The demands of an angler on a multispecies boat are many. It must be spacious, weather tough and able to handle techniques ranging from trolling to casting to live-baiting. The Hudson 170 DLX WS supplies the answer for everything in a sporty and easily trailerable package that, when rigged with a Mercury 150 Pro XS, flies like a rocket ship.
Our test boat climbed onto plane in a nimble 3.5 seconds and reached 30 mph in less than 7 seconds en route to a 52-mph top speed. While we conducted testing on a crisp fall day, the stout windshield kept us protected from the elements, including any stray spray from hitting lake chop. It performed in turns and S-curves just like a little sports car.
The performance numbers are all well and good—but we know you’re buying this boat to fish.
Anglers will want to upgrade to our test boat’s TFT package, which stands for “tournament fishing team,” and includes features such as the graphics package, upgraded bucket seats at the consoles, a nifty slide-out fishing ruler, fast-access rod stowage and flush-mounted seat bases, among other notable highlights.
Once you’re ready to fish, you’ll appreciate the nonslip vinyl that covers the decking. It’s more rugged and easier to maintain than carpet. One of the coolest features is Princecraft’s optional flip-down seating on the aft platform.
You can flip it down for a larger casting platform, flip it up for twin passenger seats with cup holders, or completely remove it to gain more cockpit space. It makes the boat extremely adaptable to your fishing needs and crew. The secure rod locker in the deck leading up to the bow platform can hold up to 10 of your favorite rods.
Princecraft prerigs the bow to support the 24-volt trolling motor of your choice; our test boat came rigged with a quality Minn Kota 70.
The 20-gallon livewell in the transom sits next to a cutout for a minnow bucket. The combination ensures that you can bring aboard all the bait you’d need for your next fishing trip. On this boat, you’ll be happy to fish all day—until you catch your limit or the last minnow is gone.
High Points
⋅The helm has space to flush mount an MFD.
⋅Aft casting platform hides a livewell and space to store a minnow bucket.
⋅Prince Track system allows for easily adding on amenities such as downriggers, rod holders or a fillet table.
Specs
LOA: 17′10″
Beam: 7′7″
Draft (max): 2′9″
Dry Weight: 1,430 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: 6/1,510 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 25 gal.
Price: $27,873 (base)
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury 150 Pro XS
Drive/Prop: Outboard/14 1/2″ x 19″ 3-blade aluminum
Gear Ratio: 2.08:1
Fuel Load: 20 gal.
Crew Weight: 360 lb.
More Information
Princecraft Boats – Princeville, Quebec, Canada; 800-395-8858; princecraft.com
