Looking to buy a used or new rig. Would like to hear input on which brand everyone likes the best. Currently run a Triton.

Thanks

That's a really hard question to answer. Everyone is going to post their favorite brand, but it all depends what you want/need.

Do you want a large boat with a huge deck? Or something smaller? Are you running rough water most of the time? Is money an issue?

I personally run a Ranger Z520 and absolutely love it and will probably buy another Ranger. The fit and finish seems to be the best to me.

I want a 20' with big deck space that can handle rough water. I was thinking Ranger or Triton

Phoenix 920

Skeeter iclass would be my choice.

Don't know where your at but if your close to fork and want to ride in a FX20 skeeter let me know be happy to put her through the paces for you. Its almost like owning a giant jet ski that you can fish in! I love it. Phoenix makes a good boat too but the skeeter handles the rough stuff just a touch better IMO. Slightly better hole shot too I think.

Me personally after owning a Triton, I don't think they are that great in rough water. May have been my boat/the driver but my Cat is 10 times better.

Its honestly a ford/chevy debate when it comes to what brand. Me, I will always own a Bass Cat.

I used to be very impressed with Triton when I was a young boy living in Longview, back when they came out and hit the shows they were the hot ticket for a minute, but I feel like they haven't ages very gracefully, and while used they represent a good value in many ways the new boats don't stand up dollar for dollar against the competition.

Buying new or used, as someone who cares about having a fast stable rig that is thoughtfully layed out (design>deckspace overall imo) I would be HARD pressed not to check out blazer bass boats as I've seen them on the web and in person and spoken to owners who are on their 2nd or even 3rd rig from them and are happy as heck. I also have been really impressed with the ride and fit and finish of a lot of the charger boats I see, those things are tanks. If they crash tested boats, I bet they'd come out very high! haha

Of course any of the big names will be reputable for a reason and have quality craftsmanship for the most part... Legend, Ranger, Pheonix, Basscat, etc. the list goes on from top tier to mid pack, just depends on what you truly want in a rig, which will make you happiest.

Like I said, first and foremost for me are layout, speed, stability, and ride quality. Anything beyond a certain level will be well within the realm of acceptable speed so that is *mostly* negligible. Layout is HUGE though, some items are complete deal breakers while others mean nothing to me, and each buyer is different. Ride quality means a lot for many of us with injuries etc. to cope with rough water, of course any 20'+ boat ought to negate that mostly as well, so it will come down to layout and handling for the large part, and what optional goodies they have for your desires as well. You can always change accessories though, remember to buy the boat not the trinkets

Phoenix no doubt. Pick a rough day and test the phoenix up against the other boats brands.

Ranger hands down...

Thank y'all for the quick responses! I was curious about Skeeter. I have toured their facility in Kilgore and love them, but after seeing so many for sale it made me question their dependability. Billy I may take you up on that offer. Phoenix does seem to be blowing up big time too. Its crazy how many options there are.

You are seeing so many for sale because they have sold so many here in this area. Trust me, I went through the exact same thing about 9 moths ago. Actually had already ruled out Skeeter just based on advice from others....... then I drove one. SOLD. I love my Skeeter. Rides like a dream, handles well, and fishes like the deck of an aircraft carrier; and this being Skeeter country, resale is fantastic. I have fished 3 grown men on it no problem and more than enough room. Absolutely a great boat. But test drive several brands, you may like something else. And don't forget resale value, some other brands will struggle in this category. Just MHO

Frank the Tank, great response man. thank you. Which rig are you running?

Here's a little hint on the number of skeeters for sale on here. This forum is predominantly used by dfw and east Texas folks more than other areas. The owners tournament is here, the factory is here and any weekend on fork will show you that there are just that many more in use around here. I fished in a Phoenix last year and got my skeeter this Feb. Nothing wrong with a Phoenix but I will be looking for another fx when the time comes.

Frank the tank got me while I was typing