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Last Updated on May 7, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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Are Astro Boats Any Good?
These boats, renowned for their sleek design and innovative features, have carved a niche. However, whether they meet the mark regarding performance and reliability is a topic of discussion.
Key Takeaway
Astro boats are a good option for those looking for affordable, used boats that are good for fishing and recreational boating. However, they are no longer in production, so finding parts and getting repairs may be difficult.
Summary
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- Astro boats were known for their durability, performance, versatility, comfort, and affordability.
- Although the company is no longer in production, used Astro boats are popular because of their affordability and quality.
- Astro boats offered various models, including pontoon, stern, ski, and outboard boats.
- Bass boats were among their most popular models. They were known for their shallow draft and narrow beam, which made them perfect for freshwater fishing.
- Astro boats were known for their high level of customization, allowing buyers to personalize the boat with various optional features.
- Some popular Astro boat models include the Astro 18 FSX, Astro 2100 SPORTFISH, and the 1989 Astro Quickfire 1700. These boats offered live wells, rod storage, comfortable seating, and powerful outboard engines.
Are you a beginner who wants to enjoy boating and doesn’t want to invest a hefty amount in buying a new boat? You have heard a lot about Astro boats and are wondering: Are Astro boats any good?
The answer is a conditional yes. If you have a limited budget and want to purchase a second-hand or an old model boat in good condition, I recommend you immediately go for the Astro boats.
You must be wondering why I am so persistent in buying a second-hand or old Astro. It’s because they are no longer in production.
Yes, I know, it’s a sad thing.
Read along to discover why they are no longer in production and are still so popular.
What are the Astro Boats?
Astro is a long-established boat brand known for its durable construction and high performance. It manufactures boats ranging from 17 feet to 20 feet in length.
Do you know Brunswick Corporation? It’s one of the largest boat groups in the United States. However, in 1999, Johnny Morris bought most of the shares and stopped producing Astro boats.
You can find the outboard and pontoon models of Astro boats before 2003.
Types of Boats Built by Astro
Astro focused on pursuing the traditional boating pursuit of freshwater fishing. For this very reason, they designed pontoon boats, stern boats, ski boats, and outboard boats with different fuel systems.
Astro boats are famous for their Bass boats among the rest of the boat models. These boats come with quite a shallow draft and a narrow beam.
Due to their classic and crowd-pleasing traits, they are perfect for freshwater fishing.
Why Are Astro Boats So Popular?
What sets the Astro boats apart from the rest of the boats?
It’s the level of customization they offer in their boats. Depending on your boating requirements, you can personalize the vessel from canvas to miscellaneous optional equipment.
Customization also refers to boat repowering projects. In this case, you opt for an old model and transform it into a modified version.
- Canvas offers various options, including a bimini top, boat cover, bow cover, bridge enclosure, cockpit cover, and salon enclosure. The total dimensions of the boat cover range from 7 x 14 feet to 32 x 25 feet.
- Electronics—You have myriad options, such as autopilot with or without a remote, battery charger, depth sounder, fish finder, and GPS. Other electronics include customizable inverters and radar.
- Entertainment—You can only choose between a stereo, TV, and VCR. These are old models, so you don’t have many options here.
- Fishing—This is an exciting feature. You can add a bait tank of 22 or 32 gallons. You can also opt for an electric or manual downrigger, an outrigger, a storage tackle center, and a transom live well.
- Gallery—You can add amenities according to your budget. You can have a bar/console, dishwasher, fish box, ice maker, microwave oven, cooking range, and refrigerator. Moreover, you can also include a trash compactor, washer/dryer, and water heater.
- Personal Watercraft—Includes carburetion kit, cover, high-performance exhaust, stainless steel impeller, trailer, and steering system.
Affordability
It plays a decisive factor in opting for an Astro boat. You must have heard the famous quotation, “Old is Gold.” In the case of Astro boats, gold is relatively cheaper and fits our budget.
Examples of Astro Boats
I’ll discuss four Astro models in this article to emphasize the quality of Astro boats.
Astro 18 FSX
The Astro 18 FSX, which emerged in the mid-1990s, was a versatile craft designed for avid anglers and recreational boaters.
