Stratos 186xt 2024

SDoolittle reply :

Anyone had a sneak peek at the Stratos 186xt? It's supposed to be a big brother to the 176xt that there was so much talk about this year. It's rated for 115 HP, but I wonder what other improvements have been made.

RobDar reply :

I will be looking forward to hearing more on this possibility...

BassFeed reply :

I just received this press release via email. I like the sounds of this boat. May have to look into replacing my 20-year-old Charger with one of these. I am curious how much the upgrade to 115 HP will cost, though.

I'm hoping to have someone from Stratos come on the podcast and talk more about this model.

Stay tuned

STRATOS 186XT

Bigger than any other 18-foot boat in its class for under $17,000

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (Aug. 21, 2007) When the Stratos 176XT hit the market in late summer 2006, it exploded onto the fishing scene by giving anglers everywhere a less expensive, more stable and longer-lasting alternative to aluminum boats. Now, the XT line has been expanded with the 2008 Stratos 186XT, giving anglers even more space and power for under $17,000.

New for 2008, the Stratos 186XT is an 18-foot, 9-inch boat that feels and fishes like a 20-footer. The additional 15 inches of space is added to the front deck of the boat, giving it the same fishing space of most 20-foot bass boats, plus the added convenience of features like recessed trolling motor foot pedals and a 7-foot, 6-inch center rod locker. Completely rigged with 90-horsepower outboard, 40-pound Minn Kota trolling motor, Humminbird electronics and Road Armor Equipped® trailer, this is the most accessible and roomiest 18-foot boat in its class, meaning anglers don't have to sacrifice big money for big fishing space.

The added length of the 186XT also gives it a wider beam, making it rated for a maximum 115 horsepower more than enough power to get anglers to their favorite holes in a hurry.

The 186XT's combination of features, value and fishability has been a long time coming for serious bass anglers and local tournament competitors who want a new rig without breaking the bank. Available with a wide range of factory rigged outboards, new features on this boat include the added convenience of a lid assist on the center rod locker, a boarding ladder, Road Armor Equipped® trailer constructed of 4-inch trailer framing and Humminbird PiranhaMax 215 electronics standard at the console.

All the features that serious anglers have come to expect in a fishing boat are present on the Stratos 186XT: spacious rear deck, aerated livewell, on-board charger, power tilt and trim, running rod rack, tackle storage boxes and custom-matched upholstery on the three-across, fold-down bench seat are all standard, as well as a fit and finish that most anglers expect to pay well over $20,000 for.

Color packages for the Stratos XT line in 2008 include red gel coat, blue gel coat, Black Onyx polyflake and Gunmetal polyflake, each with a white deck cap.

STRATOS 186XT

Overall Length: 18'9"

Beam: 89 inches

Maximum Horsepower: 115

Fuel Capacity: 23 gallons

Total Person, Motor, Gear: 652 lbs.

Length on Trailer with Swing-Away Tongue Open: 20'1"

cart7t reply :

???

Using the standard formula for determining Max hp for boats under 20'

L (in feet) * W (in feet) * 2 - 90

This boat comes up to 187. Which would equate into a real world 175hp motor. This things got to be a slug even with the 115.

The Next KVD reply :

I agree with cart7. This thing will definatly be a slug w/ a max of 115. My Nitro 640LX w/ a 90hp Yamaha outran a 17ft Ranger w/ a 115 by a long shot recently. Stratos boats are just as heavy as rangers and since this boat is a 18' 9" my Nitro won't break a sweat passing this thing. Stratos really has to make some changes in there max outboard possibilities before anyone should think of buying one. Most 18 footers have a max of 175 to 200. A 115 is pathetic. Its exactly what i thought of the Stratos176XT. A heavy boat under powered even at the max rating.

BassFeed reply :

You're arguments about the undersized motor make sense.

But I guess top speed isn't the most important consideration to me.

I don't fish on lakes or rivers that require running several hours to find viable fishing spots.

And even in my current "slug" (1988 Charger 185 with 175 Johnston), I can't say that the difference between 45 mph and 65 mph has been much of a deciding factor in my tournament success or lack thereof.

Sure, if I were fishing big-money, big-water tournaments, with hundreds of other anglers in the same event, I'd agree that top-end would be an important factor. But even when I win the tournaments I enter, the prize money barely covers my travel,hotel, and fuel expenses.

I'm a weekend angler with an average-joe income. I can't spend upwards of $30K just to go as fast or faster than you.

What I see here is an affordable, reputable, reliable, and highly fishable boat designed for angler just like me...

IMHO

burleytog reply :

I had hoped the 186XT would feature side rod lockers rather than a center. I guess the 285XL is still my best bet.

RobDar reply :

....define slug...I would expect slow hole shot, but after all I think it should be expected with a boat in this range...

I would bet the boat will do 40-45 plus or minus a few.

I have never seen that formula before.

what does the math formula shoot for...

What is the benchmark?

as it stands it is 2 x 2 without a result...what "value" is the result of formula meant to express?

