Buying 1st Aluminum Boat (20k Budget)....Help 2024
DieselInc reply :
Hey, I have been fishing since a little kid and have always used a kayak or a canoe to get around the local ponds to fish.I am now finished college and have saved up some cash to get my 1st "REAL" boat. With buying a new house and student loans my budget for a boat is 20k. All i can seem to find is Tracker 175s for under that price but i have heard that they arent the greatest boats and have horrible service and lots of problems.I looked up ranger,skeeter and a few others and either they are way more money or i cant seem to find pricing. Are there any other boats under 20k that offer more bang for the buck?If anyone has any info or knowledge of other boats that would be better I would greatly appreciate it.
Bluebasser86 reply :
Does it have to be new? Mine was 3 years old with 8 hours on it when I bought it, for about half of retail, which was a few thousand under your max price range. It's a fiberglass boat though if you're dead set on tin.
livemusic reply :
There are plenty of boats under $20k, brand new. If you want larger or something higher end, you will need to buy used. This is a 'project' that you will need to take your time. As in... search, search, search, read, read, read. For used, Craigslist is an easy source, just be careful, there are some scams. If I were you, buying a first boat, I would probably buy used to get your feet wet with owning a boat. And I would spend less than $10k, there are tons of boats less than that. To allow you to get your feet wet. If it doesn't work, sell it, get another. In a few years, you could buy new.
Bear in mind that once you buy one, you will have additional expenditures to make it your own liking, and the extra could be pretty significant money, so, allow for it.
I have missed out on a couple of good used buys lately on Craigslist that I delayed on making a deal. Good deals are out there but you need to take your time. As in, months.
DieselInc reply :
On 3/16/2016 at 5:33 PM, Bluebasser86 said:Does it have to be new? Mine was 3 years old with 8 hours on it when I bought it, for about half of retail, which was a few thousand under your max price range. It's a fiberglass boat though if you're dead set on tin.
It doesnt have to be aluminum i just found them cheaper.I have been driving my uncles bass cat for the past 5 years so i am pretty used to driving/maintaining a boat thanks to him and I have looked on craigslist but in my area (Mass) I cant seem to find anything.All the boats seem old.I would definitely not be opposed to the kind of deal you got as long as the boat was in great shape with low hours.
On 3/16/2016 at 5:36 PM, livemusic said:There are plenty of boats under $20k, brand new. If you want larger or something higher end, you will need to buy used. This is a 'project' that you will need to take your time. As in... search, search, search, read, read, read. For used, Craigslist is an easy source, just be careful, there are some scams. If I were you, buying a first boat, I would probably buy used to get your feet wet with owning a boat. And I would spend less than $10k, there are tons of boats less than that. To allow you to get your feet wet. If it doesn't work, sell it, get another. In a few years, you could buy new.
Bear in mind that once you buy one, you will have additional expenditures to make it your own liking, and the extra could be pretty significant money, so, allow for it.
I have missed out on a couple of good used buys lately on Craigslist that I delayed on making a deal. Good deals are out there but you need to take your time. As in, months.
I have been looking on CL but NOTHING in my area.I plan on taking my time, Thanks
livemusic reply :
You are in Massachusetts... hmmm. I see. In my area, CL is loaded with boats, from junk to very high end bassboats and everything between.
Master Bait'r reply :
Heck for $20k you can set your sights a little higher!
Check the Western Mass pages, I remember seeing a sick '04 bass cat for like 18k.
Catt reply :
2016 Xpress Hyper Lift Seriet H17
length: 17' bottom: 67" beam: 88"
max hp: 90 hp
H17 boat, Yamaha F70LA, trailer
MSRP $18,975
Brand new & you to rig your way!
Gotfishyfingers? reply :
For 20k, I would be buying a much better boat than a tracker 175. Unless your dead set on Aluminum, i would look into a fiberglass like others suggested..
Fishes in trees reply :
Granted, it was number of years ago, but I paid way less for my LOWE wf 180 new. Don't be afraid to go national in your search. A few years ago a buddy of mine had a mid-life crisis that could only be resolved by purchasing a new 20'Express. He found a dealer in Tenesse who was considerably less expensive than any dealer here in Missouri - including the road trip and motel stay. With your other obligations, you'll be in this boat for a while, so buy one you like. I don't hate trackers - I think they are ok boats - but I think that there are better boats out there for a similar amount. I am assuming that you have or have access to indoor storage. Storing any boat outside with a tarp over it isn't a good idea.
