Top 10 Bass Boats 2024

1. 2024 Ranger Z521R

The Ranger Z521R ranks first because it combines a bulletproof foam-filled fiberglass hull with the strongest resale value in the bass boat segment. At 20 feet 11 inches with a 96-inch beam, it is rated for up to 250 horsepower and pushes past 70 mph at wide-open throttle with a Mercury 250 ProXS. The Pro-Touch wood-free transom and lifetime structural hull warranty underpin its durability.

This boat is for tournament anglers who fish rough water and need a rig that holds value over a decade of hard use. It trades away affordability and light towing; you will need a capable truck to haul its weight. Compared to the Tracker Pro Team 195 TXW below, the Ranger costs roughly three times as much but delivers a far smoother ride, larger livewells, and a dealer network that supports serious competition fishing.

2. 2024 Tracker Pro Team 195 TXW

The Tracker Pro Team 195 TXW ranks second because it delivers the most complete bass boat package for the money, with a factory-rigged Mercury 115 four-stroke, trailer, and trolling motor all included for about $32,000. This 18-foot 11-inch all-welded aluminum boat has a 96-inch beam and a mod-V hull that fishes well on lakes and rivers.

This boat is for first-time buyers and budget-focused anglers who want to get on the water immediately without hidden costs. It trades away the rough-water ride and resale upside of fiberglass, and it will not keep pace with a glass hull in three-foot chop. Compared to the Ranger Z521R above, the Tracker is far lighter to tow and easier to launch, but it lacks the tournament-grade livewell capacity and long-term value retention.

3. 2024 Nitro Z21 XL

The Nitro Z21 XL ranks third because it offers the best value in a fiberglass tournament boat, pairing a fast Rapid Planing System pad hull with a 250-horsepower rating for high-60-mph performance. At 21 feet 2 inches with a 96-inch beam, it provides a roomy deck and a 40-gallon livewell system that suits serious fishing. Build quality has improved steadily, and rigged pricing typically lands between $60,000 and $68,000.

This boat is for tournament-minded anglers who want glass performance without paying Ranger or Skeeter prices. It trades away the gelcoat finish and resale strength of the top-tier brands, and its pad hull can exhibit chine walk for less experienced drivers. Compared to the Tracker Pro Team 195 TXW below, the Nitro is faster and rides better in chop, but it costs roughly twice as much and requires a more powerful tow vehicle.

4. 2024 Skeeter ZX200

The Skeeter ZX200 ranks fourth because it delivers a refined, dry ride in rough water that is second only to Ranger in this field, backed by Yamaha's reliable four-stroke power. This 20-foot hull with a 95-inch beam is rated to 225 horsepower and runs efficiently in the high 60s with a Yamaha SHO. The 35-gallon recirculating livewell and clean wiring for electronics make it a comfortable fishing platform. Rigged pricing generally falls between $78,000 and $85,000.

This boat is for anglers who frequently fish windy, open reservoirs and prioritize ride comfort over top speed. It trades away a larger livewell capacity and a slightly lower price point compared to the Nitro Z21 XL above. The Skeeter holds resale value nearly as well as a Ranger, but its dealer network is more limited in some regions, which can affect service convenience.

5. 2024 Phoenix 921 ProXP

The Phoenix 921 ProXP ranks fifth because it offers an outstanding planted ride with minimal chine walk, a result of hull design by industry veterans who left larger brands. At 20 feet 8 inches with a 96-inch beam, it is rated to 250 horsepower and delivers a confidence-inspiring feel at speed. The 39-gallon livewell setup and deep rod boxes rival boats costing more, and owners consistently praise the rigging quality.

This boat is for discerning anglers who value ride and build quality over brand badge and dealer convenience. It trades away a broad dealer network and shorter order lead times, as Phoenix builds in lower volume. Compared to the Skeeter ZX200 above, the Phoenix offers a slightly larger livewell and a more planted feel, but it lacks Yamaha's integrated powertrain reliability and has a thinner service footprint.

6. 2024 Bass Cat Eyra

The Bass Cat Eyra ranks sixth because it combines hand-laid hull construction with semi-custom rigging, offering a level of detail that earns a cult following among serious anglers. This 20-foot 4-inch hull has a 96-inch beam, is rated to 250 horsepower, and is famous for a smooth ride and tight build tolerances. Each boat is essentially built to the buyer's specification, with premium hardware and award-winning finish quality.

This boat is for detail-obsessed anglers who want a bespoke tournament rig and are willing to wait for it. It trades away production volume and dealer presence, which means longer build times and fewer service locations. Compared to the Phoenix 921 ProXP above, the Eyra offers a more personalized build and potentially firmer resale, but it costs more and requires more patience from order to delivery.

7. 2024 Triton 20 TRX Patriot

The Triton 20 TRX Patriot ranks seventh because it delivers a stable, predictable hull that newer tournament drivers appreciate, with a 250-horsepower rating for high-60-mph performance. At 20 feet 4 inches with a 94-inch beam, it offers a 37-gallon livewell and oversized rod storage for serious fishing. Triton's parent company, Bass Pro Shops, ensures a broad dealer network and solid resale support. Rigged pricing typically falls between $68,000 and $75,000.

