Drift Boats (Willie vs. Riverwolf)

skippy · 02-21-2005, 09:04 AM

I looking at either a Willie 17' or a Riverwolf. I'll probably put either an 8 or 9.9 on the back when needed. Does anyone have any comments/suggestions on either.

blackdog · 02-21-2005, 09:39 AM

Let's see, Willie has been making driftboats for over 30 years and is pretty much the innovator behind the design of today's modern driftboats. Riverwolf has been in business for how many years?

That being said, I've never rowed a Riverwolf boat and I would guess they make a decent boat. However, I do personally own a 17' Willie and I love it and it rows like a dream. Lifetime warranty on the hull gives me pretty good sense of security as well.

Orion · 02-21-2005, 10:06 AM

Skippy,

You will probably get a whole bunch of recommendations on what to buy. Most of the recommendations will be for the brand of boat the individual making the recommendation happens to own at the time. This can become a Chevy, Ford or Dodge kind of thing in very short order. If you have the time, you should try to row a number of boats yourself. Driftboat owners come in various shapes, sizes, and rowing skill levels. They all have different goals and objectives for their boat. They may fish only two people while others will fish up to four or more at a time. The bottom line is to do your own homework and rowing various boats will help you make the right choice for you. I have two drift boats right now. One is wood and the other is aluminum. Brand names aside, both boats have their place and both boats have always gotten me home. Best of luck in your search.

Orion

jet · 02-21-2005, 04:13 PM

I always look at resale value. Which boat has the best resale? That is the one I would pick.

Jet~~~

Musicman · 02-22-2005, 02:30 AM

I've been in willies and recently a riverwolf. I was impressed how welll layed out the wolf was, great construction. Willies are too. Just because willies was the db innovator doesn't mean there aren't comparable boats out there. Witht that said, i agree with the previous post about doing your homework and row a few for good measure. You'll be able to tell when you found the right one. Happy hunting!