My New Boat Walkthrough! Xplor x18 Skiff

[@tommycrenshaw6038]

You can probably convert that overly expensive Yeti bucket into a livewell, and use that bucket holder to hold it. Would keep it off your deck and out of the cockpit as well

[@ericstill9102]

That would make a great bait bucket for sure

[@labtrainer09]

Hey, Lawson. Having fished coastal waters for almost 60 years in all sorts of boats, I COMPLETELY agree with your approach that "simple is better." I also congratulate you on bucking the trend and going with a 60-h.p. outboard on the new Explor 18. It'll go a great job for you both in speed and fuel economy. But-of course-a lot of people are going to tell you that you need at least 115 h.p. on this hull. Nonsense. Keep the faith, Chris

[@Cookerab]

Ive got a 17 maverick master angler with a 140 zuke and often wish it was a little smaller. 60 is kind of a sweet spot. The once nice thing is the master angler is super beamy and if it gets really bad you usually dont get soaked and can handle some surprisingly large waves.

[@brian953994]

Spend the money and get a stainless steel prop. One sand bar or oyster bed and that aluminum one will be done. From experience I know keep that one in the boat as a spare with a prop wrench and run the stainless steel one and you will never be stranded because of running a ground in skinny water.

[@josephnevers4486]

Glad to see you back in a boat. I look forward to every video, and always loved watching your video while fishing out of the Hewes. Congrats on the new boat.

[@heneken67]

Keep a beach umbrella that will fit on your rod holders and some paracord to tie it down so you have a little available shade for the dog and for when the family goes out with you.It goes on and off easy and will keep you out of the sun in resting breaks.love the boat...

[@KendallBos-ek6pv]

Recently bought an x18. Great flats boat/ skiff and nice fit and finish. The 60 ct is definitely the way to go with the larger gears which create better torque and matched with the mercury spitfire x7 prop, it performs really well for a almost 19’ boat with a 60 hp engine. Fuel efficiency and performance without the sacrifice on either side. I run 33 in calm conditions and add some slight chop and it gets better while trimming out completely which again is because of the giant 4 blade prop. Turning moderately hard at 15-20 mph it bites hard with zero washout from the prop. Chop and larger boat wakes aren’t an issue as long as you use proper methods of handling the vessel, wether that be overtaking or coming into a boats wake. The spray rails are a great design. In windy conditions yeas you may get a little spray but nothing compared to %90 of the 0-5 degree dead rise boats out there. Also this boat is a tiller model with seating for four at least and is rated for up to 6 people or 1400 lbs. try that on a 90k maverick. As you can tell I can’t be more pleased with my purchase and I got it for under 30k with 5 hours (test drives) on it and 2022 model in 2023. With new aluminum magic tilt trailer. Deals are out there. Just gotta be persistent and keep looking

[@bobwalters6543]

I keep my cast net in my 5 gal bucket. I bought a 10 gal white trash can for a live well when I fish with live bait. Works great.

[@michaelbellinger4188]

So excited for you! I know it’s been difficult since you changed and moved away from your sponsors. Broke my hart to see how upset you were! Looking forward to some new posts with that new boat! Blessings on that new vessel and your family!

[@snookman9920]

Enjoy the new skiff. I agree 100% about KISS. I have a Yellowfin 24 CE and I overbuilt it. When I get my skiff I’m even skipping the stereo since they fail frequently and there are waterproof BT speakers that sound great and don’t kill your house battery.

[@augusttbryan]

Currently have a bay boat build in progress, what would you recommend to not cause overbuild?