DieselInc reply :
On 3/16/2016 at 9:26 PM, Catt said:2016 Xpress Hyper Lift Seriet H17
length: 17' bottom: 67" beam: 88"
max hp: 90 hp
H17 boat, Yamaha F70LA, trailer
MSRP $18,975
Brand new & you to rig your way!
I am unfamiliar with xpress boats. Are they a good brand...90hp is much better than a 60hp that the tracker comes with....im gonna have to look into that....thanks.....and to all others who asked if i am set on alum....NO i am not i just have a budget right now...sucks but it is what it is.I have looked on CL in my area and cant find anything...so i am taking my time on my search...thanks everyone for your input.
Gotfishyfingers? reply :
Have you checked out Ebay or Boat trader?
Catt reply :
On 3/17/2016 at 4:15 AM, DieselInc said:I am unfamiliar with xpress boats. Are they a good brand...90hp is much better than a 60hp that the tracker comes with....im gonna have to look into that....thanks.....and to all others who asked if i am set on alum....NO i am not i just have a budget right now...sucks but it is what it is.I have looked on CL in my area and cant find anything...so i am taking my time on my search...thanks everyone for your input.
Xpress Hype Lift Hulls will run with fiberglass hulls.
Jeff Browning reply :
I too was on a budget, wanted soemthing decent, that I could resell when I wanted to upgrade and here is what I did....
Bought a 2008 175TXW w/ 50 hp for $7000, fished it for a year to see how much I'd really use it; got hooked on the sport!!
Upgraded to a Humminbird 1199 si (bow) $1299, 899 si (console) $500, 70# trolling motor $600, Humminbird 360 transom mount $900, added the other battery for 24v, adjusted the motor and had all componenets installed for about $800 for a total of ~ $4300.
My plan was to upgrade to a new or slightly used bigger boat, but I fish mostly by myself and will start tournamants this year with a co-angler (local club) but when I compared apples to apples...sure I could have upgraded to the 75hp Merc for another $8000...
My point is, that if you buy a used/new boat and you want to change anything you're into more money. So get what you want or think you want when you buy it and/or leave room in the budget for gadgets which you will most likely want at some point. I had the old black and white depth finders...
If I could figure put how to load pics I'd show her off a little. But it says I can only upload 153k...
My .02
Jeff
FlipSide reply :
Look for a used Xpress X-19 if you want more HP and to still have the durability of a tin
Further North reply :
I bought this (2005 Crestlner CMV 1850)
http://s189.photobucket.com/user/groznak/library/2005%20Crestliner%20CMV?sort=3&page=1
...two seasons ago with 3 1/2 hours on the motor for $16,250.
I had my own electronics, so that helped...swapped them with the old stuff on the boat and hit the water.
Boats like this and the one BLuebasser86 bought are out there, you just have to put your time in and look for them...and when you find them, be ready to plop cash on the table fast...they won't last long.
Regarding Craigslist in Massachusetts...if it's anything like NW WI where I live, the boat sales ads will perk up considerably in the next month or so and stay that way through at least early fall. Gotta get the ice thinning a little more before folks start getting a hankering for a new rig and look to sell their existing rig.
DieselInc reply :
On 3/17/2016 at 4:22 AM, Gotfishyfingers? said:Have you checked out Ebay or Boat trader?
im wary of ebay. I checked out boattrader but it was all trackers at the local bass pro pretty much. Gonna check out the xpress site now.
Further North reply :
Xpress are great boats...Almost bought one right before I found my CMV.
DieselInc reply :
I just checked the xpress website and the closest dealer is 4 hours away...FML
gimruis reply :
What about a Crestliner VT17 or a Lowe Stinger 175? They're both under $17k brand new so you'd have a couple thousand for upgrades. I don't know how much a G3 is but they also make smaller tin bass boats under $20k.
DieselInc reply :
On 3/17/2016 at 8:16 AM, gimruis said:What about a Crestliner VT17 or a Lowe Stinger 175? They're both under $17k brand new so you'd have a couple thousand for upgrades. I don't know how much a G3 is but they also make smaller tin bass boats under $20k.