Is that formula what is generally considered "comfortable performance" ( at which time comfortable perfromance needs a definition)

Is that to reach a certian MPH???

A certian "to plane in X seconds"???

When you really look at it...

less than $17,000 means $16,995...

plus dealer prep and other garbage...( $1000 +/-)

plus upgrading to the 115 from the 90...($1500 +/-)

plus upgrading the presently way underpowered trolling motor ( 40lbs motor...what are they thinking???) ( $600 for basic, self installed without wiring upgrade)

plus adding a front graph...( $150-????)

plus ditching the piranhamax 215 graph---whose pixels are so bad it is hardly readable...( $150-???)

plus a cover...($500 +/-)

not including if you want a jack plate...24volt trolling motor...

you are pushing $21,000 +/- out the door.

for not too much more you could buy the 285xl...or other brand...with all these things on board already and have more motor options.

at least that is my opinion.

but for the guy who does not want or care about those particular options ( of which there are many)... I guess it will be a good deal. It will prove a good boat for the weekend angler or the guy looking for an affordable fiberglass upgrade from his aluminum.

burleytog reply :

They are going the Tracker route with these. A 40 lb. TM on the front of that thing would be a hoot.

They're shooting for the crowd that either can't afford or refuse to spend $20K+ on a boat. But like you say, once you throw in what you either need or want, it isn't that good of a deal. A 2007 285XL MSRP's for $22995.

cart7t reply :

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....define slug...I would expect slow hole shot, but after all I think it should be expected with a boat in this range...
I would bet the boat will do 40-45 plus or minus a few.

I have never seen that formula before.

what does the math formula shoot for...

What is the benchmark?

as it stands it is 2 x 2 without a result...what "value" is the result of formula meant to express?

Is that formula what is generally considered "comfortable performance" ( at which time comfortable perfromance needs a definition)

Is that to reach a certian MPH???

A certian "to plane in X seconds"???

The formula is what the industry uses to determine max horsepower for a boat hull. IIRC, the actual formula was derived from the USCG.

Anytime you under power a boat by the amount you'd be with that one you'd never reach maximum potential for the hull. That 115 would be running nearly full throttle just to keep that thing up on plane if the boat was fully loaded. A 115 running full throttle eats gas just as much as a 175 running 2/3. Since both boats would run the same speed, you're not optimizing the full potential of the boat and motor combination.

Why not rate the hull for what it's true value is and let the customer decide if they want to underhorse power?

RobDar reply :

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Why not rate the hull for what it's true value is and let the customer decide if they want to underhorse power?

perhaps THAT IS the hulls potential/ true value...

I asked this question once before...wondering if they do some other things to make the boat cheaper...

less a layer of lamination?...

less structure of/on the transom?...

lighter weight stringers?...

less flotation?...

perhaps there is something physically different about the boat that limits the horsepower that it can handle safely.

I know we all feel like there is alot of mark up in boats...but I wonder if this is like Electrical equipment. When you pay less...you get less! You would think Hubbell is flippin crazy for what they charge for devices and equipment...but there really is ALOT of difference between Hubbell and something like Pass and Seymour. Just looking you cannot tell...but they are definately different

I feel like that there is likely SOMETHING besides just the cheaper electronics...cheaper trolling motor...and less deck compartments that make these boats cheaper.

I would love to see someone take one of these and a "middle of the road" boat from the same manufactuer and see what the difference are.

cart7t reply :

Quote

Quote

Why not rate the hull for what it's true value is and let the customer decide if they want to underhorse power?

perhaps THAT IS the hulls potential/ true value...

I asked this question once before...wondering if they do some other things to make the boat cheaper...

less a layer of lamination?...

less structure of/on the transom?...

lighter weight stringers?...

less flotation?...

perhaps there is something physically different about the boat that limits the horsepower that it can handle safely.

I know we all feel like there is alot of mark up in boats...but I wonder if this is like Electrical equipment. When you pay less...you get less! You would think Hubbell is flippin crazy for what they charge for devices and equipment...but there really is ALOT of difference between Hubbell and something like Pass and Seymour. Just looking you cannot tell...but they are definately different

I feel like that there is likely SOMETHING besides just the cheaper electronics...cheaper trolling motor...and less deck compartments that make these boats cheaper.

I would love to see someone take one of these and a "middle of the road" boat from the same manufactuer and see what the difference are.

Not likely, the 176 hull weight is listed at 1200lbs, that's no light weight by any means.

What you're talking about is what Allison does with something like their XB-2002. That's a 20 footer rated for 200. Super tuned that boat will run over 100mph, With just a 150 it'll run 70 easily. That's a case where a boat has been designed and constructed with ultra light composites along with a hull design with maximum lift that allows you to run a motor drastically less than the max rated hp on the plate and still get very acceptable performance.

Here's where I have the problem with this. These boats are specifically targeted to entry level owners. Most any newb bass boat shopper will hit the bass boat advice columns. Virtually everyone of them advises to rig a boat with the max hp motor as possible, including the bass boat information on this website.

