Lund 1700 Fisherman

[DRP]

I will be picking this boat up with the Merc 115 2 stroke in about a week. I'm in the same position as a lot of you guys with the decisions regarding rigging the boat. I went with the X-85 on the dash, and will eventually put my Zercom flasher on the bow. I was wondering if anybody has an idea of the top end of the boat and how far down the 2+2 will troll.

I'm also going to be looking for a bow mount. Any feedback on which one and whether the autopilot feature is worth the additional cost, would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Dale

[Fred_G]

Can't comment on top speed or trolling but the 115 is a great motor. My friend John has the 115 Merc on his 1700 Pro Sport and really likes it. He also has the 48 lbs autopilot. Would like the 65 lbs at times but no complaints. He has the 48" shaft, but I would recommend the 60" Just easier to keep in the water.

I just picked up my new Lund 1700 Angler tiller. I have the 65 lbs autopilot on the front. Can't wait for the ice to clear so I can use it. Good Luck! Fred

[Smitty]

I previously had a 1700 with a 90HP and it ran about 37-38 with a 9.9 4-stroke kicker hanging on the back, full tank, and 2 guys with gear.. Ran right around 40 prior to putting the kicker on, so I would guess you should be in the low-mid 40's with the 115..

Have fun.

[Steve(CO)]

I have a new 1700 also and you do need the 60" bow mount otherwise it will be out of the water in waves. Everyone has recommended the more powerful motor, as well. I went with the Pinpoint, but if I hadn't, I would definitely have gone autopilot. Good luck and have fun.

[REW]

You don't say, but I am assuming that you are getting the walk through windshield.

If so, there is a lot of freeboard, and very tall windshields on this boat. Two of the reasons that make this such a great family boat and also a pretty dry boat for its occupants.

However, because of the high sides, and the high windshield -- on the walk through model - there is a lot of wind effect on this boat. Also the boat is relatively light for its size, and thus sits high in the water. Both of these factors give rise to excellent hole shot - good top speed -- but does make the boat somewhat sensitive to the wind.

Because of this wind effect -- it is recommended by many owners of this boat -- that you purchase a minimum of two large drift socks. You can rig thse socks of the sides or bow and stern or other combinations to reduce drift and also wind effects.

You can also tie one of the bow on a short tether -- and use it to slow the boat and stabilize the bow, if useing the big motor for trolling. Works very well indeed.

However, becuse of the high sides and wind effect - it is increasingly difficult to fish specific spots on structure - using only the bow mounted trolling motor. I don't know if you have considered it or not -- but because of the depth of the splash well and driver positioning -- you might be wise to consider the purchase of an electrically steered "Transom" mounted trolling motor. That way, when the wind is blowing up a bit -- you can turn the square stern into the wind -- and use the stern mounted trolling motor to "hover' on a specific spot on a structure. With nearly any high sided 'lighter" boat with a walk through windshield -- it is very difficult indeed to do this task with a bow mounted trolling motor. The bow catches the wind -- and you are having to be on the motor continuously to compensate for the wind and waves and its effect on the various parts of the boat.

However, there are so many great things about the boat -- that don't let this concern you. It is a wonderful boat - and the several friends that have them - wouldn't own any thing else.

However, if you haven't already -- consider the purchase of a transom mounted trolling motor - in additoion to the bow mounted motor.

Take care

REW

[DRP]

Thanks a lot for all the posts regarding this boat package and my concerns. Although, I have been a more infrequent contributor to the board, I have gained a lot of great insite on a wide variety of topics. As most people would agree, Rew's contributions to this board have been especially helpful.

I would also welcome any more insight regarding this boat or rigging recommendations.

Thanks, Dale

[DRP]

Sorry Rew, forgot to mention that yes, indeed I went with the full windshield and topset.

I seen that as a real benefit to protect from the elements including the hot July sun.

Thanks Again!

