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I posted this on BBC as well. I am looking at a few different Bass Cat boats that are for sale, and two of them are the Cougar AE model. The problem Im having is that I dont see a lot of them for sale, and in a few years when I want to get a new one, would this model be desirable? It seems like the FTD models and Panteras are the ones everyone buys and are then able to sell after a few years. Does anyone out there have the Cougar AE model, and how do you like it? Thanks!!
The CAE and models like it were usually kept for years in older markets. Though recently they have been turned more frequently, as has the Pantera Classic. Every now and then one will pop up from someone wanting to move to a larger newer rig, or moving back to an 18 model. They are the original Cougar FTD deck assembly and the consoles are different, as is some equipment. People do seem to really like the model and it has been well accepted in the market. You will not see many newer ones on the market, as with the Pantera Classic and Sabre models. Others can comment on their preferences.
The AE is a great ride. Much cheaper than the FTD, but very close. Just not all the bells and whistles.
I have an older plain cougar that is similar in layout. I love it and would look at a CAE if I were in the market for the similar layout and the speed. I dont have complex about the lack of bells and whistles. Buy it and love it bro.
I have a 2008 model… Its a great boat… Mine just happens to be for sale… As long as you can go without the rear storage it will do everything you need a boat to do. Plenty fast and a smooth ride. email me at derek4one@yahoo.com if you need more info id be happy to help or talk to you about the boat if you have any questions.
This is good to hear. The thing that I cant get past is the eventual sale of the boat. I live in Ranger and Nitro country and people I talk to about Bass Cat always say the words FTD and Pantera. Id hate to buy the Cougar AE and be stuck with it or not get the kind of money I would like for it someday. Its a total mind game with me right now, and Im sure I would be totally happy with the AE model. It might come down to what mama says since theres about a $9000 difference between the AE and the FTD Im looking at. Thanks for the replies!!
Never buy a boat for the next guy. Get what makes you happy. You will never have any trouble selling any model Cat. As long as it is well cared for you have a market. Bass Cat has one of the best resale values around. The ones I have sold in the past took less than 2 months.
Bama96 wrote:Never buy a boat for the next guy. Get what makes you happy. You will never have any trouble selling any model Cat. As long as it is well cared for you have a market. Bass Cat has one of the best resale values around. The ones I have sold in the past took less than 2 months. I couldnt agree more with Bama96. I have had no problem selling both my BassCat PIV and BassCat Sabre. Buy the boat right for yourself, enjoy, fill up those livewells and be sure to do it in a BassCat. Boat performance is incredible with even better follow up support from the company. Congrats and post pics when you decide to buy.
The Cougar AE is the same hull as the Puma and FTD now, and the smaller console allows me to get around in the boat a bit easier as well. I love my 08 , and would have another in a NY minute ! Great running also helps the equation !
I have an AE that should be rolling off of the assembly line in the next day or two. I cant wait. I thought about some of the things you mentioned, but I prefer the boat to the other 20 models so thats what I went with. I added the desired “bells” that I wanted, so it is the same as far as those go, and a better layout for me. Coming from an 03 FTD, I have all of my storage stuff down to an art with this model. Plus I really like the slightly narrower consels to get between as well as the small rod pocket it allows on each side. This is HUGE in my opinion, adding room to the front as I can slide my rods back and out from under the trolling motor when running. Yes, it is a dual console since I now have little people that will ride with me from time to time. Its a small price to pay. The posts on here and talk about the other models being “premium” about blew my mind, but I went with what works for me out on the water.
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