Are they comparable in size to the tracker 175txw...ill have to look into them.Thanks
gimruis reply :
Yes, they are. Similar size motors, options, etc.
fishnkamp reply :
Hey I did about 5 minutes of looking on Craigslist Massachusetts. There are about 5 different boards under craigslist Mass. In that time I found a nice 2002 Triton for $11000. It has a Yamaha VMAX150 on it. Here is the link
http://worcester.craigslist.org/boa/5492801532.html
I also found a 2004 Bass Cat Cougar FTD dual console ( passenger console removable) with a Merc Opti 225Hp for $18000. That boat looked awesome. Here is the link http://westernmass.craigslist.org/boa/5483019868.html. It was on the Western Mass board, it says it is Agawam/Feeding Hills.
To find the perfect boat for your needs may require a little research. You may have to look within a 1 to 2 hour circle around you. Also if you want to look new check out Lowe and Triton aluminum boats. I run a 2010 Lowe Stinger 170 and fish on tidal Chesapeake bay, lakes in VA, MD. Tennessee and Kentucky. These two boat companies can probably give you a floor plan that works for you. Here is a picture of my present boat. It is the 11th boat I have owned during 40 years of fishing. This Lowe and a 20 foot ProKraft with a 200 hp Merc EFI were the only two ordered new. This boat is 17 foot 6 inches long and has a 75 Merc outboard. It runs around 40 mph and has almost as much storage as my 20 footer did.
cgolf reply :
We went the new boat route a few years back, instead of potentially buying someone else's money pit. To fit our budget we went with a 16ft alumacraft and couldn't be happier. I do agree that setting aside money for extras is important. Upgraded depth finders including on the bow, I had to bump up to an 80lb trolling motor along with an onboard charger.
I did make a custom front deck giving up one seat position, but the boat fishes way better now, but might be a bit tight for some guys taste.
DieselInc reply :
On 3/17/2016 at 9:32 AM, fishnkamp said:Hey I did about 5 minutes of looking on Craigslist Massachusetts. There are about 5 different boards under craigslist Mass. In that time I found a nice 2002 Triton for $11000. It has a Yamaha VMAX150 on it. Here is the link
http://worcester.craigslist.org/boa/5492801532.html
I also found a 2004 Bass Cat Cougar FTD dual console ( passenger console removable) with a Merc Opti 225Hp for $18000. That boat looked awesome. Here is the link http://westernmass.craigslist.org/boa/5483019868.html. It was on the Western Mass board, it says it is Agawam/Feeding Hills.
To find the perfect boat for your needs may require a little research. You may have to look within a 1 to 2 hour circle around you. Also if you want to look new check out Lowe and Triton aluminum boats. I run a 2010 Lowe Stinger 170 and fish on tidal Chesapeake bay, lakes in VA, MD. Tennessee and Kentucky. These two boat companies can probably give you a floor plan that works for you. Here is a picture of my present boat. It is the 11th boat I have owned during 40 years of fishing. This Lowe and a 20 foot ProKraft with a 200 hp Merc EFI were the only two ordered new. This boat is 17 foot 6 inches long and has a 75 Merc outboard. It runs around 40 mph and has almost as much storage as my 20 footer did.
Thanks bud, i saw those but they looked older and like cgolf said i am weary about buying someone elses problems.I am going to go to the local cabelas and check out their selection of Lowe, Ranger and Alumacraft. I had already planned to upgrade the deck, trolling motor, batteries and fishfinder so being able to work all that within the budget is gonna be the tough part.I appreciate all the feeback guys.Helping me out alot.
Jeff Browning reply :
When it comes to updrages...be patient, I got the 1199 on sale online, the 899 at Cebela's (in store) the manager said he'd honor the prior sale price (it never hurts to ask) and the 360 from Field and Stream (on sale too). Sometimes the brick and moartar stores have awesome sales too.
How the heck are youo guys posting pics?
If I was looking to upgrade I'd love the BCB in the ad. Those are nice boats!!
Junk Fisherman reply :
On 3/16/2016 at 10:31 PM, Gotfishyfingers? said:For 20k, I would be buying a much better boat than a tracker 175. Unless your dead set on Aluminum, i would look into a fiberglass like others suggested..