[Flip South Dakota]

The Fisherman line of Lund boats only comes with a full windsheild. YOU WILL LOVE THIS BOAT!!!!!! Nice and deep, dry, and with the IPS hull gets up on plane real fast. Very stable, she's a poormans TYEE. I got the topset, and bought the bow cushions. The wife likes them.

I also have a 115 on it, she runs in the mid 40's loaded, and very close to 50 light.

You need to get the longest shaft front mount trolling motor you can get. As far as the boat being high in the water its nice to have that depth when the going get tough. I'll take fighting a little wind.

The Fisherman has been a good seller here in South Dakota.

[HUSKY MUSKY]

JUST CURIOUS ON PRICE I TOLD I GOT A H--L OF A DEAL ON MINE WICH I BROUGHT HOME YESTERDAY 2000 1700 FISHERMAN WITH SPORT OPTION WICH INCLUDES BOW COVER CANVAS TOP AMF CASSETT FIRE EXSTINGUISHER
2000 SHORELANDR TRAILER 2001 JOHNSON 90 HORSEPOWER UNDER 15000.00
OUT THE DOOR I AM A LITTLE CONCEARNED ABOUT THE BOAT BEING UNDER POWERED I FISH BYMYSELF MOST OF THE TIME . BUT IF THE PERFORMANCE IS TO POOR I WILL LOOK AT CHANGING THE CARBS EVERYTHING ELSE IS THE SAME AS A 115 I LIVE IN ERIE AND WE HAVE OPEN WATER ON THE BAY IWILL DRESS REAL WARM AND START THE BREAK IN THIS WEEK GOOD LUCK MIKE

[REW]

Several of my friends have this exact boat powered by either a Merc or OMC 90 hp. Although it is under the max hp rating -- none of them are looking for more power. They all purchased the boat for fishing and cruising -- as well as some skiing for their kids. This motor fills the bill perfectly, plus it gets better gas mileage compared to the larger motors.

With the typical load on this boat -- and with the typical prop - either a 17,18, or 19 -- depending on brand, and load in the boat --- the boat will be running from 37 - 43 mph.

For these folks - this is plenty of speed and they are all very happy with their rig.

Take care and enjoy your purchase.

p.s. -
If you go to a 125 -- you should be pushing the mid to possibly the high 40s in speed.

[Stumpy]

You're getting a great all-a-round boat and a solid motor. As far as your trolling motor, I couldn't agree more with everyones input. Go with the BIG motor. I have the Minn Kota 65 pound (24 volt) AP/PD (auto pilot/power drive) with a 60" shaft. Like you, I really debated on the auto pilot, but I'm glad I spent the extra money. The longer shaft really pays off in rough water. Make sure you get the NEW style of Minn Kota bow mount. They reconfigured the deployment system (and looks) and it is extremely user friendly compared to the older style (like mine). Also, give some thought to an on-board charger (if not now, later) they are worth every penny. Have fun with it. I have a similar set up and the family loves it!!!

Stumpy

[FOOTDOC]

Hey Husky Musky,
Do you mind sharing with us what dealer you got this lund package at? Sounds like a good deal! Was it a left over 2000? Thanks for the info!

[Tom]

DRP, Make note----I certainly do not want to get buyers remorse over my comments. But, did you know that the 125 Merc is less than 100 dollars more than the Merc 115 ? Quite a bit more for your money if you look into it. Hope I didn't step on you or your dealers toes. Tom

[DRP]

Tom,

Yes I was aware that I could have went with the 125 Mercury for an additional $200. Knowing the motor was identical as the 115 (the 10HP increase accomplished through tuning), I felt that from a longevity stand point of the motor, I was better off with the 115.

I would definetly recommend John at Rapid Sport Center (763-434-1111) for anyone in the Twin Cities looking for a Lund. They are off Hwy 65 in Ham Lake.

I think you will be pleasantly surprised with the service and the package John or the other staff can put together for you. I know I have no complaints.

Thanks, Dale