265 as a bay boat?

[OBXTucker]

I have a 265 express on my short list of possible boats and would like some opinions from those that have/had them. I'm comfortable with the dead rise being great for offshore, but realistically I'll probably only use it offshore 10-20% of the time. Does the 265 have too much dead rise to spend most of her life trolling/drifting the lower and middle Chesapeake Bay?

Thanks for your opinions.

 

[NOTHING ELSE MATTERS]

Not at all. She is a great boat for both.

 

[Lucky13]

Not at all. Just got a 265 and absolutely love it.

 

[drbatts]

she is at home in both offshore and inshore waters. I have caught some of my biggest bass off the boat in under 10ft of water. I will routinely take my boat within a couple feet of the beach when we are hanging out on the local islands.

 

[SmokyMtnGrady]

You know hazardous seas often happen with afternoon storms on inland lakes, bays and so forth. I would much have more boat under me than a typical open "bay boat". Now if you are flats fishing in south Florida, then get a flats boat, but other than that, the 265 would be an awesome cruising boat on many inland lakes, rivers and coastal bays.

 

[OBXTucker]

Thanks for the comments and replies. This downsize is going to be a little culture shock as I'm moving down from a 58 Hatteras. I'm comfortable cruising on all waters, so I'm not concerned about the storm cells and weather. Looking for something smaller, faster and able to handle all waters in the right conditions (I don't see myself taking this offshore in steep 5-7's). occasional trailering is also a requirement (spring and fall).

Sounds like this will fit the bill nicely. All other comments are welcome!

 

[tilewave]

its a versatile boat geared towards fishing.( large fish box, large live well, no swim platform , tackle station) theres been many times my tackle station has been turned into a wet bar. while its no 58' hatteras i have been caught with my pants down offshore in true 4-6 seas and made home in one piece.

 

[Fowl Hooked]

I've run mine in those same waters for the last two years trolling and drifting and love it. Have had many comments from buddies with bigger boats who have been very impressed with my boat, the layout and space, the ride and the 'fishability' both trolling and on the drift. Heavy but easily trailered behind a diesel.

 

[tilewave]

to answer your exact question, in my opinion. yes this boat may have too much deadrise for mainly bay use. i think you can find a more stable drifting boat for your needs. your welcome to come out on mine if ever in the area - john