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Posts: 3480
Location: Elk River, Minnesota | What would make the ultimate Muskie boat?
Now...to satisfy both glass and aluminum fans, let's just say that an aluminum/fiberglass composite has been discovered which allows the boat hull to be shaped and sanded like a glass hull, yet be bent like aluminum... The boat would come with either tiller or console, but the main aspcets are the same.
Leaving us with just the interior design of the boat...where would you have things placed?
I'd start with one big rod locker in the bow, and a 60" livewell across the rear.
Steve |
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| I'd start with one big rod locker in the bow, and a 60" livewell across the rear.
check.
check.
http://www.tuffyboats.com/boats/1760 |
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Posts: 1137
Location: Holly, MI | I need a high dry front and sides for crazy Lake St Clair(always getting wet), while maintaining a low back end for dealing with fish/trolling setups/etc.
This might sound crazy but just hear me out.. I would love to see a 18 to 20 foot boat with an inboard motor. Lets me have a huge wide open, low, no obstruction, full width back end of the boat. An inboard V8 makes a thump that seems to attract muskies (while trolling on Lake St Clair at least). [ask the guys who use them or who don't but fish alongside them!]. A center console lets me run all the way around the boat to get to any rod or cast anywhere I want to. Rods go in rocket launchers off the bimni so no locker needed. Livewell not needed either, like a rod locker, just takes up good usable floor space. If I'm sneaking out for a salmon (meat) trip I toss the huge cooler in the front full of ice.
Oh and one more very cool thing.. I saw this on Capt Frank's boat last year, He has a set of controls at the back of the boat as well. He can change trolling speed and steer the boat from a remote post at the rear of the boat. Very nice. |
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Posts: 2427
Location: Ft. Wayne Indiana | Front Deck 9 feet long
Beam 100 inches
Total length 21 feet
large back deck, similar to Ranger 620's with extention deck
small livewell up front
small livewell in the back (no need for a 60 incher live well, that just takes up storage space)
DRY storage
Sits low to the water, but not "bass" boat low, more like a Crestliner 1850
lockable storage
8'6 rod lockers in the 9 foot front deck
built in lure storage in the back deck
I'll think of more later |
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Posts: 2515
Location: Waukesha & Land O Lakes, WI | For the Musky fishing I do, medium sized bodies of water, A Tuffy Esox Magnum with a 96" beam that has a 3-4" carpeted gunnel going around the boat. It'd be nice to have a small gunnel for flush mount rod holders and to step on.
I do like the the 1760 Tiller...wish it was a tad wider, maybe I'm just spoiled by the wide beam of my C-Liner. |
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Location: Contrarian Island | I would love to see Ranger making a single console in the 618 tiller models hull....put the console farther back like where the older 690 consoles were...huge front deck, big back deck, 8'6" rod storage up the middle, lots of dry storage compartments...that would be the ultimate small and big water rig in my book...make it handle a 175 and I'd buy it!!!
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Posts: 1996
Location: Pelican Lake/Three Lakes Chain | Check the Tuffy website after the new year. They are building the ultimate rig right now, the 1890. I am drooling just thinking about it! |
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Location: Contrarian Island | as far as I know the new Tuffy will compete with the Ranger 619,,,I'd like to see something a touch smaller than the 619 built by ranger in a console ..that is why I think there 618 tiller hull would be a kick butt musky rig in a console...18'4", 90" wide, plenty deep..the new Tuffy will have a price tag of mid to high 30's with a 200...be nice to have a smaller, big water, deep, wide, and not so long boat that would either handle a 150 or 175 to keep the price tag closer to 30 if possible..just my opinion...618 tiller hull is a great hull and could be matched with a console and 150 or 175 and be great even on big water ....
Edited by MSKY HNR 12/16/2005 9:54 AM
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Posts: 4266
| Never enough room for storage or for long rods. Need lots of that. I'd like to see a built-in tackle box like a Lakewood with removable racks and another area for Plano type boxes that could slide right into the compartment without me having to open it, leaving the deck uncluttered. Besides big casting decks fore and aft, I like the way my rig is set up so I can literally walk all the way around the boat if I want to. Comes in handy when fighting fish, and also gives other anglers in the boat room to move around. 100 hp tiller and a nice kicker. Wide gunnels, but not so wide that you beat the heck out of your rods when you're using gliders and other walk-the-dog type lures. Gotta be user friendly. |
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| OK, the door is open, so here's the skinny on Tuffy's new products.
