Im still using a 12 foot mirocraft made in 1965 . Im 50 now and I’ve been catching hundreds of bass in my lifetime. I don’t have any electronics and being in that small boat keeps me thoroughly fishing through every spot. I’ve fished out of bass boats which will definitely spoil you but the goal is to get out there put in the time and never quit learning.
AMEN TO THAT !!! only reason went from a Alum 14' Valco w/ 15 hp motor w/ hand tiller trolling motor is I'd had thee worst time trying to start it even after a $275 tune up and I had No car payments. So bought the cheapest 16' 8'' Bass Tracker Classic XL w/ 50hp merc 4 stroke last year $147 a month ..( no more mixing gass . now i turn a key and no more head aches ... there was NO WAY i could justify spending 35k- to 65 k on a fishing boat let alone 50 of them eeeeeeeeeeee.
@@djradrs199 they work so damn well though. I had an aluminum tracker 19’ for four years, and I absolutely loved it, but I do fish tournaments, and had upgraded to a Nitro Z19, and now to a Ranger Z521R, and fishing tournaments in them is a very different experience, from comfort and speed all the way down to stability. Plus, when I take my 4yo grandson out fishing, he needs room to run and play when he gets tired of fishing. Fishing with my son and grandson alone was worth it. That said, I get that it’s expensive and not for everyone. Fishing is literally my life. I own a bluefin charter boat and two yellowfin/striper charter boats. When you spend as much time on the water as I do, you want comfort and stability.
I don't understand the negative feedback on this one. It is not a "free ride" upholding your end of the deal with a sponsor, alot of work and commitment involved. To anyone who doesn't appreciate the content of this channel, please keep your negativity to yourself and find something else to watch. Alot of people including myself read the content of some comments to upbuilt by likeminded people. Thanks Randy for creating this channel.
That's a nice rig you have there. I used to fish in a Bass club for years and finally got the Skeeter I always wanted in 1997 ZX 185c. I still have it and have had absolutely no problems with the boat or my Yamaha Pro V 150 other than minor up keep and up grades. My wife and I still use it every year and still love the boat and it still looks a runs great. A word to all boat owner is keep your boat inside and out of the weather when you are not using it and it will last a lifetime.
Gorgeous rig you have man, I’ve had my ‘99 Tracker for almost 5 years now and am looking forward to an upgrade, but I love how little I spend on gas and towing. The only major downside with my rig is running in rough water. I pretty much have to stay off the big lakes if the forecast calls for 15+ mph wind. Someday I’ll get a bigger rig but I catch plenty of fish out of what I’ve got
In 2019 I bought a new aluminum Tracker 185 V hull walk thru windshield. I love it for the deep sides and light weight on the trailer. Only issue with metal hull is it scratches much easier
Agree with Power poles, 36 volt TM, tandem trailer. Would add hydraulic jack plate, spot lock. Disagree with Hotfoot. I like both hands on steering wheel....
Hey Randy thanks for the great info advice on buying a bass boat I'm hoping by next year I'll be able to purchase a bass boat. I'm going to get a aluminum boat better on gas and alot more affordable for me and I don't get a chance to go out as much as you do. Randy I have alot of knowledge but Randy you have to go out on the water all the time and use that knowledge to my advantage. Randy I haven't had a chance to go fishing this year because of my medical issues . Thanks very much for those awesome tips on buying a boat especially the trailer and battery tip. Randy I have get a smooth moves seat for my bad back but all the homework I did I really need this seat . Sorry I don't watch every video but that doesn't mean I don't appreciate you Randy I've learned alot of things about fishing and that's because of you bro much appreciated 👍 God bless you and your family your pal fisherman Mike. Ps great video on people littering Randy even though I smoke cigarettes Randy I never ever throw my cigarettes in the water or on shore and if I am fishing on shore if I throw them on the ground I always and I mean always Randy pick them up and through them in the trash. Randy if you ever started a program to clean up around the lakes here in Missouri. Randy I would gladly come down to the lake and help you do some cleaning up. Bless you bro for caring about our lakes and nature. I was thinking one day to grab some garbage bags and go down to table rock lake and do some cleaning like you say if we all help we can keep nature. You know Randy I think alot of people don't realize just how good we have it here in this country. Randy I won't you to never forget what I'm about to say. Randy there is just not many people like you who really truly care about our lakes and nature God bless you always.
