Boat Debate?

G-Ko · Post by **G-Ko** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 10:23 am

I am currently in the market for a new or slightly used boat (1year old). I have done a lot of research on all the different boats and was looking for opinions. I want a 20ft boat, and I the players that have stayed on the cut so far are Skeeter 20I, Triton 20X2, & Ranger z-20.

I know represented owners of each will usually start a nice bashing debate of who's faster and mines so much better, but I am really not trying to start that. Looking for anything that can separate one boat from another.

Any positive or negative opinions about a boat, whether you own, or have riden in. I also am taking suggestions on other boats, but within those companies only.

Thanks in advance.

Greg Kosich

Steve Ericksen · Post by **Steve Ericksen** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 10:34 am

What qualities are most important to you? Speed, rough water capability, deck & storage space etc.

I have a 2003 520 and can say that I'll probably never own anything but a 520 again or something very similar if they happen to go out of production.

NaCl · Post by **NaCl** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 10:37 am

You might want to check on the warranty for those other boats. Also, Bass Cat has won the JD Powers Award for customer satisfaction for the third consecutive year. If you're not including Bass Cat in your list, then your research is incomplete!

http://www.basscat.com/

.....NaCl

Skeeterman · Post by **Skeeterman** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 11:06 am

G KO, The best thing to do is go talk to the guys that are sponsored by the boats that you are intrested in. They will take you out on the water to try them out and tell you all about the boat. They will let you run the boat if you want to.The boats that you are debating on are the best on the maket today the only thing you have to do is pick the one thats best for you what you will be comfortable for you.Also these guys at the end of year sell thier boats to get the new ones. you can get very good deals on them plus warrantys still start the same like buying a brand new one. God luck and let us know what you got.

ash · Post by **ash** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 11:20 am

I would give Damon Witt aka SABP - nutcase name- a call and see

A if he still has his skeeter for sale
B to take you out for a ride in his.

I have a BassKitty and I am slightly scewed to that manufacture, however you didnt ask about the BassCat PUMA that I would recommend.

So from your choice my order would be

Skeeter 20I with a Yamaha
Ranger Z-20

Both of these boats ride great, have an excellent fishing platform and great local service. The Skeeter 20I really is a FlagShip for Skeeter and doesnt handle like the skeeters of yor.

Cooch · Post by **Cooch** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 11:39 am

Hey Greg,

I don' think we git into too much boat bashing here, lot of it's just friendly ribbing. But with all the boats out there, ya sure will get a lot of opions about what is best.

I personally own a Stratos(3 actually), I've ridden in every boat imaginable. For me, the rough water handling, the deck space, the storage, livewell system, were huge issues for me. It fits my style of fishing and it works best for me when guiding. Is it the perfect boat, nope, none of them are.

Your doing the right thing by researching. Getting opinions here is a good step too. Getting in touch with an angler who has a sponsorship is another good option. Keep in mind though, a sponsored guys is gonna tell ya all the good things, the exciting details of that boat. They can take ya out for a test drive to get a first hand feel of the boat. What ya won't get, is any opinions or tips in regards to that boats faults, because as salesmen, they just don't tell ya these facts.

I don't have a boat sponsorship, and I'm not here trying to convince ya ta buy a Stratos. The three you have mentioned are great boats. They have two things in common, name recognition, and they are very expensive, yet very different in many other ways. Recently I have been looking at the Legend boats. They are very nice boats. I road and drove a 19 footer last week, I was pleasantly surprised. I'm now looking for someone with a 21 footer to ride in. They are very simple boats, well built and thought out, without all the expensive bells and whistles. Right now, they have a great price point on them, as they are just now moving into today's bassboat market.

Good luck in your search and investigations. Be thourough and find that boat that is going to make you happy, fits your needs and bring you joy for years to come.