Agreed. I'd shop for a used fiberglass boat. You'll get a lot more boat and it's a much better economical decision as well. Just make sure you educate yourself as to what to look for in a used boat and how to get the engine inspected.
carlm01 reply :
Check out Lunds they're a quality boat ................. Good Luck
Josh_Bovaird reply :
have you guys used www.searchtempest.com to search craigslist? Its so much easier you can go in a mile radius instead of town.
J._Bricker reply :
On 3/17/2016 at 9:32 AM, fishnkamp said:Hey I did about 5 minutes of looking on Craigslist Massachusetts. There are about 5 different boards under craigslist Mass. In that time I found a nice 2002 Triton for $11000. It has a Yamaha VMAX150 on it. Here is the link
http://worcester.craigslist.org/boa/5492801532.html
I also found a 2004 Bass Cat Cougar FTD dual console ( passenger console removable) with a Merc Opti 225Hp for $18000. That boat looked awesome. Here is the link http://westernmass.craigslist.org/boa/5483019868.html. It was on the Western Mass board, it says it is Agawam/Feeding Hills.
To find the perfect boat for your needs may require a little research. You may have to look within a 1 to 2 hour circle around you. Also if you want to look new check out Lowe and Triton aluminum boats. I run a 2010 Lowe Stinger 170 and fish on tidal Chesapeake bay, lakes in VA, MD. Tennessee and Kentucky. These two boat companies can probably give you a floor plan that works for you. Here is a picture of my present boat. It is the 11th boat I have owned during 40 years of fishing. This Lowe and a 20 foot ProKraft with a 200 hp Merc EFI were the only two ordered new. This boat is 17 foot 6 inches long and has a 75 Merc outboard. It runs around 40 mph and has almost as much storage as my 20 footer did.
Diesellnc, as mentioned, take your time and research the boat brands and models you're interested in buying. In looking boats attached to the two links, the Triton has a lien held by his bank that the seller doesn't know the amount....?
DieselInc reply :
Hey guys, i went to cabelas today...they had a stratos for 19,900 he was willing to take 1000 off but it only had a 60hp on it...going to check out a ranger tomorrow at a local dealer.....trying to find the best way to keep it under 20 with being able to add all the upgrades..research and look i guess....ive got some work to do haha.
GetBent reply :
Don't get a smaller motor to fit your budget. You will regret it.
fishnkamp reply :
Hey Jeff. I do not know how others do it, but do a yahoo search for Photobucket. Set up a free account. I did this for another board The Bass College. Once I upload my pictures to my account I can look in my library. I open one tab like this reply, write the body of text and then select the little box down below "Insert other media". Then choose "insert image from URL. I then open another tab in my browser, go to Photobucket, select my library, then scroll down to the picture I want. Below each picture is four links for that picture (e-mail, direct, HTML, and IMG.)
I highlight the "direct" address and chose copy. Go back here and paste that link inside the the box and click insert. I know it sounds complicated but it is not. Also I use that account to add pictures here, on The Bass College, Ebay almost any website. It becomes simple. if you want to add more then just click over to the other tab, highlight another link and do it again.
Dieselinc Here is a picture of the boat with the Merc 25 hp I originally set the boat up to fish a hp restricted lake. But a boat like mine needs very little upgrades and should easily fit in your budget with a 50 to 75 hp engine. Here the boat sits on Dale Hollow, a 60 mile long lake in Tennessee/ Kentucky. I added two gps/fish finders, an electric anchor, upgraded to 24 volt 70 pound MK, added a 2 bank charger and a few other goodies. A package like this would still fit in your budget if purchased new. Good Luck shopping.
Gotfishyfingers? reply :
On 3/18/2016 at 8:44 AM, GetBent said:Don't get a smaller motor to fit your budget. You will regret it.
x2
DieselInc reply :
On 3/18/2016 at 8:44 AM, GetBent said:Don't get a smaller motor to fit your budget. You will regret it.
Ive been driving my uncles ranger with a 250 on it...trust me i wont. That stratos was a sweet boat today the main reason i didnt go for it was the motor. My buddy put me on to a Nitro z6 last years model with a 115 on it with 1200 bucks in upgrades already no hours on it and the guy said he could let it go for 20k even...gonna take a look at that one.
