Best Aluminum Bass Boat | Ranger Boats, Lowe Boats, Alumacraft Boats, & Bass Tracker?

[@clearwaterfishing]

Which boat is the best? Which one do you wish you had?

[@lapdsgtmurtaugh6896]

Ranger

[@aboveaverageengineer3001]

got a ranger 178. Great boat for the price. battery bay is a little cramped but it is big enough for some minor additions.

[@oscarmeeks9752]

I bought a 2025 tracker pro team 195 with the 150 xs on the back. So far I can float and trolly in 12-15” of water and I’ve hit 62mph. Love my tracker

[@jacksonbeverly3250]

The one that’s paid for

[@clearwaterfishing]

Of course!!!

[@barbarahunter5463]

I bought a bass tracker PT 175 TF it has two live wells a 15 gal and a 21 gal. It also has two rod lockers

[@HeartlandMakesAndOutdoors]

Nicely done on this video sir. Keep up the fun videos and have a blessed week. Dale

[@clearwaterfishing]

Thank you sir! Appreciate the support!

[@Jewishcatfish]

I have that model Alumnacraft and i have no idea where you the think the wood is on that boat cuz i sure don't see any!

[@clearwaterfishing]

Typically it is the deck of the boat. For sure the bow area where the trolling motor is mounted.

[@clearwaterfishing]

Also the transom is a common area. It outside is cladded in aluminum but the bulk in wood.

[@chrissmits3215]

My 1988 bass tracker cuz it's the same age as me so she still looks amazing

[@clearwaterfishing]

What do you have one the back of that thing?

[@chrissmits3215]

Just a 40hp mariner year is a 97 and I'm a packer fan so that's also a good year 😊

[@timtillfishing5906]

I bought a lowe stinger 178. 4 years ago. Love this boat. Gald I got it.

[@clearwaterfishing]

Heck yeah man! Not a bad choice. What is your favorite feature?

[@timtillfishing5906]

@@clearwaterfishing for their size of boat front and back deck is huge.

[@timtillfishing5906]

Also two live wells. Is really nice.

[@clearwaterfishing]

@@timtillfishing5906 I think it has a larger beam. Makes for a larger deck.

[@timtillfishing5906]

@@clearwaterfishing yes sir. Great boat.

[@sonnycarey7566]

I have a 92 Bass tracker 40 horse

[@GeorgiaKayakAngler]

It’s wild how they are made mostly at the same factory by the same company and materials.

[@DpuckFishingandOutdoors]

I'm adding this to the queue so I can watch later during my lunch. 👍

[@clearwaterfishing]

Awesome let me know what you think!

[@guyguthrie3236]

Having owned 3 of the aforementioned boats the Tracker is the hands down winner. Much more fishable because it holds more rods. Most bass anglers want 12 or more rods on their boat. It is way more affordable and only gives up 3 or 4 mph when comparing 75hp to 90hp. Imho robotic welding is superior and more consistent than the other types and powder coating is much harder and more durable as well. Larger fuel tank gives you more endurance and although trolling motors are equal the 45 lb. thrust seems to move Tracker more effectively due to lighter weight and modified v-hull has by far the smoothest and dryest ride of the four boats.

[@clearwaterfishing]

I loved my tracker when I had one.

[@johncatelli8767]

Fishing out of the ranger love it! Just one thing 3yrs in I'm in the market for more speed an room but I must say the one maybe the 19 ft ranger. If I had to say wish I spent the money up front

[@clearwaterfishing]

I also am looking to upgrade. I got a bass tracker 175 but want to move up to a 20’ Skeeter or nitro.

[@ddm62571]

The RT178 has a massive 30gal livewell and the two back storage compartments hold 5 large Plano boxes each

[@clearwaterfishing]

Thank you! I couldn’t find it anywhere. Do you have one?

[@ddm62571]

@@clearwaterfishing Yeah the livewell size is not listed anywhere. The only reason I know is cuz I'm having an RT 178 built and the Ranger rep told me 30 gallons.

[@FishingMadeEasy]

great boats. I've always loved Lowes. just subbed nice channel

[@clearwaterfishing]

Fishing Made Easy Thank you! Glad you enjoyed!

[@jdnotariano]

Thank you sir, this is helpful. Still a pretty tough decision…

[@clearwaterfishing]

Glad it was helpful! Have you picked?

[@jdnotariano]

@@clearwaterfishing I am sticking with my Tracker Pro160 for another year. Will decide over the next year what to buy, I may go with a used boat.

