Which Ketch Bump Board Is Right for You?
The 2025 Angler’s Guide to Choosing the Best Fish Measuring Board
What Is a Bump Board?
A bump board is a specialized tool used primarily in fishing to measure the length of a fish accurately. It typically consists of a flat, durable board with a raised “bump” or stop at one end where the fish’s nose is placed, and a measuring scale marked along the length of the board. This design ensures precise measurements by providing a fixed starting point. Bump boards are often made of materials like polycarbonate or aluminum to withstand water and harsh conditions. They are popular among anglers, especially in catch-and-release fishing or tournaments, to measure fish safely without removing their protective slime coat. Examples include the Ketch X, Ketch Karbonate and The Original Ketch Board.
Why Precision Matters
Measuring fish accurately isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s the difference between prize money and disqualification, a legal catch or a fine. Ketch boards are built for:
- 📏 Industry-leading measurement accuracy
- 💪 Tournament-ready durability
- 🧲 No-flex photo proof of your catch
- 🇺🇸 100% American manufacturing
🎥 Watch: Ketch CEO Duke Weskamp explains board selection
(Alt text: Duke Weskamp explains Ketch board use and choosing the right board)
Ketch Board Comparison Chart
| Board | Lengths | Best For | Saltwater Safe | Tournament Legal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Karbonate | 16″, 26″, 32″ | Bass, Saltwater, Panfish | ✅ | ✅ (not all events) |
| Ketch X | 26″, 32″ | Bass, Inshore | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ketch X 40″ | 40″ | Snakehead, Bowfin | ✅ | ✅ |
| OG Aluminum | 16″, 26″, 32″ | Bass, Panfish | ❌ | ✅ |
| Folding 48″ | 48″ | Walleye, Catfish | ❌ | Some |
| Folding 64″ | 64″ | Musky, Saltwater | ✅ (rinse after) | Some |
| Scientific Board | 400mm / 800mm | Research / Fisheries | Varies | ❌ |
| Metric Board | 80cm | International Use | ✅ | ❌ |
📌 Always verify tournament requirements. Some restrict plastic boards or require specific colors.
Board Selection by Species
Bass: 26″ or 32″ Ketch X or Karbonate
Saltwater Inshore: 32″ Karbonate or Ketch X
Saltwater Offshore: Folding 64″ or 32″ Karbonate
Crappie & Panfish: 16″ Karbonate or OG
Trout/Walleye: 32″ OG, Karbonate, or X
Catfish: Folding 48″
Musky: Folding 64″ (Big Game Approved)
Tournament vs. Casual Use
| Use Case | Recommended Boards | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Tournament | Ketch X, OG, Karbonate | Engravable, rigid, ultra-accurate |
| Casual | 16″ and Long boards | More portable or multi-species friendly |
✅ Tip: Always tether your board. They don’t float.
Saltwater Safety Guide
| Board | Saltwater Ready? | Care |
|---|---|---|
| Karbonate | ✅ Best choice | Rinse after use |
| Ketch X | ✅ | Rinse recommended |
| Folding 64″ | ✅ | Must rinse thoroughly |
| OG / Folding 48″ | ❌ | Powder coat degrades in salt |
Specialty Boards: Scientific & Metric
- Scientific Board: Ideal for research, hatcheries, biologists. Not legal in tournaments.
- Metric Board: For international use with cm markings. Rugged, but not U.S. tournament-compliant.
Folding vs. Fixed
| Style | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Folding | Travel, big species | Packs smaller | Slightly less rigid |
| Fixed | Tournament, bass | Rigid, reliable | Harder to store |
Custom Engraving Options
Add your name, club logo, or angler ID to select:
- ✅ Ketch X Boards
- ✅ Original Ketch Boards
- ❌ Limited Edition boards that already have engraving can’t be engraved further
- ❌ Karbonate & Folding boards are not engravable.
See All Engravable Boards At This Link
Regional Recommendations
- TX/FL/LA: 32″ Karbonate or 32″ Ketch X
- Midwest/Ozarks: 26″ Karbonate or 26″ OG, or 26″ Ketch X for Bass
- Midwest/Ozarks: 32″ Karbonate or 32″ Ketch X or for Walleye
- Coast/Gulf of America: 32″ Karbonate for Redfish and mixed species
- Great Lakes/Canada: Folding 64″ for Musky;
- Great Lakes/Canada: 32″ Ketch X or 32″ Karbonate Walleye and mixed species
- Great Lakes/Canada: Folding 48″ or Folding 64″ for Musky and Pike
- PNW/Northeast: 26″ Ketch X or 26″ Karbonate or 26″ OG for Bass
- PNW/Northeast: 32″ Ketch X or 32″ Karbonate for Walleye
How to Use a Ketch Bump Board
- Wet the board to protect the fish’s slime coat ***Pro Tip, wet the board only about as far up as the body of the fish goes on the board, not all the way to the fin part of the tail, this will prevent glare on the board from the water at the tail to see the numbers and markings better***
- Keep the board in the shade if possible to keep it cool
- Place the fish with nose against the bump mouth closed
- Make sure the dorsal fin is facing away from, with the belly of the fish facing you.
- Fan or pinch the tail for maximum length (some tournament’s don’t allow pinching the tail)
- Take a several photos to ensure you get a clear photo
📸 Make sure the numbers and bump are fully visible for tournament judging! Also consult your rules, as some don’t allow tail pinching, or may allow mouth open for examples.
Top 3 Most Popular Ketch Boards
- 32″ Karbonate – The saltwater-ready favorite
- 26″ Ketch X – Tournament bass kayak anglers weapon of choice
- 16″ Karbonate – Perfect for panfish anglers
Customer Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This is the best board I’ve ever used. Durable, precise, and legal everywhere I fish.”
– Allen S., KBF Angler
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Compared to the Hawg Trough, Ketch boards are next level. No flex. No question.”
– Dana B., Kayak Tournament Fisherman
FAQ
Do Ketch boards float?
No. Use a leash/tether to secure your board.
Can I engrave a Karbonate?
No. Only select Ketch X and OG Boards are engravable. (click here to view engravable boards)
Which boards are saltwater safe?
Karbonate is the best option for Saltwater, but Ketch X, and Folding 64″ boards are fine (with rinsing after use).
Why avoid OG in saltwater?
Powder coating breaks down with salt exposure so we do not recommend OG boards for saltwater use.
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes, on all Ketch Boards shipped within the Lower 48 have free shipping. NOTE: Even if you combine other products in your cart it all ships free if you have a board in the cart.
Most beginner-friendly option?
26″ Karbonate. Lightweight, versatile, and tournament-legal.
How accurate are they?
Exceptionally. They’re the standard for most major kayak fishing series and the most accurate fish measuring boards in the world.
Where are Ketch Boards Made?
Everything Ketch Makes is 100% Made in the USA!
Related Articles and Videos
- How to Clean & Maintain Your Ketch Board
- How to Choose a fish Measuring Board for Tournament and Recreational Use
- Custom Engraving Inspiration Gallery
- Bump Board Accessories Explained
Conclusion: Fish Smarter. Measure with Confidence.
The right bump board isn’t just gear, it’s your competitive edge. Whether you’re chasing giants or just trying to stay legal, Ketch boards deliver the accuracy, durability, and reputation trusted by champions.
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