Fly Fishing

Uncharted – History of Hell’s Bay Boatworks

May 2, 2026May 2, 2026

Legendary angler Flip Pallot shares the history of Hell’s Bay Boatworks and the shallow-water skiffs that helped define a way of fishing. This video replaces our original 2015 YouTube upload, which developed audio damage over time. We restored it from our library so this story can continue to be heard the way it was meant to be.

There are voices in this sport that shaped everything we do today—and Flip Pallot is one of them.

This is more than a video. It’s a piece of history. Flip walks through the story behind Hell’s Bay—how shallow water, curiosity, and a refusal to accept limits led to a completely different way of fishing. A way that so many of us now take for granted.

He wasn’t just a fisherman—he was a storyteller, a teacher, and one of the people who defined what modern flats fishing looks like today.

If you care about:

• Where technical poling skiffs came from

• Why shallow water changed everything

• The mindset behind true exploration… this one is worth your time. Flip had a way of making you think about fishing—and life—a little differently. Watch it. Take something from it. And then go find your own water.

Looking for new builds? Compare our flats skiffs lineup by clicking here:

We start by sitting down and talking through the essentials—where you fish, who you fish with, and how you like to do it. Side or center console? Tiller? Fly or bait? Every angler and guide have their preferences, and that’s exactly how we build them. Together, we design a boat that fits your style, your needs, and your waters. Then we craft a vessel that’s purpose-built for the way you fish.

Give us a call or stop by—we’ll help you get started on your next Hell’s Bay the World’s Finest Shallow Water Skiffs!

Guide – Michael Garcia

May 1, 2026May 1, 2026

Breast Cancer Awareness Shirt

March 26, 2026March 26, 2026

Cancer, like it has for so many, has touched our Hell’s Bay Boatworks family personally.

The Hell’s Bay Breast Cancer Awareness Shirt is a simple way to show support while helping make a real difference. Created in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it stands for strength, hope, and continued progress in the fight against breast cancer. Even better, 100% of proceeds are donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, making it more than just a shirt. It is purpose-driven gear that matters year-round.

Whether you order one for yourself or for someone you love, you are helping support a cause that touches far too many lives!

Learn more and order yours by clicking here:

Brest Cancer Awareness T-shirt with a skiff running at sunset

Looking for new builds? Compare our flats skiffs lineup by clicking here:

WE DON’T TAKE ORDERS , WE HAVE CONVERSATIONS:

Give us a call or stop by—we’ll help you get started on your next Hell’s Bay the World’s Finest Shallow Water Skiffs! Search for:

Hell’s Bay Console Caddy

January 22, 2026May 31, 2026

The team over on Flats Nation posted a review of the Hell’s Bay Console Caddy and covered several features and benefits of this space saving product that we (like many over the years) have developed. You may enjoy reading over their review by clicking Here:

We also feel their final impression on our product was quite interesting…

“The Hell’s Bay Console Caddy is a thoughtful addition for skiff owners who value organization and efficiency. Its design reflects the quality and attention to detail which is synonymous with Hell’s Bay Boatworks. And while it may not be universally compatible with all/your boat model, for Hell’s Bay skiff owners, it’s a worthy investment to enhance your boating experience while saving on space and (now where are my keys again?) time simultaneously! Well, let’s just say it will, after you start using it…”

Mounted Hells Bay Console Caddy with keys and items placed in it.

If you would like to pick up one for your present or new Hell’s Bay Skiff which use that same lock assembly. Just click here or visit our online Store for this space saving idea and other official Hell’s Bay products, accessories, and clothing items!

Hells Bay Tarpon Flag Shirt found in our Store

WE ARE NOT A FACTORY, WE ARE A BOATWORKS:

We have no assembly line.
A boat doesn’t go into the mold until an owner has told us exactly how they would like it, and our craftsmen carefully bring it to reality at every step of the build process.
Each one is custom built to a singular standard.

