Allright guys I've been a bank maggot for 18 years and am ready for a boat and need some help. I'm debating between a sled and a more multi-purpose boat like a smokercraft. I want to keep the price down under 10 grand if I can. I will primarily use it in the Columbia for salmon and sturgeon (I'm getting tired of float tubing for the sturgeon), and also the North Fork Lewis, Cowlitz and other large rivers. I looked at a flat bottom sled and am curious as to pro's and con's of this type as well as any other suggestions you might have.
Thanks,
Buzz

You have an unwinnable challenge on your hands. The smaller rivers that you mentioned are best suited non V boats, the Columbia on the other hand can kick out some nasty water fairly fast and a V is needed. Also the heavier the better for that rough water which a sled is not. Probably your best bet for under 10,000 would be an older Alumaweld Super V with a 3-6 degree at the back. Also...stay away from rivets (my opinion) If you had more money to spend there is no doubt I would send you to Thor-built and have them custom make you one...but that would ding you for about 30,000.00 Email me if you have any questions.

Jim

Hey buzzerbaby welcome to the board. Looks like you are from the same part of the world as I. Sorry I can not be much of a help with the boat I use a drift boat. Love it on the tribs but can not use it on the mighty columbia. I would say Jim is right on with the info. Good luck and mayby we will cross paths some day.
Keep The Rivers Clean!!!

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dank

Well you probably don't see me on the Kalama, but I fish 3-5 times a week on the East Fork in winter.

I have a 97 Alumaweld Intruder (18ft) that I would sell if you want to spend around $20,000. It has a 115 Merc, brand new downriggers, custom seats, CD player, depth/fish finder, etc. Immaculate condition and ready to fish.


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ExtraStout

Take a look at the smokercraft 1860mv. I just got one with a 90hp yahama and gal. trailer for $10,850 in Aberdeen. Had it on the river 8 times now and lovin it. Also use it on the lake. 24' sides, fish box, all welded 100gauge alum. 181/2 feet long with a modified bow. More details at www.smokercraft.com/

[This message has been edited by potter (edited 08-16-2000).]

Hey Bro,
This topic can be liking talking politics with everyone having a different opinion, so I'll give you mine.I own a 19' Alaska Jet Sled and a 15' Thor-Built Drift Boat.I live on the banks of the Columbia and fish the"reach" alot, but also run the smaller rivers.I have fished out of every Jet Boat on the market almost.The difference between a Sled and a V-hull are not as drastic as everyone thinks since when their up on plane only the back two-thirds of the boat is touching the water and both are pretty much flat bottom.The V's are smoother getting up on plane in rougher water,but if you get the air ride seats on your boat even the sleds are exceptable.I personally like outboard jets for fishing because they don't take up room in the back of the boat and you can tilt them clear out of the water if need be(cleaning out the intake).My advice is to buy a Boat Trader and get a used boat with lots of goodies all ready on it.Wooldridge makes a good boat and there is usually several on the market.Just about every jet boat manufacturer makes a great product so just pick one out you like and go fishing.I agree with Mr.Bain on staying away from riveted boats for running water where a jet is needed.Good Luck,lester

Buzzer,

I spent a lot of time and looked at a lot of sleds, didn't see a very many used sleds for $10,000 when I was looking, most were $19,000 and up. So now you need to decide, do I need a sled for where I am fishing or do I change my fishing to fit the boat I get?
Sorry, probably not a lot of help, many different opinions I am sure. I bought a new sled, went to the sportsmen's expo and looked at the latest and greatest, my wife talked me into a sled we would both enjoy. Plan on having it for a long time. Take care.
Sincerely,

Doubletake

Jim Bain,I would like some mor info about these Thor built boats.Where are they built,what do they cost,etc etc.I've havre been in the market for a sled or another drift boat for a couple of months now.But what I'm finding is that they either want 30,000 for the darn things(sleds) or they just aren't equiped very well.How bout a little more advice and information.