Since I sold my boat a few weeks ago, I am officially boatless bank trash and have a chunk burning a hole in my pocket. I have the luxury of buying "pretty" much what I want, however I am not spending 90K+. I thought I wanted a newish Skeeter but not sure I am in love with their quality control. I am hearing a new Phoenix 721 XL is coming out which has peaked my interest. Any of you all have experience with Phoenix and Skeeter? If so, let’s hear your un-filtered, non-sponsored opinion of each brand? The latest Skeeter I looked at, I was not impressed with the QC. I do have garage space limitations, but think a FXR/ZXR 20, 721/920 would work.

I’ve had my Phoenix 920 Pro XP for 3 years now. Was 4 years old with only 140 hours on it at the time. No complaints so far. As far as comparing to Skeeter I wouldn’t say it’s better or worse and I’m not a fanboy of any particular brand. Will say though Skeeter would be far down the list if I ever purchase another boat.

From experience with buddies of mines boats I will put the Phoenix quality above skeeter as well although both boats are great performance. Basscat also just announced the Basscat cougar SP for 80k fully rigged out as well and basscat has a pretty good reputation for QC and customer service

I saw that BC deal, just not a fan of how narrow the deck is.

Is a Caymas out?

I would look at a used Caymus as well. They ride awesome and handle big water really well. There’s a great looking 19.9 on sale now on the forum for 56 but I think you want one bigger.

Good luck

https://texasfishingforum.com/forum...-stroke-excellent-condition#Post15113008

Lots of rumors of Caymas going away, who knows… 🤷‍♂️

That Basscat SP doesn’t have a narrow deck. If you haven’t seen the pics then you need to

80k, what's another 10k? Get what you want and make yourself happy. Don't regret anything.

I own a Skeeter, as do many of my friends. ZX’s, FX’s, ZXR 20’s (a few different years). Every one of them has or had issues with them. My skeeter has its day too.

I would seriously look at the Phoenix, but I’d also take a long look at Caymus. I have friends with BassCats, they have very few issues, but GD they are the ugliest things on the water. …..and ya have to look at it to use it.

If I were in the market, it would be in this order:

1) Skeeter
2) Phoenix
3) Ranger

I currently own a Ranger and learned some things while owning it. Your not going to be speed demon in a Ranger. You're also driving a Cadillac and not Corvette. Phoenix and Skeeter have a very wide following / offering / dealerships out this way. Skeeter just seems to have an eye on the anglers needs more without all the fancy.

Yes it does.

I wasn’t a fan of all the carpet glue spewed everywhere on the 2024 FXR I looked at, plus it was a dog only running high 60s.

My ZX225 was better all around on performance out of the hole and top end than a 24 FXR 20.

If you want to spend the full 80 I’d get one of the close out 521r on sale at pros choice