hey guys, I just got my first bass boat.  I scored an '88 Stratos 256V.  i'ts only 15'6" long but it's plenty for me.  it has the same model Evinrude 70hp motor.  It's in pretty good shape as is.  this weekend i plan to detail it, wash wax/polish and see how it comes out.  i have a buddy who's grandfather owns a marina and i may get it detailed there.  I also know a guy who will sand it down and shoot a new gel coat for like 400 bucks. it's gonna need carpet, and i'm probably gonna buy some new seats.  the best part of the whole deal is, i only gave $1200 for it, boat, motor, and trailer.  please let me know what you guys think, and i'll try to get some pics up soon.

Josh

you got a great deal! You will love that stratos. You may want to try to sand and buff the existing gel coat, it may shine up like new. Stratos puts plent of gelcoat on their finishes so i would try that first. Enjoy your new boat.

Great deal, I wish i could have bought it!!! ;D

Like gambler said try sanding and buffing that old gel coat. I used to run my own detail shop and did quite a bit of boats. Talk to your guy who said he would paint it. MAKE sure it gets wet sanded properlly. If they are not carefull the will sand right through that gel coat, also when they buff it! Good luck and congradulations