ryancompetition2

I'm new to the forums so won't let me PM. Could I get a copy of the link as well? Thanks, -Todd

Well, I found a nice Z-7 (18'8", 150HP) that I'm in the process of purchasing. All approved and completing the transaction. I'd like to hear recommendations on outfitting this boat with depth finders for the console and bow. The original finders I gave back to the original owner as I wanted to upgrade from what he had. Have been looking at the Humminbird 798ci (console) and 778c (bow) but was also considering the 898 for the console too. Other thoughts were possibly an HDS-7 (console) and HDS-5 for the bow. I definitely want side imaging as well as GPS functionality. The boat will be used to fish up here in the Pacific Northwest in places like Moses Lake, Liberty Lake, Snake, Columbia, etc... for fun and hopefully some local level tournaments. Any and all suggestions welcome. Thanks, -Todd

Thanks for all the replies, definitely gives me insight into what to think about. The waters I'm thinking I'll be on are in Washington state primarily. I live in Spokane which gives me access to the Columbia River, Snake River, Spokane River, Long Lake, Moses Lake & Potholes, Liberty Lake (Joey Nania territory), and other variuous areas. Everything around here takes us 20-40 minutes to travel end to end with my buddy's Prohawk w/90 HP, this doesn't include going through dam locks of course. Depths are up to the 50'+ range I believe. Wind is usually pretty manageable (5-15mph) for most days. I'd like to be able to store the boat in my garage which is 21.5' deep. Local dealers sell Triton, Skeeter, Ranger, and Stratos boats. I was thinking new but $23K gets you about a 17' boat w/115HP. A 2006 used 18' would probably be in the $18K range. I was thinking all welded aluminum hulled models for their resistance to abrasions (rocks, docks, etc...) but I've been told the glass boats are much better performing. Thanks again for all the info. -Todd

Hello, I live in the pacific northwest and have been Bass fishing for a year now. I have been fly-fishing for many years but the fun I've had this past year tells me that this sport/hobby is something I want to pursue. I am looking at buying a boat and wanted advice. My goal for the next year or two is to be on the water as much as possible and gain experience. After that, I'd like to start on the local tournament scene and see where things go. Currently, I'm looking for a boat in the 15-20K price range and the 17-19 foot length range as well. I would like something that would give me the flexibility to fish various areas that I could learn with. Probably use it to get started on the tournament scene at a local level but would probably get something more specific for competition as I develop. So, the question is what would you recommend? I'd like to hear from people that have followed the same path from newbie to local tournament level as I'd like to gain insight from their advice. Thanks for your time, -Todd