Bass & Walleye Boats: Top Guns, Part IV

At Bass &! Walleye Boats, our challenge each year is to build the world's most complete fresh-water fishing-boat Buyer's Guide. The 2002 Top Guns edition was compiled by phone, fax and e-mail, as writers around the country worked to uncover the very best manufacturers have to offer.

In Part IV of this buyers' guide (for the first three installments of the guide, see "Related Items" at right), you'll read about fast boats and expensive boats, slow boats and "value-priced" boats. Our data boxes have been refocused to include rigged weight and trailered weight, two important figures to know when towing. Prices listed include an engine, with the boat on a trailer, unless specified otherwise. And we'll never forget to provide an estimated top speed. Enjoy a tour of the world's best boats. &!#8212; The Editors

Sea Ark

SeaArk ForeCast 170

SeaArk's newest bassboat is designed for convenience. Everything the fisherman needs is right at his fingertips, including some items not normally found on bassboats. The ForeCast 170 is available in single- or dual-console, and provides a definite new choice to bass anglers by presenting a stick-steer model. The ForeCast 170 offers a lot of features without a high price tag. A rather unusual bassboat seating arrangement seats up to three fishermen with the operator's seat and two fishing chairs that can be moved to four different base plates.

The foredeck features access to the 12/24V trolling-motor receptacle, optional radio/tape player, two jig trays, 10-quart insulated ice chest, the 8-gallon aerated livewell and a 51/2-gallon baitwell. Additional features include 71/2-foot rod-storage locker, a deluxe console with windshield, two dry-storage areas and a 12-gallon aerated livewell with a removable minnow bucket in the rear deck.

Plush 20-ounce carpet through-out the boat's interior keeps anglers comfortable for those long stretches they spend on their feet. Other features include a bilge pump, 6-gauge trolling motor wiring, aluminum floor and decks, three battery hold-down trays and deluxe upholstery, along with two flush-mount drink holders, navigation lights, stainless steel bow and transom eyes, plus an aerator pump for the livewells. Non-skid panels on the bow and stern grip your feet for easy walking when fighting fish. Although marketed as a bassboat, the ForeCast will also serve double duty as a walleye boat in the more sheltered freshwaters. &!#8212; Monte Burch

Specifications

Model Name	SeaArk ForeCast 170
Price (with Mercury 50 ELPTO)	$13,495
Estimated Top Speed	34 mph
Maximum Horsepower Rating	75
Length	17'
Beam	71"
Construction	Welded aluminum
Rigged Weight	1,256 pounds
Trailered Weight	1,746 pounds
Fuel Capacity	15 gallons
Livewell Capacity	8 gallons
Load Capacity	4 persons

For More Information

SeaArk Boats
Dept. B&!WB
P. O. Box 803
Monticello, AR 71657
(870) 367-5317
seaark.com

Skeeter

Pictured above is the Skeeter ZX250. Starting from left, photos of all models in this buyers' guide run in alphabetical order.

Bassboats in Skeeter's ZX line are built with tournament fishermen in mind. They have huge fishing decks, oversized storage compartments, rod-organizing systems, dual livewells with a four-pump-control system and cockpit ergonomics designed to ease long runs in rough water. The biggest boat in the line is the ZX250, created last year to handle Yamaha's new 250 VMax engine. The ZX250 owes its impressive speed and handling to a unique hull with stretched sponsons that allow a no-splashwell design. The 21-footer's longer running surface lets a driver ignore surprisingly rough water.

The hull's composite stringers, transom and engine are bolted together through an X-CESS aluminum knee-brace assembly strong enough to support the boat's entire weight. The unitized construction results in great hull strength and an excellent seat-of-the-pants driving feel.

Standard features include hydraulic steering, 12-inch jackplate, a dual-bank battery charger and a MotorGuide or Minn Kota trolling motor with 80 pounds of thrust &!#8212; 10 pounds more than was standard last year.

