Looking for input on 18-19’ bass boats.

I’m limited to that length due to garage size. I can’t go over 23’ total trailer/boat length so 19’ is probably my max with a swing away tongue.

Some of my criteria is single console with sufficient legroom for me (6’3” tall), minimum 7 1/2’ rod storage compartment(s) and large rear deck (4’ min.). Ride comfort is a premium.

Looking at used only ( due to price) probably 5-10 years old to try and stay in the $25k range.

I’ve owned close to 20 boats in my lifetime, with multiple bass boats, but this will be my last one at 73 years old.

Biggest waters I fish are the Kissimmee and Harris chains, but mainly the St. John’s river, Stick Marsh/Headwaters and smaller lakes.

One of my neighbors has a Stratos 189 which checks all the boxes ( but he doesn’t want to sell🤣) so it’s on my list plus Triton, Nitro and some others.

Keep in mind some boats age better than others. If you’ve owned 30 bass boats over the years, I would guess you have a pretty good idea of what you want, especially at the age and price point you are looking at. I will say from my experience, older Rangers seem to hold up really well and they are good platforms to fish from.

I agree that the Ranger platform is very stable. I am sure that you know a 19’ is roomier and more stable than an 18’. Champion 196 would be a good choice.

@TOXIC @Jig Man any experience with the Ranger Z185?

Not personally owned a Ranger in a long time. I just know their reputation and see a bunch on the water. I ran a Champion for 14 years.

I don’t think anyone has done a better job than Ranger in the 18 foot class for a long time.

I’ve fished out of a couple Z185’s, and they’re a very nice boat - very clearly descended from the 360 series of yesteryear. If I were to get a new(er) boat than my 363V though, I’d probably go Z519 just for the width.

I fish big water and was guiding for 15 years so my experience is all with 20-21ft models but I have ridden in a lot of smaller rigs. Current Ranger ownership conversations aside, older Rangers do hold up very well and are undisputed in fishability. I have a 2005 Z21 that has been great and I owned a 2000 NITRO 929 that was also a great rig. I would have zero hesitation buying an older Ranger as long as it passed normal inspection criteria. You may pay a little more for the Ranger nameplate but IMHO it’s worth it.

I have a 2005 Nitro nx 882 bought new in 2004. 150 hp XR6. The only regret I have EVER had is when it got choppy my 18' 2" rig had a tough time. If I were to do it again (I'm 80 so not likely) it would be 19' or more. The seemingly small difference is remarkable when the " white caps" show up. This is another casse where " bigger is better". I don't care what brand.

Best of luck with your 31st boat. 😉

Thanks all.

@Nitro 882 I would go bigger but I’m limited to my garage. Not moving any time in the future.

I’ve found a couple of Ranger 185 I like and leaning heavily towards them.

1 hour ago, SC53 said:

Thanks all.

@Nitro 882 I would go bigger but I’m limited to my garage. Not moving any time in the future.

I’ve found a couple of Ranger 185 I like and leaning heavily towards them.

Don't let the garage space limit you. My Nitro NX882 has been stored outside in New England weather for 21 years. Get a quality boat cover and your all set. Also, if my boat is at home , the on-board charger is plugged in

Ya gotta think outside the garage.😀