Stratos Unveils the Re-Designed 186 VLO Fishing Boat
OutdoorHub 08.16.13
Stratos Boats continues to give anglers and boat buyers a better and more accessible alternative to aluminum by expanding its acclaimed VLO line with the addition of the new 186 VLO. Packed with fishing features and delivering performance and fishability that aluminum boats can’t equal, the 186 VLO makes the dream of owning a new fiberglass fishing platform a reality with prices starting at $22,195.
Measuring 18 feet, 9 inches, the Stratos 186 VLO is rated for a maximum 115 horsepower and is available with a multitude of precision-matched, factory-rigged outboards. The new 186 VLO is built upon a proven hull design and features an expansive front casting deck, complete with a Minn Kota trolling motor and recessed foot pedal.
“The days of settling for a noisy, aluminum fishing boat have long passed,” said Stratos Brand Manager Jason Bragg. “The feature-rich 186 VLO offers a solid, stable fishing platform that’s foam-filled and ultra quiet. It gives a premium fiberglass alternative to those customers who previously thought they could only afford to run an aluminum product.”
The new 186 VLO features a raised rail to add more interior depth and enhanced fishability. The bow design offers space for flush mounting electronics with screens as large as five inches while the offset design of the flush mount reduces instances of trolling motor cables blocking the screen. The large front deck is highlighted by loads of lockable storage on the port and starboard sides, plus a center rod locker, which can store rods up to 7 feet, 6 inches.
At the helm, the console has space for flush mounting electronics with screens as large as 7 inches and is offset from the gunnels to allow space for longer rods resting on the front deck. The custom layout also includes an integrated center bench seat that folds forward to reveal extra storage and doubles as a secure foot step to aid in transitioning from the cockpit to the rear fishing platform. Further equipped with a 21-gallon fuel tank, the Stratos 186 VLO also comes standard with a Lowrance X4 at the console, on-board battery charger and an oversized, aerated livewell.
The Stratos 186 VLO also comes factory-rigged with its own custom-built, single-axle trailer. Designed to perfectly match the boat, Stratos trailers are equipped with a super-tough Road Armor protective finish; submersible lights and individually balanced wheels. The trailers also feature swing jacks that retract flush to the frame and locking, swing-away tongues.
2014 STRATOS 186 VLO
Overall Hull Length: 18 feet, 9 inches
Beam: 89 inches
Maximum HP: 115
Fuel Capacity: (1) 21-gallon tank
Total Persons/Motor/Gear: 1,320 lbs.
Approx. Boat Weight: 1,450 lbs.
