Unveiling My New Fishing Boat with Honest Opinions

Unveiling my new fishing boat for crappie, bass & catfish and my honest opinions about the the boat, motor, electronics and trailer.
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[@justinbarnes2606]

I hope you keep the crispy collector way more people can relate to a cheap jon boat than a expensive ass bass boat

[@TjTaylor4706]

Yeeeeah, I was loving the jon boat content

[@MaryBrownForFreedom]

I fished for years from an Alumacraft T14... 13 1/2 feet long 4'3" wide... weighed 110 pounds empty... had a 15hp Johnson on it and with just me in the boat no problem hitting 28mph... back foot of the hull and the motor was all that was in the water... awesome shallow water river boat, I bounced that thing off rocks, trees, mud bars... tough little boat. Sold it 15 years ago, my back said no more to being bounced all over on the water!

[@seththompson1042]

You can get decent bass boats that aren’t ass expensive

[@marcuslarwa9098]

I can’t understand why anyone would spend 80-100k on a bass boat. Maybe because I fish for stripers and would get a way over boat for the same price point but even if I didn’t I’d never spend that much. Like you said those Jon boats are nice and seem good enough for any lake or river. These days the equipment seems to be the most important not the boat.

[@killazftw]

It’s nice to see both, one to set goals, one for relatability

[@tjetter]

Man thank you for still be a fisherman’s fisherman. Fishing or fun and adventures we all can relate to you. Way to stay grounded. We appreciate ya

[@MTV0220]

Welcome to the Vexus family! Owner of a 2022 AVX 1880 here. I love my Vexus. I think you will be happy with your purchase. P.S. When I bought mine, the dealership did a lake test with me and suggested the top of the side rails of the trailer be 2" above the water. I believe that's why you had a hard time loading it. You just had the trailer too far in the water, that's all. Have fun out there with your new boat and be safe!

[@davethomas97]

I have the AVX 1980 and I love this boat. One thing I did notice is you were a little too deep with the trailer. I back mine to where the finder wells are above the water about 2 inches and 1/3 rd of my rails are out of the water. This allows me to use the trailer rails to guide the boat on to the trailer centered. Also my center rod box has my soft plastics which adds a lot of weight to the nose and sets the nose on my trailer and does not lift up. I know you will love this boat as I do. Love your show buddy. Keep them coming!

[@mjsbowl300]

This is your answer LFG! Keep that trailer shallow.

[@devinwillis7787]

How dry do you find it rides? I have the ranger 198 and in any waves over maybe mid knee you get totally soaked

[@shelbymcelroy4525]

Love the look of the Vexus!

[@awwjr29]

Just raise the mount up to match the natural trailer location of the bow. They are almost always adjustable. Even if you have to get it cut and rewelded.

[@demurphy72]

I've had a AVX 1980 for almost 2 years now. Not that I've had alot of time in a glass boat but I've been real happy with it.

[@abs353]

Sir, that's my dream boat. I strongly believe that's the most well-built boat on the market. Congrats

[@501Panfishing]

Welcome to the Vexus family. I had a 2019 Vexus 1880 and traded it in for the 2023 Vexus 1980c. You purchased a great boat!!!!!

[@seanlawrence972]

Glad to see this, congrats on the new ride

[@bigrednhairy]

Welcome to the Venus family. They are great company and a great boat!!!

[@zackareyfox2516]

Awesome adventure LFG. keep them coming! Congrats on the boat take that baby girl fishing!

[@user-gt8fm3ro1y]

Been waiting for this all week

[@GodWillzIt]

That is one awesome boat. Thanks for sharing

[@Big_Mike72]

I’ve had my AVX2080 for 2 years now and absolutely love it. I too upgraded my electronics including the batteries since purchasing the boat. It is lighter than a fiberglass boat and wind plays an issue at times. I’ve also learned not to back my trailer so far into the water. I back all the way down to wet the bunks, then I pull forward to where the rear bump boards (side tenders) are exposed. That will help with side slipping while loading. Hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine.

[@kneufeld12]

She’s breathtaking❤️

[@yvlopez77]

I will agree with the one person that commented that yes the trailer was a lil too much in, I always put my top of the fenders and works just fine 👏🙌🤙🏼 nice boat!!! Justin

[@MaryBrownForFreedom]

Common up here are guide posts on the back of the trailer to help center in windy conditions. In MN you see way more aluminum fishing boats...

