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BASS |
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TOURNAMENT |
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WALLEYE |
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FAMILY |
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MULTI-SPECIES |
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WATERSKIING |
| MATCHMAKING:
Sure, you can fish for just about anything from
most boats, but manufacturers do have specific functions
in mind for their various designs—as illustrated
in the above icons. To help you find the boat that
best suits your needs, look for these icons in the
pages ahead. |
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It wasn’t
so long ago that a fishing boat’s main function was to
keep your feet from getting wet. Today’s boats, however,
have been designed specifically with sportfishing techniques
in mind, and they’re taking anglers farther and faster
than ever before. Whether they’re decked out with a massive
V6 outboard, spacious livewell, luxurious carpeting or metal-flake
paint, modern fishing boats offer features your grandfather
could never have fathomed. If you’re in the market for
a new ride, the choices have never been better. Or broader.
To help you wade through the options, here with is our sneak
preview of the top new models on the water for 2004.
ALUMINUM BOATS
Crestliner Tournament Series 202
With input
from top walleye fishing pros, Crestliner has completely redesigned
its popular Tournament Series 202 for 2004. The most notable
changes to the 20' 2" boat are in the bow, where the nose
section has been extended to create room for a new baitwell
and accessory bin. The rod locker has also been redesigned and
now has individual tubes to protect the rods and prevent tangles.
As well, the 2004 model offers a new, extruded deck gunwale.
This not only makes for more strength and consistency, it incorporates
a built-in wire channel and an integrated travel-cover slot
that eliminates the need for snaps. Other standard features
on the Tournament Series 202 are aft and bow trolling-motor
outlets, rod savers, a stereo, Concept DX fishing chairs, and
fore and aft casting decks.
The
202 sports Crestliner’s Tru-V, 17-degree Uni-weld hull
design and Quick-Shot transom for increased hole-shot performance
and a smooth, dry ride (the Crestliner Tournament Series 192,
introduced in 2003, has received the same bow redesign). Tournament
anglers will really appreciate the huge 37-gallon livewell and
60-gallon fuel tank. Learn more: (320) 616-5600; www.crestliner.com
Legend V-188 All Sport
Legend, one
of Canada’s top boat manufacturers, has completely redesigned
its popular V-188 All Sport for 2004. This 18' 8" aluminum
deep-V is taking a run at the lucrative fish-and-ski market
in Canada with features such as a removable bow casting platform
that allows you to turn the V-188 into a true bow rider for
weekends with the family. It also sports Legend’s new
E-Z Flip Extenda-Deck Converta-Bench in the aft, which lets
you choose between a rear casting deck or a lounge seat that
can accommodate up to four people. The V-188 also provides loads
of storage, including very practical rod lockers in both gunwales.
Legend boats come completely pre-rigged
and offer a number of motor choices. The V-188 comes standard
(and underpowered in my opinion) with a 60-horsepower outboard,
but it can handle up to 150 horses. You can also customize your
rig with a bevy of options, from electric trolling motors and
downriggers to a safety kit, travel cover and transom-saver.
The V-188 is constructed from hefty .100-gauge aluminum and
has a unique V-hull with an extra-wide bottom and reverse chines
that deliver a comfortable, dry ride. Learn more: 1-800-461-4050;
www.legendboats.com
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