which Zodiac?

[JUC 169]

Hey everyone! I am brand new to this forum. I have been looking for a used Zodiac over the last year and found one - maybe. I am about 6 feet and 230 lbs, my wife is average size, and we have two young boys.

My question to you all is... What size Zodiac would you recommend? The one I found is a 1999, 9'2". The price is right, but I don't want to buy one too small. On the other hand, if it is too big - it may be a hassle loading, transporting, etc.

We would probably use it for light fishing, floating down the river, etc. I am by no means an expert watercrafter..... yet.

Any opinions or suggestions will be well appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: which Zodiac?

Too small for my taste.

 

[jspringator]

Re: which Zodiac?

I have a 12' Saturn, and it is good for 2 adults and a child. Of course, I'm not floating anywhere. I'm on plane with a 15 hp OB motor.

 

[Drowned Rat]

Re: which Zodiac?

Yeah, 9 footer is way too small. 12 footer would be the bare minimum, 14 would be better.

 

[TOHATSU GURU]

Re: which Zodiac?

Bigger is almost always better because it distributes your weight on a more buoyant platform. You will find that a larger boat can actually get away with a smaller engine because it will be easier to plane. A 9' is considered small for two adults & gear with a 10' being average for two people. Personally I think an 11' or 12' would be better for you if you can handle the bulk of it. I would steer clear of any used (older than 5 years) PVC fabric boat, like a Zodiac, as they have a very limited service life.