Now this informed future boat owner goes out and starts looking for a 17.5 or 18.5. They've got a limited budget and they're not comfortable shelling out $20k to begin with. They find most 17.5's need at least a 115 - 150hp for maximum hp. The prices reflect that. The same if it's a 18.5, usually 175 - 200hp.

Then they see the Stratos 176 or 186. They see the reduced max hp. They think to themselves that Stratos must be doing something different to get performance out of a 17.5 or 18.5 with a significantly smaller motor.

They're not.

Honestly, Nitro does the same thing on their non-900 series boats.

Besides that deception, what happens when said newb boat owners buys the boat and a year down the road he becomes frustrated with the performance? If he has the cash he opt out to up scale the hp on the boat but he can't. The hp limitation has locked him into a motor that's insufficient for the boat. He can stick the larger OB on their but his insurance company isn't going to be happy and if they're not happy, the bank he has the loan with won't be happy either.

Now the guy is stuck in an under-performing boat and his only option is to live with it or sell it, probably for a loss.

I don't still don't think these boats do anyone any favors. Just rate the d**n things the way you're supposed to and if a customer wants to vastly under power their rig that's their choice.

cart7t reply :

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You're arguments about the undersized motor make sense.
But I guess top speed isn't the most important consideration to me.

I don't fish on lakes or rivers that require running several hours to find viable fishing spots.

And even in my current "slug" (1988 Charger 185 with 175 Johnston), I can't say that the difference between 45 mph and 65 mph has been much of a deciding factor in my tournament success or lack thereof.

Sure, if I were fishing big-money, big-water tournaments, with hundreds of other anglers in the same event, I'd agree that top-end would be an important factor. But even when I win the tournaments I enter, the prize money barely covers my travel,hotel, and fuel expenses.

I'm a weekend angler with an average-joe income. I can't spend upwards of $30K just to go as fast or faster than you.

What I see here is an affordable, reputable, reliable, and highly fishable boat designed for angler just like me...

IMHO

Actually, my comments have nothing to do with buying a boat for maximum speed. Although putting the maximum hp motor on a boat will not only maximize performance but certainly help with resale value down the road.

My issue is breaking the standard rules of HP measurements to rate the boat and then creating the illusion, at least for those that don't know any better, that somehow Stratos has come up with a 17 1/2 or an 18 1/2 foot boat that can run with the same performance as everybody elses with far less hp.

It's not true.

Frankly, by the time you replace that undersized trolling motor, upgrade most everything that will need upgrading, you can probably buy quite a few boats from different builders, under power them just like the Stratos and wind up paying the same amount of money.

RobDar reply :

Cart 7...I see your point.

There is some advantage to the old days...before the "package deal" boats...when there was a few hulls to choose from and you outfitted it as you saw fit. Tracker claims they revolutionized the industry with their packaged boat deals...and to some extent they did, but in other ways they burned us.

There is however a market for these boats. Whether that market has been created by issuing a supply of boats...or if the boats were supplied to satisfy the an existing market...who knows...probably a little of both. Not every boat buyer has the same needs and wants. There are just as many folks buying boats who could not care one didly about performance; and in fact would not even recognize the difference in performance, as there are those who watchdog performance.

There is some definate value to maximizing HP and performance...for the guy who cares. I do not think that these companies are making a mistake or trying to pull a fast one by building these boats. I feel they are fullfilling a market demand and are offering a product that otherwise would not be available to a certian segment of the boat buying public.

Now...some of those folks will indeed one day think to themselves..."Crap I should have bought the..." and want to upgrade. Some of these folks would never have even bought a boat in the first place if not for these entry level boats and in this situation the companies have created a customer where there was not one presently...

...and there is nothing wrong with that! That is capitalism! That is just darn good business!

If these folks take a loss on their boats because they came into with to small a downpayment, too long of a financing term with too steep of an interest curve, or too few upgrades to make the boat desirable...well you cannot really blame the companies for that. That is just foolish consumerism. 80% of America takes a loss on their cars and think nothing of it. Should boats be different? (A friend of mine would harrang you till you cried for financing a car at all...he says ALL CARS SHOULD ALWAYS BE BOUGHT CASH...is he right? yep, probably...but then he has the money to do that...dropping $50,000 on a new truck, cash, is not even a thinker for him...but he has no right to criticize others for not having that option) Personally I think people need to be smarter when buying both...but it wont happen and it is not the responsibility of manufacturers to ensure people make wise choices. We live in a "want it got to have it" society...and I cannot fault corporations for taking advantage of it.

Hell...I do. Everytime somebody wants some crazy expensive light fixture from Italy that is no different than one made here in America...other than it was made in Italy...I get a big smile. Bigger price tag, bigger mark up! The people who shop without any common sense are the folks who pay my bills.

There is as well the other portion of the boat buying public who will buy these boats and be happy as a lark with it from the get go...

...and again...they may have never bought a boat at all if this entry level choice was not available and again the companies have created a customer where there was not one before...just good business top to bottom. This kind of supply and demand comsumerism is what this country was built on!

