OK so after doing some internett search's Bass Catt 1971, Ranger 1968 and Skeeter possibly 1948 or 1967. I appologize Im not hear to argue with the like's of Mark. But in my quest for the right boat for me I came across an article that stated Bass Catt was the first Bas boat manufacturer. Though in trying to find the article I was unable to for now. I will continue to look and forward to you when I find it.
My opinnion on the factory deffects was formed by local fiberglass repair shops. More than one implied or directly stated that they have seen more factory returns from Skeeter than any other brand of bass boats. Also Im only talking about four makes of boats not absolutly every manufaturer because there are a lot of them.( Look at a NADA Book of boat makers)
Quote well said........ Best thing anyone can do is take the time and research all the brands that interest you from as many unbiased sources as possible and buy what fits you and not anyone else. Stats and numbers as well as awards can all be twisted both positively and negatively depending on who's using them.
Being a Ranger owner I say Ranger He owns a Skeeter he says Skeeter. Were biased..

iv'e owned both. Skeeter is faster and dryer. Ranger has better finish if you like to look at something pretty, they have excellent gel coat. ranger handles better at low speed around docks. But to get up and go its hands down skeeter runs the doors off ranger.

Ask those boys prefishing for the tourney at Fork with the 21i why I passed them like they were standing still when they tried to race me...and I had clients in the boat too. HMMM??? They got introduced to the new Z520...