[@Badkharma21]

lol can’t wait to see your adventures in the new rig

[@rayhollingsworth2588]

Nice boat!! Congratulations 👍 Sniff on!

[@atoutdoors4649]

Congratulations on the new boat. Cant wait to see all the content from it

[@Gonzo1968]

Love it! Multi species aluminum is the way to go! I have aluminum bass/ crappie/ catfish as well! Congrats!

[@Holdmyber]

Congrats man! Can’t wait for the upgrades and customization!

[@patshively6094]

Congrats, now the fun begins building your new boat the way you want it.

[@theINQBS]

For the way the nose wants to rise when fully seated not he trailer, simply adjust it. There are 2 things to need to do to get it to sit how you want it and like you, I like my boat to fully SIT on all points on my trailer so it's fully supported. Raise the bunks a bit (most bunks can be raised a bit) and the front D-Ring should then clear the roller so the front of the hull is supported. Then the down strap can be moved forward to help secure it on that roller. And also, change that crappy roller to the clear one in a slightly larger size, which although a bit stiffer, it protects the boat better and provide a larger area that both helps when loading it back on and better supports the hull while running down the road. Stoked for you sir! I'm currently looking for a late 90's Stratos 201 ProXL… THEEEEE Best bass boat ever made!!! I will strip it down and restore it to fresh out of the factory condition!!!

[@taegerprofishing]

Absolutely Correct in the Status of the late 90s Stratos ! Before Earl Bentz ruined the hull design in the year 2000…

[@clifffrazier4696]

Congrats Justin on the new boat!

[@scottgarber7363]

I fish a Ranger rt 178 aluminum. Boat changed my life!

[@mmancino1982]

Was in my buddy's Vexus 21' aluminum recently. Fell in love with it. Rides great, gets in pass super quick and is more agile than my boat (2016 Skeeter FXi21)

[@krisramos7453]

First owner ate the depreciation for you. A few small repairs and the electronics you want and you’ll have your perfect boat. I just bought a 2021 z19 with a 200 ProXS this past November. Drove 1000 miles to go get it and 1000 miles back. I was nervous taking it out the first time like you were. Can’t exactly return it. I got it dialed in now and she’s catching big ones. Enjoy.

[@jasonconrad215]

I’ve got a 2020 Z-18 and love it! The trailer not quite as much have you noticed any issues with either the boat or trailer? I’ve got a little over 100 hours on the engine

[@krisramos7453]

Just had a hub turn into greasy baby powder so I replaced it and had the other 3 re packed. Full brake service and 4 new tires. The trailer creaks around quite a bit but I know there’s some solutions for that. I have no idea how many miles the trailer has so I can’t be mad. 270+ hours on my 200 I have to get a vessel view and get the exact number. So far on the boat just preventative maintenance and one bad fuse since I’ve owned it.

[@kirkallen1246]

Great Looking boat!!

[@foshoitzdanny]

Congrats on the new boat!

[@Three-13]

I've enjoyed watching you rock out of the Crispy Collector but beyond excited to see you back in a bigger boat! Looks like the Vexus checks most all of the boxes.

[@marqueandbrandon3249]

Sick boat, man!! Anxious ro watch your cosmetic repairs. Love the channel.

[@mikethetoolman8776]

great little rig for small lakes

[@michaelgallagher9060]

Congratulations on your new boat.

[@timf1095]

Appreciate the vid, beginning to gather my thoughts on what kind of boat I want to get for myself so this is great timing. Multi species Texas boy as well. Look forward to watching it get upgraded and worked on.

[@farwellfishing]

I absolutely love my AVX 2080!! Also with my 2022, i have my middle bunks just out of the water and it loads fine every single time!

[@carlyleyang9658]

Love the new Boat!!!

[@hunteroutdoorsTV]

Looks good and runs good! I think it will be a keeper for years to come brother! Congrats

[@justinpootin4021]

I like it definitely would set up some sorta seats up front for crappie fishing and to help with weight distribution

[@paulphelps8256]

Good morning brother justin. I have been a subscriber, enjoying your escapades, for years. I have recently found out that I have an anterior cranial fossa meningioma. I saw how you went through the diagnosis, surgery and recovery to continue to lead an awesome outdoor life. You inspire me to keep a positive mental attitude. Keep doing what you do. Best to all.

[@rivfisheslakes]

awesome! i just bought my first bass boat i can’t wait to get out there

[@FishingColton12244]

Awesome boat bro can’t wait to see more vids on it. Congratulations. 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@robpaschal8499]

I fish out of a 95 16' seaArk. iPilot, 50hp Johnson, and a T-bar. Best FISHING boat I've ever been in.