Calistar · Post by **Calistar** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 11:53 am

G-Ko,
I've been in about 3 dozen different boats over the last few years (Rangers, Tritans, Skeets, etc) and in my opinion, the 520 is the way to go (as Steve said). It's like a cadillac out there on the water...there are other good ones, but thats my #1 choice.

good luck,

bigbass111 · Post by **bigbass111** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 12:05 pm

I think you have picked 3 quality boats. I personally would steer more in the direction of the Triton or Ranger. Skeeters resale value is not the best and they're a dime a dozen. If you want speed and manuverability go Triton if you want storage and keel go Ranger. Both boats are plush inside with all the amenaties and style for a top of the line product. Bass Cat would be the 3rd pick to go with, as far as Legend is concerned wait a while and see if they stick. They've got the highest Warranty claims in the market right now (Hull delamination). The boat itself properly built is nice but they still need to work out alot of bugs. My choice 2008 TR 21X with the new X2's cap that is now intergrated into the TR series, a Mercury 250 Pro XS, Bob Hydraulic Jackpate 8'' and a pair of goggles. But thats me I like speed, good luck in your purchase.

G-Ko · Post by **G-Ko** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 1:29 pm

I appreciate everyone's advice and information so far. To answer some of the previous posts in what i am looking for in a boat.

1) is overall rating. by this I mean it is finished nicely, has a great backing in warranty, rides well in rough water, and is going to last me with minimal problems.

2) I do like the team behind bass cat, but their style in a boat just doesn't fit me and is the only reason why they are not in my decision. I realize the 520 is a classic as well, however it is a little to narrow for me. I like space to move around.

3) speed is important, but not determining, I want a boat that runs with the pack, but 1-2 more MPH won't sway me. High 60s low 70s is fast enough for me.

4) I would say that since mostly my dad and i are fishing space with dual console and also back deck space could be an issue.

Other then that I am looking for an all around good clean boat that will last me over the years and something that is backed not only by the company, but that I am glad to support.

Thanks again and thanks in advance for all information and future information

Greg Kosich

Scott D. · Post by **Scott D.** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 1:55 pm

Narrow? Here are the spec comparisons on length and beam:

Skeeter 20i- 20ft2in, 94in beam
Triton- 21 ft, 94 in beam
Ranger 520- 20ft9in, 92 1/2in beam

1 1/2 inches in beam isn't even noticable in my opinion.

As far as attention to detail and fit & finish goes, Ranger hands down. Resale, again Ranger.

MIKE TREMONT · Post by **MIKE TREMONT** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 2:52 pm

I see you "rides well in rough water" right up on top of your wants.

I'm not sponsered by anyone. Champion is a great rough water boat and fishes nicley as well.

Good luck with whatever you decide on.

Leroy_B · Post by **Leroy_B** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 5:07 pm

I just bought a TR-20X2. The boat has a huge front deck. The hull is actually 21'. Tons of storage for rods, tackle, and gear. The Pro XS motor is the way to go. I just sold my other boat with an evinrude, and this thing seems to have tons more torque. The new hull on the X2 boat has an amazing hole shot. On plane in no time. I havnt had it on any rough water yet, but it has a deeper V than some boats and should do great. Im totally happy with this boat. As for top speed, im only seeing 66 mph on gps fully loaded w/2 guys, but i have a 24 p prop and im thinking about trying a 25 or 26 to get a few more mph.

Look at bassboatcentral.com, go to boats for sale click on triton, or any other brand. There are some great deals on their website. Most boats are in other states but may be worth the trip to pick up.

Leroy

Lance · Post by **Lance** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 6:25 pm

I hear really good things about the 20X2 but it is a tad slower. Alot of guys max the hp to 250. I have test drivin one and WOW, thats all I have to say.

I would also wait and look at the 520's, Ranger might have some new changes this year, but not sure.

Thats about it, good luck

getalife · Post by **getalife** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 7:00 pm

K-go, I left you a PM. Go sit in all the boats in your list. Which ever one turns you on will be the boat for you... they are all good choices and yo will not regret buying any one of them.