My first was a custom built aluminum welded , then a 18”6 ft Champion elite , now I have a 22ft Bullet SF , and a 20 ft Pathfinder Bay boat which was my dads that he left me
Must say Randy I respect you and I like your take on things. I agree on most of your points and although there’s a few things I thought were my own secrets that you let out the bag! there’s also many things you’ve opened my eyes to. One of the few people on social media I can say I truly benefit from. Feels like I know you. Thanks man, keep doing what you’re doing….
Randy I’ve been using a modified 2014 tracker , my buddy had it and it was his saltwater boat that he used to take into the key bridge area of Baltimore Maryland and fish for rockfish. Well he took all the gas supplies off, I have a live well I have it boarded out all my batteries are in an area where they belong I left at the same I lifted the front up so it’s all one walking height I made it all one level instead of the bunks on the side I use one of them to store three rods I have a 36 V upside down golf cart motor in the back that runs on 6-6V batteries, and I have 212 V batteries right next in line to them that is bridge for my gator mount motor guide 75 pound thrust upfront trolling motor and I have a basic HDS seven with a structural Box big transducer plate and I used to have only two55 lbs. 12 V motors on back and they used to get me all through the reservoir you just Gotta have battery capacity long as you got battery capacity Randy you can do a lot but I system on a boat like yours fish for two weeks out of a nitro and it’s a total different game changer I got to different areas quicker and it made it a lot more efficient and a lot more hook up ratio anything that stresses your mind while you’re out there is not good for you that’s why I believe in everything you say because you don’t say this is how it’s gonna be you say this is how it worked for you and how it works for others so in your experience it works for a lot of people other than just yourself and I like how other people are speaking up we don’t need negativity on here when it comes to comments if they can’t be respectful they don’t need to listen to your channel because this is a respectful area and we are all here or safe and we love your advice when it comes to what you do for a living and I believe in you 100% you and Matt, like you said Randy behind every good man especially construction running a business and fisherman and a sports player athlete any kind of creativity in the mind of a real man and a real woman that woman makes that man the great person he is and a lot of people don’t agree with it’s true just look around you throughout your life everyone who reads this post facts are facts, And the best thing about it Randy is having a boat you know you can do a lot, you can take your kids out not even fish pull them around on a tube fission brings so many other adventures to light I wish everyone enjoyed what we do but I can’t speak for everyone can only speak for the people enjoy what we do tight lines and smart brains take care Randy and thank you God bless
Hahaha i got one of them plastic pelican sundolphins im getting ready to putmy seats on and some rubber floor pads and my 60lbs thrust trolling motor, all i can do for now, ever since i was like 12 i have wanted a dang bass boat, just something simple, hopefully i can get one in about 5 years. Really enjoy this channel!!!!
Bought a new Tracker Classic and have no complaints. It does everything I want it to do, it fits in my garage, 50hp runs 37to 38mph. And it didn’t cost $50,000 to $80,000…
Great bit Randy, I couldn't agree more. I wanted a 20 ft Bass boat so bad, I searched all 2019 from Bass Cat to Phoenix to Skeeter, as you mentioned my wife and kids played a role on my decision wifey likes to crappie fish, my son likes to Bass fish when their biting and my daughter just wanted to boat and tube. We have a local place in a gated community in Foristel MO, small lake 285 acres, 20ft limit on boats. We decided on a 2020 Lund Impact 19ft with a 150 Merc. Fantastic boat, so many memories. I put it's first 100 hrs on it in 6 months. Been everywhere from Shoals, Rock, Chickamauga, Watts Bar to Grand lake Ok. Now I've been tournament fishing and really wanting a Bass Cat puma..just to expensive. Great channel Randy we love it
I've had two bass boats and B.o.a.t. really does stand for "bust out another thousand!" Just got my wife and I two kayaks, can't wait to hit the small lakes and rivers here in SC!
Experienced boat owners expect to occasionally “bust out another thousand” as basic maintenance. It’s when you have to “bend over and take (it)” that it hurts.
I have a bass tracker pro tournament 19’ that has more deck space than most glass boats. Nice wide deck all the way up front with flat deck beside graphs and trolling motor. The 90hp merc moves it 40-45mph fully loaded live well full. Poke a hole just tape it up for weekend and weld it when get home. Lol
@@411sponge72 narrowest part up front is 4’6” wide. Rear is about 61/2 feet wide. With the rod locker extended it’s safer and I always walk to the side on it instead of having to step down.
