Which Fish Measuring Board Do I Choose?
As anglers, there will always be an opportunity where you'll want to verify the length of your catch. Whether you're trying to meet the legal length for a mess of crappie, logging your latest kicker largemouth during a kayak tournament, or when you want to prove to your buddies that you did, in fact, catch a bluegill the size of a dinner plate. There are a lot of great Fish Measuring Boards on the market that will help you log and verify the length of your catch, but do you know which one will fit your specific needs and budget? Let's look at some of your options.
The Hawg Trough Measuring Board was created with the kayak angler in mind. It provides a convenient, lightweight, and affordable measuring option for kayak tournaments. The Hawg Trough is the original measuring board that was featured in many kayak bass tournaments. Each board is pre-lined, easy to read, lightweight, floats, and easy on the wallet.
The measurements start at 8" and read up to 30" in 1/4" increments, providing an easy view for CPR (Catch. Photo. Release). Each Hawg Trough is created utilizing injection-molded, high-impact polystyrene with a UV protector for a lightweight construction. Each board floats using foam inserts. For added strength and flotation, the Hawg Trough is also available with dowel rods to enhance the rigidity of your board. Simply put, the Hawg Trough provides easy-to-identify measurements in a lightweight, affordable package.
Learn more about the Fishing Online Hawg Trough HERE!
Cost: $21.99-$29.99
Material: Hi-vis yellow, injection-molded, high-impact polystyrene with UV Protector
Features: Pre-lined measurements. Holes at each end for tethering. Floating with dowel rod option for added strength. Options to include a Tourneytag for tournament anglers.
Measurement: Measures from 8"-30" in 1/4" increments
Portability: Standard weighs just 10.7oz. Dowel weighs 13.1oz
Durability: The ultra-lightweight construction comes at a cost for overall durability, only being able to withstand light use and abuse.
Tournament Compliance: Not compliant with Bassmaster Kayak Series, Hobie BOS, or KBF tournament trails. Check with your local club or trail for compliance.
Ketch Karbonate Measuring Board
The Ketch Karbonate Measuring Board is a lightweight and durable board that meets the needs of a wide variety of anglers. The Karbonate bridged the gap between the ultra-lightweight construction of the Hawg Trough and the super durable and dense construction of the Ketch X. Whether you're a kayak angler needing a board that is approved across virtually all trails and circuits (be sure to verify with your organization to confirm) or the traveling angler that wants a lightweight board that will withstand the use and abuse of an angler on the move. With various boards available in 16", 26", and 32", the Karbonate accommodates tournament anglers and anglers looking to meet a slot size.
The Karbonate utilizes durable, lightweight, and UV-resistant polycarbonate. Its yellow coating and blue 1/4" measurements provide easy visuals. At the same time, the board's deep cradled design ensures your catch lies flat and still for longer, providing ample opportunity to photograph and verify your catch. Whether you're a hardcore kayak angler or walking the banks, you won't find a better blend of lightweight, durable construction and affordability than the Ketch Karbonate.
Kayak anglers, don't forget your Ketch Keeper or Ketch ID for easy mounting and tournament identification.
Cost: $29.99-$49.99
Material: Yellow, polycarbonate material with UV-resistant coating
Features: Stamped on measurements. Built-in cradle. Tether holes on both ends. 100% Made in the USA.
Measurement: Three sizes- 16", 26", 32". Measurements start at 5" and increase in 1/4" increments.
Portability: 16" weighs approximately 10 oz. 26" weighs 1.2 lbs (19.2 oz). 32" weighs 1.7 lbs (27.2 oz).
Durability: Built for rugged use without the added weight. Overall, it is a durable and lightweight board. The edges and back may be susceptible to damage as these are the flimsier areas of the board.
Tournament Compliance: Compliant with Bassmaster Kayak Series, Hobie BOS, KBF, and many regional and local tournament trails. Always check with your organization to confirm.