[@fabfishing7422]

Definitely love the Lowe Stinger..have you seen the Favorite edition with Seadek? It's incredible! Also love the Crestliner MX21 coming out this fall they say..

[@clearwaterfishing]

I have not. I need to check it out. I really have never looked at Crestliner. What is special about the favorite edition?

[@fabfishing7422]

@@clearwaterfishing just some serious bells and whistles including the Seadek 🙂

[@clearwaterfishing]

FullArmorBassin Got to check it out. Never heard of a seadek.

[@DpuckFishingandOutdoors]

That favorite edition is crazy.

[@fishymusty]

I tow with my Explorer, the gas tank is on the passenger side. So is my Lowe fuel fill.

[@chadjohnson6407]

Could have included the tracker tf model. It has dual live well.

[@clearwaterfishing]

You know, I didn’t even think about the TF. I should have considered that.

[@timg185]

I like my Ranger RT198 p . But I wish I had bought an Xpress.

[@clearwaterfishing]

How come?

[@timg185]

@@clearwaterfishing they just seem better built. I went through a lot getting mine set up right. The x19 xpress takes a 175 hp and is faster. Also I’m starting to like the sea deck.

[@edwardcowan7012]

Don’t have to be a beginner to consider this size boat. I use a lot of unimproved ramps on small waters. You can get a Ghost TM, 9” Graphs, power poles and a hydraulic jack plate on the Ranger. Smaller boats can be such an advantage that they have rules preventing you from using one on some of the pro level tournaments, generally added after someone wins with one. I’ve looked at the Ranger and will have to look at the Lowe before I pull the trigger. The RT178 well equipped will be close to 30K.

[@clearwaterfishing]

You are correct and named several reasons why it doesn't. I personally think the Ranger is the way to go. Let me know what you decide.

[@bluewater9795]

I wish you would have included the hull warranty. Aluminum will flex. Also, you can order the tracker 175 txw with a 90 hp.

[@clearwaterfishing]

I didn't even think about that. I couldn't find a single TXW with a 90. Or see you could order one either.

[@fn3_nono386]

What about Crestliner

[@clearwaterfishing]

I didn’t consider them or express. Which brand would you knock out of this video to make room for Crestliner?

[@DpuckFishingandOutdoors]

Great info here. I thought the Lowe and Alumacraft are also 100% wood free. I have been looking at a new boat for a while and have been leaning Lowe. You also have the Triton and Crestliner 17 foot boats.

[@clearwaterfishing]

I did not know that. I didn’t see it in my research. That would bump them up for me.

[@johnstanley6819]

I own a Lowe stinger 195. I love it. Lowe boats have the widest decks for aluminum boats. Very stable fishing platform with plenty of space.

[@DpuckFishingandOutdoors]

@@johnstanley6819 It is 100% aluminum, right?

[@johnstanley6819]

@@DpuckFishingandOutdoors That is correct.

[@DpuckFishingandOutdoors]

@@johnstanley6819 Thanks. I am leaning hard on the Lowe for next summer.

[@rw1377]

Why not include the Vexus?...

[@clearwaterfishing]

I picked the biggest players in the aluminum boat market. Vexus was on the list, but didn't make the cut.

[@allencasal]

Good video but you missed the original aluminum boat Xpress and G3 is also a huge player. But good video

[@clearwaterfishing]

I know! It would have been an hour long if I put all the boats in there. I did the best I could. Do you think one of those is better?

[@loganvick3385]

@@clearwaterfishing definitely cypress aluminum boats are top notch and g3 ain’t cheap either

[@johnstanley6819]

The Lowe boat also offers the widest deck of all the 17 foot boats.

[@clearwaterfishing]

What is it’s width? Just curious. I know my tracker is narrow.

[@johnstanley6819]

@@clearwaterfishing The lowe boat has a 94 inch beam. I own the 195 stinger and the front deck is huge due to the wide beam. The 178 is similar.

[@midgebarker4022]

Boat has to have a Channel built boat trailer or I mark them off my list right away. After that, I would need a fiberglass driver console. I've had boats with flimsy consoles so that is a upgrade. The best boat will be what is best for you for your type of fishing and needs & budget.

[@clearwaterfishing]

You are exactly right. I’m looking for a fiberglass bass boat with a 4 stroke engine, ultrex, power poles or talons, and humminbird electronics. We all have our wants but can it fit in a budget?

[@akaitsmedre]

I totally agree with your ranking. The basstracker trailers are total junk...very light weight. The Tracker trailer axles actually bow and wear out the cheap 13 inch tires. Rangers have 14 in tires BTW. I have owned three new Trackers in last 30 years so I have experienced the junk and problems. I finally got smart and bought a Ranger.