This boat is for tournament anglers who want a dependable, widely supported rig without the premium price of the top brands. It trades away the ride refinement and resale strength of Ranger, Skeeter, or Phoenix, and its styling polarizes some buyers. Compared to the Bass Cat Eyra above, the Triton is more affordable and easier to service, but it lacks the hand-built quality and semi-custom options that define the Eyra.

8. 2024 Lund 1875 Pro-V Bass

The Lund 1875 Pro-V Bass ranks eighth because it offers the best aluminum ride in chop, thanks to its IPS2 strakes and heavy-gauge welded construction that handle two-foot rollers better than most aluminum rivals. This 18-foot 5-inch hull has a 96-inch beam, is rated to 150 horsepower, and provides a dry, stable ride on big northern lakes. The 30-gallon livewell and ample storage suit a full day of fishing.

This boat is for anglers who fish large, windy northern waters and want aluminum toughness without sacrificing ride quality. It trades away top-end speed and the casting deck space of a dedicated glass bass boat. Compared to the Triton 20 TRX Patriot above, the Lund is slower and smaller, but it is far more affordable and holds resale value exceptionally well in northern markets.

9. 2024 Crestliner VT 19

The Crestliner VT 19 ranks ninth because it brings a glass-boat layout to an aluminum hull, offering a tournament-style casting deck at a budget-friendly price. This 19-foot 1-inch welded mod-V hull has a 96-inch beam, is rated to 150 horsepower, and provides a flat, open platform that fishes like a much pricier rig. Features include a 33-gallon livewell, dual rod lockers, and a lifetime hull warranty.

This boat is for budget-conscious anglers who want a tournament-style deck without paying fiberglass prices. It trades away a smooth ride in rough water and a dealer network as wide as Tracker's. Compared to the Lund 1875 Pro-V Bass above, the Crestliner offers a more open deck and lower price, but the Lund rides better in heavy chop and holds value more strongly in northern regions.

10. 2024 Xpress X19 Pro

The Xpress X19 Pro ranks tenth because it delivers a fast, dry ride for an aluminum boat, using a Hyper-Lift running surface that reaches the low 50-mph range with a Yamaha outboard. This 19-foot 6-inch all-welded hull has a 96-inch beam, is rated to 150 horsepower, and shrugs off stumps and trailer dings thanks to heavy-gauge aluminum. The 31-gallon aerated livewell and generous rod storage support serious fishing.

This boat is for anglers who fish stump-filled southern reservoirs and want a rugged, fast aluminum rig that is easy to trailer and maintain. It trades away a broad dealer network and premium options, as Xpress has a regional concentration in the South. Compared to the Crestliner VT 19 above, the Xpress is faster and tougher, but the Crestliner offers a more open casting deck and a lifetime hull warranty that covers more territory.

How we ranked these

We measured fishability, hull and ride, build quality, value retention, and price-to-capability. Fishability weighed deck space, rod storage, livewell volume, and aeration. Hull and ride assessed chop handling, deadrise, and stability at speed. Build quality covered gelcoat, wiring, and hardware. Value retention used brand resale strength and dealer coverage. Price-to-capability compared rigged out-the-door costs against features delivered.

We deliberately ignored marketing horsepower claims, top-speed bragging rights, and brand loyalty. We did not penalize boats for lacking luxury amenities like premium stereo systems or custom upholstery. We excluded subjective styling preferences and regional brand popularity. We focused on measurable, practical attributes that affect a buyer's daily fishing experience and long-term ownership costs, rather than hype or anecdotal reputation.

Related questions

What is the best overall bass boat for 2024?

The 2024 Ranger Z521R is the best overall bass boat. It combines a bulletproof fiberglass hull, 38-gallon livewell system, and the strongest resale value in the segment. Rigged with a 250-horsepower outboard, it exceeds 70 mph. At roughly $95,000, it is expensive but trusted by pros when a check is on the line.

What is the best value bass boat for 2024?

The 2024 Tracker Pro Team 195 TXW is the best value pick. This all-welded aluminum boat comes factory-rigged with a Mercury 115 four-stroke, trailer, and trolling motor for about $32,000. It offers a wide deck, twin rod lockers, and an aerated livewell, making it the smartest first bass boat for budget-conscious anglers.

How fast do modern bass boats go?

Top-end fiberglass bass boats with 250-300 horsepower outboards can reach 70-75 mph. Aluminum models typically run 40-55 mph. Actual speed depends on weight, propeller choice, and water conditions. For example, the Ranger Z521R pushes past 70 mph, while the Xpress X19 Pro runs in the low 50s with a 150-horsepower Yamaha.

Is fiberglass or aluminum better for a bass boat?

Fiberglass offers a smoother ride in rough water and better resale value but costs more and is heavier. Aluminum is lighter, more affordable, and easier to trailer, but can be rougher in chop and may not hold value as well. Choose fiberglass for tournament performance and aluminum for budget and durability.

What size bass boat do I need?