I don’t know of a single person I’ve heard that said they regretted having too much hp. I have heard several though, that said they wished they had more. Some great tips though, I’d just recommend including a compression check and a thorough transom inspection on used boats. You absolutely cannot go wrong with Skeeter! There’s not a better hull on rough water IMO.
I have heard that same thing in regards to getting a 36v trolling motor before on In Fisherman, they have said this very same thing, to max out the troll motor no matter what boat you get. You have a really nice setup for your boat and thanks for sharing these tips with us!! :)
Lithium batteries are the best upgrades I put on all of my boats, from my personal kayak and bass boat, all the way to my Regulator 37 tuna charter boat (actually that boat came with them) I never run out of juice, I rarely even have to worry about them. They cost me thousands to upgrade, I put 3 200AH on my Ranger bass boat, and while I never tried, I’m positive I could run the boat for a 3 day tournament and not have to charge them, and probably wouldn’t be worried the third day. It was well over 12kUSD to upgrade 3 boats and a kayak. It sounds like a lot, but depending on time of season, we charge 2000$ a day per person, plus tax. It’s important to me that my clients have the best experience possible, and both them and my employees are as safe as they possibly can be a hundred miles offshore. I’m going so damn stir crazy waiting for July 15 (beginning of our Tuna season, which runs through November) in what has been over a week of constant rain and wind.
36v is a have to have can fish multiple trips between charges. Laughed at guys putting power poles on older boats till I got a set and now don't know how I fished without them. I agree 100% on the hot foot my phoenix came with one I am going to remove.
I agree with everything you have to say. And the Skeeter is a great boat. I totally love my Phoenix though and I've never been in a better handling/riding boat. It rides smooth and dry (even on Lake of the Ozarks!:)
I'm stoked about your opinion on the hot foot, I've never had one that I could feel comfortable with. I thought I must be nuts until now. And battery weight was always the determining factor in my TM selection. With lithium, the sky's the limit. Not a power pole guy though, most of my fishing is in 10ft + right off the bank.
Look at the sea star hot foot alot more adjustments and smoother. The reason I have one on my boat it for rough water and keeping 2 hands on the wheel while still having throttle control
As far as the extra cost associated with lithium batteries, the extra cost is easily offset by the reduction in wear and tear on your back. Installing and replacing lead-acid batteries in a boat has caused serious back problems on many an angler!
I’ve had several new bullet boats. Absolutely love them. However, the money spent on a new boat simply does not justify the cost unless you are using it nearly every day of the year. I have since purchased an older used norris craft in near perfect condition with an engine that has less than 20 hours on it. Cost less than I could have bought a used aluminum boat and it will last me the rest of my life
Buy what makes you happy, but the biggest key is a good motor, without that you are dead on the water. Also, make use of your time off the water by making sure all your wiring/electronics/pumps work so that you can be worry free on the water. Lastly, they are a tool the way a tractor is to a farmer.
In other words, don't go the cheapest route. Spend enough to make sure it has all you can possibly afford. This will make you happier and help with resale value. And last, shop around, there are very few deals out there but sometimes you find it by accident.
I don’t know of a single person I’ve heard that said they regretted having too much hp. I have heard several though, that said they wished they had more.
I bought a 3yr old used Traacker Pro Team 175 w/ 75hp merc with 37hrs on it. It was basically new. Randy, did you run power poles on your aluminum before your jump to Skeeter? I’m worried about the extra weight since I can’t afford lithium AND power poles. Those bats in your boat are $900 a piece right now. I agree with your entire video. I had a 19ft Skeeter back in my tourney days. The only thing I miss every time I go out is the storage. Thanks for another winner video.
I have a 2020 175 txw te with 2 8ft poles 24vsystem ultrex..mdi..msi 10"graphs reg interstate batteries..everything fits good and works as advertised ..I did put the spitfire x7 ss prop on my 75hp..runs 39 mph..
@@blazer7100 - Thanks for the reply. Sounds nice! Yeah, the guy that owned mine first did a lot of cool upgrades including a nice SS prop and I can get 45 out of it. I do have 3 heavy 12 volt bats and it sits pretty low in the stern, so I was worried about the weight. I know those power piles are hvy.
