Mirrocraft Boats: Are They Worth The Hype?

MirroCraft is a well-known boat builder that offers a range of high-performance boats, including fishing, skiing, and cruising models. With a history dating back to 1956, the company has established itself as a quality aluminum boat builder, catering heavily to anglers with its jon boats and utility watercraft. The boats are built with attention to detail, comfort, and style, utilizing cutting-edge fabrication technology and innovative designs. The boats are equipped with features such as molded fiberglass consoles, stainless gauge bezels, ergonomic switches, and lighted gauges. MirroCraft boats are available in various series, including the Aggressor, Holiday, Dual Impact, and Outfitter models, with a range of lengths and propulsion systems to suit different needs. They are valued from $1,699 to $66,000, making them accessible to a wide range of buyers.

The history of MirroCraft boats

MirroCraft is a boat manufacturer that offers a full line of high-performance boats. The company was founded in 1956 when the Mirro Aluminum Company decided to build boats after noticing West Bend Aluminum's success in the marine industry. The first Mirro-Craft boat was launched in 1956, and the company adopted the name MirroCraft the following year.

The key distinction in the construction of MirroCraft boats is the use of lapstrake hulls, which provide increased strength, handling, and stability while reducing drag. The early line of MirroCraft boats ranged from a 10-foot pram to an 18-foot sport fisherman. The company's 14-foot Sportsman and 14-16 foot Runabouts were particularly popular. These boats were known for their rugged construction and were considered excellent "starter" family runabouts.

Over the years, MirroCraft has continued to innovate and improve its boat designs. They offer a range of boat models, including the Aggressor, Dual Impact, Holiday, Outfitter, Laker, and Utility V Series. These boats are designed for various activities such as competitive fishing, family skiing, cruising, and entertaining. MirroCraft boats are known for their quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and use of cutting-edge technology in the manufacturing process.

Today, MirroCraft boats are widely popular for Aluminum Fishing, Freshwater Fishing, Ski and Fish, and Utility models. The boats are well-suited for freshwater fishing, day cruising, and watersports due to their shallow draft and average beam. MirroCraft boats are highly regarded for their performance, comfort, and innovation, making them a popular choice for boating enthusiasts.

The range of MirroCraft boats

MirroCraft boats are manufactured in Wisconsin and are known for their quality craftsmanship and innovation. The company offers a full line of high-performance boats, catering to various lifestyles, including competitive fishing, family skiing, cruising, and all-round entertaining. The range of MirroCraft boats includes:

Aggressor Series

The Aggressor series is available in different lengths, with models such as the Aggressor 16' Pro X, Aggressor 17-18' Pro MX, and Aggressor 18-19' Pro X. These boats are designed for high performance and are equipped with features like stainless gauge bezels, accented gauge panels, ergonomic switches, lighted gauges, and a comfortable steering wheel.

Holiday Series

The Holiday series includes fishing models such as the Holiday 1768 Fish & Cruise, which is often paired with a Honda 4-Stroke EFI engine. This series offers a combination of fishing capabilities and cruising comfort.

Dual Impact Fish & Ski Series

The Dual Impact series combines fishing and watersports capabilities. Models like the Dual Impact 1766 and Dual Impact 176 showcase the versatility of these boats, suitable for both fishing and skiing activities.

Outfitter Series

The Outfitter series focuses on fishing, with models such as the 165 Outfitter, catering to anglers' needs.

Laker Series

The Laker series includes fishing boats designed for lake environments, as suggested by its name. Models like the 3673 Laker II are equipped with powerful outboard motors, making them ideal for fishing excursions on lakes.

Utility V Series

The Utility V series offers fishing models with a focus on utility and versatility. These boats are designed to provide a functional platform for fishing while also accommodating other on-water activities.

The price of MirroCraft boats

The price of a MirroCraft boat depends on its model, age, and specifications. As of January 2025, Boat Trader lists 37 MirroCraft boats for sale, with prices ranging from $1,699 to $66,000. The lowest price of $1,699 is for a 1999 model, while the highest price of $66,000 is for a 2024 model.

