REVIEW: Stessco Bass Tracker 389 Fishing Boat
STESSCO BASS TRACKER 389 Priced from: $ 10,525
Starting with the ‘baby’ of the fleet, Stessco’s Bass Tracker 389 is most certainly a step-up from a standard simple tinny and takes it to the next level with the addition of spacious carpeted deck, front cast-deck with storage hatch, a touch of colour added with the wrap, Hummingbird Pirhanamax-4 sounder and the latest Yamaha F25 four-stroke outboard that provides above average performance for a boat of this size.
ON THE WATER
Launching and retrieving the 389 is quick and easy single handed. On the water, I must say that the stability at rest and underway is pretty impressive considering it’s just under four metres in length and with a beam of 1.71m – it’s not bad up on the cast-deck either when flicking a lure.
As for performance, budget tinny’s are generally fitted up with six-15hp two-stroke motors - in this case the horsepower was bumped up with the new Yamaha F25C four-stroke being fitted, and most certainly packs quite a punch with good low-down torque and a decent top end of 23.97 knots, or 44.4kmph. It’s easy to drive and a whack of fun!
Being a four-stroke, the noise factor is also significantly reduced in comparison to the two-stokes. With a displacement of 430cc along with the Yamaha F25C being a four-valve SOHC in-line two-cylinder, these motors literally run on the smell of a rag when it comes to fuel consumption – with an average of 4.2 l/hr being sipped at 4000RPM / 14.71 knots.
Lightened to as low as 57kg’s the F25 is lightweight in comparison to earlier versions of four-strokes and what I do like are the standard features and options available in the new F25’s including;
- Variable trolling switch
- Compatible with Yamahas Command Link gauges
- Can be connected to 3rd party multi-function displays / GPS / Fish-finders
- Manual or electric start option
- Tiller or mechanical steer option
- Manual or power trim and tilt option
VERDICT
A nicely finished tinny that’s sturdy in the build, is an easy tow, is simple and quick to handle alone, rides and performs exceptionally well for its size, looks the part, can comfortably be stored in a household garage - and is competitively priced.
Adding a simple bimini and cushions to the thwart seats would be ideal for the family days on the water and for the more serious fisherman, an upgraded sounder, electric motor and a few comfy seats fitted to the thwarts would be ideal.
STESSCO BASS TRACKER 389 SPECS
Priced from: $ 10,525 (BMT)
Options fitted: Yamaha F25LMHC four-stroke outboard, front casting platform, Stessco wrap, Hummingbird Pirhanamax-4.
Price as tested: $11,514
GENERAL
Type: Open boat
Material: Aluminium
Length: 3970mm
Beam: 1715mm
Weight: 255kg as tested
Deadrise: 8°
CAPACITIES
People: 4
Rec. HP: 20
Max. HP: 30
Fuel: Tote tank
ENGINE
Make/model: Yamaha F25LMHC
Type: SOHC, In-Line two-cylinder
Weight: 57kg
Displacement: 432cc
Gear ratio: 2.08:1
Propeller: G Series Alloy (69W-45952-00) 10? x 12
MANUFACTURED BY
Merlin Marine and Leisure
For all pricing, availability and information on the Stessco product range please contact your authorised Stessco Dealer as Stessco do not offer factory direct sales.