Introduction:
The small, narrow boat used by Inuits for fishing is called a kayak. A kayak is a traditional Inuit vessel that has been used for thousands of years for hunting and transportation in the Arctic regions.

Explanation:
1. Origin and Design:
- The Inuit people, who live in the Arctic regions, developed the kayak as a means of transportation and hunting on the water.
- The word "kayak" comes from the Inuit language, where it means "hunter's boat."
- The design of a kayak is well-suited for the Inuit way of life. It is small and narrow, allowing for easy maneuverability in icy waters.
- The boat is typically made from a wooden frame covered in animal skins, such as sealskin.
- The animal skin covering makes the kayak lightweight and flexible, allowing it to glide smoothly through the water.

2. Purpose and Use:
- The primary purpose of a kayak is for fishing and hunting.
- Inuits use the kayak to silently approach their prey, such as fish or marine mammals, without scaring them away.
- The narrow design of the kayak allows it to navigate through narrow waterways, such as fjords and rivers, which may be inaccessible to larger boats.
- Inuits also use the kayak for transportation, as it is lightweight and easy to paddle.
- The kayak has been an essential tool for survival in the harsh Arctic environment, providing the Inuit people with a means to catch food and travel long distances.

3. Features:
- A typical kayak has a closed cockpit, where the paddler sits inside the boat.
- The paddler uses a double-bladed paddle to propel the kayak forward.
- The cockpit is covered with a spray skirt to prevent water from entering the boat.
- Some modern kayaks have additional features such as storage compartments and rudders for better control.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the small, narrow boat used by Inuits for fishing is called a kayak. The kayak is a traditional vessel that has been used by the Inuit people for hunting, transportation, and survival in the Arctic regions. Its design, purpose, and features make it a practical and effective tool for navigating icy waters and approaching prey silently.