The power and performance of a MirroCraft boat also influence its price. Higher-performance models have motors up to 150 horsepower, while more modest models have engines as low as 20 horsepower. The average motor size for MirroCraft boats is 133 HP.

The size of the boat is another factor that affects its price. The smallest MirroCraft boat currently listed is 14 feet long, while the largest is 208 feet long, with an average length of 16.99 feet.

Some of the most popular MirroCraft models include the 1628, 1866 Dual Impact, Holiday 1768 Fish & Cruise, 14, and 14 Tiller. These models vary in price depending on their specifications and condition.

When purchasing a MirroCraft boat, it is essential to consider your intended use, such as freshwater fishing, day cruising, or watersports. The type of propulsion system and fuel system can also impact the price and suitability of the boat for your needs.

The design and manufacturing of MirroCraft boats

MirroCraft is a Wisconsin-based boat manufacturer that first entered the market in 1956. The company is known for its quality aluminum boats, catering heavily to anglers with its jon boats and utility watercraft. In addition, the MirroCraft line-up also includes runabouts.

Design

MirroCraft boats are designed with attention to detail, incorporating innovative features that enhance comfort, safety, and performance. The company uses precision CNC plasma cutting technology to ensure the exact parts are cut for each boat. The sides and bottoms of the boats are then bent and screwed together to hold them in place securely.

Manufacturing

In the manufacturing process, MirroCraft utilizes its own molded fiberglass consoles, which are stronger and more fade-resistant than the plastic consoles used by competitive boat manufacturers. The use of fiberglass ensures a durable and long-lasting finish.

MirroCraft boats also feature high-performance components, including stainless-steel gauge bezels with a brushed pewter look, accented gauge panels, ergonomic switches, lighted gauges, and comfortable steering wheels. These features not only enhance the aesthetics but also improve the functionality and comfort of the boat.

Additionally, MirroCraft continuously researches new methods and materials to ensure they deliver the finest finished product. The company goes the extra step to test these components, ensuring increased comfort, safety, and retained value for their boats.

Overall, the design and manufacturing of MirroCraft boats reflect the company's commitment to quality craftsmanship, innovation, and attention to detail, making them a popular choice for boating enthusiasts.

The performance of MirroCraft boats

Engine and Power

MirroCraft boats are equipped with powerful engines, ranging from 20 horsepower in the more modest models to up to 150 horsepower in the higher-performance variants. This range of engine options allows buyers to choose the perfect balance of power and efficiency for their needs.

Hull Design and Performance

The deep vee hull design of MirroCraft boats enhances their performance on the water. This type of hull is known for providing a smooth and stable ride, making it ideal for a variety of boating activities, including freshwater fishing, day cruising, and watersports. The deep vee hull cuts through the water efficiently, providing a comfortable and responsive boating experience.

Cutting-Edge Fabrication Technology

MirroCraft utilizes cutting-edge fabrication technology to improve efficiency during the manufacturing process and on the water. Their precision CNC plasma cutting ensures that parts are cut exactly to specifications, resulting in a well-crafted boat. Additionally, the sides and bottoms of the boats are bent and screwed together, adding to the overall strength and durability.

Materials and Durability

MirroCraft is known for its quality aluminum boat building. They utilize aluminum in their construction, which offers several advantages over traditional fiberglass. Aluminum boats are known for their durability and strength, as well as their lightweight and low-maintenance nature. This makes MirroCraft boats ideal for a variety of water conditions and activities.

Comfort and Features

MirroCraft boats are designed with comfort and style in mind. Their boats feature ergonomic switches, lighted gauges, and comfortable steering wheels. Additionally, the consoles are made from molded fiberglass, which is stronger than plastic and fade-resistant, ensuring that your boat maintains its sleek look over time. Other notable features include stainless gauge bezels with a brushed pewter look and accented gauge panels.

In conclusion, MirroCraft boats offer impressive performance thanks to their powerful engines, efficient hull designs, and cutting-edge fabrication. The use of aluminum construction ensures durability and low maintenance, while the attention to detail and innovative features provide increased comfort and style for a superior boating experience.

Frequently asked questions