Need some helpful input

[Encore 280]

Ok I'm boat shopping cuz the Ol Olympic is too small. I've been looking at the 17-19' aluminum boats because of the open bow and the ease of anchoring and a little extra storage space forward. The only thing that I haven't liked about the alums is the controls are too far forward and seems like more of a rough ride in a chop. I don't like the idea of being that low and that far forward when it gets a bit choppy out. I've been stuck in some snot down at Willapa a couple times and was glad I had the higher closed bow on the Olympic. Now I found an open bow 17' Arima that I'm going to look at. I like the Arima due to the fact it has an 8' beam, more storage space and nice bow on it. The first thing I'll have to do is get another E-Tec . I've never owned an aluminum one or an Arima so any input would be appreciated. Thanks

[Rick]

Arimas don't have much deadrise and aren't known for a smooth ride.

[Encore 280]

Deadrise or no, you can only go so fast in a 17' boat, glas or aluminum in a chop before things start falling apart.

[HUNTINCOUPLE]

Might search your topic over on Ifish.net....

[KopperBuck]

Sounds like we're using them for different applications, but I can't stand aluminum if there's any wind...

[Encore 280]

About the only negative thing I've about the Arimas is the fact ya gotta slow down in a chop, well if a person has any common sense ya have to  pretty much slow down in a chop anyway. I'm talking Willapa Bay chop at tide change with some wind, up to a 4' chop sometimes. I'm thinkin if they still have the boat then I'll buy it and bring it home Wednesday. Thanks guys.

[kenzmad]

Get up here and I will take you for a ride. The right aluminium boat doesnt beat you up. I use mine for lings,salmon and butts. Also a perch fishing machine. I am more comfortable in mine than I was in my trophy. Northwest Jet 218 lightning.

[Button Nubbs]

A friend of mine has a 19' arima we fish out of all the time. Very nice boat.

[Come Get Some]

Arima's are a cork. They are a little rough riding but very sea worthy. You can loose power in rough seas and the boat will not breach in the trough. Defiance bought Arima last year. I do not know how the warrarty will be.