lLarry,

Good Point. I will try to remember that.
Russ

Something to also consider...having had a boat stolen and with the dollar value of the new rigs...having a LoJack device installed so if it is stolen it can be tracked to nail the dirtbags who took it!

If money wasn't an issue, I'd buy a Skeeter 201-I with a 300 HPDI, I've seen one and it is the most streamline bass boat I've had the opportunity of touching with all the trimmings, a very well thought out lay out.

Don't believe all the statements about E-tecs. I'm not saying don't buy one, just ask a few mechanics before making a decision.

How about an Evinrude E-TEC engine on a Ranger, that's where I'm currently leaning. No run-in time, no scheduled maintenance for 3 years, great Emissions ratings etc.... and loads of power, lighter than a Verado too.

y2says you could always sell your boat on your own.  prabably get more $.  Even though it is a pain in the @ss.

Smitty...I knew you were going to say that.

Rob...I'm leaning towards new unless I find a really nice used one for a real good bargain.  The only problem is I need to trade in my boat, so I'll have to buy the used one from a dealer.

Y2, You need to talk to me about a Stratos 294 with a 200 Mercury Optimax at the next meeting.   I think I can get you into the boat you want.

Smitty

What's your price range Says? Used or New?

About the boat speed thing...Just a guy a thing...guys like things with "more power." Fun to blow a guy in his Ranger up the Sanpoil like Mike and I did this summer.. He went blowing by us while we were fishing and we put the rods up and decided to blow past him. The look on his face as we waved.

If you look at bass boats, they are all fishing platforms on racing boats. It always has and always will be that way. Drag race to your spot...then fish. Good stuff!

Here's my criteria...has to fit my garage, 18-19ft with a 175-200hp, dual console, plenty of storage room, rod organizer that can hold a 7'6" flipping stick (that I don't have yet).  I'm not to worried about speed, but ride quality is important and keeping me and my passengers dry.

DR,

The only reason where speed is a factor is when you have to get somewhere in a hurry and the more you have the better it can be when weigh in times are a factor or you need to run up river to fish a spot for a few minutes and then run to your next spot. As far as overall, 65-70 is okay.
Russ

Just curious, but why are us bass guys so hung up on speed.  I've got a boat that will go about 70, but in all honesty I rarely go over 55.  I've never seen, or been in a situation where speed or lack of speed had an real bearing on how I did that day.  I mean, honestly.  Yeah, it's fun sometimes, but I think some people (especially those new to bass fishing or looking to buy a bass boat) think that how fast the boat is should be a serious consideration.  I'm just not seeing it.   

Russ.
Here to throw a curve. How about a Blazer. Great looking boat and C&O Marine sells them in Tn. Very reasonable price for what you get, BTW and fast. With a 250zx true 80+.
John

Don't let the fact that the Stratos dealer is in Nampa scare any of you away.  Angler's Marine in Spanaway, the same folks who gave the maintenance presentation at last month's meeting,  is an authorised Stratos Repair Center.  Not that you'll ever need a repair, but it's there anyway.  They might also be a Champion Repair Center.

Smitty

Just like cars...so many to choose from.  I too am in and out of the market.  I haven't been in a real bass boat yet, but have done research on them.  I like the looks of the stratos and tritons, but I like the fact that skeeter is so local if there is a problem.