Rule #1 for a trailerable boat-If at all possible, keep it garaged! Rule #2 for a trailerable boat-If it is not possible for it to be garaged, keep it covered whenever it is not in use. These 2 rules will prevent most of the problems in this video.
The biggest issue I see with these boats in 2023 is the price. Another guy on RUclips got one brand new in 2018 for $18k out the door. Now they are listed at $32445 on Bass Pro's website and that's before sales tax.
I also had my AXLE SNAP on the hwy and nearly killed me. They need a RECALL on these trailers and are DANGEROUS. Im an engineer and found the axle was manufactured upside down with the bend going the wrong way. My lawyer gonna contact them 😮
Just got my 2023 mako 17 skiff after watching your vids. I upgraded from my first boat a '94 tracker aluminum! What a night and day difference! Got the 80# trolling motor with spotlock, the bigger 75 hp motor that you recommended. Easy to tow, launch, and clean. It's been in both the lakes and ocean. It is a smaller boat but if you organize it the way you do, there's still plenty of space!
Advantage of alum prop over stainless is if you hit something...like a sandbar or log when boating in shallow water. Aluminum prop may get torn up, but far less expensive than the lower unit. Conversely stainless can take a lot more punishment and usually provides a 3 mph advantage on the top end. So a trade off on where you boat and what's more important to you. If you run aluminum and boat in shallow water, carry a spare prop with you.
Ron, as others have mentioned go to lithium batteries. The better ones are quite a bit more expensive, but from what I have looked at worth it. Make sure to get one that has a battery management system. Generally that means the cells are monitored while charging, and will typically do cell balancing so you get the best performance. There are several distinct benefits to lithium, that make them better: First is a flat discharge curve, so you don't see a drop in performance from beginning to the end. The thing to be aware of is that the battery simply cuts off, unlike other batteries where you notice a performance difference as they lose power. Second they don't need the maintenance type charging which everyone called "memory effect". Basically it is what you are doing with the charger by keeping it plugged into the current batteries, keeping the chemicals active. Third there is a much lower self discharge meaning even without charging a full lithium battery will lose less than 1% of its charge per month, the lead acid is around 10-15% and potentially higher dependent on conditions. Then there is the weight, lithium is about half the weight of lead acid, Ni-Cd, Ni-Mh, etc. Finally lithium gets more total cycles, that is the number of full discharges and recharges which translates into longer life. Give me a call if you want any of the real technical info.
Yea my boats out side getting leaves in it. I never wash it Mold growing ? Still moves fishs 02 express bass layout side console 6 gallon tank top off 20$ go fishing
Great video. I’m gonna check my kill switch bolt and nut in the morning. Great video, like the change of pace and being boat people I liked it! Tight Lines!
Hey Ron, I don’t know what’s wrong with your battery situation but I would recommend the you switch to a lithium battery. I know that you’re frugal but it’s definitely worth it. I Love the content you guys provide, keep up the good work. Oh, Say hello to the P.Y.T. for me!
I have a Minn Kota 80 lb Terrova and I switched to a single lithium battery that does 24 volts 75 amp hours. I think it was about $1200 and it lasts me from sunrise to sunset but you might need 100 amp hours for that boat because yours is a bit heavier than mine. I’ll never go back to lead acid ever again. Make sure you get the right charger.
If it's faulting then the battery has power. I believe the problem will be in a transformer or fuse or contact somewhere. 2 wires touching live could cause a fault.
I actually looked the pro skiff over HARD at BPS in Daphe this weekend, as well as the Mako 19' skiff..I'd really prefer a Suzuki though so, might have to go with a different brand boat. Glad that you've had good service out of the Merc..I'm still considering it.
Suzuki's are def great engines no question on that one. I feel like the mercury on a lower cost boat serves its purpose for probably longer than the boat should last. but def cat hurt having a better engine
Ron I bought my mako new in 2019 for 21k and have had an issue with the front live well too, other than that no issues. I did install the MK power drive myself and used quality Marine connectors (no issues) that being said, last year I sold it for 23k and bought a Parker 2320 sc and it will be my last boat. Good luck with your Mako.
Use 303 on the plastic and vinyl... Works better than armorall and is great for marine applications.. And does the drain in the baitwell work? Fill it with ice and drinks and just let the ice drain as it melts
The issues with the lights and the batteries might be the same issue. If you have a short in the wiring you might be discharging and recharging the batteries at the same time and shortening the life expectancy. lithium might be the way to go but get your wiring fixed and you might get more life from the batteries.
