The gold standard in inflatable fishing SUPs
Serious anglers who want a dedicated fishing platform with maximum stability and gear capacity
6 photos of the BOTE Rackham Aero 12’4″
The BOTE Rackham Aero has earned its reputation as the gold standard in inflatable fishing SUPs, and after extensive on-water testing across Florida flats, coastal bays, and protected inshore waters, we understand why. This board was designed from the ground up for anglers who demand a stable, gear-ready platform without sacrificing the portability that makes inflatables so appealing.
At 36 inches wide, the Rackham Aero delivers stability that rivals many hard-shell boards. During our testing, we stood, cast, fought fish, and managed gear without a single moment of instability — even in light chop and crosswind conditions. The wide platform distributes weight evenly, and the drop-stitch construction inflates to a rigid 15 PSI that eliminates the flex you feel on cheaper inflatables. Tracking is solid thanks to the tri-fin setup, though the width does create more drag than narrower touring designs. Expect to work a bit harder on longer paddles to your fishing spot.
This is what separates the Rackham from every other inflatable on the market. The Rac receiver system lets you snap in rod holders, a cooler mount, a tackle management system, or even a kayak seat in seconds — no tools, no permanent modifications. We tested the dual rod holder setup and the Kula cooler mount extensively, and both locked in securely with zero wobble. The modularity means you can configure the board differently for every trip. Heading to the flats for redfish? Rod holders and a small tackle tray. Offshore for a longer session? Add the cooler and a full crate system. The downside is cost — each Rac accessory runs $50 to $200, and a fully kitted setup can add $400 or more to the base price.
BOTE uses military-grade PVC with reinforced seams and a thick deck pad that handles the abuse of fishing gear, hooks, and saltwater exposure. Over four months of regular use, we dragged the board over oyster bars, bumped dock pilings, and dropped pliers and tackle on the deck. The result: minor cosmetic scuffs but zero structural damage. The included rolling bag is a nice touch — it protects the board during transport and makes getting from the car to the water much easier than a standard backpack bag.
The BOTE Rackham Aero is the board we recommend most for dedicated SUP anglers. Its combination of rock-solid stability, the modular Rac receiver system, and military-grade construction creates a fishing platform that inspires confidence on every trip. The premium price is justified by the quality and versatility — this is a board you will keep for years. If you are serious about fishing from a paddleboard and want the best inflatable option available, the Rackham Aero is the clear choice.
3 reviews from verified owners
I guide in the Florida Keys and needed something I could throw in a truck bed deflated and inflate at the ramp. This board pumps up firm in about ten minutes and paddles surprisingly well for its width. I have dragged it over oyster bars, bumped mangrove roots, and dropped pliers on the deck — zero damage. My clients love the stability. If you fish saltwater flats, this is the one.
I upgraded from a basic all-rounder and the difference is night and day. The 36-inch width means I can stand and cast all day without worrying about balance. The Rac receiver system is genius — I snap in two rod holders and a cooler mount in under a minute. Took it out on Tampa Bay flats and landed three redfish on the first trip. Worth every penny if you are serious about SUP fishing.
As a 130-pound woman, this board feels like standing on a dock. Stability is absolutely unreal. I fish the Charleston harbor flats regularly and it handles light chop with no issues. My only gripe is the price — once you add the Rac accessories you actually need, you are well over two thousand dollars. The board itself is a 5 out of 5, but the total cost of ownership knocks it down a point for me.
See how the Rackham Aero 12’4″ stacks up against other fishing SUPs
Common questions about the Rackham Aero 12’4″ for fishing
Explore our buying guide, compare boards side-by-side, or check out our rigging guide to set up your new board for fishing.
Continue building your surfboard fishing knowledge with these guides
Everything beginners need to start fishing from a surfboard or SUP safely and successfully
Essential PFD requirements, emergency self-rescue, and risk management for paddleboard anglers
Step-by-step rod holder mounting, tackle storage, and gear placement for fishing SUPs
Coiled vs straight leash comparison, quick-release mechanisms, and emergency procedures
Anchor types, deployment methods, and safety rules to hold position over productive spots
Assess wind direction, tide phases, swell height, and seasonal patterns for safer fishing