Osprey vs Kiwi vs Stabi vs Frewza

Awesome reply fizfisho - thank you

I have decided on the Osprey 520c for all the reasons you outlined above - totally agree on the transom and dead rise design - add 5mm hull std

I contemplated the 565 and the 545 KK but want to keep it on the smaller side for single handed launch/retreive

I didn't want a ht as already have the one pictured above for going out wide and multi nighters - prefer the cuddy with a bimini for the day missions and better visibility with the kids in the water

I guess with regards to my comment about alloy doing everything a glass will but a glass not doing everything an alloy will - for my particular set of circumstances not fishing out wide but hitting the local islands fishing in and around the rocks and foul ground alloy just a little better suited for that imo and a little more confidence inspiring - the alloys give better load capacity as well - limits seem to be at about 375-400kg in the glass at that size vs twice that in the alloy - i think the 520 osprey is rated to 8? adult - 5 max in the same size glass...

Price is comparable between Osprey and KK - Stabi more exxy, nice spec and finishes but lesser design - Frewza great value but lesser design and spec, Frewza could do with refining and evolving their lineup I think they have stagnated in the market - I'm happy to pay the small premium to go to the Osprey for the better design

I have a wee kiwi kraft 440 and it’s an awesome ride for a small boat, well though out and constructed, soft and dry for its size, the guy I bought it off now has a 5m frewza which he says is not as soft a ride as my kiwi kraft , that would be my pick, I also talked to a local boat shop owner here in Nelson who said osprey now seem to need a lot of grunt to get them moving, I guess because of the deep v. Maybe have a test ride down there on a kiwi kraft, even a 5m one before coming up here to try an osprey?

CJR09 wrote: I have decided on the Osprey 520c for all the reasons you outlined above - totally agree on the transom and dead rise design - add 5mm hull std I contemplated the 565 and the 545 KK but want to keep it on the smaller side for single handed launch/retreive

Fantastic choice, have you had that priced up?

Hit Fishwhisperer up and ask some questions, he owns I think the old 550c model. He seems to use the fantastic FC430 a lot more lately but that isnt because the 550c isnt good, just the smaller boat is filling his needs it seems at the moment.

I know seems a bit daunting, but dont discount any of the brands to be honest, I think you sound like you are getting what you had made up your own mind on anyway?

Without confusing things too much, maybe a sea trial in a number of boats. just to compare what you are getting money wise and just to be sure you get it right the first time. Just keep in mind what Reel Deal has said, Needs, Wants, fishing conditions. Ultimately that will drive your purchase. That is why testing riding a number will sort out the winner in your own mind (even if you have a fav already) and for your intended conditions and you will feel confident in what is, a huge amount of money in nearly anybodys language.

Pretty easy to add all the extras up and spend a large chunk on after market components. So can understand you wanting to put your base into the engine and hull at this point.

If you were in the North Island, I would recommend this Orca made APB. Flapping awesome craft, ex coast guard, but in mind condition. Has everything you need including a 9" Simrad with one of those football size airmar 275 1kw transducers. Epirb and all the gear.

Orca don't mess about, they like AMF imo, custom made boats for military and coasties etc.

https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/motors/boats-marine/motorboats/listing/2951984260?bof=8dGrxcVh