Ketch X Board
If you're looking for a durable and reliable measuring board that can also be used for self-defense, the Ketch X has you covered! There is no way to put it; the Ketch X is one of the most complete measuring boards available. The anodized aluminum board is rugged, reliable, and built for the tournament angler, providing a no-hassle design with engraved measurements and a large cradle.
The Ketch X Board is not light, with the 26" weighing approximately 3.3 lbs and the 32" weighing 3.6 lbs, meaning this board does not float. However, the purpose of this design is for durability and stability. Whether the Ketch X is in your boat or kayak, the board's weight ensures it's not slipping or sliding while you photograph your catch. With the Ketch X available in four colors, you can find a board that is easier for you to read and matches your vessel. If you want longevity and durability, there is no other way to go than the Ketch X.
Don't forget your Ketch Keeper for easy mounting on your vessel or the Ketch ID for easy tournament identification in your next CPR event.
Cost: $69.99-$74.99
Material: Extracted aluminum with an anodized finish. Corrosion resistant from fresh and saltwater.
Features: Laser engraved measurements. Built-in cradle. CNC machined tether holes on both ends. 100% Made in the USA. Four color options.
Measurement: Two sizes- 26" and 32". Measurements start at 1" and increase in 1/4" increments.
Portability: 26" weighs 3.3 lbs (52.8 oz). 32" weighs 3.6 lbs (57.6 oz).
Durability: The standard for rugged and reliable measuring boards. Overall, this board will not break or bend and will last a lifetime. The only drawback would be the overall weight of the board.
Tournament Compliance: Compliant with Bassmaster Kayak Series, Hobie BOS, KBF, and many regional and local tournament trails. Always check with your organization to confirm.
YakAttack LeaderBoard Fish Measuring Board
Just when you thought, what else could a fish measuring board offer besides what's already available? The YakAttack LeaderBoard has found a way with next-level engineering and design. The LeaderBoard is a 28" measuring board constructed of durable polyethylene, giving anglers a lightweight and durable board that floats utilizing EVA foam laid on the board's underside. The oversized design offers anglers a large, structured cradle accommodating even larger catches. By weighing in at 2.4 lbs, measurements start at 1" and increase at 1/4" increments; this board excels all the basic needs of a measuring board.
What sets the LeaderBoard apart are the newest features, such as the Culling Tabs. These three culling tabs slide along the board, giving you a reference point for your recent catches and making you proficient during any catch, photo, or release tournament. Built right into the LeaderBoard is an Integrated Tournament ID Holder. This holder features dual flip-out holders to hold your tournament IDs, allowing you to quickly deploy and stow your ID, providing a great view while logging your catch. Lastly, the LeaderBoard features a DoubleTake Visual Indicator; simply put, this is a mirror located on the bump of the board that will help eliminate the gap between the fish's nose and the vertical fence, meaning you are provided with the most accurate measurement and eliminating any potential doubt or debate when placed in a tournament scenario.
The YakAttack LeaderBoard is the tournament anglers' dream measuring board. It meets the standards of other boards by offering a reliable, floating board but utilizes the features others don't have to help enhance your tournament experience. Plus, shop for additional LeaderBoard Accessories Here!
International anglers, don't forget about the 71cm Metric Board!
Cost: $59.95
Material: Marine-grade UV-stabilized polymers
Features: Culling Tabs. Integrated Tournament ID Holder. DoubleTake Visual Indicator. EVA inlay for flotation. Large built-in cradle. Tether hole. Made in the USA. Four color options.
Measurement: One size - 28". Measurements start at 1" and increase in 1/4" increments.
Portability: 28" weighs 2.4 lbs (38.4 oz)
Durability: Built for the tournament angler to provide a durable floating board that can handle everyday use and abuse on the tournament trail. While loaded with features, the board feels a bit clunky and less sleek in design.
Tournament Compliance: Compliant with Bassmaster Kayak Series, Hobie BOS, KBF, and many regional and local tournament trails. Always check with your organization to confirm. Click HERE to view the growing approval list.
- Stan Miketa