Hello all, I am looking at a 2004 Starcraft C-star DC 186 right now. It has a 150 hp optimax with under 150 hours. Does anyone have any insight into this model of boat. It looks like it would be a good fishing boat, but wanted to ask the experts.

thanks

Starcraft went thru a series of layout changes on their 17-19 ft boats in the 2003-2010 period. The C-Star was around for a year or two but it appears that its interior arrangement and features may have been too plain for potential buyers. If the interior suits your needs, then this is no problem for you. I have a Superfisherman SF176 SC w/150 Opti, bought new in 2002. Compared to the C-Star I like my interior layout, storage, etc better, but that's just my opinion and how I use the boat. The basic Starcraft hulls come in 3 deadrise variants, and you'll have to check the deadrise angle at the transom to see which is on the boat. I can't recall which hull was used on the C-Stars I looked at years back at the local dealer. The first variant is a fairly shallow vee, of around a 10 degree deadrise. This hull is very stable but does not ride that well in rough water due to the shallow vee. The second variant is what I have on my SF176, a 16-17 degree deadrise which rides well in rough water but needs a bit more power to get up on plane and is a bit more subject to rolling when trolling. The 3rd variant is a 19 degree deep vee which is excellent in rough water, but has again will be a bit more subject to rolling whan trolling. Note that when compared to most all other brands of tin boats on a size to size basis, the Starcrafts have significantly higher deadrise angles and tend to have a very good ride for a fishing boat. The 150 Opti is a good choice for a boat of this size. I would inspect the hull at the transom for signs of any cracking- there should be none unless the boat has been run aground or snagged a rock. As Beeman notes, push the consoles around to check for looseness as these will tend to loosen if the boat has been beat up. I have no looseness at all in mine after 9 years. If I was looking for a used rig I'd certainly give this boat a close look. You might also consider pulling the S/N from the Opti's ID plate on the transom mounting bracket and have a dealer run the number up on his computer. He can give you a complete history on the engine as to any trouble codes, upgrades, or repairs made by a dealer.
Doug

I decided to purchase the boat! It is in great shape as far as my eye can see. The dead rise is 15 degrees. I inspected the transom and console - both are solid. I had the dealer run the s/n on the motor and nothing negative came back. Can't wait to get it on the water and put some fish in the livewell!:rock-on:

"Can't wait to get it on the water and put some fish in the livewell!"
- this sounds like a good plan.
Doug