Bowrider: Tahoe Q7 SF
About This Boat: For all-around family versatility, it’s tough to beat a fish-and-ski, and Tahoe’s Q7 SF ranks as one of the very best for under $30,000. The Q7 offers anglers stowable fore and aft fishing chairs, raised casting decks, starboard-side rod storage and an aerated livewell, while a tow ring and ski locker are just begging to be put to use by skiers. A full-width swim platform with a fold-down boarding ladder makes getting in and out of the water a snap, while a sun deck with a removable pad provides a great place to soak up some rays while watching all the action unfold — be it jumping fish or a skier jumping wakes.
Fun Factor: The Q7’s standard 4.3-liter MerCruiser stern-drive cranks out 190 ponies, providing a more-than-adequate power supply for either running to the next honey hole or pulling a skier in the wake.
You Get: A wide range of standard features, including in-floor wakeboard or ski stowage, a MotorGuide 54-pound-thrust, foot-controlled trolling motor, Lowrance digital depth finder and an AM/FM/CD stereo with MP3 jack.
Price: $27,995 (with 4.3-liter 190 hp MerCruiser)
Specs: LOA: 20'6" Beam: 8'0" Draft: 1'11" Displacement: 2,800 lb. Deadrise: 20 degrees Fuel Capacity: 45 gal. Max. Horsepower: 300
Contact: Tahoe Sport Boats; Springfield, Missouri; 417-873- 4555; tahoesportboats.com
Test Data: Tahoe Q7 SF
Photos: Tahoe Q7 SF
Not Only That! Those interested in a tough, multiuse boat that can also help extend the season might consider Crestliner’s 1800 Super Hawk. Packaged with a 150 hp Mercury Optimax and trailer, it goes for $29,995.
