First off, I have to say that I've been lurking here for some time,and learned a ton, there is a great wealth of knowledge on these forums.

So I have a question.........Living in Wisconsin, right on the mighty Mississippi River is as far "offshore" as I get to go. I currently have an runabout, for running the river, and in the next couple years plan on moving up to a powerboat. With that being said, I would like some input/ideas from people here. I am looking for something in the 19 - 26ft. range, single engine I/O.

Cuddy, or open bow would both work. What are some opinions on a good boat for the river mainly, with the possibility some great lakes use?

Thanks in advance!

Mike

I realize this will start another debate in this thread but...

I think you would find, based on your info, the Baja Outlaw (Cuddie) or Islander (Open Bow) a great option. The 25-26 Outlaw is a very popular boat that I have never heard a bad thing about. Infact we owned a 272 Performance that was basically a very similar boat but with swim platform molded in instead of bolted on.

Otherwise I think a Crownline is also a great option and since I boat on the Mississippi river as well I know you can find some great examples of both there.

My 2 cents

I'd say the answer to your question for the "best" river powerboat is the same as the answer to this poll: http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/g...50-60-mph.html

I bought my Formula 260SS for use in the Hudson River and lake use. After much research and looking, there was not one other boat that was towable and had better floorplan, ergonomics, quality parts, features, and just downright excellent handling and ride. When a friend first looked the boat over he said he had only one word to describe the boat: "Exquisite". I think that sums it up.

What is your budget? Any particular brands or style of boat you favor? Speed goal? I'd say if it is a "true" deep vee powerboat you are looking for, forget anything below 24'. Baja Performance 272, 275 or 278. Outlaw 25 and 26. Fountain 29 (really 26') Formula Fastech 27'. Sunsation, Checkmate, Scarab, the list is looooong. You need to go and kick some tires and see what you like. Personally I don't care much for bowriders. If you are on a limited budget, you will have a hard time finding a boat that will beat the Baja Performance series in terms of comfort and performance capabillities. When it's not a super hot day, you'll love abillity to sit down behind the windshield.

I would say budget is $30K max..........I do wish to have a windshield that i could tuck behind at times. I am also leaning more towards a closed bow boat. I would prefer something that can run 60+ MPH.

A Baja 272 would work well for you and will about 60mph with a stock mag engine.

Any boat with topless girls on it or nearby.

You could make an offer on this one. Will run low 60's and mid 60's if dialed in with a labbed M+ prop.

http://www.offshoreonly.com/classifi...o42012-en.html

Any idea what the weight, of the baja 272 is?? Any trouble pulling one with a F150? It is lifted slightly, with helper airbags in the rear.

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