Goldstar225

I've used both hand control and pedal steer. I've had a maxxum (now use an ultrex) and highly recommend the maxxum if you can't go for spotlock.. It will take very little time for the use of the foot pedal to become instinctive.

I used my interstate batteries for 6 years (24 series crank, 2X 27 series trolling). They were still serving fine and neer let me down but I replaced them as a precaution.

No problem in our household. I won't sneak, that's gutless. Big purchases get discussed. My wife will go out in the boat with me to relax. A couple of years ago I was contemplated getting an Ultrex, agonizing over the expense. My wife knew it. A few days later one showed up in the garage. Without telling me she ordered it for me. How could I refuse?

Congratulations on the boat. It sounds awesome. Now get it wet and catch some fish!

I just replaced my Interstate batteries (starting and deep cycle) after six years of use. They were still performing well but I prefer to replace before failure.

2018 Tracker PT190, 115 Pro XS, with 80# Ultrex Pros: 1. Plenty of room and stability for me, son, and grandson to fish from. 2. More than enough storage for my gear. 3. Easy to tow, launch & load solo Cons: My only gripe is the access to the batteries. It's a pain pulling the front one out to check the water level.

I'm about to replace my Interstate TM batteries. The current ones have given me six years of reliable service. Buying Interstate again.

Huh! I didn't realize that I've been a member since 2009. As you see I don't post very often. Primarily because I don't have much knowledge or ability to share with others. I'm a low ability bank beater who seeks relaxation in the outdoors and the tranquilty of nature. My brothers and nephews are awesome fishermen. One nephew remarked once that I never have a bad fishing trip because it doesn't matter to me whether or not I a catch a bunch. He's right, being out ther is its own reward for me. (Though I do slightly envy and have huge respect for those who can bring them in😁)

I had a 1987 Tracker. It served me well for several years. The wood in the front deck didn't need replacement until it was 27 years old. Do check the condition of the wood though. I now have a 2018 PT190 that I've owned since new, 6 years now. I've been very happy with it and it's never disappointed me in any way. Good luck with the 175 that you're looking at.

As a satisfied tracker owner (on my second one) check the wooden decking for deterioration. If stored properly it will last for a long time (my 1987 didn't need decking replacement until it was 27 years old). If that concerns you I would steer away from Tracker and go with a brand that has no wood. Have the motor thoroughly checked out, repairs get expensive fast.

Nope, not this guy.

As with everything else in life, buy what you can comfortably afford and be content. For some that will be a basic jon boat and 9.9 outboard, for others a 100K+ boat that they can pay cash for. (FWIW even a 40K boat is not in my future?)

My tracker PT190 definitely sits bow high so it catches the wind. Having an Ultrex and choosing to not fish in high wind conditions though makes it a non-issue for me.

I spend many years fishing out of a jon boat with a 9.9 OB until I could afford what I wanted. I had patience, some don't.

Congratulations! Hope you get many years of enjoyment out of it.