1760 GC and GT, 84" wide, 17'6" long, and an open gunnel design with all new on board computer electrical, new SAS seating, new consoles and instrument panels, and a price $1500 less than the 1760 Osprey or Esox Deep V with way more room and a lower profile. Still the same great ride and big water performance. Rates at 75 tiller and 150 console. Same rear deck insert that is actually 4 sided 5' plus storage, gull wing lids, and BIG. The deck removes in a minute with a socket wrench, and reinstalls as quickly. It's not just a 'board'. Storage is sealed fiberglass lockers, and there's plenty. Lighter, faster, more room, good looking, and less money.
1890:
Totally new Muskie rig. 97" wide rated to 200 console and 100 tiller. More front deck storage than the 2060 and 1760. 14 rods in the center loader, 9' rod storage. HUGE rear deck insert, doubles as storage. rear livewell and additional storage. All new consoles in the Walkthrough and Sport models. Computer controlled touch pad electrical. New instruments, new seating, new graphics and more. This boat has been two years in development. If you are happy with the 50 MPH area in speed, it can be rigged and ready with a 175 V-6 4 stroke, GPS, graph, and trolling motor in the lower portion of the before mentioned price range.
New Walkthrough models in the Esox Deep V on the 1760, 1890, and 2060. Tuffy has totally revamped the entire line over the last 18 months including an all new Esox Magnum, building a full line of dedicated muskie rigs.
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Posts: 1245
Location: Madtown, WI | Being an owner of a 1760 Deep V In know what an awesome hull it is....is the new 1760 GC the same hull just without the caps??
Cory |
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Posts: 156
Location: Oconomowoc, WI | Really want see the new 1760 GT and GC!!! When??? |
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| Really want see the new 1760 GT and GC!!! When???
soon! very soon!
there's an 1760 GT at the factory right now with my name on it...
Cory, my understanding was: same hull, new interior, no cap (compared to your '02).
however, the website says:
2005 marks yet another watershed year for Tuffy Boats. Always forward looking, the engineering team at Tuffy completely redesigned the time tested and tournament proven Deep V Osprey and Esox Deep V hulls. The result is form, function, and good looks built into a fishing craft perfectly suited to the needs of the multi specie angler.
Steve???
Edited by lambeau 12/16/2005 4:08 PM
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| I can't wait to see my NEW boat....a Tuffy!!! 
Any pics yet?? |
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Posts: 2091
Location: Stevens Point, WI | Happens to be my current boat my Tuffy. Handles big water great, fast, lot's of room and perfect for two anglers. It will have to be my dream boat for a few more years!
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Posts: 32886
Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin | The new 1760 is exactly that, the new 2005 interior Esox Deep V with the Exox Mag gunnels. Of course, that requires a complete redesign on the deck and hull. The profile will be about 8" lower, which is alot. The front deck will be the same layout created in '05, with an 8'6" center load rod locker, etc.
I am curious though, what IS the perfect muskie interior? I'd like to see some ideas based on what is desired, not just what's currently available; always looking for input! |
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Posts: 355
Location: Wausau, Wisconsin | My esox magnum is nothing short of a musky fishing platform from God. The boat is ideal for fishing muskies on most all of the waters I fish. The comfort and stability is ideal for several people. Now with fishing Winnebago, Green Bay and Lake of the Woods with regularity, I can't wait for the new models. My magnum is for sale. 2005 with 5 months use. Fully loaded with a 60hp Suzuki 4. |
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Posts: 3518
Location: north central wisconsin | I have been dead set on getting a 618 T, though I am disturbed that this boat does not come with, or accept a rear deck/deck extension. My perfect layout is a tiller rig(will own nothing but), tiller extension with ample rear casting deck space, with easily accessed batteries, chargers etc. Small front deck(4.5' would be perfect) as I fish at the tip of the boat now, with side decks/storage, wide enough to stand on and at the same level as both front and back decks. I'd prefer the 618 console hull in a tiller. Being used to the size of an esox magnum tiller, will not allow me to reduce floor space. Front deck lure storage would be a plus(a very big plus), and side or floor lockers of 9' would be preffered.
I also require that my butt seat post hole be centered close to the bow. I need to be able to lean on it, and keep one foot up on the bow(placement of the deck seat mount has been one of my biggest gripes). Ranger might as well leave the deck seat right out or add another one, as it is too far away from the front and sides for me to ever use as is.
