Vexus Boats? 2024

SBFISHING reply :

has anyone heard or know anything about these boats it appears they will be unveiled at the classic expo this year?
http://vexusboats.com/

J Francho reply :

Well, since they're being unveiled at the classic, that's about all we know. They're going to be pricey. That's about all I know.

SBFISHING reply :

wonder if they will have both aluminum and fiberglass models. iv seen the teaser pics of the aluminum.

JLBBass reply :

On 3/6/2018 at 10:38 PM, J Francho said:

Well, since they're being unveiled at the classic, that's about all we know. They're going to be pricey. That's about all I know.

VERY pricey!!!

slonezp reply :

On 3/6/2018 at 10:42 PM, SBFISHING said:

wonder if they will have both aluminum and fiberglass models. iv seen the teaser pics of the aluminum.

They will

nosdog2 reply :

There are a few teaser pics on FB and ***. Seems interesting, they definitely put a team together of experts that is for sure. From what I see they have a ways to go until they hit full production, they are still building out the factory in WV.

Don't think you have to be a member to see the pictures:

https://www.facebook.com/vexusboats/

Obi_Wan reply :

On 3/6/2018 at 10:42 PM, SBFISHING said:

wonder if they will have both aluminum and fiberglass models. iv seen the teaser pics of the aluminum.

Aluminum first. Fiberglass still under development and planned to be released later this year. Bunch of guys from Ranger. Should be good stuff.

rangerjockey reply :

I'm looking at a new one this year. I really like the charger/champion 210. But.. I think I'll wait and see what they have to offer.

Looks like the new plant in Flippin is just about ready to go.

J Francho reply :

My take is that after all the Bass Pro takeovers had some of these builders chomping at the bit to do something new, but they had to wait for their non compete contracts to run out. It's not just Ranger people; other manus are represented as well.

rangerjockey reply :

Yes, Stratos as well.

12poundbass reply :

On 3/6/2018 at 10:38 PM, J Francho said:

Well, since they're being unveiled at the classic, that's about all we know. They're going to be pricey. That's about all I know.

On 3/6/2018 at 11:56 PM, PolarKraft195Pro said:

VERY pricey!!!

Some maybe....

Some maybe not?

Hopefully we'll find out Friday.

punch reply :

The vexus marketing campaign is so ridiculous. Their videos/promo materials have about 1400 adjectives about quality/performance/engineering/craftsmenship/experience and everything is LEGENDARY. All while not providing any useful information. Just a constant string of word soup.

I really want to slap their marketing people and tell them to knock it off with the superlative's when you haven't sold a single boat yet.

Sorry, just wanted to rant.

A-Jay reply :

Vexus leaked a video a few days back (FB) - got a brief look at a boat.

Looks pretty cool.

Looking forward to seeing more.

A-Jay

12poundbass reply :

On 3/16/2018 at 2:58 AM, punch said:

The vexus marketing campaign is so ridiculous. Their videos/promo materials have about 1400 adjectives about quality/performance/engineering/craftsmenship/experience and everything is LEGENDARY. All while not providing any useful information. Just a constant string of word soup.

I really want to slap their marketing people and tell them to knock it off with the superlative's when you haven't sold a single boat yet.

Sorry, just wanted to rant.

It's called hype. Have you seen all the talk over this company and they haven't revealed a single boat yet. I'd say their marketing have done it's job so far. Now if there's all this hype and these boats are no different than any other then I'd say it's it's a failure. We'll see tomorrow.

A-Jay reply :

A-Jay

12poundbass reply :

On 3/16/2018 at 4:41 AM, A-Jay said:

A-Jay

Looks cool so far. It'll be interesting to see the price.

punch reply :

I bet the price will be revolutionary! LEGENDARY EVEN.

WRB reply :

The price will be compatible to Lexus.

Tom

12poundbass reply :

I'm leaning the other way. I think they'll be competitive with the Lund Renegade and the Ranger RT.

A-Jay reply :

New models can have some growing pains -

If the price doesn't reflect that - they may not be well received.

A-Jay

slonezp reply :

On 3/16/2018 at 5:17 AM, 12poundbass said:

I'm leaning the other way. I think they'll be competitive with the Lund Renegade and the Ranger RT.

I think you're dead wrong. They are marketing this as "Legendary" It's not "Legendary" at a <$30K price point. Something that is "Legendary" commands more money.

slonezp reply :

There's nothing competitive about this hype and it sure doesn't sound inexpensive. https://vexusboats.com/advantages/home/

Dirtyeggroll reply :

On 3/16/2018 at 3:02 AM, A-Jay said:

Vexus leaked a video a few days back (FB) - got a brief look at a boat.

Looks pretty cool.

Looking forward to seeing more.

A-Jay

At first glance it looks like the front of that what I’m assuming is aluminum model boat in the video should sit low more like a glass boat which really peaked my interest. Upon further examination, maybe not. For an aluminum boat it sure does seem to have the curves.

12poundbass reply :

On 3/16/2018 at 8:14 AM, slonezp said:

I think you're dead wrong. They are marketing this as "Legendary" It's not "Legendary" at a <$30K price point. Something that is "Legendary" commands more money.

Or by legendary they mean top of the line, top notch craftsmanship at a price the average Joe can afford?

Catt reply :

I want see one up close & personal ????

