Skeeter Vs Nitro 2024
BostonMahhk reply :
Hey guys. Buying a bass boat and need some opinions and advice.
#1-- 2006 skeeter sx180 w/ 115hp mercury optimax. Low hours, extremely clean, stock fish finders, 70lb 24v minnkota, $10,500
#2--2005 nitro nx882 w/ 150hp Merc xr6, 8ft power pole, fixed jack plate, hydraulic steering upgrade, hummingbird 597ci, garmin 500c, 24v 75lb minnkota, boat had had a LOT more use than skeeter, carpets worn, all seats need to be replaced. $11,250
Both boats have on board chargers and hot foot pedals. Idk if skeeter is a better boat but I will be sacrificing the upgrades on the nitro for a newer boat In better condition with less hours. Can you guys please give me honest opinions and help direct me to the better choice? This will be my first boat and will have to consider the 2 strike vs the 4 stroke. Thanks guys
BostonMahhk reply :
I'm sorry. The skeeter had a 115hp Yamaha 4 stroke not a Merc optimax
tnriverluver reply :
Skeeter!!!!
BostonMahhk reply :
Can you explain why?
slonezp reply :
If the Skeeter is in better overall condition, why not? The Yammie 4 stroke is a very reliable motor. 115 on an 18' boat may be somewhat underpowered, but for a first boat, you'll want to have as little problems as you can. If the Nitro has been beat up pretty good you may want to pass. Either way, have a competent mechanic look at whichever boat you buy before you hand over the cash. If it cost you $100 to prevent a $10k mistake, it's well worth it.
tnriverluver reply :
On 11/24/2013 at 6:35 AM, BostonMahhk said:Can you explain why?
Just my personal opinion, but during those years I am sure Skeeter built a better quality boat than Nitro. With their latest offerings though they are much closer together.
Lewi reply :
Really I see this as a no brainier decision I have to say with what you state. Skeeter.
1).There are some appealing upgrades to the Nitro but I am curious to the care what was taken with it as the carpet and seats are in bad shape and that is something that I am VERY particular to.
2).The Skeeter is a fine boat and would be my hands down choice in the years you are looking even though the Nitro line in the last few years are very appealing...I would like personally a little more HP out of the Skeeter but you should be very satisfied with from what I have read a very reliable 115 Yamaha motor.
3). With the 2 & 4 stroke debate you may as well search here for that and other sites to decide what it is that you want. There are pros and differences (note I didn't say "cons") to these types of engines that may be more appealing from one to the next.
Can't wait to see what you get!
-Lewi
Hi Salenity reply :
Keep looking, the nitro's beat up and with the Skeeter you'll always want more HP.
BBD reply :
Buy the Nitro simply because it has a big motor on it, and it has a lot of useful options. But please post pics for us to see JUST HOW worn the carpet/seats are. If they're in extremely bad condition, pass on both of those boats and don't consider anything that's underpowered for the size/weight of the hull.
In my opinion, you'd be crazy to by an 18' Skeeter with a 115 on it. Repowering a boat can be expensive, so do this right the first go round. That Skeeter is going to be dog slow compared to the others who will show up to the tournament with REAL motors on the back doing 75+mph.
Now, if you don't plan on being a compettitive tourney guy, then the underpowered Skeeter may be the way to go, but as said earlier, the newer nitro lines are very good, and it has a decent sized motor for that hull
Long story short. If you're going to spend 10k+ on a glass boat, GET THE BIGGEST MOTOR YOU CAN AFFORD. I cannot stress that enough!!!!!
I think you'll regret getting an underpowered boat after spending a decent chunk of change like that when you can find properly powered boats for that money in great condition, especially since this is the time of year to buy a boat. Buying a new boat is alway exciting, but don't let that excitmenet blind the fact that YOU WILL WISH you hadn't had spent money for an underpowered boat.
tomustang reply :
Look out for the skeeter trailer, I've seen some (think they were ezloader) really messed up ones when I was looking for boats, some even had split/cracked rims because they mixed different alloys. Getting a new trailer could be as bad as getting a repower.
How's the wear on the nitro?