Decent interior lights are also a must, as is true dry storage, and a decent cooler. 60" livewell not needed here either, though rear bait well with timed recirc pump is a must.
The Tuffy you people are describing almost sounds inviting. I thought I'd never even look at one. Need to check out the new 1760 on the water. What does the side deck/gunnel system look like?
Edited by Reef Hawg 12/17/2005 3:51 PM
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Posts: 814
| Reef Hawg: I could be wrong but I am about 90% sure that on the new 1760 gt there is no side gunnell to stand on like the esox mag you can't walk all the way around like you can on the mag. Also if you buy the 1760 gt tiller you CANNOT get the rear casting deck because you won't be able to steer the motor. So the Only real platform is in front but it is large enough for 2 people to cast from. Now as for the caps it will have the same caps as the esox magnum does. Hope this helps. Mike
Now for my ultimate Musky Rig:
18+ feet long!
Must be tiller model Only!! I need all the floor space you can get.
Must have a wide beam at least a 96 inch like Lund has, (wider the beam the more stable it is)
Must have Completely Dry storage like on the new Tuffy's
No need for the large livewell just a baitwell The Large livewell is wasted space, should be dry storage.
Now just put the esox mag interior in a deep v with everything I mentioned above and I believe you have the ultimate musky boat
it will fish 3 people very effectively and ALL people will have a platform which makes fishing gliders and figure 8's alot easier!
If there is a boat out there like this please give me some info as I am in the market!!!!!
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Posts: 3518
Location: north central wisconsin | You and I should just design our own rig!!! Dissapointed that the 1760 has no rear deck option, darn. I don't buy that it can't be steered. My buddy runs an old 681T with a deck extension, and can steer just fine, though he does have a slight tiller extension. Seems that we tiller guys are lumped in with the right handed reel guys. Not alot to choose from in models that we prefer. |
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| If you want a rear deck extension in a 1760 Tuffy tiller you can get it, but must test first to make sure you can steer from the seated position with an extension. From what I've heard the rear livewell is basically a deck unto itself though. |
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Posts: 32886
Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin | If you use a tiller handle extension, the rear deck would be just fine in the 1760. I believe that Merten's handle is longer for a couple of the brands of outboards. The rear of that boat has more walkable and fishable area WITHOUT a deck than most do WITH. Also, there is a 1/2 deck (again, this is also a storage box) option that can be mounted either side, allowing one to get close to the transom with the seating and still have an extended 'side tank' storage box either side. The 1890 will have even MORE fishable and walkable area. Think now, if a deck extension makes it tough to reach the handle, the area that is standard has to be pretty substantial. The rear deck in the Esox Deep V models is really quite large, remembering that one can walk all over the splashwell area unlike most other boats.
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| i plan on modifying my 1760 tiller to accept a deck extension: mounting a pin-base seat on the extension neatly solves this problem, similar to what i did in my old ranger (jacorn's boat as of today.)
esox deep-v back deck (console version, so this has the extra insert, but you can see the two pieces).
my old deck extension "solution".
Edited by lambeau 12/17/2005 7:42 PM
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| reef hawg and i think alike!
my perfect rig:
- tiller open floor layout
- ample front deck with bump seat near the front so i can lean on it and still figure-8 easily
- lure storage - i hate having lures laying or hanging around (this is what homemade rear extensions are for...build it in!)
- rod lockers long enough for muskie size gear with built-in separators/holders
- true dry storage
- cooler (love my mountain dew...)
- accessories: interior night-lighting (red or green bulbs), radio/cd
- deep-v hull for the waves, low gunnels for easy access to the water
the Tuffy 1760 hits on these items, especially once i play with the rear seat/deck extension placement in the tiller version. |
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Posts: 921
Location: Apollo, PA | Michael,
That is excellent, Tuffy should make that option a reality for those of us that can't build it> |
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| take a sec and compare the pic of the tuffy with the deck extension to the pic of my old ranger with the rear deck installed. i'm just eyeballing things here (until i've got my new boat in the garage) but the size of the rear deck areas looks very similar.
on my old ranger i placed the pin-hole for the seat close enough to the edge that i could sit in the seat with my legs over the edge and still comfortably reach the tiller handle...should be able to do that in the new one too, right?
i think the tuffy extension might look slightly bigger...thus a tiller handle extender would be helpful, and as steve mentioned, aftermarket power steering adds 2" to the length of the tiller handle.
there's got to be other people out there running tiller's with big rear casting decks. what have you done? how big is too big? what are the pros and cons of yours for making the "ultimate muskie boat"??? |
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Posts: 3518
Location: north central wisconsin | Thanks for the response Mike. You will be called to help build an extension for me, for any rig I choose(hopefully I can pay with fishing trips or something)!!! You, muskihtr, and I are not the only ones who like the same things in a rig. We tiller guys need to be heard!!!
