First bassboat, considering a Caracal, but have questions

Welcome to the board and to a great boat choice. All 4 of the boats mentioned are big boats and will handle big water very well. Plus they all will go very fast…low 70s in the Caracal to upper 70s in the Eyra, Puma, and Cougar. I am on my second Cougar and love it. Choose the boat based on your needs plus what deck layout that appeals the most to you. The one thing I will caution you about any of these boats (or any brand of boat for that matter) that will go these speeds is to take it slowly and learn to drive whichever one you choose. Most people want to get out and drive it as fast as possible but if you have never driven a high performance boat it can get away from you in a hurry, doesnt matter the model or brand of boat. Take your time and enjoy the ride, before long you will be able to stretch it out further and further. Use this board as your go to for information on anything and of course post pictures once you get your boat. Good luck and be safe. Tony D2017 Eyra / 250 Merc Pro XS

They have informed you well. The choice is more in the floor plan that suits the fishing you do. Since you mention K Lake and Erie, we assume most will be on K Lake. They are both going to present big water, though K Lake can offer shallow water fishing also. The Cougar FTD or Caracal with rear tanks would be our choice for your suggested fishing locations. The Eyra is a great boat and most of the shop enjoys it, though it also is a smaller storage and fishing from K Lake to Great Lakes requires more tackle diversity. It is more of a shallow water boat when fishing. The 6″ setback of the Caracal bow trolling motor foot pedal might play in well with the deck transition and higher degree of Vee, for big water open fishing. The shorter hull will allow you to zig and zag in really big rollers also while keeping the engine from hydraulicing underwater in large falling waves. We like the Eyra also in large water as its nimble as mentioned. Theres a lot more to consider though we think those perspectives give you some input. BCB

Thanks all for the input, I do like the Caracal layout the best, but still concerned on how deep the “deep v” is for shallow water. I know Basscat doesnt like to list the draft because of all the variables, but Id be interested to know how the Caracal compares to the Eyra and Cougar/Puma? Eyra just looks like it has a more shallow draft… And fast2015 BassCat Caracal225 Yamaha SHORaymarine Axiom 12sTwin 8 Red PowerPole Blades

I have owned a Jaguar and Puma and spent considerable time in the Cougar and Eyra. I am currently ANXIOUSLY awaiting a new Caracal. I based my decision primarily on layout. My second choice would be a Puma FTD, again primarily based on layout. The rear tanks in my opinion are the way to go. As for draft, like BCB stated you are dealing with inches not feet. If possible, I would recommend seeing a Caracal in person. I will be happy to send you any info once I get mine on the water. As for the concern of it grabbing at high speeds, I will tell you there is a noticeable difference to how a Bass Cat drives and performs. I have owned Ranger, Stratos and Nitro previously and I immediately noticed the Bass Cat to be more responsive. One thing you will have going for you, is it will be a new experience for you and wont have old habits/anticipations to overcome. Bass Cats are responsive and built to perform, but that doesnt mean you have to push them. Take it easy and slow and push based on your confidence and capabilities. Only you know your capabilities/limitations. I am more of a fisherman than a boat driver. I love knowing what my Cat is capable of, but I dont push the limits too often. Feel free to contact me with any questions. Good luck!!