Hydrofoil on a bass boat

[PezJunkie]

Anyone put on on there bass boat, how well do they work and what do you get out of them, and what is a good brand to get?

[NBR]

I've used one for over 20 years. It really improves the hole shot. The brand (I think) is a Leading Edge. It is nothing more than an aluminum plate with the trailing edge tipped down a bit. I think it is a great product.

[Long Mike]

I have a set of Dol-Fins (sp) on my 60hp Tracker. NBR is right. The difference in hole-shot is amazing. I think I've gained about three MPH at WOT, but the difference could just be the weather conditions. Also, I've heard that if you have porpoising problems, the hydrofoil will cure them.

A word of caution, if you fish a lake with a lot of stick-ups, the hydrofoil makes a pretty large target.

[DMB Fan]

Agreed! It was the best money I've spent for my boat. Hole shot has improved drasticaly and porposing is nearly gone. Dol-Fin at the the local Gander Mtn.I think people are hesitant to put them because of the drilling you have to do on the motor.

[Uncle Leo]

I have a set of Dol-Fins (sp) on my 60hp Tracker. NBR is right. The difference in hole-shot is amazing. I think I've gained about three MPH at WOT, but the difference could just be the weather conditions. Also, I've heard that if you have porpoising problems, the hydrofoil will cure them.

A word of caution, if you fish a lake with a lot of stick-ups, the hydrofoil makes a pretty large target.

I agree on the porpoising problem. My Nitro was terrible for this until I added a foil. Have broken one backing into a submerged tree also. Has increased my speed by about 3 MPH on the top end. Good investment.

[fishfordollars]

I don't use one on my Skeeter, nor do I need one. I can see how they might help with performance issues.

[NewScreenNameAdvised]

I've got one on a 115 Optimax and noticed slightly better hole shot.  I've heard that as the motor gets bigger, they are less effective.  They're not that expence (as compared to other performance upgrades).

[Splat]

Hpw about Smart Tabs? Any opinions on those?

Bill

[noway]

My boat/motor came with a StingRay stabilizer.  Ran very well.  After having some engine work done, the tech. mentioned that stabilizers are usually a band-aid for other performance issues and suggested that I remove it.  Well I did and lost 10 MPH, about 1700 RPM and boat pulled hard left.  Needless to say I re-installed the StingRay and all is well again.  I suppose I could have worked with the tech. on various motor heights but heck I'm within 2 MPH of MAX top speed.