Looking at the top view(thanks for posting it Steve), it does look as though there is some room to cast up there now. Is the rear splash area almost level with the deck as it looks? I thought that the rear was layed out more like a 618T(that has no rear deck at all). I was wrong. In talking about the ultimate rig, though, the front deck is still much too big for me. I need more actual floor space for storage of equipment. I require enough room to lay my net flat on the floor with the handle extended. What is the length of floor between decks as is? Wish I wasn't so picky. Wife is glad that I am though, as I haven't spent any money yet. That 1760 is definately as close as anything I've seen yet, though, to being it. Would love to see one in person soon. Has the dry storage been improved in the Tuffy line? I know I've had problems with the older ones.
In all honesty, I think Ranger should really offer a Tiller with a deck as well, or at least an add on, and alternative mounting area for guages(who had the bright idea to put them where they are...DOGhH).
Do you have a picture of the bottom of the hull of the 1760?
Edited by Reef Hawg 12/18/2005 8:50 AM
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Location: Contrarian Island | Geez Jason you are picky! You could put your net sideways along the one of the sidewall and have the handle extended and locked...I do that in my Lund..works just fine
I'd really like to see the 1760 console to see how roomy it is...Steve, will there be one at any of the shows? what are the specs on that 1760 console? 17'6" by how wide?
Any idea what it will run top speed with a 150?
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Posts: 32886
Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin | Storage:
Yes. The storage in all the Esox Deep V models are fiberglass lockers that are glassed to the liner before the liner is glassed into the boat. In other words, imagine ALL the storage, including the rod locker, built and installed like livewells with no plumbing.
Net Room:
If you have three seats, you can extend a net and set it on the inside on the floor. The 4th seat will get in the way.
Deck Space:
Either you have large dry storage, lots of floor space, and a 8'6" rod locker ( top row in the rack), OR you have a short deck. There are a couple models out there that are 17'6" and have just a 6.5 or 6.75' rodlocker because the front deck is shorter. Tough to have the best of both worlds, because a large side tank on both sides eats the floor space up as it did in the pre-2005 1760 Esox Deep V model and invites less than dry storage problems as well. The front deck will easily and comfortably fish two.
Splashwell:
Yes, the splashwell and rear livewell area are exactly level, so one can use that entire surface. Tuffy actually traction coats that area, covering up polyflake in the process. Not as prettty as if we left the polyflake surface, but you'd otherwise slip on the smooth mold surface rendering that area useless for anything but keeping water out of the boat.
Top speed with a 150 4 stroke, Opti or E Tech:
Jack plate the rig with a 6" set back, prop it right, and with two anglers and a full load you will run mid 50's and near 60 with empty livewell and 18 gallons of gas, our dealers know how to rig a 1760 C to be a rocket. Full load means all gear, full gas tank, and a full livewell. Place the engine one hole up on the standard 25" transom, and you will run about 50 to 52.
Beam:
There are many boats out there that fish muskies very well. Hull design and beam are a function of at rest stability and ride. Too wide, and the ride is very rough and wet in big water. Not wide enough and interior room and stability are effected. Take your hand and slap the water palm flat, then slap the water with the edge. Which hits you harder? Also, wetted surface has alot to do with speed, the less wetted surface trimmed out and wide open, the faster the boat because there is less drag. Tuffy design engineers work to get a near perfect balance and have done a pretty good job of it, IMHO. The 1760 GT/GC has an 84" beam.
Aluminum models by Lund, Lowe, Crestliner, Alumacraft and newcomer to the big freshwater tournament boat, Polar Kraft, come to mind as nice muskie rigs. Ranger, Triton, Yar Craft, Warrior, and a number of others build very nice Walleye boats that adapt well to the muskie angler. Look at them all, compare features, benefits, and pricing, and make an informed decision based upon what it is you are trying to accomplish with the purchase. All are nice boats! |
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Location: Contrarian Island | Great stuff Steve,
I'm definitely going to look at the 1760 console...when can I see one first hand? one at the factory now by chance?