Rick G · Post by **Rick G** » Thu Jun 28, 2007 7:25 pm

Just happen to know a accountant, non tournament fisherman selling his 2005-520 with less than 30hrs on it for around 35k. Showroom new condition. Give Aaron at Anglers a call. 714-666-2628. Boat is Dk. blue/ white and perfect. Rick G.

bigbass111 · Post by **bigbass111** » Fri Jun 29, 2007 6:23 am

I also have a 20X2 rigged with a Mercury 250 Pro XS. The boat is slower than the typical Triton w/250. My speed loaded w/gear, full gas and livewells is approx 73.5. I really have'nt ran it with a light load so I'm not sure what I really can do. The boat is rigged with a Bobs Hyd 8" jackplate, and a 26 Tempest. I'm only running 5700 rpms out of a possible 6300 but the smaller prop that turns the higher RPM's does the same speed. I've got the 2008 TR-21X with the 21X2's deck coming in soon. This boat rigged with the 250 should run 77-79 loaded. You should really consider the Triton with a 3yr B-B and a Lifetime Hull you cant go wrong. They also have a 19 coming out that is a true 19 keel and can hold a 225hp.

Jim Conlow Sr. · Post by **Jim Conlow Sr.** » Sat Jun 30, 2007 2:22 pm

Get a Legend owner to let you drive his boat, and fish it out of the front seat. Try to pick a day when the wind is howling on Clcearlake or on Franks tract. run it at high speed thru some S turns on the Delta.

On second thought that is probably a bad Idea unles you are already on a very strong anti depressant medicine.

Those who own Legends know that I am telling the unvarnished truth

Ask Gary YAMAMOTO, who bought his legends when any one of the big name bass boat manufacturers would be very pleased to give him a free boat or 10 just so he could be seen driving it.

If you dont at least take the test drive it probably is not a good Idea for you to ever ride in one after you have already bought another brand

Jim Conlow Sr. · Post by **Jim Conlow Sr.** » Sat Jun 30, 2007 2:27 pm

Happy to let you drive my 21 foot Legend

Jim

Jim Conlow Sr. · Post by **Jim Conlow Sr.** » Sat Jun 30, 2007 2:32 pm

I think he should drive the Basscat as well as the Legend.

Of course I have no doubt as to which he will like best. HAR

M. Warner · Post by **M. Warner** » Sat Jun 30, 2007 5:46 pm

I have a 3month old skeeter zx225, speed wise it is faster than the 20I, the I boats run a tad better in rough water, but i have been in 3 and 4 footers with mine and have not been wet yet. They are all really nice boats, all makes and models. The best thing that i could tell you is drive them all, and then make your decision, and try to drive them in rough water. I have always driven a skeeter, and to me its my boat of choice, but if interested in a skeeter, take a look at the zx225, you will get pretty much the same ride, at a tad bit cheaper price.

Nick_Barr · Post by **Nick_Barr** » Sun Jul 01, 2007 12:24 pm

Being able to ride in every single boat that you are looking at would be the best idea. If you are looking for a 20 footer, did you look at the LEGEND ALPHA 199? with a 225 Optimax PROXS?? I know of a couple that are for sale that are BRand NEW for a really good deal. But take Jim's offer at Inland Marine and go test drive a LEGEND. If you want a boat you can stand behind, get a LEGEND, if you need anything, call them up and they will holler somebodies name and you will be on a phone with the person that built your boat themselves. NOW THATS WHAT I CALL FAMILY

-Nick

B Becker · Post by **B Becker** » Sun Jul 01, 2007 8:08 pm

Matt,

I don't want to hijack this thread, but there is no way that your ZX is faster than my 20i......sorry.....both great boats, but be careful what you say

........ok, to stay on topic, I do love my 20i, and I have been in all the boats (except a Legend).....but yes, you do have to go test drive.......I just gave a guy a test drive in my boat Thursday and sold it on the spot.....man, it is only 4 months old......he has a Trition now (21 footer), and he is buying my 20i .......hmmmm.....I guess he was impressed.....I do believe everyone is different.....and 80% of the boat handling is the driver......when you live on Mead, you get pretty good at driving or you stay home

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 12:07 am

Hey G-Ko....

