thinking about buying a used one to use on the lakes. 16.8 foot with a 25 horse. Looking for opinions.

The only experience that I have had in one showed that it did not handle rough water well at all. Beat you half to death bouncing off waves. Was roomy and easy to fish out of once you got to where you needed to be.

I have a Carolina skiff 16.8 foot JVX. It's a lot of boat for the length. I've been in some pretty good size waves here on the coast, and yes it is rough, but at the same time, very stable. Never felt unsafe at all. I really enjoy it. And have no regrets. I have a 60hp etec on mine. I can get up to 38mph.

I have a 17 with a 50 hp which I have had for 12 years. I have used that boat from the Everglades to Arkansas in fresh and salt water. It is rough riding in high winds on the bay and you will get wet. But it is solid as a rock and a great fishing platform. I also bought a Mako LTS but still take the skiff more days. It great for rivers and lakes, easy to clean and maintain. You just have to use some judgement when the wind is blowing.

Good Luck and Tight Lines.

http://fishcatchingtravel.com/

I rented one to see if I would like it. It was a very rough ride. Also a wet ride as well. Worked well just ruined a day when it was cool out the kids wanted to go home when they got wet. On a hot day getting wet was fun for them. Good luck on your decision..

Negative: Rough, Wet, and slow.
Positive: KISS method boat. Easy to clean, tons of room for the length, see lots old ones still on the water.

Pretty much what they all said. Rough as hell and wet. But stable and strong