To be a Hell’s Bay skiff means to be handcrafted to tolerances unlike any other boat. It’s made for the long haul, in fact, we are our own worst competition- A used Hell’s Bay skiff (if you can find one) is still a better boat than most.

WE DON’T TAKE ORDERS , WE HAVE CONVERSATIONS:

Give us a call or stop by—we’ll help you get started on your next Hell’s Bay, the World’s Finest Shallow Water Skiffs!

2025 World’s Finest Skiff Raffle (Drawing Completed)

January 14, 2026March 19, 2026

We’re proud to partner with Captains For Clean Water once again, to support their mission of restoring and protecting Florida’s precious estuaries — and this year, we’ve built something truly special!

Introducing the Hells Bay Professional skiff raffled off to benefit clean water efforts across the state. Precision-built, ultra-shallow, and crafted with the same obsessive attention to detail that defines every Hells Bay — this skiff isn’t just a dream boat, it’s a statement.

This year’s Hell’s Bay Professional giveaway skiff sports a classic Orvis-inspired (Battenkill) vintage green-and-cream finish, complete with a custom AquaTraction floor kit.

It’s rigged with a Mercury 60R motor, Power Pole Pro II, Simrad electronics, Ram-Lin Trailer, Stiffy push pole, and all the gear you need to chase Redfish in the Low country or Tarpon in the Keys—including four Orvis Helios D fly rods, a full YETI kit, a Turtlebox speaker, and a $1,000 Costa gift card.

Runner up Prize Packages

Okay, so not everyone can win the skiff that enters, but we also have some awesome packages for the Runner’s up!

Two runner-up packages are up for grabs, featuring gear from YETI, Costa, Turtlebox, AFTCO, Columbia, Marsh Wear, Pelagic, Free Fly, Duck Camp, and more…

So, support the fight for clean water and give yourself a shot at this one-of-a-kind skiff (Entries are now closed)

DRAWING DETAILS:

DRAWING DATE: SUNDAY, JANUARY 11, 2026
DRAWING TIME: 5:30PM EST
LOCATION: STREAMING LIVE ON Facebook & Instagram FROM BACKYARD SOCIAL IN FT. MYERS, FLORIDA
WINNER NEED NOT BE PRESENT TO WIN, BUT ALL ARE WELCOME TO JOIN US FOR THE PARTY!

The lucky winner of our 2025 World’s Finest Skiff Giveaway was… Seth Moore of Augusta, Georgia! Congratulations Seth, and enjoy your new Hell’s Bay Skiff!

And a big shout-out to our two runner-up winners: Gary O of St. Petersburg and Cheri Wong of Maxwell!

THANK YOU to everyone who entered this year’s giveaway. Whether you won or not, every dollar raised goes directly toward restoring and protecting Florida’s waters for generations to come...

Looking for our new builds? Compare our flats skiffs lineup by clicking here:

Hell’s Bay build options for 2026

October 27, 2025May 14, 2026

Check below for the list of available 2026 build options for your next Hell’s Bay Skiff or Bay Boat. From lighting and hardware to console upgrades, jack plates, trolling motors, trailers, and more, these options help tailor your build to the way you fish.

Lighting Options:

Under Gunnel (Cockpit) Lights – Red, White, or Blue
Locker Lights (Red, White, or Blue)
Option – Light – LED – Underwater – Blue
Casting Platform Mounted LED Light Bar- 6″
Poling Tower Mounted LED Flood Light- Low Profile
Option – Light – Livewell – LED – White

Hardware:

4.5″ Flush Pull Up Cleat
6″ Flush Pull Up Cleat
Casting Platform Package – Oversize
Casting Platform Package – Standard Size
CP Tie down only, Thru-bolt, Eyebolt, Installed
CP Complete Hardware Only and Install
Keyed Hatch Pulls
Poling Tower – Fold Down Front Step w/Backrest
Poling Tower – Big Foot Step
Poling Tower – Oversize
Option – Rod Holder – Adjustable Clamp On – Stainless Steel
Poling Tower / Casting Platform – Sissy Bar – Anodized
Powder Coat Hardware Package
Aft Locker Drains

