Im looking to buy a 20 to 24 foot bay boat this spring. I was looking at the sea chaser and sea fox. I want something with a deep V that can take the waves with out a problem. I would like something that I can run 20 mile or so offshore for snapper and not worry to much, but still want to be able to run the bays. Any one have a bay boat? If so what kind and what do you like and dislike about it.

no such animal to have a boat that will run 20 miles or so offshore and take the water and then fish the marshes. To go offshore, you should be looking at no less than dual motors. Dual motors is more for safety than anything else. Nothing like travelling 20 miles offshore and having motor problems with your only motor. Atleast with a 2nd motor you can limp back in or the 2nd motor can keep you facing into the waves until it passes.

Can it be done, yes. Should it be done often, I wouldn't suggest it. I have a 19' Fishmaster that I went to Grand Isle 59 in and fished. That trip I had my eye on the sky 99% of the time. Then still, we had to make a run back in as a thunderstorm was kicking up and got caught in it (Caminada Pass was NOT fun that time!!!). I have a friend in Venice who has a 24' bayboat and he travels offshore here and there to fish deeper water. So, yes it can be done.


Now, maybe a Gator Bay would be your option (they are the only bay boat with dual motors), but even still, no "bay boat" style hull will handle the open water like an offshore boat will.



I'm not trying to get you away from getting a boat and I don't know your past history with boats, but just stating things that I know being my past history around offshore fishing.

I have a 24' Triton LTS Pro. The boat has alot of dry storage and in my opinion handles the rough seas really well. The only think I dislike is that I should have went with the 300 instead of the 250 Suzuki outboard.

I have fished offshore all my life
My grandpaw had a 40' post when I was still in grade school then moved down to a CC with twins
Iam looking for something that I can make 20 mile runs on good days and watch the weather

I have a 24' Shearwater and love it. I used to have a Champion and would never go back. As for a bay boat going 20 miles offshore will not happen on most days. You need to pick your day. I run out to the platforms every now and then but keep a close eye on my radar. You have to pick what you will do more of. Bay or offshore and get the boat made to do it.

I will text you pictures tomorrow.

It will be with paint..

Seachasers all the way, we have one with a 250 yamaha 4 stroke

I was going to mention the 25 footer from Champion, but it seems that they have had a hard last 2 years. Seems Genmar went bankrupt in 2009. Which made Champion, Stratos, Ranger & Fincraft.

However, after going to a few boat shows this past few years, I've noticed that Blue Wave has the best layouts, and surface on the decking. Also they seem to be reasonably priced.

Looking at the same thing myself, ive about decided on Blazer bay 2400, but need to sell 18' maverick flats boat first.

I have a 22' Ranger Bay, ive taken in 25+ miles offshore of panama City several times. Just have to pick your days. and on the way in pick my bait trap and catch some reds in the shallows. Dont object, i dont have time to lie!
With that said, you will take waves over the bow, no worry it will drain if you dont STOP.

The 2400 Blazer Bay is a good boat , I take mine offshore all the time and guide with it inshore. It has a lot of room in the front that allows you to put a large fish box when you go offshore.

pathfinder, hewes, or mavrick, (all the same co.) had one at one time. they advertised it for just that in-shore/ off-shore boat.

24' Pathfinder...

Pathfinder is some great looking books but i hope your pockets are deep!