aluminum boats

[imported_Anonymous]

i am looking at boats to fish mostly inshore in the carolinas. i like the aluminum boats with their durability and low maintenance. is there any manufacturer that is making a self-bailing aluminum boat or is one on the horizon? i was told crestliner has one in the testing stages but was told this by a salesperson and havent been able to confirm this.
thanks
j p timberlake

[imported_Anonymous]

Try www.quintrexboats.com

[imported_Anonymous]

Take a look at Pangamarine.com, they make a light but rugged 22 foot boat that is a fly fising dream. In shore or off shore, only needs 8 inches of water and is affordable

[imported_Anonymous]

DuraCraft makes a line of alumin bay boats .. can't remember if they are self bailing

[imported_Anonymous]

Self bailing requires that the deck be above the water line. While this is typical on very large boats, it is not on small fishing boats. I use a Ranger aluminum which is all welded, has bilge pumps I have converted to automatic, and is almost leak proof (no rivets). While the fore fishing deck is above the waterline, water just rolls into the main area where it spills into the bilge. I would not want the main deck above the water line. That low center of gravity comes in handy on some days.

[imported_Anonymous]

I have a 1756DLX G3 center console w/60hp Yamaha and it's perfect for inshore flats and backwaters. The decking is marine grade vinyl for easy maintenance. Not self bailing but stays dry. I've also installed auto bilge pumps.

[imported_Anonymous]

Try http://www.stanleyboats.ca/index2.htm

[imported_Anonymous]

Then if you want real heavy duty try:www.blacklabmarine.com/index.html

[Chuck Scheerschmidt]

I have a 17 ft Grumman and love it but will be installing an auto bail as it sits low in the back and takes on water here and there. As soon as I get the indoor/outdoor carpeting up and something vinyl down it will be the cat's meow for flats. Right now running a 70 horse but will be dropping to a 35 to lighten up that back end.