Hi was looking on ebay at bait boats does anyone own one of them very cheap boats some are only around £130 might be ok for my first boat what fo you guys think
In reply to Post #1
Bit more than £130 but the future actor bait boat is £179.99 and is getting some good reviews
Bit more than £130 but the future actor bait boat is £179.99 and is getting some good reviews
In reply to Post #1
Considered the same myself Andy, pretty much all of the advice was get a second hand known/ reliable one. Ended up with very good Viper for £230.
Considered the same myself Andy, pretty much all of the advice was get a second hand known/ reliable one. Ended up with very good Viper for £230.
In reply to Post #2
Yeah I keep seeing that 1 advertised surly the cheap ones would work ok maybe after xmas I might have to take a gamble
Yeah I keep seeing that 1 advertised surly the cheap ones would work ok maybe after xmas I might have to take a gamble
In reply to Post #3
That's a good price 230 just be my luck to buy a knackered 1
That's a good price 230 just be my luck to buy a knackered 1
I have watched a couple of the actor boats in operation.. they did what was asked. Weather they will still be doing it this time next year is anyone's guess
In reply to Post #1
Bang for buck the Actor bait boat at £180 (plus £6 postage) seems to do what a bait boat is designed to do. A simple no thrills boat.
I've just invested in a £80 bait boat from Amazon after seeing a fellow angler use one. Search for "WWSHIP Intelligent Fishing Bait Boat, 500M Remote Fish Finder Ship Large Capacity Loading RC Boat Speedboat Dual Motor" - the price has gone up (likely on account of Amazon's analytics) so probably selling quite well.
Bang for buck the Actor bait boat at £180 (plus £6 postage) seems to do what a bait boat is designed to do. A simple no thrills boat.
I've just invested in a £80 bait boat from Amazon after seeing a fellow angler use one. Search for "WWSHIP Intelligent Fishing Bait Boat, 500M Remote Fish Finder Ship Large Capacity Loading RC Boat Speedboat Dual Motor" - the price has gone up (likely on account of Amazon's analytics) so probably selling quite well.
In reply to Post #7
Cheers randy will have a look
Cheers randy will have a look
In reply to Post #7
It looks very similar to the one I've seen on a lake. The bait dropper threw the bait and rig nearly a foot. Was amusing to watch
It looks very similar to the one I've seen on a lake. The bait dropper threw the bait and rig nearly a foot. Was amusing to watch
In reply to Post #1
Future Carping Actor Bait Boat - for £180 notes you can't really go wrong and reviews are pretty good . . .2x hoppers, decent battery, single handed joy stick controller and Deeper compatibility . . .
Seriously considering getting rid of my original (and bullet proof reliable) Lake Reaper as I can't currently use it with my Deeper Chirp without an expensive handset and innards upgrade . . .
Future Carping Actor Bait Boat - for £180 notes you can't really go wrong and reviews are pretty good . . .2x hoppers, decent battery, single handed joy stick controller and Deeper compatibility . . .
Seriously considering getting rid of my original (and bullet proof reliable) Lake Reaper as I can't currently use it with my Deeper Chirp without an expensive handset and innards upgrade . . .
In reply to Post #10
Have looked at these in depth after being advised about them on here.According to some people that have them , they are way too light to be used if the water is choppy ? The bait release is,nt that good and its difficult to keep on course , I think i will go for the lake reaper.
Have looked at these in depth after being advised about them on here.According to some people that have them , they are way too light to be used if the water is choppy ? The bait release is,nt that good and its difficult to keep on course , I think i will go for the lake reaper.
In reply to Post #11
Used a lake reaper a few times and although a great little budget boat it is not very stable in choppy water either
Used a lake reaper a few times and although a great little budget boat it is not very stable in choppy water either
In reply to Post #12
Bugger !
Bugger !
Big Lake Baitboat might be an option if you plan on using it on a larger water.
In reply to Post #11
Bivvie Wrecker is correct - Reaper is none too stable in chop . . .if you use heavy leads and longish hooklengths (I use 5-6oz) then when this is positioned on one side of the hopper it can make the boat wobble on the way out. . .if you have a fishfinder fitted the battery pack can also slide about inside and mess with the boats balance making it even worse . . .
I always use a tackle box X2 row runner and put the rod in the rest as with the reaper you need to use both thumbs to drive it on the handset . . .another reason why the Actor is poss better?