Ive came to the conclusion I can’t have anything nice. I have a 79 ranger V16, it’s almost completely restored and updated. “Should” be on the water looking brand new in a couple weeks. Me and my buddy bought it for a steal and only have 2k in it, minus the graph… that’s a whole new can of worms!
Two questions Randy, what's the smallest boat someone should fish in a BFL, and how did you like your Ranger 198P overall as a tournament rig...likes and dislikes?
And your Champions (Great boats, very solid) were derived directly from a Skeeter Wrangler hull. They actually bought a Wrangler, toward it up to Mountain Home, and tweeked it.
Rule of 72……divide the interest rate into 72…..that is the number of years when you double the price of the boat. Example: buy a 50 thousand dollar boat at 10%….in 7.2 years of payments you have paid a 100 thousand, in 14 years $150,000. So read the small print on the tag. It’s not how much are the payments….it’s how long, interest rates, and the cost of the boat. Too many young guys buy an expensive rig…maybe for 15 years….only to find out they later fell in love, got married, started having kids, and wanted to buy a house. Due to time restraints they don’t fish that much any more, gas is up, kids start summer sports…..and they are so upside down on the boat they can’t sell it without still having payments. I looked on Bass Pro Shops ….Z21 Nitro….$72.,000……10%……10 years. At that point you will have paid over $160,000 for the boat. How much is a 10 year old Nitro worth? Put $22,000 down….you’re still in the $120,000 range. On the other hand ….pay cash for a used aluminum….even put a new 70 hp on it with the $22,000. Then take the monthly payments you would have made and put them in a Roth IRA every year for the 10 years….you’ll retire a millionaire at 65 and all the earnings are tax free!
I think you should do the math again. That is some incorrect figures. 50K on 10% is more like 80k when all said and done. Still a lot of interest, but the rate your quoting is more like 25% not 10%. The Rule of 72 is about returns on investment, I do no think it has anything to do with loans.
You have lost your mind! Everyone does not need a 36 volt trolling motor. A 36 volt trolling motor on a 16' or 16 1/2' boat......Come on man! There's nothing wrong with a single axle trailer. Boats have been trailered on single axle trailers for years and had no issues. Sorry, I have to disagree with you on this one.
I use a 24 volt and wish I had made the switch years before. I have several lakes nearby that are 9.9 hrs or electric and use to run the battery way down. Now with the twenty four I can run two days without worry.
@@terrytresemer2864 Yeah, unless you're running a 20 footer or bigger 24 volt is plenty. Now, if you are fishing in a lot of current all the time, I can see going to 36 volt. Plus you don't have the extra space used and weight of another battery.
Im still using a 12 foot mirocraft made in 1965 . Im 50 now and I’ve been catching hundreds of bass in my lifetime. I don’t have any electronics and being in that small boat keeps me thoroughly fishing through every spot. I’ve fished out of bass boats which will definitely spoil you but the goal is to get out there put in the time and never quit learning.
AMEN TO THAT !!! only reason went from a Alum 14' Valco w/ 15 hp motor w/ hand tiller trolling motor is I'd had thee worst time trying to start it even after a $275 tune up and I had No car payments. So bought the cheapest 16' 8'' Bass Tracker Classic XL w/ 50hp merc 4 stroke last year $147 a month ..( no more mixing gass . now i turn a key and no more head aches ... there was NO WAY i could justify spending 35k- to 65 k on a fishing boat let alone 50 of them eeeeeeeeeeee.
@@djradrs199 they work so damn well though. I had an aluminum tracker 19’ for four years, and I absolutely loved it, but I do fish tournaments, and had upgraded to a Nitro Z19, and now to a Ranger Z521R, and fishing tournaments in them is a very different experience, from comfort and speed all the way down to stability.
Plus, when I take my 4yo grandson out fishing, he needs room to run and play when he gets tired of fishing. Fishing with my son and grandson alone was worth it.
That said, I get that it’s expensive and not for everyone. Fishing is literally my life. I own a bluefin charter boat and two yellowfin/striper charter boats. When you spend as much time on the water as I do, you want comfort and stability.
I don't understand the negative feedback on this one. It is not a "free ride" upholding your end of the deal with a sponsor, alot of work and commitment involved. To anyone who doesn't appreciate the content of this channel, please keep your negativity to yourself and find something else to watch. Alot of people including myself read the content of some comments to upbuilt by likeminded people. Thanks Randy for creating this channel.