I don't want to hijack this thread.. but, I'd like to offer you a test ride in my Legend Alpha 199 and let you see for yourself. We can go fishing for a day and you'll see what she can do driving and fishing from it.

I see you are in Concord. We can take a trip to the Delta anytime and push this boat to all its limits. I won't break down all the plus's and minues of every boat company... I'll let the boat do the talking for itself.

Drop me an email at editor@basswest.com

bigbass111 · Post by **bigbass111** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 5:44 am

All I can say is Run the boats yourself, Choose what fits you best. Boat owners like myself will try and point you in our direction. The big debate can go on forever. Like in the past 52 days I've taken 5 skeeters on trade for Tritons, 5 Nitros, 2 Rangers and 2 Pro Crafts. There are different stlyes to every boat pic your style.

P.S. I found the 225 Skeeter is faster than the i series (True).
And as far as not getting wet in 3-4 footers is B.S theirs not a bass boat on the market thats not going to get wet in those waves (Sorry but I'm not buying it).

G-Ko · Post by **G-Ko** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 7:26 am

Thanks for everyone's input, each is helpful and recorded in a little spot in my brain to compare. I have looked at Legends, and think they make a good boat, but not exactly what I am looking for. On BassCat I just don't think the boat design fits me.

I have really taken my decision down to the 20x2 and the z-20. i am going to ait for the changes of 2008, and see what deals come up between now and then.

Thanks again to everyone, this forum is great.

Greg

Jim Conlow Sr. · Post by **Jim Conlow Sr.** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 9:40 am

I have over 200 hours on my boat 21 foot Legend and have found no bugs so far.
My only criricism WAS the size of the door on the glove compartment, and I have been told that they have corrected that problem
Accusations of bugs without proof is not a valid argument against the Legend, or any other manufacturer

bigbass111 · Post by **bigbass111** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 10:13 am

As far as bugs go I did'nt mean it as bashing. I fish the BASS southern Opens and spent 2 hrs towing in a 21 legend which had its hull delaminating and taking on water. It was a Texas Pro sponsored by Legend and it was his second hull that delaminated in 10 months. Needless to say he was very upset, to make it worse his traveling partner was using a demo from the factory because his hull delaminated on Lake Fork the week before. Their both team guys from texas, so this was first hand info. The boat from what I saw was really nice and had to run nice due to the size of the keel. I'm only judging the boat from what I have seen and I personally would wait.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 10:49 am

G-Ko - Just do yourself a favor and test ride EVERY major brand of boat. Here they are in alphabetical order. Print them out and check them off after your ride in them.

Basscat
Champion
Legend
Nitro
Ranger
Skeeter
Stratos
Triton

Make sure YOU drive them and be sure you take them out in some pretty decent size water.... Any afternoon will give you decent size waters. Also, make sure you test drive the exact model you plan to get. If you are thinking Z20 then test drive a Z20 and not a 520... the difference can be HUGE.

As for the post about the Legend so called "bugs" - I personally know at least 40 people with Legend boats and not one has had a major problem with the boat. 1 broke a Mercury Optimax bracket.. but, didn't even scratch the boat and the rest have been flawless. Besides that I can give you at least 3 stories of boat problems for every brand of boat above. I get emails bashing boat companies all the time. I don't run them in the magazine.. but, I definitely take notes!

As for the post that says any boat in 3-4 footers is a wet ride. Well, with wind - I have to agree.... however, if you are driving straight into the wind or straight down wind my boat is dry as a bone. Cross wind - any boat is wet because the wind blows the water into the boat from the side.

bigbass111 · Post by **bigbass111** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 11:02 am

I agree with you Tom 100% my post was'nt going to be nagative. All boats have their problems, each and every one of them. So I just gave an example on what I have seen personally. I have seen Rangers, Tritons, Skeeters and so on with Problems this was just something I saw recently. As far as my comment about the wet rides 3-4 footers you read my mind.