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Posts: 3518
Location: north central wisconsin | Great info. I haven't gleaned this much info from thread in a long, long time! I find it very inviting, the fact that the splash area is also a fishable platform(one of my gripes about alot of other tiller rigs). I guess I need to see one now. Does Tuffy install a good keel guard, or does one need to go after merket? Anything for interior lighting? |
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Posts: 91
Location: Pinckney, Michigan | These are the must haves for me:
- Tiller model (need the space to move around the boat)
- Ample dry storage which has to really be "dry storage and not just called dry storage
- 9' rod lockers with individual inserts ( bass boats)
- Large tackle storage
- I like the 50" live well in my Crestliner 1750 but rarely use it
- Large front deck, decent rear deck
- Deep V with medium gunnels
- Cooler
- Front and rear bait well
- Good storage area for net. If someone comes up with this they should be rich! |
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Posts: 10
Location: Indianapolis | How about the Tundra by Tracker 18' walk thru 135 opti nice boat. |
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| I like my Ranger 618 console better than any boat I've been in. It's got a deeper hull than a bass style so it can handle big water like Vermillion or Lake of the Woods. It sits low to the water when not moving. I added a deck extension on the front and a deck extension on the back. Basically, the whole boat is deck. The only thing I don't like about it is rod storage. I took two Lakewoods box inserts and put them under the back deck for a hidden tackle box. With a 140 Suzuki and a Minn Kota Genesis, this boat rocks!
Ty
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Location: Contrarian Island | Ty, what are you going to buy when you sell that one?
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| Ranger 621, 250 Merc Racing outboard, and a 9.9 merc kicker.
Casting deck in rear comes out when you're fishing more than 2 people, with plenty of casting room along the sides. Plenty of room for 4 or 5 for trolling or sucker soaking. The only boat I've felt safe in when BIG waves come along. Plenty of storage for everything, including about 12 rods......baitwell and a 50" livewell in back. Room for a card table with 4 seats at it.
I'm curious as to why not many people said the 621? |
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| I'm curious as to why not many people said the 621?
maybe 21' long x 8' wide is just too much boat for the waters where most people spend the majority of their time fishing?
i'm looking for a boat that can handle small landing pond-jumping or cutting the waves on bigger lakes. |
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Location: Contrarian Island | It might be from the 55k pricetag and the fact you need an aircraft hanger for a garage  ....it is overkill on most waters..granted a great boat if you have the money but not really the perfect rig for all waters IMO... |
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Posts: 1245
Location: Madtown, WI | Jason-
Answer your questions on the Tuffy. I have been running a 1760 Esox Deep V now for....3 years??
The platform in back with the black sticky stuff works great for standing. I have the old version where you have the side caps (which I actually like) and the sides like the old Mag where you can walk all the way around. My front deck is much shorter then the new model and I still fish two people up front...the new ones have TON of room on the front deck to fish two people. I know you don't like the big front decks, but your not compromising floor space in the new models because they added floor space sideways. My first concern with the new model was taking away my walk around, thus less people can fish. But after seeing how they have improved the front deck, and the back deck....I think I like the newer version better.
I have not been in any other ~18 foot boat that has a better running hull then the 1760 deep V.....
If it was up to my wife we would have a new model 1760 right now!!!! BUT, I still love the one I have
Oh, and I had Tuffy install my keelguard at the factory....haven't had any problems with it at all...and I have run it up on many a landings and Canadian rocks.
Feel free to call me if you have any other questions!
Cory
Edited by C.Painter 12/20/2005 8:17 AM
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Posts: 654
Location: MPLS, MN | IMO the best under $20,000 w Motor is the Crestliner 1750 CMV. |
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| MSKY HNR, I'm going to get the exact same rig after I sell the one I have.