[@snookman9920]

@@augusttbryan 1) radio - length of whip based on use, or just use a handheld 2) stereo - what are your real needs. People overdo stereos/speakers and the head units tend to fail due to water intrusion 3) I have a tarpon tower - I wouldn’t include the upper MFD 4) Power poles - do you really need them or will you be drifting or using trolling motor spot lock 5) trolling motor - many people oversize it with three batteries and then rarely use it. Batteries = weight 6) MFDs - many people oversize their MFD or install multiples. You can split most screens and really don’t need two 7) sounders - side vision and 3D sound neat but if you are doing a lot of shallow water fishing or just day boating they aren’t that helpful 8) head - the wives love them but rarely use them. Get a bucket, a bucket toilet seat and a poncho. 9) covers - these are critical if you keep the boat outside but not if you dry rack inside. If outside, definitely cover the console, electronics and seats. A full cover is a waste. 9) charger - make sure the boat has a great charger (like Minnkota) that will charge multiple batteries. The Dauntless 24s did not have a charger AT ALL and I had to add one after the boat was delivered. Ridiculous. 10) Underwater lighting - cool, but an expensive, seldom used option. 11) Czone - my boat came with czone for controlling all electrical components but honestly it’s overkill when simple switches on the dash work fine. For me, the biggest game changers were 1) the trolling motor (I fish a lot) and it is invaluable for fish near shore wrecks. No more anchoring! 2) well designed electrical system, including charger, ACR and easy to access panel 3) reliable, efficient engine with advanced diagnostics. 4) SeaDek - a real back saver I recommend reducing the sizzle (infrequently used sh*t that can break) and focus on the steak (engine, hull, SeaDek and trolling motor if you fish). I splurged and got an autodeploy trolling motor - there are a ton of haters but it is critical if you have a tarpon tower because you can self-deploy when up top). I hope this helps.

[@Everydayfishing]

Awesome man! Excited to see more videos out of the new boat. Love the simple approach... its easy to get wrapped up into electronics, live sonar, big motors, etc. But its great when you get back to basics, enjoy the outdoors, and catch some fish.

[@SBFishing]

That boat is awesome, love the simplicity of it. That power puck is pretty sweet.

[@robertmealey3238]

Congratulations on the new boat. It sure is a big improvement over the tin can, and I think it will be more versatile than the Hewes was.

[@sticky59]

Great to see and learn about your new fishing vessel bro. Good times ahead indeed !

[@destintofail9092]

That is a perfect boat for the way you fish. Looking forward to more great fishing videos 🤘

[@KendallBos-ek6pv]

Enjoy watching your videos. Well produced. Keep catchin em.

[@otdag9376]

As always my dawg Lawson here with another banger!!! Awesome video bro, keep it up man.

[@ronbutler1606]

Nice...without knowing it you imparted alot of info and advice for first time boat buyers...nicely done...

[@Velcrostraps91]

Awesome man! Congratulations. Proud to see this come up since your detachment and the bass boat drama. Well deserved. 🤙

[@tombrown7577]

That is a nice boat for sure. I hear it's a little pricey for a bare bones boat but it's a well built boat. My brother and I fished for many years without electronics in a 16 Johnsen skiff with a 25 mercury and we slayed the fish. A lot of the reason I think because they sit very low to the water and the fish don't se you when fishing 4 feet or less. I do admit, my first trolling motor seemed like heaven!

[@jamesrivera6916]

Congratulations on your new boat good to see you again

[@rodconner9079]

For me --- what you do or how you do it and with what (or even at all!) is 100% up to you! Love what ya put out -- it's the content ... sponsored or not. I'm happy for ya --- as long as ya make yourself and family happy, that's enough for me. I hope the new ride does what ya want it to. I'm all for it. Always wishing the bestest. Be Safe

[@jayjohnson9668]

I would say the only things I like on a boat like that would be to add a trolling motor Power Poles and maybe a small live well.😎

[@Eric.Estrada]

The bucket is for anchor system while tarpon fishing. However, you can put a thrashcan lid on there and use it as a trash can.

[@Fishstycz]

Simple is definitely better... I'm against too much dedicated space, I like flexibility for different style trips. The electronics will hopefully get you into lots of new and unknown waters... Sweet ride bro and thanks for the walkthru.

[@ScottieFindsFish]

reminds me alot of my scout sportfish 175. sweet boat Lawson!

[@nickjardone6783]

What a proper boat man... can't wait to see all of the new content with it!

[@laurachristie4362]

Excited to see what's to come in the new boat!

[@ryanvanliew6910]

I love this channel. Keep doing what you do 👍

[@coindealer3309]

Congrats Lindsey!!!