On 3/18/2016 at 9:33 AM, fishnkamp said:Hey Jeff. I do not know how others do it, but do a yahoo search for Photobucket. Set up a free account. I did this for another board The Bass College. Once I upload my pictures to my account I can look in my library. I open one tab like this reply, write the body of text and then select the little box down below "Insert other media". Then choose "insert image from URL. I then open another tab in my browser, go to Photobucket, select my library, then scroll down to the picture I want. Below each picture is four links for that picture (e-mail, direct, HTML, and IMG.)
I highlight the "direct" address and chose copy. Go back here and paste that link inside the the box and click insert. I know it sounds complicated but it is not. Also I use that account to add pictures here, on The Bass College, Ebay almost any website. It becomes simple. if you want to add more then just click over to the other tab, highlight another link and do it again.
Dieselinc Here is a picture of the boat with the Merc 25 hp I originally set the boat up to fish a hp restricted lake. But a boat like mine needs very little upgrades and should easily fit in your budget with a 50 to 75 hp engine. Here the boat sits on Dale Hollow, a 60 mile long lake in Tennessee/ Kentucky. I added two gps/fish finders, an electric anchor, upgraded to 24 volt 70 pound MK, added a 2 bank charger and a few other goodies. A package like this would still fit in your budget if purchased new. Good Luck shopping.
Nice boat...i took a look at a few lowes today...they looked solid.So many boats/brands to look at i dont know where to start lol. Everywhere i went everyones trying to say i can get into a fiberglass for the same price and i should strongly consider that....The fiberglass really have a sweet look to them.We will see what happens haha.
Fishes in trees reply :
Something to consider if you fish stumpy lakes like I frequently do. My Lowe will bounce off or run up on a stump that would put a hold in many different fiberglass boats. Even if you run up on a stump, it is easier to back off one than it is to deal with cracked fiberglass. If you are playing with fiberglass around stumps, be very careful and don't have an attention lapse. That can get costly.
DieselInc reply :
So just a little update.I have been calling/seeing boats all week.Went to Basspro to look at trackers, was unimpressed with the pricing considering they seem to be considered a lower quality boat and ended up with it costing more than other boats i checked out with less options(60hp 21,875).They did say they offered 5 years on the motor which wasnt bad.Went to cabelas and looked at a Lowe stinger 175 but the price that they said they couldnt budge on was 21,500 with a 60hp.Found a G3 Eagle sportsman with a 70hp vinyl deck upgrade upgraded 70 thrust troller and garmin fishfinder for 19,700 with all that but its an hour drive which isnt so bad.Found an Xpress xp7 with a 70hp with sports package and vinyl deck upgrade as well as 70 thrust troller and upgraded lowrance elite 7 for 19,329 which i really like.Only problem is its 4 hours away.Dealer said they could drive it to me and meet me half way but im concerned with the closest dealer/marine technician being over 4 hours away.What do you guys think?
DieselInc reply :
Also found this....https://boston.craigslist.org/gbs/boa/5497009285.html
Guy has someone who put a deposit on it but he said he said its not final and i can take a look.
Slade House reply :
I own a tracker 175 , go with the xpress , trust me go with the xpress . best place to buy boats is in texas
Junk Fisherman reply :
I completely understand having a budget but you need to think big picture. How long are you going to have this boat? Are you going to be satisfied with it in 3 years? Spending a couple thousand more now, while it's over your budget, might make you much happier with the boat longer. I have seen so many people get a boat and then want to upgrade in a couple years. They then take a big hit in depreciation when they sell and end up losing thousands in the upgrade.
I speak from experience on this one. In my early 20s I bought both a truck and boat that I could easily afford and pay off but within a couple years, I was wanting more. I wish I had spent more on both. In your case, it might be best to either increase your budget or save and wait a year so you can get to an 18' 115 HP such as a Ranger RT188. You can get that boat in the mid to upper 20s and be set for a long time. I think there's a good chance you get some 17' 60 HP boat because it fits your budget now but in a couple years, you'll be wanting more. That boat is big step down from the glass Basscat you have been using. Just some words of advice from someone who has gone through it before. Good luck with your purchase.
Further North reply :
Regarding "...someone elses problems...": Good way to start thinking about it, and to be on the look out for.
