Looking at a few 17 foot boats, would appreciate everyone's opinions...Primarily for bay fishing, but would like to be able to venture to the islands if the weather permitted...Whaler? Mako? etc.

i would stay away from sea pro , i just got rid of my 2003 17' i was not happy with it at all , subpar wiring , cracked gell coat in only 6 weeks (not covered) very difficult to do any work on due to its 2 piece construction and a wet ride . i just bought an 18' parker but have not had it long enough to give an honest review other than it was not inexpensive , good luck

I've got a great 19' Whaler for sale.....very sturdy boat....PM me if interested....

I would look at deadrise and beam, the 17' whaler is a skinny platform and a very wet ride. Try the bay bolt series by hydra-sports.

I looked at Aquasport 175's a couple years ago and really liked them. They're laid out nicely and are versatile as well. Other than that, a lot of boats in that class were fairly similar in layouts.

Take a look at the Grady White 18. Bib boat for that size that will give you offshore ability.

I have a 20' Aquasport and love it. Been out around the Elizabeths from Onset and from Plymouth to Cohasset. Can be a wet ride if you are heading into a strong enough wind. Probably the same with any boat.......

buy something bigger. 17 seems big enough but its really not depending on what you are doing. I would say that 20 would be good.

buy something bigger. 17 seems big enough but its really not depending on what you are doing. I would say that 20 would be good.


I agree, go 19-20Ft. And afer you get one you'd be wanting a 22-23. It is a vicious cycle and sickness. :rotf3:

You might want to look at the 20 ft Polar, you will get more for you money than most higher end fiberglass boats. The boat is laid out awesome.

We also had a 20 ft Lund Alaskan which is a great boat for bay and a little offshore, depending on weather. Very seaworthy boat!!

I have two budysa that have 17' Henery O's They are a great boat!! they take the water beter then my 20' wellcraft!!

But finding one is the real trick! They are hard to find.

Where can I find info on these boats? Any info would be great.
Thanks
Matt

They are a very hard boat to come by. Will ask my friend were to get the info?? I think he told me that they were made by Taylor Mfg ??

The 2nd guy I know just bought his this summer off Ebay and had to drive to CT to pick it up. He loves it and says it is worth every penny!! Has fished the Vinyard many times this year already and out side Chatam.

Where can I find info on these boats? Any info would be great.
Thanks
Matt


Go to
www.thehulltruth.com
You can find all the info and ask all the questions you want!

My 19 foot Lund ProV is for sale still $10,900, it's a great all around bay boat and it really handles the seas well. It's a wet boat if it's blowing and your not heading up-down wind, but in a small chop you can open it up and do 42 without getting soaked. The 130 Honda 4-stroke is a sweat engine only about 248 hours, turn the key and go, quite and have you seen the price of gas:).

Thanks for the advice I will have to do some research.
Thanks
Matt

I moved up this spring from a 16' tin boat to an 18' Parker. Very happy with the boat. Solid and economical with a 115 HP 4 stroke. This past month I have made runs over to Cuttyhunk and the Elizabeth's from Westport. However you do need to pick your days.

I looked at them all this past winter. Grady $$$, Jones Brothers, Hydrasport, etc.

I suggest that you take some out for a sea trial and see what you like.

I went to the hull truth website before I bought mine. Could not find anything negative about a Parker or Jones Brothers.

18 Parker. simple design with rugged fishability.

Go w/ the Parker. I have a 2004 23se and love it. Simple, no frills fishing platform. Get trim tabs, makes a world of difference on smaller boats. Tom @ Don's Marine in Tiverton has some leftovers. They have awesome service.

I need to get rid of a 24 foot sport craft.
There is also a tandem trailer under it with 4 flat tires.
Does anyone know if there is a boat junk yard ?

I wish I knew of a boat grave yard!! I strip it like crazy!!

As for the Henry O they do not sell them any more :crying: They are a great boat!!
If you ever see one for sale take a look at it! Even if you have a boat already. They are very well made and take the water great!

Thanx for the advice..I ended up getting a great deal on an older whaler. It is 17', it came with a 90 Johnson, garmin fish finder, new battery, trailer, and all ready to fish. I'm taking in out tomorrow morning for the first time, I'll hopefully post a picture of my keepers.