Thanks man. There’s always a few boneheads out there
Great comment and I agree!!
who are you ot tell me what to do with my negativity? eat shit
I haven't seen a boat with a 50 horse with tandem axle, but I agree with you
That's a nice rig you have there. I used to fish in a Bass club for years and finally got the Skeeter I always wanted in 1997 ZX 185c. I still have it and have had absolutely no problems with the boat or my Yamaha Pro V 150 other than minor up keep and up grades. My wife and I still use it every year and still love the boat and it still looks a runs great. A word to all boat owner is keep your boat inside and out of the weather when you are not using it and it will last a lifetime.
Gorgeous rig you have man, I’ve had my ‘99 Tracker for almost 5 years now and am looking forward to an upgrade, but I love how little I spend on gas and towing. The only major downside with my rig is running in rough water. I pretty much have to stay off the big lakes if the forecast calls for 15+ mph wind. Someday I’ll get a bigger rig but I catch plenty of fish out of what I’ve got
In 2019 I bought a new aluminum Tracker 185 V hull walk thru windshield. I love it for the deep sides and light weight on the trailer. Only issue with metal hull is it scratches much easier
Agree with Power poles, 36 volt TM, tandem trailer. Would add hydraulic jack plate, spot lock.
Disagree with Hotfoot. I like both hands on steering wheel....
Hey Randy thanks for the great info advice on buying a bass boat I'm hoping by next year I'll be able to purchase a bass boat. I'm going to get a aluminum boat better on gas and alot more affordable for me and I don't get a chance to go out as much as you do. Randy I have alot of knowledge but Randy you have to go out on the water all the time and use that knowledge to my advantage. Randy I haven't had a chance to go fishing this year because of my medical issues . Thanks very much for those awesome tips on buying a boat especially the trailer and battery tip. Randy I have get a smooth moves seat for my bad back but all the homework I did I really need this seat . Sorry I don't watch every video but that doesn't mean I don't appreciate you Randy I've learned alot of things about fishing and that's because of you bro much appreciated 👍 God bless you and your family your pal fisherman Mike. Ps great video on people littering Randy even though I smoke cigarettes Randy I never ever throw my cigarettes in the water or on shore and if I am fishing on shore if I throw them on the ground I always and I mean always Randy pick them up and through them in the trash. Randy if you ever started a program to clean up around the lakes here in Missouri. Randy I would gladly come down to the lake and help you do some cleaning up. Bless you bro for caring about our lakes and nature. I was thinking one day to grab some garbage bags and go down to table rock lake and do some cleaning like you say if we all help we can keep nature. You know Randy I think alot of people don't realize just how good we have it here in this country. Randy I won't you to never forget what I'm about to say. Randy there is just not many people like you who really truly care about our lakes and nature God bless you always.
My first was a custom built aluminum welded , then a 18”6 ft Champion elite , now I have a 22ft Bullet SF , and a 20 ft Pathfinder Bay boat which was my dads that he left me
Must say Randy I respect you and I like your take on things. I agree on most of your points and although there’s a few things I thought were my own secrets that you let out the bag! there’s also many things you’ve opened my eyes to. One of the few people on social media I can say I truly benefit from. Feels like I know you. Thanks man, keep doing what you’re doing….