Also new is the Digital Cockpit Command Center, a backlit, electronic switch panel that connects to a smart distribution box with only four wires. Flip a switch and a digital signal tells the smart box to send power to the accessory of your choice. Skeeter boats are on the water all over the country, even in saltwater bays, but sales are strongest in bass-rich Texas and Louisiana. The Skeeter ZX250 provides tournament-level performance for serious anglers wanting it all in a 21-foot boat. &!#8212; Allan Tarvid

Specifications

Model Name	Skeeter ZX250
Price (with Yamaha VMax 250)	$37,600
Estimated Top Speed	77.8 mph
Maximum Horsepower Rating	250
Length	21'
Beam	92"
Construction	Fiberglass
Rigged Weight	3,298 pounds
Trailered Weight	4,400 pounds
Fuel Capacity	50 gallons
Livewell Capacity	2 at 16 gallons each
Load Capacity	6 persons

For More Information

Skeeter Boats
Dept. B&!WB
One Skeeter Road
Kilgore, TX 75663
(800) 753-3837
skeeterboats.com

Smoker Craft

Smoker Craft 171 Millentia SC

Multispecies anglers might be interested in the single-console 171 Millentia SC from Smoker Craft. The company is very strong in the Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes and other rough-water regions, but the fishability of this craft could appeal to a wide range of fishermen. The single-console model's 91-inch beam and 17-foot, 2-inch length allows for plenty of room to tackle your favorite fish. A dual-console version is also available. The 171 Millentia is clad with a one-piece, 0.100-inch-aluminum bottom that is shaped into a Hydra-lift rolled-V hull. Matched to five bottom keels, the hull design offers quick planing and top-end performance, as well as added strength, handling and tracking &!#8212; all important while trolling, backtrolling, vertical jigging or working a tight fishing area. AIRS (Advanced Integrated Rib System) construction uses a series of transverse ribs along the bottom and longitudinal ribs in the bow for a stronger hull. Double-riveted seams secure the side's aluminum plating to the hull.

Standard features include tachometer, voltmeter, fuel gauge, lighted compass, horn, tilt steering, organized rod storage at port and starboard, two battery compartments, storage in the bow, 60-gallon livewell/baitwell capacity (30 fore and 30 aft), trolling motor panel, curved walkthrough windshield, cupholders. Upgrades include a fisherman's top, mooring cover, seat arms, bass seat, stem and spider. The boat's twice-baked urethane paint comes in black.

The hull has a 10-year warranty, the carpet is covered for five-years, while the treated XL plywood floors have a lifetime warranty. &!#8212; Mark Halvorsen

Specifications

Model Name	Smoker Craft 171 Millentia SC
Price (with Mercury 90 ELPTO)	$15,180
Estimated Top Speed	45 mph
Maximum Horsepower Rating	125
Length	17' 2"
Beam	91"
Construction	Riveted aluminum
Rigged Weight	1,565 pounds
Trailered Weight	1,965 pounds
Fuel Capacity	24 gallons
Livewell Capacity	2 @ 30 gallons
Load Capacity	5 persons

For More Information

Smoker Craft
Dept. B&!WB
P.O. Box 65
New Paris, IN 46553
(219) 831-5900
smokercraft.com

Starcraft

Starcraft Starcaster 1860

Any company that proudly declares that it produced the first metal rowboat has probably been around for a while. In fact, the Starcraft brand has been in business since 1903 (its rowboat was produced in 1920). At 3 years old, the Starcaster 1860 hasn't been around as long as its rowboat predecessor and should appeal to anglers with contemporary needs.
While this boat is similar to its entry-level Pro 754 cousin marketed under its sister brand, Monark Marine, it is tailored for the person who is looking for a bigger welded-aluminum bassboat with tournament performance. The Rise &! Run, modified-V hull is made of 0.100-inch, marine-grade aluminum. It quickly lifts the boat out of the water for a dry ride and improved handling and top-end speed.

Storage under the passenger and driver seat, beneath the bow and stern casting decks, and port and starboard rod lockers keep your gear stowed and ready. Two Rotocast livewells are located fore and aft, and two stern ice wells are installed at port and starboard. Two pedestal seats keep you well rested on the flipping decks.

