Switch to Stratos. . . . ?

[T.O.gambler]

Considering a switching teams(!) to Stratos and would love some input from the fine members of this board.
Has anyone gone from a Gambler to a Stratos that could give me some general feedback (storage, ride, fishability, SERVICE . . . )?

[Jason Phillips]

T.O.,

This is one of those things that will really start a war.

I'll start with what's a fact. You will have more storage on a 201 Stratos, the tackle organizer is the best in the business, and the ride is as good as anything out there. Period.

For my style of fishing, I have not found a boat that makes me more comfortable from flipping the shallows to running big, rough water. Myself and my partners are always comfortable. The front deck is very large and extends the length of the rod lockers (meaning you do not have to have a deck extension) so fishing two on the front deck is no problem. The advantage over a Gambler with deck space comes at the rear. The Stratos rear deck is very nicely sized and comfortable to fish from. The dash layout is very functional with everything in close reach.

Service has always been great with each Stratos I have owned. I've owned other brands and fished out of just about everything else. The Stratos just suits me the best.

[F150owner]

Another fact. . . value for the money.

Stratos boats are higher $$ than some, but not nearly as high as some other "premium" brands. You get a lot of boat for the money, a good ride, great handling, stylish (modern) looks, excellent top end speed, plenty of storage, comfort, and a proven hull design. I really like the lines of the 201.

I'm enjoying my first 201XL. Excellent hole shot and planing, plenty of speed, and very little chine walk. I added the tackle organizer myself and as Jason said, it's a great thing to have. I like the longer rod boxes on the 201. I've owned other brands and the Stratos does everything well, not just at one end of the spectrum or the other.

I rode on Wheeler Lake a few weeks ago in some pretty rough stuff, the 201XL handled great and was very predictable. (Thanks Jason!)

We need to get you on a demo ride quick!

[Jason Phillips]

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Duane Harper &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">

We need to get you on a demo ride quick!

</TD></TR></TABLE>

Just fly down to G'ville for the Southern Rally next week and you can demo my 201.

[T.O.gambler]

Thank you Gentlemen! great feedback.

[Bassin Billy]

I started with Nitro and am now on my 2nd Stratos. Would really be tough to get me to change now. Only real problem has been the padded front carpet. And its only minor and a warranty item at that...

[Neilslure]

I have had mine almost 4 years now and has been great.