Best for Big water

[HoundNV]

I’m looking at what will be my next boat. I owned an 09 Triton 20x3 and it seems to handle big water fairly well but was slow.

A month ago in my buddy’s 17’ Nitro we were in some big water and getting tossed around and I watched a Phoenix fly by us like the big water was nothing. I’ve ridden in a few Rangers that seems smooth as well but I know driving skills are a big factor. I don’t consider myself an expert driver but definitely not a beginner driver.

Wanted your guy’s opinion on a new boat that not only handles the big waves but can handle it while maintaining a good speed and doesn’t slam you hard like every Nitro I’ve ridden in.

Right now I’m considering Phoenix, Triton, Skeeter, Ranger, and possibly Bass Cat


Thanks.

[Tarheel14]

[Sun Fish]

Are you even considering apples to apples? Was it a 17' Phoenix that flew by?

There is no real right answer, it's a matter of opinion and driver ability. I fish large NY waters quite often and dont get pounded..

[krindgen]

Driver. Driver has a lot to do with boats flying by in big water. IMO, in big water, no bass boat is going to help more than a skilled driver. A 21ft boat doesn't help a lot in 6ft rollers.

[mikesxpress]

They are just bathtubs with an engine that keeps my ass from getting wet while I fish. Regulated speed along with driver experiance/abilities dictate the ride the most. Boat length/design is a distant 2nd.

[haus9393]

Sounds like a typical Phoenix

[fishnfireman]

Another case where bigger is better.

[Wackyjig]

A phoenix flying by in rough water is a pretty common sight. I had a 518 that beat me to death and was going to upgrade to a 520c for the ride and room until I tested a 520c and a 920. After 5 minutes in the phoenix I was ready to buy.

[chrisansilver]

It’s just hard to beat a 20’ or 21’Skeeter iclass in rough water. Only thing better is the 22’ iclass.

[Fishysam]

Basscat lynx, never ran one but should fit the bill

[Sports1]

What length boat do you want? And are you looking at buying new or used?

[squib]

I have had BassCats, Rangers, and Skeeters. Fished out of most of the rest on big Texas lakes. The best I ever had for just running rough water was a Skeeter 21i. It was not my favorite all-around boat, but it took big Amistad water better than all the others.

[Meleagris1]

I just went from a Skeeter 20i to a Phoenix PHX 21. I wouldn't have even considered changing brands if Skeeter still made the I class - I would have gotten a 21i for sure. I test drove a bunch and ended up in the Phoenix PHX. The ride is a little different but every bit as good as the I class, absolutely awesome. When you really get airborne the Phoenix is actually a little better I think - very soft with that extended diamond V (like the Champions) which is why you hear stories about the Phoenix guys passing others in rough water - it gets up and is really smooth over those 1-3 footers. What amazes me about the Phoenix is that with the I class it was a heavy boat with a deep keel, which you would expect to be smooth but it drove like a heavier boat. The Phoenix has an outstanding ride yet is relatively light and doesn't have as deep a keel in the front. Its fast and nimble, very sporty. I'm hitting 76mph with a nearly 22' boat!

[TNCass]

Phoneix 921PHX... Hands down..

[bgibson]

Skeeter FX or ZX 21fter

[adchunts]

Jag400.jpg

Well, depending on budget (and if you wanted to fish sanctioned tourneys), this one might work...

[TOUCH OF CLASS]

All boats are not created the same ,you will not ride any better than a deep V hull period.

[HoundNV]

I’ll stick with a 250 motor.

Thanks for the responses. I am looking at 20’ or 21’. Wither new or almost new.

I am considering Apple to apples. Another friend bought a new Nitro Z20 and I was expecting a smooth ride and it was harsh! Pretty much made up my mind that Nitro is not an option.


I guess I’ll read up in each brands models a little more to figure out with ones are deep Hull.

[RockYScouT]

21 phx.

[slonezp]

Ranger Z522D