Each fall, the Pontoon & Deck Boat magazine staff hosts our annual Shootout, where we gather the top pontoon and deck boat manufacturers together to review their latest models. In a way, our test is like “the happiest place on earth.” Well, maybe not to a 5-year-old expecting to see Mickey Mouse, but for our staff, Shootout week always feels special.
For five straight days, our 11-person crew’s daily routine is to test, evaluate, capture, and review each boat so it can be included in our special boat test issue. The reason we all look forward to the test (other than the obvious of getting out on the water and being one of the first to run the new models) is that you never know what you’ll see from year to year.
Our Shootout test this year offered a diverse selection of boats, including three brand-new manufacturers participating for the first time, entry-level price-point offerings, a surf performance boat, a pontoon in the $350,000 price range, and even a couple of twin-engine beauties. That doesn’t even include all the innovative new features. Again, we just never know what the manufacturers will bring to our test, and that’s what makes it so much fun.
If you’re viewing this issue digitally through our VERTIQUL platform, you’ll notice all of our test videos are linked to the in-depth write-ups. Think of these videos as appetizers and a great way to lead into the main course. These same videos (along with all of our past Shootout boat test videos) can be found on the PDB website at www.pdbmagazine.com as well as on our YouTube channel, so be sure to check those out. These videos are a great way to help you narrow down which models you’re most interested in, but feel free to dive deeper and view and read all the boat reviews.
Note that in the detailed write-ups, we’ve yet to find the perfect pontoon or deck boat. Yes, we highlight what our staff loved about every model, and there is usually quite a bit to go over. But we also report what we’d like to see changed, added, tweaked, or improved on each boat. Some critiques are pickier than others, but we do like to provide some feedback for you to consider.
We also include the price of each boat as tested, which is important when doing your homework prior to attending the early boat shows. When you’re comparing different models, it is crucial to factor in the prices to determine what’s best for you and your budget.
Also, pay attention to the options that are listed with each review. Sometimes, by taking fewer “bells and whistles,” you can stay within the amount you’re looking to spend on your next boat. Of course, typically, the boats as tested include both standard and optional features and have been packaged well by the manufacturer. Simply put, sometimes what makes the boat so amazing and why we loved it so much is how the blend of both options and key standard features comes together.
A big shout-out to my hard-working crew for another successful year of testing. We’ve been doing this for over 30 years in several different states, but coming to northern Indiana feels like being home. The return to Lake Wawassee and the Oakwood Inn for our test was a complete success this year. The staff at this resort couldn’t have treated us any better; they were amazing hosts. Additionally, with the Pier and Back Porch restaurant just steps away from the docks, our staff was well-fed all week.
Together, my staff and I have done all of the heavy lifting so you can sit back, read, view, and enjoy our efforts to help you make the best boat-buying decision possible this year.
Pontoon & Deck Boat Editor
