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.😀

I would recommend you take a look at a Phoenix 818 I believe that would fit in your garage. I have a 819 my garage is 23’6 and it fits the ride is great and it is very stable and comfortable fishing.

Aluminum, I'd get another Lund Pro-BV Bass 1875. Unbelievable storage and rear seating set up...

Glass, I'd be in a Phoenix...

10 hours ago, FryDog62 said:

Aluminum, I'd get another Lund Pro-BV Bass 1875. Unbelievable storage and rear seating set up...

Glass, I'd be in a Phoenix...

No Lund dealerships down here. Used Lunds are non existent too.

Phoenix not in my budget.

See if there's any Alumacraft available - they're also well built and durable.

27 minutes ago, MN Fisher said:

See if there's any Alumacraft available - they're also well built and durable.

I assume he's looking for a bass boat. I don't think Alumacraft makes one. I know they definitely don't make fiberglass boats too.

I can understand the thought process of trying to locate a boat with dealer/service proximity nearby though. Nothing worse than having to haul your boat 2 hours away for a problem.

7 minutes ago, gim said:

I don't think Alumacraft makes one.

Not directly - but looking over the 'Trophy', I think it'd make a really good substitute at a fairly reasonable price.

3 hours ago, SC53 said:

No Lund dealerships down here. Used Lunds are non existent too.

Phoenix not in my budget.

Not sure where you are in Florida, but a friend of mine brought his Lund at Liquid Planet Marine in Clermont just West of Orlando. He said reviews on the prior owners were mixed, but the new owners have been a good experience.

I found a Ranger Z185 I like and doing a water test tomorrow morning.

If everything checks out, I’ll be towing it home tomorrow 🤞

@SC53 don't forget pictures in the "show your ride" thread if it comes to fruition.

@gim oh you know I will 😉