The Quirky Classic that Stole the Show - The Penn Yan Goose

In the world of vintage boats, some are remembered for their speed, others for their luxury, but the Penn Yan Goose? It’s remembered for its personality. The Goose, as fans affectionately call it, wasn’t your typical watercraft. Designed with utility, stability, and a touch of whimsy, this flat-bottomed boat became a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, duck hunters, and lake-drifters who just wanted something practical, dependable, and a little different.

Odd Name, Serious Utility

Despite its funny name, the Goose was all business on the water. With a broad, stable hull and shallow draft, it could glide through marshes, creeks, and backwater channels where most boats would struggle. It was the ultimate go-anywhere vessel, ideal for fishing trips, waterfowl hunting, or just a peaceful paddle through the reeds.

Built the Penn Yan Way

Like all Penn Yan boats, the Goose was crafted with care and built to last. Early versions were made of wood, but later models incorporated fiberglass for greater durability and easier maintenance. Though it didn’t boast the sleek lines of a Captivator or the horsepower of a Sport Fisherman, the Goose had its own quiet confidence, reliable, rugged, and ready to go. And thanks to Penn Yan’s signature design principles, even this humble utility boat featured smart construction that made it stand out from other workboats of its time.

Still Honking Along

Even decades after Penn Yan closed its doors in 2001, Gooses (Geese?) are still out there. You might spot one tucked away in a boathouse, drifting silently along a pond, or getting passed down through generations as a family treasure. Vintage lovers know: once you’ve had a Goose, you don’t forget it.