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Do you use a Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit for fishing (towing a boat) and hunting?

804 views 10 replies 11 participants last post by  RP2kids  
Currently reading this from Grouse camp, which is my Sprinter van parked in a remote, scenic location in northern Washington. I love hunting from my van. I like hunting on the move - never set up a base camp that I come back to each night. For years I did this out of the back of my truck. I’ve evolved to appreciate comfort I guess.

I’ve got a 2020 4WD Mercedes 144 high roof. I bought it mostly complete, but have made several upgrades myself. They’re like building ARs - a million different options and all pretty easy to do yourself if you have the time. There are far more options available for Mercedes than Ford or Dodge from what I’ve seen.

I don’t have a built in toilet, shower, or hot water. I do have a water pump and rear outdoor shower which is nice (maybe not super nice in the winter). I work remote, so added Starlink (makes it possible to hunt grouse during a work week - and watch MNF while I write this far from cell reception). My van has upgraded suspension (Agile RIP Kit) and oversized tires. One of my biggest surprises was how capable of a 4WD it is - way more confident driving it off-road than my Ford F-350.

I haven’t pulled my boat with it yet, but with the beefed up suspension I don’t think it would be an issue aside from being a little underpowered. I found out 2 weeks ago that it will easily accommodate an elk!

There are lots of builders in Portland and the PNW. They’re pretty proud of them and their prices reflect that. I broadened my search and found one down in Arizona. It would have cost $20K+ more in Portland. Check out VanLife Trader.

i live in Wilsonville - would be happy to meet up sometime.

Chris
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