Ty |
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Posts: 1536
Location: God's Country......USA..... Western Wisconsin | No one has mentioned it yet and it is fairly new. Triton has a "Bass/ Walleye"
hybrid out there the TR 21 XD. (XD stands for extra deep) Walleye hull with a Bass cap on it. Looks like a great boat to me. Might be a bit large and a little pricey for some but what an awesome boat to fish out of. Large decks, massive rod lockers and tons or trully dry storage. Lacking the 60" livewell but most of us do not need one of those anyway. This is a boat that looks to be in a class by itself. I know it will handle the big water as well. Bolt on a 250 E Tec and this thing will rock. |
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Posts: 2515
Location: Waukesha & Land O Lakes, WI | I kinda like the 52 Edition Ranger 620 I ordered. I had 2 extra rump seat holes installed, so now I have a 3 hole putting green on the spacious bow deck. I can also practice my chipping onto the rear casting platform...had a couple of Holes in 1 last season.
(52 edition Ranger 620.jpg)
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Posts: 1937
Location: Black Creek, WI | I'm with Ty... and love the Ranger 618. Basically a bigger, faster version of my 681. Put the old "wide open" rod locker of the 681 in the new 618 and I'd be totally satisfied.
Out of curiousity... what is the advantage of a tiller model in a boat 18+ feet long?
jlong |
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Posts: 2515
Location: Waukesha & Land O Lakes, WI | No console(s) to run into....more room to move. I've been in plenty of 619 dual consoles that have less interior room than a Fishhawk tiller. The 618 console has only 83" of beam, the tiller is 90". I'll take more space and the wind in my face any day. |
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Location: Contrarian Island | I agree with Gander on the 619 Duals not having alot of room to roam but in that size boat I think going with a single console is way better...I've been in a few 619 single consoles and those are very roomy and can handle the big stuff and can flat out fly...
I think I need to take a look at the 618 single console from what you guys say...I wish Ranger was smart enough to just make the 618 tiller hull in a console version...but they aren't...
Anyone look at the Triton 177 by chance in a single console version????
And really, would you even notice if a boat was 83 or 84" wide as opposed to 90" wide..I mean we are talking 7 to 8 inches...less than the size of most of our baits..!
Edited by MSKY HNR 12/20/2005 2:18 PM
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| And really, would you even notice if a boat was 83 or 84" wide as opposed to 90" wide..I mean we are talking 7 to 8 inches...less than the size of most of our baits..!
well, yes and no - i think it depends on the layout.
8" (or .66 foot) isn't very much...until you multiply it by 12 feet of length before the bow curves in.
12 x .66 = almost 8 square feet of additional floor space! that's quite a bit.
to my way of thinking, many boats waste that space with narrow compartments or even worse, wide gunnels with hard-to-access pocket compartments. then it doesn't matter.
but if it's open floor or deck space, it's great. an extra 6" between the seats? nice. extra width to step back on while fighting a fish? very nice. wider compartments for less crowding? great.
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Location: Contrarian Island | I can see myself making a custom storage compartment running up the left side of the 1760 console already...so you could be able to walk around the entire side from front to back on that side of the boat....hmmmmm
Mike you any good at woodwork?
I think my current boat is 84" and I think that is not exactly narrow with lots of storage and room
Edited by MSKY HNR 12/20/2005 2:38 PM
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Posts: 3518
Location: north central wisconsin | Thanks Cory. I would like to see yours some time. Would actually prefer the shorter front deck(huge front decks are a waste to me), but see your point as without the side storage, its addition was needed. I need floor space in my rig. Too much bouncing around in waves, rocks, and river structure(trees etc) and current(stuff flies or gets pulled out if on decks). I kow lots of deck is nice for some guys, but not for everyone, and we should be able to customize darn it! I do like Ty's idea for lure storage(might be a use for my old lakewood boxes after all). A tiller has so many advantages for our type of fishing. I need the quick response in steering through narrow river/creek channels first of all, and like to 'feel' what is down there, which is tough to do with a console(when tapping 'stuff', which is reality unfortunately). Also, with the little trolling I do, I prefer it in a tiller(again, more resposive which I need in rocky environs). The main reason, is space. I am used to the space that an esox mag provides, and don't want to lose that, and don't want to go up to a 20' rig to compensate for console space. I like to be able to lay rods on both sides of the boat(which might be an issue with the new 1760?).
Also, even when fishing Lake Michigan, LOTW or other big waters, we rarely run more than 20 minutes(even in fall that is not bad), and it is usually under 3 minutes for 90% of our fishing, so a console isn't neccessary for comfort as it will be so rarely used. Besides, my wife would always be mad that I was the only one that had a windshield(that might be the main reason right there...). Also, with the new one on the way shortly, I need the room to get the play pen in the floor of the boat, and still have room for other stuff.....
