2002 Lowe 170w ???

[chodie1]

Would a Lowe 170 W make a good Crappie Boat. I know it is a bass boat, but would it serve well as a crappie boat l. Have a chance to buy one that has less than 10 hrs running time with a 50 yamma. Always in large storage building. Looks brand new. Asking price is $5000.00 Any of you folks use or own a boat like this? any comments appreciated.

["G"]

Sure you can make a crappie boat out of it. I fish out of a G3 bass boat. All you need is a good fishfinder on the front and some good rod holders...it works for me anyway.

[jaxsprat]

I have heard many good reports about Lowe boats, and that 50 yama is one great motor. You like it get it, sounds like a great set up.

[skeetbum]

I had a sea nymph, who was bought by lowes, or subsidiary, or whatever. The boat was riveted. Owned it 6 yrs. Perfectly dry when I got it, didn't leak a drop. Needed many rivets redone when I sold it. Lowe is a good name, but I wouldn't buy another riveted boat. IMHO

[Hanr3]

You dont need much for a Crappie boat. You just need something to get over the fish, some way of finding the fish, and something to put the crappie into once you catch them. A row boat, bucket and a decent lake map will work. Every upgrade will enhance your ability to find and keep fish. Catching them is still up to you.


As for a riveted boat. I own a '67 Alumacraft that doesn't leak. That boat is 42 years old and doesn't leak. I also know it hit something while on plane. The second to last rib is bent up about 1/2" and there is a small dent in the floor. It hit hard enough to break the corner screws holding the transom board to the top of the transom and bend a rib. However it still doesn't leak. I think you would be hard pressed to find a glass boat that can take a hit like that and not suffer severe damage. I seriously doubt I will ever own a glass boat. Just offering another opinion.

Sounds like you found yourself a great deal. Post some pics when you get her home. :D

[JBledsoe]

.

If it floats it's a fishing boat! I have fished out of a Lowe as you describe and it works great. That Yamaha will push the Lowe about 25 to 30 mph and get good fuel mileage, 6 to 8 MPG. Handling is a little sluggish when loaded with four adults but ok with one or two.
If you don't want to go fast or haul heavy loads that rig will serve you well.

.

[greenchicken]

I like my little Lowe boat

[SIMPLEMAN]

chodie1 i've used them for twenty years. the last one i had was a 165. i'd still have it if i could have got the motor fixed. good boats for the money. rather have one than the aluminum triton i'm fishing out of now.

[DavidP]

I own a 2003 model Lowe FM165 with 60 hp 4 stroke yammie. Engine sips gas and the boat has been put thru some real rough timber fishin. Both crappie and catfishin. We call her the Stump Jumper! Welded & rivited and doesn't leak a drop. I have owned two Lowe boats and have been very pleased with them.

[Speck69]

I've got a '06 Lowe 17' Roughneck which is an econo bass style boat with a 50 Merc and it does everything I ask of it. Fully welded hull has held up well in rough water, rocks, stumps and everything else that I have ran into. Top speed is 30 mph via gps. I like it a lot but at times I also think I would like a fancier tin boat...more comfort, storage, power.