Cup Holders:

Cup Holder – LED (Aft Bulkhead)
Cup Holder/Drain -Stainless Steel
Yeti – Cup Holder – Stainless Steel
Cup Holder/Drain -Stainless Steel on SWIVEL

Console Options:

Over Top Console Grab Rail (1 piece)
Over Top Console Grab Rail (3 piece)
Grab Handle – 12″
Grab Handle – 9″
Rod Holder – Aluminum – 2 Rod
Rod Holder – Aluminum – 3 Rod
Rope Wrap – Steering Wheel
Hardware – Hook Pull
Tilt Helm
Side Console Extension (Front Porch)
Power Outlet – 12 Volt
Fast Charging USB Port Dual
Console Caddy

Jack Plate Options:

Jack Plate – Atlas – Hydraulic
Jack Plate -Bob’s Action Series, includes extra step on poling tower
Jack Plate – Atlas Micro – Installed
Tunnel Package with Hydraulic Jack Plate

Power-Pole Options:

Trailer Options:

Swing Tongue and other options found here.
Blackout Trailer and Rims (appearance upgrade)

Trolling Motor Options:

Minn Kota Ulterra 36v/60′ Shaft (i-Pilot)
12v Minn Kota Terrova (i-Pilot)
24v – Minn Kota Riptide Maxxum Bow Mount Saltwater Trolling Motor
24v – Minn Kota Terrova (i-Pilot) – 80ST/IP 54′
Power-Pole Move 52″ 24/36V
Power-Pole Move 72″ 24/36V
Lithium Ion Trolling Motor Battery Upgrade (12v)
Installed Power Pux
Plug Thru Deck – Gas Cap Style

Battery Chargers:

3 Bank Charger w/ Crank
2 Bank Charger w/ Crank
1 Bank Battery Charger
Power-Pole CHARGE System (pending engine alternator output)

Miscellaneous Options:

Gelcoat Match Inside Storage Compartments
Marine EVA foam – Reel Pads w/ HB Logo
Option – Tibor Holder and Install
Option – Livewell – Air System – B15 Power Bubble
Option – Livewell – Recirculating Pump
Roll On Keel Guard
Aft Rod Tube
Clear Livewell Hatch Insert (Marquesa only)
Upgrade to Gas Shocks
Additional Bilge Pump
Upgrade – Bolt on cushions
Upgraded Upholstery – Silicone
JL Audio 2 Speaker System w/ Bluetooth
2 Tone Color Scheme (non-skid & slicks)

Planning your color combination? View or download the Awlgrip color card below to review available finish options.

Cap:

Hull:

Awlgrip color card Download

Ready to plan your Hell’s Bay build?
Print this page, circle your must-haves, and jot down notes for your dream Skiff or Bay Boat. You can also download our customer build options checklist and mark your selections before your build conversation.

Download the 2026 Build Options Checklist

Then contact us — we’ll help you get started on your next Hell’s Bay, the World’s Finest Shallow Water Skiffs.

In Memoriam of Flip Pallot: by Chris Peterson

September 29, 2025February 18, 2026

Shallow Water Angler is a publication dedicated to inshore saltwater fishing, covering a wide range of topics relevant to anglers. It features articles, photo essays, and insights into fishing culture from Texas to Maine.

If you would like to pick up a copy of the latest Shallow Water Angler or a digital version for your iPad or IPhone just click here or on the cover picture below that includes this article on Flip, as well as other targeted content for the Shallow Water Angler from Florida Sportsman Magazine.

And here in Flip’s own unique words, is the History of Hell’s Bay Boatworks…

WE DON’T TAKE ORDERS , WE HAVE CONVERSATIONS:

The process of becoming a Hell’s Bay member doesn’t begin with an order form, it begins with a conversation…

Give us a call or stop by—we’ll help you get started on your next Hell’s Bay, the World’s Finest Shallow Water Skiffs!

