Deciding between 2 boats

[chris16371]

First one I'm considering is a 2015 Tracker 1754SC with 60/40 Merc 4 Stoke Jet, I've already been told this is underpowered but is at a dealer so I can upgrade the motor.

Second is a 2014 Xplorer XP180 Tunnel jet with a 90/65 Yamaha. This is a private seller so an upgraded motor really isn't an option.

Which boat would I be more happy with? The Tracker is under warranty still, not sure on Xplorer Warranty. It would be used for fishing and cruising on Allegheny River/Reservoir. Would like to see speeds of 30+ mph.

 

[chris16371]

I'm not sure how to edit my post but is the Xplorer wood free like the Tracker?

 

[ahicks]

May I ask why you would want a jet (as compared to a prop)?

 

[chris16371]

Allegheny River in Warren County, PA. It shallows up pretty good in spots to 6-8" of water, even less in some spots and I will take river fishing over reservoir fishing any day.

 

[roscoe]

Explorer XP180 for sure, hands down, without a doubt.

 

[chris16371]

I was thinking the Xplorer also, longer and only has 10hrs on boat and motor for the same price as the Tracker. I've read good things about the Xplorer also. What speeds can I expect from this Tunnel Jet boat with the Yamaha 90/65?

 

[5150abf]

having been through multiple lowers from skinny water, I think I just blew up my 4th, the jet is the way to go.

nothing against Tracker but they are an entry level boat, can't say I have ever heard of Xplorer but then again I work for a boat company few have heard of and our boats a perfect.

Just started production in January.

 

[JimS123]

Pardon me, but with 6" of water (even less) and a 30 mph requirement, I would find another waterway, or fish off the shore.

One time when I was young and foolish I broke my boat in skinny water and the girlfriend that was with me refused to ever go out again.

Nothing worse than having a catastrophe only to find out nobody there to help you.

 

[roscoe]

Yeah, hitting a gravel bar, even with a jet, can be catastrophic, and painful when your face hits the dash.

 

[chris16371]

I have a great grandfather that has been boating the river, reservoir, and great lakes since he was 9 so he's going to show me the "ropes" of the river. Actually he helped build the Kinzua Dam. The 30+ speed isn't really a requirement, I'll be using the boat on the reservoir now and again and where I/we like to launch is a little ways from where we like to fish so would like to get there quicker, not necessary though.