Other standard features include a NexGen intrument cluster (tachometer, speedometer, fuel and voltmeter), AM/FM/cassette stereo, 12-volt power point for an extra accessory, rack-and-pinion steering, Humminbird Wide 100 fishfinder, MotorGuide 743-42 trolling motor, and an EZ Loader bunk trailer matched to the color of your boat. Standard power is a Mercury 50 ELPTO, although buyers have a choice of other Mercury powerplants. Other choices include a mooring cover and a galvanized bunk trailer. &!#8212; Mark Halvorsen

Specifications

Model Name	Starcraft Starcaster 1860
Price (with Mercury 90 ELPTO)	$15,189
Estimated Top Speed	40 mph
Maximum Horsepower Rating	125
Length	18' 5"
Beam	79"
Construction	Welded aluminum
Rigged Weight	1,800 pounds
Trailered Weight	2,400 pounds
Fuel Capacity	23 gallons
Livewell Capacity	2 at 14 gallons
Load Capacity	4 persons

For More Information

Starcraft Marine
Dept. B&!WB
P.O. Box 517
Topeka, IN 46571
(800) 535-5722
starcraftmarine.com

Storm

Storm 22ST

Who fishes off the back of their boats nowadays? The folks at Storm Boats figure hardly anyone pitches lures off the rear, so they built the 22ST, a fish-and-ski boat that draws a lot of attention around the docks. The boat is designed for anglers who cruise lakes, rivers and intracoastal waterways, a bassboat, flats boat and sport cruiser all in one. All Storm 22ST boats, priced at nearly $50,000 each, are built completely custom.

The Storm 22ST is covered with a non-skid deck surface, and the interior can be fitted with snap-in 40-ounce carpet. That makes cleanup a breeze, either at the docks or on a trailer. Plush upholstery covers the seats, and the boat is designed for cruising with a driver and four passengers. Anglers will like the Lowrance X-65 unit built into the dash, as well as the single front baitwell and dual rear livewells. Access to the livewells and to all storage boxes on the 22ST is excellent.

Other fishing amenities in-clude two rod lockers with racks for 16 rods, retractable rod tie-down straps, lighted storage lockers and built-in Plano tackle boxes for organizing equipment.

Construction materials on the Storm 22ST include a foam-core transom with nine layers of fiberglass, Nida-Core decking and hull coring and a foam-filled stringer system. No wood is used in the boat. The hardware manifest is lengthy, and includes a full complement of either Gaffrig or Medallion gauges in the dash, a transom wash-down, a 2000-gph bilge pump, a Dual Pro battery charger, a Hot Foot throttle and Bennett Hydraulic trim tabs.
&!#8212; Doug Thompson

Specifications

Model Name	Storm 22ST
Price (with 200 hp engine)	$49,900
Estimated Top Speed (with 250 hp)	77 mph
Maximum Horsepower Rating	300
Length	22'
Beam	91"
Construction	Fiberglass
Rigged Weight	1,750 pounds
Trailered Weight	2,850 pounds
Fuel Capacity	50 gallons
Livewell Capacity	30 gallons
Load Capacity	5 persons

For More Information

Storm Boats
Dept. B&!WB
377 S.W. 14 Ave.
Pompano Beach, FL 33069
(800) 336-0520
www.stormboats.com

Stratos

The Stratos 18 XL underwent design changes for 2002, as the entire XL series (from 17 to 21 feet) was refined by designer Alan Stinson. Stinson first designed the XL series in 1991, and the 201 XL model (now the 20 XL) was a favorite of professional angler Larry Nixon. The XL's Radial Vee hull was tweaked this year for greater efficiency, performance and fuel economy, and wood has been eliminated from hull construction. The new XL line features wood-free composite construction and carries a limited-lifetime hull warranty.

The 18 XL comes equipped for professional-level tournament fishing, with standard features such as a Minn Kota or MotorGuide trolling motor, choice of depthfinders, deep livewells and refined rod-and-tackle storage systems. Driver and passenger seats on the 18 XL are thickly padded and help keep passengers feeling safe, with appropriately placed grab handles for additional security.