I think the guy who plans to make SERIOUS use of his boat better darn well do the research to make sure he is making not only a good performance decision, but a sound financial one as well...but it is not the companies fault if he does not do that and foolishly chooses an entry level boat and then hates it.

That is his fault...the companies supplied him with a choice and he made the wrong one.

On the flip side the weekend angler or bounce about boater may not have EVER HAD A CHOICE if not for these entry level boats. There is nothing wrong with someone buying this boat because it is all they can afford or all they want to pay. They may in fact buy it and love it and without this choice never had the choice at all.

powerman970 reply :

I own a 176 XT and it is rated for a 75hp but mine is powered by a 50. It is not sluggish and the difference in top speed between the 50 and the 75 is only about 5mph. The hull design is the reason for the lower power rating on these boats. If you have seen one then you will notice that they are not the typical modified V or tri hull designs seen on most boats. Statos actually designed the boat around the motor instead of designing a boat and then choosing a motor for it and when they did so they chose to use a skiff design on the hull. The boat would probably skip like a rock across the water with too much power because of this but if top end speed is not your main objective I highly recommend the 176 and I'm sure the 186 will perform just as well. For the first time in my life, I can fish 2-3 days on one tank of gas and the boat maneuvers well and planes out quickly. I had some of the same concerns about being underrated on power but it has been anything but a problem. I LOVE MINE!

senile1 reply :

Last year I was thinking about purchasing another boat, but I decided to keep my old boat and spend my money on siding for my home this year. Now I'm back in the market and I wanted to discuss the 186 XT as well as any other boats in this size range that are considered to be good values. I'm not looking for a smoking hot boat on the hole shot or in top speed, but I'm not looking for a total dog either. I have the funds to purchase a boat in the 20 - 30k range but if I find a boat that will do what I want for less, I'm all for it.

Does anyone know much about the 186 XT, other than the information given on the press release? Can anyone else confirm what powerman970 stated about the skiff design of the hull? I found some testing information on the 176 XT: http://www.boattest.com/boats/1228/test_results.aspx. It isn't fast by any means but it would suffice to get you where you want to go and the fuel economy is decent. It isn't the size I want but I was thinking it might give some insight into the 186 XT. I would definitely upgrade the graph at the console, add a fish finder on the bow, and upgrade the trolling motor on this boat. I'm fine with 40 mph and 4 second hole shots as I don't compete in tournaments.

Cart7, what is your take on the design of this hull?

Catt reply :

The Stratos 186XT is a wet rough ride in a chop, the XL is a better buy

twors reply :

Run over to Cabelas and check out the new Ranger 177TR...now thats a fishing boat!

cart7t reply :

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Last year I was thinking about purchasing another boat, but I decided to keep my old boat and spend my money on siding for my home this year. Now I'm back in the market and I wanted to discuss the 186 XT as well as any other boats in this size range that are considered to be good values. I'm not looking for a smoking hot boat on the hole shot or in top speed, but I'm not looking for a total dog either. I have the funds to purchase a boat in the 20 - 30k range but if I find a boat that will do what I want for less, I'm all for it.
Does anyone know much about the 186 XT, other than the information given on the press release? Can anyone else confirm what powerman970 stated about the skiff design of the hull? I found some testing information on the 176 XT: http://www.boattest.com/boats/1228/test_results.aspx. It isn't fast by any means but it would suffice to get you where you want to go and the fuel economy is decent. It isn't the size I want but I was thinking it might give some insight into the 186 XT. I would definitely upgrade the graph at the console, add a fish finder on the bow, and upgrade the trolling motor on this boat. I'm fine with 40 mph and 4 second hole shots as I don't compete in tournaments.

Cart7, what is your take on the design of this hull?

Just watching that video on your link to the 176 it's a slug. It's also got a less aggressive V, that explains the lack of roll in the hull when he moved to the outside edge of the boat even with that narrower beam. Less aggressive V's mean a rough water ride. Couple that with sluggish speeds that boat exhibits in that video and you're in for a pounding in rough water.

As long as you don't fish big waters and if you do, make sure you get off before things get rough those boats are fine. The realistic HP rating on those boats should be twice the upper end. Really, the hull weight on that 176 is 1200lbs, no lightweight. If you watch that 176 video with the 70hp the hull is barely half out of the water at top end. Tremendous drag means slower speeds and a bouncer in bigger chop. If that's not an issue than the boat seems like a pretty good deal but, if you want at least a little performance I'm afraid that thing will fall flat on it's face. It's a nice, simple boat for someone not the least bit interested in any type of real performance but wants a solid fishing platform.

