Boating with family requires some flexibility, and that’s the goal of the new Alumacraft Competitor 185 FSX. This aluminum crossover model retains all of the angling features of the popular Competitor line, and adds extras designed to make the boat more comfortable and versatile on days when fishing is not the top priority.
Start at the aft casting deck, where a reinforced socket for an optional ski tow pylon ($366) is in place for those days when watersports fun is on the agenda. That pylon can be conveniently stowed in a dedicated space in the starboard inwale locker. Soft foam mats on the aft deck corners will prove easy on the knees of your crew when reboarding the boat. The FSX package also includes a pair of handy jump seats that flip up from the aft platform. These boast 21-inch-high backrests and enough legroom for real comfort. To accommodate the jump seats, the FSX has a new 22-gallon dual-access livewell with a smaller center lid and a larger cover under the starboard seat. Finally, the Competitor 185 FSX comes with on-the-go rod racks to starboard, and updated upholstery with added color and attractive contrast stitching. Consider adding the comfort of optional bow deck cushions ($606) and console backrest cushions ($155), and you’ll be set for lounging at the sandbar while enjoying tunes from the standard Infinity audio system.
The FSX features do not diminish this boat’s angling prowess. The dual consoles are topped with a full windshield for outstanding weather protection. There’s an 18-gallon livewell in the bow deck, locking rod stowage under the walk-through, a 13-gallon insulated cooler compartment to port, and four tackle drawers. The optional digital dash ($2,001) replaces analog gauges with a Lowrance Elite 7 display, and the bow is pre-wired for electronics. The Alumacraft 2XB design adds a second plate of aluminum within the one-piece hull for added strength, durability and a solid, quiet ride. The extruded aluminum gunwales support the Alumatrac System, accessories for which include rod holders and tool pouches. This boat is ready to fish—and ski—in style.
High Points
- Fish-and-ski model that does not compromise fishability. For instance, its 22-gallon livewell proved as large as that aboard a 34-foot center-console we tested.
- Lots of locking stowage aboard this boat, whether for your rods or your gear.
- Jump seats that fit our tester’s 6-foot-tall frame. They will not torture your passengers, and fold away when not needed.
- Rock-solid construction with a double-bottom hull provides confidence and durability.
Specs
LOA: 18′8″
Beam: 7′11″
Draft: NA
Dry Weight: 1,500 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: 6/1,600 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 34 gal.
Price: $41,187 (as tested with Shoreland’r trailer)
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury Pro XS 150
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 14″ x 19″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 2.08:1
Fuel Load: 16 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
More Information
Alumacraft Boats – St. Peter, Minnesota; 507-931-1050; alumacraft.com