[@clearwaterfishing]

I haven't had the trailer issues you have had, but doesn't mean it won't happen.

[@jeffibuilt]

should have put the lowe 175c on here. would be the best entry level in my opinion. has all the features of that 178 but with different seats and a few odds and ends and its probably the cheapest you can find.

[@clearwaterfishing]

Thanks man. Do you have one?

[@jeffibuilt]

@@clearwaterfishing i do not. i have researched them heavily but decided to go with the 195c instead as in the grand scheme of things i'd rather pay an extra 4k and get a larger boat. glad to see these types of videos though. keep it up!

[@clearwaterfishing]

@@jeffibuilt I find myself in the same boat (pun intended). Where you can spend just a bit more money and get a better product. I really appreciate your support. I will do the best I can!

[@glenedwards3038]

ranger has a 7 rod storage and the back side boxes hold 4 3700 and 1 3600 boxes

[@clearwaterfishing]

Thanks man. Appreciate the help!

[@thelifescout8335]

As far as I know base wise the Ranger and triton are the same just the ranger as the ranger amenities.

[@clearwaterfishing]

Which one would you rather have?

[@thelifescout8335]

Even though they are the same being that I’ve grown up with my father owning Tritons and loving the brand I’d have to chose the triton. Lol and I think there is a lil bit of a cut in price. Curious though have you heard of anyone having weld cracking issues or major issues with the structure of any aluminum bass boat? I’ve only had experience with glass

[@clearwaterfishing]

@@thelifescout8335 I haven’t heard too many weld cracking issues on any brand really. Mostly stay away from rivets.

[@buddyhinkle1375]

the lowe and the alumicraft are also wood free

[@clearwaterfishing]

Are you sure?

[@buddyhinkle1375]

@@clearwaterfishing yes

[@jimbob9799]

No polar Kraft?

[@clearwaterfishing]

Never heard of them.

[@jimbob9799]

@@clearwaterfishing hmmm. They are popular here in Pennsylvania. Good solid boat at a fair price. Fully reinforced welded hulls wide range of price points. Rangers are also a very popular one.

[@jamesmcburnett6670]

I wish my bass tracker was bigger and faster!

[@clearwaterfishing]

Don’t we all!

[@lukemyers7078]

What ab xpress???

[@clearwaterfishing]

I considered them, but I didn’t feel like they were a large enough brand. Not saying they don’t make a solid boat, just not a lot of them.

[@lukemyers7078]

I just like u can put 200 hp on them

[@ddm62571]

@@clearwaterfishing Express is a very small brand the nearest dealer is like 1000 miles away from me.

[@TmarkHigg-br4kw]

Lund !!!! Has any other aluminum boat won a bass master classic.

[@4201bm]

Express hands down.

[@clearwaterfishing]

Why do you think that?

[@4201bm]

The hyperlift hull, performance and value. Upgrade to a Hydraulic Jack plate and they fly.

[@clearwaterfishing]

@@4201bm guess I need to take a look at them! Thank you.

[@bcroft68bc]

1. Vexus 2. Ranger 3. Lowe

[@clearwaterfishing]

I like your list as well. I didn't even consider Vexus.

[@lundboat3855]

I had alumacraft,lund and lowe best was lowe

[@clearwaterfishing]

What made it the best?

[@duanetheimer7215]

Smaller aluminum bass boats are limited to space everywhere. If your fishing smaller lakes v hull is the way to go. Need a 17 ft or larger aluminum bass boat to have ample space to fish and carry gear.

[@clearwaterfishing]

Does a v hull have any other benefits?

[@FalconsATL]

What? No G3?

[@clearwaterfishing]

I really thought about them but they aren’t a super popular boat so not many people know about them.

[@FalconsATL]

@@clearwaterfishing Wow! That’s crazy! They’re good boats, made by Yamaha & a division of Skeeter (I think), all aluminum with NO wood, offers vinyl flooring, and can be nicely equipped!

[@clearwaterfishing]

@@FalconsATL I agree. I almost bought one!

[@FalconsATL]

@@clearwaterfishing I’m buying one today!!! lol

[@korywulfekuhle5587]

Xpress Stomps all other competitors in the aluminum line up

[@clearwaterfishing]

I looked at one a while back. It was an older one, but I wasn't impressed.

[@korywulfekuhle5587]

There 2019 and newer models are premo! They made a ton of great changes that the older ones had problems with

[@clearwaterfishing]

@@korywulfekuhle5587 I kinda figured the newer ones were better. Everyone tries to improve over time.