If you're like me though, occasionally I like to run my boat and have some fun with it. You'll have to scale back your definition of fun as far as the running aspects of that rig.

senile1 reply :

I did notice that the hull was only half out of the water. As mentioned by a couple of people in this thread, I am also looking at the Stratos 285XL, as well as Triton, Skeeter, and Nitro boats which have dealers in my area. I haven't ruled out a good used boat either, but I definitely need to replace my 15 and a half foot with its 70 horse Johnson. Talk about a rough ride on big lakes . . . . I take it out on Truman and Smithville Lakes here in Missouri and it can be downright scary when the winds reach 25 - 35 mph.

cart7t reply :

I would also suggest a Missouri built Charger boat. Unfortunately the closest dealer I see to the KC area is in Pittsburg Missouri.

ThomasL reply :

On a note about the stratos i outran a 176 with the 70 yamaha on it with my xpress sv17 with a 50 yammie,might be the extra 500 lbs of fiberglass holding it back verses my aluminum hull. ;D

Olebiker reply :

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On a note about the stratos i outran a 176 with the 70 yamaha on it with my xpress sv17 with a 50 yammie,might be the extra 500 lbs of fiberglass holding it back verses my aluminum hull. ;D

Did he know you were racing?

ThomasL reply :

Olebiker,yea ,i could read his lips cussing about spending 5000+ more and being passed by a mean looking tin boat!!! :

Olebiker reply :

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Olebiker,yea ,i could read his lips cussing about spending 5000+ more and being passed by a mean looking tin boat!!! :

Tin boats rule, Dude! I'll buy another one when this one dies.

senile1 reply :

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Olebiker,yea ,i could read his lips cussing about spending 5000+ more and being passed by a mean looking tin boat!!! :

He doesn't sound like a very informed boater. Just from looking at the weight specs he should have known that the 176 XT couldn't keep up with an aluminum boat of comparable length. Of course, his beam of 84 inches gives him more room than your beam of 75 inches. Different strokes for different folks.

cart7t reply :

Senile, I just re-read your thread and you're saying you'll have $25-30k to spend on a boat and you're not limiting it to just new, but a good used one as well??

Uhh,, I'd forget that Stratos 186 and start looking. Your doors are open to PLENTY of great used rigs with that price range.

Catt reply :

Xpress SVX17 95 beam; way more storage than a 176XT

If I had 25-30K to spend on a boat it wouldn't be on a low end stratos, 2008 Xpress X19 with a VZ200RTLR Yamaha nationally advertised for $26,995

Jeff H reply :

Some people don't need big speed. I can be happy going 40 mph as long as I have a roomy fishing platform. However, I'd buy a used boat with a 150 on it before I'd buy a 186 XT. With 25-30,000 to blow on a boat, I could find something I like really easy on the used market that would cover everything the XT offers and PLENTY more.

senile1 reply :

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Senile, I just re-read your thread and you're saying you'll have $25-30k to spend on a boat and you're not limiting it to just new, but a good used one as well??
Uhh,, I'd forget that Stratos 186 and start looking. Your doors are open to PLENTY of great used rigs with that price range.

I am looking at used rigs, but I always keep my mind open. I don't spend 25 grand when I can get something that will meet my needs for 20. I don't buy what I can afford. I buy what I need. It seems to be a good way to put more money in the retirement funds, at least for me. So I don't close my mind to anything until I've checked it out. Since the 186 XT is new and very little info exists for it, I thought it was worth a look-see. If what I need requires 30 grand to acquire it so be it. If 20 or 15 grand will suffice, then why spend more just because I have it available.

Catt reply :

Senile1, I to am in the process of looking for a new/used boat; here's what I've look at in new.

Xpress boats introduced a package price they call Nationally Advertised

H18

Length: 18'

Bottom: 68

Beam: 95

Weight: 1294

Max HP: 150

Fuel: 24 gal

Motor: Yamaha V150TLR

Package Price: $19,995

senile1 reply :

Catt, thanks for the info. I've been checking out some websites and, after reading what you and another poster said about the Xpress boats I am looking closely at them. I also found what appear to be some good used values on some Champions and Procrafts within an hours drive of here. I still have a lot of shopping to do.

Catt reply :

I've been looking for a while now and its nuts, new or used, glass or aluminum; my problem is there is no place close to me. So I'm gonna have to drive to Baton Rouge or Houston or Dallas/Ft Worth.

basspro48 reply :

I own a 2001 Xpress X18 and absolutely love everything about it. Plenty of storage, huge fishing deck, smooth ride, tough as nails, handles great, and she'll git up and go.

63mph with me, 1/2 tank, and all my gear

54-56 with 2 people, 3/4 tank, and all my gear

50 flat with 3 people, 1/2 tank, and a whole lotta gear

Now pretty much all Xpress's come powered with a Yamaha, but I got mine with a Merc 150 EFI (which in a couple months will hopefully be a 190)

I highly recommend these boats to anyone in the market, they perform like glass boats and have the ruggedness of a tin hull.

SissySticks reply :

Something I always notice about the bass boat crowd is an obsession with performance. Don't get me wrong, I've been in a BassCat Puma at 80mph and it was awesome. Obsession with performance is fine. However, I think that the performance-crazed bassboat crowd does a disservice to some people when they go on message boards asking about this or that boat and get the response "its under powered" or "you'll never get top end performance out of that." Its a disservice because we don't first ask that person what their usage is.

