Hello and advice needed on V20 purchase

What a great forum. I hope someone here would be kind enough to give me some advice as I'm thinking of picking up a V20 as a first boat for fishing here in the NY long island area.

I'm looking at a 1976 Wellcraft V-20 tommorow but I'm concerned about the fact that the boat only has a 115hp outboard, was rebuilt 3 years ago. The price is pretty low and is described as in excellent condition. But is this enough power for 3 guys? A repower looks pretty expensive. I'm mostly going to be bay fishing but hope to get out on the ocean for some nearby bottom fishing if the weather is mild.

I was told the V20 is very seaworthy and has a great ride. I've given up on finding a 24' Airslot outboard and the Seacraft's are too expensive for me in an outboard version. Any feedback appreciated.

I love how you guys have souped up your boats. Thanks for any feedback.

[Mulv80]

While no speed demon the 115 will get the job done. I would think you could expect max speeds aroung 32-35, there are other members here who are running 115's that may offer their performance numbers.

I think the V20 is a great first boat, versatile and easy to handle alone. it seems as though there are quite a few nice V-20's out there right now so be patient and don't settle on the first one you see. There will be others, Wellcraft made tons of them.

Good Luck and be sure to let us know how you make out.

[shicks007]

Welcome,

I have a 76' cuddy. This is my first boat also. As Mulv said, although 115 hp wouldn't be my first choice for the boat, I think if the price was right and the boat was in good shape, it would be alright.

[Hammerhead]

IMNHO...the V-20 isn't only a great first boat...it's a great last boat. Far as a 115 goes, my wrench sez it's really not big nuff to expect a long life from, BUT what motor is????? *I'd be more concerned that the hull and deck is in good shape,...motors are easy to change.

Thanks all,

I'll take a good look tommorow, the price is around 3.5k including trailer and some basic electronics. I hope that's in the ball park for a reasonable deal.

Ya know the guy couldn't tell me what make the motor was, he just said he pays for maintenance and winterization the last years. His story seemed typical used it once a week the first year, once a month the second year, now never so want's to get rid of it.

One of my buds said he though a 20 footer with a 115 HP was too small incase the weather turns snotty coming back in but I've read the boat itself is seaworthy. *

Those V20's are good lookin little boats and look perfect for fishin solo or duo. * Plus the gas bill should be lookin pretty good.

[macojoe]

I think a 115 is to small, and I know a few here got them and I also think that if you see 30 mph you will be alone with a empty gas tank!!

A 150 should be the smallest motor IMO!!

[phester]

RG, welcome! Looks like we got another Long Islander on board. That makes four or five, but you really only hear from TheTinMan and myself. Good luck w/ the boat [ I personally would like a few more ponies than a 115....but a 115 will get the job done]where on L.I. are you?

[Perfidiajoe]

I also live on Long Island, I have a '77 cuddy. I don't post much but read the forum everyday. I have seen 1 or 2, V20's with 115 horses, there is one across the street from me. They run alright if proped correctly, but wont break any speed records. I like more HP, but not because of the weather turning bad, if it does you can't go that fast anyway. I would be more concerned with reliability. You could always repower later if you like the boat, & sell the 115, see what they go for on Ebay to get an Idea. good Luck

[charlie_the_tuna]

hey phester i also live on the island but if you think that he should only hear from the two of you, well, i guess you must have your reasons...

[phester]

sorry CTT, didn't mean to exclude you or peridiajoe or any other local v20 members on L.I., now I remember, you're in Freeport, I think. Clearly you misunderstood my post, I certainly don't think Raregroove should only post/ reply/PM myself and TheTinMan.....why would I say that?... Didn't mean to ruffle your feathers.