Gear

2019 Boats: 4 Multi-Species Fishing Machines

As we gear up for spring, editors and writers at Game & Fish checked out the newest multi-species vessels designed with the serious angler in mind.

Here are four versatile boats new for 2019:

Starcraft Renegade 178 DC

While most anglers love the idea of having a top-of-the-line tournament boat, the reality is that most of us can do without the top-of-the-line price tag that usually goes along with it. Starcraft certainly got that message when the company unveiled its Renegade 178 DC, a well-designed multi-species fishing boat that puts the best features of its high-end tournament boats into a package that’s both attractive and affordable.

They really didn’t scrimp, either. With its .100 gauge bottom and hefty .080 gauge sides, the Renegade is built for serious fishing, and it can run from ice-out to freeze-up thanks to the protection of its dual consoles and a full walk-through windshield. Even with the consoles, the raised bow deck is still more than large enough for two to fish in comfort, while accommodating an 18-gallon aerated livewell with a bait bucket, storage space for gear, and an in-floor rod locker with six individual tubes.

The main cockpit is kept open for uncluttered trolling, giving the Renegade added versatility. The new-for-2019 helm console has space for a large flush-mount fish finder, while the gunnels offer further rod storage in a pair of top-loading lockers.

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