Bivvie Wrecker is correct - Reaper is none too stable in chop . . .if you use heavy leads and longish hooklengths (I use 5-6oz) then when this is positioned on one side of the hopper it can make the boat wobble on the way out. . .if you have a fishfinder fitted the battery pack can also slide about inside and mess with the boats balance making it even worse . . .
I always use a tackle box X2 row runner and put the rod in the rest as with the reaper you need to use both thumbs to drive it on the handset . . .another reason why the Actor is poss better?
Keep your eye out in the classified section, about this time last year i got a viper for £100 notes, with 4 spare batteries, a fish finder thingy and a bait boat bag....bloody bargain....I didn't even want a bait boat just took a punt for 100 quids..... chap who sold it was spot on aswell...
A guy I fished with had a boat that was so heavy I could hardly lift it, don't know what make it was , am I right in thinking that it would be more stable and easier to control in rough conditions.
In reply to Post #10
I'm looking for a boat just to use with the Chirp. Have you found a solution that works for you? I too been looking at the cheap ones on eBay but unsure whether they would take a Deeper and it's stability. Just need a boat that will take a deeper bracket so I can map out lakes typography rather than smashing up swims each time.
I'm looking for a boat just to use with the Chirp. Have you found a solution that works for you? I too been looking at the cheap ones on eBay but unsure whether they would take a Deeper and it's stability. Just need a boat that will take a deeper bracket so I can map out lakes typography rather than smashing up swims each time.
In reply to Post #18
The problem you will have isn't if they will take it but if it will interfere with the Deeper's signal, if the handset uses 2.4ghz it won't work right you need a better one like 5.8ghz I believe I might be wrong with the exact signal but definitely 2.4ghz will interfere badly, my friend has a lake reaper that and it uses the 2.4 mentioned and it constantly interferes but if I use my wave runner that runs on 5.8 it works fine
The problem you will have isn't if they will take it but if it will interfere with the Deeper's signal, if the handset uses 2.4ghz it won't work right you need a better one like 5.8ghz I believe I might be wrong with the exact signal but definitely 2.4ghz will interfere badly, my friend has a lake reaper that and it uses the 2.4 mentioned and it constantly interferes but if I use my wave runner that runs on 5.8 it works fine
In reply to Post #19
Yes, great point! Interference. The Deepers are great but if you add them into certain situations you can lose WiFi and GPS connections very easy. Two different things. Both have their challenges from what I've experienced so far. Get it right and the sonars are a great bit of kit.
Yes, great point! Interference. The Deepers are great but if you add them into certain situations you can lose WiFi and GPS connections very easy. Two different things. Both have their challenges from what I've experienced so far. Get it right and the sonars are a great bit of kit.
An interesting point I can't help commenting on.
So in general the thread opinion (and previous threads) is that there is a market for cheap boats, but the advice is get a used known brand as it's a better option.
I have had a career in electronics (and associated disciplines) and occasionally I have bought and repaired boats for my own use or to sell on to finance other tackle purchases, syndicate fees or foreign trips.
The most common replies I've had when selling what was an expensive boat in its day off cheaply later in its life.
“So it's a Microcat is it?”
“Yes, fully serviced, new parts ( pumps etc) fully tested and functional. Bargain at £xxx”
What model is it?”
“Mk 1”
“What! That's the one where I have to hold it for 3 seconds to prime the pumps?”
“Yes, dead easy”
“Nah mate, not interested” seen a Jabo for the same price.
So in general the thread opinion (and previous threads) is that there is a market for cheap boats, but the advice is get a used known brand as it's a better option.
I have had a career in electronics (and associated disciplines) and occasionally I have bought and repaired boats for my own use or to sell on to finance other tackle purchases, syndicate fees or foreign trips.
The most common replies I've had when selling what was an expensive boat in its day off cheaply later in its life.
“So it's a Microcat is it?”
“Yes, fully serviced, new parts ( pumps etc) fully tested and functional. Bargain at £xxx”
What model is it?”
“Mk 1”
“What! That's the one where I have to hold it for 3 seconds to prime the pumps?”
“Yes, dead easy”
“Nah mate, not interested” seen a Jabo for the same price.
In reply to Post #21
Tbh, I don't see myself using it that much which is why I'm looking at a cheap boat that can, on occasion, do a circuit of a new swim and map the lake bed. I think I might have found a Lake Reaper, but a model that has a modified radio so that it doesn't interfere with the sonar. The problem if anyone attempts to buy one 2nd hand is unless the seller knows the tech spec the buyer might be purchasing an incompatible model to work with the sonar. Best option imo is to go new and ensure you know what you're getting.
