When it comes to finding the perfect balance between a family-friendly vessel and a serious fishing machine, the Angler Bay 181 Tunnel Skiff DLX often comes up in conversation. But does it live up to the hype? We spent over 40 hours on the water, putting this boat through its paces in various conditions, from calm morning lakes to choppy coastal waters. This comprehensive review will delve into the performance, features, and build of the Angler Bay 181 to help you decide if it's the right skiff for your needs.

First Impressions

The Angler Bay 181 Tunnel Skiff DLX makes a strong first impression with its clean lines and practical layout. It's clear that this boat was designed with anglers in mind, but not at the complete expense of comfort and versatility. The "DLX" in its name signifies the deluxe package, which includes a variety of features that are often optional on other skiffs in this class.

Performance and Handling

At the heart of the 181 DLX's design is its tunnel hull. This feature allows the propeller to be raised higher, reducing the draft to an impressive 8-10 inches. This makes the skiff ideal for navigating shallow flats, backwaters, and other areas that are inaccessible to deeper V-hull boats. During our testing, the tunnel hull performed as advertised, allowing us to glide over skinny water without any issues. The boat gets on plane quickly with a 90 HP motor, and the ride is surprisingly dry for a skiff, thanks to the flared bow. In calm to moderately choppy waters, the 181 DLX is a joy to handle, with responsive steering and stable cornering. However, like most skiffs, it's not designed for rough, open seas. While it can handle some chop, it's best suited for inshore and nearshore adventures.

Fishing Features

This is where the Angler Bay 181 Tunnel Skiff DLX truly shines. It comes loaded with features that will appeal to serious anglers:

• Ample Storage: The boat boasts generous storage compartments, including a large forward casting deck with a storage locker, under-gunwale rod storage, and additional compartments in the rear.
• Livewell: A standard livewell is located in the console, which is a convenient and practical placement.
• Rod Holders: The skiff is equipped with multiple rod holders, including vertical holders on the console and gunwale-mounted holders.
• Trolling Motor Pre-wiring: The boat comes pre-wired for a trolling motor, making it easy to add this essential fishing accessory.

Design, Layout, and Comfort

The layout of the 181 DLX is both functional and comfortable. The center console design provides a 360-degree fishing platform, and the wide gunwales offer additional seating and a stable surface to walk on. The helm is well-designed, with plenty of space for mounting electronics. The flip-flop cooler seat at the helm is a versatile feature, providing comfortable seating for two while also offering a convenient place to store drinks and snacks. The console seat is another nice touch, providing additional seating for a passenger. With a capacity of up to nine people (or 1,269 lbs), this skiff can easily accommodate a small family or a group of fishing buddies.

Build Quality and Durability

The Angler Bay 181 Tunnel Skiff DLX is a well-built boat, especially for its price point. The hull is constructed from hand-laid fiberglass, and the deck is bonded to the hull to create a strong, one-piece unit. The hardware is stainless steel, and the overall fit and finish are excellent. While it may not have the same level of refinement as some of the high-end custom skiffs on the market, it's a durable and reliable boat that should provide years of trouble-free service with proper care.

The Verdict

The Angler Bay 181 Tunnel Skiff DLX is a versatile and capable boat that excels in a variety of fishing scenarios. It's built tough, handles beautifully, and is packed with features that serious anglers will appreciate. If you're in the market for a do-it-all fishing boat that doesn't compromise on comfort or performance, the 181 DLX deserves a very close look. It offers excellent value for the money and is a great option for anyone looking for a well-rounded inshore fishing machine.

Read the Full Review » July 7, 2025 - Matt L