Example: I'm a high school teacher. It's an awesome job for a fisherman, because I get to fish 70+ days a year if I want and still make a living. Frankly, for my profession and age (25), I'm even a well-paid high school teacher. Nevertheless, I pull down less than $40000/year.

If you figure that 70+ days of fishing a year and my salary, fuel economy becomes a really important factor for a fisherman like me, but I also like to travel to fish and some lakes around here are big (10-16,000 acres), so I want to have a boat I feel comfortable in. For my budget, I need a boat that can get ~5mpg, but speed doesn't matter, as long as I can fish my 70 days. Stratos fills this niche pretty well.

If I went even further with my questions, you might ask a guy if he fishes tournaments, because obviously, that's why all these super-fast boats developed in the first place. If a guy doesn't, then speed really isn't going to matter to him either. I do, but I'm about 90% finesse fishing, so I like to get there after the other guys and fish behind them (they leave so many fish ). So even though I fish tournaments, speed still isn't nearly as important to me as fuel economy. So before everyone starts talking performance, lets talk about needs. Stratos XT boats offer lots of amenities (abundant storage, cool rod organizer, lots of fishing space, divided live wells, etc.) in a boat that gets great fuel economy. The 186xt will be on my list when I replace my boat in a couple years, because it will meet my need for big boat+fuel economy.

fishfordollars reply :

Cart7t nailed this one. Way under powered. Worst thing to do to a boat. Good luck selling it when someone figures out it won't perform.

Any 18 ft. boat should have either a 150 or 175 on it to get it up on the pad and keep it there without straining the motor. Bet the gas milage will suck also. Going to be plenty of unhappy people after the new wears off with this one.

Olebiker reply :

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Cart7t nailed this one. Way under powered. Worst thing to do to a boat. Good luck selling it when someone figures out it won't perform.
Any 18 ft. boat should have either a 150 or 175 on it to get it up on the pad and keep it there without straining the motor. Bet the gas milage will suck also. Going to be plenty of unhappy people after the new wears off with this one.

I think you are missing the whole point of this boat and all others in its price range. Yeah, if I could afford a 21 foot boat with a 250 I would love to have it but, if I were going to buy a glass boat, the 186 with a 115 is what I would probably buy. Its what I can afford to buy, what I can afford to operate, and what I can pull with the truck I have now.

I would go into the purchase knowing that I am buying a boat that will not win any races, but will be a solid fishing platform for years to come.

According to BoatTest.com this boat will get on plane in 3.1 seconds. It will run about 40 mph at 4,500 rpms and get 3.95 mpg at that speed. It tops put at 51 mph which is plenty fast for me.

cart7t reply :

Quote
Something I always notice about the bass boat crowd is an obsession with performance. Don't get me wrong, I've been in a BassCat Puma at 80mph and it was awesome. Obsession with performance is fine. However, I think that the performance-crazed bassboat crowd does a disservice to some people when they go on message boards asking about this or that boat and get the response "its under powered" or "you'll never get top end performance out of that." Its a disservice because we don't first ask that person what their usage is.
Example: I'm a high school teacher. It's an awesome job for a fisherman, because I get to fish 70+ days a year if I want and still make a living. Frankly, for my profession and age (25), I'm even a well-paid high school teacher. Nevertheless, I pull down less than $40000/year.

If you figure that 70+ days of fishing a year and my salary, fuel economy becomes a really important factor for a fisherman like me, but I also like to travel to fish and some lakes around here are big (10-16,000 acres), so I want to have a boat I feel comfortable in. For my budget, I need a boat that can get ~5mpg, but speed doesn't matter, as long as I can fish my 70 days. Stratos fills this niche pretty well.

If I went even further with my questions, you might ask a guy if he fishes tournaments, because obviously, that's why all these super-fast boats developed in the first place. If a guy doesn't, then speed really isn't going to matter to him either. I do, but I'm about 90% finesse fishing, so I like to get there after the other guys and fish behind them (they leave so many fish ). So even though I fish tournaments, speed still isn't nearly as important to me as fuel economy. So before everyone starts talking performance, lets talk about needs. Stratos XT boats offer lots of amenities (abundant storage, cool rod organizer, lots of fishing space, divided live wells, etc.) in a boat that gets great fuel economy. The 186xt will be on my list when I replace my boat in a couple years, because it will meet my need for big boat+fuel economy.

What's at issue is a boat that's dragging through the water at WOT throttle vs. a boat that's running with a true rated engine for the size hull it's mounted on and the gas mileage you get compared.

There are video's on the web of the 176 in action, with either the 50 or the 75 mounted on them. The boats aren't technically running at their maximum efficiency because the smaller OB is being forced to run at WOT throttle just to keep them from plowing water. This not only makes for a rough ride but any OB having to run at WOT is burning fuel at a rate of non-efficiency just to keep the hull up out of the water.

