Can The LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER Be Your Ideal Fishing Partner?

LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER Review

• Reference price: from $21,385
• Type: Jon boat
• Weight: 650 lbs
• Capacity: 6 persons

What we like about it: It has comprehensive features for avid anglers who go fishing outdoors.

What we don’t like about it: The fishing rod rack has a small capacity, supporting a maximum of three fishing rods.

Rating (4.7/5)

LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER has gained popularity among many people for its excellent equipment as a jon boat primarily designed for hunting and fishing. The forward inflatable livewell design keeps the bait and fish fresh and healthy for anglers. Additionally, the seats on the deck next to the console provide deck padding, ensuring a certain level of comfort for passengers.

Next, we will provide a detailed description of the driving experience, riding experience, specifications, features, and more aspects of the LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER.

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Driving Experience

As an avid fishing enthusiast, I joined the local fishing association in my area. Recently, the association planned an outdoor fishing event, and I enthusiastically responded to the call. Since it is currently summer, the temperature at noon is becoming increasingly hot. Especially on the unshaded lake surface, the water temperature rises, and fish tend to prefer cooler deep waters. Fishing under such conditions is not ideal. Based on this situation, we chose to go out in the cooler morning.

The day we agreed upon quickly arrived. Even though it was still early morning, I eagerly got up for fishing. The sky was just beginning to brighten, and the sun had not yet risen. This is the perfect time for fishing. Carefully, my group of five or six people lowered the jon boat rented by the association into the water. Thanks to my experience in boat driving, I was in charge of piloting this trip.

Activation Effect

Thanks to the considerate deck padding design, I sat on the deck next to the console on the right side of the boat and felt no discomfort. The comfort of the ride was quite good. Next, I started the engine, and the boat began to move slowly. With the turn of the steering wheel, the boat responded to my control with great agility.

Additionally, like other jon boats, this boat has a small angle of inclination, only 3.5°. This small angle is advantageous for the calm waters we are in today, although it may lack performance in handling rough waves. Nevertheless, its stability is effectively guaranteed.

To make the most of the prime fishing time in the morning, I increased the speed and quickly brought the boat to the predetermined location.

Fishing Experience

After reaching the fishing spot, I took out my fishing rod from the rod rack on the left side of the boat and walked to the bow of the deck to prepare for casting. I put fresh bait on the hook, believing that the fish would love it. “Come on!” I muttered while casting the fishing line. Although my movements were not subtle, the flat bottom of the jon boat ensured its stability without excessive rocking.

Fishing is an activity that requires patience. I sat on the fishing chair at the bow, holding the fishing rod and watching the status of the bobber. The calm water surface had only ripples caused by a gentle breeze, and the fresh morning air made me feel at ease. Soon, I noticed a change in the bobber’s position. I immediately pulled the fishing rod with force, and indeed, there was a fish on the hook! My friend Sam quickly came over to help me remove the fish from the hook and put it in the inflatable livewell at the bow. This is also one of my favorite features of this boat—the design of the forward aerated livewell effectively ensures the freshness of the catch.

Specification

LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER has many advantages as a jon boat.

The console located on the right side of the boat is convenient for controlling the direction with the steering wheel, making it easy to drive. On the other hand, the console on one side is not ideal for weight distribution on the boat. Apart from that, the design of deck padding provides additional comfort to the seats.

In terms of fishing functionality, LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER is well-equipped. The rod storage area on the inside of the gunwale securely holds the rods in place. In terms of bait and fish storage, the boat has made thoughtful considerations. The 19-gallon forward inflatable livewell at the bow ensures their freshness. If you need to travel to distant waters for fishing, sufficient fuel reserves are necessary. The boat’s 12-gallon portable fuel tank allows for convenient replacement when running low on fuel. Additionally, the 1860 RAMBLER supports the selection of some accessories. If you prefer fishing and want protection from direct sunlight, a Bimini top might be a good option.

Other Versions

LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER is an upgraded version of the series, with more additional features and improved facilities. If you don’t have high requirements for a jon boat, you can consider the basic version, LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860.

LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860

LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860, like LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER, is a jon boat. However, the former has a simpler configuration.

Firstly, the boat does not have a console in the cockpit, and the boat’s direction is controlled by an outboard motor at the stern. The motor is connected to a handle or tiller, allowing manual propulsion to maneuver the boat. This console-less boat can increase storage space inside the cockpit to accommodate fishing gear for anglers with abundant equipment.

Secondly, the LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 lacks some of the considerate features found on the ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER. The deck of the latter is fitted with padding, taking into account the comfort of anglers. Additionally, the ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER has added a live well at the bow to ensure the freshness of the catch, while the ROUGHNECK 1860 requires a separate container for storage.

Finally, thanks to its more streamlined design, the cost of this boat is lower, with a starting price of $15,851. Compared to the cost of the other boat, which exceeds $21,385, the ROUGHNECK 1860 has a price advantage. It is a good choice for those with limited budgets who seek higher cost-effectiveness.

