Thanks for all the replies. I should have said before that I'm dealing with a pretty strict budget, less than $20k. So that limits me as far as fiberglass deep v Skeeters and Rangers. Center consoles don't offer as much seating as I think I'm going to need. To get a boat new enough to be relatively reliable and big enough is becoming a challenge.

Skippy...welcone to the neighborhood. As the other guys pointed out, this lake can get rough fast I would stay in the 20 foot range. Depending on the day, you can fish out of almost anything and living here gives you the choice to stay or go. IMHO the issue is the skiing and tubing. I just taught my fourth grandson and his buddy to ski a couple of weekends ago. I like having room on the deck for tubes, skis, ropes. A good ladder that makes it easy to get in and out is imperitive. A good platform up front allows you to move the other riders up front for a better hole shot to get the skier up. I'm hoping my next boat will be a 210 Dauntless Boston Whaler.

Thanks for the info. Most the boats I'm looking at do have a "deck" in the back (fish and ski types) for just that reason. It's good to hear that I'm on the right track as far as that goes.

Here's another question... I don't prefer the "bass boats". Never loved the way they look but more importantly, they don't typically seat enough people for my needs. However, I've stumbled across a couple of boats that seem to fit my needs but aren't full on "deep v" like the Ranger Reatta and Skeeter SL. They have the windshield that I want as well as plenty of seating both front and back. But they aren't deep v. Can anyone speak to how this type of boat would do in rough water? I can afford a longer boat (19'-20') like this but fear it'll be rougher than a shorter deep v aluminum. Any input? Thanks again.

Compare length, weight, and dead rise at transom and you will have your answer about rough water performance. Any time you compromise and try to get a boat for dual purpose, there will be things you don't like when doing both things you are trying to do.

I fished out of a 1997 Champion 202 for 14 years in open water on Twok, Texoma, PK, Bridgeport and other lakes. I had no real problems in rough water doing so. There were times when you got really wet, had water come over the front. With that being said, yes, you can get by without a deep- V. Keep in mind that when the boat is sitting still, those deep V aluminum boats rock around a lot when you are walking around on it. That may or may not be a factor for you.

I own a 20ft Stratos bass boat and store it on Tawokoni.
I primarily bass fish, but I still do venture deep and all around the lake. It is true what they say, it gets rough extremely quick. Something about the way it's situated for the north/south winds, it will gust hard out of nowhere and the whitecaps will come out with it.

That being said, I say as large as you can get. It will affect how much you get blown around, and how long it takes you to cross the lake with in choppy conditions.

tawkioni is dangerous when the wind is hi

Lots of good input for you here. I'm sure this does not apply to the guys that are on the water a lot but I see a number of folks that simply do not know how to handle a boat, v hull or otherwise, in the wind. IMHO knowing how to attack the head winds and surf the tail wind is an art form all its own and can save your life.

Absolute wisdom right there, if you don't know how to approach high waves in to and from behind a 30ft'er won't help. Talk to some of the guides on the lake, they can tell you how to manage rough seas. It could save your life.

I witnessed Tawakoni go from glass to oh my lord lol. With in 5 min there was 2.5-3' waves. Made for a stressful ride from the humps back to anchor where I had the truck. I'm thankful I was alone and did not have the family.

I was in an 18.5' aluminum bass boat.

Today I've got a Nautic Star 2110 hooked up to the truck and ready to get blood on the deck lol.

lucas you made a wise decision, most CC owners are ex other styles including myself and never go back, I know I will not.

I wish I had just got a CC the 1st time out and been done with it. There are some really good used ones out there ready to go just have to look, they are well in your range plus if you ever wish to sell the CC will move very quick.

Big, heavy, and deep V are the three things I would want if I was buying a boat for Tawakoni. I run a 21' Robalo that is heavier than anything else I have looked at.

Sea Ark
EASY SERIES: EASY 200
The Easy models are one of the most popular among the SeaArk Family. These models combine family fun and fishing! They continue to offer the toughness while featuring options that allow you to fish, ski, or spend a lazy day on the lake. Both models feature large livewells, lots of storage including rod storage, lounge seats, a removeable table, and large fishing decks. The 15� V-Hull gives you the smooth ride in heavy chop to ensure a comfortable day on the lake.

SPECS
Length 20 ft 1 in
Beam 95 in
Bottom 72 in
Side Depth 26 in
Transom Height 25 in
Boat Weight 1550 lbs
Weight Capacity 2000 lbs
Persons Cap 8/1100
.125 Gauge Aluminum
Max HP 175

I agree with tin man 55 I have a 19' alum. Triton and I will not go out if the wind is over 15mph..

We come down to fish Tawakini about once a year. I have a 20' 72" Wareagle but we have to fish where the wind will let us fish. We had a buddy sink a 24' Seaark trying to come around 2 mile bridge to get back to thd ramp.

From what I have seen you need a BIG fiberglass for that lake. Ask and see what the guides are using. What they are depending on to get themselves and clients in and back every day is what you need.