The wife and I took delivery on our new boat today. 2013 Bass Buggy 18 DLX. Not sure why they call a 20ft boat the "18 DLX" but whatever. We got the 60hp FourStroke Bigfoot Mercury and the upgraded trailer with spare and surge brake. We took delivery at the Bass Pro in Garland and crossed the bridge to put in at the free ramp on the Dalrock exit.

It tows beautifully. I was a bit worried about the light tongue weight (i can pick up the front of the trailer with the boat on it with only a bit of effort) but I noticed no sway crossing the bridge. Cruise control at 65mph from Garland back to McKinney later that day and even getting passed by 18 wheelers caused no affect on the steering. I'll have to keep an eye on it when we get some wind but for now I'll leave the bump post where it is.

Putting it in the water it came off the trailer easily and smoothly. I wasn't quite as deep as I should have been ideally but it came off just fine. I credit the prop and gearing somewhat for that. The "BigFoot" designation in the 60hp motor name indicates that the lower end and prop are off the 115hp motor. They also swap the gearing for higher gears. More torque less top end speed.

We spent the next couple hours beginning the engine break-in process. I was kicking myself for not bringing a rod to troll with. But there was literally no wind and the water was almost glassy at times. Great day for just cruising and the occasional mid-lake swim.

I hit the trailer perfectly on the second try. I won't lie to you though there was almost no wind and I was parked in the middle of the two lanes on the ramp. Only took one crank on the winch and the boat was snug against the bump post.

All in all it was a great first day on the water.

P.S. Next year's signature will look drastically different from this year's.

nice

I could sense your excitement but a picture would have us all feeling it with you. Congratulations on your boat and don't forget the rods next time. Did you think about buying a new rod before or after you left Bass Pro.