aluminum vs glass

[goose89]

I know this has probably been hashed over in the past, but I'm looking for info from those who've owned BOTH aluminum AND glass boats for their opinions and experiences (negative and positive) . I don't want to start a negative / mine's better than your's thread, just some honest observations of those who have experience with both. Thanks in advance.

[goose89]

anyone, anyone??? just general opinions and advice appreciated. Thanks, again, in advance.

[Mid-Lake Rock]

Post some information on where you fish and what you are fishing for. There are certain situations where all I would want is an aluminum, others where glass is the way to go, and many situations where I think it comes down to personal preference. The debate always seems to come down to which rides better, which one holds better in the wind, speed, and durability. If you are shopping, good luck. There are some great aluminum and great glass boats on the market.

[Smeds]

I've just recently switched over from glass to aluminum. I had a 2001 Warrior V177 Falcon Side Console / Honda BF135, now I run an Alumacraft Navigator 175 tiller with a Yamaha F75. I would have to say the glass boat was a much better ride when it was really rough out, but under a small to medium chop ... don't notice much difference. The tin boat also seems to catch the wind at the bow a little more than the glass boat did, but then again, the Warrior took waves over the front when trolling forward in some decent seas, and the Alumacraft doesn't. Most glass boats sit lower in the water, I believe that's the reason. I know that most glass boats don't have much of a beam until you get deep in the wallet, that's one of the reasons I went tin ... the Alumacraft tiller has a dance floor for an interior! I also was always leery of taking the Warrior to Canada (Lac Seul) when we took our annual trip. A glass boat is not very shore-lunch friendly, even with a keel guard (which my boat had). And forget it if you hit anything at speed, a hole in fiberglass is not a nice bill to pay. I now take the Alumacraft to Canada, and couldn't be happier. I fish big water quite often, and am not at all displeased with the ride of the Alumacraft. Granted, I'm going a lot slower now ... that may have something to do with it. Going from a wheeled boat to a tiller was the biggest change; more "fishable" space = more wind and a sometimes wet ride. Hope all this rambling helped you out a little!

[goose89]

Thanks for the reply. Keep the advice coming. I fishing primarily bass and walleyes on mid-sized lakes. Mille Lacs,Leech occasionally, but I do like to fish in the wind as much as possible. The mentioned experiences have helped. Keep them coming.