That said, there's lots of reasons why boats get sold; not getting used (that's how I got mine), upgrade to bigger/better, some kind of problem in the family. You can pretty well tell by how the seller acts how well a boat has been treated...but caution is always a good thing. Have the boat checked out. Mine was one of those "too good to be true" deals...until I had it inspected at a marina of my choosing...and I found out it was exactly what the seller said it was: Virtually unused, 8 years old, stored in a garage it's entire life. Doo your "Due Diligence" Don't be afraid to check out the seller on line once you hove their name. Check Facebook, look for lawsuits, anything you can think of. It'll al give you insigt to the seller's character and help you get an idea how he treats his stuff.
I bought three in a row like that, sold two of them, and the folks that bought them didn't get any problems either.
On that Stratos: I went from a Lund PRO-V 1800 to a Crestliner 1750...and it was just a little bit too small for me. An 18+ ft. boat seems to be the sweet spot for me...20 is probably too big, 17 too small...My 1750 had a Suzuki 140 on it...it performed well...not sure a 115 would get it done for me...a friend has that same boat in an 18 footer...his has a 150...perfect for that size.
gimruis reply :
Based on the boats you've mentioned at this point, that xpress seems like the best option. 4 hours is a long ways to get service though. Is there a local marine service you could take it to instead if they allowed you to?
DieselInc reply :
On 3/20/2016 at 2:28 AM, gimruis said:Based on the boats you've mentioned at this point, that xpress seems like the best option. 4 hours is a long ways to get service though. Is there a local marine service you could take it to instead if they allowed you to?
They said any Yamaha dealer could service it,
Redlinerobert reply :
$20k I imagine will buy you a lot of aluminum boat, but like others have said look for a deal and I'm sure something will come up.
DieselInc reply :
Got a quote on a 16 ranger RT178C with a 75hp 70 thrust min kota vinyl deck upgraded fishfinder,and trailer for 19,200.Going to see it tomorrow!!
livemusic reply :
I would be very wary of buying 'only' a 16' boat. IMO, that is too short. As for me, I have come to the conclusion that 19' is about right for me. I have a 17' and it works, but I would prefer more length for storage, for floor space and I guess it would give a better ride in chop.
Catt reply :
On 3/21/2016 at 2:47 PM, DieselInc said:Got a quote on a 16 ranger RT178C with a 75hp 70 thrust min kota vinyl deck upgraded fishfinder,and trailer for 19,200.Going to see it tomorrow!!
That's good deal!
17' 8" with 92" with a 75 hp will handle anything you will want to fish.
Don't let anyone fool ya, if it's rough for this size boat ya don't need to be on the water!
DieselInc reply :
On 3/21/2016 at 8:57 PM, Catt said:That's good deal!
17' 8" with 92" with a 75 hp will handle anything you will want to fish.
Don't let anyone fool ya, if it's rough for this size boat ya don't need to be on the water!
Quote
Narrowed it down to the G3 Sportsman 17 and the Ranger RT178....Thoughts on the 2 brands? Most have said i cant go wrong with either. Interested in your opinions.
Catt reply :
On 3/23/2016 at 4:45 AM, DieselInc said:
Narrowed it down to the G3 Sportsman 17 and the Ranger RT178....Thoughts on the 2 brands? Most have said i cant go wrong with either. Interested in your opinions.
RT178 has 8' rod storage
Unless they changed the G3 has wooden decks
For the price Ranger quoted I would go with that.
slonezp reply :
On 3/23/2016 at 4:45 AM, DieselInc said:
Narrowed it down to the G3 Sportsman 17 and the Ranger RT178....Thoughts on the 2 brands? Most have said i cant go wrong with either. Interested in your opinions.
The G3 sits real low in the stern...real low
livemusic reply :
On 3/23/2016 at 7:38 AM, slonezp said:The G3 sits real low in the stern...real low
Why does that matter? (I don't know the answer, curious.)
Catt reply :
On 3/23/2016 at 7:46 PM, livemusic said:Why does that matter? (I don't know the answer, curious.)
When coming off plane & unless you're paying attention you will get back wash over the transom.
It is also possible in rough water to take waves over the transom
slonezp reply :
On 3/23/2016 at 7:46 PM, livemusic said:Why does that matter? (I don't know the answer, curious.)
