Just got registered on these boards but have been lurking for quite a while. My experience with inshore/offshore fishing is limited at best, having only been a couple dozen times. I fish a bit more freshwater, but I’ve never had my own boat… until now. I just want to see what the general consensus is for inshore fishing with it.
It’s a '96 Bass Tracker Pro 17 with a 90hp V4 Johnson Seahorse.
I know these boats are designed for freshwater and not choppy seas. However, I think it should do OK… I plan on launching out of Steamboat and maybe hitting the Dawhoo also. The house we’re renting is near the state park, so Big Bay Creek is also in the plans.
We’re coming down the week prior to the 4th and I plan on spending quite a bit of time fishing if ya’ll think this boat will do OK.
If ya’ll think I’m a complete idiot, feel free to tell me LOL
That’s what I was guessing. Last time I was out (over 2+ years ago) a buddy of mine had an old 17ft skiff. We went as far as the 40 hole, but we were lucky enough to have VERY calm waters… even with my limited knowledge, I felt that was a stupid idea.
Anyhoo, I’ve never been to Dawhoo or Big Bay Creek… are either/both of those passable for my boat? Been out of Steamboat several times and I think if we stick closer to the shores we should be safe.
I have no problems tucking tail and heading for the docks… I’m not gonna let my pride get in the way of my safety!
I see bass boats in the creeks. Rangers, Champions, and the like. You will be just fine. Be sure to develop the habit of freshwater rinse for everything every time. That salt water will corrode the guts of your motor, the trailer, and anything it wishes in your boat.
If you have a bow mounted trolling motor you will want to rinse the heck out of it also. Same for your fishing gear.
I regularly fish inshore from a 13’ Whaler. I have to avoid the long reaches on the Cooper, Wando, and the main harbor when there are whitecaps. It’s rough and very wet in those conditions. Container ships and big sporties make for large wakes that could come over your bow. Especially if you venture out to the jetties.
On the calmer days (never these days) you can and should go wherever you wish.
Lots of 17’ boats out there and your boat is fine.
dssmith, thanks for the confidence boost! I’m always safe on my outings, but for some reason saltwater excusrions (even inshore) get me a little jittery… guess it’s the lack of experience.
I’ve got absolutely NO problem wearing out the hose at the rental house. I’ll make sure to rinse everything out real good.
Don’t fool around in tidal waters without the following…
Anchor with line, hand held vhf, paddle.
If your motor dies, and you can’t get it started, and you find yourself in a shipping channel with a container ship or tug bearing down on you you will quickly understand why.