Hi everyone,
I have read some threads similar to this but wanted to see if anyone had any additional feedback. Looking to upgrade from my 2003 tracker panfish (stick steer) to something bigger and more comfortable. I fish on Lake of the Ozarks, so the current boat limits my options to our large cove and some other nearby coves and points within a couple of miles. I would like to have the ability to fish more areas within a 10 mile radius of our place (outside of the hectic Saturdays where any fishing boat would get tossed around in). I already have a slip and lift, so the boat would rarely get trailered.
Preferences:
18-19 ft tin with 115 4 stroke (Ranger, Tracker, Lowe or Xpress)
- Would all of these ride pretty similar? I have heard great things about Xpress, and would there be a noticeable difference in rougher water?
While I originally had my mind set on a aluminum model, I have seen some appealing Triton 179 (18.5 ft) and Nitro Z-7 with either 115-150 motors. Would there be a big advantages in the ride with one of those fiberglass models vs a Ranger RT188 or Tracker 190? I'm also pretty set on a 4-stroke, and it seems like most of those models in my price range are equipped with an optimax, but can wait and find some with a 4-stroke.
Dream boat would eventually be a Lund Pro V or Crestliner Bass Hawk, but that will have to wait for a future time when the used prices become more affordable.
Please let me know if you have any feedback to share!