Smokercraft 162 Pro Angler XL Boat Test Notes

View the Smoker Craft Pro Angler XL Video Boat Review

Overview: A serious fishboat for serious anglers.

Concept
Build a freshwater fishboat that can handle open waters, and multiple varieties of fishing.



Construction

• Twice-baked urethane paint job over an aluminum hull.


• Lifetime-guaranteed pressure-treated ply decking, with a non-skid coating.


• Heavy-duty carpet carries a five-year warranty.

• Fuel economy is excellent with better than seven miles to the gallon, at cruising speeds in the mid and upper 20’s.


• Sharp entry handles waves well.

• Crank the wheel hard-over at high speeds, and this hull grabs and banks like it’s on rails – sweet!


• Watch out for the safety lanyard when reaching changing speeds; it’s position causes it to drape across the throttle at times.

• Look at that hullside finish; it’s every bit as slick and shiny as gel coat.


• Whopping 25-gallon livewell in the foredeck has enough volume to support a week’s supply of bait.


• Love the comfy seats.

Written by: Lenny Rudow

With over two decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to publications including YachtWorld, boats.com, Boating Magazine, Marlin Magazine, Boating World, Saltwater Sportsman, Texas Fish & Game, and many others. Lenny is a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design, and he has won numerous BWI and OWAA writing awards.