What Catt said. During inclement weather and or big water it may pose a safety issue.
DieselInc reply :
On 3/21/2016 at 8:57 PM, Catt said:That's good deal!
17' 8" with 92" with a 75 hp will handle anything you will want to fish.
Don't let anyone fool ya, if it's rough for this size boat ya don't need to be on the water!
As far as the G3 sitting low in the stern, i asked the dealer today and he said that was the case with last years model the new model the sportsman 17 that issue has been fixed.
Catt reply :
On 3/24/2016 at 9:52 AM, DieselInc said:As far as the G3 sitting low in the stern, i asked the dealer today and he said that was the case with last years model the new model the sportsman 17 that issue has been fixed.
And how exactly did they "fix" it?
I don't see anything mentioned on their website, one would think they would be proud of that hull change!
DieselInc reply :
On 3/24/2016 at 10:09 AM, Catt said:And how exactly did they "fix" it?
I don't see anything mentioned on their website, one would think they would be proud of that hull change!
Not sure i asked him and he said it was a problem on older models.
livemusic reply :
On 3/24/2016 at 10:09 AM, Catt said:And how exactly did they "fix" it?
I don't see anything mentioned on their website, one would think they would be proud of that hull change!
I find it incredible that the G3 is/was designed so that its transom sits too low. How in the world can a company screw up like that? That seems really odd. As for them touting the 'new' change, I can see them not being vocal about that for liability issues with the previous design. Not wanting to admit that they screwed up. If that is, in fact, the case. I have no idea, I thought the G3 had a good reputation for a good design. There is no way a bass fisherman can guarantee he will never be in rough water unless he barely leaves the dock or only fishes narrow water bodies that can't get rough. That would be rare. Most of us will get caught from time to time by surprise winds.
Catt reply :
On 3/24/2016 at 11:00 PM, livemusic said:I find it incredible that the G3 is/was designed so that its transom sits too low. How in the world can a company screw up like that? That seems really odd. As for them touting the 'new' change, I can see them not being vocal about that for liability issues with the previous design. Not wanting to admit that they screwed up. If that is, in fact, the case. I have no idea, I thought the G3 had a good reputation for a good design. There is no way a bass fisherman can guarantee he will never be in rough water unless he barely leaves the dock or only fishes narrow water bodies that can't get rough. That would be rare. Most of us will get caught from time to time by surprise winds.
Quite a few bass boats sit low in back, it's mostly a problem if you don't pay attention & make the proper adjustments.
My Stratos sits low enough that when coming off plane to a stop that your wake will catch up & come over the transom. A quick goose of the throttle will move you forward stopping the wake from catching up.
It aint something new to boats 
DieselInc reply :
On 3/25/2016 at 1:40 AM, Catt said:Quite a few bass boats sit low in back, it's mostly a problem if you don't pay attention & make the proper adjustments.
My Stratos sits low enough that when coming off plane to a stop that your wake will catch up & come over the transom. A quick goose of the throttle will move you forward stopping the wake from catching up.
It aint something new to boats
+1
DieselInc reply :
Any necessity upgrades u guys recommend that are essential?
Catt reply :
On 3/26/2016 at 9:37 AM, DieselInc said:Any necessity upgrades u guys recommend that are essential?
Stainless Steel Prop!
DieselInc reply :
Thanks for all the help guys going with the Ranger 178c with a 75 yammy and all upgrades(Trailer,Stainless steel prop,70mk,vinyl flooring,auto bilge,seats) for 20,240.I was told i can change the fishfinders when i go in on thursday before i sign papers.I know I want one in console and one up front.Any thoughts on what a good setup would be.Favorite brands ?
Tim Kelly reply :
A pair of networked Helix 9 units would be a very good set up. Probably going to run you a couple of grand though for side imaging units.
gimruis reply :
I believe the Ranger 178 only has room for a 7 inch screen flush mount at the console so that would mean something like a Lowrance HDS7 series or comparable Humminbird Helix as Tim mentioned above. Lowrance is selling off their Elite 5's at a pretty steep discounts right now because they're discontinued and that would fit well into the console.
DieselInc reply :
i ended up getting a garmin stryker sv 7 inch for console and a garmin echomap 94sv 9 inch up front.
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