Starcraft has been making metal products for more than 100 years and aluminum boats for more than a half-century — much of its work is for the military. There are boat brands that old, but few boat companies have that much experience in building reliable boating fun.
The Super Fisherman 170 Sport has the backbone of a Humvee, but its hard shell is accessorized for family fun. Four removable swivel seats fit into pedestals on the aluminum sole. Though one belongs to the captain, you could remove one or all four to give it a specific fishing deck plan. Leave them all in and add optional cushions to the bow for recreational riding comparable to what you'd find in bowriders. Two jump seats flip up out of the aft casting deck to add even more comfort.
| Versatile fun. Military-tough aluminum construction and family-friendly features are packaged in the Super Fisherman. |
We opened the livewell lid, kicked on the switch to check the circulation and found that the 800 gph pump filled it quickly and kept it circulating. We liked the bait bucket inset in the well. On the softer side, we found plenty of depth in the cockpit, so parents should feel comfortable with young kids on board. Stability for walking around was very nice. The Evinrude was a gas sipper and quiet enough for conversation.
Walleye anglers in the Great Lakes will be double-checking the double-riveted chines and keel and the tough 5052 H34 aluminum hull. The light chop we experienced barely rippled the water in the livewell.
(click image to enlarge)
Key Note: Performance was good, but a stainless-steel prop or a lower pitch aluminum prop would let the engine develop its full potential.
Standout Features
• Aft casting deck converts to twin jump seats for family cruising.
• A locking rod compartment is centered on the deck at the bow and cradles rods individually.
• Easy access to bow storage compartments enhances fishability and keeps the deck clear.
• Evinrude power is light, fast and fuel efficient.
Vital Stats
- Length Overall: 17'8"
- Beam: 8'4"
- Dry Weight: 1,273 lb.
- Seating/Weight Capacity: 8/1,075 lb.
- Fuel Capacity: 32 gal.
- Maximum HP: 150
- MSRP (test boat w/ Evinrude E-TEC 90 hp): See local dealer
- NMMA Certified: Yes
Test Drive
- Test Engine: Evinrude E-TEC 90 hp
- Test Prop: 14 x 17, aluminum, 3-blade
- Test Load: People (230 lb.); Fuel (25 gal.)
- Minimum Planing Speed: 15 mph @ 2,500 rpm
- Top Speed: 38 mph @ 5,000 rpm
- Time to Plane: 3.4 sec.
- Time to 30 MPH: 8.9 sec.