BostonMahhk reply :
BostonMahhk reply :
The nitro is 6 hrs away and the skeeter is 2 hrs away so it's kind of an issue to see before I buy and both are winterized and covered so I can't really test drive them either
tomustang reply :
Those carpets don't look bad at all, seats are ripped beyond repair.
If the guys want to sell their boats they better get them ready to run so you can test them.
BBD reply :
Get the Nitro. New seat covers and you'll be fine, but don't buy any boat without testing then in the water like WifeAlwaysWins said.
BUY THE NITRO. That Nitro should run about 60/65.
BostonMahhk reply :
I can get brand new seats for $380 and they told me they've meticulously maintained the boat and ALWAYS had it serviced and even more often than needed. They said what normally needed to be done every other year always got done every year and they've never had an issue with the engine. I know the Xr6 is one of mercury's best built engines. I've read nothing but great things about it. What actions can I take to ensure its in good condition with it being 6 hrs away?
slonezp reply :
Does he have copies of the maintenance records?
BostonMahhk reply :
He said he has most but not all because the original owner didn't keep them
BostonMahhk reply :
If go and run it myself but like I said, it's my first boat and I'm not sure what to listen for or look for
S Hovanec reply :
For me, it would be neither. The Skeeter is underpowered and the Nitro has a black motor hanging off of it.
Hi Salenity reply :
You need to have them to take it to a boat shop and have the compression checked and everything looked over. You will need to pay for this regardless if you buy it or not.
If it checks out go for it if you like the boat...
It's not a bad looking boat for the money but I'd look at the top cap and see if it's faded
The seats and carpet can easily be replaced but gellcoat is harder to fix
ksboy reply :
I would personally get the one with more options.
DON'T BUY ANY BOAT WITHOUT PUTTING IT IN THE WATER AND FISHING OUT OF IT. RUN THE MOTOR, USE THE TROLLING MOTOR, USE THE DEPTH FINDERS, THE LIVE WELLS, THE BILGE PUMPS, ANY OTHER ACCESSORIES. UNLOAD AND LOAD THE BOAT YOURSELF TO SEE HOW IT SITS ON THE TRAILER AND IF THERE ARE ANY ISSUES WITH LOADING/UNLOADING. $10-12 GRAND IS A LOT OF MONEY TO PUT OUT AND BE SURPRISED BY ADDITIONAL EXPENSES LATER. I KNOW IT'S COLD IN THE NORTHEAST BUT BELIEVE ME, DO IT NOW INSTEAD OF FINDING SOMETHING WRONG LATER.
Also, I didn't notice anyone mention the hydraulic steering. I think that's worth about $2000 maybe less if you do it yourself. The power pole is $1500.
Lots of $$$.
The four stroke motor on the Skeeter is a serious upgrade but it's a 115. An 18' boat normally has a 150. That would be a serious underpower issue I think.
Those are the things I would have consider if I was making this purchase.
Just my 2Cents worth.
BostonMahhk reply :
I've actually found a new contender lol
2008 nitro z6 w/ 135hp optimax w/ 55 hrs
24v 74lb Minnkota Maxum trollin motor that was just purchased 3 months ago
2 humminbird 898csi fish finders. 1 at console and 1 at bow
Humbly keel protector
Nitro ratchet style cover
All new batteries purchased 3 months ago as well
$12,500
BBD reply :
Please stop considering underpowered boats, please.
Hi Salenity reply :
That should run 55? That doesn't sound like a bad boat.
FishinDaddy reply :
Boat Buying 101.
Is the boat big enough for your current needs?
Is the boat powered close to the Max rating for the hull?
Does the boat look like it has been well maintained?
Wear on seats and carpet are good things. It mean the boat is used often and they are cheap to replace.
Electronics and other goodies are nice but are also cheap (relatively speaking) to upgrade.
If you don't answer YES to the first 3 questions, then keep looking. IF you find more than one boat with a yes, then it's just a personal choice.
tomustang reply :
Here's a vid of the NX882
I found the pics of that boat, it looks good, couldn't find the skeeters though.
slonezp reply :
On 11/25/2013 at 10:50 AM, BBD said:Please stop considering underpowered boats, please.
