Hey fishing enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170, a personal watercraft (PWC) designed specifically for anglers. If you're considering upgrading your fishing game or just curious about what this machine has to offer, you're in the right place. We’ll explore its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs. So, let’s get started!

Overview of the Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170

The Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170 is a purpose-built fishing PWC that combines the thrill of riding a personal watercraft with the practicality of a fishing boat. It’s designed to offer a unique and exciting way to fish, allowing you to reach spots that traditional boats can't access. Let's delve into what makes this PWC stand out.

Key Features

When it comes to features, the Fish Pro 170 is loaded with angler-friendly goodies:

• Rotax 1630 ACE Engine: Provides reliable power and fuel efficiency.
• Fishing Bench Seat: Designed for comfort and support during long fishing sessions.
• Garmin Navigation and Fish Finder: Helps you locate the best fishing spots.
• LinQ Fishing Cooler: Keeps your catch fresh and your drinks cold.
• Rod Holders: Provides convenient storage for your fishing rods.
• Trolling Mode: Allows you to maintain a constant low speed for trolling.
• Large Rear Platform: Offers ample space for fishing and moving around.

Design and Build

The design of the Fish Pro 170 is centered around stability and functionality. The extended rear platform gives you plenty of room to cast and reel in your catch. The fishing bench seat is ergonomically designed to keep you comfortable even after hours on the water. The PWC feels robust and well-built, ready to handle various water conditions.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk about how this PWC performs on the water. The Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170 isn't just about fishing; it’s also about enjoying the ride. The Rotax engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency, making it fun to cruise around while still being economical on fuel.

Engine and Power

Under the hood, you'll find the Rotax 1630 ACE (Advanced Combustion Efficiency) engine. This 170-horsepower engine delivers strong acceleration and a top speed that’s more than adequate for fishing and recreational riding. It’s not the most powerful engine in the Sea-Doo lineup, but it offers a great blend of performance and fuel economy, which is crucial for those long days on the water.

Handling and Stability

One of the standout features of the Fish Pro 170 is its stability. Sea-Doo has designed this PWC with a wide and stable hull, which is essential when you’re trying to reel in a fish or navigate choppy waters. The handling is responsive and predictable, making it easy to maneuver around obstacles and stay in control. Whether you're a seasoned PWC rider or a beginner, you'll appreciate the ease of handling this machine offers.

Ride Experience

The ride experience on the Fish Pro 170 is generally comfortable and enjoyable. The fishing bench seat provides good support, and the PWC handles waves and chop with ease. The intelligent throttle control (iTC) system allows you to fine-tune the throttle response to your liking, whether you prefer a more aggressive feel or a smoother, more relaxed ride. The trolling mode is a fantastic feature for anglers, allowing you to maintain a consistent low speed without constantly adjusting the throttle.

Fishing Features in Detail

The Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170 truly shines when you start looking at its fishing-specific features. These additions make it a serious contender for anglers looking to combine the convenience of a PWC with the functionality of a fishing boat. Let’s break down some of the key fishing features.

Garmin Navigation and Fish Finder

A standout feature is the integrated Garmin GPS and fish finder. This system provides you with detailed maps, GPS navigation, and advanced sonar capabilities to help you locate fish. The display is clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight, and the interface is intuitive, making it simple to mark waypoints, track your route, and identify promising fishing spots. Having this technology at your fingertips can significantly improve your chances of landing a great catch.

LinQ Fishing Cooler

The LinQ fishing cooler is another essential feature for any angler. This cooler is specifically designed to attach securely to the rear platform of the Fish Pro 170, providing a convenient place to store your catch and keep it fresh. The cooler is insulated to maintain a consistent temperature, and it includes a cutting board and storage compartments for tackle and other essentials. It’s a well-thought-out addition that enhances the overall fishing experience.

Rod Holders and Storage

The Fish Pro 170 comes equipped with multiple rod holders, allowing you to carry several rods with you on the water. These rod holders are strategically placed for easy access and secure storage, keeping your rods out of the way while you’re riding but readily available when you need them. Additionally, there are several storage compartments throughout the PWC, providing ample space for tackle, gear, and personal items.

Trolling Mode

Trolling mode is a game-changer for anglers who enjoy trolling for fish. This feature allows you to set and maintain a consistent low speed, freeing up your hands and allowing you to focus on your fishing line. Trolling mode can be easily adjusted to fine-tune your speed, ensuring you’re presenting your bait or lure in the most effective way possible. It’s a feature that truly sets the Fish Pro 170 apart from other PWCs.

