Stratos 386XF

[BigWadeS]

Does anyone have first hand experience with this boat? How does it handle and how is the ride in it? Also is a 115hp on it enough or should it have a 150hp?

[thebman]

I've had my 2005 since new and am very happy with the boat. From family fun to 4 big guys and gear it rides and handles well. A 115 on a 386XF will be way underpowered. I run a Suzuki 140 and would not go less, a 150 would be better. I've got my 140 dialed in well and it works great for what I use it for. I've actually never seen a 386 with a 115, the 385 yes, but not a 386. Great boat for the price, not as nice as the Ranger but it is a quality boat that has held up really well for me.

[PerchJerker]

I have not been in the Stratos but I have a similar boat and I agree, a 115 would be WAY underpowered.

[BigWadeS]

thanks for the information, I hadn't seen the 115hp but also have been noticing underpowered boats to lower the cost. I know it isn't a Ranger, Skeeter, ect...but without first hand experience they seem to be very nice boats for fishing and family fun.

[PerchJerker]

I know a few guys that have that Stratos or similar Stratos boats and they are happy with them. The fiberglass gives a very nice ride, the layout is well designed, overall good boats for the money.

[bassNspear]

115 is way underpowered. They tried to do the same thing that Ranger did with there 1750 reata, and put a 115 yamaha on the back. The boat cant get out of its own wake!

[muskyhunter57]

I agree I own an underpowered Stratos. It is older with a 110 on 17'6" Zero holeshot. It could use a 150.

[bassNspear]

the boat is a new boat, but the worse thing is to be under powered!

[MuskieJunkie]

If you've ever owned an under powered boat you'll never make the mistake again.

Try to stay in the top 10% of the maximum rating is a good rule of thumb. (if a boat's rated for 150 you probably don't want to go less than 135)

[Pat K]

I have an '06 386XF with an F150 Yamaha. It handles rough water well and is a very dry ride. The fit and finish is not as good as a Ranger, but the Stratos price is much lower.

We are happy with the boat using it for fishing, cruising and fast water sports. I wouldn't want anything smaller than the 150hp. It's rated for 175hp so the 115hp is only 65% of the rated HP.