The 18 XL features a broad front casting deck, as well as a spacious fishing platform off the back of the boat. Off the front of the boat, anglers will find stability while casting from either side, and the trolling-motor foot control can be moved for maximum comfort.
Standard features on the 18 XL include a Lowrance depthfinder, Dual Pro two-bank battery charger, antifog gauges in the dash, lighted rocker switches for accessories and gas-shock assisted lift pistons for the storage boxes and battery hold-down trays.
Options are many, ranging from an 8-inch T&!H jackplate, to upgraded trolling motors, depthfinders, battery chargers and fishing seats. &!#8212; Doug Thompson

Specifications

Model Name	Stratos 18 XL
Price (with 150 hp engine)	$22,338
Estimated Top Speed (with 150 hp)	65 mph
Maximum Horsepower Rating	150
Length	18'4"
Beam	91"
Construction	Fiberglass
Rigged Weight	2,075 pounds
Trailered Weight	3,000 pounds
Fuel Capacity	38 gallons
Livewell Capacity	26 gallons
Load Capacity	4 persons

For More Information

Stratos Boats
Dept. B&!WB
880 Butler Road
Murfreesboro, TN 37127
(800) 493-7266
stratosboats.com

Stroker

Stroker Boats' 21 Dual Console runs more than 100 mph with a 280 hp engine on the back, and only a few changes have been made to the boat for the 2002-model year. Those changes mostly involve the tooling for the molds, and in that area the company has been focusing on making the boats stronger and faster. The hull has three lifting strakes per side, and when running at wide-open throttle, it sets on a 15-inch pad.

The lamination schedule of a Stroker 21 Dual Console starts with 18 to 20 mils of gelcoat, then a thin layer of fiberglass material is laid down. Fiberglass cloth and coring materials are laid down in layers, then the seven-stringer system is set into the hull. The transom is secured with fiberglass to the stringers, and the hull and deck are fastened together in a shoebox fit, then chemically bonded together, as well as screwed together
every 6 inches.

The process results in a sturdy, responsive boat that can handle rough water, and one that is quite responsive to driver inputs, very important when running at high speeds. Standard equipment on the 21 Dual Console is rather sparse, but every Stroker comes on a custom trailer, and the boat is equipped with full instrumentation. The fully-loaded dash includes a 100 mph speedometer, 8000-rpm tachometer, and gauges for fuel level, engine-trim position and water pressure.

Options run the gamut from full electronics to trolling motors to hydraulic jackplates. Stroker builds the boats to order; all options are available, and the boat is rated for unlimited horsepower. &!#8212; Doug Thompson

Specifications

Model Name	Stroker 21 Dual Console
Price (with 250 hp engine)	$30,000
Estimated Top Speed (with 250 hp)	90 mph
Maximum Horsepower Rating	Unlimited
Length	21'
Beam	941/2"
Construction	Fiberglass
Rigged Weight	2,200 pounds
Trailered Weight	3,180 pounds
Fuel Capacity	38 gallons
Livewell Capacity	30 gallons
Load Capacity	6 persons

For More Information

Stroker Boats
Dept. B&!WB
3944 Old Niles Ferry Road
Maryville, TN 37801
(865) 983-2482
strokerboats.com

Sylvan

Boats are often a family investment, and when the wife and kids decide to assert their stake in your vessel, then a fish-and-ski boat like the dual-console 1600 Expedition DC from Sylvan might keep everybody happy. The company's Gull Wing Hull is designed to provide instant lift and good control at high speeds. Made of up to 0.08-inch welded aluminum, five bottom keels and a one-piece bottom as standard construction, this craft should corner and track truly and be tough enough to handle the rigors of fishing and other recreational pursuits.

There's plenty of what you would expect in a fishing boat. Standards include 46 gallons of total livewell capacity, port and starboard rod lockers, trolling motor plug, side stoarge, bow storage, storage under the console, console tackle tray, curved walkthrough windshield, AM/FM/cassette stereo, tilt steering, full instrumentation, plenty of seating for those fishing or joyriding (adjus-table helm pedestal, five seat bases, two adjustable hydraulic pedestals, three bass seats) and more.

One option converts the 1600 Expedition into a bowrider with the addition of a bow cushions and backrests. Optional stern seats with removable backrests add more opportunities to welcome more passengers and make them more comfortable.
Other add-ons include a mooring cover, seat arms, bass seat, stem and spider. The twice-baked urethane paint comes in two color choices: black and berry.