[@JCInshore]

Talk about a gen 1 mic. But for real, congrats on the new water whip. Looking forward to what cinematic masterpieces you create on ol girl. Keep em coming.

[@garyritterstrings]

I have owned my ActionCraft 1720 with a 115 Yamah 4 stroke for 20 years . I just put a brand new VMax 115 Yamaha 4 stoke on it. What a difference. 35 pounds lighter, more torque and high end speed. Completely re- engineered. Wow.

[@jimmymiata7855]

Very nice skiff

[@aaronturner3258]

I build these boat they are awesome and one of the best out there for the money

[@jamesfreddyc]

Remembering my flats skiff days, I always wished I had a backrest for the seating.

[@straightouttajupiter]

Nice spot to hold a bucket with cast net in it

[@jarodwaldman3303]

Simple is the way to go. Always awesome vids. 👍🤘👍

[@budgregory8493]

Nice boat, know you will enjoy. Did I see built in bow lights?

[@Nicoandy01]

Sweet boat, put an aerator on your bucket, instant live well!

[@wtkuehne]

Congratulations!!

[@paulcurry6223]

Beautiful boat

[@archull]

Just to let you know you should always keep the pointed section of your push pole facing the rear, the foot section always faces forward so it can not slip out the back of your pole holder.

[@Carnivorefitness2024]

Nice boat, that trolling motor mount system is interesting, cant believe no live well, but other than that its a sweet setup.

[@kingzsnipez]

How quiet is the hull when poling compared to the Hewes our redfisher hull slaps like crazy with even minor wind

[@maxmarmol1043]

Beautiful boat Lawson!! Simplicity is best!! K.I.S.S. Keep It Simple Stupid 🤙🏽 Looking forward to the fishing you’ll be doing!! Cheers!

[@eboy8413]

Congrats on the new toy. Enjoy my dog

[@jackchn23]

Congratulations! On ward and up ward!

[@kylepool7054]

Get the lid for the bucket and you can use it as a step!

[@edwardbranch3520]

Boat looks really nice!

[@dylancorsiatto7231]

Sell the Garmin and Get a Simrad with the FMT chip (Florida Marine Tracks). Sweet boat!!

[@jackstaton8988]

I remember watching the original hewes video you took down where we were introduced to “lil peeny” this brings back memories

[@fooballyou]

I have a Mako Pro Skiff 15 which has a live well. Which I don't use. Because it has never worked since I bought the boat new. They say design problem....maybe I should have bought a boat without a live well.

[@TheFishingMommy]

there’s a guy in St Augustine who fixed his Mako live well problem-apparently it’s an airlock issue. His youtube name is Get Out The House Go Fish 😅

[@fooballyou]

@@TheFishingMommy Thank you, I have seen a # of fixes. Just shouldn't have to modify a new boat to make it work.

[@johnnevin7759]

I recommend a wind screen on console to hide behind when hauling butt in rain.

[@hunterpritchard6]

Love the boat! I noticed you mentioned that you’re looking for a push pole. I got a 20 foot carbon fiber moonlighter I’d be willing to give to ya. I’m located in Okeechobee. Lmk mate👍🏻.

[@miketavares8917]

Congrats!

[@devinowens8721]

How do you feel about power poles? Since you do a lot of skinny water fishing it would be a good add on.

[@gladesfishing]

Lawson/Jacob you guys have to do a multi-day trip to Flamingo. That would be so 😎

[@Doodsaplenty]

nice boat man!

[@Carnivorefitness2024]

Let me know if you start getting a noise from the motor, I have the same one, it started making scary noise, turned out to be the prop making a hell of a racket, 2 dealers couldnt figure it out, but my buddy regular mechanic figured it out, put a spacer in it, there was a ton of slop in the prop.

[@ManRod555]

Had a new 60 merc as well about a year ago. Never really made noise but it did have a ton of slop in the prop as well.

