Boat review: Skeeter ZXR19

Editor’s note: This review comes from our friends at Boatingmag.com. These experts have decades worth of reviewing many types of boats in great detail. For more, visit Boatingmag.com.

The State of Texas is steeped in the history of the aerospace industry, which has definitely rubbed off on Skeeter Boats. Skeeter is known for its rocket ship-like bass and bay boats. The new ZXR19 bass boat is equipped with the latest power and tech to fit right into high-performance, fishing machine lineup.

The ZXR19’s composite-fiberglass hull is designed to maximize speed and safety. A flat center pad provides lift and helps the boat glide effortlessly as it accelerates to speeds over 70 mph. The hull also features a combination of primary and secondary reverse chines, as well as turning chines and lifting strakes that provide stability and prevent the chine-walking tendencies that can intimidate novice drivers. Skeeter touts the ability to make 90-degree turns at speed without slippage. We didn’t try that.

Skeeter marries the hull to a lightweight yet structurally rugged aluminum deck and stringer system. So the boat is solid and secure underway or when standing on one of the casting platforms during a tournament. The “Aluminum Torque Transfer System” adds strength and rigidity to the transom which has no problem carrying the standard Yamaha VMAX SHO 225. A 12-inch manual jackplate comes standard but you can upgrade to a hydraulic jack plate for $1,820.

Ready to fish? The ZXR comes standard with a Humminbird Helix 12 at the helm and a Helix 9 up on the bow so you can scout while working the standard Minn Kota Fortrex 112 trolling motor with a 45-inch shaft. There’s oodles of bow and tackle stowage hidden in the bow casting deck, and a recirculating, aerated livewell for your baits and catch.

Oh yeah, you know what else comes standard with the ZXR19? The Skeeter-built trailer. You can drive it off the dealer lot straight to the lake and get right down to bass fishing. So get going.

High points

  • Standard Hot Foot Throttle gives you foot-pedal control of your speed and acceleration.
  • Minn Kota Fortrex 12 trolling motor comes standard.
  • Eight total color scheme options to choose from.
  • Huge list of standards make this boat ready to fish right out of the gate.

Specs:
LOA: 19’10”
Beam: 8’1”
Draft (max): 1’4”
Dry Weight: 2,100 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: 5/737
Fuel Capacity: 44 gal.
Livewell Capacity: 36 gal.
Available Power: Yamaha outboards to 225 hp

Price: $76,140 (base)

Skeeter Boats
Kilgore, Texas; skeeterboats.com