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*This article appeared in the December 2007 Issue of Game & Fish Magazine.
When the Stratos 176XT hit the market in late summer 2006, it
exploded onto the fishing scene by giving anglers everywhere a less
expensive, more stable and longer-lasting alternative to aluminum
boats. Now, the XT line has been expanded with the 2008 Stratos 186XT, giving anglers even more space and power for under $17,000.
New for 2008, the Stratos 186XT is an 18-foot, 9-inch boat that
feels and fishes like a 20-footer. The additional 15-inches of space
is added to the front deck of the boat, giving it the same fishing
space of most 20-foot bass boats, plus the added convenience of
features like recessed trolling motor pedals and a 7-foot, 6-inch
center rod locker. Completely rigged with a 90-horsepower outboard,
40-pound Minn Kota trolling motor, Humminbird electronics, and Road
Armor-Equipped trailer, this is the most accessible - and roomiest -
18-foot boat in its class, meaning anglers don't have to sacrifice big
money for big fishing space.
The added length of the 186XT also gives it a wider beam, making it
rated for a maximum 115 horsepower - more than enough power to get
anglers to their favorite holes in a hurry.
The 186XT's combination of features, value, and fishability has been
a long time coming for serious bass anglers and local tournament
competitors who want a new rig without breaking the bank. Available
with a wide range of factory-rigged outboards, new features on this
boat include the added convenience of a lid assist on the center rod
locker, a boarding ladder, Road Armor Equipped trailer constructed of
4-inch trailer framing and Humminbird PiranhaMax 215 electronics
standard at the console.
All the features that serious anglers have come to expect in a
fishing boat are present on the Stratos 186XT: spacious rear deck,
aerated livewell, on-board battery charger, power tilt and trim,
running rod rack, tackle storage boxes, and custom-matched upholstery
on the three-across, fold-down bench seat are all standard, as well as
a fit and finish that most anglers expect to pay well over $20,000 to
have.
Color packages for the Stratos XT line in 2008 include red gel coat,
blue gel coat, Black Onyx polyflake, and Gunmetal polyflake, each with
a white deck cap.
STRATOS 186XT
Overall Length: 18' 9"
Beam: 89"
Maximum Horsepower: 115
Fuel Capacity: 23 gallons
Total Person, Motor, Gear: 652 pounds
Length on Trailer with Swing-Away Tongue Open: 20'1"
Stratos Boats are built with 100 percent composite construction to
provide maximum performance and comfort. Every Stratos Boat is backed
by a limited lifetime warranty on the hull. Each boat is produced with
a high-quality CP Armorcote gel coat finish - made to withstand the
elements. For information visit www.stratosboats.com.
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