A 17ft with a 135 is not underpowered
BostonMahhk reply :
He said the boat comes very close to 60 on the gaps and yes it does have everything I need and more. As far as speed is concerned, I'd only need it for tourneys and although I'd like to start them this year, I don't care if I have the fastest boat or not. The engine don't catch fish and yes it may get you to a spot before the other guy, I'm sure they'll be fish in a different spot. I'm more concerned with the quality of the engine. I think all the opinions I've gotten have been excellent and I'm very grateful for them. However, the more I get, the more confused I'm getting. I have to keep up front that ultimately I can't please everyone by buying what they think is best and like TR said, I have to find what's best for me. I dint think 135 hp on a 17ft is underpowered at all. I'm sure plenty of people might but if I get this boat at the right price then im getting it
BBD reply :
You can get way more boat/motor for the 10/12k range.
slonezp reply :
On 11/25/2013 at 11:59 AM, BostonMahhk said:He said the boat comes very close to 60 on the gaps and yes it does have everything I need and more. As far as speed is concerned, I'd only need it for tourneys and although I'd like to start them this year, I don't care if I have the fastest boat or not. The engine don't catch fish and yes it may get you to a spot before the other guy, I'm sure they'll be fish in a different spot. I'm more concerned with the quality of the engine. I think all the opinions I've gotten have been excellent and I'm very grateful for them. However, the more I get, the more confused I'm getting. I have to keep up front that ultimately I can't please everyone by buying what they think is best and like TR said, I have to find what's best for me. I dint think 135 hp on a 17ft is underpowered at all. I'm sure plenty of people might but if I get this boat at the right price then im getting it
Don't worry about getting to the spot first.. When we talk about a boat being underpowered, it's not so much about speed. It's about hull performance and resale value. If you're plowing the hull thru the water, you're wasting fuel and losing performance. Make sure you have enough room for your gear, and a strong trolling motor. As you grow as a fisherman, your boat needs will grow as well. No need to jump in the fire just yet. I fished tourneys out of a 17ft with a 90hp for many years. Fish can't tell the difference.
BostonMahhk reply :
Oh ya? Then show me where it is and not a 1999 either. I'd rather a newer boat with no problems. I'm not looking for someone else's headache because it has a 200hp motor that I'll barely open up. The boat is $21,000 new and has an upgraded 24v system with an upgraded 75lb trolling motor and $3000 worth of upgraded electronic that are some of the best around. Also, it's my first experience with a boat. I don't need a 200hp engine. I would've liked a150hp but 135hp is not a giant difference and certainly not enough reason to turn down an almost new boat in very very good condition. I fish with a buddy that has a 90hp optimax and that serves the purpose just fine on an 18' 6" polarkraft. I'm confident 135 on a 17ft fiberglass will do the job since I'm not taking it to the drag way.
BostonMahhk reply :
Thank you Slone. I was under the impression that it was meant more towards the speed of the boat. I checked the specs and it says an 08 Z6 max hp is 130. Would they sell it with a 135 as an upgrade even though it's over spec?
slonezp reply :
Double check that. It will be very difficult to insure if the hull has too much motor.
slonezp reply :
Just googled and found your boat listed on another forum. The way it's listed, is kind of fishy. Looks like the guy recently bought the boat, and when asked why he's selling, his answer is "I just got an itch"
Here's a brand new '08 for 14k
http://www.midwaypowersports.com/Vehicle/46925/2008-Nitro-Z6-SC.aspx
http://www.midwaypowersports.com/Vehicle/46925/2008-Nitro-Z6-SC.aspx
BostonMahhk reply :
I asked him why he was selling it and he told me it was because of health issues. Where did you find it?
slonezp reply :
Pm'd you the link
S Hovanec reply :
On 11/25/2013 at 12:43 PM, BostonMahhk said:I checked the specs and it says an 08 Z6 max hp is 130. Would they sell it with a 135 as an upgrade even though it's over spec?