60+ years in this sport, seen a lot of companies come & go.

That doesn't mean the were bad products!

J Francho reply :

On 3/16/2018 at 7:34 PM, 12poundbass said:

Or by legendary they mean top of the line, top notch craftsmanship at a price the average Joe can afford?

I guarantee you that the launch boats will not be affordable. That will come later, after making a splash with flagship models. First aluminum, then glass.

12poundbass reply :

On 3/16/2018 at 8:32 PM, J Francho said:

I guarantee you that the launch boats will not be affordable. That will come later, after making a splash with flagship models. First aluminum, then glass.

I've stated on here before I have no business experience or business sense at all, but wouldn't it make sense to have your launch boat be affordable so you can sell more and get more people talking about your product? Or is this backwards thinking? In my tiny little brain it makes perfect sense, but maybe that's why I'm not a businessman.

J Francho reply :

You're laying the groundwork for perception. First impression will not be "entry level." This is supposed to be ground breaking: an aluminum boat with glass bits. Seriously, look at the link slonezp posted. Do you think any of those features look affordable? Not in a million years.

12poundbass reply :

On 3/16/2018 at 9:12 PM, J Francho said:

You're laying the groundwork for perception. First impression will not be "entry level." This is supposed to be ground breaking: an aluminum boat with glass bits. Seriously, look at the link slonezp posted. Do you think any of those features look affordable? Not in a million years.

I did look at the link he posted and it doesn't look cheap. Wishful thinking on my behalf I guess. I guess we'll see at some point today I believe.

12poundbass reply :

Base price is $32k that includes an 80lb Ultrex and I believe it said 150 G2

The apricot (their color name) boats we saw in the videos goes for $42k.

These have a huge transom compartment so there's no issue with Power Poles you can get them rigged from the factory with Power Poles. What I found interesting is the gas tank is at the center of the boat.

Not too shabby.

punch reply :

So what's groundbreaking, revolutionary, and legendary?

Catt reply :

On 3/16/2018 at 11:17 PM, 12poundbass said:

Base price is $32k that includes an 80lb Ultrex and I believe it said 150 G2

The apricot (their color name) boats we saw in the videos goes for $42k.

These have a huge transom compartment so there's no issue with Power Poles you can get them rigged from the factory with Power Poles. What I found interesting is the gas tank is at the center of the boat.

Not too shabby.

Xpress's X19 Pro /w Yamaha F150LB

$29,995

J Francho reply :

Told you so!

J Francho reply :

Similarly outfitted Pro-V Bass comes in at $45.

12poundbass reply :

They have an 18' 10" one too with a 115 on the back with a base just under $26k so really that's not outrageously expensive is it?

J Francho reply :

Not outrageous, but not Tracker pricing either. Looks like their target is to stay under Lund by a few thousand. Not a bad plan.

JLBBass reply :

Just announced - the Apricot colored boat that we had in the videos is based priced at 31,995..
with the G2, the Ultrex Trolling Motor, HDS 9's front and bow, batteries and Victory Package 42K

^^^that's their 19'10", 95" beam model

slonezp reply :

On 3/17/2018 at 1:53 AM, PolarKraft195Pro said:

Just announced - the Apricot colored boat that we had in the videos is based priced at 31,995..
with the G2, the Ultrex Trolling Motor, HDS 9's front and bow, batteries and Victory Package 42K

^^^that's their 19'10", 95" beam model

The base is about 4k under the Lund 1875 base and higher than everybody else.

Also..."What color is your boat?"

"Apricot!"

Obi_Wan reply :

I like the looks and features, but seems like its a little high priced for a new boat. XPress, as mentioned earlier, comes in a little cheaper and its proven.

JLBBass reply :

On 3/17/2018 at 8:06 AM, slonezp said:

The base is about 4k under the Lund 1875 base and higher than everybody else.

Also..."What color is your boat?"

"Apricot!"

""

“Higher”, unless your a lucky SOB like me!

No buyer’s remorse here guys!

fishnkamp reply :

One thing I keep reading that amazes me "see they are expensive " or "not at a Tracker price" Well order the Tracker with the same engine ( which you can not) and the same 24 volt trolling motor( which you can not) and a power pole( which they say "may void your warranty") and order that Tracker with the same level of electronics( oh I can not)! Instead I have to buy the standard boat and then upgrade to the accessories I wanted to begin with, BUT at my expense! After you have added the cost of these extra expenses to the original cost of that Tracker then compare the prices. I can order the Vexus without the more expensive G2 engine if I want and save money. I can choose what size jack plate I want, add power poles or Talons without "possibly voiding" my warranty. I can equip the rig with the accessories I want, if that is bigger electronics, or choose whatever trolling motor I want I can do it.

So stop with the bull poopy ! The price is not far off an Express if you choose to order it with the same Yamaha motor, electronics, shallow water anchor etc. Yes! It is less than the Lund I sat in several weekends ago and yes it seems they did a better job on waterproofing the storage compartments. That is one complaint about many of the current competitors. Let's give the new guy in town a chance to get some owners and get their feed back. I remember when Phoenix first started making boats. The naysayers were pretty loud back then , even before there was a boat to sit in. It seems to me they did very well in a time when many established boat builders were going under and getting eaten up by one big guy! I have personally crawled all over a 618 Phoenix. I also test drove it on Dale Hollow. I came away

highly impressed with the innovations, fit and finish and handling on the rig. I even got a really good deal on it. Only the uncertainty of my health stopped me from pulling the trigger. I for one will give Vexus a year to establish itself in the market and then go get a ride in one or two. But let's be fair! Compare equally equipped machines!