Use Locknuts for ALL Electronic connections. You can get them in Stainless and they will NEVER get loose or rust. You can still remove them for replacing components, but I still recommend replacing them if you remove them a few times. They are very affordable insurance against electrical component failure and you can get them for every size terminal. Replace your front lights with a low profile permanent LED running light and seal it properly. This is a low cost way to eliminate having to store or find the running light stick and eliminates water intrusion completely. You can also find Anchor Lights that are permanent that eliminate that headache as well. For Batteries, Go to Dakota Lithium. You will save money over the long run and they are super heavy duty, while being almost half the weight. They also offer a single battery that is 24V and will free up space in the front storage.
With deep cycle battery you need to run the battery almost dead. Because if you run it for an hour then charge it it ruins the battery. Been running a cheap Walmart battery for 3 years this spring will be 4.
Batteries will break down on the inside by hitting waves hard 2nd is to get them them charged before 24 hours and use a trickle charger to keep the heat out of them Mine have over 3 years on 1 year battery
I have the Yamaha fsh and installed a garmin having issues with the transducer probably my placement, installing a Minkota ulterra this weekend. Love my boat, but need someone with experience in installation. Turns out I’m not mechanically inclined myself lol
The pro skiff is all any one could need . The fish don’t seem to know the difference. The bait holder , dang man if there’s an issue , you fix it , I know you can there engineers might sponsor it.
Definately go to Lithium. The problem you are having is the bouncing and vibrations in the front of the boat does not agree with Led acid batteries. I have a Mako 191 inshore and I was gonna move my batteries to the front compartment instead of under my console, but my battery guy talked me out of it.
Carolina skiff makes a 17ft If you are buying $100 trolling batteries and using them daily probably a year is right. Also you have them upfront so they are probably getting pounded in that boat. AGM batteries will last longer.
Led acid batteries do not like to be drained more than 50% lithium batteries can be drained all the way daily and not have issues. Lithium batteries are the best investment for trolling motors
I purchased a brand new 2022 from Bass Pro Shop last year, have had it for 9 months now, and i have NOT had a si gle issue with the bait well...are you sure your inlet nozzle is opened?
I am sure they have addressed it on the newer models. It was a known issue on the 2020 and actually carried over from the 2018 model. It was so bad on the 2018 model that they didn’t even put a front gate well on a 2019.
bro your power issue......change out the all the cables from one end to another, invest in tent awning to park under, you already know the sun eats everything.....
Rule #1 for a trailerable boat-If at all possible, keep it garaged!
Rule #2 for a trailerable boat-If it is not possible for it to be garaged, keep it covered whenever it is not in use. These 2 rules will prevent most of the problems in this video.
The biggest issue I see with these boats in 2023 is the price. Another guy on RUclips got one brand new in 2018 for $18k out the door. Now they are listed at $32445 on Bass Pro's website and that's before sales tax.
BINGO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Everything is unaffordable now. Shrimp are 7$ a dozen at a place near me.
I also had my AXLE SNAP on the hwy and nearly killed me. They need a RECALL on these trailers and are DANGEROUS. Im an engineer and found the axle was manufactured upside down with the bend going the wrong way. My lawyer gonna contact them 😮
Just got my 2023 mako 17 skiff after watching your vids. I upgraded from my first boat a '94 tracker aluminum! What a night and day difference! Got the 80# trolling motor with spotlock, the bigger 75 hp motor that you recommended. Easy to tow, launch, and clean. It's been in both the lakes and ocean. It is a smaller boat but if you organize it the way you do, there's still plenty of space!
Put the boat in reverse to prime the bait well………..I know that doesn’t sound right……but it works.
Now that is a very cool tip! You rock! 🔥
I own the exact model and appreciate the overview!
Advantage of alum prop over stainless is if you hit something...like a sandbar or log when boating in shallow water. Aluminum prop may get torn up, but far less expensive than the lower unit. Conversely stainless can take a lot more punishment and usually provides a 3 mph advantage on the top end. So a trade off on where you boat and what's more important to you. If you run aluminum and boat in shallow water, carry a spare prop with you.
Good review on the Mako! You can spend more and get better, but that is a solid skiff.
I really hope you reach at least 50k subscribers this year, Ron. You are a dedicated content creator and deserve it.
Good luck with this Buddy!!
I would love that man! Unfortunately it’s a struggle to get pushed to a new audience sometimes lol
@Cameraman Ron I totally understand. It also doesn't help the way RUclips is treating their content creators.
An Aluminum prop won't rust either. However it's all about the stiffness of a stainless steel prop. (No Flexing) = much better performance.
It does take me back !! I remember when you got the boat. That was a super happy day for you and the channel.
I still feel just as good everytime I launch her
The side rail is called a "gunwale" often slang shortened and pronounced roughly "gunnal".
Definitely surprised that he doesn't know that. Not sure if I wanna take his advise as real because of it.
Nice review Ron.
Awesome how you broke it all down looking for a small fishing boat definitely interested in Mako thanks for all the info
Hey Ron, The top edge is called a gunwale pronounced like gunnel.