[@TehDFC]

Is it multi-species capable?

[@javancross6085]

Get a Drotto. It makes boat retrieval a snap even in current and wind. I won't have a boat without one.

[@bobbybowens8564]

I fish the missouri and Mississippi rivers alot and love the dorotto in high current makes boat ramp time almost nonexistant

[@bonesdc1]

Great boat

[@patricksutton6449]

When I had my 2019 Vexus 2080, I loved it and thinking about getting another in the future. When trailering, I always kept fenders about 1/2 out of the water. It was the easiest boat to trailer that I have owned. I also had an issue with the nose on the trailer. I was able to adjust the position of the wench stand and don't remember it being an issue after that. Those are just my 2 cents. Love the boat! Congratulations on a great buy!

[@kevinwaller9470]

It's a great boat ,keep fishing.

[@shaunroberts9361]

You own this boat #1. #2 You can put what you want on it. I think you did great.

[@colbyhester7348]

Dude! A Vexus?!?! That’s amazing! They are phenomenal boats!

[@soulmolasses33]

Heck yeah man i like the new boat. You can upgrade the electronics and deck material in time. The important thing is that the kids will feel more comfortable and confident in it. Looking forward to seeing what you get into next.

[@joshtadlock3827]

Congrats on the new whip!

[@BackwoodsZ71]

Nice rig and a fair price . Good find

[@TodayWeFish]

I agree 100% with you about the Lund boats! They are great boats and are built to last. I own a 2020 1875 Crossover XS with 150HP Mercury ProXS, and I have to tell you, this boat is awesome for fishing and have a great time with the family out on the water. It is very light weight, respectively, and can be towed with my Volvo XC90, it has enough space for me and my fishing buddies, and great for a family of 5 + the dog. But in the end, it is all about your needs and what works best for you. Congratulation on your new Silver Bullet!! By the way, keep the videos coming, I love your vibe!

[@flyfishmerc]

I'm a used boat guy period. A quality well kept used boat is the way to go IMO LFG. Nice job finding the rig you want for the way you roll.

[@jonnygranville281]

I like the scratches on the trailer. Gives it character

[@larrystolzman9337]

Thanks LFG. I’ve had the same aluminum boat (Crestliner) for 22 years. With care your Vexus will last as long. Like most big changes you’ll need time to get comfortable with your new boat. In time you won’t remember fiberglass. You mentioned cost. Major bass boats are amazing, but how many young families can drop $100K for very part time use. Please continue to use this opportunity to teach everyone about keeping costs reasonable and enjoyment high. This is a great way to take your family fishing and help them in other financial ways as they get older. They will love you for it!

[@tatertots-n-soup]

One of the first welded hulls. What the 3rd year? After they fixed the bad powerheads

[@davidleto1223]

Love it bro!

[@justinpootin4021]

Definitely a nice one I was looking at one online

[@nathanmorrow9951]

I have an Avid. Love it!

[@RogerBankerFishmiser]

Vexxus are awesome boats! Ranger boats created the company after all.

[@5thscaleripper]

For your aluminum boat, I recommend Ramp N Clamp !! Takes the weight off from the eyelet ! Also makes loading and unloading a one-man operation

[@douglasjones3930]

Nice boat! It suits you.

[@kalecastaneda]

It’s the xl crispy collector lol! I really enjoyed watching you in the Jon boat. Way more relatable. I don’t enjoy watching someone on a 100,000 rig just live scoping but you brought back the entertainment and I hope don’t go away!

[@danaaccola8342]

nice to see that you upgraded the crispy

[@brianhuffstutler6837]

Nice boat you will enjoy it

[@jacobpippin8559]

I’m glad to see someone I like watching does a review and gets a vexus it’s the same boat I’m looking to upgrade to I have a older 1987 glasstream which I really like it’s been completely redone but time for upgrade

[@kevinloper6551]

Congrats on the new Silver Bullet! 😎

[@kevinbuie5144]

Nice boat I’m going with xpress GOD bless you and your family keep up the great vids

[@Wacky_fisherman]

I have a 1980 with the g2. Love it. Mk2 designs make a bunch of stuff for vexus. I ripped out my port side tubes out and made it open so i can fit all my rods.

