View Full Version : Why no Alumacrafts
UP_walleye_5
07-30-2006, 01:25 PM
When paging through the photos for the tourneys why is it you never see any Alumacraft boats. You see on this board whenever someone asks help on buying a boat alumacraft is always in the top three as far as metal goes. Also when i'm on the water i see lots of nice alumacraft rigs. Is there a sponsor problem or do the pros just not
like the boat. Just wondering.
And yes i do own an Alumacraft (1999 trophy 185) and i fish baydenoc and lake mich. and have never had a problem with the boat.
Thanks. Steve
UP_walleye_5
07-30-2006, 01:25 PM
When paging through the photos for the tourneys why is it you never see any Alumacraft boats. You see on this board whenever someone asks help on buying a boat alumacraft is always in the top three as far as metal goes. Also when i'm on the water i see lots of nice alumacraft rigs. Is there a sponsor problem or do the pros just not
like the boat. Just wondering.
And yes i do own an Alumacraft (1999 trophy 185) and i fish baydenoc and lake mich. and have never had a problem with the boat.
Thanks. Steve
Lee Brown
07-30-2006, 02:24 PM
I know Tony Puccio rus an alumicraft but he's the only one I know of for sure.
Lee Brown
07-30-2006, 02:24 PM
I know Tony Puccio rus an alumicraft but he's the only one I know of for sure.
Puchio runs a Starcraft, I think. It's the only Starcraft I've seen on the water.
I too own an Alumacraft. One of the best boats I've ever owned. I've often wondered too why no Alumacrafts in the pro events.
Puchio runs a Starcraft, I think. It's the only Starcraft I've seen on the water.
I too own an Alumacraft. One of the best boats I've ever owned. I've often wondered too why no Alumacrafts in the pro events.
Lee Brown
07-30-2006, 02:35 PM
My bad, I think you're right. If it ain't a Skeeter they all look alike.
Lee Brown
07-30-2006, 02:35 PM
My bad, I think you're right. If it ain't a Skeeter they all look alike.
Fastcat
07-30-2006, 05:41 PM
My guess would be no factory support. I know of a guy thinking about going into the "Pro" ranks and he picked his new boat based on what manufacturers are at the tournaments. That and some of the extra awards you receive almost mandate that you run one of the big sponsors boats.
Fastcat
07-30-2006, 05:41 PM
My guess would be no factory support. I know of a guy thinking about going into the "Pro" ranks and he picked his new boat based on what manufacturers are at the tournaments. That and some of the extra awards you receive almost mandate that you run one of the big sponsors boats.
DUDE 2
07-30-2006, 05:46 PM
I tried 6 years ago to get sponsership from Aluacraft, and they said they dont do things like that. They didnt have a big budget to do those things. That is what they said then, not really sure why they dont do it now. I told them then that they were going to be left in the dust if they didnt get into the tournament game, and I dont think they listened to me. I loved my Alumacraft tourny series boat back in the late 90's. They didnt give out any incentives to get in there boat, so I went into a Crestliner instead. Alumacraft as far as I know still doesnt involve themselves in tournament fishing, and it is a shame. Its a great boat, the driest ride I have ever been in on Lake Erie.
DUDE 2
07-30-2006, 05:46 PM
I tried 6 years ago to get sponsership from Aluacraft, and they said they dont do things like that. They didnt have a big budget to do those things. That is what they said then, not really sure why they dont do it now. I told them then that they were going to be left in the dust if they didnt get into the tournament game, and I dont think they listened to me. I loved my Alumacraft tourny series boat back in the late 90's. They didnt give out any incentives to get in there boat, so I went into a Crestliner instead. Alumacraft as far as I know still doesnt involve themselves in tournament fishing, and it is a shame. Its a great boat, the driest ride I have ever been in on Lake Erie.
fastboy
07-31-2006, 12:55 AM
dude2 is correct.tournament boats for some are a small makeup of their boat sales.they cater more towards the majority of us who want an affordable aluminum boat.btw for 07 alumacraft is making some nice improvements on an already nice fishing boat.
fastboy
07-31-2006, 12:55 AM
dude2 is correct.tournament boats for some are a small makeup of their boat sales.they cater more towards the majority of us who want an affordable aluminum boat.btw for 07 alumacraft is making some nice improvements on an already nice fishing boat.
Motorcity
07-31-2006, 01:42 AM
Alumacraft is basically still "family" owned unlike Ranger (who is owned by Genmar) and lund (who is owned by Brunswick). They don't have the $$ stacked up in their marketing dept. Instead, they simply continue to build a fine product and sell boats to their loyal customers.
Motorcity
07-31-2006, 01:42 AM
Alumacraft is basically still "family" owned unlike Ranger (who is owned by Genmar) and lund (who is owned by Brunswick). They don't have the $$ stacked up in their marketing dept. Instead, they simply continue to build a fine product and sell boats to their loyal customers.
