Princecraft Platinum SE 186

Fully revamped for 2020, Princecraft’s popular Platinum SE line of fishing boats features three models: Platinum SE 227, Platinum SE 207 and Platinum SE 186. The baby of the family, the Platinum SE 186 I predict will be the most popular with consumers based on size, trailer-ability and an attractive price-point for a premium product.

As you might expect based on the model name, the smallest of the SE line comes in at 18’ 6” and even in that wonderfully perfect garage-able size, it’s packed full of fishing features and luxury finishes. Let’s start with the understanding that this is a big water boat for going after big fish! Deep and confidence inspiring with a 25” transom and a 17 degree deadrise, the maximum depth comes it at 46” – so you’ll feel like you are sitting inside the boat not sitting on it. The SE 186 also doubles nicely as a family-friendly runabout for water skiing or tubing. But it’s designed for fishing.

The SE 186 hull features double H-36 aluminum alloy plating from bow to mid-ship, and at the chines, all riveted together for long-lasting waterproof seam, and it’s finished in an automotive qualify urethane paint with 3D Princecraft decals. Beginning up the bow, the raised casting deck features compartments for trolling motor batteries, an ice cooler and a 30” 17 gallon aerated livewell, as well as optional seat cushions.  The PrinceTrak system is built into the gunnel all the way around the boat so adding additional fishing accessories is easy. The bow deck features a generously-sized tackle storage compartment under the platform, while the aluminum deck supports your choice of a Minn Kota trolling motor. 

There is lockable storage for up to six rods under the floor in the companion way between the newly designed walk-thru windshield, complete with the ACS system, an air intake allowing airflow into the in-floor rod organizer compartment. The helm features a three-spoke steering wheel, rocker switches, a SIMRAD Go7 multifunction touch screen with VesselView Link allowing for instrumentation display, GPS functions, as well as sonar and downscan imaging, plus space for the optional Simrad NSS EVO3 screen – and my favourite, an electric heated helm seat with no-pinch hinges!

Two additional seats fit into five seat bases positioned through the floor and casting decks to suit your fishing needs. The rear casting platform features a unique pop-up changeroom underneath the port-side folding jump seat (go for the optional head to also fit into this same space), a Princecraft ProFlo Plus 34” 17 gallon aerated livewell, a starboard flip up jump seat, and a multifunction unit with tool support, LED light, two cupholders and a 12V power outlet. Behind the deep stern splashwell, you’ll find a stainless-steel four-step telescopic reboarding ladder and anti-skid decking, and either a Mercury 150hp Four Stroke, or a 150hp or 175hp Pro XS outboard. Both options afford plenty of power to get up and go quickly to the next fishing hole, or pull up a water-skier or a couple of your kids on the tow tube behind.

Princecraft is the only manufacturer to offer an all-vinyl flooring option on both the cockpit and bow and aft casting platforms for both easy cleanup and great wet-weather traction. Carpet is an available option.

The Platinum 186 SE comes on a black painted single axle bunk trailer with swing-away tongue and one of the very best limited warranty in the industry.

If you love to fish, and need a boat designed for just that out on the big water, the Platinum 186 SE would be one I’d put on my “must-test” list for next spring as soon as the ice goes out.

Specifications:

LOA: 5.6 m / 18’-6”
Beam: 2.4 m / 95”
Chine Width: 2.0 m / 80”
Maximum Depth: 1.2 m / 46”
Approximate Draft: 0.8 m / 33”
Transom Height: 0.6 m / 25”
Weight: 748 kg / 1651 lb
Deadrise: 17 degrees
Fuel: 140L / 37 gals
MSRP: from $62,650

For more information:  www.princecraft.com