[@robertdupre7493]

Love it you and Rob both have aluminum boats I’ve been wanting an xpress x19 with the mercury 200 and sea deck is a must I want to bring my boys crabbing and jug line fishing carpet is not ideal!!

[@ryantabberer]

I like it man. You gotta do it with what you've got to do it with. And this will do you nicely. My aluminum boat has come with plenty of quirks but it's the boat I have and when it gets me out on the water I can't complain about anything. Except that I don't get it out enough

[@crawlin2vgt]

Welcome to the Vexus family! Cool to see you in one. I have a 1980 and do wish I had a little more power for the size and a 2080 is only 4inches longer. Its a great riding boat that really does feel like a glass boat. Definitely make sure to hook the front winch on before pulling out just to be safe. Only thing i saw in the video was it looks like your trailer was too deep when loading. I back mine til the side guides are just at water level. gives me enough trailer to get on and not float around and then just power up the trailer a little. Best of luck in the new rig!

[@tyghtlines]

Nice boat!

[@ClayWilliamson]

That’s my lake! Cool boat too

[@jasonlechler577]

What lake is it

[@ClayWilliamson]

@@jasonlechler577 stillhouse hollow

[@mjsbowl300]

Great new boat LFG! With the aluminum boats, keep the trailer a bit more shallow, no need to back it all the way in. A lighter boat will allow you to load it easier. Keep making the great content!

[@fivekeepersfishing9050]

#1- she’s white lightning all day! #2- you put the trailer a little to deep for a good load. #3- you’ll have zero regrets! She’s close to perfect. #4- we all love merc because of the growl!!!

[@austin2590]

Great little lake where you're at!!! My home lake

[@leadballoon06]

I'm up here in the great lakes and Lund are a must up here. The deep v

[@royleeborn6445]

Congrats !

[@calvinh.8882]

I just have to say, At 1:06 those power company trucks were getting it! lol. It was like they just reserved a call saying they were off the clock and all the free steak and beer they could handle was waiting on them back at the yard. lol.

[@duanecalkins7432]

Great looking rig dude…

[@michaelross5674]

Nice rig bro .... I cannot wait till I get my boat

[@randybryant9936]

Nice boat ⛵

[@adrianalvarado7407]

Nice I got the 1980 with sea decking. Been a good boat so far. It's very agile

[@Be4orOnTwitch_]

Love the vids keep it up

[@woweeoi11]

Love to see it LFG

[@tylereubanksoutdoors491]

Nice fishing boat Justin

[@samtaylor6185]

My boat has the same boat ramp issues, I've learned that steeper ramps help because then the front of the trailer stays higher. Otherwise I have to just not back the trailer in as far, and just have to "slide" it up on the bunks for the last bit.

[@danielvelez4001]

Nice boat it’s awesome ❤❤😂😂

[@aztecSD88]

Real talk from LFG. Good stuff man

[@nickjohnson2207]

I have a 2022 AVX 2080 and no real complaints. I took out the port side rod tubes and used an MK2 designs Port Rod Boot to cover the aluminum then added plastic sheeting to the bottom so my rod tips don't get hung up. I can get 8' swimbait rods in there and I have had 26 rods and reels in the port side after doing that work. MK2 design has a tackle organizer for the center compartment and a bilge tray I use as well. If you have any questions about wiring/mounts let me know, we wired mine with a house battery and 2 lithium trolling motor batteries. I hope you enjoy the Vexus as much as I do.

[@geoffbohartfishing]

Awesome content man! I found your channel watching Jon B and am glad I did! I just started a Fishing Channel in Kentucky and I use a 17 aluminum flatbottom I also fish for Crappie, Catfish, and all species of bass from mine and love it for lakes and medium/small rivers. It is a little rough but she runs MINT 👌

[@jeremystearns6518]

Whatever fits your needs. I can't wait to see all the mods

[@centexbasser]

I wonder if you can adjust the bunk boards on the trailer to drop the nose some. Love the Vexus though I'd love to have something similar. Glad you got a big boat again can't wait to see the personalizing and finished product.

[@mattcole9022]

I have a lund also up north love it !

[@dustincampbell2900]

Nice boat

[@larrymoore6904]

I want to go fishing in your new boat lol good looking boat

[@AlaconTV]

Nice boat, I have the same one!

[@stanb915]

Congrats on the new boat, FYI I think that was my red truck with Skeeter trailer in the parking lot 😆. The water has come up to 100% full since the rain. Enjoy hope to see you out there slaying them!

[@johnhanley8708]

very nice!