STACER 420 PROLINE ANGLER REVIEW
Well, some lucky subscriber to TrailerBoat
We decided to take a run to the Telwater Factory where all Quintrex and Stacer boats are born, and to have a look at the actual rig. With a boat ramp just across the road at the Gold Coast City Marina, we thought it may as well get damp on the bottom in the process, having just come off the production line the night before this test.
This model has been around for some time and is popular around the sheltered estuaries and on the lakes for freshwater anglers. There hasn't been a need to do a major revamp since its debut but rather, a cosmetic makeover to keep it looking smart; that is, with the exception of the inclusion of the Stacer Proline Sports Hull. This new-shaped bottom side has the bow more forward of the keel forefoot and features a flaring out from the keel line to push water and spray away.
The carpets in this and all Stacer models will be grey in colour with seating cream and grey coloured to suit.
NEW FEATURES
On the prize boat and as an option on purchased vessels, is featured an electric-motor mounting-plate base on the port forequarter.
The port forequarter grabrail has been shortened to accommodate this feature while the starboard remains standard length. These rails are now highly polished rather than the standard matt finish as on the older models.
This boat has an ample forward casting deck with three hatches. The hatch situated forward centre is large and opens away from the inside of the boat to reveal a very large rota-form insert that is bunged at the bottom. It is large enough to fit a pair of batteries for the electric motor or be used as a fish live or killtank.
Aft of that compartment, another two hatches opening toward the centre revealing a full-width stowage area large enough to house paddles and other safety gear. A centrally located seat-post base is available for those resting their legs while fishing.
Down in the cockpit are four more seat-post bases and another fixed to the forward part of the bulkhead of the short, rear casting platform.
While the prize boat is fitted with a short tiller arm on the 30hp two-stroke Mariner, the seat base is ideal should you opt for a long tiller arm. This can be accommodated with the seat moved slightly forward into the base.
In the aft casting platform base, a hatch opens to the tote tank which may be installed on either side to keep the trim of the boat correct. The other side of this compartment is vacant but will hold another tote tank if need be.
CARPETED DECK
The hatches are carpet-covered Allycore and the deck in the cockpit is marine ply - also covered with carpet.
On a run down the Coomera River with two people aboard the 420 wound out to about 50kmh on estimate. Considering its V-nosed punt-style hull and bow entry, it rode very softly over passing boat wake.
Hard cornering created aeration at the propeller but this was remedied soon after (the boat only had the finishing touches put to it the night before) and the usual torque felt at the tiller will be alleviated with the adjustment of the fin under the anti-cavitation plate.
With the 30hp fitted, the boat has plenty of holeshot and acceleration. With the maximum of 40 horses fitted, it would fly!
All-in-all a basic boat but a freebie to one of you lucky subscribers. Good luck in the draw.
WHAT WE LIKED
Plenty of space
Stable and comfortable ride
NOT SO MUCH
The editor won't let me go in the draw!
Specifications: Stacer 420 Proline Angler
Price as tested: $10,945
Options fitted: Two-colour paint and electric motor base
Priced from: $10,840 plus dealer delivery charges
GENERAL
Material: Aluminium 2mm bottom, 1.6mm sides
Length overall: 4.25m
Length on trailer: 5.40m
Beam: 1.83m
Depth: 0.80m
Weight: 225kg (hull only)
CAPACITIES
Recommended HP: 30
Rec. max. HP: 40
Max. transom engine weight: 110kg
People: 4
ENGINE
Make: Mariner
Type: Carburetted two-stroke outboard
VELS rating: 0 stars
Rated HP: 30
Displacement: 430cc
Weight: 48kg
Gearbox ratio: 1.92:1
Propeller: 9.9 x 11in painted alloy
SUPPLIED BY
Stacer (a division of Telwater Pty Ltd),
53 Waterway Drive,
Coomera, Qld, 4209
Phone: (07) 5585 9805
Fax: (07) 5585 9811
Website: www.stacer.com.au
Originally published in TrailerBoat #227