Cory Doras reply :

On 3/17/2018 at 1:13 PM, fishnkamp said:

One thing I keep reading that amazes me "see they are expensive " or "not at a Tracker price" Well order the Tracker with the same engine ( which you can not) and the same 24 volt trolling motor( which you can not) and a power pole( which they say "may void your warranty") and order that Tracker with the same level of electronics( oh I can not)! Instead I have to buy the standard boat and then upgrade to the accessories I wanted to begin with, BUT at my expense! After you have added the cost of these extra expenses to the original cost of that Tracker then compare the prices. I can order the Vexus without the more expensive G2 engine if I want and save money. I can choose what size jack plate I want, add power poles or Talons without "possibly voiding" my warranty. I can equip the rig with the accessories I want, if that is bigger electronics, or choose whatever trolling motor I want I can do it.

So stop with the bull poopy ! The price is not far off an Express if you choose to order it with the same Yamaha motor, electronics, shallow water anchor etc. Yes! It is less than the Lund I sat in several weekends ago and yes it seems they did a better job on waterproofing the storage compartments. That is one complaint about many of the current competitors. Let's give the new guy in town a chance to get some owners and get their feed back. I remember when Phoenix first started making boats. The naysayers were pretty loud back then , even before there was a boat to sit in. It seems to me they did very well in a time when many established boat builders were going under and getting eaten up by one big guy! I have personally crawled all over a 618 Phoenix. I also test drove it on Dale Hollow. I came away

highly impressed with the innovations, fit and finish and handling on the rig. I even got a really good deal on it. Only the uncertainty of my health stopped me from pulling the trigger. I for one will give Vexus a year to establish itself in the market and then go get a ride in one or two. But let's be fair! Compare equally equipped machines!

Its hard to compare the Vexus to a Ranger aluminum but I went on the Ranger website and "built" a boat with similar options and its right there if not more than the Vexus.

slonezp reply :

On 3/17/2018 at 1:13 PM, fishnkamp said:

One thing I keep reading that amazes me "see they are expensive " or "not at a Tracker price" Well order the Tracker with the same engine ( which you can not) and the same 24 volt trolling motor( which you can not) and a power pole( which they say "may void your warranty") and order that Tracker with the same level of electronics( oh I can not)! Instead I have to buy the standard boat and then upgrade to the accessories I wanted to begin with, BUT at my expense! After you have added the cost of these extra expenses to the original cost of that Tracker then compare the prices. I can order the Vexus without the more expensive G2 engine if I want and save money. I can choose what size jack plate I want, add power poles or Talons without "possibly voiding" my warranty. I can equip the rig with the accessories I want, if that is bigger electronics, or choose whatever trolling motor I want I can do it.

So stop with the bull poopy! The price is not far off an Express if you choose to order it with the same Yamaha motor, electronics, shallow water anchor etc. Yes! It is less than the Lund I sat in several weekends ago and yes it seems they did a better job on waterproofing the storage compartments. That is one complaint about many of the current competitors. Let's give the new guy in town a chance to get some owners and get their feed back. I remember when Phoenix first started making boats. The naysayers were pretty loud back then , even before there was a boat to sit in. It seems to me they did very well in a time when many established boat builders were going under and getting eaten up by one big guy! I have personally crawled all over a 618 Phoenix. I also test drove it on Dale Hollow. I came away

highly impressed with the innovations, fit and finish and handling on the rig. I even got a really good deal on it. Only the uncertainty of my health stopped me from pulling the trigger. I for one will give Vexus a year to establish itself in the market and then go get a ride in one or two. But let's be fair! Compare equally equipped machines!

Fact is all of the "Legendary " is still unproven in the real world. I hope its a successful brand. If all the claims are true, it will force the competition to step up their games and get away from the cookie cutter boats they are putting out.

Glenn reply :

To be clear, the term "legendary" as it applies to these boats, is referring to the owners/employees of the company, and their proven backgrounds. They've been in the industry for decades, and have earned the title.

JLBBass reply :

On 3/17/2018 at 1:13 PM, fishnkamp said:

One thing I keep reading that amazes me "see they are expensive " or "not at a Tracker price" Well order the Tracker with the same engine ( which you can not) and the same 24 volt trolling motor( which you can not) and a power pole( which they say "may void your warranty") and order that Tracker with the same level of electronics( oh I can not)! Instead I have to buy the standard boat and then upgrade to the accessories I wanted to begin with, BUT at my expense! After you have added the cost of these extra expenses to the original cost of that Tracker then compare the prices. I can order the Vexus without the more expensive G2 engine if I want and save money. I can choose what size jack plate I want, add power poles or Talons without "possibly voiding" my warranty. I can equip the rig with the accessories I want, if that is bigger electronics, or choose whatever trolling motor I want I can do it.

^^^I agree^^^...............UNLESS! You get lucky like I did! and this is no bull!!!

No buyer’s remorse here!

shopped Ranger RT188/198, Triton X18, Lund Renegade 1875, and Crestliner VT &PT 18's, and boy am I glad I had patience!