I believe their philosophy is to sell to the average joe fisherman. there are a few pro staffers out thre but they are guides or local anglers rather than Professionals.
ChadM
I believe their philosophy is to sell to the average joe fisherman. there are a few pro staffers out thre but they are guides or local anglers rather than Professionals.
ChadM
The Sandman
07-31-2006, 10:15 PM
Doug Iverson, from Pierre, runs an Alumacraft, and was in the Mobridge PWT last week.
oahe walleyes
08-01-2006, 01:26 AM
Alumacraft makes some of the best tin out there they dont have to give them away, people buy them, they have a very loyal following and you can get yamaha, merc, suzuki, they dont force feed the consumer on what motor they need to buy,in the tin market they will be no 1 not too long from know. glad to see a boat company like them left in the industry.
Gary Korsgaden
08-01-2006, 08:54 AM
It helps when the President is a huge tournament supporter like the past President of Lund is.
giveaway
08-01-2006, 08:54 AM
I don't think it's a matter of having to give them away. Lund doesn't have to give them away either. Having a prostaff is good advertising and get's them more exposure. Most boat companies that have a prostaff don't give them away either...they sell them to the pros for a slightly reduced cost. Very few get a free boat, some get a memo bill boat, or buy one at a slight discount so they can wear the shirt. I don't think it would hurt Alumacraft to have a couple pros on thier staff. It isn't very costly for a mfg to have a prostaff. A few shirts, and a couple discounted boats for a couple guys. I run an Alumacraft and am very happy with it. It has held up better than my lund.
Fish_on
08-01-2006, 09:18 AM
It is just a difference in marketing philosophy. Alumacraft does have a pro-staff, just not very many of them fish tournaments. Like the Fishing the Midwest Team for example. They have amarketing budget just like every other boat company, they just spend it a little differently than the rest.
Fish-on,
Your right. I think most of us have been lead to believe that pro staff = tournament angler. That is not necessarily the case especially for Alumacraft. Bob Jensen, Mike Frish, and many, many local guides. I think Tony Dean also does or has driven an Alumacraft. Can't get two better folks to sell a boat to non tournament folks than Tony & Bob. They are both so down to earth, approachable, and non nonsense.
ChadM
Just thought I would add, Alumacraft really does not have a full sized tournament model in their lineup. In the tournament pro model the largest boat is 18'11". Not many fishermen in the Pro/Am tourneys are running 19 foot boats.
I do really like their boats, I especially like how they have put the side compartment door on the top of the gunnel. They have tremendous rod storage, and seem to have a very full list of features installed as standard equipment, lights in livewells, lighted interior for night fishing. The mid range lineup is packed with different models.
I don't think their is anything wrong with the boats they have, there just is not a model, and they don't appear to have an aggressive tournament angler sponsorship program.
blademan
08-01-2006, 01:48 PM
I think the 185 tournament model is plenty big enough for any tournament the pros fish.
I agree. The 185 is plenty big and that is not the reason for guys not using it in tournaments. Many touranment anglers are looking for pro staff deals and that is not where Alumacraft elects to put their pro staff.
ChadM
budsbud66
08-02-2006, 11:04 PM
My humble opinion, Alumacrafts, starcrafts just to name a few. Are more targeted at Recreational fisherman. Both companies make fine boats. however Look at the amount of competion there is in the tournament world for boats.. Save the money, target recreational guys, there are a ton more weekend warriors out there then pro's making a living.
competition
08-03-2006, 08:38 AM
I disagree somewhat. I agree Alumacraft targets and markets to the recreational angler. But believe me...the competition isn't among boat mfg to find a pro to run their boat for the exposure. The competition is with pros looking for a sweet deal on a boat to run every year. Believe me, if I were a pro, and Alumacraft offered me a memo bill deal (use the boat and pay us back at the end of the year below dealer cost) I'd jump on it, and I think many pros who have to buy their boats every year would too.
Bob Jensen
08-03-2006, 10:59 AM
Chad:
Thank you for the kind words, they are appreciated.
Hope all is well.
Best Fishes,
Bob Jensen
Marv Sandbek
08-03-2006, 11:27 AM
Hey, Chad & Fish-On:
I agree fully with your assessment of the Alumacraft marketing philosophy! I was affiliated with Alumacraft for several years and did exactly what you mention . . as a member of Randy Amenrud's "Talkin' Fishin" Promotional Team . . I learned that the focus Alumacraft sought with it's marketing budget was to reach fishing families and recreational anglers first, and then spread the appeal of their product line to the tournament angler; both part-timer and touring pro! I believe Alumacraft recognized "early-on" the scope of their marketplace, both in terms of potential customers and the logisitcs of selling finished goods!