This model boasted a sleek fiberglass hull and was powered by a reliable outboard engine, ensuring both performance and durability on the water.
Measuring approximately 18 feet in length, it offered a balanced blend of speed and stability, making it suitable for a wide range of aquatic activities.
Fishing enthusiasts were particularly fond of the 18 FSX’s equipped features, including advanced fish finders that helped locate the catch of the day and efficient trolling motors for stealthy movement in fish-rich waters.
Comfort was not overlooked, with spacious seating arrangements allowing for relaxation and enjoyment of the boating experience.
The 18 FSX represented a harmonious fusion of fishing functionality and leisurely boating, making it a popular choice among those who sought the best of both worlds.
Astro Boats 2100 SPORTFISH
The Astro 2100 Sportfish was a hallmark of versatility in the Astro Boats lineup, designed to seamlessly blend the needs of avid anglers with those seeking family-friendly recreational use.
Its robust fiberglass hull and efficient outboard engine offered stability and speed for fishing ventures and leisurely cruises.
The model featured ample live wells, extensive rod storage, and a spacious casting deck for fishing enthusiasts. It also provided comfortable seating and possibly a swim platform for family fun.
Despite Astro Boats no longer being in production, the 2100 Sportfish remains a sought-after choice in the used market, cherished for its dual-purpose design and reliable performance.
1989 Astro Quickfire 1700
It’s my personal favorite. Not because it’s cheap but because of its features.
This 1998 model features a bass boat of 17 feet in length with a Mercury 115 HP outboard engine.
What’s included in the package will surely fascinate you.
It has quicksilver controls and four stainless steel cleats. This featureful boat also includes a 74-pound trolling motor, foot pedals, and extra propellers.
Wait, the list doesn’t end here. It also features two pole holders, a livewell, a Humminbird 597CI, a bow, and transom storage.
Another essential feature of this 1989 model is its seating arrangement, which can accommodate four passengers.
You can find an additional seat between the two main seats and another in the middle of the rear deck.
It offers ample space on both decks, allowing two anglers to fish simultaneously.
What unique features set Astro Boats apart for fishing enthusiasts?
Astro Boats often include specialized fishing amenities like built-in tackle storage, rod holders, and live wells, catering specifically to anglers seeking a seamless fishing experience with added convenience and efficiency on the water.
Can Astro Boats be used for watersports, and what are their capabilities?
Specific Astro Boat models are well-suited for watersports. They offer powerful outboard engines and towing capabilities that can handle water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing, providing a versatile boating experience for adventure seekers.
What sustainability practices does Astro Boats incorporate in their manufacturing process?
Astro Boats adopts eco-friendly manufacturing practices, including using sustainable materials and waste reduction techniques, to minimize environmental impact. This reflects a commitment to conservation and responsible boating.
How does the resale value of Astro Boats compare to other brands?
Astro Boats generally maintain a substantial resale value due to their reputation for quality construction, durability, and timeless design. This makes them a wise investment for boaters looking for longevity and reliability in their purchase.
How does Astro Boats address onboard comfort and convenience for longer trips?
For extended outings, Astro Boats equips models with comfort-focused features like ergonomic seating, ample storage, and protection elements such as canopies and windshields, enhancing passengers’ overall comfort and convenience during longer water journeys.
Final Words
In conclusion, Astro boats uphold a positive reputation in the marine industry. They are exceptional in more ways than one. Their high durability makes them robust against challenging weather and harsh water conditions, ensuring a stable and safe boating experience.
Equally important is their excellent performance; Astro boats are renowned for their speed, maneuverability, and their effortless glide on water.
This superior performance and versatility make them an excellent choice for various water activities, including fishing, skiing, and cruising. But that’s not all; these boats also score high on comfort and space.
They offer ample room for passengers and storage and boast comfortable seating arrangements. Another key advantage of owning an Astro boat is its high resale value.
Even with time, these boats maintain a healthy value in the resale market, which makes them a wise investment. Despite these quality features and benefits, Astro boats are reasonably priced, making them an affordable luxury for many.
Therefore, considering all these factors, it’s safe to conclude that Astro boats provide excellent value for money and are a sound choice for casual and marine enthusiasts.
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