No they wouldn't. With an overpowered boat, insurance would be difficult to obtain. Also, that opens you up to a DQ in a tournament if you would be checked.
tomustang reply :
An 'itch' aye
slonezp reply :
On 11/26/2013 at 1:57 AM, tomustang said:An 'itch' aye
I would think an itchy eye is a health problem. When you have an itch you need to...
http://youtu.be/innygMNyKOY
Brian Needham reply :
on the Z6 check the USCG plate.........Tracker has some of them "re-rated" because of a lean issue.
The boat came stock with a 115 but many would lean pretty bad until on pad....... more power was the fix.
some of the 08 boats might have the 135 rating so you would be good to go.
BostonMahhk reply :
I spoke to the owner this am and he put me in touch with the bps he bought it from and they confirmed that exact statement you just made and more so they confirmed it for that boat for me so it is good to go
rich019 reply :
You can find MUCH better deals and a lot more boat if you look around a little. It took me 6 months before I finally bought a boat. I just didn't want to be stuck with something I wanted to sell in a year because it was too slow or underpowered with livewells full, gear etc, and one that would last me for quite a few years
In February I bought a 1 owner (old couple) 2002 Triton TR-19 with a 200HP Vmax, Humminbird depth/chart/side imaging, Brand New Minn-Kota Fortex, painted Aluminum wheels on the trailer, not a rip in any seat and not a stain or rip in any of the carpet. Boat looks brand new. $12,000. I fish 1-2 tournaments a month and fish 2 times a month on top of that. I really run the boat hard. Age really isnt an issue if it was well maintained and you stay on it.
BBD reply :
On 11/26/2013 at 11:22 AM, rich019 said:You can find MUCH better deals and a lot more boat if you look around a little. It took me 6 months before I finally bought a boat. I just didn't want to be stuck with something I wanted to sell in a year because it was too slow or underpowered with livewells full, gear etc, and one that would last me for quite a few years
In February I bought a 1 owner (old couple) 2002 Triton TR-19 with a 200HP Vmax, Humminbird depth/chart/side imaging, Brand New Minn-Kota Fortex, painted Aluminum wheels on the trailer, not a rip in any seat and not a stain or rip in any of the carpet. Boat looks brand new. $12,000. I fish 1-2 tournaments a month and fish 2 times a month on top of that. I really run the boat hard. Age really isnt an issue if it was well maintained and you stay on it.
This guy has the right idea!
Brian Needham reply :
That Z6 is probably a little high on price being a 08.
I would check boattrader and craigslist to see the going price.
the z6 is a great fishing platform, there is a couple of really long detailed reviews out there on it.
I would never buy the first boat I was set on, its just the way I am and like to shop it around, and once you REALLY get to looking there always a great deal on a loaded boat that seems to pop up.
BostonMahhk reply :
I'd be paying 12,500 for it which isn't bad. I haven't checked nada but all 08 z6's are up to $14,900depemdimh on engine size and electronics so it's not priced out of range at al. The engine only has 55 hrs on it and tgeres $3000 in electronics. My issue is its in Georgia and I'd have to drive down to get it
ksboy reply :
If there's a boat listed anywhere and it's a really good deal, it won't last long because you aren't the only guy looking for a boat.
There's some very helpful info responding to your original question. Take the info you have and make your decision. Everyone has their own opinion about what's the most important issue in buying a boat. Ultimately, it's your money and your comfort level.
BostonMahhk reply :
Hey guys. Just wanna say thank you to everyone for their good advice and honest opinions that were given to me in the last week or so. I'm not 100% yet but I'm pretty sure I found the boat I'm buying and hopefully I'll be going to pick it up next week. Thanks again guys. Ill post some pics if and when I get it.
Sam reply :
Check the engine's specs regarding the oil.
OptiMax oil going for over $40 a gallon.
You may have to use the manufacturer's oil to keep the warranty up to date and also keep the motor running to its top performance.
Just a different take on your query.
Montanaro reply :
worn seats that you wont be sittting in is the major issue? lol sounds like a no brainer.
Lewi reply :
On 12/1/2013 at 6:12 AM, Sam said:Check the engine's specs regarding the oil.
OptiMax oil going for over $40 a gallon.