Randy I’ve been using a modified 2014 tracker , my buddy had it and it was his saltwater boat that he used to take into the key bridge area of Baltimore Maryland and fish for rockfish. Well he took all the gas supplies off, I have a live well I have it boarded out all my batteries are in an area where they belong I left at the same I lifted the front up so it’s all one walking height I made it all one level instead of the bunks on the side I use one of them to store three rods I have a 36 V upside down golf cart motor in the back that runs on 6-6V batteries, and I have 212 V batteries right next in line to them that is bridge for my gator mount motor guide 75 pound thrust upfront trolling motor and I have a basic HDS seven with a structural Box big transducer plate and I used to have only two55 lbs. 12 V motors on back and they used to get me all through the reservoir you just Gotta have battery capacity long as you got battery capacity Randy you can do a lot but I system on a boat like yours fish for two weeks out of a nitro and it’s a total different game changer I got to different areas quicker and it made it a lot more efficient and a lot more hook up ratio anything that stresses your mind while you’re out there is not good for you that’s why I believe in everything you say because you don’t say this is how it’s gonna be you say this is how it worked for you and how it works for others so in your experience it works for a lot of people other than just yourself and I like how other people are speaking up we don’t need negativity on here when it comes to comments if they can’t be respectful they don’t need to listen to your channel because this is a respectful area and we are all here or safe and we love your advice when it comes to what you do for a living and I believe in you 100% you and Matt, like you said Randy behind every good man especially construction running a business and fisherman and a sports player athlete any kind of creativity in the mind of a real man and a real woman that woman makes that man the great person he is and a lot of people don’t agree with it’s true just look around you throughout your life everyone who reads this post facts are facts, And the best thing about it Randy is having a boat you know you can do a lot, you can take your kids out not even fish pull them around on a tube fission brings so many other adventures to light I wish everyone enjoyed what we do but I can’t speak for everyone can only speak for the people enjoy what we do tight lines and smart brains take care Randy and thank you God bless
Hahaha i got one of them plastic pelican sundolphins im getting ready to putmy seats on and some rubber floor pads and my 60lbs thrust trolling motor, all i can do for now, ever since i was like 12 i have wanted a dang bass boat, just something simple, hopefully i can get one in about 5 years. Really enjoy this channel!!!!
Bought a new Tracker Classic and have no complaints. It does everything I want it to do, it fits in my garage, 50hp runs 37to 38mph. And it didn’t cost $50,000 to $80,000…
Great bit Randy, I couldn't agree more.
I wanted a 20 ft Bass boat so bad, I searched all 2019 from Bass Cat to Phoenix to Skeeter, as you mentioned my wife and kids played a role on my decision wifey likes to crappie fish, my son likes to Bass fish when their biting and my daughter just wanted to boat and tube.
We have a local place in a gated community in Foristel MO, small lake 285 acres, 20ft limit on boats.
We decided on a 2020 Lund Impact 19ft with a 150 Merc.
Fantastic boat, so many memories.
I put it's first 100 hrs on it in 6 months.
Been everywhere from Shoals, Rock, Chickamauga, Watts Bar to Grand lake Ok.
Now I've been tournament fishing and really wanting a Bass Cat puma..just to expensive.
Great channel Randy
we love it
I've had two bass boats and B.o.a.t. really does stand for "bust out another thousand!" Just got my wife and I two kayaks, can't wait to hit the small lakes and rivers here in SC!
The two best days of owning a boat are the day you buy it and the day you sell it
Experienced boat owners expect to occasionally “bust out another thousand” as basic maintenance. It’s when you have to “bend over and take (it)” that it hurts.
My buddy and I have been fishing out of an aluminum g3 with a 60hp and it def gets the job done. Love that Lil boat.
I have a bass tracker pro tournament 19’ that has more deck space than most glass boats. Nice wide deck all the way up front with flat deck beside graphs and trolling motor. The 90hp merc moves it 40-45mph fully loaded live well full. Poke a hole just tape it up for weekend and weld it when get home. Lol
Whats the beam on the Tracker?
@@411sponge72 narrowest part up front is 4’6” wide. Rear is about 61/2 feet wide. With the rod locker extended it’s safer and I always walk to the side on it instead of having to step down.
I feel hot foots are a benefit to a boat where in rough water you can have both hands on the stearing wheel and still have throttle control
Randy. Im hoping to purchase a boat soon. Please do more of these boats videos.
I don’t know of a single person I’ve heard that said they regretted having too much hp. I have heard several though, that said they wished they had more. Some great tips though, I’d just recommend including a compression check and a thorough transom inspection on used boats. You absolutely cannot go wrong with Skeeter! There’s not a better hull on rough water IMO.
I have heard that same thing in regards to getting a 36v trolling motor before on In Fisherman, they have said this very same thing, to max out the troll motor no matter what boat you get. You have a really nice setup for your boat and thanks for sharing these tips with us!! :)
Great video man. Only thing i do diff is i do like hotfoots, but im in a 20 foot bullet boat with a 300R merc so i need two hands on the wheel.
2007 champion 183, 150 optimax bought brand new at 26k. Boy have times changed!
Lithium batteries are the best upgrades I put on all of my boats, from my personal kayak and bass boat, all the way to my Regulator 37 tuna charter boat (actually that boat came with them) I never run out of juice, I rarely even have to worry about them. They cost me thousands to upgrade, I put 3 200AH on my Ranger bass boat, and while I never tried, I’m positive I could run the boat for a 3 day tournament and not have to charge them, and probably wouldn’t be worried the third day.
