tracker boats?

[Wayne SW/MO]

I worked in the industry for several years and my opinion is that boat manufacturers are just like car makers. All cars have to pass safety test and so do boats. Tracker, Lowe, G3, etc are the Ford and Chevy of the industry.

I would look at the features and not get too hung up on any popular brand because they all hold up well and retail tends to be prorated among them.

There is one minor difference that might matter to you regarding a pontoon, Lowe puts foam in there pontoons and Tracker doesn't as far as I know. At least the didn't when I was involved.

[ozarkgunner]

How much are you looking to spend? I purchased a 18'9 triton this spring with nice graphs and a trailer for 25,500. Boat was new with a 150 optimax xs. Most of the alluminum boats were around 19k. An extra 5k gets you a lot more boat and the resale will show it in 5 years.

[fishinwrench]

I'm going to resist disputing anyones beliefs on this topic but I just have to throw one comment out there...

Basing your outboard motor purchase decision on "fuel economy" is like choosing a 20" snow shovel over an 18" snow shovel and assuming that it'll take noticeably less time to clear your driveway.

In an equal comparison, over a days fishing the differences in fuel consumption among different engine designs and HP ranges would be measured in teaspoons.

[gibson]

gunner,where did you find a new Triton for 25,500 ? I'm looking at 26,000, less my trade, for the Targa with a 150 4 stroke.

[ozarkgunner]

White marine in Pittsburg mo

[gibson]

Any more opinions out there ? Would like to hear them.

[grizwilson]

Go with the rated motor, a 150 at 2/3 throttle uses less fuel than a 115 at full in my experience. Plus you have the extra power if you get in a storm or have an emergency. In my shed have 1 tracker, 2 lowe, 2 champion in various lenghts and designs. Very pleased with all and are at max rated horsepower. You would not play golf with one club. My 2 cents.

[gibson]

Anyone else out there with an opinion on Tracker boats ? Would like all the input I can get, starting to shy away from them. Thanks...

[NickIL]

I have an '08 Tracker Pro Guide with a four stroke 50 hp Merc. I keep it on a covered lift on one of the LOZ smaller arms - Grand Glaize. Summer weekends I don't venture beyond the GG. With a Targa, I would feel comfortable under any reasonable LOZ conditions. I use it a lot, even during milder periods of the winter, and it has given me no problems. It is quiet, excellent on gas, roomy front deck for bass fishing. Boat control is more difficult in high winds. I am not a tournament fisherman and like to fish for other species. Highly recommend.

[gibson]

The last thing I would want is a pontoon boat, but thanks for the reply...