You may have to use the manufacturer's oil to keep the warranty up to date and also keep the motor running to its top performance.
Just a different take on your query.
Completely NOT true. Warranties can not be void by using another company's oil if you are using the mfgr's recommended viscosity.
-Lewi
BostonMahhk reply :
Actually I'm not buying either of those boats. I looked in more areas and found something more for the price I'm paying
flyfisher reply :
On 12/1/2013 at 8:20 AM, BostonMahhk said:Actually I'm not buying either of those boats. I looked in more areas and found something more for the price I'm paying
and that's it....you aren't even going to tell us what you are getting? 
barroncooper reply :
I had that same year 882 and it wS a great boat. Ran around 62 and rode pretty good for an 18 foot boat. I got mine 4 yrs ago for $9400 in good shape so the one you're looking at is overpriced in my opinion . I'd go for the skeeter if I were you in this situation. That xr6 is one hell of a motor though. Thirsty too if you really run it hard
Basscat7 reply :
On 12/1/2013 at 7:12 AM, Lewi said:Completely NOT true. Warranties can not be void by using another company's oil if you are using the mfgr's recommended viscosity.
-Lewi
This is correct.
It falls under the Federal, Magnuson - Moss Warranty Act
BostonMahhk reply :
I found a 2008 nitro z7 with a 150hp Merc 2-stroke in West Virginia. It's got a 24v 70lb motor guide, a humminbird 898 at the console, the stock finder in dash, and a lowrance 95x on the bow. It's always been maintained and kept inside a heated garage and it's in real nice shape. It's going tomorrow for a pre-purchase inspection. If everything is ok I'm gonna go get it this week.
barroncooper reply :
You'll like that z7 much better especially if it has an opti!
BBD reply :
On 12/2/2013 at 12:49 PM, BostonMahhk said:I found a 2008 nitro z7 with a 150hp Merc 2-stroke in West Virginia. It's got a 24v 70lb motor guide, a humminbird 898 at the console, the stock finder in dash, and a lowrance 95x on the bow. It's always been maintained and kept inside a heated garage and it's in real nice shape. It's going tomorrow for a pre-purchase inspection. If everything is ok I'm gonna go get it this week.
Whatever you do, make SURE you water test the boat. Let it warm up, then run it like a banshee, over and over again. Also, as has been mentioned earlier, see if you guys can fish out of it for the entire day so you can see how the boat acts for an extended period of time. It's a glass boat, so virutally indestructable, but as far the electronics, motor, and accessories (bilge, nav lights, etc), you'll want to MAKE sure you're getting what has been advertised.
I'm happy for you.
Does it have a hydraulic jackplate by chance?
BostonMahhk reply :
No hydraulic jack plate, no. Any reason you ask?
BBD reply :
On 12/4/2013 at 12:05 AM, BostonMahhk said:No hydraulic jack plate, no. Any reason you ask?
No biggie, but there are three things you want a hydraulic jackplate for: running in rough water; getting up on plane in shallow water; and to maximize the performance of your boat and motor. Something you can add later on down the line.
BostonMahhk reply :
I'm definitely going to. A lot of boats I looked at have them. The boat I'm looking at is being sent to Charleston Marine Friday for a pre-purchase inspection. If everything works out then I'm flying there and driving it back in a week or ao
ChiCityBasser reply :
Good luck on the purchase.
Nitrofreak reply :
Your first mistake is comparing boat to boat , it's never ever the boat from one brand to another , it's the boat that suites your needs , forget about names , take it fishing , does it suit your needs as an angler ? Does it perform the way you expect it to ? Does it give you the freedom of which you desire ? Point blank ... Does it catch fish for you ?
Brands are just brands , find a boat that suites your needs , does EXACTLY what you ask of it , anything else does not matter , I am a Nitro Freak , I will push opinions on you all day long , but in the end , tell me what you intend to do with the boat , do you want it to catch fish for you or do you want it to use to catch fish for you ?
No matter the brand , no matter the extras , are you happy with the way it provides a great fishing platform all around ? Fish from it and decide for yourself , imperfections can be addressed , perfections on the water in your feel can not .
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