New leftover 2017 Polar Kraft TX195 Pro (19’5”, 96” beam)
Suzuki 140 four stroke (with 6 year warranty!)
Suzuki SS prop
Color matched trailer with chrome wheels
spare tire & wheel
swing away tounge
4 batteries (2 hooked parallel for outboard & electronics, 2 for TM)
Minn Kota onboard charger
Minn Kota Fortrex 80 lb, 52” (probably should have went Ultrex, and still will at end of season)
Lowrance Hook 4 in dash (use for running)
Humminbird Helix 9 GPS SI Mega on dash
Humminbird Helix 7 GPS DI Chirp on bow

After a few upgrades mentioned above, I have $24,200 (after selling Edge TM that came on it ) and that’s including the $250 in gas spent driving.
got lucky and found dealer who needed it sold!

and this boat will go head to head with any I mentioned above, for sure!!!

THAT’S why I decided to drive 1600 miles round trip to get it last month!!!
Boat loaded with that stuff is well over $32,000 ANYWHERE ya shop!
got lucky for sure!

Sometimes you don’t have to pay $32,000+ for a $32,000+ boat

On 3/17/2018 at 10:08 PM, PolarKraft195Pro said:

Obi_Wan reply :

On 3/17/2018 at 1:13 PM, fishnkamp said:

One thing I keep reading that amazes me "see they are expensive " or "not at a Tracker price" Well order the Tracker with the same engine ( which you can not) and the same 24 volt trolling motor( which you can not) and a power pole( which they say "may void your warranty") and order that Tracker with the same level of electronics( oh I can not)! Instead I have to buy the standard boat and then upgrade to the accessories I wanted to begin with, BUT at my expense! After you have added the cost of these extra expenses to the original cost of that Tracker then compare the prices. I can order the Vexus without the more expensive G2 engine if I want and save money. I can choose what size jack plate I want, add power poles or Talons without "possibly voiding" my warranty. I can equip the rig with the accessories I want, if that is bigger electronics, or choose whatever trolling motor I want I can do it.

So stop with the bull poopy! The price is not far off an Express if you choose to order it with the same Yamaha motor, electronics, shallow water anchor etc. Yes! It is less than the Lund I sat in several weekends ago and yes it seems they did a better job on waterproofing the storage compartments. That is one complaint about many of the current competitors. Let's give the new guy in town a chance to get some owners and get their feed back. I remember when Phoenix first started making boats. The naysayers were pretty loud back then , even before there was a boat to sit in. It seems to me they did very well in a time when many established boat builders were going under and getting eaten up by one big guy! I have personally crawled all over a 618 Phoenix. I also test drove it on Dale Hollow. I came away

highly impressed with the innovations, fit and finish and handling on the rig. I even got a really good deal on it. Only the uncertainty of my health stopped me from pulling the trigger. I for one will give Vexus a year to establish itself in the market and then go get a ride in one or two. But let's be fair! Compare equally equipped machines!

Good points all. Especially about giving Vexus time. I still think its a little high for a new to the market boat and I wouldn't put my money into an unproven/untested* boat yet. After a year or two, then all bets are off.

*Unprove/untested - Need to get some firsthand reviews of people actually using the boat. You'll find warts as well as beauty this way.

12poundbass reply :

On 3/18/2018 at 1:32 AM, Obi_Wan said:

Good points all. Especially about giving Vexus time. I still think its a little high for a new to the market boat and I wouldn't put my money into an unproven/untested* boat yet. After a year or two, then all bets are off.

*Unprove/untested - Need to get some firsthand reviews of people actually using the boat. You'll find warts as well as beauty this way.

With the pedigree of all involved at Vexus I'm not so sure there's anything to prove or really test.

Obi_Wan reply :

On 3/18/2018 at 2:21 AM, 12poundbass said:

With the pedigree of all involved at Vexus I'm not so sure there's anything to prove or really test.

I'm not against Vexus. I like the looks of the boat and I hope they do well. I understand their pedigree, but the idea of a part aluminum boat, part fiberglass boat has been tried before and it failed. Hull design is new and different. It may scream on smooth water, but how does it handle the chop? There may not be "lots" to test, but there is somethings about these boats that are yet unproven. Time will tell.

Further North reply :

Looks interesting...colors are a little weird...but that's OK.

One thing I see that I have a question about: It looks like the gunnels dip a bit as they head towards the bow...Am I seeing that accurately?

I had a Crestliner like that and it was an absolute PITA to mount a Terrova up there. The motor shaft was tilted back towards the hull and to prop was pulling down at a slight angle...did not work well at all.

Wound up having a wedge shapped spacer made to level out the base of the trolling motor.

PECo reply :

On 3/18/2018 at 11:38 AM, Further North said:

One thing I see that I have a question about: It looks like the gunnels dip a bit as they head towards the bow...Am I seeing that accurately?

They might, but since the boat appears to sit tail-heavy in the water, it looks fine to me:

It’s strange to me that none of the photos I’ve been able to find show the most unique feature of the boats, which is the shape of the aluminum hull. I’ve often thought, “Why doesn’t anyone make an aluminum hull in the same shape as a fiberglass hull?”

And, yes, I’m aware of the Tracker Avalanche.