[@Carnivorefitness2024]

@@ManRod555 They said it's normal to have slop on it, it was a horrifying sound on a new motor, I thought the lower unit was shot, going through the warranty route with 2 different boat shops and they couldn't figure it out was pissing me off very badly 🙄

[@ManRod555]

@@Carnivorefitness2024 i had only noticed from changing props twice to 2 different stainless steel variations til i found the right one (which was a massive difference) cause when i would grab the prop it could just freely move forward and backward on the prop shaft like a mf

[@reelgangsta1851]

Simple is better. Boat looks amazing. Keep slaying !

[@danieldolph5297]

Great boat man don't really need live well bc u use lures, however if u ever dona bass tournament u won't have a live well to keep your catch but man I think the boat is great

[@thelareaucrew8869]

Congrats! Super nice. If you don’t mind sharing, what was the cost for say the exact same or similar rig?

[@Mike.Asams770]

Nice boat man

[@fabiansolis9060]

I can’t wait to see you fish again bro

[@MrSandyBruce]

Funny you mentioned Matt I just told him he needs to get down to you for a visit. He agreed.

[@gregormiller4037]

Nice rig. Lookin' forward to a new fish wrap :)

[@Evan721sxm]

still got a brand new trolling motor at a discount if you want it...

[@ExSTPD]

Congratulations

[@TylerDavis7384]

Or you going with a minnkota or motor guide trolling motor

[@wakeboy3]

looking at basically the same boat. what performance do you get out the Merc 60. are yoy still enjoying the boat

[@davidl7983]

Safety equipment, Life jacket and radio

[@Biscayneboy]

Fire things first, get rid of those garbage clarion speakers and get JL’s , next get a power pole or two and your set

[@abeaviles3060]

Nice 👍 boat

[@mileswilliams2587]

Bucket is for fly line

[@benjaminbradway4037]

Only the OG’s remember Lil Peeny and the Hewes review.

[@MrGreencheez]

The bucket is for a cast net

[@waynepollard7823]

Do you think you will head offshore for some deep sea fishing in it?

[@anotherezone7891]

Can a family of 5 fit? Two adults and three children weight 500/550. Wondering the cost, and weight /person limit?

[@michaelmarks8954]

To keep the corrosion at bay get a product called fluid-film there are different viscosity’s it’s a product Naval Aviation uses.🇺🇸🇨🇦🇺🇸

[@h2ofishing776]

What’s it like compared to the Hewes?

[@kpocala1061]

Might not be a good idea to store your tackle next to the gas tank. Salt Strong did a podcast about what fish smell, check it out sometime. Sweet boat btw

[@chadoliver8841]

Good looking boat! I also agree with keeping it simple or K.I.S.S. "keep it simple stupid" lol

[@chrisdravez6837]

Price

[@bigguavaflyfishing]

Im thinking of putting a 4 blade on my hewes. I find right now I need at least 2.5 feet of water for a hole shot, does the 4 blade really make that much of a difference?

[@michaelberry2872]

Yes sir!!

[@WeDoThings1991]

Performance with the 60hp?

[@redfishroger1982]

How about two power poles.

[@davide3129]

Time for an updated review of the boat now that you have used it for 2 years, would be interesting

[@MSB.6.7C]

Real ones remember the first boat tour -lil Peeny

[@yota4004]

nice boat, glad to see you in a skiff again. no way you are going to get anywhere near 5" draft though in a 19 ft boat. my 16ft waterman won't do that. probably 8 or 9" though which is all you need. having a 60 on it does help with draft.

[@rainnants]

the tiller drafts 5

[@ronirby5842]

GPS controlled trolling motor

[@dannyd-rockmahaffey3087]

My Dawg!!!

[@rodneyjacoby5788]

I like a bear bones ride like that That you can add to on your own as you want What's a base price for a boat like that.

[@JenkinsB]

Get some talons!

[@MrNooner319]

The KISS Method Keep it simple stupid. Nothing wrong with that. Good luck with the new boat.

[@bayouburner281]

MY DAWGSS

[@wills2397]

WHAT IS UP MAH DAWWWWWWGS

[@peternguyen9602]

put a 115 on it

[@langstonoxendine7932]

😂😂

[@ant5020]

We need a lil peeny walk through!

[@josephnevers4486]

Do not respond to the reply saying you're selected as a winner it is a scam. It is not Lawson.