Looking to buy my first boat. Really looking to buy new (mainly because of my lack of mechanical skills). Wanting to go aluminum. Main fishing area will be the Mobile/Tensaw Delta for bass, crappie and bream although the fall trout fishing is a consideration also. For those familiar with the area I’m mainly interested in fishing areas north of the causeway.

Boats in my budget are the Xpress XP7, Tracker 175 Tournament Edition and Triton TX18 (2018 model). All would have 24V trolling motor and some upgraded eletronics.

Would appreciate any insights/experience folks might have on these boats. It’s quite mind boggling.

Thanks

The Tracker and Triton are the exact same boats made by the same company.I think I've looked at all of them over the last 6mths and I'm down to Xpress and G3. Leaning heavily towards the GS Sportsman myself. Just seems to be better laid out than the Xpress boats.

I'm not sure there is a bad boat, just look at the layout of each & get the one that suits you. Don't settle for less, you will regret it. My local dealer carries G3 & Vexus aluminum. The G3 seems to be a fantastic aluminum boat but the dry storage left a lot to be desired. I bought the Vexus & have no regrets.

Tracker and Triton are not the same hulls ranger is the same as Triton except for trailer Have a 2018 rt 188 have been satisfied with it.

This ^^^

I bought a used 2013 Tracker 175twx in 2016 and I think it is a great boat. However it was my first boat there are a few things that I wish I knew wat to look for when I bought it. Small things like legroom under the console, Im 6'1" on a good day and there is no chance that I get both legs under the console. And second, I dont know how the Xpress and Tritons are but on my tracker the starboard console prevents rods over 6'6" from being stord on the front deck on that side. There is no where for the rod tips to go between the console and the gunwale. The below deck rod storage in the new Trackers is much better than on mine. These are two minor things that I dislike about my Tracker but I can live with because I think my wife would leave me if I upgraded right now. Also good call on the upgraded 24volt trolling motor, youll need it in an aluminum.

I have an Xpress and couldn't be happier with it. They are really good boats and ride almost as good as a glass boat because they have a pad like a glass boat. If it's aluminum and doesn't have a pad, it won't ride good on choppy water.

dads got an 03 18 foot express and its been a great boat. no issues that i can rmember and he bought it in 04. the wind blows it around prettt gpod but thats just part of an aluminum boat

Friends have Xpress and G3 and have been happy.

Love my xpress

BOAT
I almost drove to mobile to look at this one before I bought a 2015 model the one in the link has the maximum rated 75hp motor 24volt trolling motor and electric anchor not sure about electronics. the're asking $12k for it but my grandaddy was a used car salesman you always ask for 20% more than you'll take for it, the suckers that pay full asking price make up for the 20% when you get Jewed down every once and a while.

I really like my little xpress but I have never owned any of the other brands mentioned to compare too either.

I looked at some bay boats at that L&M dealership in Stapleton. Seemed to be pretty good people to deal with. Ended up going with a different brand.

Thanks for all the replies. My list was narrowed down to the 3 boats in the OP mainly due to having local dealers in the area and hopefully better access to service.

One follow up question: This boat will likely be stored outside (not under a shed/roof). I really like carpeted decks but wondering if I should go with a spray in or vinyl (Tracker) covered flooring? I asked a couple of the dealers and one said carpet would be fine, the other says no way. Thoughts?

i wouldnt leave any new boat outside like that. id atleast try to get on of those portable carport deals to have it under

Carpet and outside don't go together

Im new to boating too just like you . I ended up buying a little 2019 Tracker Pro 160 just to get the warranty and all like you, as I dont know anything about fixing a boat.

Its a Small aluminum boat, 2 seater. 40 HP engine. Nothing fancy or big but a good 2 person boat. It goes around 30 MPH but I drive it around 25 MPH usually unless hauling arse early in the am to get to a good spot.

If youre going to fish with 2 or 3 guys Id definitely go bigger to the size you mentioned. My boat does great for me, and me and one person. I really like it a lot. Been a LOT of fun and WELL WORTH the investment.

I went that size just so I could store it in my garage actually. I could of housed a Pro 170 too I guess, I wasnt sure when I bought it but I do have enough room.

With the carpet you really should keep it inside. So if storing outside Id go for the vinyl floors or spray in.

Id also invest the $ for a metal carport to protect your investment, with either carpet or vinyl floors. The sun will quickly deteriorate your boat seats and console I would think.

Good luck and I really like my Tracker. Hope you find yours as much fun. Its a lot of fun. Im actually cutting back hunting to be honest just so I can fish more !

By the way, just watched the video on that tracker 175 tournament series. Very nice boat!

I know some may like but I'm not a fan of the spray in or vinyl flooring. Carpet is just more comfortable to me . A good cover would be a must if storing outside though.

Agreed. YOU HAVE TO KEEP THIS BOAT COVERED! If not, it will be junk in 2 to 3 years. The only boat made that can set outside like that are solid fiberglass center consoles with no seats or coverings.