Watch the Starcraft Starfish 176 Video Boat Review

Overview: An aluminum dual-console fishing machine that can handle big water.



Concept


  • Versatility and reliability are the two key words Starcraft likes to keep in mind, with this boat.


Starcraft Starfish 176 Performance Data
Construction

  • A .10 aluminum hull bottom supports a pressure-treated plywood deck (which has a lifetime guarantee).

  • Sturdy, tall windshield provides lots of protection and won’t wiggle when you shake it.

  • Rubbery non-skid deck is extremely grippy.

  • Seams and transom corners are double-rivited, for extra strength.


Performance

  • With a 90-hp. ETEC outboard, this boat cruises at around 30-mph and approaches 40 at top-end.

  • Hole shot is excellent.


Handling

  • Four-keel hull design grabs the water in sharp turns, but prop tends to blow out if you make them too tight.

  • Takes waves well for its size.


Starcraft Starfish 176 specifications
Video Boat Review graphicFeatures

  • Deep foredeck gives a real feeling of security.

  • Beam is carried far forward, making for lots of fishing room.

  • Rodbox in the foredeck is HUGE- it holds 11 rigs.

  • Seats are surprisingly comfy for a boat of this size and nature.

  • * The Starcraft Starfish 176 has been named one of the Top 10 Fishing Boats of 2012.

Written by: Lenny Rudow
With over two decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to publications including YachtWorld, boats.com, Boating Magazine, Marlin Magazine, Boating World, Saltwater Sportsman, Texas Fish & Game, and many others. Lenny is a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design, and he has won numerous BWI and OWAA writing awards.