It was well over 12kUSD to upgrade 3 boats and a kayak. It sounds like a lot, but depending on time of season, we charge 2000$ a day per person, plus tax. It’s important to me that my clients have the best experience possible, and both them and my employees are as safe as they possibly can be a hundred miles offshore.
I’m going so damn stir crazy waiting for July 15 (beginning of our Tuna season, which runs through November) in what has been over a week of constant rain and wind.
36v is a have to have can fish multiple trips between charges. Laughed at guys putting power poles on older boats till I got a set and now don't know how I fished without them. I agree 100% on the hot foot my phoenix came with one I am going to remove.
Love my 17 1/2 G3 Aluminum 50HP Yamaha!
I agree with everything you have to say. And the Skeeter is a great boat. I totally love my Phoenix though and I've never been in a better handling/riding boat. It rides smooth and dry (even on Lake of the Ozarks!:)
Nice topic Randy!!!🤓day time insights in the backyard flipping grounds😁
I'm stoked about your opinion on the hot foot, I've never had one that I could feel comfortable with. I thought I must be nuts until now. And battery weight was always the determining factor in my TM selection. With lithium, the sky's the limit. Not a power pole guy though, most of my fishing is in 10ft + right off the bank.
Look at the sea star hot foot alot more adjustments and smoother. The reason I have one on my boat it for rough water and keeping 2 hands on the wheel while still having throttle control
As far as the extra cost associated with lithium batteries, the extra cost is easily offset by the reduction in wear and tear on your back. Installing and replacing lead-acid batteries in a boat has caused serious back problems on many an angler!
All great points and advice........I've had a total of 8 and currently in the market for #9
I just sold my Tracker 175 and bought a 190 aluminum V hull. Had 8 - 10 problems I had to fix. One left to work on.
I'm working on saving to get me in a boat. I wish more guys or do videos about their boats
I use a multi species deep v aluminum boat.
Excellent message. Thanks for sharing
I’ve had several new bullet boats. Absolutely love them. However, the money spent on a new boat simply does not justify the cost unless you are using it nearly every day of the year. I have since purchased an older used norris craft in near perfect condition with an engine that has less than 20 hours on it. Cost less than I could have bought a used aluminum boat and it will last me the rest of my life
Buy what makes you happy, but the biggest key is a good motor, without that you are dead on the water. Also, make use of your time off the water by making sure all your wiring/electronics/pumps work so that you can be worry free on the water. Lastly, they are a tool the way a tractor is to a farmer.
Reading thru the comments and found a hater. Who did you piss off? Must have been a litter bug.
🤣. Right?!
Great video and excellent advice Randy
In other words, don't go the cheapest route. Spend enough to make sure it has all you can possibly afford. This will make you happier and help with resale value. And last, shop around, there are very few deals out there but sometimes you find it by accident.
8 foot pond prowler and I love it. 😊 Man you got some big birds.
My late, great, and much lamented boat mechanic always opined "never EVER get a Hotfoot. They're dangerous, and more stuff to break!"
great info! thanks Randy.
I don’t know of a single person I’ve heard that said they regretted having too much hp. I have heard several though, that said they wished they had more.
Hey Randy thanks .
You do not need 36V batteries if you're fishing a 16' aluminum boat.
I would love to buy a boat but I have trouble not buy fast cars instead. I'll get a truck soon enough and then a boat one day. Long term goals
Do you feel the outboards of today are more durable then the ones back when you made the 190 mile trip in your other videos?
Great info
I bought a 3yr old used Traacker Pro Team 175 w/ 75hp merc with 37hrs on it. It was basically new. Randy, did you run power poles on your aluminum before your jump to Skeeter? I’m worried about the extra weight since I can’t afford lithium AND power poles. Those bats in your boat are $900 a piece right now. I agree with your entire video. I had a 19ft Skeeter back in my tourney days. The only thing I miss every time I go out is the storage. Thanks for another winner video.
I have a 2020 175 txw te with 2 8ft poles 24vsystem ultrex..mdi..msi 10"graphs reg interstate batteries..everything fits good and works as advertised ..I did put the spitfire x7 ss prop on my 75hp..runs 39 mph..
He ran dual 8 foot power pole pro II series
@@bucknuts8824 Cool, thanks for that info.
