Champion 188CX vs Bass Cat Pantera

[jrokk27]

I am looking to purchase a new used boat that I can fit in my garage. I want at least a 200HP motor, great rough water ride, and fast top end speed. I am down to one of three boats at this point. A Champion 08' 188CX with 200 Opti, Bass Cat 08' Pantera Classic with 200 Opti, and a Bass Cat 07/08 Pantera II with a Yami series 2. Which one has the better overall ride (rough water, handling, Dry, Speed)?

[n2ratfishin]

I've been in all three, best ride will go to best driver in given conditions. That PII combo is just about the perfect sized combo for the weekend tournament angler. The Classic is a speedster if that's important, lacks deck room compared to the other two. I ran Champs for a long time. Long term it's not easy getting OEM parts. With Cat you pick up the phone or visit their website for OEM parts or upgrades. Win...win choice if the motors are all in good shape.

[bgibson]

I had an 08 Pantera classic. great quick boat 72-74, 72 all day, with a 26 Fury! Likes to get on top of the rough stuff and for a 19 ft boat does a good job. If you carry a lot of tackle and gear go with the P-II. If you fish alone any get the trailer step and pole as well! You can not beat the customer service Bass Cat offers or parts availability!

[Sports1]

188.

[Snickers89]

^^^^

[PolarKraft195]

If you're tall, you won't like the lack of room behind the wheel of the Champ 188. I looked at one before i bought a Champ 183, and the 183 had much more room.
I'm 6'2"

Id pick either the 188 or PII

[bgibson]

If you go with the Bass Cat room behind the console is not a problem

[iron banks]

I've had many champs and 3 different cats. Get the P2 and never look back.

[mxmike]

Get either one of the Bass Cats. But please IM me and tell me the details on where that nasty old Champion 188 that nobody would ever want is. I might be willing to take it off their hands.

[jrokk27]

that champ is super clean. But so is the PII I am looking at.

[PolarKraft195]

If you go with the Bass Cat room behind the console is not a problem

Really?

[Godspeed409]

Really?

Yes, really. You can stretch out.

[SOONER*REDNECK]

Cant speak for the cat, but that model champ is a smooth riding boat. I know the cats will be great as well though!

[jigman51]

Get the PII.

[Lea]

Champion....!!! Classic rough water ride. And, contrary to a post above, it is not hard to find parts. For the most part, any needed parts are from suppliers like Flow rite, C&O Marine, etc, etc.

Enjoy whatever you decide on!

[Bassboater101]

Get a bird boat and pass all the others

[catdude28]

Get a bird boat and pass all the others

Very helpful post for the OP

[Bassboater101]

Very helpful post for the OP

My useless post atleast had a brand name in it. Yours (this one) is just a waste of internet space . Cheer up buddy the web doesn't need to be so serious.

[jrokk27]

Get a bird boat and pass all the others

I would consider one if I had the budget for it based on looks alone as I've never drove or rode in one. Only considering 19 footers that can handle at least a 200 and rough water,,,

[Bassboater101]

I would consider one if I had the budget for it based on looks alone as I've never drove or rode in one. Only considering 19 footers that can handle at least a 200 and rough water,,,

Yeah they are fast and can handle rough waters however I will say my 20-1 champion was a bone dry ride every time. My 19-8 Phoenix gets a little water now and then but it's also 20mph faster so I can't complain to much. Not sure on your budget but a used 819 w/200 would be worth looking at however the only ones for sale are 15 and newer