If we were to compare Alumacraft feature-for-feature, and construction-to-construction with their market class competition, I believe it would be very difficult to choose one over the other, if for anything but personal preference. I think what we would find is that dollar-for-dollar, it's tough not to place Alumacraft at the very top of the "Tin Boat Industry!" And maybe the best part of all is, no FORCED MOTOR SELECTION . . . power them any way we wish . . e-Tec, Honda, Yamaha, "Suzy," or, if WE wish, Mercury!
Now, having said that, I'm gonna throw in a pitch for the one person whom I believe is responsible for the advent of the Alumacraft Boat that we know today. About ten years ago, Ken Zimmerman arrived at St. Peter, Minnesota to take the helm at Alumacraft. Ken brought a wealth of experience and talent to the table, and he took charge of a talented and dedicated group of employees who were keenly interested in a paradigm shift and a new vision for the company! The "Old Gray Boat" that was Alumacraft, quickly became a formidable rival to the competition. New graphics packages, creature comforts, tournament calibre livewells and storage compartments and the revolutionary "2XB" hull were just a few of the numerous innovations incorporated into the "NEW" Alumacraft! It was an exciting time to be part of that team, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to showcase Alumacraft products to the consumers in the region.
No matter the reason each of us may have for choosing and purchasing a new boat . . whether for pleasure or competition, or both . . it would be wise counsel to take a close look at Alumacraft. It's true that we won't find a 20 foot tiller, or a 22 foot Great Lakes "Walleye Chaser" among their product offerings, but we also won't find a price tag exceeding $40k. It all depends upon what we need and how much "jingle" we're willing to part with to get it!
Minnesota Marv
Gary Korsgaden
08-06-2006, 08:55 AM
No one could sum this up better then you. I really feel Lunds involvement into strong tournament presence is the result of alot of factors. Al Lindner, Gary Roach and Larry Lavold to name a few. The strength of Lund has been and still is, name recognition, it keeps the resale value one of the highest in the industry. I too like Alumacraft Boats, however boat mfgs have built themselves into a corner with a top quality product that lasts for more years then any "weekend warrior" can put them through if taken care of. I was told by a boat industry person that somewhere around 25% of Rangers business is from the competive angler. I feel it is a marketing strategy and segment of the boat public, at this time Alumacraft stays away from.If and when I send my black Lund down the road I will look long and hard at Alumacraft. First stop would be one the boats Fishing The Midwest has on staff. They are rigged, not abused and the bugs are gone as with any new boat their are these little gremlins that pop up.
Gary Korsgaden
08-06-2006, 08:55 AM
No one could sum this up better then you. I really feel Lunds involvement into strong tournament presence is the result of alot of factors. Al Lindner, Gary Roach and Larry Lavold to name a few. The strength of Lund has been and still is, name recognition, it keeps the resale value one of the highest in the industry. I too like Alumacraft Boats, however boat mfgs have built themselves into a corner with a top quality product that lasts for more years then any "weekend warrior" can put them through if taken care of. I was told by a boat industry person that somewhere around 25% of Rangers business is from the competive angler. I feel it is a marketing strategy and segment of the boat public, at this time Alumacraft stays away from.If and when I send my black Lund down the road I will look long and hard at Alumacraft. First stop would be one the boats Fishing The Midwest has on staff. They are rigged, not abused and the bugs are gone as with any new boat their are these little gremlins that pop up.
Gary Korsgaden
08-06-2006, 08:59 AM
I don't mean to put you on the spot Chad. But I know in your competive tournament travels and President of FM Walleyes you fish in alot of boats. I am curious which ones and why that you find meet your fancy or overall preference. Also would like your opinion on engines too. I know myself fishing with just a few buddies the boats I come in contact with are limited.
Gary Korsgaden
08-06-2006, 08:59 AM
I don't mean to put you on the spot Chad. But I know in your competive tournament travels and President of FM Walleyes you fish in alot of boats. I am curious which ones and why that you find meet your fancy or overall preference. Also would like your opinion on engines too. I know myself fishing with just a few buddies the boats I come in contact with are limited.
Gary,
The past few years I have fished out of an 185 Alumacraft, 1900 Lund, 2025 Lund, 620 Ranger and 621 Ranger. I will tell you that each boat has provided a very nice ride and are put together well. I would not hesitate to buy any of them. Of course the 621 and 2025 being longer provided more work space and a little softer ride in big water but the 185 Tourney Pro was suprisingly soft for its size. For a tiller motor it would be tough to beat the 115 or 140 Suzuki and the Tiller Power Steering is phenominal too. The Suzuki does not have the top end of a Yamaha but it really shines when it comes to the low end. It really fishes well which is the most important part. If you get there first but cant go slow enough whats the point? Although I did not have an opportuity to use any other tillers so my views are a little based. The bigger boats had a Verado which is a pretty awsome motor too. The steer and shift by wire is pretty nice. Other motors I rode with were Yamahas and Evinrudes which I did not get to see or use enough of to comment. I did see a lot of Evinrudes up at the repair trailer. Not sure why or for what.
ChadM