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Flats Boat Review

Scout Costa 170 Stu Apte Signature Series

Reviewer: Mark Boname

Date: March 2006
Stu Apte
Introduction:
World famous fly fisherman Stu Apte (forward) has joined forces with the Scout Boats design team to develop the ultimate, fully-dedicated, flats fishing machine. The 170 Costa. Designed to deliver astounding results at the highest level, the 170 Costa draws an ultra-skinny seven inches of draft and achieves high speeds with only a 90 hp factory-installed Yamaha outboard. The 170 Costa features a revolutionary integrated bow casting platform (optional) measuring 31" wide, 27" long and 11" high; rod storage for up to twelve rods and an exclusive "stepped" hull design that provides maximum speed, excellent fuel efficiency and ultra quiet capability.

Specifications:
Length 16'9"
Beam7" 4"
Dry weight, w/o engine780 lbs
Fuel Capacity 30 gal
Rec. HP (Yamaha 90HP)90 hp
Maximum HP (Yamaha outboards)115 hp
Draft7"
Deadrise8°

Review:
When I first contacted Scout Boats and told them I wanted a flats boat in Wyoming, they thought I was nuts. After the laughter I explained that I was to use the boat on the flats of Wyoming reservoirs to chase Carp. The laughter stopped and I bought a boat. Anyway, I’m not the first to chase carp, but I am the first to have a flats boat in Wyoming.
I grew up around boats and have somewhat a knowledge base to help in my evaluation. They say the two happiest days of a boat owner’s life are the day he buys it and the day he sells it. Needless to say, I won’t be selling my Scout Costa 170. Basically, I love the boat almost as much as I love my wife. Stu and the Scout boat team put a lot of thought into this boat. From the optional front casting platform to the rod racks, every part of this boat was designed to perform. My only complaint is there are no drink holders.

If you have any questions on this boat please do not hesitate to call me at the Platte River Fly Shop 307-237-5997.

Rod Storage Bait Well Platform Console

Stu and Mark on board the 170 Stu with nice Carp on the Fly
Scout 170 COSTA
Construction-Quality Scout boats have had composite stringers and transoms. An additional innovation unique to Scout is the Air-Assist hull. Steve designed this unique feature specifically to combat the problem of static stability, common on small boats4.9
PerformanceWith trim tabs this boat can run easily in rough choppy water.4.9
Functional DesignAn ultra quiet flats boat that only draws 7 inches. Optional front casting deck is a must.4.9
Price With all the available options, this is a high end boat. But like the saying goes, “you get what you pay for”4.7
Application I love this boat! It can be used for anything from lakes to back country fishing.4.9
Score:1-5(5=highest)Total Score4.86

PlusMinus
PerformanceNo Cup Holders
Quality
Warranty

Conclusion:

The Scout Costa 170 is an awesome stealthy back country flats boat that can be used for all types of game species including freshwater fish like carp, bass, smallmouth, and pike.


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