Stratos Boats: Worth The Hype?

Stratos boats are known for their reasonable price, durability, moderate performance, versatility, and affordability. They are manufactured by Stratos Boats, Inc., a fishing boat company located in Arkansas. While Stratos boats offer good value for anglers and boat enthusiasts, there are some drawbacks and common problems to be aware of before purchasing one.

One of the main issues with Stratos boats is related to the transom, which can rust and cause bolts to become loose. Another problem is cracking due to excessive weight load. Additionally, Stratos boats may have issues with corrupted wiring, which can affect the boat's indicators and gauges. This can be resolved by isolating and replacing the affected wires.

Other problems include stability issues when the weight limit is exceeded, and ignition switch issues caused by external forces acting on the engine. Some users have also reported poor craftsmanship on seats and trim, as well as issues with motors, occluded tubes, and old batteries.

Despite these drawbacks, Stratos boats are still considered a good option for fishing and high-performance boating activities due to their speed and handling capabilities.

Stratos boats are known for their speed and handling capabilities

Stratos Boats, Inc. is a manufacturer of fishing boats located in Flippin, Arkansas. They began building boats in 1984 and have since sold them through a network of dealers across the United States, Australia, France, Japan, Mexico, Portugal, Romania, Russia, South Africa, Spain, Italy, and Venezuela.

The speed and handling of Stratos boats make them ideal for various activities, including freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, day cruising, and watersports. The company has partnered with high-profile professional anglers, such as Skeet Reese, Larry Nixon, Shawn Battersby, and Mike McClelland, to promote the benefits of their boats for fishing enthusiasts.

While production of new Stratos boats has been halted as the parent company, White River Marine Group, focuses its resources on other performance fishing boat brands, used Stratos boats are still sought after by enthusiasts. The boats are known for their smooth ride, fast hulls, and excellent handling and performance qualities. Many owners and users of Stratos boats have shared positive experiences, highlighting the reliability, speed, and smooth ride of the boats.

They are reasonably priced and durable

Stratos boats are known for their reasonable price and durability. They are a good choice for anglers and boat enthusiasts who are looking for a combination of performance and value. While Stratos boats may have some drawbacks, such as transom issues and cracking complications due to excessive weight load, they are still a popular option for those seeking a durable and affordable fishing boat.

One of the main attractions of Stratos boats is their exceptional performance and fishing features. Anglers appreciate the speed and handling capabilities of these boats, which are often used for high-performance activities like fishing and water sports. For instance, the Stratos 293 VLO, a 29-foot bass boat, can reach speeds of 60 miles per hour or more with a suitable engine. Similarly, the Stratos 276 VLO, a 27-foot fishing boat, is known for its speed and can attain speeds of around 50 miles per hour or higher.

In addition to their speed, Stratos boats offer good handling and performance qualities. One user commented that Stratos boats have a "good smooth ride and a fast hull." Another user praised the excellent handling and performance qualities, stating that Stratos boats are "very good boat [s] with excellent handling and performance qualities." The durability of Stratos boats is also evident, with one user mentioning that their Stratos boat had "rock solid" wiring, gauges, switches, and hardware that were all original and still working after several years of ownership.

The affordability of Stratos boats is another appealing factor. Compared to other brands like Ranger and Triton, Stratos boats are often priced lower, making them a more budget-friendly option. This affordability, however, does not compromise the quality of the boat. As one user pointed out, the Stratos brand offers "lower price point rigs" without sacrificing reliability. This makes Stratos boats a great choice for those seeking a durable and reasonably priced fishing companion.

While Stratos boats have their share of drawbacks, the ease of fixing these issues is commendable. Routine check-ups and maintenance can help extend the life of the boat and prevent issues like transom rusting and cracking. Additionally, being mindful of weight limits and avoiding excessive load can minimize the chances of stability issues and cracking complications. Overall, Stratos boats offer a good balance of performance, durability, and affordability, making them a popular choice among anglers and fishing enthusiasts.

