Im wondering from the guides on the board , what kind of driftboat do use and what makes it better for what you use it for. Thanks

I run two Wild Hair driftboats .. a 20+ x 72 and a 16 x 54.

I'd like to be able to get another form them, but the owners' (primary builder) health has been poor and things are still in hiatus there.

Frankly, for me aside from an overall well-built boat, the biggest factors in choosing boats from him were not only the promo deal I had with him while building but his willingness to listen to the input of those that rowed them and no whiny "Why do you want that?" when you ask for something other than std.

There are a number of good manufacturers out there. Personally, when I buy again and Wild Hair is not an option, I'll likely look at a Hyde or of course a Willie. Both are nice boats ... the Willie's perhaps more durable, but both charge an arm and a leg by the time you get all the extras that I like to have in my boats.

I'd myself not go with a Fish-Rite, Koffler, Diamandback, Thor-Built, or Alumaweld for my WA boat as I feel they are too sluggish in the waters I row. NOt syaing they're a bad boat, just not my needs.

There's another smaller company that just contacted me that I might look at ... but that'll be another thread

Thanks Bob. I just ordered 17+54 willie today with some of the the goodies. Was really hoping to get the 60 but they arent out yet. Maybe next year.

Werner,
You must have been a very good boy.
Good choice, by the way.
Enjoy.

I run a 17x54 Willie and have had several others in my life as a guide. Yes, they are
"Simply the best"

Probably should have gone to a 16x54 with my shoulders and body being so bad but maybe next time.

fp

For a lot of the guides its whoever they're currently "prostaffin" for. $$$$$

Beezer

Being from the drift boat capital of the world and knowing quite a few guide's I would say that a Willie 17x54 is the boat of choice at least in southern Oregon and northern California. But that is more because of fishing 2 to 3 big dude's and gear. If it is the every day guy I think the 16x54 is the way to go as they are a little quicker and easyer to row. Pete