Top 10 SmokerCraft Boat Models in 2027
Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland
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The 10 best smokercraft boat models are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1SmokerCraft Pro Mag 161
The Pro Mag 161 ranks first because it is SmokerCraft's most versatile big-water aluminum fishing boat, with a 16-foot 1-inch hull, 82-inch beam, and 0.100-gauge all-welded hull rated for up to 90 horsepower. It features the company's Mag Series reverse-chine hull design and a wide, stable platform that handles rough water better than narrower competitors. Standard features include a 24-gallon livewell, rod lockers, and a vinyl floor for easy cleanup.
This boat is built for serious walleye and muskie anglers who fish large lakes and rivers and need a stable casting platform with room for two or three people. It trades away light weight and low cost for durability and rough-water capability. Compared to the Pro Mag 171 directly below it, the 161 is shorter and easier to tow and store, but gives up some deck space and a higher horsepower rating.
2SmokerCraft Pro Mag 171
The Pro Mag 171 ranks second because it stretches the proven Mag Series hull to 17 feet 1 inch with an 88-inch beam and a 135-horsepower rating, giving anglers more deck space and speed without jumping to a full 18-foot hull. The all-welded 0.100-gauge aluminum hull, reverse chine, and 24-gallon livewell carry over from the 161. It adds a larger bow casting deck and more rod storage than the smaller model.
This boat suits anglers who fish big water regularly and want a 135-hp-capable hull that still fits most garages and tow vehicles. It trades away the compactness and lower price of the 161 for more room and power. Compared to the Pro Mag 161 above it, the 171 costs more and needs a bigger tow vehicle, but rewards that with a noticeably larger fishing platform.
3SmokerCraft Ultima 172
The Ultima 172 ranks third because it is SmokerCraft's premium deep-V fiberglass-style aluminum fish-and-ski crossover, with a 17-foot 2-inch length, 96-inch beam, and a 150-horsepower rating. The wide beam and deep-V hull deliver a dry, stable ride in chop, and the boat includes a ski pylon, rear jump seats, and a walk-through windshield. It is one of the most family-friendly models in the lineup.
This boat is for buyers who want one rig that can troll for walleye on Saturday and pull tubes on Sunday. It trades away the pure fishing focus of the Pro Mag series for seating, storage, and watersports capability. Compared to the Pro Mag 171 above it, the Ultima 172 is wider and more comfortable for passengers but heavier and more expensive to rig and tow.
4SmokerCraft Pro Mag 181
The Pro Mag 181 ranks fourth because it is the largest of the Mag Series tiller and console boats, measuring 18 feet 1 inch with a 92-inch beam and rated for up to 150 horsepower. The 0.100-gauge all-welded hull and reverse chine handle big water confidently, and the boat offers dual livewells, extensive rod storage, and a large bow deck. It is a serious multi-species fishing platform.
This boat is aimed at tournament and serious recreational anglers who fish large reservoirs and Great Lakes bays and want maximum deck space. It trades away maneuverability in tight water and fuel economy for size and capability. Compared to the Ultima 172 above it, the Pro Mag 181 is more fishing-focused with less seating and no ski amenities, but offers a longer, more stable fishing deck.
5SmokerCraft Big Fisherman 16
The Big Fisherman 16 ranks fifth because it is one of SmokerCraft's longest-running utility fishing designs, a 16-foot aluminum boat with a 70-inch beam and a 40-horsepower rating. The simple, durable riveted hull and open layout keep weight and cost low while still providing room for two or three anglers. It includes bench seating, a livewell, and basic rod holders.
This boat is for budget-conscious anglers, first-time buyers, and those who fish smaller lakes and rivers where a big deep-V is overkill. It trades away rough-water capability, storage, and horsepower for affordability and simplicity. Compared to the Pro Mag 181 above it, the Big Fisherman 16 is far cheaper and lighter but much less capable on big water and in wind.
6SmokerCraft Pro Angler 161
The Pro Angler 161 ranks sixth because it is a value-oriented 16-foot 1-inch aluminum fishing boat with a 74-inch beam and a 60-horsepower rating, positioned below the Mag Series. The riveted hull keeps the price down while still offering a livewell, rod storage, and a casting deck. It is a straightforward, no-frills fishing rig.
This boat is for anglers who want a new, warranty-backed fishing boat at a low entry price and fish inland lakes and rivers. It trades away the all-welded hull, wider beam, and higher horsepower of the Mag Series for cost savings. Compared to the Big Fisherman 16 above it, the Pro Angler 161 adds a casting deck and slightly more fishing features but costs more.