For small lakes and rivers, 16-18 feet works fine. For big reservoirs or windy conditions, 19-21 feet provides a better ride and more storage. Tournament anglers often prefer 20-21 footers for stability and deck space. The Ranger Z521R at 20'11" and the Nitro Z21 XL at 21'2" are examples of tournament-sized rigs.

How long do bass boats typically last?

With proper care, a fiberglass hull can last 20-30 years or more, while aluminum hulls may last even longer if not corroded. Engines usually need major service or replacement after 10-15 years of heavy use. Regular maintenance and proper storage are key to maximizing lifespan.

What should I look for in a used bass boat?

Check engine hours and service records, asking for compression numbers and a Mercury or Yamaha service history. Inspect the trailer for rust, tire age, and weight rating. For glass boats, look for stress cracks at the transom and gelcoat blisters. For aluminum, check welds and rivets for cracks or leaks.

How many livewells should a good bass boat have?

Most tournament-ready boats have two livewells, each holding 20-40 gallons. Single-livewell setups are common on smaller or budget models, but two wells allow you to separate cull fish or keep different species. The Ranger Z521R has a 38-gallon system, while the Nitro Z21 XL offers 40 gallons.

FAQ

What is the price range for a new bass boat in 2024?

You can expect to pay anywhere from roughly $25,000 for a basic aluminum rig to over $100,000 for a fully loaded fiberglass tournament boat. Most mid-range fiberglass models fall between $50,000 and $80,000. The Tracker Pro Team 195 TXW is about $32,000, while the Ranger Z521R is around $95,000.

How fast do modern bass boats go?

Top-end fiberglass boats with 250-300 hp outboards can reach 70-75 mph, while aluminum models typically run 40-55 mph. Actual speed depends on weight, prop, and water conditions. The Ranger Z521R exceeds 70 mph, the Nitro Z21 XL hits high 60s, and the Xpress X19 Pro runs low 50s.

Is fiberglass or aluminum better for a bass boat?

Fiberglass offers a smoother ride in rough water and better resale value, but costs more and is heavier. Aluminum is lighter, more affordable, and easier to trailer, but can be rougher in chop and may not hold value as well. Choose based on your budget and typical water conditions.

How many livewells should a good bass boat have?

Most tournament-ready boats have two livewells, each holding 20-40 gallons. Single-livewell setups are common on smaller or budget models, but two wells allow you to separate cull fish or keep different species. The Ranger Z521R has a 38-gallon system, while the Nitro Z21 XL offers 40 gallons.

What size bass boat do I need?

For small lakes and rivers, 16-18 feet works fine. For big reservoirs or windy conditions, 19-21 feet provides a better ride and more storage. Tournament anglers often prefer 20-21 footers for stability and deck space. The Ranger Z521R at 20'11" and the Nitro Z21 XL at 21'2" are examples.

How long do bass boats typically last?

With proper care, a fiberglass hull can last 20-30 years or more, while aluminum hulls may last even longer if not corroded. Engines usually need major service or replacement after 10-15 years of heavy use. Regular maintenance and proper storage are key to maximizing lifespan.

What should I look for in a used bass boat?

Check engine hours and service records, asking for compression numbers and a Mercury or Yamaha service history. Inspect the trailer for rust, tire age, and weight rating. For glass boats, look for stress cracks at the transom and gelcoat blisters. For aluminum, check welds and rivets for cracks or leaks.

Which bass boat has the best resale value?

Ranger has the strongest resale value in the bass boat segment, followed closely by Skeeter. The Ranger Z521R is known for holding its price well at trade-in. Bass Cat also maintains firm resale due to low production volume. Aluminum boats like Tracker generally have lower resale upside than fiberglass.

What is the best aluminum bass boat for rough water?

The Lund 1875 Pro-V Bass is the best aluminum choice for rough, open northern lakes. Its IPS2 strakes provide a dry ride, and it handles two-foot rollers far better than most aluminum bass boats. It is rated to 150 horsepower and priced around $51,000 rigged.

What is the fastest aluminum bass boat?

The Xpress X19 Pro is among the fastest aluminum bass boats, running in the low 50-mph range with a 150-horsepower Yamaha. Its Hyper-Lift running surface provides a surprisingly fast, dry ride. It is priced around $45,000 and offers rugged welded construction.

Sources

• https://www.boattrader.com/boat/2024-ranger-z521r-8992805/
• https://www.boattrader.com/boat/2024-tracker-pro-team-195-txw-tournament-edition-9202532/
• https://www.boattrader.com/boat/2024-nitro-z21-xl-pro-9108229/
• https://www.annasmarinecenter.com/new-boat-showrooms/skeeter/2024-skeeter-zx-200-9123344/
• https://www.boattrader.com/boat/2024-phoenix-921-elite-8913327/
• https://basscat.com/bass-cat-models/eyra/
• https://www.boattrader.com/boat/2024-triton-20xp-patriot-9168573/
• https://www.boattrader.com/boat/2024-lund-1875-pro-v-bass-xs-9137777/
• https://www.boats.com/power-boats/2023-crestliner-xf-189-w-115hp-mercury-8997886/
• https://www.boattrader.com/boat/2024-xpress-x19-pro-9375326/

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