Tbh, I don't see myself using it that much which is why I'm looking at a cheap boat that can, on occasion, do a circuit of a new swim and map the lake bed. I think I might have found a Lake Reaper, but a model that has a modified radio so that it doesn't interfere with the sonar. The problem if anyone attempts to buy one 2nd hand is unless the seller knows the tech spec the buyer might be purchasing an incompatible model to work with the sonar. Best option imo is to go new and ensure you know what you're getting.
In reply to Post #22
Actor bait boat works with Deeper . . .lots of stuff on bracket fixing on their FB page - would seem to be the cheapest way of quickly mapping without the upcost of a Deeper compatible Reaper.
Best / Quickest / Cheapest Deeper solution I've seen for the Actor is to tie the Deeper with braid to the lifting handle and place in the central hopper with the hopper doors open . . .this way the Deeper is 'semi-enclosed' but secure in the central hopper well and can bob about / undulate as you drive the boat / map out the lake etc . . .placing arms on the back etc seems overkill and will probably mess with steering and stability . . .
Actor bait boat works with Deeper . . .lots of stuff on bracket fixing on their FB page - would seem to be the cheapest way of quickly mapping without the upcost of a Deeper compatible Reaper.
Best / Quickest / Cheapest Deeper solution I've seen for the Actor is to tie the Deeper with braid to the lifting handle and place in the central hopper with the hopper doors open . . .this way the Deeper is 'semi-enclosed' but secure in the central hopper well and can bob about / undulate as you drive the boat / map out the lake etc . . .placing arms on the back etc seems overkill and will probably mess with steering and stability . . .
Hi,
A bit late in the day probably but just wanted to say to those looking at purchasing a bait boat, please don't be a victim to 'Tackle Tax'. You can easily get a bait boat for under £200 that will do exactly the same job of a £800 one.
A bit late in the day probably but just wanted to say to those looking at purchasing a bait boat, please don't be a victim to 'Tackle Tax'. You can easily get a bait boat for under £200 that will do exactly the same job of a £800 one.
In reply to Post #24
I agree, just got a boatman which is pretty much same as the actor and works well enough. Could buy about 5 for same price as some. So if it breaks after a year it's not the end of the world
I agree, just got a boatman which is pretty much same as the actor and works well enough. Could buy about 5 for same price as some. So if it breaks after a year it's not the end of the world
In reply to Post #1
RT4 or buy a ***tter every other season.
RT4 or buy a ***tter every other season.
In reply to Post #26
I have a boatman actor bait boat and it's great, does exactly what a bait boat should, it's simple, easy to use and for the money you can't go wrong 👍🏽 Some guy said to me last time I used it “god that must have cost a fortune” when I told him the price he couldn't believe it!
I have a boatman actor bait boat and it's great, does exactly what a bait boat should, it's simple, easy to use and for the money you can't go wrong 👍🏽 Some guy said to me last time I used it “god that must have cost a fortune” when I told him the price he couldn't believe it!
In reply to Post #27
Thats good not come across those before.
Thats good not come across those before.
In reply to Post #27
Could someone tell me who imports the actor. I am getting confused with large increase in price . But also no stock available
Could someone tell me who imports the actor. I am getting confused with large increase in price . But also no stock available
In reply to Post #30
Boatman UK are the authorised importer and seller.
They are part of the Chinese manufacturing company.
The price increase is due to the varying specifications and newer models in the Actor range.
The Basic Mk 4 with 5ah battery and plain black plastic finish was £180 in early 2021 and can still be pre ordered for August delivery @ £199. When it is in stock no doubt the price will increase for non pre ordered units if any are still available.
The latest Mk 4i Basic model has a screwed together hull (earlier Mk4 model is glued) and also an added external on/off switch and is a choice of carbon or camo finish @ £244 for 5Ah battery.
10 Ah models are more expensive due to battery price.
Just go to their home page..it's fairly easy to work out pricing and specs.
https://boatmanuk.com/product-category/boats/actor/
Boatman UK are the authorised importer and seller.
They are part of the Chinese manufacturing company.
The price increase is due to the varying specifications and newer models in the Actor range.
The Basic Mk 4 with 5ah battery and plain black plastic finish was £180 in early 2021 and can still be pre ordered for August delivery @ £199. When it is in stock no doubt the price will increase for non pre ordered units if any are still available.
