Trophy Boats: Are They Worthy Watercraft?

Trophy boats, manufactured by Bayliner, have had a varied reputation over the years. The boats were popular in the US for several decades, but the Trophy line was retired in 2008-2009 due to the global financial crisis. However, in recent years, Bayliner has re-introduced the Trophy line, positioning it as an entry/mid-tier model. Trophy boats now offer a range of features and amenities catering to both fishing and family day boating. The latest models have received positive reviews for their design, performance, and value for money. While some older models may have had quality issues, recent purchases suggest that Trophy boats have improved and offer a good option for those seeking a reasonably priced boat.

Trophy boats are now a different product to those with a poor reputation in the 80s and 90s

Trophy boats have had a reputation for poor quality since the 80s and 90s. However, they are now a different product, and customer satisfaction has improved significantly. Trophy's parent company, Brunswick Corporation, relaunched the Trophy line in 2022 with two new centre console boats, the T20CC/CX and the T22CC/CX, responding to improved market conditions after discontinuing the line in 2008-2009 due to the global financial crisis.

The new Trophy models offer a versatile mix of fishing and family-friendly features, with ample space and stability. The T24CX, for example, has a larger model with a family-friendly design, featuring a comfortable day-boat package with a head in the console compartment, an anchor roller, foam cockpit decking, and an upgraded stereo system. The T22CX, on the other hand, provides a blend of fishing and family boat amenities, including wide-open fishing decks, large live wells, and ample rod storage.

The construction of the new Trophy boats has also improved. They are made using traditional fibreglass methods with foam and composite-cored stringers and transoms, ensuring unsinkability. The hulls are foam-filled, and the Trophy T22CX, in particular, has a smooth ride through choppy waters with its 18-degree deadrise vee hull.

In terms of performance, the Trophy boats deliver excellent speed and handling. The T22CX, paired with a 300hp Mercury Pro XS V8 engine, can reach speeds of up to 47 knots. The hull design allows for sharp turns and figure-eights with ease, providing a secure and well-mannered feel.

Overall, the Trophy boats of today have evolved significantly from their predecessors, offering enhanced quality, performance, and features that cater to both fishing and family-oriented customers.

The Bayliner Trophy T24CX is a family-friendly design and the largest Trophy model

The T24CX is built on a deep V-hull foundation, providing a stable and comfortable ride. It has a maximum horsepower of 300 and a fuel capacity of 100 gallons, making it well-equipped for family fishing trips and coastal adventures. The boat also comes with a range of standard features, including a nine-inch Simrad Digital Dash with Mercury VesselView Link, an upgraded stereo system, and gunwale-mounted rod holders.

The Bayliner Trophy T24CX shines in its ability to provide a comfortable and versatile experience. Its spacious design allows for both cruising and casting, making it a true family boat. The T24CX is a fantastic option for those seeking a reasonably priced, larger boat that doesn't compromise on features and performance.

Additionally, the T24CX offers a smooth ride, thanks to its increased deadrise in the hull and heft, which helps to smooth out choppy waters. The boat's standard tandem-axel trailer makes it easy to transport to your favourite fishing spots, whether it's for flounder or mahi-mahi. Overall, the Bayliner Trophy T24CX is an impressive package, delivering on space, functionality, and family-friendly features.

The Trophy T22CX is a versatile fishing/family cross-over model and Bayliner's flagship Trophy fishing boat

The Trophy T22CX is a well-appointed, versatile fishing and family boat. It has wide, open fishing decks, two large livewells, and plenty of rod storage racks. It also has ample family boating amenities, including a large, cushioned seating area at the bow. The U-shaped forward seats and forward-facing cushioned bench seat/safety gear locker provide plenty of space for social boaters and sun-lovers. The console has a step-down change room/head compartment with a removable chemical toilet.

The Bayliner Trophy T22CX has a conventional vee-shaped hull with an 18-degree transom deadrise, ensuring the boat is exceptionally stable at rest and easier to push across the water. The entry shape is designed for safe, easy handling in all conditions, and the foam-filled hull ensures it is unsinkable.

The Trophy T22CX is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile boat that can accommodate both fishing and family outings. It offers a smooth ride, ample features, and good value for money.

The Trophy range was retired in 2008-2009 but re-introduced in 2022

The Trophy range of boats, produced by Bayliner, was retired in 2008-2009 due to the global financial crisis and subsequent US recession. However, in 2022, Bayliner and its parent company, Brunswick Corporation, re-introduced the Trophy line. This decision was made in response to improved market conditions, and the Trophy range was re-launched with a pair of centre console open boats: the T20CC/CX and the T22CC/CX.

The Trophy range has a long-standing reputation as a popular fishing boat, particularly in the US, with its mid-size walkaround cabin boats from the early 2000s being successful worldwide, including in Australia. The re-introduction of the Trophy line by Bayliner was highly anticipated, with the new models offering a mix of fishing and family boat amenities.

The T22CX, the largest model in the Trophy lineup, features a family-friendly design with a spacious bow seating compartment and a U-shaped moulded seating area. It also includes fishing features such as wide, open fishing decks, live wells, and rod storage racks. The T22CX is an excellent choice for family day boating, entertaining, and social tow-sports, while also accommodating anglers' needs.

The re-introduction of the Trophy range by Bayliner demonstrates their commitment to meeting the diverse needs of their customers, offering versatile and well-appointed boats at competitive price points.

The Trophy T22CX is a good mix of fishing and family boat

The T22CX is a versatile boat that can be used for fishing, family outings, and entertaining. It offers a spacious layout with forward and aft casting decks, ample storage, and fishing features such as livewells and gunwale rod storage. The boat is equipped with a reliable Mercury outboard engine with up to 300 HP, providing sure and predictable handling.

The T22CX is also well-appointed for family use, with a comfortable aft bench seat and optional equipment like a ski tow pylon. The CX convenience package adds features such as a head in the console compartment, an anchor roller, foam cockpit decking, a freshwater shower system, and an upgraded stereo system, making it a comfortable family day boat.

The T22CX's design carries the full beam as far forward as possible to maximise bow cockpit space, providing a significant boost in interior space compared to other boats in its size range. The boat can accommodate up to eight passengers and offers a smooth ride through choppy waters, making it a good choice for both fishing and family outings.

Overall, the Trophy T22CX is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and well-appointed boat that caters to both fishing and family outings. With its mix of features and amenities, it offers a good balance of functionality and comfort, making it a good option for those seeking a boat that can cater to multiple needs.

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