Obi_Wan reply :

On 3/18/2018 at 8:23 PM, PECo said:

They might, but since the boat appears to sit tail-heavy in the water, it looks fine to me:

It’s strange to me that none of the photos I’ve been able to find show the most unique feature of the boats, which is the shape of the aluminum hull. I’ve often thought, “Why doesn’t anyone make an aluminum hull in the same shape as a fiberglass hull?”

And, yes, I’m aware of the Tracker Avalanche.

I've wondered the same thing. I've always thought the reason aluminum wasn't made with the same hull as fiberglass was because the light weight would beat you silly going across the water. Maybe I'm wrong. I hope I am. Vexus succeeding would only be good for all of us. good competition is a good thing.

fishnkamp reply :

PECo What exactly do you mean by:

On 3/19/2018 at 2:56 AM, Obi_Wan said:

Why doesn’t anyone make an aluminum hull in the same shape as a fiberglass hull?”

Have you never heard of Express boats? They have been making a fiberglass style pad V hull for decades! Maybe you are only familiar with the lower end of the aluminum boats produced today. Express has what the call their Hyper Lift hull, which is a step pad hull like a fiberglass boat. Go check out this video.

PECo reply :

On 3/19/2018 at 4:31 AM, fishnkamp said:

Have you never heard of Express boats?

My previous boat was an Xpress, so, yes, I’m familiar with them.

Although the Hyperlift hulls are better than the rest of the modified vees out there, they’re definitely not shaped like a fiberglass bass boat hull.

Nitro’s NVT hull is all curves. Xpress’ Hyperlift hull is all flat planes. I’d love to see the shape of the Vexus hull.

Further North reply :

On 3/18/2018 at 8:23 PM, PECo said:

They might, but since the boat appears to sit tail-heavy in the water, it looks fine to me:

It’s strange to me that none of the photos I’ve been able to find show the most unique feature of the boats, which is the shape of the aluminum hull. I’ve often thought, “Why doesn’t anyone make an aluminum hull in the same shape as a fiberglass hull?”

And, yes, I’m aware of the Tracker Avalanche.

It's tail heavy in that configuration...and might be OK...what about other motors?

...not there's anything wrong with a 150 G2...I think I'd enjoy that set-up a bunch...but how does it work when it's not butt-heavy?

On 3/19/2018 at 2:56 AM, Obi_Wan said:

I've always thought the reason aluminum wasn't made with the same hull as fiberglass was because the light weight would beat you silly going across the water. Maybe I'm wrong. I hope I am.

I run an '05 aluminum hulled "bass boat" that certainly doesn't beat me silly going across the water. Even on big water like Lake of the Woods, in a storm...with the throttle all the way to the stop...

No, it's not a typical aluminum bass boat, it's much more like the Lund Pro-V and is a virtual twin to the new Bass Hawk models from Crestliner...and, as above, I'd point folks at the Xpress boat line...Aluminum hulls seem to have gained an undeserved reputation based on a popular, not hardly all-encompassing hull type that seems to drive the lower end of the market...

Blinders work well for horses...not so much for people. probably worth a step back from the edge, and re-evaluation. It's kinda like making a decision on a modern car based on having one from the same company in the 70s or the 80s...the same criteria doesn't apply any more...

J Francho reply :

On 3/17/2018 at 1:13 PM, fishnkamp said:

So stop with the bull poopy!

Seriously? Rope it in. The hull is of a completely different design than either Xpress Hyperlift or Tracker's mod-V. You cannot mount Power Poles, since there is no room for the pumps. The HP restrictions are due to lesser transom structures. You'd have to do without the high end electronics, since they are not on the option list, then purchase and install them separately. You're also paying for human welds, not machine. All this adds up. I wonder if the compartments open easily. The Trackers in the show room were tough as nails to open.

On 3/17/2018 at 1:13 PM, fishnkamp said:

I remember when Phoenix first started making boats.

They were already making boats long before they were "Phoenix." They founders worked for Stratos, and the hulls were from well regarded Bumble Bee line. My friend has a new Phoenix 21, and it is one sweet boat.

https://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_123/phoenix_boats_07.html

punch reply :

On 3/19/2018 at 9:38 AM, PECo said:

My previous boat was an Xpress, so, yes, I’m familiar with them.

Although the Hyperlift hulls are better than the rest of the modified vees out there, they’re definitely not shaped like a fiberglass bass boat hull.

Nitro’s NVT hull is all curves. Xpress’ Hyperlift hull is all flat planes. I’d love to see the shape of the Vexus hull.

Up here in the north country we have NO Xpress dealers. I never see those boats in person.. anywhere. Kinda sad. I keep hearing people say how great they are and I've never seen one in person. It's weird how some boat brands never make up to the northern part of the country. Everyone up here LOVES Lund/Crestliner/Alumacraft deep V's and that's about it.

J Francho reply :

I think it's really because they're made in the south, and Lund/Crestliner in the North.

Obi_Wan reply :

On 3/19/2018 at 12:45 PM, Further North said:

I run an '05 aluminum hulled "bass boat" that certainly doesn't beat me silly going across the water. Even on big water like Lake of the Woods, in a storm...with the throttle all the way to the stop...

No, it's not a typical aluminum bass boat, it's much more like the Lund Pro-V and is a virtual twin to the new Bass Hawk models from Crestliner...and, as above, I'd point folks at the Xpress boat line...Aluminum hulls seem to have gained an undeserved reputation based on a popular, not hardly all-encompassing hull type that seems to drive the lower end of the market...

