paddle is on page 23 on the seat of the Hurricane deck boat (shown in the photo). Here are the readers who spotted it first:
Rich Christensen, Townville, S.C.
Danny Criner, North Chesterfield, Va.
Ken Braun, Hartford, Wis.
David Groner, Vacaville, Calif.
Marcus Rosehill, Kaneohe, Hawaii
Jill Segar, Cambridge, Md.
Ian MacDonald, Ossipee N.H.
Tobias Reigns, West Chester, Ohio
Kaylee Lewis, Grand Rapids, Mich.
Richard Burchill, Budd Lake, N.J.
hidden paddle
Directory Assistance
A complete listing of the top pontoon and deck boat manufacturers
By Shannon Mitchell
BOAT SHOW
Digital orange color stylized custom typography that reads the following word Bingo
Portrait orientation digital watercoloring illustration art of Shannon Mitchell in blue swimwear attire and a orange swimming life jacket equipped around her body as she is standing on top of a small motor boat that is situated on top of water
Even if you’re not in the market for a new boat, there are a million enticing reasons to attend a boat show. Here’s what you can look for if it’s not a new model you’re after. How quickly can you earn a bingo or even a blackout with these funny sights?
A 5x5 bingo card for a boat show; Squares include descriptions like Kid having a meltdown, Live fishing pond, Someone drinking on a boat, An ugly boat, etc.; The center free square in blue is labeled FREE SQUARE: Overpriced food
Pontoon and Desk Boat logo
Thanks for reading our January 2026 issue!
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