Inflatable boats control differently to conventional crafts. They sit on top of the water which can cause them to skate around on the surface with poorly timed rowing strokes or when dealing with wind. They are less affected by water currents, however, as they ride over them to a greater degree.
One failing of several inflatables is in the oarlocks. Being placed on the inflatable pontoons causes them to compress into the boat itself under excessive power – limiting the amount of force that can be efficiently applied to rowing strokes. As the row locks are commonly plastic, they are also more prone to breakage. Rotational locks are much better for sustained use than those that don’t move with the oar.
Boats fitted with motors control quite well under power. The better ones have extended pontoons beyond the transom to give better tracking and stability under the weight of the motor. The lightweight and high-riding profile of inflatable fishing boats means that a small motor will push them well and use minimal fuel to get around.