Blinders work well for horses...not so much for people. probably worth a step back from the edge, and re-evaluation. It's kinda like making a decision on a modern car based on having one from the same company in the 70s or the 80s...the same criteria doesn't apply any more...

I'm not wearing blinders. I've been in more aluminum boats than fiberglass. I know more people that have moved from aluminum to fiberglass than the other way. I always hear two things. 1. Its lighter, so the wind pushes us around more. and 2. Is lighter and flat so it beats me to death in the chop. Growing up we went from fiberglass to aluminum. The ride was rougher. May not be today, but it was then and a light flat aluminum will ride rougher than fiberglass.

You're comparing two different designs. a deep V aluminum will not ride the same as a mod v aluminum boat. I'm aware of this and if I had all the money in the world to buy any boat I wanted, I would buy the Lund Pro V Bass 2075. Polar Kraft also makes a different hull design that would ride well in choppy water.

Further North reply :

On 3/20/2018 at 6:45 AM, Obi_Wan said:

I'm not wearing blinders. I've been in more aluminum boats than fiberglass. I know more people that have moved from aluminum to fiberglass than the other way. I always hear two things. 1. Its lighter, so the wind pushes us around more. and 2. Is lighter and flat so it beats me to death in the chop. Growing up we went from fiberglass to aluminum. The ride was rougher. May not be today, but it was then and a light flat aluminum will ride rougher than fiberglass.

You're comparing two different designs. a deep V aluminum will not ride the same as a mod v aluminum boat. I'm aware of this and if I had all the money in the world to buy any boat I wanted, I would buy the Lund Pro V Bass 2075. Polar Kraft also makes a different hull design that would ride well in choppy water.

The problem with the "typical", broad brush perception of aluminum boats...is that it ignores the non-typical aluminum boat.

My boat is somewhere between a deep-V and a mod-v...and it does not get pushed aorund in the wind, nor does it beat me up in the chop.

Not even close.

The Pro-V Bass, the new Bass Hawks, the old CMVs, Xpress boats (I think) and it sure looks like the new Vexus, along with some other aluminum hulls out there, don't deserve to get painted with the Mod-V brush...

One size doesn't fit all, and it sure seems like that's where most folks go, without pausing to think...

Just a perception...could be wrong...

Fishing Rhino reply :

What I don't get is the name, Vexus (Vex us)

vex

[veks]

VERB

make (someone) feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried, especially with trivial matters.

"the memory of the conversation still vexed him" ·
[more]

synonyms: annoy · irritate · infuriate · anger · incense · inflame · enrage · irk · chagrin · exasperate · madden · pique · provoke · nettle · disturb · upset · perturb · discompose · put out · try ·
[more]

JLBBass reply :

On 3/20/2018 at 9:32 AM, Further North said:

The problem with the "typical", broad brush perception of aluminum boats...is that it ignores the non-typical aluminum boat.

My boat is somewhere between a deep-V and a mod-v...and it does not get pushed aorund in the wind, nor does it beat me up in the chop.

Not even close.

The Pro-V Bass, the new Bass Hawks, the old CMVs, Xpress boats (I think) and it sure looks like the new Vexus, along with some other aluminum hulls out there, don't deserve to get painted with the Mod-V brush...

One size doesn't fit all, and it sure seems like that's where most folks go, without pausing to think...

Just a perception...could be wrong...

All mod v's aren't created equal. Like stated, some manufactures make some models of mod v's that have a pretty good "V" in the front.

Picture of a Polar Kraft 195 front below. Resembles the newer Tracker "Revolution Mod V" hull. Handles rough water well.

Further North reply :

On 3/21/2018 at 1:54 AM, PolarKraft195Pro said:

All mod v's aren't created equal. Like stated, some manufactures make some models of mod v's that have a pretty good "V" in the front.

Picture of a Polar Kraft 195 front below. Resembles the newer Tracker "Revolution Mod V" hull. Handles rough water well.

Yup.

...just one more reason why "broad brush" application of what some folks think they know about aluminum boats is wrong...

Catt reply :

Rough ride? Beat you to death? Huh ????

A-Jay reply :

On 3/21/2018 at 7:40 PM, Catt said:

Rough ride? Beat you to death? Huh ????

Nice clip - very nice rig.

But that's not "huge water" ~ Barely a 1 foot chop.

Clearly few rigs 'ride' well in actual huge water (meaning if the horizon is disappearing every 2 or 3 seconds),

Just call if like it is.

A-Jay

PECo reply :

I used to take my 18-1/2 foot deep-vee out in six-foot swells. On those kind of days, I wouldn’t even leave the ramp in my 18-1/2 foot fiberglass bass boat.

That said, I don’t understand the direction of this discussion. Pi$$ing contests are dumb.

My ideal bass boat would have an aluminum hull in the shape of a good fiberglass bass boat hull. I like aluminum, because I think it has better characteristics for the way I use a boat. In other words, I tend to hit stuff.

I was hoping Vexus would offer that, but am not sure it does.

J Francho reply :

On 3/21/2018 at 9:21 PM, A-Jay said:

But that's not "huge water" ~ Barely a 1 foot chop.