Can't wait to see the 1760 and 1890 in person.
Edited by Reef Hawg 12/20/2005 3:03 PM
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Posts: 16632
Location: The desert | What do you guys consider the single most important feature a boat must have when you purchase one? Some day I will be in the market for a nice boat and would like some tips.
Mike |
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Location: Contrarian Island | Personally I am only going to a console for the added speed factor...one I like to go fast and 2 it will add up to more fishing time in a given day....granted it might only be an hour but that is one more hour of casting...say on my Lac Seul trip this last Aug. if I had been able to run 55 rather than 28, that could add up to maybe an hour more of fishing time...in a given day if I put on maybe 40 - 60 miles that might add up to quite a bit more casting...yah it's always thinking you are running wide open but I did that with my tiller...that one more hour in a day of your bait in the water might just be another 50"er or 2 for the trip....maybe, maybe not...but I do like to go fast.
Edited by MSKY HNR 12/20/2005 3:21 PM
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| ...but I do like to go fast.
ha! this from the guy who also has a speedboat for wakeboarding...
the beauty of this is that it's not a "which is best?" kind of thing.
it's a question of "which is better for my needs?" because they make all kinds of boats.
i spent the last couple years fishing out of a great used boat (Ranger 681T) as well as paying attention when in someone else's boat.
that taught me a TON about what it is i like and dislike in a fishing boat.
i like open space and i like enough storage to keep everything put away but easily accessible.
i like a deep hull but i want to be close to the water when figure-8ing or unhooking a fish.
i like a smooth ride, and i want to move quick but don't need to fly.
i want to be confident in my boat when the weather turns.
and yes, i like to tinker and can't leave well enough alone. i will be tweaking things to my taste, including either converting or creating lockable lure storage compartments. one hint: make sure to get Inhibitor chips for dry lure storage...the lures hold moisture and that will mean rusty hooks if you don't prevent it.
Edited by lambeau 12/20/2005 6:34 PM
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Location: Contrarian Island | I don't have that speedboat JUST for wakeboarding...bikinis!...and it does do 55mph with 4 people in it to ya know....yah, it's the kind of boat I hate when I'm musky fishing but it sure is fun in the summer....
As for your post...totally agree, there is no perfect boat for everyone... all depends on where you fish, how many people you have in your boat most often (ie guides), how much storage and deck space you want and need, and what your garage and budget will allow...
good thread!
Edited by MSKY HNR 12/20/2005 6:55 PM
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Posts: 1936
Location: Eau Claire, WI | Reef Hawg... Jason, I think you would be pleasantly surprised at the floor space of the current 1760 T model. I had the opportunity to see one with the factory rear deck extension up at Wild River Sports this summer... There is a ton of room on the floor, and if you make a rear extension like Lambeau is going to ( a great design I might add, IMHO) you would still have the room that I think you desire. You mention butt seat placement and that too is a special requirement of mine and I hate where Ranger has it in their 618 models. Mine in my 690 is up closer to the bow and Tuffy's new one is closer yet and it is right in the sweet spot. It allows you to work either side of bow without getting off the seat.
For those that haven't seen one of the new Tuffy's first hand I can tell you it has the finest center-line rod locker that I have ever seen.. Head and shoulders above Rangers by a long way. I had the opportunity to drive and pretend fish, and load about 6-8 of my rods in one of the first new 1760 prototypes in the summer of 04 and the rod locker is unbelievable.. Lambeau, you aren't going to know what to do with all that room...you're gonna have to buy some more rods or put a dog bed in there for you Lab..:)
Additionally the new 1760 sits as flat in the water as their Esox Mags do... and it should track behind the trolling motor like it's on rails.
For those looking at a tiller rig that will handle any WI water and still give them the safety to go to LOTW or MN the 1760 is definately worth checking out... And it won't break the bank either.
To help answer your question on Tuffy factory keel guards. My friend who purchased the last new tuffy I owned (July 2001) from a client who purchased it from me originally is storing that rig in my shop and the keel guard looks as good as the day I picked the boat up in Lake Mills. The folks in Lake Mills can turn out some of the highest quality products on the market today.
