1976 Aquasport 170 "offshore"

[76aqua170]

Hey guys! I just joined here after stalking some threads trying to learn about these more. I just made an offer on a decent 1976 170 with no motor that I plan to throw my Force 85hp on. I have been looking for some specific stories or info from owners of the 170 to see if anyone has ever gone off the coast in the keys or similar in this boat. My goal is to have a decent smaller dive and fishing boat that can both run around the shallower creeks and what not where i live in North Florida, as well as make it about 3-4 miles off the coast of the keys to get to the reef. My main concern after seeing the boat is how low the transom is. Other than that, i really like the shape of it and it is ready to get wet with the new engine on it. Versus the delamed 17ft McKee Craft i have been working on.

Any insight or stories is helpful! Thanks!

[mshugg]

I had a 1986 170 that I fished offshore out of Port Canaveral.  Most of my time was spent between the reefs 80-90ft and about 120ft. That’s about 15 - 20 miles out.   With the shallow v and short waterline, you have to pick your day, and slow down when conditions warrant.  The transom cut out is low, and the scuppers did allow some water on the aft deck, but it remained self bailing.

I’m not reccomending that you do what I did.  I was young and stupid.  The 170 feels really small when you can’t see land.  It is small, and you have little margin for error.  Make sure that everything is in good condition and you have all the safety gear. 

The good news is; you can catch a lot of fish in the Keys without making such a long run.  The 170 should be perfect for fishing the patch reefs out to the reef line(and beyond on calm days). It will fish shallow, so you can fish the backcountry too. 

[boatnamesue]

I have the '76 170...how far you go offshore will be completely contingent upon the weather.  Calm seas you can take the boat out as far as your fuel allows for there and back.  Sloppy seas you can expect to take water over transom...but it's a self bailing hull, should you choose to use it as such.  No one with half a boat brain could dispute that hull is incredibly seaworthy...if it weren't it wouldn't be one of the most common restored hulls.  Feel confident you're in a world renowned hull.  Have fun!

[76aqua170]

Thanks guys! You're crazy mshugg hahaha! But it definitely makes me feel more confident. The plan is to pick her up today!