Came back with something from the show...

steelymann · 02-05-2004, 05:09 PM

Well, I finally did it. Walked right in to the show last night and put my money down on a 17x60 Willie drifter. Been wanting a drift boat since I first saw one when I was 5. I've been going through the pro's and con's of all the drifters for the last god knows how many years and came to the only conclusion. If you want a baot that rows like a Wille, get a Willie. So 33 years later, I finally get down to it. After banking all these years this is a totally new option for me, can't wait! Use to row a buddy's wood boat with 4" of fiberglass slapped on the bottom so this one should be a piece of cake. 5 weeks till pickup. Hope to get some ifishers in there for a trip or 10. Will put up pics when it arrives! YEEEHAAAAA!!!!

~Steelymann~

RogueFishr · 02-05-2004, 05:14 PM

Congrats!

You won't be disapointed with your choice of boats.

RF

Drachir · 02-05-2004, 05:19 PM

Cograts on the DB purchase!!! Willie makes a really fine DB. I've been rowing DB's for 33 years and you'll love your new view of the rivers ou fish. Now you'll need to learn a whole new way to seek out your quarry, Good Luck!!! :grin:

go fisch · 02-05-2004, 05:24 PM

steelymann
You got the best drift boat. Use to have a Willie DB. Enjoy---Good Fishing

DownTime · 02-05-2004, 05:25 PM

Congrats S-man You are gonna have some fun now!Enjoy! [img]graemlins/applause.gif[/img]

sparse gray hackle · 02-05-2004, 05:25 PM

Con-Grats Seelymann Great Boat!!Willie

Call when your are coming Down and Amby we Can Fish

fop · 02-05-2004, 05:54 PM

"Simply the best"

Without a doubt.

What options did ya get?

fop

steelymann · 02-05-2004, 06:20 PM

Let see. I got the 60" bottom that comes with their guide special and got a galvanized trailer with spare. I had them put on the clear coat inside and coat it. They are putting the pipe underneath for the heater but besides that (and one color paint) I kept it pretty plain. Of course i got a cover to protect my investment. I'm still debating on the anchor coming straight off the back or off to the side for a motor. They claim it moves around when anchored in FAST water. Not sire how fast of water I may anchor in so thats still up in the air. Been buying plugs and got my plugs rods over the last year in anticipation. That 60" has SO much room! Can't wait!

~steelymann~

:smile: :smile:

02-05-2004, 07:02 PM

Who sold it to you?

Slade · 02-05-2004, 07:11 PM

I bought a Willie's last spring, and I have my anchor offset. I have had no problems despite being anchored in some pretty fast water at times. The offset really keeps your options open even if you don't own a kicker yet. It moves a little, but I can't say it moves that much more than boats with the anchor centered. Just let a little more rope out.

SPAZZ · 02-05-2004, 07:12 PM

Grantspastor · 02-05-2004, 07:32 PM

You will love that boat! I wouldn't worry about the offset anchor. I used to think it would be a problem too until I put a motor on mine and needed to move the anchor. I can't appreciate any difference, and I have spent a bunch of time in drift boats.

Hunter56787 · 02-05-2004, 07:50 PM

Congrats on your new Willie! I want a drifter, but "Da Boss" says NO

Hunter

steelymann · 02-06-2004, 03:29 PM

The guy's name I bought the boat from is
Jim Bittle. He seems like a real solid guy. Changed my mind for the better on some options. The boat actually cost me alot lesds his way. Can't wait to get it! If there is some water I'm not familiar with and some of you guys want a ride, let me know. Now to decide on a color. Any ideas?

~steelymann~

TillamookChinook · 02-06-2004, 04:09 PM

Steelyman,
Does this mean you will have to change your moniker to "AlumaMan"?

TC

steelymann · 02-06-2004, 04:21 PM

Naw, Just Mann with a Willie :smile:

Mike "steely" Mann

aka steelymann