Now to throw my .02 cents in the ring... I used to be a tiller freak since the late 70's but have really grown to like consols again. I currently run a Ranger 690 and to me it has the ultimate interior layout, I like side tank type layouts and the current 618C is just a bit small in terms of storage and leg room when driving. Like someone said earlier, if they would put it in the 618 Tiller hull, and forget the darn rod tubes and make it an open locker I would already have one on order... Like Reef Hawg... I too think they missed the boat by not offering a rear deck option in the 618T, but then again that rig was designed with the walleye guys in mind. But I love the side tank design and man do they ever have the storage...
Like Norm, I'm looking forward to seeing the new 18' model Tuffy in a single consol version with the optional storage compartments/decks.
Steve, I hope Tuffy is still going to offer the top-cap as an option.. There's still a few of us out there that like that look and are willing to pay a little extra for it.
Lambeau, Congratulations on your new rig... You're gonna love that hull.
Jason, you really need to check them out, suspect you will pleasantly surprised and it will be a darn close fit to most all of your expectations. |
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Posts: 507
| Mark,
The GT and GC models will have the narrower gunnels like the Esox Mag, all the other Deep V models will have the full cap, new consoles, etc. Should have new pictures soon! |
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Posts: 561
Location: Monee, Illinois | My Crestliner 1850 fishhawk is great for the $$$$ Great back casting deck rides well and lots of storage...
pga |
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Posts: 3518
Location: north central wisconsin | Mark,
thank you for the insightful response. To be totally honest, I fish too much(my wife tells me)to pay attention to what is out there, regarding equipment. I am typically out of the loop, and only see what is on the lakes I fish. Up to now, I have liked what I see in the fisherman series Ranger, but there so many things I'd change about them, I've been leary to buy... Wife has cautioned me to wait(I've been threatening to buy a new rig for 3 years now, and it is TIME!!!), as something I like will come along. If what you say is true(regarding butt seat placement, floor space, and rear deck) I think I really need to get to a show of some sort this winter(been avoiding them the past couple seasons as I always buy stuff I don't need) and check them out. Would you say the tiller model has enough casting room with the standard deck and splash area? Will the gunnels accept C-clamp style Down East rod holders(I prefer them)?
Edited by Reef Hawg 12/21/2005 3:01 PM
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Posts: 1936
Location: Eau Claire, WI | Jason,
Sorry for the delay, I've been out of town for work and away from the board since the other night. To answer your question, Yes, I believe that if a person would stand on the livewell/battery compartment and one foot on the anti-skid in the livewell you could fish there comfortably. If you want a butt seat base in the livewell cover talk to Steve about it, I think it is doable, I spoke to Steve Bendall at Fiberdome about it and he thought they could get it done. Nice thing about dealing with companies like Tuffy is that depending on the customers request, you can get some things specific to your rig, within reason. Of the three Tuffy's I ran, strenght for rod holders of any style was never an issue, wouldn't expect to be an issue with the new lineup either.
Take the time to go see one... they are a swee rig for the size I really think it would darn close to your expectations.
Have a Merry Christmas, I'm on the road again for a few days so I appologize for delayed responses.
Wishing all ya'all a Cool Yule... |
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Posts: 144
| Hi everybody I'm new to the forum. I run a dual console 619. The passenger console does take up some room but the glove box is worth its weight in gold! I had the 618 console prior to the 619. I my opinion, if someone is looking for a boat to fish bigger rougher waters, they will be unhappy with 618 console. It sits low to the water and when trolling in rough or windy conditions you take on a lot more water than you would in the tuffy or the bigger fisherman series boats. It is tough to fish more than two people in the 618 too. The more I see of the new tuffy deep-v boats the more I like them. If their fit and finish is as good as their design I think they would blow the 618 out of the water. just my opinion |
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Posts: 921
Location: Apollo, PA | Hey Matt,
I was looking at the Ranger 620s the other day. Found one on the internet semi-reasonable$$
Have you fished out of them, and what do you think of them as far as being able to handle big water? thanks, PS |
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| They are awesome boats to fish out of. It might be tough getting the 620 into some of those small lakes with shallow launches though. It's a lot of boat. I really like the 618 and the 681 that is no longer made. They will handle some rough water, but you can get them into a shallow launch on some of the smaller lakes. |
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| 618 is an excellent muskie rig. Great deck space, easy boat control, low in the water when fishing, nice ride even in a chop. Can comfortably fish three with the added front deck. Rod storage is a weakness, but other than that, I couldn't be happier. |
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