The latest Mk 4i Basic model has a screwed together hull (earlier Mk4 model is glued) and also an added external on/off switch and is a choice of carbon or camo finish @ £244 for 5Ah battery.
10 Ah models are more expensive due to battery price.
Just go to their home page..it's fairly easy to work out pricing and specs.
https://boatmanuk.com/product-category/boats/actor/
In reply to Post #31
Cheers bud. It's a minefield. Non in stock but as far as I can make out these don't come with GPS at that price?
In fact I can't find any of the actors on eBay with GPS to check what price it will be.
I have found 2 alternatives
Not sure how good they are though.
I really can't wait till the end of August to get one either.
Has anyone got either of these?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/500M-RC-Fishing-Bait-Boat-Carp-Hook-Post-Boat-Bottom-Hopper-LCD-GPS-Fishfinders-/373647209474?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286&mkrid=710-127635-2958-0
Or these
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/VERY100-500M-Fishing-Bait-Boat-Wireless-RC-Toy-Boat-Carp-Boat-LCD-GPS-Fishfinder-/154370172599?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286&mkrid=710-127635-2958-0
Cheers bud. It's a minefield. Non in stock but as far as I can make out these don't come with GPS at that price?
In fact I can't find any of the actors on eBay with GPS to check what price it will be.
I have found 2 alternatives
Not sure how good they are though.
I really can't wait till the end of August to get one either.
Has anyone got either of these?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/500M-RC-Fishing-Bait-Boat-Carp-Hook-Post-Boat-Bottom-Hopper-LCD-GPS-Fishfinders-/373647209474?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286&mkrid=710-127635-2958-0
Or these
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/VERY100-500M-Fishing-Bait-Boat-Wireless-RC-Toy-Boat-Carp-Boat-LCD-GPS-Fishfinder-/154370172599?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286&mkrid=710-127635-2958-0
In reply to Post #1
I had a brand new lake reaper and hated it. Had for a few weeks and sold it, to buy an ND2, but stock took ages so bought an RT4 V4. And whilst I still wait for it to be delivered I used my pals lake reaper at the weekend. Totally different experience to my old lake reaper. Worked like a dream. Couldn't believe the difference.
The only thing I can put it down to is I had a Deeper Chirp on mine and it must have been interfering with the radio signal even tho I had the upgraded handset that was supposed to be; and sold as; compatible with the Deeper.
It's a little bit more than £130 but might be worth considering above the Actor at circa £200.
I had a brand new lake reaper and hated it. Had for a few weeks and sold it, to buy an ND2, but stock took ages so bought an RT4 V4. And whilst I still wait for it to be delivered I used my pals lake reaper at the weekend. Totally different experience to my old lake reaper. Worked like a dream. Couldn't believe the difference.
The only thing I can put it down to is I had a Deeper Chirp on mine and it must have been interfering with the radio signal even tho I had the upgraded handset that was supposed to be; and sold as; compatible with the Deeper.
It's a little bit more than £130 but might be worth considering above the Actor at circa £200.
In reply to Post #33
How much is a reaper and does it have have GPS?
How much is a reaper and does it have have GPS?
In reply to Post #31
Just had a reply from Boatman. GPS boats start at 399. More than I want to pay for occasional use to be honest.
Hopefully I can find users of the two I linked to on eBay to see how they are getting on with theirs.
Just had a reply from Boatman. GPS boats start at 399. More than I want to pay for occasional use to be honest.
Hopefully I can find users of the two I linked to on eBay to see how they are getting on with theirs.
In reply to Post #25
I thought a boatman was an Actor?
I thought a boatman was an Actor?
Hi! There are a lot of people who understand boats, so I want to ask here. Tell me which boat should a beginner look for for fishing? Recently I went to Norway and a colleague who hosted us organized a great fishing trip for us. When I returned to the USA, I realized that I wanted to fish here. But I do not know where to start. Previously, I only rented boats from boat rentals miami and rested on weekends with my wife and children. But it was more of a beach holiday. I'm sure something else is needed for fishing. I will be glad of any advice.
In reply to Post #37
If your looking for something for small to medium waters take a look at the boatman actor, as previously mentioned in this thread, it gets very good feedback.
If your looking for something for small to medium waters take a look at the boatman actor, as previously mentioned in this thread, it gets very good feedback.
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