New Boat Selection

[Sanchez]

I've been looking at several boats for almost a year now. Have got it narrowed down to a Crestliner TS 202 and an Alumacraft 195 Tournament Sport. Just wondering if there as anyone who can offer some insight on pros and cons of each, and any good/bad experiences?

[walleyejim1216]

hAD A 2005 TS202 and loved it! Very fishable and great all around boat! I know nothing about the other one!

[Perch Slayer]

Currently run a Tournament Sport 195 double bubble and have owned Alumacrafts for 12 years now. Been in Crestliners and they are good boats as well, but for me I discovered much more bang for the buck with the Alumacrafts. That's been my take/opinion over the years and have also had as good a dealer and manufacturer relationship as anyone could hope for over the years as well which admittedly has also played a significant factor into my overall product satisifaction. Good luck with your choice!

[eyeguy1]

I think either boat would make a good choice. As always, it comes down to personal preference on layout/features. I currently own a 202 and have also checked out the Tournament Sport 195 (I've fished out of a 185 many times). Overall, the extra beam and narrower gunnels on the 202 makes it feel like a much larger boat to me. If you've been in both, you probably know what I'm talking about.

If you prefer a larger casting deck (like I do), the 202 is a great platform. The casting decks on the 185 and 195 were too small for my preference. However, many people prefer to have the room behind the consoles and would then appreciate the Tournament Sport's layout.

I think fit/finish is pretty close b/t the two, plus/minus on both sides. Consoles are nicer in the Alumacraft, seats are nicer in the 202, etc. Again, personal preference.

If speed is any concern, the 202's extra 50 HP capacity will bring obvious results (and added expense).

In the ride dept, while I haven't been in a 195 on the water, I feel pretty confident giving the 202 the nod. I've spent plenty of time in a 185 in rough water and, unless the 195 is MUCH smoother than a 185, the 202 is in a completely different ballpark. Staying dry is another story. The 185 I've spent time in is considerably drier than my 202. The wet ride in the 202 is my only complaint about the boat.

[Davis Viehbeck]

The 202 with a walk-thru windshield is a sweet rig. The walk-thru addresses any spray issues that people often associate with this brand. I've been in some nasty stuff in 202's on large lakes and feel very confident!

-DV

[Sanchez]

Looking at the TS202 I can only see the 9 holders in the center rod storage compartment. Is there any other rod storage on the boat, if not is there any other options of adding rod storage to the TS202?