Jake Rodriguez
Gear tester and product reviewer with a focus on SUP fishing equipment and accessories.
The BOTE Rover Aero has been one of the most anticipated inflatable fishing SUPs of 2025. With its promise of hard-board stability in a portable package, we put it through 60 days of rigorous real-world testing to see if it delivers.
First Impressions
Out of the bag, the build quality is immediately apparent. The military-grade PVC construction feels bombproof, and the included hand pump inflates the board to a rock-solid 15 PSI in about 8 minutes. The board measures 12 feet 4 inches by 36 inches — a generous platform for fishing.
Stability Testing
This is where the Rover Aero truly shines. At 36 inches wide with a flat rocker profile, it feels remarkably stable even when standing and casting. We tested it with a combined gear load of 45 pounds (cooler, tackle, rods, anchor system) and the board barely noticed. Side-to-side stability when fighting fish was excellent — we landed a 30-inch snook without any balance concerns.
Fishing Features
BOTE included four Rac Receiver mounting points, two flush-mount rod holders, a front deck pad with tie-downs, and a rear cargo area with bungee system. The Magnepod system is a standout feature — magnetic drink holders and accessory mounts that snap into place anywhere on the deck. We added a fish finder mount and a tackle tray using the Rac system with zero drilling required.
On-Water Performance
Tracking is good for an inflatable, thanks to the removable center fin and two smaller side fins. In a 10-knot crosswind, the board held its line reasonably well with consistent paddle strokes. Top paddling speed was around 3.5 mph — not a speed demon, but adequate for reaching fishing spots within a mile or two of the launch.
Durability Notes
After 60 days of use including dragging over oyster bars, bumping dock pilings, and general rough handling, the board shows minimal wear. One small scuff on the rail from an oyster shell, but no punctures or air loss. The deck pad has held up well with no peeling or discoloration.
The Verdict
At $1,599, the BOTE Rover Aero is not cheap, but it delivers on its promises. For anglers who need portability without sacrificing fishing functionality, this is currently the best inflatable fishing SUP on the market. The stability alone makes it worth the investment for serious SUP anglers.
Rating: 4.7/5
Best for: Traveling anglers, apartment dwellers, and anyone who needs a fishing SUP that fits in a car trunk.