Dad has visions of owning a serious fishing rig. Mom thinks about hitting the water this summer in an energetic sport boat. The kids are into both. But what’s most important in today’s economy is how much use you can get out of your investment on a middle-class budget.
After our time with the newest Trophy from Alumacraft, it became clear that it hits a bull’s-eye for all of the above. The conversion bow demonstrates this versatility. Within seconds, it switches from a bowrider with backrests to a spacious casting deck with a pedestal chair. The conversion required zero assembly or loose parts when we used it.
Another reason this Trophy satisfies everybody is because it’s big, with a layout that makes the most of the space. The four pedestal chairs are nicely spaced. If more passengers are coming along, two flip-up jump seats come standard too.
We tested the Trophy with a quiet Honda 225. It’s a good match, and it looked great, with its silver color complementing the aluminum hull. At 50 mph we trimmed the engine down, turned her sharp and opened wide-mouth smiles because of the way the Trophy bit into the turn. We were equally pleased with the boat’s soft ride compared with the “hard” feel of some aluminum boats we’ve tested. For most boaters, 50 mph is just a nice number and not a requirement. In that case, a more-economical 175 would be just fine (and make the family’s budget a little happier too).
Key Note: For those who fish and boat on big water or rocky lakes, the Trophy’s twin-plated hull is capable of handling rollers and some hazards.
Standout Features
• New side rod locker is accessible from the top to make it easier to get your gear. It includes tubes and handles 8-foot rods.
• Bimini top with quick-connect hardware is great protection from the hot sun or cold rain. It stows out of the way when not in use.
• It’s set up for a kicker with a side plate and fuel inlet, since many anglers want a secondary trolling motor at the stern.
Vital Stats
* Length Overall: 20’8″
* Beam: 8’2″
* Dry Weight(boat only): 1,915 lb.
* Seating/Weight Capacity: 9/ 2,350 lb.
* Fuel Capacity: 60 gal.
* Maximum HP: 225
* MSRP (as tested w/Honda 225): $39,875
* NMMA Certified: Yes
Test Drive
* Test Engine: Honda 225
* Test Load: People (330 lb.); Fuel (30 gal.)
* Top Speed: 51 mph @ 6,200 rpm
* Time to Plane: 2.5 sec
* Time to 30 MPH: 6.0 sec.
* Minimum Planing Speed: 17 mph @ 2,800 rpm
