13 ft Whalers

[Navigator]

I've always considered the 13ft Whalers to be a great little toy to play with on the lakes etc. Now, more and more I keep seeing them for sale locally for about 2k. A wide assortment of years and conditions, but all very much affordable. <br /><br />My question, how does a 13'er perform on a bit of chop. Is it too small to be playing in the bay with? I'm used to the larger Whalers but have only limited experience with the "baby" whalers.<br /><br />Would this be a fun toy for the Bay or would it be too small and too rough (and wet) to enjoy. I'm soliciting input, as I'm considering getting one for my step son's Xmas present. It's about time he loses the baggy jeans and learns to fish. (he already has the sit around for hours part down pat )<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Nav

 

[JB]

Re: 13 ft Whalers

Ahoy, Nav! I've only had a couple of 13s and plan to get another when the Outrage project is done, But I think I can give you a hard-butt fisherman's point of view.<br /><br />Like any Whaler, the 13 is unsinkable and, operated conservatively, the safest 13 you can find.<br /><br />This boat is hard on your butt in a chop, and wet, too. I love 'em. They are fast (25 with a 25, frighteningly fast with more), very agile and stable. I have fished big water, 10 or 15 miles from camp from a 13 and seen them in the Gulf Stream off Ft. Lauderdale catching everything from dolphin to billfish.<br /><br />For a small boat for a teen and buddies to become seamen in it is without peer.<br /><br />Red sky at night. . .<br />JB

 

[mtp]

Re: 13 ft Whalers

Comparable and also unsinkable is the 14' McKee, heavier boat, good, heavy glass and woven roven on submerged areas and operates a bit better in chop. 13' whaler gives very shakey/rough ride in 'lite' chop, scary in more serious swells. With low gunnels, high bench seats it's mandatory you put in and make operator wear a kill switch and pfd. You can flip them (only feature I ever thought whaler should add is hand holds on the bottom). Check older used units to see if gell coat and glass is worn through. Some have wet foam.

 

[DP]

Re: 13 ft Whalers

I agree with J.B. on this one. My first experience in a Whaler was a 13, it's a great boat and lots of fun. Runs well with low power with speeds that seem far above what you are realy running. Great bot for the kids.<br />I now run a 17 Whaler but have a 13 that I am restoring.