aluma craft 180 vs sportfish 1850 any opionions

[aprowl]

got it narrowed down to these two boats any advice would be much appreiciated

[Brickhouse]

I have an almost brand new 2003 Lund 1800 Fisherman for sale in the Minnesota boat classifieds if you are interested. You can save a lot of cash over new. Good luck with your purchase.

[stumcfar]

I can't compare, because I have never fished in the Alumacraft. I am in my 3rd year with a 1850 Sportfish. So far, no complaints. It has been a great boat for fishing and it is big enough for my family to enjoy. On rough days, you are going to get wet, but you will in every aluminum boat and any one that tells you different is full of it. Good luck on your decision, I am sure you will be happy with either.

[riv]

What motor are you running and what is your top speed when you are loaded, ie. trolling motor, three batteries, fishing gear and two guys?

[stumcfar]

I have a Mercury 125 2 stroke. The motor has been great, but the boat could easily have a bigger motor. Loaded with 2 guys, probably 35 -38 mph. I am sure a 150 would make it hum. I don't really have a need for the speed, but a lot of guys on this board are speed freaks and they would be disappointed with my set up.

[Das Boot 3]

I'm in my second year with a 1850 Sportfish. I have no complaints with mine and the only problems I have ever had have been with my poor choice of trailer.
I have a 175 Evinrude Ficht and was out yesterday with 3 guys, 3 batteries, trolling motor, full gear, and full bow livewell - 52mph at 5700 RPM. Oh yea, the livewell also had 11 walleyes in it for ballast :)
DB3

[WestCoaster]

My fourth year in a Sportfish 1850 I/O. Really is a multi purpose boat. I am impressed with the utility and reliability of the I/O configuration. I've always owned outboards before. My 205 hp V-6 virtually sips fuel considering the weight and power. Speed is good at 50+ mph (varies with conditions). Sometimes shows 61 mph on the speedo, but GPS corrected is no faster than 56 mph down current, and down wind. Fishes wonderfully with remote controlled 15 hp 4 stroke kicker and pair of downriggers. Livewells are spacious enough for salmon and stripers that I've caught. Family can ski or tube with ease also. My friend has an Alumacraft that he loves. Have your dealers take you out in them and make your assessment once you have an opportunity to feel their on-the-water manners. Good luck!

[fishnuttttt]

The 2XB Hull is a much more comfortable ride in larger waves than the Crestliner Sportfish. I recently made the swirch from Crestliner to Alumacraft and am much happier.