They have a good smooth ride and a fast hull

Stratos boats are known for their smooth ride and fast hull. One user commented that they have "never owned one [themselves] but have fished out of them. They have a good smooth ride and a fast hull." Another user agreed, saying that they "owned 2 Stratos boats over the years" and that they have "excellent handling and performance qualities." The same user also mentioned that they had fished out of the 189 VLO and the 294 EVO, describing them as "solid fishing platforms with great big water rides that are worth taking a look at."

The speed of a Stratos boat will depend on various factors, such as the boat's size, weight, hull design, and engine size. For example, the Stratos 293 VLO is a 29-foot high-performance bass boat capable of reaching speeds of 60 miles per hour or more with a suitable engine. The Stratos 276 VLO is a 27-foot fishing boat known for its speed and handling and can reach speeds of around 50 miles per hour or more.

Stratos boats are also known for their affordability. One user commented that they are the "Kia of the bass boat world," implying that they offer good value for money. Another user agreed, saying that "for the money, build quality, and the ride [they] think they are hard to beat."

In terms of maintenance, one user mentioned that their Stratos boat had "all original wiring, gauges, switches, and hardware" that were still "working" after several years. Another user commented that their Stratos boat was "rock solid, with "all the switches, wiring still rock solid." This suggests that Stratos boats require minimal maintenance and can maintain their performance over time.

Overall, Stratos boats are a good choice for those looking for a smooth ride, fast hull, and affordable option. They are known for their handling and performance qualities, making them a popular choice for fishing and other water sports activities.

Stratos boats have a history of transom issues, with complaints about rusting being common

Stratos boats are known for their reasonable price and durability, but they have a history of transom issues, with complaints about rusting being common. Transom difficulties refer to problems with the rectitude of the transom, or the area at the back of the boat where the hull and the keel meet. The bolts in this area can become loose, and the transom itself can rust or crack due to excessive weight load on the boat. This is a significant issue as it affects the stability and durability of the boat.

To address transom issues in Stratos boats, it is important to maintain a regular maintenance routine and limit the usage of the boat to reduce water admittance and gas buildup. It is also crucial to minimise the weight load on the boat, as excessive pressure can lead to cracking and stability issues. By following these maintenance and usage guidelines, Stratos boat owners can help prolong the life of their vessel and reduce the likelihood of encountering transom problems.

The boats have good fishing features and performance

Stratos boats are a good choice for anglers and fishing enthusiasts due to their fishing features and performance. They are known for their speed, handling, and versatility on the water. Here are some reasons why the boats have good fishing features and performance:

Smooth Ride and Fast Hull

Stratos boats offer a good smooth ride, with one user commenting that their Stratos boat had a "great big water ride". The boats are also known for their fast hulls, which contribute to their speed and performance.

Excellent Handling and Performance

Stratos boats are known for their excellent handling and performance qualities. One user commented that Stratos "make a very good boat with excellent handling and performance qualities". The boats are designed to handle rough water well, providing a stable and secure fishing platform.

Storage and Deck Space

The Stratos boats have ample storage and deck space, which is important for fishing. One user mentioned that the "bait and rod storage is still better than any of the newer rigs I have looked at". This makes it convenient for anglers to store their gear and access it easily while fishing.

Recessed Foot Control and Battery

The Stratos boats come with recessed foot control, which is a nice feature for anglers. It provides better control and stability while fishing. Additionally, the boats have a good battery setup, with a 12V battery that can be upgraded to a 24V system if needed.

Good Fit and Finish

While some users have mentioned issues with the fit and finish of Stratos boats, others have found them to be well-constructed and aesthetically pleasing. The boats have good attention to detail, with one user commenting that the carpet in the bottom had snaps so it could be easily removed for cleaning.

Customization Options

Stratos boats offer customization options, such as the ability to choose the motor brand and upgrade the trolling motor. This allows anglers to personalize their boat to their preferences and fishing needs.

Overall, Stratos boats offer a good combination of performance, handling, and fishing-specific features that make them a popular choice among anglers and fishing enthusiasts. While there may be some minor drawbacks, the boats provide a good value for the price and are suitable for a variety of fishing applications.

Frequently asked questions