The Evolution of Shallow Water Skiffs

The modern technical poling skiff has come a long way from its roots. Originally designed as small, lightweight fishing boats for duck hunters and backwater anglers, skiffs were built for one purpose: to get shallow. Over the years, these boats have evolved into performance machines — balancing stealth in inches of water with speed and range for long days on the flats.

Today’s skiffs are versatile enough for both saltwater fishing and freshwater fishing. Anglers now expect their skiff to perform not only as a poling platform but also as a reliable ride across bays and open lakes. The demand for features like jack plates, center consoles, and durable composite construction has pushed builders like Rabco to innovate. Modern skiffs are lighter, faster, and more durable than ever before.

At Rabco, we take pride in being part of that evolution. From our 14’ technical skiff designed for stealthy poling, to our 16’ – 28’ center console fishing boats built for serious anglers, every model reflects decades of shallow-water expertise. Want to learn more about the skiff lifestyle? Explore our lineup at RabcoMarine.com and see how we’re shaping the next generation of performance skiffs.