@@blazer7100 - Thanks for the reply. Sounds nice! Yeah, the guy that owned mine first did a lot of cool upgrades including a nice SS prop and I can get 45 out of it. I do have 3 heavy 12 volt bats and it sits pretty low in the stern, so I was worried about the weight. I know those power piles are hvy.
I would love a tandem trader, but I’m not gonna turn down a good boat just because it has a single axle
Nice skeeter
Hi randy . Really enjoy your page . I have a 2009 skeeter 20i any recommendations on power poles? Thanks !
8 foot blade power poles
Thank you sir!
Ive came to the conclusion I can’t have anything nice. I have a 79 ranger V16, it’s almost completely restored and updated. “Should” be on the water looking brand new in a couple weeks. Me and my buddy bought it for a steal and only have 2k in it, minus the graph… that’s a whole new can of worms!
Good stuff!!!!!
I'd like to see this same video for buying a used bass boat.
I have a rt 188 I love it
Two questions Randy, what's the smallest boat someone should fish in a BFL, and how did you like your Ranger 198P overall as a tournament rig...likes and dislikes?
17 feet. the Ranger tin boat was ok but the storage room sucked bad
Love my skeeter St15
I’m over the speed thing now , getting older
Me to! It's about comfort now. Been thinking a Lund, I bend over to lip the fish I worry about falling in.
Champion
How do you get into pro bass fishing?
People are trying to sell 30 year old boats for twice what they was new!
Damn right man guys be wanting 20-30k for mid 2000s rangers.
The hens got you surrounded
I loved Champion and Skeeter
The old Skeeter Starfire hulls of the late 70' thru the 80's could run full-spreed thru anything.
@@richerwin6397 I believe you
And your Champions (Great boats, very solid) were derived directly from a Skeeter Wrangler hull. They actually bought a Wrangler, toward it up to Mountain Home, and tweeked it.
@@richerwin6397 yep broke my heart when they went under , Champion
Rule of 72……divide the interest rate into 72…..that is the number of years when you double the price of the boat. Example: buy a 50 thousand dollar boat at 10%….in 7.2 years of payments you have paid a 100 thousand, in 14 years $150,000. So read the small print on the tag. It’s not how much are the payments….it’s how long, interest rates, and the cost of the boat. Too many young guys buy an expensive rig…maybe for 15 years….only to find out they later fell in love, got married, started having kids, and wanted to buy a house. Due to time restraints they don’t fish that much any more, gas is up, kids start summer sports…..and they are so upside down on the boat they can’t sell it without still having payments. I looked on Bass Pro Shops ….Z21 Nitro….$72.,000……10%……10 years. At that point you will have paid over $160,000 for the boat. How much is a 10 year old Nitro worth? Put $22,000 down….you’re still in the $120,000 range. On the other hand ….pay cash for a used aluminum….even put a new 70 hp on it with the $22,000. Then take the monthly payments you would have made and put them in a Roth IRA every year for the 10 years….you’ll retire a millionaire at 65 and all the earnings are tax free!
I think you should do the math again. That is some incorrect figures. 50K on 10% is more like 80k when all said and done. Still a lot of interest, but the rate your quoting is more like 25% not 10%. The Rule of 72 is about returns on investment, I do no think it has anything to do with loans.
Me with $8 in my bank account, I need to watch this video about buying a bass boat
Jason Christie Bassmasters Classic winner...Aluminum boat. Just saying...
You forgot got 1 Randy, avoid boat all together & get a kayak...
The 2 best days of owning a boat....
Chicken farmer 😁
"Investment" and boat don't belong in the same sentence. LOL...
get cheeee
You have lost your mind! Everyone does not need a 36 volt trolling motor. A 36 volt trolling motor on a 16' or 16 1/2' boat......Come on man!
There's nothing wrong with a single axle trailer. Boats have been trailered on single axle trailers for years and had no issues.
Sorry, I have to disagree with you on this one.
I use a 24 volt and wish I had made the switch years before. I have several lakes nearby that are 9.9 hrs or electric and use to run the battery way down. Now with the twenty four I can run two days without worry.
@@terrytresemer2864
Yeah, unless you're running a 20 footer or bigger 24 volt is plenty. Now, if you are fishing in a lot of current all the time, I can see going to 36 volt. Plus you don't have the extra space used and weight of another battery.