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Vinsil's avatar
Vinsil
Explorer
Jun 03, 2016

Jet sled boats

Have been wanting one for a few years. Thinking about one, but I'm not boat guy. I grew up with the owner of Rogue Marine, so I know Matt builds a quality sled. I know the name North River and it has a good rep from a few co-workers.

Any advice? How much weight can I expect from a 20-23 footer? I'm comfortable with 6-7k but no more. Any advice on where to look, what to avoid, ect? I plan to pay a surveyer for inspection..especially with a river boat.

Thanks...I know this is getting off track but TC guys can be boat guys.

26 Replies

  • I have a 20' Rogue Marine Pro Steelheader with a 5.7 engine.
    When new, it weighed 2200lbs. It now weighs a little under 3000lbs, with down riggers 4 batteries, bow mounted trolling motor,T-8 Yamaha trolling motor, radios,bow/stern anchors and gear.
    Bought mine direct from Matt at Rouge Marine in Merlin.With the trailer, I sit at 4500lbs with 40 gallons of fuel.
    I bought the boat in 2008, no problems so far other than driver error. I tore the top off and broke all the windows on the lower Rogue river. I have since installed a high thrust nozzle to the jet. This lowered my top speed a little, but I get on step in less than 2 boat length.

  • I tow a 20' aluminum boat like a sled, just have a windshield and a top. I'm only about 3k rolling down the road.
    I highly recommend Hewescraft and North River, both make a great boat. Can't go wrong with either and they both make sleds. I would also consider Alumaweld. They are very popular down your way and make a LOT of boats. Clemens Marine in Oregon is a good place to shop, talk to Chris in Gladstone.
  • We have a 20' Hewescraft 302 Redline behind either our 2001 Bounder 36' or our 1999 Durango. No problems with either.
  • I am dragging a 21ft northwest jet on a gateway trailer, total wieght about 5500 lbs. Hauling a artic fox 811. That's why I drive a F350 dually a little more stable than my old F350 swr The boat is a inboard 454 .....hope this helps
  • I'm surprised the boat people haven't spoke up yet.

    Check www.boattrader.com or Craigslist. Or dealers in your area.