Tunnel Hull Boats?

[slimeyslab]

Anybody got one or ever ride in a tunnel hull aluminum boat. I know they are for running in shallow water but how do they do in deep or rough water? What are the pros and cons? Thanks

[Beaubayou]

I have one a 16'+ just under 17' for Coast Guard Regs. It runs great in shallow water can get in and out of 12" and less water, it has a 6" set jack plate and jacked up as high as I can go with it, now I fish mainly small bayous so rough water isn't really a problem down here in South Louisiana (south of I-10). I have started fishing up in Central Louisiana in some open lakes that tend to get rough at times and it will beat you to death, I won't lie to you, if you slack off the gas it isn't to bad. With an almost flat bottom I think it has an 8 degree dead rise if I remember correctly. I bought it because it's a pretty heavy all welded boat with ribs every 12" and I also duck hunt out it. All in all I love it and wouldn't trade it for nothing. The only thing I would do is get rid of the 1979 85 HP Johnson Javlin and put a surface drive on it, if my wife would let me, then you talk about going places not sure anything but solid dirt would stop it then.

Bruce

[rockmike]

A tunnel hull takes getting used to. The motor sets in the tunnel, so you don't get much rudder effect from it . You have to steer under power, and it won't turn sharply. Makes loading a boat interesting sometimes. They will run shallow water well if you keep them powered up----just don't lose your nerve.