We saw a 17' Tracker model today, which on the surface seemed quite suitable and attractive. But on further dissection, I think they cheaped-out on a few obvious things and it got us wondering what unseen stuff had corners cut. So I don't think it's a serious contender. Still, sitting up there in the nice, roomy boat, daydreaming about soft water and casting....whew! Got me going a little crazy. We went to the Fish'g Dept. afterwards and bought Tyler a nice little everyday rod right afterwards.
Please keep those thoughts coming on all facets of boat ownership -- even the poor experiences, as these can be a good heads up for us.
With regard to Crestliners, we just loved ours, though we spent the 1st couple of years grossly underpowered (big ooops there). It has really suited us well, but we are outgrowing it -- Shane is casting all on his own now, and let's say that's a bit unpredictable...good to have a little space in between folks, you know?! And I think at my age I deserve a console vs. a tiller. It's very hard for someone my size to pull up those big engines -- I literally have to brace my legs against the back of the boat and pull with all my body weight.
It ain't pretty. W.
)