First point: As long as it’s 100% composite (most since 2000) and has a reliable motor I think an older boat is great, should last a long time. Easy to update TM and electronics to keep up with the times.
Second point: With global warming, oh sorry we don’t call it that anymore especially after the latest polar vortex , with climate change and the world ending in 10-12 years who wants to waste money on a new boat.
Third point: Is anybody working to develop an all electric outboard motor? Just saying.
2009 Triton 18XS bought in 2011 and paid for in 2 years. Still fits fine for me although I'd love a couple more feet of length for other fishermen in the boat.
Had a 1997 Cobra I kept for 12 years. Sold it and ordered a Z521 Ranger in summer 2012 so going on nine years. I do have the itch for a new rig though.
2000 Cobra 201d 225 Mercury 225 efi. Bought new for 25000. Still looks new. Original everything still on boat , same carpet. Wouldnt trade if i could. Have had people wanting to buy it few times but not for sale
First point: As long as it’s 100% composite (most since 2000) and has a reliable motor I think an older boat is great, should last a long time. Easy to update TM and electronics to keep up with the times.
Second point: With global warming, oh sorry we don’t call it that anymore especially after the latest polar vortex , with climate change and the world ending in 10-12 years who wants to waste money on a new boat.
Third point: Is anybody working to develop an all electric outboard motor? Just saying.
They've developed the electric main motor - but cord storage is a problem.
Currently fishing out of a 94 Ranger 364v with a 2008 Etec 150. Just upgraded all the electronics, added Ultrex, Livescope and added hydraulic steering. My only wishes are that it had a full casting deck (i can always add that), that it was a bit longer and had better tackle storage. The last is the only real reason i would consider upgrading. It runs about 60 which is plenty for me.
Last edited by SoonerDG; 03/05/2109:37 PM.
"Life is a matter of luck and the odds of success are in no way enhanced by extreme caution." - Erich Topp, German U-boat Commander, 1943.
I bough this "Deck Boat" new in 1995(26 years) . I replaced all of the bearings this week for the first time. I have had to replace the stator and that is all as far as repairs go.
1980 Ebbtide Dyna-Trak 166SS; 1980 Mercury ELPT 140HP. We moved 3 times so built 3 car 25'+ deep garages for boat with each move. Before each move, my wife asked if we could built a house for wife & 4 kids at same time building garages. I replied "SURE" which explains why we have been married ~42 years and counting. I still have same boat and SAME wife!! Boat runs great and in great condition!! People ask if I will get new boat and I reply "I will have to get new wife before new boat!!!" [i][/i][u][/u]
I am not the original owner but my boat is 20 years old. The previous owner replaced the original trailer. This one is a 2006. Other than some lower units, I have only had to rebuild the fuel pump. I have put a new trolling motor, windshields, a few helm instruments, Am/FM/satellite radio, steering helm and GPS/Fish finders on it. I put the power pole on it.