BTT to Honor Conservation Leaders

September 16, 2025April 13, 2026

Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) will honor conservation leaders Jeff Harkavy, Tim Borski and Chris and Wendi Peterson of Hell’s Bay Boatworks at the organization’s 8th International Science Symposium on Nov. 7-8 2025 at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina.

Chris and Wendi Peterson, owners of Hell’s Bay Boatworks, will receive the Flats Stewardship Award in recognition of their efforts to safeguard fisheries. As a leading boat maker, Hell’s Bay has long been an ardent supporter of marine conservation, donating to BTT, Captains for Clean Water and the Coastal Conservation Association. Through their work with these organizations, the Peterson’s have become deeply involved in water policy-making.

Wendi and Chris Peterson of Hell's Bay Boatworks

Chris served for more than a decade on the BTT board of directors, and Wendi is a board member for Captains for Clean Water. In 2020, Chris was appointed to the St. Johns River Water Management District board, helping to develop water policies that affect more than five million people living in 18 counties. He has also advocated for healthy waterways before the Florida Legislature and the U.S. Congress.

“Jeff, Tim, Chris and Wendi are remarkable leaders in the conservation of our flats fisheries,” BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie said. “The impact of their many contributions, individually and collectively, is evident in our progress to improve water quality, conserve coastal habitats and ensure effective fishery management, while their unwavering commitment to the cause has inspired countless other anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to become involved in our mission.”

As BTT award recipients, Harkavy, Borski, and the Peterson’s will be enshrined on the BTT Circle of Honor, which recognizes legendary anglers, fishing guides, and conservation leaders who have made significant contributions to the conservation of the flats fishery. The Circle of Honor is housed in the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, located in Islamorada, Florida, and features an annually rotating exhibit about those honored as well as educational content about the significance of the flats fishery.

To register for BTT’s 8th International Science Symposium, visit: www.BTT.org/symposium.

Click on the picture above to learn more about Bonefish and Tarpon Trust.

Guide – Barkley Daniel

June 14, 2025May 1, 2026

Lodge Edition Skiffs

May 23, 2025May 27, 2026

Hell’s Bay Lodge Edition Skiffs for Guides and Lodges

Lodge Edition Skiffs from Hell’s Bay are guide-ready shallow water skiff packages built for fishing lodges, professional guides, and anglers who need a comfortable platform for multiple people. Optimized for the guide and guests, the Lodge Edition package adds practical fishing features, seating options, rod storage, and trailer support to many Hell’s Bay skiff models.

What the Lodge Edition Skiff Package Includes:

Built to The Highest Industry Standards: ISO 12215‑5
Carbon Innegra ™ hull
Vacuum-Infused Core Cell ™ construction throughout entire structure.
Carbon fiber stringer system.
100% Vinyl ester resin.
Sealed milspec switches.
Marine EVA foam reel pads in cockpit.
Deck mounted push pole holders.
Rod racks w/fly rod tubes for rods.
Anodized poling platform Marine EVA foam decking.
Automatic bilge pump.
12V AGM marine battery with on/off switch.
Electric trim tab system.
23 gallon aluminum baffled powder coated gas tank (pending model selected)
Plumbed livewell with pump and overflow drain.
Heavy duty rub rail.
Quiet & dry hatches with rubber gaskets.
Easy clean non-skid deck.
Coffin box with two Tempress removable chairs with cushions (bench seat options also available)

HB Lodge Edition with optional bench seat. — HB Lodge Edition with optional bench seat and bow lean/support bar.

Hell's Bay Lodge Edition skiff with options — HB Lodge Edition with other available seating, forward elevated casting deck and support options shown.

Hell's Bay Lodge Edition skiffs with optional tiller outboards — HB Lodge Edition with optional tiller outboards.

