I am currently in the market for my first boat outside of the 10' jon boat I have owned for 20 years. I currently have my selections narrowed down to two choices based on my limited budget (please keep in mind I am not trying to buy your boat). This boat will not only be used for fishing, but, also to take my two young girls tubing. The first boat is a 1992 Cajun fish and ski. It seats six, has bass seats and a trolling motor. 115 Evinrude outboard. The boat seems to be in great condition for its age and is in pretty good condition for being over 20 years old. Its 17'. The second boat is a 1999 Sea-Doo 2000. This boat has a 235 HP inboard, and is 20' long. Would seat 9 and is way more powerful, it also looks to be in much better shape, and has a nicer interior. Both boats dont seem to have any problems and I have driven them both.

My questions for the forum.

Anyone have any experience with jet boats? Are they as reliable as a standard prop outboard engine?
I know the fish and ski would be more practical for fishing, but, 9 times out of 10 I fish by myself. Aside from not having bass seats, I dont see this boat to be a problem to fish from. I have not plans to get into tournaments.

Basically, I am asking the forum for a good reason not to get the jet boat over the fish and ski.

Thanks in advance

Inboards are maintenance intensive and that 235hp will use a lot more fuel. Jet drives like to suck up rocks, gravel and ski ropes.

And are very expensive to fix

Not a big fan of inboard jets, they do some things well, run shallow and no kid is going to stick a foot in a prop, but they do a lot of things not so well, rough water, maneuvering, and backing up aren't fun.

But by no means am I any fan of a travis edition cajun either, plywood transom, bare wood decks and you're way underpowered with that 115.

I'd keep looking. Seriously.

My exact thoughts...Keep looking...

Skeeter, Ranger both make nice fish n' skis. If you can find a Cobra Coral it is really, REALLY a nice boat. Not sure what your price range is but I'd look until I found one of those three. Most of them have quick release trolling motors and stuff so you can quickly go from daddy time to family time. That's where I'd be putting my searching efforts IMHO.

well from a guy who wanted a boat for years and finally got the green light, I got the BOAT I WANTED. I wound up with what most people would call the least family friendly boat you can get (short of Goff's scooter).....guess what, the 5 kids doing cannonballs off the bow have never complained about the lack of seats, or the rough ride. plus low sides make getting in and out alot easier

take your time and get a good one, figure out what you want to do...I don't think I would get either of the boats you mentioned though

Held out a bit longer and found a good boat. A 21' Galaxy 2000 with 260HP, bass seats, fishfinder, and trolling motor.