What we like about it

• Fishing rods can be securely and easily held in the rod rack, without worrying about damage.
• The presence of a console makes it convenient to control the boat’s movement, with easy operation.
• Passengers sitting on the deck’s seat cushions feel more comfortable.
• The inflatable live well at the bow ensures the freshness of bait and caught fish.
• The boat provides a stable and satisfying experience while navigating.

What we don’t like about it

• Due to the size limitations of a jon boat, the internal storage space is not very large and cannot accommodate many people.
• The fishing rod rack can hold a maximum of only three rods, which may not adequately protect each rod when multiple rods are used.

FAQ

• Are jon boats good in rough water?

Generally, jon boats are not well-suited for navigating rough waters. Their small angle of inclination provides advantages in calm, shallow water areas. However, this design can make the boat less stable in waters with complex hydrological conditions.

• Can a trolling motor push a jon boat?

Certainly, some boat configurations support the addition of a trolling motor. This electric-powered trolling motor can accurately maneuver the boat to designated locations with low noise, preventing the noise from scaring away fish.

• How much weight can a jon boat hold?

The maximum weight capacity and passenger capacity can vary depending on the specific boat configuration. For LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER, the maximum weight capacity is 1,600 pounds, accommodating up to 6 passengers.

LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER SPEC

Standard

Beam	85″
Chine Width	60″
Hull Gauge	.100″
Side Depth	24″
Transom Height	20″
Overall Boat Length	18′
Max HP Capacity	75 HP
Max Weight Capacity	1,600 lb
Boat Weight	650 lb
Max Person Weight	846 lb
Beam	85″
Chine Width	60″

Optional

Mercury® FourStroke

Mercury 60 HP ELPT FourStroke

Mercury Jet 40 ELPT FourStroke

Video

Comparison Table

Boats	Deck	Maximum horsepowerLimits	Maximum capacity limit
Tracker GRIZZLY® 1754 JON	Overall length 17′ 1”	50 HP	6 persons
PRINCECRAFT 2022 PRX 1760	Overall length 16’10”	50 HP	persons
Crestliner 1860 Retriever CC	Overall length 18′	90 HP	7 persons

Tracker GRIZZLY® 1754 JON VS LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER

Compared to the LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER, the Tracker GRIZZLY® 1754 JON has a simpler configuration. On one hand, it can meet basic fishing needs and has a starting price of only $5,995. On the other hand, its streamlined design allows for customization according to individual preferences and interests.

The Tracker GRIZZLY® 1754 JON also has some user-friendly details. The handles on the gunwales assist in launching and landing the boat, making it easier to transport. In terms of deck design, it is not only wrapped with a layer of foam for enhanced comfort, but also features several drain holes on the deck to prevent water from accidentally splashing into the cockpit.

Of course, there are certain differences in the hull design between the two boats. The Tracker boat has a larger deadrise. It has a 7° angle, compared to the 3.5° angle of the other boat, which gives the Tracker better wave-cutting ability. However, correspondingly, its stability in calm water may be somewhat affected.

Both boats are excellent choices for outdoor hunting and fishing. You can make the appropriate choice based on your needs and budget.

PRINCECRAFT 2022 PRX 1760 VS LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER

The PRINCECRAFT 2022 PRX 1760 boat features a minimalist design with few additional features. For example, compared to the comprehensive design of features like a live well and console in the LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER, PRINCECRAFT has completely omitted these additional functions.

On one hand, this may have an impact on the overall fishing experience. On the other hand, it provides anglers with more flexibility to customize the boat according to their preferences and needs.

Of course, due to the smaller size of PRINCECRAFT boats, measuring just over 16 feet, they are more convenient to transport. However, this also results in a reduction in the number of people it can accommodate and the weight it can carry.

Crestliner 1860 Retriever CC VS LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER

While the LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER is considered a well-equipped jon boat, it falls slightly behind the Crestliner 1860 Retriever CC in comparison.

In terms of console setup, Crestliner’s center console arrangement provides better balance and weight distribution for the boat. Additionally, the inclusion of three gauges and various instruments helps the captain have a better understanding of the boat’s performance.

Furthermore, Crestliner offers ample space for rod placement, with rod racks on the left gunwale and a console that can accommodate up to nine fishing rods. This is a significant improvement compared to the storage space for three fishing rods in the other boat.

Lastly, in terms of engine arrangement, Crestliner can handle engines with a maximum horsepower of up to 90HP. While not as powerful as a pontoon boat, this horsepower is considered high within the jon boat category. Sufficient horsepower ensures the boat can achieve higher speeds when needed.

Of course, both of these boats fall into the category of more luxurious jon boats. This results in their prices being above $20,000, making them less affordable for everyone.

Summary

If you or your family and friends are fishing enthusiasts, jon boats do offer good value for money. The LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER mentioned today is indeed a solid choice. It is well-equipped with functional features and designed to enhance fishing activities.

If you have a limited budget, you can consider more affordable alternatives such as the Sailor’s Master and Drift Hoper. These boats offer similar functionality to the LOWE ROUGHNECK 1860 RAMBLER but at a more advantageous price and higher cost-effectiveness. If you have other specific requirements for a boat, please contact us.