Hey y’all. I know this is probably a very vague heading and will stir up a big debate, so I’ll try to describe what I’m looking for. Hopefully after describing it I can get some ■■■■■■■■ as to what the “best” boat for that would be.
Currently I have a Pioneer Bay Sport(17’5") with a Johnson 90(2 stroke). The boat runs great, I fish a lot inshore as well as the at the jetties in it. Have gone out to the 11th set of cans on a calm day. I’m thinking about upgrading to a 20’6" and want it to be equipped with a 4 stroke. This is where my lack of knowledge comes into play. I know I see a lot of Scout, Grady White, Sea Hunt etc on the water, but I’m curious if I can get some honest ■■■■■■■■ as to what the better boats would be. I know budget comes into play but I’m looking to spend around $25k. The boat will mostly be used for fishing but still want to occasionally take the girlfriend and her friends out for cruising/sand bar relaxing.
I appreciate any and all responses. Thank you!
2007 Pioneer 17’5 Baysport
2012 Malibu Stealth 12 Kayak
“If people concentrated on the really important things in life, there would be a shortage of fishing poles”
Phin, thank you for the link. I love my Pioneer. Has been a great boat. Have looked at the 19’7" and been impressed. Just wasn’t sure if they were a pretty good brand or not
2007 Pioneer 17’5 Baysport
2012 Malibu Stealth 12 Kayak
“If people concentrated on the really important things in life, there would be a shortage of fishing poles”
I own the 197. Please pm me if you have any questions about it. The boat is solid like a rock and fishes like a much bigger boat. When I’m not fishing offshore in it, I put the cushions in it as well as a grill, load up my wife and 2 kids, and go cruising and exploring for the day. The boat is super efficient on the wallet as well, not to mention the customer service. Really, before you buy another brand, please ride in one and talk to Roy at Pioneer. I’ll even be willing to take you with me if needed. Really, it’s the only choice in my opinion.
Got2Go, I appreciate the insight. I own the smaller version of your boat and have been more than satisfied with it. I’ve always liked the design of the Pioneer and really looked at the 19’7 but had a friend tell me Pioneer isn’t a good boat, that it’s cheap. I actually went to Pioneer and hung out with Roy because I had a t-top installed. He gave me a tour of the facility and was very friendly.
2007 Pioneer 17’5 Baysport
2012 Malibu Stealth 12 Kayak
“If people concentrated on the really important things in life, there would be a shortage of fishing poles”
quote: but had a friend tell me Pioneer isn't a good boat, that it's cheap
I’ve got no dog in this fight, I build custom boats one at a time and not for Pioneer. Your friend is wrong. There aren’t many better production boats.
Capt. Larry Teuton
912-six55-5674
lteuton at aol dot com
“Ships are the nearest things to dreams that hands have ever made.” -Robert N. Rose
Cracker, I really appreciate it. Makes me feel good about my current boat and maybe I’ll stick to them for an upgrade. I’ve been more than pleased with my experience thus far
2007 Pioneer 17’5 Baysport
2012 Malibu Stealth 12 Kayak
“If people concentrated on the really important things in life, there would be a shortage of fishing poles”
What Cracker and Got2Go said. I have the Pioneer 222 Sportfish and it is a beast!
Pioneer 222 Sportfish
Yamaha 250
X2
Mark
Pioneer 222 Sportfish Yamaha F300
Yeah, but do you consider a dog to be a filthy animal? I wouldn’t go so far as to call a dog filthy but they’re definitely dirty. But, a dog’s got personality. Personality goes a long way.
“Life’s tough…It’s even tougher if you’re stupid” John Wayne
Also guys, if I’m going to upgrade, what would you think a fair asking price for my boat would be? 17’5" Pioneer Baysport with CE Smith stainless t-top(installed by Pioneer), 90 Johnson 2-stroke, front and rear spreader lights, dual batteries with switch, tackle storage center in center console, fusion stereo with clarion speakers, swim platform, full custom t-top cover, all aluminum trailer with new wiring, lights, pipe lights and trailer tires.
2007 Pioneer 17’5 Baysport
2012 Malibu Stealth 12 Kayak
“If people concentrated on the really important things in life, there would be a shortage of fishing poles”
Cltdeerhunter, all the responses in favor of Pioneer have been overwhelming. I found a 197 I really want so I have listed my boat to see what happens. I love my Pioneer and am happy to stick with the brand. Any ideas on what I could get from a 2007 175 with t-top and other accessories as listed?
2007 Pioneer 17’5 Baysport
2012 Malibu Stealth 12 Kayak
“If people concentrated on the really important things in life, there would be a shortage of fishing poles”