[@korywulfekuhle5587]

Agreed. Just think you should review one sometime if you get the oppertunity

[@clearwaterfishing]

@@korywulfekuhle5587 It’s a deal. I’ll make it happen.

[@BenJones-jd7qh]

You can’t make this list without Lund

[@clearwaterfishing]

You know I totally forgot about them because there not any in my area. Great boats though.

[@martinpena5614]

Lowe is all aluminum , their website indicates wood free all welded aluminum Boat.

[@4silver405]

Lund Renegade 1775 blows all of these out of the water. Completely different level of boat.

[@clearwaterfishing]

I will have to check it out!

[@gregc2621]

Entry level? Uh.. Cox? Lowen? Poche? Etc...

[@clearwaterfishing]

If those are brands, I’ve never heard of them.

[@daveb9682]

Buyers just be careful, Alumacraft does not honor their warranty commitment very well, if at all. Lowe is much better to deal with in my experience.

[@clearwaterfishing]

That's good info!

[@terryogletree2128]

Gator Trax is the best

[@clearwaterfishing]

What makes it the best?

[@terryogletree2128]

@@clearwaterfishing Up to .190 thickness on aluminum and harder than run of the mill boats plus you can custom design numerous features , storage components , rod lockers , insulated fish boxes , live wells , deck size , center console vs side console , trolling motor brand and many more rite down to cup holder and rod holder placement Call Kent Saxon at Gator Trax he can explain it alot better than I can or just goole one of their numerous videos . I currently have a Duracraft Extreme 1860 with 90 hp Yamaha . Hope to get the 1862gt w huntdeck w/150 merc with the custom layout that I want with the light package for shrimping and night time flounder gigging

[@terryogletree2128]

@@clearwaterfishing Plus any color you want , camouflage or custom Gator Trax pattern . They might not be for entry level guys or someone who has to ask permission to go hunting or fishing . They are for the extreme outdoors

[@terryogletree2128]

@@clearwaterfishing Plus built with extruded aluminum not cheaper break aluminum for ribs or braces

[@NFiltr8Red]

They all look the same, same Mercury engines, same trolling motor. All your paying for is the name. Buy what you like.

[@clearwaterfishing]

No argument here.

[@danielputney8686]

aluminacraft does not have any wood in the deck construction. you had bad information on that one.

[@clearwaterfishing]

That's not what they advertised at the time of this video.

[@bigfish7112]

Gator trax.period

[@glenedwards3038]

7 rod storage

[@clearwaterfishing]

Thanks man!

[@TmarkHigg-br4kw]

The best aluminum boat is a Lund. By far you goof ball. It's not even close. If you take a trip up north almost every boat is a Lund. You see them in fishing camps that are 50 years old.

[@jakehorton1410]

Polarcraft.

[@clearwaterfishing]

What makes Polarcraft the best?

[@jakehorton1410]

@@clearwaterfishing not saying it is the best. Bc ive never been in one. The layout and price had my eye. If i wanted the best and didnt care about price i would go gator traxx. Or maybe 2 others

[@jakehorton1410]

Also i am spending the money on active target as i had a carbon order threw Russell's marine for 1600 and the sold it out from under me now i have to spend 3k for a live. I have the panoptix for my allumicraft. So no new troll or gear this year bc of Russel. Not very happy with thim.

[@jakehorton1410]

@@clearwaterfishing i really like your reviews and information you put out. But me personally i will never give morris another dime of my money or time of my day. He is destroying the bass industry with his buy outs. There is way more out there than to buy into his walmart like ways. Just my 2 cents.

[@clearwaterfishing]

@@jakehorton1410 kinda lost on you comment. Can you help me out.

[@johnstanley6819]

Lowe boats are wood free.

[@clearwaterfishing]

Awesome! Some of this information is hard to find, so I am sure I missed stuff. Thank you!

[@bobgalbraith994]

Yeah, I have the Lowe and supposed to be wood free, one of their selling points. Nice reviews.

[@crappiedayfishon1756]

all of those boats are junk for there price. they can work, but over priced for what u get. there are better options for less money!

[@clearwaterfishing]

Give us some names!

[@ddm62571]

Cheaper than a Tracker? I'm doubting that.

[@kevinobrien5360]

I am thinking the same as Clearwater so name some then bavk what you commented.

[@kevinobrien5360]

back

[@clearwaterfishing]

@@kevinobrien5360 Thanks man!

[@timkennedy4581]

Lowe has no wood in it.

[@clearwaterfishing]

Did not know that.