Here's some Great Lakes action. First are those 2 footers that are like 25' long. They're rougher than they look. Next is what can kick up in minutes.

12poundbass reply :

Here's some @A-Jay waves.

A-Jay reply :

On 3/22/2018 at 12:15 AM, 12poundbass said:

Here's some @A-Jay waves.

True - but I'm not launching the Lund in anything close to that ~

That's a ton of fun in the right rig though -

A-Jay

Obi_Wan reply :

On 3/20/2018 at 9:32 AM, Further North said:

The problem with the "typical", broad brush perception of aluminum boats...is that it ignores the non-typical aluminum boat.

My boat is somewhere between a deep-V and a mod-v...and it does not get pushed aorund in the wind, nor does it beat me up in the chop.

Not even close.

The Pro-V Bass, the new Bass Hawks, the old CMVs, Xpress boats (I think) and it sure looks like the new Vexus, along with some other aluminum hulls out there, don't deserve to get painted with the Mod-V brush...

One size doesn't fit all, and it sure seems like that's where most folks go, without pausing to think...

Just a perception...could be wrong...

I guess I wasn't clear enough in the beginning with my comments.

"I've always thought the reason aluminum wasn't made with the same hull as fiberglass was because the light weight would beat you silly going across the water. Maybe I'm wrong. I hope I am."

I have no beef with aluminum boats. As a matter of fact a Lund Pro V Bass is what I consider the ideal boat for me. I am very impressed with the PolarKraft boats and the XPress boats. I am about to get a fiberglass boat knowing that I will eventually trade it for an aluminum boat. I was trying to say what I hear and the "broad brush strokes" I've been told. I said I hope I was wrong and I guess I am.

Fishing Rhino reply :

Once we got past the bar, it looked like this.

JLBBass reply :

On 3/21/2018 at 7:40 PM, Catt said:

Rough ride? Beat you to death? Huh ????

Was waiting for the "rough water", but never seen it. Must have been deleted from video...

that there is a calm day on Lake Erie!

punch reply :

Surprised nobody has posted these yet..

12poundbass reply :

On 3/22/2018 at 12:19 AM, A-Jay said:

True - but I'm not launch the Lund in anything close to that ~

That's a ton of fun in the right right tough -

A-Jay

I see we have a difference of opinion on what fun is. ????

Catt reply :

Yea I've heard all the talk about the Great Lakes & how rough they get & they do!

But none of y'all don't deal with boat lanes!

Every video shows the boat hitting the waves at the optimal angle something you can not do in boat lanes.

This is what's under the surface of Toledo Bend, see that little green dot on top of the white pole? That's a buoy marker in the center of a boat lane running left to right in the picture. At normal water level those stumps are about even with your lower unit!

You stuck hitting waves at whatever angle the boat lanes run!

Way north bass guy reply :

I’ve run a Lund pro v 1900 and now run a Smokercraft pro mag ( deep v) quite a bit on Georgian Bay. When you’re on the “outside”, which is the main part of the bay out from all the islands/shoals, it can get snarly. I’ve trolled in 12’ rollers that when you drop to the bottom of the trough, you’re literally in a huge bowl of water. My boat has a deep enough front that it cuts the smaller stuff and it just climbs over the larger ones. I couldn’t imagine ever trying to head out there with any sort of bass style hull, either aluminum or glass. Used to see lots of guys spearing waves on Simcoe with larger bass boats while I cruised along nice and dry in the Lund. Most boats are built for certain conditions, doesn’t mean you can’t use them in non optimum conditions, just gotta use common sense and drive a bit different.

Further North reply :

On 3/21/2018 at 9:44 PM, PECo said:

My ideal bass boat would have an aluminum hull in the shape of a good fiberglass bass boat hull. I like aluminum, because I think it has better characteristics for the way I use a boat. In other words, I tend to hit stuff.

Nailed it...

slonezp reply :

On 3/22/2018 at 5:47 AM, Catt said:

Yea I've heard all the talk about the Great Lakes & how rough they get & they do!

But none of y'all don't deal with boat lanes!

Every video shows the boat hitting the waves at the optimal angle something you can not do in boat lanes.

This is what's under the surface of Toledo Bend, see that little green dot on top of the white pole? That's a buoy marker in the center of a boat lane running left to right in the picture. At normal water level those stumps are about even with your lower unit!

You stuck hitting waves at whatever angle the boat lanes run!

I welcome you to come visit the Fox Chain of Lakes in Northern IL, my home water. Busiest inland waterway per acrew in the United States. With areas nicknamed The Washtub, and Suicide Alley, navigation can be a bit hairy at times. The Washtub is a stretch of river a number of miles long that may be 50 yards wide at it's narrowest and 100 yards or so at its widest. No speed limits or size restrictions. Most of the shoreline is steel seawalls. Waves have nowhere to go but back and forth every which way. It's real easy to get stuck in a boat wake while "staying with traffic"

While not a typical weekend, the traffic here is insane from Memorial weekend to Labor Day

Further North reply :

On 3/22/2018 at 4:09 AM, punch said:

Surprised nobody has posted these yet..

For $32K...seems like it's well more than "affordable".

I like it.