Terry Smith · Post by **Terry Smith** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 11:12 am

G-KO, I own A BassCat and would suggest the Cougar are Puma over the ones you have mentioned. But I can understand that you perfer the styling of the other boats that fit your taste.

I would go with Skeeter 20I but the back deck is A little smaller than these other two
Ranger Z 20
Triton 20X2

Good luck on your choice of boats you can't go wrong with any of them.

Terry

big bass beckstrom · Post by **big bass beckstrom** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 11:24 am

Basscat for sure, they are by far the best boats and mossdale will give you great service, they have two 20' 4" models which are the cougar and the puma both rated 200-300HP. I hope this was helpful.

Elliott

Hipster · Post by **Hipster** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 1:19 pm

Forrest puts it plain simple!!

Still building legends one at a time!! (Not those listed below)

Why would you want a Gansta Lookin Boat with dual 20's?

In all truth I find for just plain attractive neat looking boats

"Nitro makes a slick lookin boat"

Get what suits your needs and makes you happy

M. Warner · Post by **M. Warner** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 1:39 pm

sorry Brent, I meant to say that the hole shot is faster, and thats just what i have heard from a few others. So you sold that thing already? Wow, you going to get another skeeter? Anyways, I didnt want to raise any butt hairs there

bigstick · Post by **bigstick** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 2:22 pm

Who are you kidding? Genmar doesn't make anything one at a time!
As far as rippin Basscat as you are prone to do, there is an old saying:
Opinions are like A$$holes, everybody has one and they all STINK!

Gary

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 3:12 pm

EXACTLY - "They all stink" so test drive ALL OF THEM. You are going to spend a lot of money on a boat - don't skip over any because your buddy doesn't own one. Try them all. The right boat will sell itself!

JustinD · Post by **JustinD** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 3:41 pm

All I can offer is the fact that you can phone into BassCat and personally speak to the owner or his son. What other company can offer you that?

Mike Phua · Post by **Mike Phua** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 4:15 pm

Your doing the right thing G-Ko. Always great to do your research. I personally am a Ranger Pro staff member so obviously my opinion will be biased.

The boats you mentioned and the ones that weren't mentioned are all great boats. Personally I have owned a few Rangers and paid retail for them even before I was sponsored by Ranger. I've also owned a Skeeter and a Champion as well. All great boats, but some way or another I kept coming back to Ranger. The fit and finish is second to know one.

Personally I could break all the boats down to you to "Nuts and Bolts" and by the time we peeled the Gel Coat away there would be no disputing on whose boat is made better.

Everywhere you look on a Ranger Z is upgraded over its competitors. The Dash Panels are made of aluminum instead of Plastic like there competitors. Aluminum won't warp or crack keeping your boat looking new for years to come.

Fisherman friendly features like recessed foot pedals, extra cushion for the tournament pad, reinforced fiberglass lids keep the livewells cooler longer, pop up cleats are nice for tying off at the dock, wide beam for extra stability............etc, etc. Go to the Ranger website and you'll see it is very informative. For every feature they show you they will give you a benefit it has for you. By far the most advanced and informative website for Bass Boats today.MP

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 4:39 pm

You guys and your "my boats the best" - -- have my fingers twitching!!!!

But instead - I'll just say it one more time "Drive them all" and let your Spinal Cord decide after a day in each boat. You owe it to yourself to check them all out before you spend over $30-$40-$50 and in some cases $60K for a new boat.

We all have our boats for whatever reason and most of us love them and can give you 100 reasons on why you should buy the boat we drive. For example have you driven every make of car? So how would you know which one is best? Luckily most cars ride the same flat road road tires and incredible suspension even in the worst cars you aren't heading to the chiropractor----- but, boats aren't that similar so you'll need to be smarter when selecting a make and model boat and therefore should educate yourself by testing them all.

