What Classic Aquasport Best Fits My Needs?

[WildLines]

I have the burning itch to refurbish an Aquasport.  I have never done a boat before, but have been a boater for several years and have experience with Fiberglass (Shape Surfboards from Garage).

My question is what Aquasport Model would best fit my needs,  I live in Jacksonville, FL and I want a boat for fishing the Jetties/Inlet, Intra Coastal and Feeder Creeks, not offshore fishing.  I don't need a boat that gets Super Skinny, but would like to get one with no more than say 12-15 inches of draft.

I appreciate any direction and Ideas that anyone can offer.

Thanks!

[Poon-Time]

Most people tend to go with the older style 22-2 Osprey's.  Some like the flatback's but I tend to like the 73' and up year's.  They have a 12 deg. deadrise in them for a little smoother ride.  The 170 Osprey's are also nice but the 222 will still get into 12 inches of water and handle the rougher stuff out at the jetties.  Good Luck.

[RickK]

If I had to do it again I think I would go with a little later model than I have right now.  My 71 has a very narrow beam, approx 6ft, and I think the later models have more width, making it easier to get by the center console and more stable.  Also, the 170 is ideal for no more than 2 people cast fishing any type of structure - I guess deep sea fishing you could have a few more.  Even though I've had mine out 10 miles (a little scary), I think it is mainly an inland boat, where she really shows her stuff.
My $.02

[scott_gunn]

I would say an Osprey 222, 200, or 170.  They will all go really shallow.  If you'll be going out alone or with just one other person then maybe the 170 would be best.  Cheaper, less fuel, easier to trailer, easier to handle with trolling motor, etc.

If you will be carrying family and friends down the intracoastal, you may want to step up to a bigger size then.

[WildLines]

Thanks for all the ideas.  I am in the infancy stages of puttign a plan together. There are a few boats in my area that I plan to look at, they may be perfect canidates for being redone.

I am a little concerned that the project may be over my head, but at the same time I like a good challenge!

[John Jones]

If you are a decent handyman and can read and learn it's not over your head.  However, restorations usually take about 2.7 times the hours and money you first estimated.  

[Argo]

you mean 7.2 times?

[Mr. Osprey]

If you go with the 170 Osprey, you won't be disapointed. I like it and it's a blast to use.

[John Jones]

you mean 7.2 times?

 
Yeah, it's looking that way.  Every time I turn around, I find something else that doesen't necessarily have to be done but that I would like to do.  

Oh well, it keeps me off the streets.

[Argo]

My boat is still at paint.  I expect it back in a couple weeks or so.  I told him I was not in a hurry and he took me serious.  thats alright though, I got a good deal and just want it to look pretty.