If I take the same 176 boat, slap a 135hp motor on it and run it at WOT I will burn more gas but I'll have lifted the hull far enough out of the water that drag becomes less of an issue. Hence, the gas mileage wouldn't be as bad with that larger motor vs smaller. Going a step further, I have the option of running that 135 at 2/3 - 3/4 throttle, running the same speed as the 75 at WOT and actually burn the same amount of gas or even less.

Let me say this though. These boats have a time and place. I definitely wouldn't suggest either model for any lake that can get rough. They run a wider, flatter hull with less V in it which is what provides the great stability and all the storage. My only issue is this new gimmick of underrating the hp on these boats (and others) to create the impression that the motors being sold with these boats will provide the maximum performance the hull is capable of. They don't. It would be just as easy to sell the same boat at the same prices but simply list the true hp rating of the hull. That way, if a person likes the boat and wants to upgrade the motor to a larger one they can.

ks cranker reply :

I've got a 97 Xpress H56 with 115 yam - runs real strong. Plenty of space for tackle and rods. Found it last spring and I'm so glad I didn't buy anything else - looked at stratos and trackers - would have had a bigger payment and not a better boat!

I would def look at a used boat over new - much better deals to be had.

t bend tex reply :

Interesting tread- I was on the way into Beaumont, Tx yesterday taking my wife to the orthopedic clinic (she broke her arm in a fishing related accident that I won't get into here), running a bit early, I was lured into a boat dealer. I have been thinking of updating my rig, so I did not resist the urge.

after looking at a ratty 96' ranger, we were headed out and took a quick peak at the Stratos line. They have a 186XT rigged out with a 115HP Yamaha 4 stroke. By then, we were running out of time for doc appt, so I didn't get all the info, but I think I recall that boat was rigged with a MK 70# 24V troll motor, and maybe two cheapo sonars.

My wife (my fishing partner) and I were impressed with the layout of the rig, and decided we would look into it later, but that I would make a post on BR when we got home- But I see that someone else started one.

some comments from me:

I am not obsessed with 70 MPH on the water- heck, I don't drive 70 on the way to the lake. I fish the mighty Toledo Bend, but most of my fishing is within 5 miles of my camp. Also- Catt can confirm this- there are thousands of acres of flooded timber in TB, and only in areas of the lake that very familiar, would I even consider running 70. most of my travel even in the boat lanes will not exceed 40 MPH- and 25 is normal.

I have had several boats- glass and tin, it seems to me that the tin boats are harder to control with the troll motor because they tend to sit higher in the water, however, a tin boat is usually easier to get off one of those flooded trees when you do get on one.

I wonder about the toughness of the Stratos in the timber- Catt, you may have some thoughts on that.

there have been some comparing of the 186XT and 285XL. according to their brochure, weight 1450#/1500#, length 18'9"/18'6", capacity 1320#/1110#, max hp 115/150, inside depth 16.5"/19", beam 89"/91".

When I have time in the next day or so, I will get a package price on the 186 rig and the 285 this dealer has on hand and I will post it.

Larry G

t bend tex reply :

Just for comparison, the rigs here are:

2008 model 285XL, $25,800 including TTL, V150TLR engine, 24V MK troll motor-

2009 model 186XT, $23,700, including TTL, F150TLR engine, 24V MK troll motor

Haven't had time to check out all the bells and whistles yet and gotta take wife to Doc in Houston tomorrow.

I'm not up on Yamaha engines- can someone tell me about the two above models?

Larry G

cart7t reply :

The V150TLR is a VMax engine. Carburated. Very good reliable motor with an outstanding track record. Very stout engine.

The F150 is a 4 stroke. As with any Yamaha, it's a good engine. If a 4 stroke is your cup of tea you can't go wrong.

senile1 reply :

Way back when this thread started I was in the market for a boat and I was considering the 186XT. After paying heed to Cart7t's advice, I purchased a boat and I have to say you can't go wrong listening to him.

With the economy in the condition it is in, you can bet there are some great deals on good used boats on the Internet. I perused a number of sites when I was seeking a boat. (One of the best is iboats.com.) I found a 2000 Stratos 295XL with a 200 HP Evinrude motor for $15,000. The boat had been babied and the motor runs like a champ. I never thought I needed to go 60 or 70 mph on a lake either but it definitely adds to the fun factor and can be very useful when you're trying to get off the lake to beat an incoming storm.

The boat I purchased is a much greater value than the 186XT and it is cheaper. You can't go wrong looking at used boats, as long as you are careful, and check them out with a mechanic. I spent a great deal of time checking out everything and I know I drove the seller nuts but that's what you have to do when buying anything used.

t bend tex reply :

thanks for info on the Yamaha's-

because I use my rig at "idle" speed a great deal of time, I fell that a 4 Stroke would be less likely to foul plugs, etc. any thought or experience regarding that.

Larry G

Catt reply :

Larry I bought a 1996 Stratos 258V from my brother who has owned it since 1997, Stratos boats are rock solid, smooth riding, and handles rough water with the best of them. I agree with others about not under powering a boat, this boat came with a 70 hp which is the max rating for it but it feels like it could us a bit more when coming out of the hole since the hole shot is slow. In 1997 the exact same boat is rated for a 90 hp; guess Stratos saw the problem to.

