Can anyone tell me how the Z19 handles in rough water? I am looking at one, but before I purchase I’d like to know if they handle ok in the chop. I realize it’s not a 21 footer, but it’s also not a 17 footer, so just curious. 

Only been on one once, two days on a guides boat at Chickamauga.  The first day was pretty choppy and I think it handled the waves very well.  I get sea sickness sometimes and it didn't seem to bother me at all!  Limited experience but that is my thoughts on it!

Your right it’s not a 21’ but the one I was on handle a normal big lake chop “Seneca” just fine. 

You will also be surprised at the room it has also!  My brother and I and our guide all fished off of it comfortably.  Guide and I on the front deck and my brother off the back deck.  My brother and I are not small men!  haha

Question is how good are you at driving a boat in rough water?

 

I've ridden in a Champion 210 Elite & the driver beat me to death! I wanted to reach over & Gibbs slap him!

 

19' boat that has a 7' 10" beam with a 200 hp, you'll be fine.

 

I ran an 18 1/2 Skeeter in all types of weather for ten years.   It's not so much about the size of your boat as how you handle it.   Salt water fisherman know that their boat has more than two speeds.  Many bass fisherman seem to be stuck in high.  There is a speed and trim setting where a boat is comfortable.  Find that setting and you will not get wet or beat the heck out of your backside.  

The MLF use both Z19 and Bass Cat Pantera Classic boats. I know the Pantera Classic 19’6” rides good on rough white capped water, never fished in a Z19.

Tom