Nice that sounds way better than what I was calling it
@@CameramanRon It's the Old Engish words for gonne walle or gun wall or plank on a wall. Guns and small cannons were mounted here.
Ron, as others have mentioned go to lithium batteries. The better ones are quite a bit more expensive, but from what I have looked at worth it. Make sure to get one that has a battery management system. Generally that means the cells are monitored while charging, and will typically do cell balancing so you get the best performance. There are several distinct benefits to lithium, that make them better: First is a flat discharge curve, so you don't see a drop in performance from beginning to the end. The thing to be aware of is that the battery simply cuts off, unlike other batteries where you notice a performance difference as they lose power. Second they don't need the maintenance type charging which everyone called "memory effect". Basically it is what you are doing with the charger by keeping it plugged into the current batteries, keeping the chemicals active. Third there is a much lower self discharge meaning even without charging a full lithium battery will lose less than 1% of its charge per month, the lead acid is around 10-15% and potentially higher dependent on conditions. Then there is the weight, lithium is about half the weight of lead acid, Ni-Cd, Ni-Mh, etc. Finally lithium gets more total cycles, that is the number of full discharges and recharges which translates into longer life. Give me a call if you want any of the real technical info.
Yea my boats out side getting leaves in it. I never wash it Mold growing ? Still moves fishs 02 express bass layout side console 6 gallon tank top off 20$ go fishing
Great video. I’m gonna check my kill switch bolt and nut in the morning. Great video, like the change of pace and being boat people I liked it! Tight Lines!
I honestly had never even thought about them loosening. We need to get together and fish soon!
@@CameramanRon agreed. We are ready whenever
Hey Ron, I don’t know what’s wrong with your battery situation but I would recommend the you switch to a lithium battery. I know that you’re frugal but it’s definitely worth it. I Love the content you guys provide, keep up the good work. Oh, Say hello to the P.Y.T. for me!
I have a Minn Kota 80 lb Terrova and I switched to a single lithium battery that does 24 volts 75 amp hours. I think it was about $1200 and it lasts me from sunrise to sunset but you might need 100 amp hours for that boat because yours is a bit heavier than mine. I’ll never go back to lead acid ever again. Make sure you get the right charger.
Thanks for shating. God bless you and your whole family...🙏❤🙏❤🙏😊🙂😀
Excellent, honest review!
If it's faulting then the battery has power. I believe the problem will be in a transformer or fuse or contact somewhere. 2 wires touching live could cause a fault.
For the battery issue, switch them out for Lithium iron phosphate ones. You might have to change the charger as well.
Ditto
i agree... could be in the charger/maintainer
I actually looked the pro skiff over HARD at BPS in Daphe this weekend, as well as the Mako 19' skiff..I'd really prefer a Suzuki though so, might have to go with a different brand boat. Glad that you've had good service out of the Merc..I'm still considering it.
Suzuki's are def great engines no question on that one. I feel like the mercury on a lower cost boat serves its purpose for probably longer than the boat should last. but def cat hurt having a better engine
Ron I bought my mako new in 2019 for 21k and have had an issue with the front live well too, other than that no issues. I did install the MK power drive myself and used quality Marine connectors (no issues) that being said, last year I sold it for 23k and bought a Parker 2320 sc and it will be my last boat. Good luck with your Mako.
That’s awesome that you sold it for more than you paid!!
@@CameramanRon the exact reason I’m planning on buying this new it’s 27k out the door for 2022 model year
Great review CMR. Why haven't we seen you do anything with Brandt, beach bum or Brad? Hope everything is well with yall
They just decided to go in a different direction! I wish them nothing but the absolute best!
Use 303 on the plastic and vinyl... Works better than armorall and is great for marine applications..
And does the drain in the baitwell work? Fill it with ice and drinks and just let the ice drain as it melts
The issues with the lights and the batteries might be the same issue. If you have a short in the wiring you might be discharging and recharging the batteries at the same time and shortening the life expectancy. lithium might be the way to go but get your wiring fixed and you might get more life from the batteries.
15:09 That’s called the Gunwale, pronounced like Gunnel. Like boatswain is pronounced Bosun…frikkin nautical terms are crazy awesome!
Great show thank you for sharing. Have a great day
Very informative I have the 2022 pro skiff
Good video, Ron.
Use Locknuts for ALL Electronic connections. You can get them in Stainless and they will NEVER get loose or rust. You can still remove them for replacing components, but I still recommend replacing them if you remove them a few times. They are very affordable insurance against electrical component failure and you can get them for every size terminal. Replace your front lights with a low profile permanent LED running light and seal it properly. This is a low cost way to eliminate having to store or find the running light stick and eliminates water intrusion completely. You can also find Anchor Lights that are permanent that eliminate that headache as well. For Batteries, Go to Dakota Lithium. You will save money over the long run and they are super heavy duty, while being almost half the weight. They also offer a single battery that is 24V and will free up space in the front storage.
