Boat reviews – good source?

Guys. Is anyone aware of a pretty decent, mostly objective online source of boat reviews similiar to what exists for vehicles? Something like Edmunds or Consumer Reports or whatever? I think this forum is one great tool. But it’d be nice to have another tool, too. Even if it’s just for basic stuff. For example, if a guy is looking at used boats and wants to know if he should focus on a certain year (or avoid a certain year) cuz starting in year X the boat dimensions or whatever changed. And, of course, it’d always be nice to get some motor information in there, too. Just curious cuz I have yet to come across a good online source of boat review info (speaking of fishing boats, btw).

If none exists, maybe another opportunity for the editors/experts at IDO…

The best site I’ve found is http://www.boattest.com. You do have to register to view some reviews.

Understandably, it’s difficult for any site to have a comprehensive test for every maker/model. The logistics of testing and the fact that there are so many boats and then sub-models of boats, different engine/boat combinations, etc, make it difficult.

One thing that really is missing is a site that’s focused on fishing boats. Fishing rigs get occasional mention in boating mags, etc, but they are sharing space with all other types of boats, so you’re lucky if there’s one freshwater fishing boat review in each issue. As interesting as it is to read about the latest Hellsbay flats boat, it really isn’t very helpful for a guy trying to decide on a new walleye rig.

I agree, it would be great if IDO had boat reviews and focused specificially on fishing boats, especially of the brands that are commonly sold in the midwest. It would also be very helpful to be testing outboard in real-world midwest conditions. You aren’t going to see many test reports from Florida about how an outboard becomes hard starting below 35 degrees…

Grouse

I agree, I’ll be looking for a new rig in a couple of years, would be nice to read reviews about fishing rigs. Grouse had it right, doesn’t do us midwest guys any good to read about flats boats.
Don

I agree. I’m not in the market now but am always looking. Surprises me there isn’t a good online source for fishing boat reviews.