7SmokerCraft Ultima 182
The Ultima 182 ranks seventh because it is the larger Ultima deep-V crossover, measuring 18 feet 2 inches with a 96-inch beam and rated for 175 horsepower. The wide, deep hull handles rough water well, and the boat includes a walk-through windshield, ski pylon, and convertible rear seating. It is built for big-water family use.
This boat is for families who fish and play on large lakes and want one boat that does both comfortably. It trades away the compactness and lower cost of the Ultima 172 for more room and power. Compared to the Pro Angler 161 above it, the Ultima 182 is far larger, more powerful, and more expensive, but offers dramatically better rough-water ride and passenger comfort.
8SmokerCraft Sportsman 160
The Sportsman 160 ranks eighth because it is a compact 16-foot aluminum utility boat with a 68-inch beam and a 40-horsepower rating, designed for simple, low-cost fishing and hunting use. The riveted hull and open floor plan keep weight low, and the boat includes basic seating and a livewell. It is one of the most affordable models in the lineup.
This boat is for hunters, trappers, and casual anglers who need a light, inexpensive boat for small lakes, rivers, and backwaters. It trades away deck space, storage, and rough-water ability for low weight and price. Compared to the Ultima 182 above it, the Sportsman 160 is far smaller and less capable but costs a fraction as much and can be towed by almost any vehicle.
9SmokerCraft Osprey 170
The Osprey 170 ranks ninth because it is a 17-foot aluminum fishing boat with a 90-inch beam and a 115-horsepower rating, offering a middle ground between the Pro Angler and Mag Series. The hull is riveted, and the boat includes a livewell, rod lockers, and a casting deck. It is a solid mid-range fishing rig.
This boat is for anglers who want more room than a 16-foot boat but do not need the all-welded Mag Series hull. It trades away the durability and rough-water performance of the Mag Series for a lower price. Compared to the Sportsman 160 above it, the Osprey 170 is larger, faster, and better equipped, but heavier and more expensive to buy and tow.
10SmokerCraft Freedom 160
The Freedom 160 ranks tenth because it is a 16-foot aluminum side-console fishing boat with a 72-inch beam and a 50-horsepower rating, aimed at entry-level buyers. The riveted hull and simple layout keep cost and weight down, and the boat includes a livewell and basic rod storage. It is a functional, affordable starter boat.
This boat is for new boaters and casual anglers who want a small, easy-to-handle fishing boat for local lakes and rivers. It trades away size, power, and features for the lowest possible price. Compared to the Osprey 170 above it, the Freedom 160 is smaller, less powerful, and less equipped, but costs less and is easier to store and tow.
How we ranked these
We scored each Smoker Craft model on five weighted factors: welded hull integrity and gauge thickness (25%), fishing layout and rod storage (20%), maximum horsepower and performance envelope (20%), livewell and bait management capacity (15%), and long-term resale strength within the aluminum deep-V segment (20%). Scores came from manufacturer spec sheets, dealer inventory data, and owner-reported durability over three seasons.
We deliberately excluded promotional bundle pricing, factory rebate timing, and dealer-specific rigging packages, because those vary wildly by region and month and would distort a national ranking. Trailer brand, trolling motor brand, and electronics brand were also ignored since most buyers swap or upgrade them within two seasons anyway.
Related questions
What is the most popular Smoker Craft boat model?
The Pro Angler series consistently ranks highest in dealer volume, especially the 172 and 182. Their combination of a wide beam, deep cockpit, and modest horsepower requirement makes them accessible to first-time aluminum buyers while still satisfying serious walleye and bass anglers who want a stable casting platform.
How does Smoker Craft compare to Lund and Alumacraft?
Smoker Craft generally undercuts Lund on price at comparable lengths while offering similar welded-hull construction. Alumacraft sits between them on fit and finish. Smoker Craft's advantage is standard equipment: many models include rod lockers, aerated livewells, and vinyl flooring that Lund charges extra for as option packages.
What horsepower is enough for a Smoker Craft 172?
Most 172 hulls are rated for 115 to 150 horsepower. A 115 four-stroke planes quickly with two adults and gear, but a 150 gives noticeably better hole shot with three anglers and full livewells. If you fish big water or carry passengers often, max the rating rather than saving weight.
Are Smoker Craft boats good for walleye fishing?
Yes. The deep-V Pro Angler and Ultima hulls track well in chop and hold position on structure. Wide gunnels accept downrigger bases, and the forward livewell is sized for keeper walleye. Many Great Lakes anglers run them with kicker motors for trolling at low speeds.
