I switched from a 17’ McKee center console to a SeaArk approx. 1 1/2 years ago. I got the bass boat version with a Suzuki 115. It is basically the 1860 with raised front and rear casting decks. It is the 15 degree hull. I moved to Charlotte and have been fishing more freshwater. The boat has the spray in liner and I do take it in saltwater without worries. I have fished quite a bit with it, approx. 225 hours. I can say the ride is not as good in a heavy chop but it is not as bad as I thought it would be. The SeaArk is not built very refined. Little things like the rod locker holding water, seat stitching coming apart and hatch lids coming loose were disappointing. I bought the boat expecting it to be tough and I expect the hull will last a very long time. I got a good deal on it and believe I got what I paid for if not more. I do not regret the purchase nor would I would not hesitate buying an aluminum again. I did compare it to the xpress boats which looked good. I did not look at the Rangers but would not hesitate on them either. I am sure some of the others mentioned are also good. Make sure the trailer is aluminum or galvanized for the saltwater. The spray in liner is also a good choice. Good luck and enjoy whatever you get.
Feel free to send a PM cause I do not get to sit down on the computer very often.
Good call, Gee. The attention to the trailer is definitely something that shouldn’t be overlooked. The main reason I went with Xpress was before I had a boat, I always fished with my buddy and he has an Xpress. Then, as I started looking at them, I realized all of the “extras” the offered for the boat AND the trailer. Their “saltwater trailer package” was a big selling point for me. Granted, I spend a little more time in freshwater but I know if the trailer is designed to stand up to saltwater, then freshwater wouldn’t be a problem. That said, my first stop after ever trip to the salt is the car wash. I give it a good 10-15 minutes of soap scrub and rinsing. Going the extra mile on your part will only help prolong the life of the boat and the trailer. I totally understand staying within a budget, but get exactly what you want. Otherwise, every time you hit the water, you’ll be talking about “I wish I would’ve…” or “I wish I had…”.
No matter how much it hurts, how dark it gets, or how far you fall…you are never out of the fight.
Thanks for all the input, definitely going to enjoy the shopping on this.