I would suggest the following.

Pick a day - lets say a Thursday afternoon 7:00 and a launch ramp - say Russo's marine. Ask for anyone who wants to give you a test drive to meet you there. (There are plenty of guys who are on staff for these boat companies that would gladly meet you out there for a test drive. If not, then the boat companies need to find some new pro-staffers.) Set up times 7:00 have a ranger owner give you a test drive across Franks. 7:10 have a skeeter owner give you a test drive 7:20 Triton, 7:30 Legend, 7:40 Stratos, 7:50 Basscat.... and so on. Then decide for yourself which one is the best. I bet if you made a list right now 1 to whatever and then do it after your test drives you be highly surprised at what you find.

P.S. - I do think my boat is the best like the rest of you... but, what I recommend is to let him let the boat do the talking. I believe in Legend and their boats to the point where I can trust that with his test drives he'll feel the difference.

Also - Yes, I can call Legend and talk to the owner, the plant manager, the national sales manager, the guy who rigs the electronics and batteries, the lady who inspects it before it goes out the door. I can also tell them - it'd be nice to have a handle right here... and guess what 2 months later - Jason Wood ordered his boat and had a handle right there! A nice comfortable handle that won't cut off your circulation on a long ride!

Any other questions?

Jason Wood · Post by **Jason Wood** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 4:51 pm

Tom's right on... Test drive all of 'em... I love my Legend and wouldn't buy any other at this point in time... I'll give you the same offer Tom did, let you drive it or go fer a day of fishin' anytime... I live 10 minutes from Russo's and can go pretty much anytime during the week after 3 P.M. or anytime on the weekend I don't have a tournament...

If you don't buy one, oh well... At least you gave it the opportunity...

Oh yeah, and I also have a Basscat Pantera sittin' in the driveway... Love it too... Just don't need 2 boats!!!

Hipster · Post by **Hipster** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 5:34 pm

If you are calling me an A$$ hole please do it in a private e-mail .

Perhaps you did not notice the smiles etc.

I think Bass cats are ugly!! that's my opinion correct!! the freaking recessed t-motor is placed way to far up!!

OK I will make you happy my Ranger Sucks the fishing platform is not stable, the damn thing never starts, the gel coat has cracks,
the transoms uneven!! NOT!

Gimme a break they all have a plus and minus

All I said was Legends looked like a Gansta Boat, then again I recal Mr. Mendez making that statement about a prize boat (basscat)he was giving away!!!! I took no offense, I was there

Terry Smith · Post by **Terry Smith** » Mon Jul 02, 2007 5:36 pm

Come on guys he has 3 boats that he is interested in. Lets keep it to those 3 and stop trying to sell your/mine boat manufacture.

bigstick · Post by **bigstick** » Tue Jul 03, 2007 6:40 am

I wasn't calling you an A-hole,but if the BP fits

If I said opinions are like elbows, would I be calling you an elbow?

If you want to pimp your ranger

that's fine, but you don't need to rip another manufacturer(like you always do).What's the point

The point I was trying to make is that nobody want's to hear your opinion on a boat you've never owned.

I wouldn't own a ranger but I don't get on here and bash them.

Gary

Phil · Post by **Phil** » Tue Jul 03, 2007 6:49 am

CALL LONG BEACH YACHT SALES IN LONG BEACH. THEY HAVE A 2000 RANGER 522 WITH A 250 MERC ON IT REPO.YOU CAN GET IT FOR $ 18,000 PLUS OUT THE DOOR I AM SURE, WE ALMOST BOUGHT IT JUST TO HAVE IT !!!! MAN 22 FT YACHT !!!!