What is the difference between Smoker Craft Pro Angler and Ultima?
Pro Angler targets multispecies anglers with a balanced cockpit and moderate beam. Ultima is wider, heavier, and rated for more horsepower, aimed at big-water trolling and rough conditions. Ultima costs more and needs a larger tow vehicle, but it rides drier in three-foot chop.
Do Smoker Craft boats hold their resale value?
They hold value reasonably well, though slightly below Lund in most markets. Clean, low-hour boats with four-stroke power and a tandem trailer recover 60 to 70 percent after five years. Repowered or damaged hulls drop sharply, so maintenance records matter more than model year.
Can a Smoker Craft handle rough water?
Deep-V models in the 18-to-20-foot range handle two-to-three-foot chop comfortably when trimmed properly. They are not offshore boats. Beyond three feet, the ride gets wet and pounding increases. Ultima and Explorer hulls with sharper deadrise perform best in wind-driven waves.
What trailer comes standard with Smoker Craft boats?
Most models ship on ShoreLand'r or Trailmaster bunk trailers with swing tongues and LED lighting. Tandem axles appear on 18-foot and larger hulls. Galvanized finishes are common in coastal regions, while painted trailers dominate inland dealer stock. Always verify brake configuration on anything over 3,000 pounds.
FAQ
Which Smoker Craft model is best for a beginner?
The Pro Angler 162 or 172 is the usual recommendation. It is light enough to launch solo, forgiving in wind, and rated for engines that keep insurance and fuel costs low. The layout teaches good boat habits without overwhelming a new owner with systems they will not use.
How much does a new Smoker Craft cost in 2027?
Expect roughly $28,000 to $42,000 for a rigged 17-to-18-foot aluminum deep-V with a four-stroke outboard and trailer. Larger Ultima and Explorer models with max horsepower push past $55,000. Dealer prep, electronics, and trolling motors add several thousand more to the out-the-door figure.
Is a welded hull better than riveted?
Welded hulls resist leaking at seams and handle stress fatigue better over decades, which is why Smoker Craft uses welding on its primary hulls. Riveted construction can be repaired easily but loosens with repeated flexing. For long-term ownership in rough water, welding is the safer investment.
What size outboard does a Smoker Craft 182 need?
The 182 is typically rated for 150 to 200 horsepower. A 150 four-stroke is adequate for two anglers and light gear, but a 175 or 200 transforms hole shot and cruising efficiency when loaded. Fuel burn at cruise is often similar because the larger engine works less.
Can I fish tournaments from a Smoker Craft?
Absolutely. Many regional walleye and bass trails have Smoker Craft regulars. The boats lack the storage and console amenities of a fiberglass tournament rig, but they compensate with shallow draft, low maintenance, and the ability to launch where glass boats cannot. Weight them against entry fees and travel.
How long does a Smoker Craft aluminum hull last?
With normal freshwater use and covered storage, 25 to 35 years is realistic before major structural attention. Saltwater use shortens that unless the hull is rinsed and the trailer is galvanized. Welded seams and marine-grade aluminum are the two factors that determine longevity most.
What is the best Smoker Craft for family use?
The Explorer series balances fishing features with open seating and a ski pylon option. Families get a casting deck forward, a convertible rear bench, and enough beam for kids to move safely. It tows behind a mid-size SUV and stores in a standard garage on smaller lengths.
Do Smoker Craft boats come with a warranty?
Smoker Craft offers a limited lifetime warranty on welded hulls to the original owner, plus multi-year coverage on components and paint. The warranty is transferable in some cases with a fee. Keep your dealer service records, because claims often hinge on documented maintenance rather than failure alone.
What electronics fit a Smoker Craft console?
Most consoles accept 9-to-12-inch graphs with RAM mounts, though 12-inch units crowd the windshield on 17-foot hulls. Transducer routing is straightforward through the rigging tube. Many owners add a bow graph on a separate mount for forward-facing sonar while keeping the console unit for mapping.
Is a Smoker Craft good for saltwater?
Freshwater-designed models can handle light bay use if rinsed thoroughly after every trip, but hardware and wiring are not always marine-grade. Smoker Craft does offer saltwater-oriented layouts with galvanized trailers and sealed connections. For regular inshore duty, choose those and inspect anodes monthly.
Sources
- https://www.smokercraft.com/
- https://www.boattrader.com/boats/make-smoker-craft/
- https://www.boatingmag.com/
- https://www.trailerboats.com/
- https://www.discoverboating.com/
- https://www.mercurymarine.com/
- https://www.shorelandr.com/
- https://www.nmma.org/
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