Catt reply :

Larry here's an excellent buy

http://www.louisianasportsman.com/classifieds.php?sec=classifieds&act=full&adID=49387#pictures102921

Way2slow reply :

As for the 186XT. I think there's a fox in the hen house somewhere. For them to cut the HP that far back on a boat that size, it has to have a very light hull layup and not the strongest of designs . You also notice they never mention hull weight, but go to the regular Stratos line and they always give you the hull weight. Just because it has the Stratos name, don't think you're getting something like their lengendary line they are known for. You've gotta remember, the same company that owns Stratos also owns Bayliner and other cheaply built boats so they know how to build cheap boats and don't think they wouldn't use a Top line brand name to market a cheap boat. With the way todays boat market is going, that hull could have Bayliner design all over it.

I think it's like the Force motor and Bayliner Boats, yea you save some when you first buy it, but you loose your butt when you try to get rid of it because you almost have to give them away to get rid of them.

If I was wanting a good size new boat that would get me fishing at a minimal cost, I would look at an aluminum before getting something like that 186XT. The aluminums hold their resale value pretty good, are light and easy to tow, and don't take a big motor to push them. If you don't care for the ride of a tin can, find you a quality boat one or two years old that someone is trying to get out from under the payments and willing to sell very reasonable. Those can however be hard to find because they usually bought them on 7 - 10 years notes with verly little down so they owe a whole lot more than the boat would ever be worth.

If you're close to GA and want a nice older boat, real cheap, I've got a 1989 Stratos 285 Pro I will sell real cheap just to get it out of my yard. This is not a ragged out piece of crap, it was fully restored about four years ago, the carper and seats still look great.

t bend tex reply :

thanks catt and way2slow

catt, I will make a call on this one.

way2slow- A little info on the stratos- Stratos is owned by "Genmar", along with Ranger, Champion, and about 10 other brands, so looks as if they make a good range.

The stratos brochure shows the weight of the 186xt @ 1450#, the 285xl @1500 #

I had a decent rig now 4 year old 18' vee aluminum, 90hp merc, runs good, overall good shape. My wife and I would prefer a more "bassboat" layout . ours is great for crappie fishing, lots of room, deep, 2 livewells.

I think I would like the 4 stroke, from what I have seen around the lakes.

I'm gonna keep looking - I'm sure to run across the perfect boat soon.

btw, Yamaha is now offering 6 yr warranty on 4 strokes- good thru Dec 1

Larry G

Catt reply :

Interesting reading on the 186xt

http://www.bwbmag.com/output.cfm?id=1650727&sectionid=310

t bend tex reply :

catt, thanks for the link- I would think the yamaha 115hp 4 stroke would perform somewhat in the same range. I take a closer look at this one

Larry G

cart7t reply :

Just remember on the 4 strokes. Yes they're really quiet, very smooth when idling and a little better on gas but they weigh more and there's more routine maintenance that must be done on them, often by the dealer, in order to maintain the warranty on the engine. That = higher operating expenses.

t bend tex reply :

thanks cart7t-

I'm learning- I have only heard of the "good" aspects of the 4 strokes

Larry G

t bend tex reply :

The Yamaha 115hp 4/s = 402#, the 115 2/s = 358#.

150hp 4/s = 466#, the 150hp 2/s = 426#.

The 2/s have an oil tank in the bilge area of the stratos, along with the tubing and wiring would add a little weight-maybe 20#.

I will look into the maint requirements of both.

thanks again

Larry G

Catt reply :

The only disadvantage I've heard about 4-strokes is the maintenance issues which the only issue is the inconvenience of not having your boat but in Hemphill the issue is little to no maintenance facilities.

Bass Dude reply :

Go with the 285XL. I've had mine for 5 years now and love it. Great ride and gets up to 60mph with a 150hp Yamaha VMax and a full load of gear. This is a great boat for the money, you won't be dissappointed. I've heard too many horror stories about NITROs customer service (or lack thereof).

t bend tex reply :

I'm looking at the Stratos 285XL as well as the Stratos 186XT- not much difference in price- about $2M- the 285XL having a 2 stroke 150 2 stroke and the 186XT having a 4 stroke 115HP.

I'm leaning toward the 4 stroke

I AM NOT considering a NITRO at all!

thanks for the help

Larry G

t bend tex reply :

according to the dealer sales manager, the only required work to be done by a dealer is the 10 hour checkup at a cost of about $200. All other maint (annual oil change etc) can be done by owner.

He also tells me that the 4 stroke has less service issues/problems that the 2 stroke.

thanks for all the help. My wife and I are headed to Houston tomorrow, and from there to Toledo Bend for the remainder of the week. I will make my decision within the next two weeks, after looking at several used rigs plus the new 285Xl and new 186XT.

we plan to enjoy our TG week pursuing the elusive largemouth bass.

Larry G

Stratos 186xt 2024

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