Fish & Ski: O/B vs I/O

[JonM81]

HI guys... I searched a good while, didn't find the answers I was looking for...

I am looking at 2 fish & ski boats:

2002 Tahoe Q3SF 18ft 115HP Merc O/B... Really clean...

1997 Glastron GS205SF 20ft 215HP Volvo V8...

The boats are both about the same price 11,000ish...


Would you guys go older with more power or newer prettier?? What should I look for with each one as far as wear and tear problems? What kinda re-sell problems could I run into in the future, other than GASSSSS??

If you had the chance to wait and spend that much money, what would you recommend or look for??

I love to ski and bass fish. Any info, advice and guidence appreciated!!

Jon

[Corpus Skipper]

It's really a personal choice. Which boat better suits your needs. Either will do what you want it to. Personally in fresh water I'd go with the I/O simply because they're quieter, a little more fuel efficient, and I like a "clean" transom. The V8 will have gobs more torque for pulling skiers.

[JonM81]

I would think the 4 stroke would be more fuel effic... Hmm... Unfortunately the Glastron was sold, but I think I am going with the tahoe. Thanks for your input!!

[Jango]

If you're the type of Bass fisherman who likes to go after them in the weeds and shallows, you would be better off with the OB. A lot less weight and Draft. Far easier to manuver. The 115 Mercs are no slouch either, when it comes to power. But as previously stated the 5.0 IO will pull more skiers.

[JonM81]

If you're the type of Bass fisherman who likes to go after them in the weeds and shallows, you would be better off with the OB. A lot less weight and Draft. Far easier to manuver. The 115 Mercs are no slouch either, when it comes to power. But as previously stated the 5.0 IO will pull more skiers.


Right on... I think I will be happy with the 115!! My 1979 VIP fish/ski w/ 80HP was pretty impressive as far as power goes... Ripped the transom right off in 2004 due to dry rot... I have the loan in the making now!!