Further North reply :

On 3/22/2018 at 9:21 AM, slonezp said:

I welcome you to come visit the Fox Chain of Lakes in Northern IL, my home water. Busiest inland waterway per acrew in the United States. With areas nicknamed The Washtub, and Suicide Alley, navigation can be a bit hairy at times. The Washtub is a stretch of river a number of miles long that may be 50 yards wide at it's narrowest and 100 yards or so at its widest. No speed limits or size restrictions. Most of the shoreline is steel seawalls. Waves have nowhere to go but back and forth every which way. It's real easy to get stuck in a boat wake while "staying with traffic"

While not a typical weekend, the traffic here is insane from Memorial weekend to Labor Day

I'm pretty sure that if I had to deal with that kind of traffic again...I wouldn't fish.

I grew up just over the border in Wisconsin's "Southern Lakes" area...Lake Geneva, Delavan, Lauderdale Lakes...In the latter part of my teens and early 20s, we lived on Lauderdale Lakes...it's part of why I quit fishing back then...

Having to get up at zero-dark-thirty to get even a sliver of something resembling peace and quiet...and you hadd be off the lake by 9:00 if you didn't want to risk getting run over by some knuckle dragging cretin enjoying his third post-breakfast beer while driving his Water Camaro way-the-heck-too-close to fishermen.

I chipped more than one shiny fiberglass hull with a 1 oz. Daredevel...Not worth it.

slonezp reply :

On 3/22/2018 at 9:51 AM, Further North said:

I'm pretty sure that if I had to deal with that kind of traffic again...I wouldn't fish.

I grew up just over the border in Wisconsin's "Southern Lakes" area...Lake Geneva, Delavan, Lauderdale Lakes...In the latter part of my teens and early 20s, we lived on Lauderdale Lakes...it's part of why I quit fishing back then...

Having to get up at zero-dark-thirty to get even a sliver of something resembling peace and quiet...and you hadd be off the lake by 9:00 if you didn't want to risk getting run over by some knuckle dragging cretin enjoying his third post-breakfast beer while driving his Water Camaro way-the-heck-too-close to fishermen.

I chipped more than one shiny fiberglass hull with a 1 oz. Daredevel...Not worth it.

When I fish that stretch of river on the weekends, I head back up north no later than 11am. It's downright dangerous during a summer afternoon.

Those videos show the boats travelling in one direction for the run. It's even worse on a normal summer weekend when you have boats running both north and south.

Further North reply :

On 3/22/2018 at 10:31 AM, slonezp said:

When I fish that stretch of river on the weekends, I head back up north no later than 11am. It's downright dangerous during a summer afternoon.

Those videos show the boats travelling in one direction for the run. It's even worse on a normal summer weekend when you have boats running both north and south.

THere's entire days when I don't see as many boat as in that few minutes of video...

Catt reply :

@slonezp Boat lanes are 30-40' wide, that's all the room you have to adjust to waves. Most boat lanes follow river/creek channels which means they aint running north/south or east/west.

slonezp reply :

On 3/22/2018 at 10:34 AM, Further North said:

THere's entire days when I don't see as many boat as in that few minutes of video...

I know. I spend time fishing Lake Wisconsin every year. Same acreage as the Fox Chain. If the walleye or whites aren't running, I might see 40 or 50 boats all day.

J Francho reply :

Apparently Sea Ark released a boat as well. This is somewhere around $40K w/ 200hp. It's a stepped hull, similar to Xpress' Hyperlift. Looks pretty nice.

http://seaarkboats.com/boat_models/view/123

Further North reply :

On 3/22/2018 at 11:10 AM, slonezp said:

I know. I spend time fishing Lake Wisconsin every year. Same acreage as the Fox Chain. If the walleye or whites aren't running, I might see 40 or 50 boats all day.

If it helps any, you're welcome here any time...

On 3/22/2018 at 10:09 PM, J Francho said:

Apparently Sea Ark released a boat as well. This is somewhere around $40K w/ 200hp. It's a stepped hull, similar to Xpress' Hyperlift. Looks pretty nice.

http://seaarkboats.com/boat_models/view/123

Cool! I've never seen a Sea Ark that could be considered fragile.

JLBBass reply :

On 3/22/2018 at 4:09 AM, punch said:

Surprised nobody has posted these yet..

I have yet to see a good picture of the underneath of bow front? From pictures/videos I've seen so far, it doesn't look like it has much of a "V" up front..........hard to tell...???

Fishing Rhino reply :

What is "fiberglass infused aluminum"? Is it more than just advertising jargon?

Way north bass guy reply :

On 3/25/2018 at 1:31 AM, Fishing Rhino said:

What is "fiberglass infused aluminum"? Is it more than just advertising jargon?

Almost sounds like some sort of health shake.

fishnkamp reply :

"Fiberglass infused" refers to an aluminum hull and deck with a fiberglass console, fully finished fiberglass storage boxes under each storage door, a fiberglass recessed trolling motor pedal box with tool holders etc. If you watch and listen to the videos posted above the answer is obvious. It is not some new age creation, it is a nice mixing of each material in order to elevate the final product beyond the ordinary aluminum bass boat. The storage boxes, livewells, battery compartment and such are nicely finished, just like the Ranger fiberglass boats were always done.

I have not seen one in person yet, but from what I have seen so far I am impressed by where they are headed.

Vexus Boats? 2024

related Bass Boats Canoes Kayaks topic

previous topic

next topic

most viewed Bass Boats Canoes Kayaks topic