How Fishing Boat Outriggers Work Fishing boat outriggers are essentially long poles, also referred to as antennas, that are installed on both sides of your boat to hold fishing lines. With a system involving pulleys and clips, they allow you to operate your fishing lines, reeling them in and releasing them as and when necessary. What Materials Are Outriggers Made From? Most fishing boat outriggers are made from one of two different materials, carbon fiber, and aluminum. While aluminum has been a long-time staple, carbon fiber outriggers are gaining popularity. Carbon fiber outriggers are preferred by many experienced and professional sport fishermen because they are incredibly lightweight, strong, and durable. The other advantage of carbon fiber outriggers is they offer greater protection against rust and corrosion.