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I am a first time buyer and am dead set on a champion. Although since I have never been in the market before my knowledge is limited on what model and what years to look for. I want a 20 footer and will have 17-19K to spend. What would you guys recammend and what sites other than BBC should I check out for used champs?
You can start right here on BBC Boats 4 Sale. You can also search Craig's List, other boards, etc. For a 20 footer in your price range, I would look for a 203 in the 2000-2004 vintage.
<table width="90%" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=center><tr><td>Quote, originally posted by Tx Champ »</td></tr><tr><td class="quote">You can start right here on BBC Boats 4 Sale. You can also search Craig's List, other boards, etc. For a 20 footer in your price range, I would look for a 203 in the 2000-2004 vintage.</td></tr></table>
Yup 202/203 would be perfect. A 221 if you can find one would be great if you fish the big stuff too. Just not too many out there. http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/thumbsup2.gif
Yep +1 on a 203, you might be able to find a 198 for just a bit more money http://xs-s.com/zf/images/smile/emthup.gif
First off, You are headed in the right direction with a Champion (not that the others are not good boats, they wouldn't be in business if they were not) mainly due to the handling especially for a first time buyer. Not sure what experience you have with operating a boat, but the Champions ride and performance are of the highest standards (yes I am slightly bias).
Considering the amount of bling that you have to spend, you may find a deal on a 203CX in the 2006-2008 year model range which are excellent rides but the motor is going to influence the price some what. The only way I know this is I have been in the market up until recently and that has been the going price for these boats.
I think the 20 footers are rated for a 225 hp and I suggest you look at getting as close the max as you can to ensure that you are not disappointed in the speed or hole shot.
201/202/203 ya cant go wrong. 221 is a good one too.
<table width="90%" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=center><tr><td>Quote, originally posted by 183elite »</td></tr><tr><td class="quote">
I think the 20 footers are rated for a 225 hp and I suggest you look at getting as close the max as you can to ensure that you are not disappointed in the speed or hole shot.
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Some 20 footers are rated for "any V-6" while others are 250 and 300 rated.
I have to ask, are you looking to chase smallies on the Big Pond? IF so, you may want to check out a Champion Fishunter. Some walleye guys around the great lakes have them and they are truly a multispecies beast..
I fish bass, walleye, and musky and I've been on the Great Lakes as well as the smallest of ponds with skinny water and she's performed flawlessly.
Check out Walleye First, walleye central, and Craigslist around Michigan, Wisc, and Ohio for them.
Just another thought or option.
for instance..
http://walleye.outdoorsfirst.c...63080
Good luck and if you have any questions, please ping me.
Find a 202 with a 250 and hang on. 95-98 model years I believe. They should be in the 20K range in perfect shape otherwise start taking off some $$ for the condition. That is what I would get if I were in your place http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/thumbsup2.gif
Take 12-14k and find a 99-01 203 with a 225 Optimax or HPDI (for the fuel economy). Spend the other $5k on new electronics, and maybe carpet and a new set of seats from Dean's. You will have what IMHO is the best balance ever of champion ride and sports car handling with fishability, with new boat smell and current side imaging graphs.
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pm sent
That jaxed.com site seems to be pretty good.
I would probably let mine go in that price range... http://www.bassboatcentral.com/smileys/popcorn.gif
202 or 203 would be great. 221 if you want an aircraft carrier.
Check this one out
http://houston.craigslist.org/boa/2290858257.html
Thanks guys unfortunately I cant get a loan at this time due to some medical bills I need to take care of. When I get everything in order I will use the advice given. http://www.bassboatcentral.com/boardstuff2/beers.gif