The hull has a 10-year warranty, while the treated floor is covered for life and the carpet is guaranteed for five years. &!#8212; Mark Halvorsen

Specifications

Model Name	Sylvan 1600 Expedition DC
Price (with Mercury 75 ELPTO)	$12,750
Estimated Top Speed	43 mph
Maximum Horsepower Rating	90
Length	16' 1"
Beam	90"
Construction	Riveted aluminum
Rigged Weight	1,100 pounds
Trailered Weight	1,450 pounds
Fuel Capacity	24 gallons
Livewell Capacity	43 gallons
Load Capacity	5 persons

For More Information

Sylvan Boats
Dept. B&!WB
P.O. Box 65
New Paris, IN 46553
(219) 831-5900
sylvanmarine.com

ThunderJet

One of the most popular jet-powered walleye boats in the Pacific Northwest, the 19-foot 2002 Luxor 19 is at home on lakes, as well as in whitewater. When used in western rivers to access walleye grounds that are on the upstream side of a set of rapids, the ThunderJet has the power, maneuverability and stamina to stand up to both the whitewater and the rocks that keep other fishing craft at bay. Built of 0.188-inch-thick welded aluminum that is reinforced at key areas along the hull and chines, with a reverse-chine hull shape, the Luxor is a specialty fishing craft that offers its share of amenities.

A high walk-through windshield with wiper is standard, as is a fully instrumented dash, vinyl floor and carpeted sides.

Angling features include vertical rod holders and horizontal rod-storage lockers built into the walls, a 10-gallon livewell, and storage galore, including large aluminum trays that extend the length of the cockpit. Angling options offered aboard the 2002 Luxor 19 include hydraulic seats, pedestal seats in the bow or aft cockpit, additional rod holders and fishing electronics.

The standard Luxor trailer is equally impressive: a self-centering single-axle, A-frame model made of welded steel that is hot-dipped galvanized and comes rigged with surge brakes, submersible lights, bearing protectors, plated tongue jack, and custom bottom bunks and chine guides. Engine options for 2002 include a Chevy Vortec V-6 or Mercury SportJet, matched to an American Turbine or SportJet pump. &!#8212; Dan Armitage

Specifications

Model Name	ThunderJet Luxor 19
Price (with trailer and 225 hp jet)	$22,995
Estimated Top Speed (with 225 hp jet)	45 mph
Maximum Horsepower Rating	225
Length	19'
Beam	84"
Construction	Welded aluminum
Rigged Weight	3,000 pounds
Trailered Weight 4,000 pounds
Fuel Capacity	50 gallons
Livewell Capacity	10 gallons
Load Capacity	5 persons

For More Information

ThunderJet Boats
Dept. B&!WB
307 Snake River Ave.
Lewiston, ID 83501
(208) 746-2142
thunderjet.com

Tidecraft

TideCraft introduces its 209 Unlimited for 2002 &!#8212; a bassboat built for serious tournament anglers. A livewell pump-out system, oversized rod lockers and a recessed electronics station in the bow gives anglers the advantages they need to catch fish. The 209 Unlimited is built with a reversed flare at the bow, which according to the company, provides an incredibly dry ride in rough conditions, as well as helps the hull lift out of the water.

The improved lift helps the boat carry heavy tournament loads at an ideal 9-degree, positive bow-angle, which aids in stability, handling and fuel efficiency. Construction of the boat is stout, as the entire stringer system is merged to the hull and transom by a proprietary lamination and construction technique that provides speed, rigidity and strength.

Functionality and ergonomics blend together in the 209 Unlimited's layout, with wide-open deck space and the straightforward arrangement of storage lockers. All compartments are sealed to ensure that stowed gear and tackle remain dry. Other notable construction features include 20-ounce premium carpeting, a rod-organizing system, hydraulic steering and an easy-access engine compartment.

Drivers will appreciate the dash, which has an easy-to-read gauge cluster and well-labeled accessory switches. Unobstructed visibility while underway is provided by a windshield that works well, even at high speed.

Other standard features on the 209 Unlimited include a Lowrance X-48 unit, Zercom Classic flasher with surface-temperature readout, 1500-gph-bilge pump, MotorGuide 767 trolling motor and tilt steering. &!#8212; Doug Thompson

Specifications

Model Name	TideCraft 290 Unlimited
Price (with Mercury 225 OptiMax	$30,000
Estimated Top Speed	78 mph
Maximum Horsepower Rating	Unlimited
Length	20' 9"
Beam	93"
Construction	Fiberglass
Rigged Weight	2,216 pounds
Trailered Weight	3,216 pounds
Fuel Capacity	64 gallons
Livewell Capacity	30 gallons
Load Capacity	5 persons