Thoughts on Crestliner Storm 1600/1700

[BaileyISBassin]

Hey guys, new to the site but I had a question for all of you long time boaters. What are your thoughts on Crestliner as a brand and specifically the Storm series? I’d like to upgrade the 45 lb thrust motor to a 65 lb and I’m thinking I want a 50 hp motor. I live in Ohio and plan to fish mainly inland lakes but I would like to ocassionally take it out on some of the bay areas of Erie. 

[BassNJake]

I have a 2003 Crestliner CX 1650

It has a 25hp on it.

I also have a MK maxxum 101 trolling motor. (36V)

I used to take it to fish the Presque Isle bay and even snuck out onto the big lake when it was calm like glass.

 

If there was a lot of traffic in the bay, I'd get bounced around.

 

I wouldn't get less than 50hp and would definitely get at least the 65lb thrust.

 

Never had an issue with the boat itself and would not hesitate to get another Crestliner, thing is built like a tank

[GreenPig]

I've got a friend that has the 1600 and it fishes just fine. He powered his with Mercury 4 stroke 25hp(lake hp restrictions) and it just will plane off with us and tackle so stepping up to the 50 would be a good idea. The compartments are not water proof. I'd definitely look into the Command Thrust 50 hp with the larger gearbox/prop for better control at slow speeds. His boat with the tiny prop is squirrelly at slow speeds. 

[J Francho]

I had a 15' Sea Nymph that came with a 25.  We repowered with a 50, and that was perfect.  Crestliner is a very good moake.

[TnRiver46]

My buddy just had to replace the transom in his deep v but he still loves it. He said some of the screws went down through the cap from the top and let water in. So when replacing he drilled some new holes in the back. 

[jelzbeck]

I have the storm 1700 and I really love the boat as a hole my boat has a mercury 60 on it and is very good on fuel. 

[rtwvumtneer6]

On 3/1/2020 at 3:45 PM, jelzbeck said:

I have the storm 1700

I'm trying to find one to look at.  Have seen a few reviews that the rod lockers won't fit anything over 7'.  Any truth to this?

 

Did you upgrade the trolling motor, or is the 45lb efficient for you?

 

Most of my local lakes are 20hp Max or electric only. 

 

Thanks!