Hells Bay Whipray or Maverick HPX-T/V?

[coldwater]

Anyone got any opinions on Hells Bay vs. Maverick. Looking for a boat that can handle skinny falling tides for reds and also to stake up for ocean side tarpon. I have wet tested both the Whipray and HPX-T&V and can't make up my mind on which boat is better suited for the dual task. Anyone got an opinion on the subject or a HB or Maverick for sale?

[mcutchin]

Coldstream,

IMHO either of these boats will provide the performance you need. So the variables are really your comfort in driving them (which was drier, smoother on the wet test), the cap/storage configuration (what kind of gear you like to bring) and price (if that's an issue). Sorry that's not much guidance but you're talking about the creme de la creme.

Marshall

[printguy]

I have been through the same process for the last six months or so and finally settled on the Hells Bay skiff. On Tuesday, I ordered the 16 Whip Ray with the Merc 40 4 stroke. Wasn't an easy decision but I'm sure looking forward to having that boat. The biggest problem with the Hells Bay is that they are all made to order and you have to wait. It will be approximately 5 or 6 weeks befor I can take delivery so that's not too bad. Good Luck.
George Dahlquist

[bones]

Either one will do. Personally I would go with the Hell's Bay. Will either boat allow you to get into 2-3 foot swells?......'nother words, are the gunwales tall enough to allow you to get into some rips?

Engines: I would seek a 50hp 2 stroke motor,......you get 50hp and the motor is significantly lighter thatn the 4-strokers. The 4-strokers are certainly quieter at idle or slow speeds, but just as noisy as the 2-strokers at cruising rpm. My recommendation is a Nissan/Tohatsu 50,.....if you can find one. Go to www.google.com type in "outboard motors" and check out the comparisons of the various manufacturers.

[docbonezz]

I have a 1998 Whipray that was actually bought in 1999 for sale through my brothers estate. Boat is in excellent condition. If interested please email me at chiropractor@hotmail.com.

Karl

[redpepps]

Hardly used with a Merc 40hp two stroke. It is in Ft Lauderdale, Florida.
ian@redpepps.com for pics

[Capt.ChrisLembo]

I went through that same task a few years back. Weight came to be the big issue. At my weight with a couple of anglers they were both too tippy & sank to the same depth as other skiffs. Get a 2 stroke. No need to add 50 pounds to the back of the boat. You will also want the low end of a 2 stroke to get up on plane quick when starting in shallow water. 4 strokes I have found to be great on big boats but no advantage on a skiff. Small engines burn so little gas/oil that it is no advantage.

I ended up getting a 1997 Mirage 2. It was slightly heavier,longer & wider. It poled excellent and ended up being just as shallow (loaded up) whenI needed it to be. Ran great in a heavy chop, plenty of storage, good livewell, good rod storage. Had a yamaha 70 and it ran plenty fast. A 90 could go on it but not necessary. Very stable boat.