Grady 225

[Ratshot]

Hello all, I live in Hatteras, NC. And was wondering if a grady 225 would be an acceptable choice for gulfstream fishing off Hatteras? Boat would only be used on reasonable weather days. Looking for real world experience on this type of boat and how it handles when the weather gets snotty? Thanks

 

[SeanC]

This is a question without a simple answer. A lot of people underestimate what a small boat is capable of. It’s more about knowing your boat and getting confidence in it. Start with shorter trips. Go out in some snotty weather and see how the boat performs. You don’t want you first bad weather experience when you are miles offshore. Even if you only go out on reasonable weather days you will be caught out. We had a 15kn dropping 5kn forecast turn into a 25kn gusting to 30 kn. The big boys at the light tackle were heading for home because it was just too uncomfortable. We were 60km offshore In a 17 ft aluminium c/c. Was it a long slow trip home? Yes. Would I feel safer if I was in my 228? Not really as I didn’t feel unsafe. Would we have gotten back more quickly and in more comfort in the 228? Definitely. Drive to the conditions. You will know when you are ready to head out to the gulfstream. Your boat is more capable than you think.

 

[SmokyMtnGrady]

the 225 is a capable boat . the 228 shares the same hull and bracket set up. I fish often 20,30, 40 offshore and I find the ocean the easy part. it's going through the inlet at times when I picked. lol. Oregon Inlet is one of those nortorious inlets on the entire east coast. once you are through there it can be an easy day.lol. I have never been out of Oregon . I did run my 228 out of Beaufort twice . Anyway, the 225 is quite capable on good days . Learn the boat and gain confidence. Take her out .

 

[Vlabruzzo]

Choose your days. I have a 225g tourney. I just got it and ran it 10 miles out a couple weeks ago