View Full Version : Willie Foward Helm Predator
Anybody out there have one?
I'm leaning towards an outboard jet and not the sports jet.
What size boat and motor do you have? Likes / Dislikes?
Thanks
OB1
HntnFsh
05-30-2007, 03:01 PM
The Suzy Q is a 1998 20' forward helm predator with a 175 SJ.Heres a pic of her with the top off. Its not the best pic but its what I had handy.
http://www.ifish.net/gallery/data/500/medium/Suzy_Q_Small_.jpg
For the type of fishing we do its hard to beat.On the hook in the Cow or Columbia its very comfy during those cool wet days.Especially with the top up and heater on.
Its not ideal but I also strip it down and free drift the Cowlitz with it.
For us its just a good all around boat.The motor has never left us stranded.Its a little loud but not that bad.Plenty of power with 4 people and gear.
The doghouse takes up a little room.But I deal with it.
Theyve all got their pros and cons.Just depends on what your using it for as to what they are.
We are very happy with our set up.
Hntnfsh
Beautiful lady and a nice looking boat.
Thanks for the input.
How is it for back trolling?
Thanks
OB
HntnFsh
05-31-2007, 08:18 AM
These boats track excellent.
Running the kicker is harder cause your further away from it.So you need a short extension
My next kicker will have power trim and shift in the handle.That would really help.
FrogPond
05-31-2007, 04:30 PM
willie predators are a staple on the Kenai, where backtrolling is the primary way of fishing.
freespool
05-31-2007, 05:26 PM
I've got a forward helm Predator with a outboard.
If fishing is your primary mission, then go outboard, the extra room is really nice when fishing four.
I removed my aft seats and seat boxs, and went with folding chairs, more room, plus I can set up two roll-a-cots under the camperback.
Thanks to everyone who responded.
Now have to figure out what size, 18 or 20 footer and 4 stoke or 2 stroke engine.
Again Thanks!
OB1
freespool
06-01-2007, 01:53 PM
20fter, with a 200 4 stroke.:dance:
foxer
06-01-2007, 02:27 PM
Picture! Picture!
Freespool, how about a picture?
Thanks
OB1
Anymore Willie FH Predators out there in an outboard.
Pictures please. I'm dieing to see your baby!
Thank you
OB1
FROGGY
06-06-2007, 05:18 PM
Ive got an 18' forward helm with 115 2 stroke outboard prop. Love it. Took out the rear seats as well. With 3 people I cruise at about 35mph at 3800rpm. Maxed out I can hit 45mph. Gets on plane quick. If I put on a pump I know the hole shot would be slow. If I got a new motor I would get the 140hp suzuki 4stroke.
The only thing I wish is that is was 2 feet longer. Also, when filling the tank it burps fuel unless I pump it slow. Its an older boat so I am sure that problem is fixed now days.
I will try to dig up a pic.
Two more things I would like... top load rod lockers, gunnel rail all the way around.
I'm stopping by the Willie factory on Friday to see what will fill my needs.
Any pictures of your outboard FH predator would be great.
thanks
OB1