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Message
Questions for First Time CC Boat Buyer
Posted on 3/1/20 at 2:42 pm
Posted on 3/1/20 at 2:42 pm
Looking to buy first boat. Grew up bass fishing but moved to Houston several years ago so proximity to salt water has me looking at a versatile boat that I can use for both bass (e.g. Toledo Bend) and specs/reds (e.g. Matagorda) since I have easy access to both waters. Also, I drive a 2WD Tacoma so can’t pull anything too big/heavy for fear of slipping on ramps.
I’m looking at a 2-3 year old Xpress or G3 20’ aluminum CC. I think the size is a good compromise and aluminum will be more durable although I’d expect a less enjoyable ride than what a fiberglass would offer.
Anything else I should be thinking about? Just looking for general advice and wisdom although I know most would suggest I avoid buying a boat altogether.
I’ve read stories on here about recent model Xpress hulls cracking and leaking. Anyone seen this with their own two eyes or is this just a case of “my brand better than your brand” BS?
Is a hand guided trolling motor going to be too much of a PITA when I bass fish?
I’m looking at a 2-3 year old Xpress or G3 20’ aluminum CC. I think the size is a good compromise and aluminum will be more durable although I’d expect a less enjoyable ride than what a fiberglass would offer.
Anything else I should be thinking about? Just looking for general advice and wisdom although I know most would suggest I avoid buying a boat altogether.
I’ve read stories on here about recent model Xpress hulls cracking and leaking. Anyone seen this with their own two eyes or is this just a case of “my brand better than your brand” BS?
Is a hand guided trolling motor going to be too much of a PITA when I bass fish?
10
Posted on 3/1/20 at 3:34 pm to CalcuttaTigah
Stay away from Excel. I know a few guys on here are going to curse me up and down, but on the Excel owners Facebook page I've seen way to many quality concerns for me to even consider buying one. Also, don't shy away from fiberglass. There's a few deals on some 18-20 footers that you just shouldn't pass up.
Posted on 3/1/20 at 4:54 pm to CalcuttaTigah
First question: what’s your budget?
Posted on 3/1/20 at 5:43 pm to CalcuttaTigah
quote:
I’ve read stories on here about recent model Xpress hulls cracking and leaking. Anyone seen this with their own two eyes or is this just a case of “my brand better than your brand” BS?
Xpress boats are not built well enough to hold up to saltwater abuse. The cracking issues you've been reading about are 100% valid and not just prevalent on recent models. I wouldn't buy one if I could avoid it.
Posted on 3/1/20 at 6:03 pm to CalcuttaTigah
quote:
Is a hand guided trolling motor going to be too much of a PITA when I bass fish?
It absolutely will. Just got rid of mine since I started bass fishing more and it’s night and day.
Posted on 3/1/20 at 6:14 pm to CalcuttaTigah
quote:
Just looking for general advice and wisdom
Cut money wherever it takes for you to fit an ipilot in the budget.
Posted on 3/2/20 at 11:46 am to CalcuttaTigah
I'm definitely not the expert, and anyone on here please feel free to dispute, but I would never take a fiberglass boat to Toledo. The number of fiberglass repair shops in the area all having a lot full of boats in need of repair has me afraid to bring my fiberglass boat there. But like I said, I'm by no means an expert and have only been to TB a hand full of times. I know there are a lot of morons out there who don't pay attention, but also know there are a lot of stumps just below the waterline as well.
Posted on 3/2/20 at 12:06 pm to CalcuttaTigah
I know of an xpress boat in the Houston area that might interest you. The set up is very versatile. Been used in Toledo, Rayburn, Big Lake, and Galveston Bay. Good boats if you are looking for aluminum.
This post was edited on 3/2/20 at 12:52 pm
Posted on 3/2/20 at 1:29 pm to CalcuttaTigah
I'm in a similar situation as you, OP. I have been looking for an aluminum hull CC bay boat that I can play around in lake ponchartrain and chase Redfish with. I've pretty much settled on the Ranger RB200. It has a lot of features that I like. It is a little out of your posted price range, but there is a 19 foot version RB190 that you may be about to find in your range.
That being said, if anyone has any opinions about Ranger aluminum bay boats, I'd welcome them.
That being said, if anyone has any opinions about Ranger aluminum bay boats, I'd welcome them.
Posted on 3/2/20 at 4:21 pm to CalcuttaTigah
G3 is trash! Had one and gave it to my cousin who didn't have a problem constantly running the bilge pump due to cracked hull.
Posted on 3/2/20 at 6:12 pm to CalcuttaTigah
Check out War Eagle. I bought one last year and we love it. Definitely get the iPilot, it's worth it. Power Poles are nice as well.
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