Great video CMR!
With deep cycle battery you need to run the battery almost dead. Because if you run it for an hour then charge it it ruins the battery. Been running a cheap Walmart battery for 3 years this spring will be 4.
That's up on Michigan where you don't use them for for out of the year.
Batteries will break down on the inside by hitting waves hard 2nd is to get them them charged before 24 hours and use a trickle charger to keep the heat out of them Mine have over 3 years on 1 year battery
I am looking at getting the mako 13
Ik that boat ramp, it’s in Jacksonville in bay meadows 😂😂😂
Love the Vid! one question i have it how shallow can you get with the ProSKiff 17?
It drafts in 18” of water, we have had it in super super skinny water!
great info .. what's the shaft length of your trolling motor and thrust?
I have the Yamaha fsh and installed a garmin having issues with the transducer probably my placement, installing a Minkota ulterra this weekend. Love my boat, but need someone with experience in installation. Turns out I’m not mechanically inclined myself lol
I put Vaseline on all my electrical connections annually - keeps them clean and uncorroded - just my take
That’s a great idea
Thought I seen all your videos. Where’s the video of you installing front rod holders?
That’s probably a year or so ago
@@CameramanRon hey Ron I can’t find that install video. Any chance you have a link? One question, do the rod holders drain into the side toons?
You forgot to mention that time you pumped 500$ in fuel into the flush mount rod holder
luckily I have never done that one. MY tank is separate or I probably would have
rip legend ron
look into Rabco Buchaneer they have a 14 and a 16 footer for half the price!
The pro skiff is all any one could need . The fish don’t seem to know the difference. The bait holder , dang man if there’s an issue , you fix it , I know you can there engineers might sponsor it.
Definately go to Lithium. The problem you are having is the bouncing and vibrations in the front of the boat does not agree with Led acid batteries. I have a Mako 191 inshore and I was gonna move my batteries to the front compartment instead of under my console, but my battery guy talked me out of it.
What size and kind of a boat kinda catches you eye for a next boat if you were to trade ??
Do you have an issue with gelcoat chipping when ding with a fishing weight
What volt is that trolling motor ? 24 or 36? Def agree to go to lithium. Also you need a lucky bamboo on the boat 😂
It is a 24
I would say you have a bare wire somewhere killing the battery.
CMR next to PYT this is your best choice , u have more than got your money 💴 worth 👍🏻
That is for sure!
Best skiff out there.
Carolina skiff makes a 17ft
If you are buying $100 trolling batteries and using them daily probably a year is right. Also you have them upfront so they are probably getting pounded in that boat. AGM batteries will last longer.
I may move up to lithium at some point
Led acid batteries do not like to be drained more than 50% lithium batteries can be drained all the way daily and not have issues. Lithium batteries are the best investment for trolling motors
I purchased a brand new 2022 from Bass Pro Shop last year, have had it for 9 months now, and i have NOT had a si gle issue with the bait well...are you sure your inlet nozzle is opened?
I am sure they have addressed it on the newer models. It was a known issue on the 2020 and actually carried over from the 2018 model. It was so bad on the 2018 model that they didn’t even put a front gate well on a 2019.
@Cameraman Ron ahh okay gotcha. Thanks for your videos sir.
@@thatmeangreen1052 thank u for watching!
Lithium battery is the best,, there expensive, but worth the cost,
15:00 -is.
That's a 'gun wale' (DO NOT say "Gun Wale" - it's pronounced 'gunnel' like tunnel - with a g).
Ron do you have marsh areas near you that you could fish?
Not really close but def over in Mississippi and Louisiana
RIP CMR
Hi what is the height in the front? Thanks
Yes it is !
My prayer is that Jesus comforts Sarah and the family at the loss of Ron.
It's called railing on boats, Navy Veteran!
Let’s Go !!! 🧨🧨🧨
I like that boat
22k? I can't find one less than like 32k lol
I may be selling this one!!
Invest in a cover...money well spent!👍
Why have you not been with Brandt. Beach Bum and bearded Brad.Have you all had disagreement ,sure would like to know.Please respond.
Brandt. Beach Bum and bearded Brad have gone to much Hollywood.....I don't brother watching them anymore,
They simply decided to go in a different direction, I wish them nothing but the best.
AC Delco are the best and i sold car parts for 25 yrs
Great advice!
@@CameramanRon ac delco have a 2 yr warranty and usually last up to 4 yrs
Oh I’m a OG!! Lol
and we seriously appreciate you!
A mouse got your wire
That certainly is a possibility
Budget for 22 thousand dollars? What a joke
1 year is not acceptable no matter how much you use it
also shoal water
Coaming !!!
Thanks for info
AC Delco green eye group 31
bro your power issue......change out the all the cables from one end to another, invest in tent awning to park under, you already know the sun eats everything.....