what are the advantages and disadvantages to a boat with the controls forward ?

these would be 14 to 18 ft fishing boats of aluminum or fiberglas.

I have always liked stick steering in small lakes, but they have drawbacks. You are limited to, I believe, 70 hp and I think that is pushing it. Torque steer will wear you out. Sitting up in the front of the boat will beat you to death and get you wet. They are great, though, if you fish a lot alone.

In the old days there were 2 types of steering Morse and Teleflex. Torque wasn't that bad(not close to todays standards). I did drive an old Skeeter with cable steering and torque was horrible.Great for fishing in stumps and tight spaces.Put in many hours on Toledo, Tawakoni,Ray Hubbard,Murval and other lakes with stumps and you couldn't beat how well you could manuver in tight spaces. Great option for alot of opportunity to get to tough spots.

I loved my old 14 1/2 foot Terry Bass with a 50 Johnson and stick steering. 'Taught both of my kids to ski with that little rig. And talk about maneuvering among cypress trees....wow....it was great !

Dont think I'd want one with anything larger than a 50 on it though. In fact, as I recall, dealers in Louisiana arent allowed to install more than a 40 on them now...if I'm correct.

If memory serves me correst, Today's stick steering system is only rated for 40hp. On the positive side. Quick "lock to lock" steering. No "in the way" console. Better control, than having to set sideways to use a tiller steer motor. Being that most was located in the front of the boat. It made it easier to tye off to trees and brush. Disadvantages: Since you are on the nose of the boat, the ride is,,,,,well, let's say you need a jockey strap. Those style of boats do not like to go over a wave but instead thru a wave. getting you soaked. Also since the weight is forward, they were nicknamed "BOMBER" bass boats. I thing Bomber speaks for itself.
But in yesteryear, they made great guides boats. Long, Narrow, easy to manover. Easy to accodumated a customer on a crappie fishing trip.

My first Bass Boat was a stick steer, 1973 16ft Falcon w/ 60hp Johnson. I really liked to just stop, put your trolling motor in and start fishing. You had to turn the fishing chair 180 going toward the back because their was`nt much room and you could end up in the lake. Hit a stump w/lower at PK in it and still do`nt know how I did`nt go in the lake. Yes you get wet anywhere in the boat.

70hp max.

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