JIGS

mac (Doyle McEwen) · Post by **mac (Doyle McEwen)** » Tue Jul 03, 2007 7:13 am

I am primarily a backseater and as such I have ridden in a whole lot of different boats, in just about any kind of weather you can imagine..Which boat is best, it is just like Tom says, the one that best fits your needs and desires..Is one brand really all that much better than the others..In todays market, I don't think so..As short as just a few years ago, there was a huge disparity between the products of the various companies..There differences still, but not to the extent they were..The three listed boats you are looking at are all outstanding in their own right..I don't think you would be disappointed with any of them..Then a lot of people threw in some other boat names and guess what, they are also really good..There are still some cheaply made bassboats out there, but for the most part they really are easy to spot..There isn't a single boat that has been talked about that I wouldn't want to own, if I could..The idea of trying them all on test runs and such is an excellent idea and if at all possible you should do so..Truthfully picking the right boat is not as easy a task as it might seem..You can find the one you want and after having it a short time, chances are you will find things you wish were different..It is all relative, you have to find the boat that gives you the most of what you want for the money you have to spend..

mac

drew · Post by **drew** » Tue Jul 03, 2007 8:04 am

I'm also shopping for a new boat. I recently test drove/fished a Legend Alpha 199 w/225 Optimax. This was a perfect example with less then 40hrs and very well maintained. I really like it and I would be more then satisfied with a Legend. It really rode nice, very smooth and stable. With two people and gear it was running in the high sixties, it might top out at 71-72. I believe an equivalent Ranger would cost about $8-10k more, which makes Ranger not an option for me.

Hipster · Post by **Hipster** » Tue Jul 03, 2007 8:19 am

Gary,

its all good as I stated in my messages all boats have plus and minus about them.

I need top stop hijacking this thread Done

As I wrote earlier in the thread

Greg

Get what suits you and makes you happy

Calistar · Post by **Calistar** » Tue Jul 03, 2007 8:47 am

I think anyone who doesn't stick to the topic is an Elbow...

thats right, I said it...

I think he should buy each and every model of boat, drive each for a year and then decide.

Jim Conlow Sr. · Post by **Jim Conlow Sr.** » Wed Jul 04, 2007 10:16 am

I think bad resin or some worker error must have been the cause of those problems coming so close together. That problem can happen to anyone, or any manufacturer.
I have been to the Legend shop where they build the boats and have observed the building process. As a licensed general contractor with ovr 55 years of experience and as an expert witness 22 years of investigating construction defects, and testifying in such cases. I can testify that no one is perfect. (EVEN ME, if thats possible for you to believe. HAR). What I saw at the Legend plant tour was a group of dedicated high quality craftsmen with a great attitude, who were proud of their work, and loved showing it off.
Flaws that sometimes show up are unfortunate, but as we all know STUFF happens.
Yes I drive a sponsored Legend and yes I am predjudiced, but my predjudice is based on what I honestly and sincerely believe.
What I believe after having fished in almost every brand of boat for several years as an Am and recently as a co angler, is that Legend builds the finest bassboat on the market. Knowing what I now know if I were buying a boat and was not sponsored I would without question or hesitation buy the Legend. I have talked to many other Legend owners who feel exactly the same way.

gabuelhaj · Post by **gabuelhaj** » Wed Jul 04, 2007 11:04 am

What about the trailer? I personally wouldn't buy any boat that only offered a tubular trailer frame, galvanized or not. The Ranger trailer and the Bass Cat trailer are the only ones that I know of who offer the I beam trailer frame, which is what you want.

Good luck!

Jim Conlow Sr. · Post by **Jim Conlow Sr.** » Wed Jul 04, 2007 2:06 pm

Starting in 1998 until now, my son and I we have owned 3 Hawks with the same manufacturer of the trailers as Legend I had a 2000 model Hawk and my owned and my son had a 1998, he still owns a 2000 model Hawk. Neither of us has ever had a problem with the trailers.

I much prefer the configuration of my trailer to the Ranger for instance because the Legend trailer gives you a much easier ability to get in and out of the boat when it is on the trailer because it has running boards that you can stand on.

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