We can also equip them with custom fit trailers with the following:

Custom aluminum trailer with spare tire, LED lighting and custom walkboard.

Fleet of Hell's Bay Lodge Editions ready to roll out to their destination. — Fleet of HB Lodge Editions ready to roll out to their new home.

Chico hooked up on a Hell's Bay Lodge Edition skiff.

A SKIFF FOR THOSE WITH HIGH EXPECTATIONS AND A LOW TOLERANCE FOR COMPROMISE!

We Don’t Take Orders — We Have Conversations:

* We have no assembly line.

* A boat doesn’t go into the mold until an owner has told us exactly how they would like it, and our craftsmen carefully bring it to reality at every step of the build process.

* Each one is custom built to a singular standard.

* It fits your style, your needs, and your waters. Then we craft a vessel that’s purpose-built for the way you fish.

Give us a call or stop by—we’ll help you get started on your next Hell’s Bay, the World’s Finest Shallow Water Skiffs!

Click here to download the Lodge Edition PDF

Tag: Fly Fishing

Guide – Steve Hall

Guide – Ben Whalley

Uncharted – History of Hell’s Bay Boatworks

Guide – Michael Garcia

Breast Cancer Awareness Shirt

Hell’s Bay Console Caddy

WE ARE NOT A FACTORY, WE ARE A BOATWORKS:

WE DON’T TAKE ORDERS , WE HAVE CONVERSATIONS:

2025 World’s Finest Skiff Raffle (Drawing Completed)

DRAWING DETAILS:

Hell’s Bay build options for 2026

Lighting Options:

Hardware:

Cup Holders:

Console Options:

Jack Plate Options:

Power-Pole Options:

Trailer Options:

Trolling Motor Options:

Battery Chargers:

Miscellaneous Options:

Ready to plan your Hell’s Bay build?
Print this page, circle your must-haves, and jot down notes for your dream Skiff or Bay Boat. You can also download our customer build options checklist and mark your selections before your build conversation.

In Memoriam of Flip Pallot: by Chris Peterson

BTT to Honor Conservation Leaders

Guide – Barkley Daniel

Lodge Edition Skiffs

Hell’s Bay Lodge Edition Skiffs for Guides and Lodges

What the Lodge Edition Skiff Package Includes:

We can also equip them with custom fit trailers with the following:

A SKIFF FOR THOSE WITH HIGH EXPECTATIONS AND A LOW TOLERANCE FOR COMPROMISE!

We Don’t Take Orders — We Have Conversations:

Guide – Alvin Dedeaux

Guide – Danielle Davidson

Guide – Quinton Destout

Guide – Justin Melin

Guide – Allen Cain

Guide – T J Saunders

Guide – Billy Rotne

Guide – Jeff Legutki

WE ARE NOT A FACTORY, WE ARE A BOATWORKS:

WE DON’T TAKE ORDERS , WE HAVE CONVERSATIONS:

DRAWING DETAILS:

Lighting Options:

Hardware:

Cup Holders:

Console Options:

Jack Plate Options:

Power-Pole Options:

Trailer Options:

Trolling Motor Options:

Battery Chargers:

Miscellaneous Options:

Ready to plan your Hell’s Bay build?Print this page, circle your must-haves, and jot down notes for your dream Skiff or Bay Boat. You can also download our customer build options checklist and mark your selections before your build conversation.

Hell’s Bay Lodge Edition Skiffs for Guides and Lodges

What the Lodge Edition Skiff Package Includes:

We can also equip them with custom fit trailers with the following:

A SKIFF FOR THOSE WITH HIGH EXPECTATIONS AND A LOW TOLERANCE FOR COMPROMISE!

We Don’t Take Orders — We Have Conversations:

Ready to plan your Hell’s Bay build?
Print this page, circle your must-haves, and jot down notes for your dream Skiff or Bay Boat. You can also download our customer build options checklist and mark your selections before your build conversation.