Comfort and Convenience

Beyond its fishing-specific features, the Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170 also offers several comfort and convenience features that enhance the overall experience. These additions make long days on the water more enjoyable and less fatiguing.

Fishing Bench Seat

The fishing bench seat is designed for comfort and support, providing a stable and ergonomic platform for long fishing sessions. The seat is wider and more supportive than a standard PWC seat, reducing fatigue and allowing you to stay comfortable even after hours on the water. The seat also provides good back support, which is essential for maintaining good posture and avoiding back pain.

Large Rear Platform

The large rear platform is a standout feature that provides ample space for fishing and moving around. This platform makes it easy to cast, reel in fish, and access your gear. The added space also makes it easier to board the PWC from the water, which can be particularly useful when fishing in remote areas. The rear platform is designed with non-slip material, providing secure footing even when wet.

Storage and Accessories

The Fish Pro 170 offers plenty of storage space for all your gear and personal items. In addition to the LinQ fishing cooler, there are several storage compartments located throughout the PWC, providing ample space for tackle, extra clothing, and other essentials. Sea-Doo also offers a range of accessories that can further enhance the comfort and convenience of the Fish Pro 170, such as a Bimini top for sun protection and a boarding ladder for easier access from the water.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let’s weigh the pros and cons of the Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages will help you make an informed decision about whether this PWC is the right fit for your needs.

Pros

• Purpose-Built Fishing Features: The Fish Pro 170 is packed with features specifically designed for anglers, including a Garmin fish finder, LinQ fishing cooler, rod holders, and trolling mode.
• Stable and Comfortable Ride: The wide hull and fishing bench seat provide a stable and comfortable ride, even in choppy conditions.
• Fuel Efficient: The Rotax 1630 ACE engine offers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it economical to operate.
• Easy to Handle: The Fish Pro 170 is easy to handle and maneuver, making it suitable for both experienced and novice riders.
• Versatile: In addition to fishing, the Fish Pro 170 can also be used for recreational riding and exploring.

Cons

• Price: The Fish Pro 170 is more expensive than a standard PWC, which may be a barrier for some buyers.
• Limited Storage: While there is ample storage space, it may not be sufficient for extended trips or multiple anglers.
• Specialized Use: The Fish Pro 170 is primarily designed for fishing, so it may not be the best choice for those who prioritize high-speed performance or freestyle riding.

Alternatives to the Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170

If the Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170 doesn’t quite meet your needs, there are several other options to consider. These alternatives offer different features and capabilities, so you can find the perfect PWC for your fishing adventures.

Yamaha FX Series

The Yamaha FX series is a popular choice for anglers who want a versatile PWC that can be used for both fishing and recreational riding. The FX series offers a range of models with different engine options and features, allowing you to customize your PWC to your specific needs. Many anglers add aftermarket fishing accessories, such as rod holders and fish finders, to the FX series to create a capable fishing platform.

Sea-Doo GTI Series

The Sea-Doo GTI series is another good option for anglers who want a more affordable and versatile PWC. The GTI series offers a comfortable ride and plenty of storage space, making it suitable for long days on the water. While the GTI series doesn’t come with fishing-specific features like the Fish Pro 170, it can be easily customized with aftermarket accessories to create a capable fishing PWC.

Modified PWCs

Another option is to modify a standard PWC with aftermarket fishing accessories. This can be a cost-effective way to create a fishing PWC that meets your specific needs. There are many aftermarket accessories available, such as rod holders, fish finders, and coolers, that can be added to a standard PWC to make it more suitable for fishing. However, modifying a PWC can be time-consuming and may require some technical expertise.

Final Verdict: Is the Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170 Worth It?

So, is the Sea-Doo Fish Pro 170 worth the investment? The answer depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re a serious angler who wants a purpose-built fishing PWC with all the bells and whistles, the Fish Pro 170 is definitely worth considering. Its fishing-specific features, stable ride, and comfortable design make it a top choice for anglers who want to take their fishing game to the next level.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or primarily interested in recreational riding, there may be better options available. The Fish Pro 170 is more expensive than a standard PWC, and its specialized features may not be necessary for those who only fish occasionally. In that case, a more versatile PWC with aftermarket fishing accessories may be a better choice.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Fish Pro 170 is right for you is to take it for a test ride and see how it performs on the water. Talk to other anglers who own the Fish Pro 170 and get their feedback. With a little research and careful consideration, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect PWC for your fishing adventures. Happy fishing, guys!