The Model Breakdown

Once you've nailed down the Hull Profile that fits your local rivers and specific fishing program, the next step is to determine which model brings your dream boat to life.

We have been busy over the past few years developing new offerings and configurations (and fishing) and before we knew it we've developed some new boat models and configurations without a formal introduction and overview. We've also learned that our current models cause some confusion amongst owners, guides, and damn near everyone so we've developed a clearer strategy to hopefully make the boats as unique as their name.

The Open Angling Rig (O.A.R.) Model

The Open Angling Rig (O.A.R.) Model (F.K.A. Walkthrough): Traditional Soul, Modern Utility

The River Skiff Open Angling Rig (OAR) is the ultimate in open floor plan utility, designed for maximum stability and 360-degree fishability, excelling on both rivers and stillwater. Built upon the River Skiff hull, the OAR features a full "walk-through" design where the traditional oarsman bench is replaced with a hand-welded, dedicated dry box seat. This innovation, combined with the walkaround front angler position (like the Confluence), creates a completely open interior, allowing anglers to move seamlessly from bow to stern.

The OAR maximizes functionality with two large, flat rod trays—one on each side—offering unparalleled storage and rigging space. This model provides the added real estate and open flexibility that makes it the premier choice for efficient fishing on lakes, reservoirs, and complex river systems.

Construction & Materials

The O.A.R. is built upon our most stable hull—the River Skiff—utilizing a strategic blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern utility. It retains the iconic White Ash gunnels, bow/stern transom plates, and the craftsmanship of our front and rear casting braces that define the Boulder look, but utilizes structural aluminum bracing to achieve its completely open floor plan.

  • Marine Grade Polymer Hull: Constructed from our signature high-impact "Starboard" material, the hull is naturally buoyant, dead-quiet on the drift, and virtually indestructible against rocks and gravel.
  • Hand-Welded Aluminum Oarsman Box: Instead of a structural wood bench, the rower sits on a custom-welded aluminum dry box that provides secure storage while allowing for a complete walkthrough on both the port and starboard sides.
  • Structural Aluminum Bracing: High-strength aluminum cross-members replace traditional wooden ribs in key areas, maintaining the boat's rigid integrity while keeping the floor clear of obstructions.
  • Dual Rod Tray Functionality: The open bow grants us the ability to equip the OAR with substantial flat space and a safe haven for your fly fishing outfits with the ability to hold up to an 11 foot rod.

Why Choose the O.A.R.?

You should choose the O.A.R. if stability and interior real estate are your top priorities. This is the model for the angler who refuses to be confined to a seat and for the guide who needs to move effortlessly from the oars to the net without hurdles. It is the premier choice for stillwater fly fishing, technical "sight-and-cast" scenarios, and gear-heavy expeditions where every square inch of floor space counts. If you want the most "fishable" boat in our fleet, the O.A.R. is your rig.

The O.A.R. Overview - Highlights & Details

  • Full Walkaround Functionality

    Replacing the oarsman bench with a hand-welded dry box seat, the OAR model layout enables seamless movement throughout the entire boat without stepping over any benches.

  • Dual-Side Rod Trays

    Equipped with oversized rod trays on both the port and starboard sides, this model offers the most rod storage real estate in our lineup. These trays not only protect your fly rods but also serve as expansive flat surfaces for organizing tackle, prepping rigs, or staging gear.

  • Versatile Layout

    The ability to swap out front coolers based on the day's needs makes this the most adaptable boat for those who switch between half-day trips and multi-day overnight trips. With the loop and strap system various sized coolers (from Yeti 35 to 65) can be swapped in a mettr of minutes.

  • Spacious Gear & Dog Real Estate

    With the removal of interior benches, the O.A.R. provides a massive amount of "flat-floor" space for coolers, gear bags, or large boat dogs. It is the most hospitable boat for man's best friend, ensuring your pup has a dedicated spot to lay down without being underfoot or in the way of the fly line.

  • Maximized Stability & Fishability

    While it excels on the river, the O.A.R. is a game-changer for lakes and reservoirs where anglers often need to move around the boat to follow cruising fish. The wide bottom and long wet line of the River Skiff hull combined with the open floor plan allows for a stable, 360-degree casting radius that traditional dories can't match.

  • The Stealth Advantage

    The River Skiff O.A.R. features an ultra-low freeboard, providing the oarsman with surgical sightlines while drastically reducing wind drag for a stable, pinned drift on open water. This sleek, low-entry design allows anglers to cast and net fish with ease making it the premier choice for technical, wind-prone fisheries.

Explore More Boat Models

Hull Profiles Available in The O.A.R. Model

  • River Skiff

    The River Skiff Open Angling Rig (OAR) is the ultimate expression of open floor plan utility, designed for maximum maneuverability and 360-degree fishability, excelling on both technical rivers and stillwater. Built upon the nimble River Skiff hull, the OAR features a full "walk-through" design where the traditional oarsman bench is replaced with a hand-welded, dedicated dry box seat. This innovation, combined with the walkaround front angler position (like the Confluence), creates a completely open interior, allowing anglers to move seamlessly from bow to stern. The OAR maximizes functionality with two large, flat rod trays—one on each side—offering unparalleled storage and rigging real estate. This model provides the added real estate and open flexibility that makes it the premier choice for efficient fishing on lakes, reservoirs, and complex river systems.

    Build Your Open Angling Rig 

See How We Craft Your Ultimate Drift Boat.

Our drift boats combine tireless man-hours of woodworking love with the technology of advanced plastics to create works of art that are hardy, durable, and guaranteed for life.

Our skilled craftsman cut, weld, and scrape a polymer hull by hand with scraping tools to produce one of the toughest, best looking boats on the river. Then, interior components are made by hand right here in Carbondale, CO. The result of our relentless attention to detail is the world’s ultimate drift boat.